Issues Poll

Jackson Jambalaya reports on its online poll of important issues in the Third District campaign with good comments following.

Ross Campaign Email

Charlie Ross Campaign E-mail: (We can stand pandering on a lot of issues from values to immigration, but pandering on football! Eye roll. Maybe he has always been a Bulldog fan and if so I am sure there will be comments arguing it, in which case I retract my pander thoughts.)

Sharon and I hope that your family had an enjoyable Christmas. The holidays are always a wonderful time to enjoy the blessings of family and friends. I have particularly enjoyed having my three sons, Andy, David, and Steven, at home.

We're incredibly excited about the Liberty Bowl this weekend. This year's team has done an excellent job. On the strength of their 7-5 season, the Bulldogs are in Memphis preparing to beat Central Florida in the Liberty Bowl. Congratulations, Bulldogs! Coach Croom's hard work has not gone unnoticed. His outstanding leadership caused him to be recently named both the Associated Press Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year and The Clarion-Ledger's Mississippi Sportsman of the Year. We certainly expect many more great things out of him and his program in the years to come.

Once the holidays are over, look for the campaign to start moving quickly. We've worked hard over the past few months to build a strong organization, and hope that you can become involved with the campaign. The New Year is fast approaching. I hope that 2008 brings great things for you and yours.

Happy New Year,
Charlie Ross

PS: If you would prefer not to be contacted by email, please use the "Safe Unsubscribe" link below.

Campaign Headquarters
1900 Dunbarton Drive, Suite I
Jackson, Mississippi 39216
(601) 362-ROSS (7677)
contact@charlieross.com
http://www.charlieross.com/

James Broadwater

The Meridian Star reports "Yet another Republican has announced that he will be running for the 3rd Congressional District nomination, vying for the seat that will soon be vacated by Chip Pickering. This week's new candidate is James Broadwater, a former Southern Baptist minister, of Flowood. Broadwater said in a press release Wednesday that he wants to 'end all abortion in America' and 'stop the flow of illegal immigrants into our country, and punish the business owners who hire them.' He also made statements against gay marriage and for a 'strong and ready military' that is 'free from the social experimentation of liberals.'"

James Broadwater is a perennial candidate but has something in common with Chip Pickering that none of the other candidates can claim: both have been in a Borat production.

Pickering in the Borat movie at the Pentecostal campground

Broadwater and Borat campaigning in Belhaven (very funny, must watch)

Senator Charlie Ross

AP - Miss. losing some of its most vocal senators - "Sen. Charlie Ross, R-Brandon, could always be counted on to defend the conservative line on issues from gun ownership to abortion. The Harvard-educated lawyer had to choose this year between seeking another term in the Senate and running for the open job of lieutenant governor. He opted to try for the higher office, and he lost in the Republican primary to fellow Rankin Countian Phil Bryant. Now, Ross is running for Congress. Bryant, the current state auditor, defeated Democratic Rep. Jamie Franks in the general election and will take over when Republican Amy Tuck finishes her second term as lieutenant governor in early January. Ross' replacement in his Madison and Rankin county district is Lee Yancey, a Christian conservative Republican whose teenage suburban supporters got attention on YouTube with a homemade rap video: 'He's so cool but he ain't too fancy. Put in your vote for Lee Yancey. Uh. Yeah.'"

Landrum No Insider

McComb Enterprise Journal - Landrum says he's no D.C. insider - "Landrum, a Republican has said he’ll be 'rolling out' his legislative agenda over the next three months and talking about which committees in Congress he’s interested in serving on, but he is waiting for the proper moment. Having held no political office before, Landrum said he anticipates some criticism over inexperience, but hopes his background will be a strength rather than a weakness. In other words, he said, being a Beltway insider isn’t everything. 'There’s a mindset, I feel, in political circles, that if you haven’t been involved in politics you don’t deserve to serve,' Landrum explained. Landrum said his ventures have allowed him to feel out a variety of civic and business leadership roles. He’s served in the U.S. Army, helped Georgia-based financial company Primerica spread, worked on residential development for Madison County, served on the Mississippi College Board and participated in Mission Mississippi, a racial reconciliation group. Of course, his target for cuts is pork-barrel spending, which he admits can make voting on bills complicated when unrelated items are attached.'That’s where if you had a line-item veto, that would be very good,' he said. 'I’m not gonna pile on the pork, I can promise you that.' He touts his upbringing in the hayfields of Jones County as the origin of his work ethic and his says his values suggest he can hit the ground running."

Rounsaville Campaign Email

Dear Friends,

Here at the campaign, we’re wrapping up the final week of politicking before Christmas. We have had a busy and exciting week, with events and fundraisers throughout the district. The last five weeks have come and gone quickly, and once we get into the New Year, the election will be right around the corner.

Usually in this weekly email, I talk about the issues that voters discuss with me on our travels. There are many important issues to talk about, and we’ll get back to them come January. Christmas is always a special time of year. It offers us an opportunity to spend time with our friends and family and reflect on the blessings we have. It’s also a time to give special consideration to those who sacrifice and do so much for all of us.

Today, I’d like to take a step back from politics to keep in mind the brave military men and women who are serving our nation and their families here at home. They are our new generation of heroes who have volunteered to defend freedom in far away places just like the generations that preceded them. We thank them for their service, we honor them for their commitment, and we pray for their safe return.

I’d like to bring to your attention a program called America Supports You, run by the U.S. Military, that connects citizens with opportunities to help the troops. By visiting their website, America Supports You, you can learn how to give back to those serving us.

We should also recognize those who serve others in charitable and good will organizations. Thousands of Mississippians volunteer each year for charities that help the neediest among us. Through their service, they remind us that we are a great country, because at heart, we are a good and decent people.

Laura and I wish you and yours the best this Christmas season, and we hope to see you soon.

Yours truly,

John Rounsaville

John Rounsaville for Congress
P.O. Box 2473
Jackson, MS 39207

Ross Campaign Email

Fellow Mississippians,

Tuesday night, Senator Trent Lott resigned his position in the United States Senate. His decision will have a significant impact on politics here in Mississippi. Coupled with Chip Pickering's announcement that he would not seek re-election and the Presidential campaigns, 2008 will be an incredibly important year in Mississippi Politics.

These times require a leader with a proven record. The battle is intense over issues like strength of military, illegal immigration, protecting the unborn, Second Amendment Rights, and the economy. In the tort reform fight, I took on the trial lawyers and the Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives, and we won. I have the experience and the ability to go toe-to-toe with the likes of Representative Nancy Pelosi and Senators Hillary Clinton, John Kerry, and Ted Kennedy. I will continue to fight for our conservative principles and will bring experienced leadership to Washington, D.C. to get results for Mississippi's Third Congressional District.

Come the first of the year, the Charlie Ross for Congress Campaign will be in full swing. With our district covering such a large area, I will be traveling regularly to meet and discuss issues with people from different parts of the State. It is my goal to represent the needs of every part of the district in Congress.

Events are being organized throughout the state. I would value the opportunity to meet with you and to learn about your individual concerns.

Sharon and I recently had the pleasure of attending the Madison County Republican Women's Christmas Tea. During the event, new officers were installed. Congratulations to Madison County Tax Assessor, Kay Pace, who is now serving as the group's President. Local organizations such as the Madison County Republican Women are the backbone of our party, making it possible to help spread our conservative message to our neighbors, friends and family.

We need your help as the campaign moves forward. Whether it's making phone calls, putting up signs, volunteering at the campaign office, or making a financial contribution, we hope you will get involved. You can get started through our website at http://charlieross.com/involved or by calling (601) 362-7677.

Sincerely,

Charlie Ross

PS: If you would prefer not to be contacted by email, please use the "Safe Unsubscribe" link below.

Campaign Headquarters
900 Dunbarton Drive, Suite I
Jackson, Mississippi 39216
(601) 362-ROSS (7677)
contact@charlieross.com
http://www.charlieross.com

New Landrum Commercial

David Landrum has his second commercial up. It stresses his executive business experience. After his lawyers' experience with YouTube, it doesn't appear the campaign is using it. But you can see the commerical at his web site: http://www.davidlandrum.com/

Script

Landrum: I'm not a lawyer, a politician or a bureaucrat.
Narrator: David Landrum, an army veteran, successful businessman, family man.
Mrs. Landrum: David will bring something different to Washington. He has a lot of experience in life that doesn’t come from a political career it comes from growing a business, growing a family.
Narrator: David Landrum.
Landrum: I'm here as a small town Mississippian who knows what it takes to start a business and create jobs.
Narrator: David Landrum. Conservative. Republican for Congress.
Landrum: I'm David Landrum and I approved this message.

Meanwhile, B Squared has posted the anti-Landrum video.

JJ - Online Poll

Jackson Jambalaya has an online poll for the Third District race on which issue is most important.

Candidates on the races so far

Clarion Ledger: "GOP appears determined to hold congressional seat dates" - "'After the statewide election, we hit the ground running and we've tried to run an aggressive campaign since,' said David Landrum, 52, a Republican candidate. The Madison County businessman said he's already garnered about $400,000 in contributions, holding his first fund-raising event a week after the Nov. 6 polls closed. 'When you look at 27 counties and 700,000 people, that's a lot of people you need to touch before the primaries,' he said.

With 90 days before voters head to the polls, state Sen. Charlie Ross agrees that getting organized quickly is important. 'We are aware this is the Christmas season, but as soon as it ends, we're prepared to go into high gear,' said Ross, 51, a Republican candidate. The Brandon resident and lawyer wouldn't share how much money he's raised so far, saying only that his team is 'pulling together the resources to run a successful campaign.'

Republican candidate John Rounsaville agrees things likely will heat up in January. 'There are a lot of other exciting things happening right now, so there hasn't been a lot of attention on this race,' said Rounsaville, 33, former U.S. Rural Development Authority state director. 'We're going to continue what we've been doing - campaigning across the district and holding fundraisers.' Rounsaville, a Madison resident who once served as an adviser on Pickering's staff, also wouldn't say how much money his campaign has raised.

During the holidays, GOP contender Gregg Harper said, he will continue reaching out to supporters 'fairly privately.' 'It appeared to us that people were just absolutely beat down ... after the statewide elections,' said Harper, an attorney from Pearl. As the former chairman of the Rankin County Republican Party, Harper said he was worn out, too. 'During that time, I didn't have the luxury of working on my own things because I was working on everybody else's,' he said.

For the Democrats, Pickens Alderman Joel Gill has been the only person to qualify. Gill, who has not publicly announced his bid, said he's not worried about GOP competition until after the primary. 'Even after that, I'm not going to be winning anything with glitz or fanfare,' said Gill, 56, a livestock dealer. 'All of my votes are going to come with all the people I've worked with over the years.' Gill, who lives outside of the district, said at this point, his campaign team is looking for more fund-raising opportunities. Candidates do not have to live in the district in order to qualify for the seat.

State Democratic Party spokesman Terry Cassreino said there was more immediate interest from the Republicans because the incumbent was a member of the GOP. 'There is still a lot of time before the qualifying deadline, and I would expect more (Democrats) to come forward after the first of the year,' he said. 'We've got a pretty good shot at that race and we're going to make it competitive.'"

Kingfish on Homeland Security

Jackson Jambalaya's Kingfish has this post on the Third District candidates and Homeland Security: The 3rd Congressional District Candidates on Terrorism and National Security

On the Ballot

Besides the Congressional race, March 11 will also see Mississippi's Presidential Preference Primary.

On the Republican Ballot: Giuliani, Huckabee, Hunter, Keyes, McCain, Paul, Romney, Tancredo, and Thompson.

On the Democrat Ballot: Biden, Clinton, Dodd, Edwards, Gravel, Kucinich, Obama, Richardson.

Hat Tip: Steve Rankin at Y'all Politics

Ross Announcement

Rankin Ledger: "Sen. Ross announces bid for Pickering post" - "Upon hearing in August that Pickering would not be running for re-election, state Sen. Charlie Ross decided to add his name to the ballot. 'I was shocked and surprised that Chip decided not to run again,' Ross said, adding that he had not seriously considering running for the seat until recently. Ross, who was defeated in August by State Auditor Phil Bryant in the Republican primary for lieutenant governor, likely will face a crowded field of GOP hopefuls for the spot. Ross said whoever wins the seat will have big shoes to fill after Pickering's six terms in office. 'I feel it's important that we elect someone that can hit the ground running,' he said. Ross said he'll be running on a conservative platform, opposing abortion and supporting the war in Iraq. He opposes government funding of stem cell research and wants to re-evaluate and alter the Social Security program. He also wants to see infrastructure improvements in the Third District to help the area keep up with its growth."

Rounsaville for Congress E-mail

Dear Friends,

Over the past month, we’ve made clear that our campaign is about experience and the issues. I have spent the past decade working with Congressman Pickering and Governor Barbour on the issues that are most important to Mississippians, and as we travel throughout the district, I enjoy talking to voters about their priorities. That’s why this week I asked the Stennis Institute for Government at Mississippi State University to host a series of debates around the district with the four announced candidates in the Republican primary. Voters deserve to know where each of us stands on the War on Terror, immigration, taxes, economic development, health care, and a host of other issues. These debates I requested will provide voters with an opportunity to make a solid assessment of the candidates.

I also made a commitment this week to voters by signing the “Taxpayer Protection Pledge,” sponsored by Americans for Tax Reform. This pledge is a sign of my commitment to lower taxes for families and small businesses. Mississippians should be able to keep more of their hard earned money. They can save, spend, and invest it much better than politicians in Washington, DC. Here’s what Grover Norquist, President of Americans for Tax Reform said: “Americans, now more than ever, need leaders committed to fiscal responsibility and pro-growth economic policies. By signing the Pledge, John Rounsaville demonstrates his allegiance to hard-working taxpayers nationwide, as well as dedication to taxpayers in Mississippi. I applaud him for his leadership and dedication to the ideals of limited government.” We need to continue our pro-growth economic policies by making the tax cuts of 2001 and 2003 permanent. The cuts include the Child Tax credit and the elimination of the Marriage Penalty and the Death Tax. Congress also needs to permanently repeal the Alternative Minimum Tax, which this year will increase the taxes of 57,000 taxpayers in the 3rd Congressional district. I’ve been on the front lines of fights to lower taxes and eliminate wasteful spending. This year, Democrats in Congress have proposed the largest tax increase in American history, and we need to make sure that our new congressman has the experience and knowledge to fight efforts like this from his first day in office.

Please take a moment to visit our website, http://www.johnrounsaville.com/, to check out the latest news, sign up to volunteer, or make a contribution. Laura and I and our whole campaign team appreciate your support and encouragement.

Yours truly,
John Rounsaville

P.S. Please take a moment to forward this to your family and friends to help spread our message.

John Rounsaville for Congress
P.O. Box 2473
Jackson, MS 39207

Red Blue Blog

Andy Taggart and Jere Nash have some comments on the Third District race at the Clarion Ledger Red/Blue Blog.

Jere: "Name ID is the single most important factor in a campaign like this one, and Ross has much of it. Assume he gets into the runoff. The leaves David Landrum, Greg Harper and John Rounsaville to fight for the second slot. Since Harper’s website is “currently under construction” that might mean his campaign will be slow to get off the ground, which means he doesn’t make the runoff. That leaves Landrum and Rounsaville. Landrum is already on television and from reading his website and looking at his ad, one comes away with the impression that Landrum is more interested in telling the voters who he is rather than what he would do in Congress. First out of the box, Landrum is all about talking about himself. Rounsaville, on the other hand, makes clear why he wants to serve and what he would do if elected, and that’s more of a winning strategy in my book. But, the word on the street is that Landrum has more money. It’s too early to call this race. We’ll have to see if Rounsaville can raise the money, if the Republican leadership in the state takes sides, and if Harper gets off the ground, but my money would favor the candidate who gets in the runoff with Ross."

Andy: "Here's my take, entirely biased: Gregg Harper was my classmate and varsity debate partner at Mississippi College. He has worked for good government and conservative causes for most of his adult life, I'm for him and I'm going to try to help him. John Rounsaville is a bona-fide superstar, who will acquit himself very well in this race, might be able to put it all together, and will be a key player in Republican politics in this state for a long time whatever happens in the primary this March. Charlie Ross is a very smart fellow who demonstrated an ability to raise a lot of money in his bruising and aggressive primary campaign against Phil Bryant early this year. It remains to be seen the extent to which the scars from the last month of that campaign are remembered by those who strongly supported Bryant. And David Landrum has made a lot of money and has a lot of folks with a lot of money supporting him. No doubt he will wage an attractive and professionally packaged campaign."

UPDATE -- Jere Responds: "One of the many reasons worth living is to write something that causes my co-author to bow up. Apparently my commentary on the race to fill Chip Pickering's place in Congress did the trick. First, I didn't know Andy was supporting Greg Harper. Andy is a teck-savvy guy; perhaps the Harper campaign could enlist him to perfect their website. Second, I can't imagine why a Democrat would run for this seat. East Mississippi is the single most conservative area of the state, to the extent that I hardly ever will venture east of the Pearl River after dark. Third, Harper is no doubt a good guy, but hardly anyone outside of Rankin County knows him (or so I'm told). Fourth, we'll know a lot more about this race after the Jan. 31 FEC campaign finance reports are released. Even though this campaign is primarily about being able to raise money to finance TV commercials, it actually does matter what message is broadcast via those commercials. So far, the candidate whose campaign Andy assures us will be 'professionally packaged' may not be benefiting the candidate."

Americans for Tax Reform

John Rounsaville and Gregg Harper have signed the Americans for Tax Reform pledge.

I, "John Rounsaville / Gregg Harper", pledge to the taxpayers of the third district of the state of Mississippi, and to the American people that I will:

ONE, oppose any and all efforts to increase the marginal income tax rates for individuals and/or businesses; and

TWO, oppose any net reduction or elimination of deductions and credits, unless matched dollar for dollar by further reducing tax rates.

Rounsaville Release
ATR Rounsaville Release
Rounsaville Release at Y'all Politics
Meridian Star: Rounsaville pledges to fight tax hikes

ATR Harper Release

Landrum for Congress E-mail

Hey everyone, my name is Camille Broome. You may remember me from the Phil Bryant campaign working with everyone at the Rankin County office. That was a great victory for Republicans and for Mississippi, but now, I have decided to work for David Landrum who is running for Congress to replace Chip Pickering, who is retiring.

Because everyone did such a great job for our next Lt. Governor, I wanted to let you know about some paid volunteer opportunities here with the David Landrum campaign.

This Saturday, December 15, we are looking to get as many volunteers as possible to help David get his message out to the voters. We are looking for paid volunteers to work in Madison and Rankin counties. We will be paying everyone $50 a person to help us from 9:30 AM until 4:00 PM this Saturday. We will be providing drinks and lunch for everyone, along with a David Landrum t-shirt.

If you are interested in helping or know of anyone interested in helping, please let me know. If you want more information about David, please visit our website at www.davidlandrum.com. Thank you again and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Camille

P.S.) If you do not wish to receive these emails, let me know and I will remove you from the list.

Camille Broome
Madison County Volunteer Coordinator
David Landrum for Congress
(866) 944-2008 - Phone
(601) 898-9094 - Fax
www.davidlandrum.com

Rounsaville Reception

John Rounsaville for Congress is holding a reception at Dennery's in Jackson on Monday, December 17, 2007. The invitation lists 36 hosts. Host Level: $1000 per couple/guest. Individual Tickets: $250 per couple/guest with RSVP to Craig Denson at RSVP@JohnRounsaville.com

Gregg Harper Fundraiser

Gregg Harper For Congress has a fundraiser on Thursday, December 13 at the Home of Nancy & Dr. Dodd Brister in Pearl. The invitation lists 21 Silver Sponsors ($1000 per couple/guest) and 18 Gold Sponsors ($2300 per couple/guest) as well as a Honorary Host Committee: Lydia & Mayor Gary Rhoads, Mayor Mark Scarborough, Donna & Mayor Jimmy Foster, Shirley & Rep. Ray Rogers. Individual tickets are $250 per couple/guest with RSVP to Evan Gardner at gardner7@gmail.com.

Rounsaville Makes Debate Challenge

John Rounsaville has asked the Stennis Institute of Mississippi State University to conduct four district debates.

Clarion Ledger: Candidate wants debates in race for Pickering's seat

Meridian Star: Republican congressional candidates challenged to debates

Campaign Release: Rounsaville For Congress Requests Series of Debates

Meanwhile Rounsaville picks up some Meridian press with this interview: Rounsaville believes youth, experience key in race to replace Pickering

Majority & CottonMouth

HatTip to MajorityInMississippi for these posts on David Landrum and John Rounsaville.

Landrum on the Issues

Rounsaville Focusing on Illegal Immigration

HatTip to CottonMouth for this post on the Landrum-Primerica video.

Primerica Opposes Free Political Speech

Democrats - Eads & Gill

John Leek at CottonMouth has an early scoop on two Democrats looking at this race: Randall Eads and Joel Gill.

Thanks for Shout Outs

Thanks to YallPolitics and WillBardwell for their notes about this blog.

Primerica Shot at Landrum on Youtube

"David Landrum on Lifestyles of the Rich and the Shameless" is a video on Youtube taking a shot at Landrum. The description says: "David Landrum's multi-level millions have bought houses, expensive cars, jewelry, and now, he wants to buy a congressional seat. It will be the icing on his cake."



A post of David Landrum's Primerica pitch video on Youtube was taken down. A visit to that location now says, "This video is no longer available due to a copyright claim by Primerica Financial Services, Inc."

An email conversation on this matter with a politico with knowledge of election law matters explains the FEC has said this type of activity is protected political speech. He shared these two articles with me.

Salon.com: "Attention all hired political hucksters and hatchet men, dirty tricksters and campaign saboteurs. The Federal Election Commission has a message for you: Go forth online. Do your dirty works. Opportunity awaits. Under a little-noticed rulemaking last year, the FEC opened a loophole in the law for just the sort of videos that de Vellis created. 'Posting a video on a Web site does not result in a 'public communication' unless it is placed on another person's website for a fee,' the FEC declared in its final rules last April. That leaves presidential campaigns, party committees, political nonprofits and individuals all free to pay employees or consultants to create so-called viral videos for them. If the videos are shown as a television commercial or paid Web ad, the authors must disclose their identity, with a 'stand by your ad' statement like, 'I'm George Bush and I approve this message.' But in free postings on YouTube and other file-sharing Web sites, the FEC allows candidates and other political interests to operate without any disclosure.

Wired.com: "The Federal Election Commission decided Monday that the nation's new campaign finance law will not apply to most political activity on the internet. In a 6-0 vote, the commission decided to regulate only paid political ads placed on another person's website. The decision means that bloggers and online publications will not be covered by provisions of the new election law. Internet bloggers and individuals will therefore be able to use the internet to attack or support federal candidates without running afoul of campaign spending and contribution limits. But FEC Chairman Michael E. Toner said the new rules give a 'categorical and unqualified' exemption for all individual and group political activity on the internet, except for paid advertising.' 'The law was never intended to regulate private citizen communication on the internet,' said Commission Vice Chairman Robert D. Lenhard. 'I believe that we have achieved that goal today.' Commissioners said the new rule also specifically changes several other FEC regulations to make it clear that internet activity, such as blogging, e-mail communications and online publications, is not covered by the campaign law. For example, the rule says individuals can use union or corporate computers or other electronic devices for political activity, as long they do it on their own time and are not coerced to engage in such activity by the union or corporation. Bloggers would be entitled to the same exemption from the campaign finance law that newspapers and other traditional forms of media receive."

Rounsaville's Roots

Monitor-Herald: Big Creek native seeks to succeed Chip Pickering - "A nice crowd of hometown supporters turned out to send John Rounsaville down the campaign trail, hopefully to victory in the race for 3rd Congressional District. 'It means a lot that the home folks will do this for me,' Rounsaville said. The county Republican party and friends and family of Rounsaville joined together to sponsor the kickoff. Rounsaville pointed to his rural, farm upbringing as a strength in representing the 3rd District. 'A lot of the candidates in this race are from the Jackson Metro area,' Rounsaville said. 'I live there, but I feel my background helps me know more than just the Jackson Metro area. I appreciate the rural areas. I am the best candidate for the job because I’ve done the job for the last 10 years,' he said, referencing his work for retiring Congressman Chip Pickering, for Gov. Haley Barbour, and as head of the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Agency office in Jackson."

State Sen. Charlie Ross announces run for 3rd District

Associated Press: "State Sen. Charlie Ross, who earlier this year ran an unsuccessful campaign for lieutenant governor, announced Wednesday that he would seek the 3rd District congressional seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Chip Pickering, R-Miss. Ross said, if elected, he would work to ensure that the nation maintains a strong military and defend its borders against illegal immigration. Ross, R-Brandon, has been in the Senate 10 years after serving one year in the state House of Representatives. He won the House seat after Phil Bryant left the job when then-Gov. Kirk Fordice appointed Bryant as auditor. Bryant defeated Ross in the Republican primary for lieutenant governor in August. He joins a growing field of candidates for the 3rd District seat. Republicans David Landrum of Madison County, John Rounsaville of Madison and Gregg Harper of Pearl also said they will seek the seat. The qualifying deadline for congressional races is Jan. 11. The party primaries are March 11. In August, Pickering said he wouldn't seek a seventh two-year term in Congress."

From The Blogs

CottonMouth mentions a Democrat considering the seat.

RightofMississippi has removed the post "Is David Landrum a Carpet Bagger?"

WillBardwell says the Charlie Ross webpage picture: Worst. Couples. Shot. Ever.

More from CottonMouth: John Rounsaville in the Meridian Christmas Parade

Marshall Ramsey on Charlie Ross's entrance to the race: Excellent

Landrum touts entrepreneurial spirit in bid for U.S. Rep. seat

Madison County Journal Profile: "It is this small business entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to serve others that has led him to campaign for the seat currently held by Rep. Charles W. "Chip" Pickering, Jr. of Flora, who plans to leave Congress in 2009. Fellow Madison resident John Rounsaville, Gregg Harper of Pearl and Charlie Ross of Brandon have also announced their intentions to run. The Jones County native says he is a leader first and foremost, someone who has built a successful company while trying to live by the motto that, 'If you focus on doing the right thing, the dollars will chase you.' While he has ventured into the fray in certain ways, serving as Gov. Haley R. Barbour's finance chairman for Madison County this election year, Landrum, a graduate of Southern Mississippi, says he is not a political animal at heart. In addition to his work with Primerica, which has 100 sales offices nationwide, Landrum is developing several residential properties in Madison County, including Noah's Mill on Mississippi 22 between Canton and Flora, and Chestnut Hill on Mississippi 463, where he intends to recreate the historic Livingston community. He is also a board member of the Madison County Foundation and Transformation Jackson and serves as chairman of the board for Mission Mississippi. He attends the Ridgeland campus of Pinelake Baptist Church. Landrum also served in the U.S. Army as a military policeman, spending time overseas in Germany that has given him a first-hand appreciation of the country's armed forces. He believes the most important issue facing the Third District is economic development and its relationship to children's performance in schools. He believes the government should have a lesser role, however, when dealing with problems like fallout from the sub-prime mortgage industry. The main role of Washington in such a situation is to conduct oversight and raise awareness, he believes. Whenever he gets some free time, Landrum said he is a big outdoorsman who goes camping. For some more technologically advanced relaxation, he enjoys listening to U2, Lynyrd Skynyrd and country music on his iPod. In the end, Landrum says he will listen to almost anything. But when he hits the campaign trail, Landrum said his single focus will be on convincing voters he is the right man for the job. 'I plan on being part of the movement to restore the Republican Party,' he said."

Ross Online

Charlie Ross has not officially announced his run yet, but his "Sen. Charlie Ross for Congress" web page is up.

David Landrum on YouTube

HatTip - Y'allPolitics and MajorityInMS

Editorial: Republican Seat

Clarion Ledger: Pickering's seat: Can Democrat win?: "Can the Democrats use this to advance their numbers in both chambers? Four Republicans quickly announced their candidacy for Pickering's seat: State Sen. Charlie Ross of Brandon, David Landrum of Madison County, John Rounsaville of Madison and Gregg Harper of Pearl. Harper is well-respected among old line Rankin County Republicans. Landrum's wealth makes him a player in a short, media-intensive campaign. Ross is fresh from a name-ID-building GOP primary for lieutenant governor, making him a strong candidate. Rounsaville's Mississippi State University connections and as a former U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development state director should help him, but finding campaign funds is his immediate challenge. But the absence of Democrats lining up for the job is noticeable - and that's for a reason. Can a Democrat win in a district that concentrates minority votes in the oddly shaped 2nd District?"

ZataPulse Ross Poll Numbers

Zata3 conducted a statewide survey of registered voters to gauge their opinions of four potential candidates in the special election to fill the unexpired term of Senator Trent Lott. Charlie Ross's numbers:

Very Favorable 6%
Somewhat Favorable 20%
Somewhat Unfavorable 18%
Very Unfavorable 9%
Not Enough Info To Form Opinion 48%

Ross Wants House Not Senate

Charlie Ross takes himself out of Senate speculation: "State Sen. Charlie Ross of Brandon, who in August lost a GOP primary race for lieutenant governor, said he still intends to campaign for Pickering's position."

Congress or Senate?

Charlie Ross has yet to "formally announce" his run for Chip Pickering's Congressional seat; but, he may now be considering Trent Lott's Senate seat. He is mentioned in the Sun Herald, Daily Journal, and CQ Politics.

Landrum's Town

Clarion Ledger: A town re-created: "Developer David Landrum and his team of consultants want to re-create Livingston, the town that served as Madison County's seat in the early 1800s. His initial plans call for a general store, farmers market, office building and chapel. From there, Landrum hopes to expand the development to include restaurants, specialty stores, offices, boutiques and, possibly, an inn, spa and tavern. Landrum said he hopes to break ground in January on a general store and a farmers' market near Livingston Church Road. 'We want to have them running by fall of next year,' he said. The stores will be locally run, and Landrum said he already has plans for who will operate them, though he would not disclose names. The general store will have gas pumps, and it will sell basic items such as bread and milk. 'This isn't going to be a convenience store,' Landrum said. 'This really is that old-time general store.'Landrum wants to kick off the grand opening of the first two stores at Livingston with a fall festival, he said. The next step of the project will be to build a new 'courthouse' that will serve as an office for Landrum and a meeting or banquet hall. A chapel for weddings also has been planned. Work on those buildings likely will begin next spring. After the first four buildings are completed, Landrum said he will begin work on additional buildings that will house restaurants, specialty shops, offices and similar businesses. While an alternate route could take some of the passing traffic away from his development, Landrum said he hopes an alternate route can be found so the rural and historical qualities of the Livingston area can be preserved. 'I think it would be beneficial to us, not hurt us,' he said. That's mostly because Landrum sees the development as being a destination place, rather than a site that relies on passing traffic. Over time, Landrum said he can see the development becoming a tourist attraction for the area, and he said he's happy to give Mississippians another place to 'get away' from the norm."

Charlie Ross

Rankin Ledger: Two county pols eye Congress seat: "Political watchers can add at least two top Rankin County politicians to the list of potential GOP contenders. Gregg Harper, outgoing chair of the Rankin County Republican Party Executive Committee, announced last week that he will be entering the race. Longtime state Sen. Charlie Ross, who lost to Phil Bryant in the GOP primary for lieutenant governor, has also said he plans to run. Ross said he plans to run for the post, but said he would not elaborate until he makes an official announcement."

John Rounsaville

Meridian Star: Former Pickering aide Rounsaville announces District 3 candidacy: "Rounsaville, who began his career as an aide to Pickering and recently resigned his post as USDA Rural Development State Director, is running on a wholly conservative platform; 2nd amendment protection, immigration control, and pro-life concerns are just some of his top issues as congressional candidate. Like most Mississippi politicians, Rounsaville promises to work for new jobs, but says that he will be able to fulfill his promise through a focus on workforce training. 'I worked on workforce training reform with Gov. Barbour,' he said, '...and I know about the federal resources available.' Rounsaville, who places a strong emphasis on 'protecting our 2nd amendment rights,' says he does so because, '(The 2nd amendment) is always vulnerable, especially with Democrats in the ajority,' and 'It is highly valuable to (Mississippi sportsmen).' He is also for providing border control workers with any technologies that might help them with their jobs and for 'increased technologies that are going to result in alternative fuel sources.' Experience, he says, is his biggest asset, and he hopes, if elected, 'to build the kind of tenure and seniority (that is) everything for a small state like MIssissippi'."

WTOK: Former Pickering Aide to Announce Candidacy

Madison County Journal: In run for Congress, Madison's Rounsaville touts experience

Starkville Daily News: MSU alum throws hat into congressional race: "A former advisor to outgoing U.S. Rep. Chip Pickering, R-3rd District, and Gov. Haley Barbour on Wednesday touted his experience as a separating factor in the race to succeed Pickering. Rounsaville, a Madison Republican and a Mississippi State University graduate, stopped at the Oktibbeha County Courthouse as part of the first of an initial three-day tour to introduce himself as a candidate. 'I think this town (Starkville) is about to explode. We’ve just got to be patient. We’re going eventually to see development on the west side of the Golden Triangle,' he said. 'It’s important that Mississippi’s (Third) Congressional District has a representative that can hit the ground running when they get to Congress and not have to rely on staff to guide Mississippi’s priorities through the legislative process and through the federal bureaucracies. I have that experience and I know that I can put it to use to make sure that Mississippians have the influence they deserve in Congress,' Rounsaville said. He says he will work for an energy independent and secure Mississippi and nation, working to expand alternative energy by supporting MSU’s research efforts and the potential for agricultural and forestry communities to improve the availability and efficiency of alternative fuel sources."

The Reflector: Alumnus to run for seat in Congress: "Rounsaville said he believes he has much to offer the many areas of Mississippi and MSU, which is included in the 3rd Congressional District. 'I will be a staunch supporter of MSU and will support more federal research dollars to promote economic opportunities for the Golden Triangle [and MSU],' he said. If Rounsaville wins the seat, he would be the second congressman from MSU to hold the position since Sonny Montgomery, who served in the position from 1967 to 1996. 'MSU needs and deserves a seat at the table when decisions are being made because we are the state's largest university and provide a wealth of expertise,' Rounsaville said. Rounsaville has served alongside with U.S. Rep. Pickering and as deputy chief of staff and legislative director and also as Gov. Barbour's policy advisor."

Clarion Ledger: Rounsaville to run for 3rd Congressional District seat

WLBT: Rounsaville to Run for Pickering's Vacated Seat

Brookhaven Daily Leader: Rounsaville touts experience in bid to succeed Pickering

The Neshoba Democrat: Rounsaville, touting experience, running for congressional seat: "He most recently served as state director of the USDA Rural Development Agency. Prior to that he served as an advisor to U.S. Rep. Charles W. "Chip" Pickering. Jr., the man he is seeking to replace, and was a policy advisor to Gov. Haley R. Barbour. Rounsaville says that he plans to carry on the legacy of Pickering and the previous occupant, G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery, particularly their strong military support for bases in Mississippi like the Naval Air Station at Meridian. Ronald Reagan is one of Rounsaville's political role models. His time in politics, including his five years in Pickering's office and as policy advisor to Barbour, is what will distinguish his candidacy, Rounsaville believes. 'I feel like having covered so many different policy areas, I'm the candidate that has something to offer everybody, whether it's agriculture and forestry issues, or economic development issues in small or larger areas,' Rounsaville said. At Rural Development, Rousaville managed a staff of 200 employees and a budget of nearly $220 million. As Gov. Barbour's policy advisor, he helped develop and pass workforce training reforms. He led an effort to rebuilt and expand water and wastewater infrastructure through South Mississippi in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Rounsaville oversaw all legislative efforts and appropriations projects for the Third District as deputy chief of staff and legislative director for Pickering. 'For a small state like Mississippi with only four elected members of the House, we need that type of experience in Washington. We need somebody that can hit the ground running from day one. Someone who is not going to have to depend on a staff to get him through his first term,' he said. While he appreciates those immigrants who are legal and living the American dream, he noted that something had to be done with those who enter the country illegally and break the laws. 'The first thing we need to do is secure the border, stopping the bleeding,' he said. 'Second, we've got to provide a better verification system for employers so that in a relatively short period of time, they can check the status of a Social Security number or name and have a quick turn around on if a person is legal or not.' Rounsville said illegal immigration is a problem that has occurred over a 20-year period that wouldn't be solved overnight. 'It is something we have got to quit ignoring. We have ignored it too long,' he said."

David Landrum

Clarion Ledger: Madison businessman plans run for Pickering's seat

AP: Landrum announces candidacy for 3rd District: "David Landrum held a news conference Thursday at the Mississippi Republican Party headquarters in Jackson to announce his candidacy. 'I am here today, not as a lawyer, not as a politician, and not as a bureaucrat, but as a small-town Mississippian who knows what it takes to start and grow a small business, keep a budget, make a payroll and create jobs,' Landrum said in a news release."

WLBT: Landrum Enters Race for Pickering's Seat: "Landrum says he plans to fight for lower taxes for families and small business. He wants to supply our military with better equipment. And Landrum says he opposes amnesty for illegal immigrants and favors securing our borders. Introduced by his wife of 29 years, Landrum told family and supporters it was time Mississippi values are represented in Washington. 'I do not believe that Nancy Pelosi represents Mississippi's values,' Landrum said. 'With your support I will go to congress and I'll make sure our values are not compromised or forgotten.' A native of Jones County, Landrum currently lives in Madison County and owns a business."

YouTube: David Landrum and Primerica

Laurel Leader Call: Landrum makes Congressional bid: "Republican David Landrum, a Laurel native and a resident of Madison for the past 22 years, announced Thursday he is a candidate for the U. S. House of Representatives’ Third Congressional District, which includes Jones County. He made the announcement at Landrum Country Village, owned by his parents, in the Tucker’s Crossing Community. Landrum enlisted in the U. S. Army after high school, and served two years as a military policeman in Georgia and one year in Germany. He finished Jones County Junior College and the University of Southern Mississippi, working his way through college and on the GI Bill. He began work with a company out of Georgia which became Primerica Corp., part of Citi Group. 'The thing that we feel like we can bring to the table is more common sense and business leadership to Washington. I’m not an expert policy, but to me it’s about leadership.' Other areas of focus for Landrum will include economic development, border security, conservative values, sanctity of life and second amendment rights. He also opposes amnesty for illegal immigrants. 'We’re a country of immigrants who came into this country, but we did it the right way,' he said."

General Reports

Y'all Politics: Congressional Race Developing in Mississippi's 3rd District

Sid Salter: Mississippi's 2008 congressional campaigns launching today: "Chip Pickering of Flora is stepping down after six terms in office at the end of his current term. As it was when the late 3rd District U.S. Rep. Sonny Montgomery stepped down in 1996, expect a relatively large Republican primary. Pickering was one of nine candidates seeking to succeed Montgomery. In all, 12 candidates sought the seat Montgomery was vacating in a 1996 race that eventually came down to a general election showdown between Pickering and a young trial lawyer named John Arthur Eaves Jr. In 2008, the GOP is again expected to be crowded for the open 3rd District seat. Possible Republican contenders include longtime Rankin County GOP chairman Gregg Harper, a Brandon attorney; state Sen. Charlie Ross of Brandon, fresh off a tough GOP lieutenant governor primary with Phil Bryant; former U.S. Rural Development Authority state director John Rounsaville; Madison businessman David Landrum; and state Sen. Walter Michel of Jackson. What's missing in a lot of the speculation over a successor to Pickering is a long list of Democratic Party contenders in a district that is believed to favor Republicans. The most mentioned name in Democratic circles is former 4th District U.S. Rep. Ronnie Shows, the man Pickering dispatched in their 2002 showdown after congressional redistricting gave Shows the short end of the straw in much of his former district."

CQ Politics: In Mississippi, Republicans Competing to Replace Pickering

Hastings Wyman: Congressional Race Developing in Mississippi's 3rd District: "The district has a strong Republican tilt -- Bush carried it by 65% in 2004 and 64% in 2000 -- so more GOPers are likely to run. For the GOP, Gregg Harper, chairman of the Rankin County Republican Party, announced this week, as did John Rounsaville, the state director of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Office. Rounsaville, 33, a former aide to Pickering, has been to Washington, DC, to meet-and-greet with potential contributors. Businessman David Landrum is expected to announce any day now. State Sen. Charlie Ross, an unsuccessful candidate for lieutenant governor this year, is likely to announce soon. For the Democrats, the most prominent prospective contender is former Congressman Ronnie Shows, who represented most of the district before the last reapportionment. Shows lost to Pickering by 64% to 35% in 2002."

Y'all Politics: Contenders and Pretenders in Scramble for MS-03

Gregg Harper

WJTV: Harper to Run for Congress: "A Pearl attorney plans to run for Chip Pickering's Congressional seat..."

WLBT: Attorney Joins Race for Pickering's Seat: "A Rankin County man is vying for Chip Pickering's congressional seat. Harper was surrounded by supporters at the Rankin County Justice Center in Brandon. He is active in Republican party politics and says he wants to restore conservative values. Harper works at his private law practice in Pearl."

Clarion Ledger: Rankin Republican to announce run for Congress: "Harper has been active in Republican Party politics for years, having served as a delegate to the last two Republican National Conventions. He is a member of the State Republican Executive Committee and has served for 7 1/2 years as chairman of the Rankin County Republican Executive Committee. He served as the Rankin County chair for Lt. Gov. Amy Tuck in 2003 and the Get Out the Vote Chairman for Rankin County in the 2007 general election."