Harper Announces Staff

Madison County Herald - Harper names staff members

Washington, D.C. Staff:

Michael Cravens, Chief of Staff
A native of Louisville, Cravens will serve as Congressman-elect Harper’s Chief of Staff from the Washington, D.C. office. An Eagle Scout, he has a bachelor of science degree in Computer Science from the University of Mississippi. Michael has spent the last twenty-three years in communications and marketing and is owner and president of Eagle Communications, a communications, public relations and marketing firm. He directed the Mississippi Senate Campaign of Sen.Giles Ward in 2007, has volunteered in political campaigns since 1976, and most recently directed the campaign of Congressman-elect Harper.

Sharon Johnson, Deputy Chief of Staff
Originally from Louisville, she has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Jackson State University. She has worked for both of Mississippi's previous two Third Congressional District Representatives, serving the last 12 years as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Chip Pickering, and prior to that, served for nine years as the Office Manager for the late Congressman G. V. "Sonny" Montgomery. Previously she was the deputy city clerk for the City of Louisville.

Scot Malvaney, Policy Director
Most recently, he was policy director for Mississippi's Lt. Governor Phil Bryant. He was the Legislative Director to former Congressman Mike Parker for eight years, served as Parker’s Chief of Staff, was a federal lobbyist for two years, was a Special Assistant for the U.S. Department of the Army, and prior to that served as a Public Affairs Advisor for seven years. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of the South.

Adam Buckalew, Communications Director and Legislative Assistant
A graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Public Relations and a minor in Speech Communications, he most recently served as Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff for Mississippi's Lt. Governor Phil Bryant. He was also the Statewide Field Director for Bryant's campaign in 2007.

Jordan Downs, Special Assistant to the Congressman and Legislative Assistant
Jordan resides in Pearl, Mississippi. He obtained his Political Science degree from the University of Mississippi in May of 2008. He most recently served as the Communications Director for Congressman-elect Harper's political campaign. Jordan is an Eagle Scout.

Ty Mabry, Military Legislative Assistant
Ty currently resides in Washington D.C. where he most recently served as Congressman Chip Pickering's Military Legislative Assistant. He attended Mississippi State University where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.

Emily Penn, Executive Assistant
Penn resides in Washington, D.C. and is originally from Jackson, Mississippi. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Mississippi. Emily most recently worked as a receptionist and staff assistant for the National Republican Congressional Committee and interned with the Energy and Commerce Committee in 2007.

Mississippi/District Office Staff:

Chip Reynolds, District Director
Reynolds will serve as Congressman-elect’s district director, overseeing all aspects of the District Offices and constituent services. With a bachelor of arts degree and master of arts degree from the University of Mississippi, Chip has an extensive background in education and politics. His previous work experience includes serving as an Instructor of Political Science for 25 years at Hinds Community College, periodic adjunct professor – Mississippi College, and Campaign Director for Senator Trent Lott’s re-election campaigns in 1994 and 2000. He also served for five years as field representative for Senator Lott’s official Senate staff. He is a former Political Director of the Mississippi Republican Party, Aide de Camp to Congressman Chip Pickering in his 2002 campaign, Campaign Director for Lt. Governor Amy Tuck in 2003, Campaign Director for Lt. Governor Phil Bryant’s campaign in 2007, and General Consultant for the Gregg Harper for Congress campaign in 2008. He lives in Clinton.

Stanley Shows, Special Assistant for Constituent Services
Serving as Rep. Chip Pickering’s district director for the past 11 years, Stanley holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Mississippi State University. He lives in Brandon, . Stanley will continue working throughout the Third Congressional District with an emphasis on assisting institutions of higher learning.

Marcy Thoms Scoggins, Director of Scheduling
A native of Richton, she has served over the past 10 years as director of scheduling for Rep. Chip Pickering. Prior to that, she served on the staff of Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott as the Assistant Scheduler for two years. She is a graduate of Mississippi State University with a Business degree. She currently lives in Madison.

Mary Margaret Myers, Director of Constituent Services
Myers worked for Rep. Chip Pickering in constituent services for the past four and a half years. She worked at Skytel in marketing for three years, at the Children’s Medical Center of Dallas in special events and fundraising for three years, and for the late Congressman G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery for three years. She has a bachelor of arts and a masters of arts in English from Mississippi State University, and is a resident of Jackson.

Keith Plunkett, Special Assistant for Constituent Services
The former editor and publisher of the Flora Harvester and Flora Harvester Online, Plunkett has experience as a business owner and is a freelance writer and photographer, his works appearing in local and regional publications. He lives in Flora.

Larry Wert, Special Assistant for Military & Veterans Affairs
A native of State College, Pa., Wert has a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education from Pennsylvania State University. He is a disabled Vietnam veteran, and a Naval aviator having served eight years in the United States Marine Corps. Most recently, he retired from L3 Communications Vertex Aerospace of Madison, Mississippi, where he was director of labor relations. He is a resident of Brandon.

Evan Gardner, District Field Representative & Constituent Services
A native and current resident of Brandon and an Eagle Scout, Gardner is a graduate of Mississippi College with a Bachelor of Science degree in History and a minor in Political Science. Prior to joining Congressman-elect Harper’s Congressional Staff, Evan served as Deputy Campaign Director for the Gregg Harper for Congress campaign and on Congressman-elect Harper’s Transition Team.

Joe Phillips, Special Assistant for Constituent Services
A lifelong resident of Jackson, Phillips worked for Rep. Chip Pickering from 1997 to 2008. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, He has also worked in several political campaigns and in advertising sales in the Jackson area.

Steve Guyton, Military Academies and Youth Services
A native of Kosciusko, Mississippi, Guyton is a graduate of the University of Mississippi with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Journalism. He served with former Fourth District Rep. Mike Parker for 10 years working on Military Academy issues and assisting high school students with their admissions process to the United States military academies. He has also worked for Congressman Chip Pickering and Senator Roger Wicker on Military Academy issues and appointments.

Hank Moseley, Special Assistant for Constituent Services
Moseley has served for the past twelve years in Congressman Chip Pickering’s Starkville office. He graduated from Mississippi State University in 1951 with a Business Degree. He lives in Starkville.

Lynn Compton, Special Assistant for Constituent Services
Compton has worked in constituent services for Congressman Chip Pickering for the past 12 years. She attended Mississippi State University, and currently lives in Meridian.

Sally Wilkinson, Special Assistant for Constituent Services
Wilkinson worked for Congressman Chip Pickering for the past year and a half in constituent services. She has previously worked for Internal Engine Parts Group, Barham Funeral Home, and Dr. Dan R. Thornton, III. She attended Meridian Community College and Mississippi State University. She lives in Meridian.

Kyle Jordan, Special Assistant & College Intern
Jordan is currently enrolled at Hinds Community College’s Rankin Campus as a Political Science major. He worked for Congressman-elect Gregg Harper’s campaign last year as well as Lt. Governor Phil Bryant’s campaign in 2007. He was also the Campaign Manager in 2006 for Judge Bill Skinner’s campaign for Hinds County Court Judge. He is a resident of Terry.

Madison County Voter Registration of 123%

WLBT - Voter rolls stuffed with dead and absent registrants

Mississippi's voter situation is hard to believe. Places like Madison County have over 123% more registered voters than people over the age of 18.

Sue Sautermeister, First District Election Commissioner in Madison County, tried to purge the rolls, but ran into trouble when it was discovered it takes a vote of three of the five election commissioners and the purge cannot take place within 90 days of a federal election.

Sue Sautermeister is working hard in the First District of Madison County to start a purging of the voter rolls as soon after the election as possible. She has file drawers full of names of people who haven't voted in years and are known to be dead.

"We have people who registered in 1965 who have never voted," she says. "We have 486 people (registered who are) over 105."

Harper Helps House Republicans

CQPolitics - Confident Cash: Candidates Not Yet in Congress but Sure Enough to Share the Wealth
Mississippi Republican Gregg Harper, who is a shoo-in to succeed retiring Rep. Charles W. “Chip” Pickering Jr. in the state’s 3rd District, is dispensing cash from a newly formed leadership PAC to many of the same candidates Schock has favored.

Harper, whose race is rated Safe Republican by CQ Politics, has given $1,000 apiece via his leadership PAC to at least five House Republican candidates, all seeking open seats: Brett Guthrie in Kentucky; Andy Harris in Maryland; Wayne Parker in Alabama; and Christopher Lee in New York; and Glenn Thompson in Pennsylvania.

Harper’s campaign manager, Michael Cravens, declined to say whether there are other candidates to whom Harper has given through his new PAC.

Cravens said Harper’s focus is not to position himself to run for a class leadership post.

“That’s an assumption that some people have made,” Cravens said. “This is only an opportunity for him to help candidates who need help.”

Harper’s PAC, which filed its FEC paperwork on Oct. 16 is the type that can give $2,300 per candidate per election.

State realtors group backs Harper

Starkville Daily News - State realtors group backs Harper

Rankin Ledger profile Harper, Gill race

Rankin Ledger - Harper, Gill to face off Nov. 4

Gill, president of Mississippi Livestock Markets Association, said, among his top priorities, are providing for veterans, securing Social Security and a responsible energy policy. The Pickens alderman said military retirees are being treated badly, especially when it comes to receiving free medical care, which was promised to many veterans. "These men and women who gave 20 years of their lives are now being told we're not going to honor that promise," he said. "That's a slap in the face to these folks. We can't give them back their 20 years (of service)."

When it comes to energy, Gill said he wants a "reasonable" energy policy - allowing offshore drilling but supporting development of hydrogen and other alternative fuels for the future. He also said he supports constraints that would keep fuel harvested from America in America. Gill said he has worked in agriculture for 38 years, and he aims to reach out to the rural population. He said many areas of southwest Mississippi lack development and these economies are sorely hurting. "I'm hoping to be able to spur small business," Gill said. Gill lives outside of the 3rd Congressional District but said he spent a big part of his life in the district, including his childhood in northeast Jackson.

Harper, who has worked on numerous Republican campaigns, also listed energy as one of his top priorities. "We have to become energy independent," the Pearl resident said. "We just can't send our nation's wealth to the Middle East any longer." Harper said he supports drilling in Arctic Wildlife National Refuge and offshore, but he also sees a need for the development of clean coal technology.

Ending illegal immigration and helping families with special needs children are some of his other big issues. Harper said the United States needs to secure its borders and continue enforcing existing laws. He said he opposes amnesty. Harper has been involved in multiple political campaigns, and his first campaign was in 1978 for Charles Pickering, when he ran against Thad Cochrane in the Republican primary. "I've always been involved in campaigns," he said. He also has served as the chair for the Rankin County Republican Party for seven and a half years.

Gregg Harper: New blood in the Third District - Craig Ziemba - Meridian Star

Gregg Harper is someone I respect as a true social and fiscal conservative and genuinely decent man. Spend an hour with Gregg and you’ll get to know a man who absolutely dotes on his wife and two children and would much rather talk about them than politics. But ask him about tax reform, illegal immigration, or national defense, and that smiling family man becomes very intense.

Gregg doesn’t have carefully nuanced positions drafted by a focus group. He has bedrock principles and has spent his whole life working for conservative causes. He quotes Ronald Reagan, Barry Goldwater, and Tom Coburn.

Gregg Harper is passionate about the sanctity of human life. I watched his face one night at a pro-life event as Gianna Jensen, the only woman to survive an attempted saline abortion, told her life story. It was clear then and has been ever since that to Gregg, the sanctity of human life is much more than just a political issue that polls well in the third district.

Hopefully, regardless of what happens in November’s general election, relative newcomers like Gregg Harper and Sarah Palin represent an emerging trend of Americans becoming involved in politics because they cherish the ideals of less government, more individual responsibility, the social values that made our country not only strong, but good.

---

Just for Kicks - Custom of civility goes missing in Senate race

Harper Makes Endorsement Rounds

Mississippi Association of REALTORS® to Endorse Harper on Tuesday

Business groups endorsing Harper - With only three weeks remaining before the Nov. 4 general election, Mississippi 3rd Congressional District candidate Gregg Harper pulled his big blue charter bus into Brookhaven once again Tuesday to publicly accept the support of several state and national business groups. The Pearl Republican stood on the steps of the Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce Tuesday morning to receive the endorsements of organizations such as the Mississippi Association of Realtors, the National Federation of Independent Business and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

WLBT - Harper takes on Gill to replace Pickering in 3rd congressional district

Harper in Natchez with Realtors, NFIB

Natchez Democrat - Harper makes Natchez campaign stop - Congressional candidate Gregg Harper stopped in Natchez Tuesday to receive endorsements from two small business associations. The Mississippi Association of Realtors and the National Federation of Independent Business endorsed Harper, the Republican candidate for Mississippi’s Third Congressional District, at a press conference at Crye-Leik Stedman Realtors. Mississippi NFIB director Ron Aldridge said small business is the heart of the economy, and Harper would “take some good, old-fashioned Mississippi common sense to Washington.” The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Builders and Contractors also endorsed Harper Tuesday, but representatives were not present at the conference.

Harper Announces Endorsements

WTOK - Harper Announces Endorsements - At a Meridian news conference, the Republican announced endorsements by the Mississippi Association of Realtors, the Associated Builders and Contractors of Mississippi, the National federation of Independent Business and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

DA: Sautermeister cleared

Roll action cleared by DA - Madison County Herald - An investigation by the Madison County district attorney's office found no criminal intent by Election Commissioner Sue Sautermeister when she inactivated more than 10,000 voters before the March primary election. District Attorney Michael Guest, in response to an inquiry by The Madison County Herald, said last month his office concluded its investigation and does not anticipate any further proceedings.

The names, while not purged from the system, were removed from the voter registration books and had to be restored by the Secretary of State's office before the March presidential and congressional primaries. Some of the names removed belonged to residents who have voted in recent elections. Congressional candidate David Landrum, whose name was on the March ballot, was removed from the poll book along with his wife. "No voters were removed from the voter rolls," Sautermeister said. "I was simply doing what I was elected to do, namely keep the voter rolls maintained and accurate."

The district attorney's worked with the FBI and the Secretary of State in determining that "there were more people on the voter rolls than there are actual voters. So a clean-up was merited in an effort to bring the voter records into compliance with the law," Guest said. "Our investigation determined the following: that the election commissioner had requested funds to notify those that were being removed from the rolls but didn't receive the requested funding; that the records that were deleted were added back into the system before any election was held; and we uncovered no evidence that the election commissioner was removing names, in an attempt to illegally disenfranchise those whose names were removed, or to impede the outcome of an election. Therefore no criminal intent was uncovered. To that end, it is the decision of this office that unless new information develops this case should not move forward.

Sautermeister said that Madison County's voter rolls are "so bloated with names of people who have died or moved out of Madison County that it is 122 percent of the county's entire population including those under the age of 18. "Counting an estimate of 10,000 who are under 18, this then means that a good percentage of the names on the Madison County voter roll is not eligible to vote. This situation is a very large open door to voter fraud, and I will continue to do all I can to properly correct the situation," she said.

All Beef, No Bull

Joel Gill Spot

Thanks to Cotton Mouth for posting this.

Animal Owners and Animal Killers Endorse Gill

Skinny Moose Media - The Sportsmen’s and Animal Owners’ Voting Alliance (SAOVA) endorsed Joel Gill for Mississippi’s 3rd district open seat congressional race. The Sportsmen’s and Animal Owners’ Voting Alliance (SAOVA) is a nationwide, nonpartisan group of volunteers lobbying legislation and seeking to elect politicians who will oppose the animal rightist threat to our rights as Americans. Our members hunt, fish and own livestock, dogs, cats and other

Debate - Raleigh

According to Joel Gill's web page, there will be a debate between Gill and Gregg Harper in Raleigh on October 23 at 6:00 p.m.

Gill Catfish Fundraiser

Madison County Herald - Gill to hold fundraiser - A fundraiser rally for Joel Gill, who is running as a Democrat for the 3rd District congressional seat, is Saturday, July 26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Al & Roses in Pickens. The cost is $20 for a catfish dinner. The event begins with entertainment and speakers from 9 to 11 a.m. U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, of the 2nd Congressional District, Rickey Cole, Eric Fleming and Robert Clark are among the speakers for the event. Gill will speak from 11 a.m. to noon and then the catfish dinner will be served from noon to 1 p.m.

Gill in Brookhaven, Clarion Ledger

Brookhaven Daily Leader - 3rd District candidate brings message to area retirees - A 3rd Congressional District contender seeking to make his name known to voters in November visited Brookhaven Thursday as part of a summer-long tour of the district. Democratic nominee Joel Gill, D-Pickens, spoke before a meeting of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association Thursday at Western Sizzlin', promising to keep an eye out for Southwest Mississippi's senior citizens if elected to Congress.

Clarion Ledger Letter To The Editor by Joel Gill - Many Miss. residents share my 'positions'

Extremely Long Article on Gill and Harper

From the Flora Harvester (Hat Tip Y'all Politics): District 3 Candidates Ready for Drive to November

Gill at Obama Fest

Greg Snowden's blog - Hats Off To Joel Gill - Subscribers to The Meridian Star opened their Sunday paper to a front-page "above the fold" article about "Obama Fest 2008," a political rally staged over the weekend in downtown Meridian by the Lauderdale County Democratic Party. Featured in the accompanying photograph is Congressional candidate Joel Gill, microphone in hand, lustily exhorting the party faithful to elect Democrats in November. Why is this noteworthy? The truth is, it’s a rarity these days when any Mississippi congressional candidate not named Bennie Thompson actually admits to even being a Democrat. Joel Gill, however, is made of sterner stuff. You may disagree with his politics, as I certainly do, but you must salute Gill’s willingness to at least admit what he is. His honest approach to party affiliation will allow Third Congressional District voters a clear choice between his candidacy and that of his conservative Republican opponent, Gregg Harper.

Harper visits Ridgeland board

Madison County Journal - Harper visits board - Gregg Harper, the Republican nominee Mississippi's Third Congressional District, met briefly with the Mayor and Board of Aldermen and other city officials before Tuesday's regular meeting. When introduced at the beginning of the meeting by McGee, Harper thanked the board for letting him come for a visit and expressed his hope to work closely with the city if he is elected in November. "I hope to always be accessable to the city and work closely with city officials," Harper said. "Now I'm going to go spend some money in Ridgeland and buy my wife some dinner." Harper will face Democratic nominee Joel Gill in the Nov. 4 general election to fill the seat left vacant when former U.S. Rep. Charles W. "Chip" Pickering resigned earlier this year.

Rothenberg on Harper

The Rothenberg Political Report - Good Candidates for House Come in All Shapes and Sizes - Every election cycle, I meet a lot of candidates running for the U.S. House of Representatives. Some, in fact many, have more liabilities than assets. But some actually impress me. This column is about four of them, and I’d advise keeping an eye on each at least until November.

Gregg Harper (R), Mississippi’s 3rd district. An attorney and former Rankin County Republican chairman, Harper, 52, did what many candidates promise to do but, in fact, don’t. He put together a successful grass-roots campaign. With one of his primary opponents flush with money and the other a well-known state Senator who had the governor’s media consultant at his disposal, Harper was the long-shot Republican hopeful with little cash and no district-wide recognition. But his years toiling in Republican political vineyards — whether working in phone banks for a Mississippi GOP candidate in 1978, serving as a Republican observer of the Florida recount in 2000 or working as a legal volunteer for President Bush’s campaign in Ohio in 2004 — paid off.

Harper is straightforward, astute and earnest. It’s clear that he is an extremely hard worker, and that people who meet him are willing to go to work to help him. That’s a very good sign. In a rarity these days, Harper refused to use negative information about one of his opponents. But don’t think Gregg Harper is politically naive. He isn’t. And he will win the open seat in November.

Gill on Science

In his responses to Scientists and Engeineers for America, Joel Gill rejects the premise of global warming ("Being in the cattle business, I question why just now are cow bealches and flatulence being blamed for global warming. They have been preforming these natural functions since the beginning of time. I suggest that we are in a normal cycle that will in the next 100 years return to the cooler temperatures of the past.") and shares his energy policy ideas:

"With the rising cost of fuel, people will self limit and shift to those fuel efficient vehicles on their own so I do not favor mandating greater restrictions on manufactures. I support greater research to develop military vehicles that will be more fuel efficient and enviroment friendly. I favor more nuclear develpoment for electricty. I favor more research on hydrogen as a fuel. I favor providing credits to promote more usage of Geo thermal technology for home heating and cooling. For the immediate future, I favor expanded drilling operations both off shore and in ANWR and new refineries provided the oil stays in the United States and does not enter the world market. This must be coupled with a requirement to ensure no or very little reduction in the current amount of oil supplied to by sellers in this nation."

He also makes statements on the environment and stem cells, "I do not favor expansion of the current wetlands policies which encraoch on private property rights. I somewhat lean in favor of support more stem cell research."

Gill TV

Joel Gill is buying half-hour cable television time, according to Cotton Mouth - "The Gill for Congress 1/2 hour television show will begin airing every evening at 8 PM from Monday till election day on CABLE ONLY...A new show will be taped each week running the entirety of the week." Check out Cotton Mouth for channel details.

Is this a real Joel Gill interview?

This portrays itself as an interview between Joel Gill and Richard Barrett's racist organization. Is this for real?

The Joel Gill Interview

The alleged interview has Gill saying that he is elected as an alderman in an eighty-percent black town, "so I have to go in that direction." He mentions his first fundraiser is coming up and everyone there will be Obama supporters, and he can't come out against Obama because "I am right there at Holmes County and it is mostly black." Gill says he can't get close to Richard Barrett because "It would hurt my chances" and turned down a meeting with Barrett's people because "If my opponent found out and there were pictures taken, it could hurt me." When asked about a picture on his web site with Bennie Thompson, Gill says, "I wanted to show that I am a lobbyist. I am trying to get some support for my area. Did you, also, notice my picture with Trent Lott?" When asked about the flag vote Gill said, "Well, I am for our heritage." Gill describes his opponent Gregg Harper as "very flaccid" and says "not appealing." In the end, Gill says he was just returning the call but can not accept any support from Barrett's organization, but he'll take their money.

Gill opposes Flora National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility

Starkville Daily News - Biolab’s safety questioned - In a meeting at the West Point Stockyard Thursday morning, cattlemen gathered to learn more and express concerns to representatives of the state's bid for the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility. Stanley Scott, Mississippi's membership chair for R-Calf USA, an organization representing cattle producers, organized the meeting Thursday to ensure the possible concerns of those he represents were voiced. Before the meeting, Scott and Joel Gill, Democratic candidate for U.S. representative for the Third Congressional District, said they were concerned about the potential economic and health impact of the possible accidental release of an infectious disease like foot and mouth disease (FMD) into the Mississippi cattle population. Scott and Gill said they worry that FMD could escape the Biosafety Level 4 facility as previously occurred at the Plum Island facility (a Level 3 facility), but its separate and remote location prevented the disease from spreading off the island while the Flora site and the other proposed sites are located in populated areas. The release of FMD in 1978 at Plum Island was determined largely to be due to the age of the facility, said Dr. Bianca Garner, a microbiologist consulting on the project for the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership. Older biolab facilities are more difficult to upgrade and maintain, especially when in a remote location like Plum Island, Garner said. By bringing the biolab to a mainland area, maintenance and upgrades could be more routinely performed, she said. Garner pointed to the safe operation of a Biosafety Level 3 facility at UMMC as representative of the feasibility of maintaining a high-level lab in a highly-populated area. Garner has worked in the UMMC lab in Level 3 with anthrax and holds FBI clearance and CDC certification. Gill supported the demolition and complete rebuilding of the facility on Plum Island. "I think we really need to upgrade the facility but in its current location," Gill said. "The diseases that they work with are far too dangerous." Gill currently serves as president of the Mississippi Livestock Markets Association, an organization of sale barns and licensed dealers in the state, he is also a second-term aldermen in Pickens and serves on the boards for the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce and the Holmes County Cattlemen's Association. All the potential biolab sites are in major cattle feeding areas, Gill said. For Gill, the potential risk of a FMD outbreak is too great to the state. "In the name of economic development, I think it's too high a price to pay," he said. The economic impact of the $451 million facility is estimated at $3 billion to $5 billion over 20 years. "I think the economic impact is going to be much higher than that," Dzielak said. The lab's location in Mississippi could also push the state into the biotechnology sector, he said. Despite the answers Garner and Dzielak brought to the table, Scott and Gill remained concerned about the potential impact on their livelihoods from an outbreak of FMD. "I feel a little better about it," Gill said after the meeting, noting that he still is concerned, especially since he makes his living from the livestock industry. "I wish I could feel at ease about it ... but in light of this foot and mouth disease, I'm just a little nervous," Scott said. "It is in my mind as one of the world's most dangerous research labs and should be treated as such."

Gill Out - Shows In?

Ronnie Shows told Paul Gallo that people had approached him to run against Harper in November if Joel Gill were to pull out of the race, but seemed to dismiss the idea, according to Gallo Notes courtesy of Y'all Politics.

Harper and Wicker at Lake Fest

WTOK - Political Candidates Stump At Lake Fest - The town of Lake may be small, but every year Lake Fest attracts some big political names. Last year it was Haley Barbour, and this year a pair of Congressional hopefuls headed to the tiny town on the Scott and Newton County border. Roger Wicker and Gregg Harper both know how important small town America is to their respective campaign. Harper also spent part of his day at Collinsville's Lively Arts Festival. "It's always about going out and grassroots (campaigns). In Mississippi people still expect to be asked for a vote, and this is the way you go and do it. What a great day to be in Lake," said Gregg Harper - Republican, Candidate, US House District 3. "There are obviously a lot of folks that live in Lake that drive a good distance to go to work, maybe in other areas. It is hurting in everybody's pocketbook and we've got to do something about that. Certainly long-term we have got to be able to build some more oil refineries, you've got to be able to drill for oil in Alaska and offshore," said Harper.

Gill advocates increased SS taxes on incomes above $102K

Commercial Dispatch - Tax issues atop Mississippi Democrats' to-do lists if elected to Washington - Raising the Social Security tax ceiling, eliminating income tax paid on overtime and regional transportation are a few of the issues Mississippi Democrats seeking federal office want to introduce in Washington if they’re elected.

“How can you be the poorest state in the nation and have everybody have to have a car?” asked Erik Fleming, the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate running against longtime Mississippi Republican Thad Cochran. “Now, I’m not saying that Starkville is going to get an L-Train,” the Chicago native told the meager crowd Monday night during the Oktibbeha County Party annual Beans and Greens fundraiser, as he touted efforts to work toward regional transportation systems that might link communities like Starkville, West Point and Columbus.

Joel Gill, the Democrat from Pickens who will face Gregg Harper, the Republican from Pearl, for the chance to serve in the 3rd Congressional District, to replace retiring U.S. House Rep. Chip Pickering, wants to raise the ceiling on Social Security so high income earners will pay more, helping to make the system more solvent. The wage ceiling for 2008 is set at about $102,000, which means income above this amount is not taxed for Social Security.

What Gill and other Democrats like Fleming and Ronnie Musgrove — who was scheduled to speak at the Beans and Greens event but was unable to attend and will face Roger Wicker for Trent Lott’s old U.S. Senate seat — are counting on is large numbers of Democrats turning out in the November election, particularly if Barack Obama becomes the Democratic nominee for president.

Harper says thanks

WTOK - Harper Thanks Supporters - Two days after securing the Republican nomination, third district congressional candidate Gregg Harper formally thanked his supporters. The Pearl attorney held a news conference in Jackson Thursday morning. Harper defeated former state Sen. Charlie Ross in a runoff Tuesday. He's back on the campaign trail now, getting ready for the general election. Harper touted some of the issues he plans to tackle, if he wins the general election, including illegal immigration. "We have to secure our borders," said Harper. "And we have to enforce those existing laws on immigration that we don't know whether they'll work or not, because we haven't done a good job of taking care of those." Harper will take on Democrat Joel Gill in the general election Nov. 4.

Harper Beats Ross

Gregg Harper - 29,351 - 57%
Charlie Ross - 22,178 - 43%

Madison: Police investigate removal of political signs

Madison County Journal Online - Police investigate removal of political signs - The Charlie Ross campaign is denying allegations that its volunteers were authorized to remove area Gregg Harper signs over the weekend.

Madison Police Chief Gene Waldrop said his department interviewed several young people on Sunday who admitted that they removed the Harper signs while placing pro-Ross signs near the intersection of U.S. Highway 51 and Madison Avenue. According to Waldrop, there is no evidence or testimony that the people associated with Ross were specifically told by the Ross campaign to remove Harper signs. About 30 signs were found in the possession of the campaign workers on Sunday.

He added that Harper, although upset about the incident, declined to press charges or pursue the matter further after meeting with him on Monday morning. "I don't think they said they were being paid to take them (Harper signs) up. I think they said they were being paid to put out Charlie Ross signs," Waldrop said.

Stealing the signs would constitute a misdemeanor offense. Waldrop said it was not unusual for such allegations to surface during political campaigns.

Mark Lyon, the campaign director for Charlie Ross, said it never authorized or paid anyone to remove another candidate's signs and did not condone the action. Lyon said the campaign was unaware of the situation until Monday afternoon but wanted to focus on the issues. "Many Charlie Ross signs have been taken down since the first primary. However, we have not made any accusations against the Gregg Harper campaign organization, we attribute this to overzealous supporters," Lyon said in a prepared statement on Monday afternoon.

Gregg Harper's campaign director Michael Cravens said the issue was minor and did not merit a great deal of attention. "We just really hesitate to get involved in something like this, because it's so trivial in the whole scope of things," Cravens said on Monday afternoon. "We're going to be true to Gregg Harper's commitment to running a clean and positive campaign."

Waldrop said his department had worked in conjunction with the Ridgeland Police Department after the allegations surfaced in both Madison and Ridgeland. He said he received vehicle tag numbers belonging to the Ross campaign workers from local business owners who expressed concern about the Harper signs being taken down. "I think at this point, you may have a he-said or she-said situation," Waldrop said.

Hatcher Endorses Ross

HatTip: Y'all Politics

"During my campaign through the whole district I never met a Charlie Ross supporter who worked to exclude me or discouraged my efforts as a candidate. In every instance Charlie, his family, campaign staff and supporters always made the "newcomer" feel welcome. I am pleased with their honorable campaign. Please join me and vote for Charlie Ross on Tuesday, April 1st." - Greg Hatcher, Former MS-03 Republican Candidate, 4/1/8

Madison Mischief

Flora Harvester - Complaint filed with Madison and Ridgeland PD's over campaign shenanigans - (HatTip sippydog at Y'all Politics) [Y'all has now removed the post.] - A complaint was reportedly filed with the Madison and Ridgeland Police Department’s Sunday evening following mischief related to the ongoing District 3 Republican runoff. The situation stems from a group of young men allegedly being paid by a Madison Alderman in conjunction with the Charlie Ross campaign to remove Gregg Harper signs. The Ross camp was accused of similar tactics in the last days leading up to the Republican primary for Lieutenant Governor against Phil Bryant last year. Margaret Collins, a Harper volunteer, said that she was talking with a friend in the parking lot of a Ridgeland shopping center on Saturday around 6:30pm when a carload of young men pulled up, jumped out and began hurriedly removing Gregg Harper signs from the area. “It was almost like a Chinese fire drill,” Collins said. “They were jerking (Harper) signs up.” Collins, who is a teacher, said she immediately “went into teacher mode” and began questioning them.
As we questioned them, they kept changing their story and giving excuses,” she said. “First, they said they worked for the City of Madison. When we reminded them that they were in Ridgeland, they then said they worked for the County.” Collins said that the youngest of the group wanted to cooperate and claimed he was “just trying to make some money.” “We asked them if they were being paid by the Charlie Ross campaign, and the young man said, ‘yes’,” said Collins. Collins said she had the boys open the back of their Red Nissan X-Terra. “The signs in the trunk were all Harper signs,” she said. She said the driver then called someone who claimed to be an Alderman from the City of Madison. “The Alderman said to leave the signs up but that they will be down by Monday,” Collins recalls. “Then when we demanded the signs in the trunk, the (driver) called him back to see if they could give them to us.” Collins said neither she nor her friend were able to get the name of the Alderman, but that they were able to get a tag number off the vehicle and grab about 20 signs before the young men began to be confrontational. “It appeared they were getting paid for each sign they collected,” she said. Collins says, “It’s a shame that volunteers spend their time working on a campaign, only to see this kind of thing happen.” “I think it is ridiculous that someone would do this kind of thing,” she said. Calls to both Madison and Ridgeland Police Departments for comment were not immediately returned.

Vote Tomorrow

Andy Taggart Blog - Tuesday's GOP Run-off: Third District

Alan Lange - Harper vs. Ross - This one could be really close in MS-03

WTOK - Harper Supporters Campaign In Meridian

WTOK - Charlie Ross Campaigns During Air Show

Clarion Ledger - Vet touts record, takes nothing for granted

Clarion Ledger - Underdog draws fervid support despite hurdles

WLBT - Profile of Third Congressional District Candidates

Commercial Dispatch - Rankin attorneys vying for congressional post

CQ Politics - Tuesday’s Mississippi House Race: Neck and Neck

AP - Miss. holds runoffs Tuesday in congressional primaries

Yancey Endorses Harper

Lee Yancey, who now occupies the senate seat formerly held by Charlie Ross, has endorsed Gregg Harper.

Ross BBQ

You're Invited!

Barbeque at Bass Pro Shop
with Republican Third Congressional District Candidate
Charlie Ross

Sunday, March 30th
4:30-6:30pm

Sportsman's Hall, Bass Pro Shop
100 Bass Pro Drive, Pearl, MS

This event is free and open to the public.

We hope to see you there!

If you're interested in joining Team Charlie, we've got plenty of opportunities to get involved. Contact Robert or TJ here at the campaign headquarters, (601) 362-7677.

5 days and counting

Madison County Journal - Ross, Harper meet in runoff Tuesday

WTOK - Ross Speaks to Kiwanis Club

Scott County Times - GOP Runoff Tuesday

Scott County Times - Candidates See Importance Of Scott County

WTOK - Congressional Candidates Meet Voters

Madison Journal: Harper for Congress

Madison County Journal - EDITORIAL/Gregg Harper for Congress - Tuesday's Republican run-off election between Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross in the Third District will more than likely give the victor a straight ticket to Washington. The race between Harper and Ross is expected to be a horse race.

Either man would represent the district well. Ross has paid his dues in the halls of the state capitol as an experienced and knowledgeable legislator. He knows the mechanics of lawmaking.

Harper has paid his dues in the trenches of the Rankin County Republican Party and has developed a loyal grass roots following traversing the district in a bus once owned by Garth Brooks, which, frankly, has been one of the more interesting aspects of an otherwise dull campaign.

Ross could have no finer endorsement than Aaron Rice, the boyish Iraq war veteran who lost his left leg below the knee in a land mine attack in 2005. What a great American!

But a few key factors stand out about Harper which make him the most logical choice in this otherwise flip-of-the-coin race.

Harper is a fiscal conservative who wants to put an end to the wasteful Washington spending. He believes in a financially strong America. He has been an advocate of the Second Amendment and is quick to tell you he is a lifelong member of the NRA. Harper has also spoken out against illegal immigration, as did most every other Republican candidate. He is a strong advocate of public schools, educating his own children in them. Harper is personable and we believe will be more accessible, but he'll need to surround himself with good people knowledgeable about important issues like transportation, education and economic development.

Vote Gregg Harper for Congress on Tuesday.

Friedeman for Harper; Letters for Ross

Matt Friedeman: Gregg Harper - Gregg Harper goes into every conversation he is a part of wanting to make the other participant feel good; at the least, show them tremendous respect. He has done this across a lifetime. Buy Charlie a copy of "How to Win Friends and Influence People." Gregg knows how to run a campaign without making other people foaming at the mouth mad. Charlie doesn't. Gregg says that he is a Christian and actually comes off as one when you meet him. Gregg has influenced enough people across a lot of years in grassroots politics to build up tremendous word of mouth on his behalf and great energy from people that volunteer for him. Gregg does things for you without asking anything in return. But you want to give something back when you have a chance. Having served people in the political realm like that person-to-person people are personally excited about Gregg's candidacy. Many are highly motivated to get out and vote for him on a day few will be getting out and voting for anyone. Now, I actually like Charlie Ross. If elected - and frankly, he could be - he would make a great congressman. He would hit the ground running. But if he doesn't, and I don't think at this point he will, these are the reasons why. Here's voting for Gregg Harper who has substitute hosted The Matt Friedeman Show for years. Fine Christian, socially and economically conservative, savvy personally, lots of friends that love the Harpers.

Scott County Times - Letter To The Editor - Dear Editor, 2008 is a critical election year for Mississippi, especially for conservative voters. April 1 is the runoff election for congressional seats. In November, we will also be electing the next president and our U.S. senators. Therefore, we here in the Third District cannot afford to send a congressman to Washington who has no legislative experience whatsoever. We will need a strong leader who is not afraid to stand up for us. Charlie Ross is that candidate. Charlie has always been a strong advocate for conservative Republican values and spent his time in the state senate working hard with Gov. Barbour and other Republican leaders to protect us and to help Mississippi grow its economy. Charlie is a strong Christian who is an Elder in his Presbyterian Church in Rankin County. He’s a family man and a veteran. Charlie loves Mississippi and wants to continue to serve us. If you voted in the March 11 GOP Primary, I would ask that you go to the polls on April 1 and vote for Charlie Ross n the only candidate with legislative experience. He will represent us with Christian dignity and conservative values. Thanks for your consideration, Judith Lewis, Morton

Clarion Ledger - Letter To The Editor - Ross' experience to benefit 3rd District constituents - The person we send to Washington to represent the 3rd Congressional District will be confronted with monumental decisions involving the economy, immigration, the military and cultural upheavals that threaten the character of our nation. We are fortunate to have a candidate who has the legislative background, experience and moral courage to meet these challenges. Charlie Ross is that candidate! As a veteran, he understands the military! As a legislator and a student of economics, he understands taxes budgets and the need for fiscal restraints! He has authored bills in the Mississippi Senate that have opened doors for new jobs throughout the state! As a problem-solver, he has practical ideas to offer regarding the illegal immigration crisis! On a personal level, Ross is a dedicated Christian, an elder and teacher in his church, a devoted husband to Sharon, and father of three sons: Andy, David and Steven. My descriptive terms for this outstanding public servant include: sincere, straight-talker, good listener, bright, intense, common-sensical, conservative, and competent! Ross as a representative from the 3rd Congressional District of Mississippi will serve the state and the nation with distinction! John D. McEachin, M.D., Meridian

Six days and counting

Clarion Ledger - Sid Salter - 2008 congressional races present important, difficult choices - Over in the 3rd District, Democrat Joel Gill of Pickens has sewn up the Democratic nomination and will be a serious candidate in November. But the makeup of the district still leaves the Republican nominee in the driver's seat and the GOP second primary features a tight, tough race between first primary front-runner former state Sen. Charlie Ross of Brandon and longtime former Rankin County GOP chairman and Pearl attorney Gregg Harper. Ross, an experienced legislator with the pedigree of the U.S. Air Force Academy and Harvard Law School, has run a solid campaign and avoided most of the mistakes that plagued his failed 2007 GOP lieutenant governor's bid. Harper used an effective ground game, particularly in Rankin County and smaller counties on the east side of the district, to surprise the prognosticators in the first primary. Lott's backing Harper, while Ross has the backing of the influential Club for Growth. But Harper's support among evangelical voters may be the deciding factor - that and his relentless, thorough ground game.

ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash - Update on Congressional Finances - Gregg Harper -- $139,161.25; Charlie Ross -- $241,612.20

ClarionLedger.com - Leah Rupp - On the road again... - I'm on the road with Republican 3rd Congressional candidate Gregg Harper. We're heading to Brookhaven, Natchez then back up to Meadville. Natalie (my colleague at the Capitol) was out with Charlie Ross — Harper's opponent in the run off April 1 — earlier this week. Which one do you like? And why? Or perhaps you like Democrat Joel Gill of Pickens? What are each candidates strengths and weaknesses (in your opinion)? Your favorite reporter has to write a profile this weekend.

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Meridian Star - Congressional candidates meet voters - All three candidates currently running for the 3rd Congressional District seat were in Meridian Tuesday to speak, answer questions, and mingle with voters at a Young Professionals of Meridian forum at the Hilton Garden Inn on Highway 11/80. The candidates appeared before about 120 voters at the YPM function, each giving a five minute speech about themselves and answering three questions from YPM members about health care, the war in Iraq, and the economy.

Charlie Ross said, "This race is not so much about Charlie Ross or Gregg or Joel. It's about you. What type of legislator do you want in the 3rd district?" Ross spoke of his record as a state legislator, and compared himself to the late former congressman G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery, saying that they both served 10 years in the state legislature, were both veterans, and that he hoped to follow in Montgomery's footsteps. "I believe in public service," he said. "I believe in being accessible, and I will have a fully staffed office in Meridian."

Harper talked about education in his introduction. "To be in the fight, you need to be in the system," he said. "That's why our kids are in public schools," adding that he felt many parents of public school children would agree that "No Child Left Behind needs some work," saying that it was a problem for both students and teachers. He then moved on the subject of illegal immigration, saying, "I'm sick of...tax dollars going to pay benefits to illegals," and that much of the illegal immigration problem could be solved by securing the borders and enforcing the current immigration laws.

Ross also spoke about immigration, saying that the first step in solving the problem with illegal immigration is securing the border. "We can secure a border, and we need to secure our southern border just like we secured our northern border against the Soviets," Ross said.

Gill made his first public appearance in Meridian at Tuesday's YPM function. He opened by apologizing for not being present at the debate held in Meridian last month, saying," I had given my word that I would chair the RKF convention in Omaha," even before deciding to run for the congressional seat. He then joked about the number of candidates who had been in the Republican primary, saying, "I'm proud to say of the three of us here I was able to garner the greatest vote total and I hope to do that again in November." Gill, a town alderman from Pickens who is in the livestock business, talked of the damage that he feels big box stores and free trade agreements have done to American workers, saying, "The physical toll on individuals is devastating," and that free trade agreements put both foreigners as well as Americans out of work, contributing to illegal immigration. Gill also proposed using the minimum wage to determine a person's tax deduction, so that an individual who made minimum wage would pay no taxes, while one that made a dollar over minimum wage would pay taxes on that one dollar, and so forth. He said he wants income tax rates to be determined by congressional spending because, "if you know that congressional spending is what's going to control your tax rate, then you'll be a lot more involved."

Ross touted his experience, mentioning laws he had written in that area, speaking of a tort reform law when talking of economic development, and "Jessica's law" when speaking of sexual predators. Of economic development in Lauderdale County, Ross said, "Meridian is prime for a new industry ... I fully support the new interchange...If you build it they will come." Ross also said that the cost of health care could be reduced by health insurance related tax deductions directly to individuals rather than doing so through their workplace, and that the economy could be strengthened by making the Bush tax cuts permanent.

Harper said that one way to address the health care problem was to reduce costs by slackening government regulations on hospitals. Of the war in Iraq Harper said, "I think the Republicans did a lousy job of articulating why we're in Iraq...It's about the war against fundamentalist Islamic terrorism," closing his Iraq comments with strong words, "Every time we get bombed then we ought to drop a hard bomb on Iran and Syria where all this garbage is coming from."

New TV spots

Here is the closing spot for Gregg Harper.


This is a spot done for Charlie Ross by Club For Growth.

Golly Gee

Marshall Ramsey's take on the fly off.

Red v Blue on Harper

ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash Blog - Gregg Harper & Mississippi Values - Congressional candidate Gregg Harper has a new TV ad, in which he tells voters he "is running to ensure that our conservative Mississippi values have a voice in Washington." Harper then goes on to observe that "Washington has gotten off track" and that "now, more than ever, Washington needs a good dose of old fashion Mississippi values." One has to only wonder why candidates run ads like this. I guess they think voters are too dumb to ask questions like: (1) Does Harper not think Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker represent Mississippi values in Washington? or (2) Does Harper think Chip Pickering was not good enough in the values department and, as a result, allowed Washington to get off track? or (3) What values would Harper bring to Washington that President Bush does not already practice? One reason I think turnout in the Republican primary was so dismal was that none of the major candidates offered voters anything remotely exciting or different or challenging. Just the same old slogans their pollsters and media consultants tell them to say.

ClarionLedger.com - Nash hits Gregg Harper: Harper's stock skyrockets with Republicans - Memo to my friend Jere Nash: Please write some more unfavorable posts about my Mississippi College classmate Gregg Harper and his campaign for Congress. Every time you take a shot at Gregg, his stock goes higher among Republican voters. But the primary is only a little over a week away now, so please write something else bad about him soon...

Finances

Clarion Ledger - Congressional race spending mounting - Former state Sen. Charlie Ross holds the fund-raising edge. Ross has raised more than $680,000 in his race against Gregg Harper, a prosecutor in Brandon and Richland. Former Sen. Trent Lott contributed $4,000 this week to Harper's campaign. Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant also donated $1,000. Bryant defeated Ross last year in the lieutenant governor's race. Harper supplemented the contributions of the high-profile Mississippi Republicans by loaning his campaign $20,000.

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ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash Blog - Congressional Campaign Finance Update - Republican candidates in the runoffs for the First and Third Congressional District slots have filed their pre-runoff reports with the FEC (which covered financial activity through March 12) and have since filed 48-hour reports to disclose major contributions received since March 12. If we add all of the 48-hour contributions disclosed by the candidates to the cash-on-hand balances they disclosed on their March 12 pre-primary report, we get a pretty good idea of how much money the candidates have to spend in this runoff election. Here's how the money stacks up:

Greg Davis -- $146,562.99

Glenn McCullough -- $122,434.01

Gregg Harper -- $131,861.25

Charlie Ross -- $186,612.20

By and large, the candidates are relatively evenly matched in the money game. Ross is ahead in his race because he contributed $55,000 of his own money to the cause. And the Trent Lott endorsement has apparently helped Greg Davis raise some extra money.

Ross, Harper in Meridian

Meridian Star - Hitting the campaign trail: Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross - Harper, an attorney, is particularly proud of his grassroots ground campaign in which friends, family, and other volunteers have been going door-to-door with him all around the district. "Sidney has worked harder than I have," he said of his wife's door-to-door campaigning. His daughter, Maggie, and his son, Livingston, also have participated in the door-to-door effort, and Livingston, who suffers from a developmental disorder known as Fragile X Syndrome appeared in a T.V. ad with his father. "Livingston has enjoyed the celebrity status," Harper said. Harper feels confident about his campaign, saying, "We do believe that many of the supporters of other candidates have gotten on board with us financially and by volunteering. The momentum has been building since March 11. We're raising sufficient funds to be able to do more than we were able to do in the primary, and we have one of the best volunteer grassroots campaigns that I've ever seen. And you don't create that in three weeks." Harper has been canvassing the entire district, but has not forgotten about Lauderdale County. In a recent rally at Union Station, he said that the race "is going to be won or lost in Lauderdale County," and that residents are, "going to think we live in Meridian by April 1."

Ross hasn't forgotten about Lauderdale County either, appearing shortly after the primary to announce endorsements by former opponents Bill Marcy and Greg Hatcher, both Meridian residents. Also present at that event was Gil Carmichael, a long-time Republican leader in Mississippi. He appeared in Meridian again shortly afterwards to open a new office here, saying "I will be your congressman, I will maintain an office in Meridian." The comment prompted Harper to mention at his event that "I was the first candidate to open up an office in Meridian." Both Harper and Ross have attracted sizable crowds at their events. Ross, a veteran and a state senator, has put a strong emphasis on military in his Lauderdale County campaigning, promising over and over again, "I will keep a flying mission at the Air National Guard in Meridian," and repeatedly referring to his veteran status. Ross also has pointed extensively to his experience in the state senate as a qualifying factor in his bid for the congressional seat.

Want to meet the candidates of the Third Congressional District – Democrat Joel Gill and Republicans Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper — and hear what they have to say about the issues? The Young Professionals of Meridian will host "Meet the Candidates" on Tuesday beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 109 U.S. Highway 11 & 80. The event is free and open to the public. There will be light appetizers and a cash bar. Each candidate will speak and answer questions; they will also mingle with the crowd. The event will last until about 7 p.m. For more information, e-mail ypmeridian@gmail.com, or call (601) 938-0087.

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WTOK - "On The Record" Features Congressional Candidates - The Republican runoff for the Third District Congressional race is just over a week away and both candidates have been spending a lot of time in East Mississippi. One candidate has actually said that the election will be won in Lauderdale County. The candidates appeared this weekend on "On the Record' with Newscenter Eleven's John Johnson. Here is what the candidates had to say.

"East Mississippi is an important part of what happens in Mississippi and I "believe this election will be won or lost right here in Lauderdale County, which is why I think it's so important to be here," said Gregg Harper.

"East Mississippi is such an important part of the district. I'm conservative and will be straight forward and accessible. I said early on that I will have an office in Meridian so people can talk to a live human being rather than over the phone. I'm committed to making Mississippi and the third district better," said Charlie Ross.

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WTOK - Harper, Ross to Debate on WTOK - Both Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross arrived at WTOK's downtown Meridian studio for a taping of "On the Record" ready to explain why they are the best choice for the Republican nomination for Congress.

"One of the things missing in politics is real focus on the issues," said Ross, referring to the limitations of 30-second sound bites. "I think it's important for the system and important for the public."

"I think people get a better glimpse. It's so hard to really know who a candidate is in a 30 second commercial," said Harper. "We feel we have done it the best we can, but it's much better to let people hear more of what you have to say."

Harper said it's that he can work well with others, while Ross says it's his experience that sets him apart.

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Meridian Star - Congressional hopefuls to make Meridian stop - Both GOP hopefuls for the Third Congressional district — Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper — will face off one week from today in a runoff election in the Republican primary. Today, both candidates, along with Democrat Joel Gill, will be in Meridian — an area they consider critical to the election — to meet with local voters. The Young Professionals of Meridian will host "Meet the Candidates" today beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 109 U.S. Highway 11 & 80. The event is free and open to the public. There will be light appetizers and a cash bar. Each candidate will speak and answer questions; they will also mingle with the crowd. The event will last until about 7 p.m. "I'm anxiously looking forward to it," Gill said of the event. "This will actually be my first chance to meet the voters in Meridian, and I'm looking forward to their questions." Ross said he was excited about the platform. "It is an opportunity to meet a large number of young professionals in a large place in Meridian," he said. "Meridian is critical in this election."

Harper in Meridian

WTOK - Harper Makes Meridian Stop - A Third district congressional candidate Gregg Harper campaigned in Meridian Thursday. Harper and some of his supporters spoke at a news conference at Union Station. Harper said Meridian will be his home away from home during the days leading up to an Apr. 1 run-off with Charlie Ross. The two got the most votes in a field of seven candidates in the Mar. 11 primary. "A great local support here. I can't tell you how much it meant not only to win my home county of Rankin County but to win Lauderdale County and lead the ticket over here was just an incredible blessing for us," said Harper. "And we thank everyone for that." Harper said he has picked up support another republican candidate who did not make the run-off, David Landrum. Both Harper and Ross will be the guests for WTOK's public affairs program, On the Record, Sunday, Mar. 23 at 5:30 p.m.

Meridian Star - Harper rallies supporters in Meridian - Gregg Harper, who is vying with Charlie Ross in a run-off for the 3rd Congressional District Republican nomination, visited Meridian yesterday, making a stop at Union Station to speak to friends and supporters and have some prominent members of the community speak on his behalf. Those who endorsed Harper included: Meridian clothier Harry Mayer, who said of Harper, "he'll always do the right thing,"; former Lauderdale County board of supervisors candidate Greg Mangum, who called Harper "religious" and "a true conservative"; and Pastor Carl White, who said that Harper is "as consistent as the sunrise. What you see is what you get." Additionally, Harper announced that his campaign had received a $1,000 contribution from Lieutenant Governor Phil Bryant, who defeated Charlie Ross in the Lt. Governor's race last year. Harper promised in his speech to protect Lauderdale County's military facilities, spoke of his faith and of his friends and families contributions to his campaign, and said of the campaign, "You're going to think that we live in Meridian by April 1, because I do believe this election is going to be won or lost in Lauderdale County." After his speech, Harper made an additional comment, "I was the first candidate to open an office in Meridian," presumably in response to Ross' new office on Front Street. Harper's office is located on 22nd avenue.

New Harper Spot

Gregg Harper - Values

Landrum Endorses Harper

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Over the past 5 months, I have campaigned throughout the entire 3rd Congressional District and spent time with some wonderful people. I have also had the opportunity to campaign with all the candidates who initially ran in the Republican Primary.

Throughout the Primary, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the character and motivation of each candidate. Now that we did not make it to the runoff, I believe I should let you know what I have seen on the campaign trail.

Throughout the debates, forums, and joint appearances, one of my opponents stood out of the crowd. This candidate has the convictions, passion, and the heart to serve the people of the 3rd District, which I think is vital for our next Congressman. This candidate has run a clean campaign and has refused to participate in the typical mudslinging or personal attacks used by other campaigns - either through television commercials or through word of mouth. I respect this candidate as a man of faith with a servant's heart.

That is why, in the Republican Runoff on April 1st, I am going to be supporting Gregg Harper for Congress and I humbly ask for your consideration to do the same. I have talked with Gregg about the issues that matter to me, and I feel confident he will address these issues as our next Congressman.

If you would like to help Gregg by volunteering for his campaign, donating to his campaign, or if you would just like more information, you can visit his website at www.greggharperforcongress.com or you can call his office at (601) 420.2211.

Again, thank you for your support during our campaign.

Sincerely,
David Landrum

Ledger Letters

Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - Consider Gregg Harper as 'our voice' in Washington - It is my pleasure to commend to the voters of the 3rd Congressional District an outstanding candidate for Congress. Gregg Harper is a man of intelligence and integrity. He is dedicated to his family, to his church, to his profession, and to this great country. Gregg and I share concerns about the moral, ethical, cultural, fiscal and security-related problems of our nation. I believe that he is committed to taking a stand for our conservative principles and to being an eloquent voice, a tireless worker, and a consistent voter in Congress. I hope readers will consider this outstanding citizen as our voice in Washington. - Roy J. Fountain, Forest

Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - Ross will best represent all residents of 3rd District - Charlie Ross is the best candidate for the 3rd Congressional District. Charlie is seeking to replace Chip Pickering, who is not seeking re-election. I urge readers to take a look at Charlie for this seat. He is a graduate of the Air Force Academy and a veteran, having flown with the Mississippi Air National Guard in Operation Desert Storm. Charlie is also a graduate of Harvard Law School and has served in the Mississippi legislature. Readers will find that he is for all the same good, conservative government that we identify with. Charlie is anti-illegal immigration and will fight to strengthen our military. His office will also be an advocate for military retirees' and veterans' issues. I would urge all who live in the 3rd District to vote for Charlie Ross. - Jim Whittington, Laurel

Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - We need Charlie Ross in 3rd Congressional District - I truly love my country and always take great pride in researching and selecting the best candidate to represent me, my children and my state in Washington. I have absolutely no doubt that Charlie Ross is the only candidate capable and prepared to serve us in the 3rd Congressional District seat being vacated by Chip Pickering. The runoff election is April 1, and citizens must go vote! Every single vote is important and each reader's vote for Ross will ensure that we send a true public servant to Congress. Ross' unequaled experience includes 11 years in the Mississippi Legislature, where he chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee, authored tort reform, Jessica's Law, Megan's Law and helped balance the state budget. I am secure in knowing that Charlie will promote strong national defense and strengthening the military. As an Air Force Academy graduate, he has served our country as a military veteran, a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and as Mississippi Air National Guard, Desert Storm active-duty pilot. Other crucial issues that are important to Ross are bringing jobs to Mississippi, lower taxes, economic growth, protecting our 2nd Amendment rights, securing our borders, making our cities safe and working as an advocate for veterans' affairs. The facts are crystal clear - Ross is the only candidate who actually has the experience to accomplish any of these goals. His extraordinary wife, Sharon, is a tremendous asset to Charlie. Please vote for Charlie Ross - the man we need in our U.S. Congress! - Jena Thompson, Meridian

Pro Harper Letter

Scott County Times - Letter to the Editor - Harper Will Uphold Conservative Principles - It is my pleasure to recommend to the voters of the third district an outstanding candidate for Congress. Gregg Harper is a man of intelligence and integrity. He is dedicated to his family, to his church, to his profession and to this great country. Gregg and I share concerns about the moral, ethical, cultural, fiscal and security-related problems of our nation. I believe that he is committed to taking a stand for our conservative principles and to being an eloquent voice, a tireless worker and a consistent voter in Congress. I hope you will consider this outstanding citizen as our voice in Washington. - Roy J. Fountain, Forest

Ross Opens Meridian HQ

WTOK - Ross Opens Campaign Headquarters - Former Mississippi state senator, Charlie Ross, opened his campaign headquarters in Meridian Tuesday. It's located at 2118 Front Street, near Jean's Restaurant. Ross says it's important that he have a major presence in Meridian during the run-up to the runoff. "This is a statement to the people of east Mississippi of how important I view Meridian and Lauderdale County and all of east Mississippi," said Ross. "I want to also say I'll have an office here in Meridian if I'm fortunate enough to be elected congressman." Ross' competitor in that race, Gregg Harper, also has a campaign headquarters in Meridian at the corner of 8th Street and 22nd Avenue, which he opened several weeks ago. The primary is Apr. 1.

Salter Blog: Harper Mo

ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - Harper's momentum growing? - A $500 per person/couple fundraiser for 3rd District congressional candidate Gregg Harper of Pearl will get underway this afternoon in downtown Jackson at the Electric Building. With Harper now facing first primary frontrunner and former Rankin County legislator Charlie Ross in the GOP second primary, it's likely that Harper's support from fans of Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant — and possibly from Bryant himself — will begin to manifest itself in the runoff showdown with Ross. Ross angered Bryant during their 2007 Republican primary tilt over what Bryant considered negative ads attacking Bryant. At any rate, there was no love lost between Bryant and Ross after that campaign despite Ross making an endorsement of Bryant in his general election race with former Democratic state Rep. Jamie Franks of Mooreville.

ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - 3rd District runoff: What to look for in the next 12 days... - In the 3rd Congressional District runoff election, first primary frontrunner Charlie Ross faces the dubious task of trying to hold his lead with reduced turnout and to pick up the support of his vanquished opponents. He faces that task with Republicans loyal to Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant now actively working against him — still stinging from the Bryant-Ross GOP primary in 2007. Many of David Landrum's supporters blame Ross, rightly or wrongly, for their candidate's problems in the first primary.Bryant attended Harper's Tuesday night $500 a person reception in downtown Jackson at the Electric Building.On the up side, Ross has the support of the Club For Growth. On the down side, CFG has a reputation for negative campaigning. Going negative is a highly risky strategy for Ross on several levels. While Ross will pick up the tort reform crowd in the runoff from other candidates, his appeal to other groups is limited.Gregg Harper will get the vast majority of evangelical Republican support. Supporters of David Landrum are far more likely to gravitate to Harper than to Ross. Harper has the superior ground game in Rankin County and as he showed in the first primary, in the rural areas of the district. Lauderdale County is vital in this matchup for Ross. A lower turnout is likely to favor Harper, who knows how to get his folks to the polls.Advantage? I think Harper is well-positioned to win this GOP runoff. He kept his campaign clean, worked his ground game and raised just enough money to stay on television. As evidenced by last night's reception, Harper's finding it easier to raise money in the second primary.

New Ross Spot: Veteran

Aaron Rice, an Iraq War Veteran, discusses the need for Charlie Ross, a Desert Storm Veteran, in Congress.



For more on the Marine in the spot, here is a speech he gave at the MRAP kickoff celebration for International Truck and Engine Co. in Westpoint, Mississippi. International began producing Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles for the United States Marine Corps in June of 2007.

From The Blogs

RightOfMississippi - Charlie Ross is the best candidate to represent the Third District - This blog has been reletively silent about the third district congressional race but now that the runoff is upon us we have a pretty obvious choice here between a tested and competent State Senator in Charlie Ross and a relatively unexperienced former county GOP chairman in Gregg Harper. While we don’t have a problem with Harper personally we find that he is most likely only in this situation not on his own merit but because of the implosion of the David Landrum Campaign. Ross has been through 2 tough primary battles in the last year, he is a known quantity and while not flashy he will be a solid and reliable replacement for outgoing Rep. Chip Pickering and a steady advocate for Mississippi in the complicated and intricate world of Washington D.C. politics. This blog wholeheartedly endorses Senator Charlie Ross in the April 1st runoff election. All the best Charlie, -ROM

TheStarBlog - Vote for anybody you want - Someone asked me today, "If you voted for someone in the primary, doesn't that mean you have to vote for them in November, too?" I want to let as many people as I possibly can know that the answer to that question is a big fat NO. Nope, not even, no, no, no. You are fully entitled to change your mind about a candidate between the primary and the general election, and in a general election you are also fully entitled to vote for candidates in as many different parties as you want. However, you cannot vote in the April 1st run-off between Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper if you voted on a Democratic ballot in the March 11th primary. This is because the run-off, which is between two Republicans, is an actually an extension of the primary. If you didn't vote at all on March 11th, you can still vote on April 1st. If you live in Lauderdale County and have questions about your eligibility to vote, call the circuit clerk's office at 601-482-9731. If you would like to learn more about the candidates, you can find info on all of them at www.votesmart.org. Check tomorrow's Star for a detailed story on who can and can't vote on April Fool's day. - Jennifer Jacob, Staff Writer jjacob@themeridianstar.com (UPDATE: Meridian Star - Voter Info: Who can vote April 1)

Ross Puts In $55,000

Charlie Ross has self-contributed $55,000 to his campaign for the run off in two weeks.

Roll Call: Runoffs Loom

Roll Call - Magnolia State Runoffs Loom - In the central Mississippi 3rd district, where Rep. Chip Pickering (R) is retiring at the end of this Congress, Pickens Alderman Joel Gill (D) will face the winner of the April 1 Republican runoff between state Sen. Charlie Ross and former Ranking County Republican Chairman Gregg Harper. In the crowded race, Ross, who was no doubt helped by the name recognition he built during a failed 2007 campaign for lieutenant governor, took 33 percent of the vote on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Harper edged out wealthy businessman David Landrum by about 1,800 votes to make the runoff with 28 percent.

Two weeks ago Landrum seemed to be a sure bet to make the runoff based on his strong media presence in the district that was funded by $545,000 of his own money. But a controversy, first stirred up by former Pickering aide John Rounsaville — who took just 10 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s primary — over whether Landrum voted in past state elections, took its toll on the businessman. The controversy turned into a firestorm. Late last week, Landrum lashed out at Rounsaville and Ross in a television spot that insinuated the two were involved in “dirty” campaign tactics.

Of the four top contenders in the race, Harper turned out to be the only candidate to avoid being caught up in the mudslinging that developed and his strong grassroots campaign allowed him to slip, somewhat under the radar, into the runoff.

In a head to head matchup with Ross, Harper won’t be under the radar any longer. But Harper does have a few things going for him in the runoff. First, by being able to avoid the Landrum voting record firestorm he might earn the endorsement of Landrum in the runoff. A spokesman for Landrum said Wednesday that any endorsement decision by Landrum wouldn’t be coming until next week at the earliest. Harper’s other asset is that he outperformed Ross in the district’s largest Republican stronghold, Rankin County, where both hail from. Harper took 38 percent of the vote in Rankin while Ross took 34 percent, according to the Clarion Ledger’s unofficial numbers.

Ross appears likely to continue to campaign on a message of experience, pointing to his 11 years in the Mississippi state legislature. “We’re going to try to continue to get our conservative message out,” said Ross communications director Kell Smith. “We did receive the most votes Tuesday. ... It’s always good to have more votes than the other guy.”

$2,119,435

Totals raised by the top four candidates before the primary election (includes contributions later refunded).

David Landrum $1,045,244
($485,000 of this was self-contributed)

Charlie Ross $593,946
(He has filed $14,600 in addition to that since the election)

Gregg Harper $246,865
(Includes a $20,000 self-contribution 6 days before the election)

John Rounsaville $233,380

The total raised by the top four candidates for the primary: $2,119,435

Marcy, Hatcher Endorse Ross

WTOK - Ross Gets Candidate Endorsements - Former state senator Charlie Ross Friday picked up the endorsements of Meridianites, Bill Marcy and Greg Hatcher. Those two men both ran against him in the primary, but were not among the top two in votes. They endorsed Ross during a news conference outside the Lauderdale County Courthouse. "They're conservatives like I am. They believe in the same pro-life, pro-second amendment, pro-jobs, pro-national defense agenda," said Ross. "I'm especially proud, because there were two candidates in this race from east Mississippi, specifically Meridian, and both of them have chosen to endorse me."

Meridian Star - More endorsements for Charlie Ross - Now that Greg Hatcher and Bill Marcy, the two Republican Meridianites who ran for the U.S. House in the 3rd Congressional District primary March 11, are out of the running for that seat, they have both given their endorsements to former opponent Charlie Ross. Ross will face Jackson area attorney Gregg Harper in an April 1 run-off election for the seat, which will be vacated by Chip Pickering at the end of term. Hatcher said at a press conference Friday that he chose to endorse Ross because of "the depth of knowledge and service he has given Mississippi." Marcy said he gave his endorsement because he feels Ross "comes with a mass amount of experience... He's done a lot of wonderful things for the state and Meridian.

The Gregg Harper campaign released the following statement in regard to Ross' endorsements: "Endorsements are certainly one of many aspects important to Gregg Harper's campaign. Next Thursday, March 20, we will also be announcing several significant endorsements for our campaign at a news conference in Meridian."

TheStarBlog notes that Gil Carmichael is also on board with Charlie Ross.

Ross v Harper

WTOK - Ross And Harper Move On To Runoff - Republican Party Officials haven't even finished certifying Tuesday's election results and they are already moving on to the run off. Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper will face each other in three weeks to determine the party nominee for the November General Election.

"You leave one and start another," said Sally Brown, Lauderdale County Republican Party Chair.

With Ross coming from Brandon and Harper from Pearl, Brown believes the two candidates could split the central Mississippi vote. This would make East Mississippi critical in the runoff.

"They will split the vote of the there so they want to get Lauderdale County and who ever gets is will probably win the election," said Brown.

After getting the most votes Tuesday night, former State Senator, Ross, says he is happy to be the leader. Wednesday steady campaigning resumed and Ross says Meridian is a focus. "I make a commitment to the people of Meridian you will see me a lot for the next three weeks, but when I win this seat I will be your congressman," said Ross.

Through the campaign, Harper, who is city prosecutor for the cities of Richland and Brandon, has said he wants to maintain a clean campaign and he now says he will continue that through the runoff. "We will continue to do our best to honor the Lord and we will continue to run a clean campaign and we will work until seven o'clock at night on April 1st," said Harper.

Ad Wars

WLBT - Ad Wars: Did Negative Ads Boomerang in Congressional Race? - Two candidates are headed to a runoff in the Republican race for the 3rd Congressional District. Former State Senator Charlie Ross received 33 percent of the vote. Attorney Gregg Harper drew 28 percent. That's not bad for two candidates who so far have chosen not to go negative in their advertising.

Harper says it was a decision he made from the beginning. "I know it helped. We had a number of people in that last week who said, we appreciate you didn't get in the middle of all that," he says.

Ross had run several attack ads against Phil Bryant last year in the race for Lieutenant Governor. He lost the race, so we asked him if he purposely shied away from negative campaigning this time around. He didn't answer the question directly. "The difference between me and my opponents in this race is, I have a record of performance in the legislature. That's the message I'm conveying to the public," he says.

This time, Ross was the target of a negative ad. Candidate David Landrum ran an ad which ironically points out Ross's prior negative ads didn't work. Landrum came in third in the current race.

John Rounsaville, who came in fourth, ran one of the highest profile ads, attacking Landrum's voting record. We asked Rounsaville about the effects of his ad campaign. He said "It helped Gregg Harper out a lot." We asked if he had any regrets about the ad campaign. He said he wouldn't have done anything differently. And regarding his political future, he said he's exploring his options.

And what about endorsements for the remaining candidates? Landrum says he will talk to some of his supporters, and then decide.

A spokesman for Congressman Chip Pickering, who is vacating the 3rd Congressional seat, says, "(The Congressman) has been neutral so far. We expect him to stay neutral".

Landrum Concedes

WTOK - Landrum Concedes District Three Race - One of the initial front runners in the district three congressional race, David Landrum, will not continue on in that race. Around 11 p.m. Tuesday, Landrum conceded the race, ending his first try at politics. The Madison County businessman spent several thousand dollars of his own money in the race. Many people point to negative campaign tactics by some of his opponents as Landrum's downfall. "In a sense, you almost feel -- in this world -- that you're back in elementary school where kids can be real rude and real mean. I understand why a lot of people wouldn't get into politics and not try this, but I have no regrets. Because I have thick skin, I can kind of let that stuff bounce off of me," said Landrum. Landrum hasn't ruled out a future campaign, but says for now he will be returning to his business.

Mississippi Perspective - David Landrum: Stupid Politician Tricks - As a general rule, I do not enjoy the misery of others. That said, there was some satisfaction in watching David Landrum’s political meltdown over the past few weeks. In watching him completely unravel, I wished for a new segment on David Letterman — Stupid Politician Tricks. Of course, Landrum denies being a politician. That’s crap. Up until two weeks ago, it appeared Landrum was poised to make a runoff with former Sen. Charlie Ross. Then came the voting “scandal”. Ironically, Ross and Gregg Harper — the duo now in the runoff — stayed quiet as former Pickering boy John Rounsaville led the attack on Landrum. No matter what he said, under no circumstance should he have fabricated evidence and lied about those signatures being his own, much less that of his wife. Landrum had run a textbook campaign. He used his considerable wealth and went to television early to build name recognition. He hit hot-button issues that played to his conservative base. He presented himself as a strong businessman with Christian convictions and a loving family. He was a political outsider wanting to reform D.C. for other Mississippians. Then he imploded. And, I watched on with a smile.

Jackson Jambalaya - Interesting discussion on Primerica - Over on Tigerdroppings.com we are having a discusson on Primerica, as it came up during the campaign due to David Landrum's involvement in the company. Interesting comments are made: http://www.tigerdroppings.com/rant/messagetopic.asp?p=7450161&pg=1#lp