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

Ross wins Madison

Madison County Journal - Ross wins county after mild turnout - While Republicans in the Third District congressional race favored Charlie Ross over two county residents, turnout was suprisingly high among Madison County Democrats in primary elections on Tuesday as Barack Obama outperformed his statewide numbers with 76 percent of the vote here, despite Hillary Clinton's surprise visit to Canton late last week.

Madison County Republicans favored Charlie Ross over Madison residents David Landrum and John Rounsaville in the Third District race. Ross finished with 3,220 votes, or 36.7 percent of all ballots cast, while Landrum finished with 2,710 votes or 30.9 percent of all votes. Gregg Harper came in third place in the county with 1,745 votes, or 19.9 percent, and John Rounsaville finished with 1,011 Madison County votes for 11.5 percent of ballots.

"I did well throughout the district, not only in Rankin County but in Madison County and elsewhere," Ross said. "With Republican voters, philosophy matters." He congratulated Harper, who surprised many by beating out Landrum, and called him a "strong candidate" in a "strong field" of Republicans.

Harper ran a grassroots campaign and spent the last week touring the district on a bus that Garth Brooks once owned. "Nobody kind of watching this race really thought we ever had a chance to ever make a run off," Harper said just before midnight. "But we knew it on the ground that we had the momentum that was growing and building for the last four or five weeks." Harper said he thought his recent 30-second television advertisement that showed his son Livingston, who has special needs because of "Fragile X" syndrome, really touched voters by giving them a glimpse into his family life.

Ross said despite the prognostications, he wasn't sure who could make it to the run-off with him. "I really didn't know who I would be in the run-off with," Ross said. "My focus was on getting into the run-off. I was confident I would be in the run-off."

A total of 8,768 votes in Madison County were cast in the Third District GOP primary that became controversial during the campaign's last few weeks, largely due to reports that Landrum had not voted in an election from 2000 to 2007.

Madison Purge Update

Madison County Journal - Change to voter rolls called into question - A county election commissioner accused of inappropriately moving over 10,000 voters from active to inactive status since the beginning of the year said she was simply doing her job. District 1 Election Commissioner Sue Sautermeister came under fire late last week when it was revealed she had been changing voters' status since the start of this year. Election Commission Chairman Kakey Chaney said this was done improperly.

Statistics indicate that there are several thousand more voters registered on the books than actual eligible voters. According to estimates from the 2006 U.S. Census, the county had a population of 87,419, but only 63,000 of those residents are over 18 and eligible to vote. As of March 7, there were 70,871 registered voters on the books, according to numbers provided by Circuit Clerk Lee Westbrook.

Sautermeister has said she will not resign from her position despite calls for her to do so, and has remained steadfast in her belief that the Election Commission has delayed cleaning up the voter rolls for far too long.

Westbrook said she had received a surprisingly low volume of calls from voters concerned about the issue over the past week. "Either people are not alarmed, or it's one of those things they'll think about on Election Day," she said last Friday. "Every one of us thought we would be bombarded."

Sautermeister admitted in an interview last week that "the timing may be off" because of Tuesday's federal election, but maintained that keeping the voter rolls clean should be a priority for Election Commission members. "This is part of our job, to keep the voter rolls clean," she said. "This is something we're supposed to be doing. The others knew I was doing it." She added that she believed there was a legal difference between making voters inactive and purging them from the books and had requested clarification from Hosemann's office before Wednesday.

Voters may be made inactive if these notification cards are not filled out and returned in 30 days. Inactive voters who do not vote in the two subsequent federal elections are purged from the voter rolls.

"It appears Sue Sautermeister inactivated voters but before sending the required notice to voters," Chaney told the supervisors on Monday. But Sautermeister countered that since the county had never undertaken such an effort before, it was unclear what the correct procedure should be for the county.

"We still don't know how the process works," she said, adding that some commissioners from other counties had told her that voters could be made inactive prior to notification cards being sent.

Westbrook said the commissioners had been collecting returned mail since they took office at the start of 2005 as the first step towards cleaning up the voter rolls.

The words "purged" and "inactive" had been used interchangeably but incorrectly over the past week, according to Westbrook, since purged voters are those who are deceased or those who have felony convictions that forbid them to vote.

Sautermeister said she hoped the situation would raise awareness of the county's ongoing problem with inflated voter rolls. Too many people, she said, are not voting in the correct precincts and should update their voter registration information whenever it is necessary.

Westbrook and Sautermeister differed about the status of Mississippi Third District congressional candidate David Landrum, a Madison County resident, whom Sautermeister made inactive. While Westbrook said she would not have inactivated Landrum and recently personally confirmed that Landrum was a county resident who had recently moved, Sautermeister said her decision was correctly based on pieces of returned mail.

Ross, Harper in Run Off

ClarionLedger.com564 of 565 Precincts Reporting - 99%

GOP
Ross, Charlie 21,999 33%
Harper, Gregg 18,657 28%
Landrum, David 16,831 26%
Rounsaville, John 6,840 10%
Hatcher, Gregory 727 1%
Broadwater, James 420 1%
Marcy, Bill GOP 1%

DEM
Gill, Joel 42,925 53%
Eads, Randy 37,339 47%

Club for Growth: Ross, Rounsaville, Landrum

Club for Growth - Today's Election in MS-03 - Club members and supporters might be interested in tracking the results of today's GOP primary race in Mississippi's 3rd congressional district. This is an open seat left by the retiring Rep. Chip Pickering. There are seven candidates on the ballot, but here are the serious contenders:

Charlie Ross
John Rounsaville
David Landrum

The winner of this primary will need to get above 50%. Otherwise, he will go into a run-off scheduled for April 1st against the second-place finisher. Election results should be available here and here shortly after the polls close at 8pm EDT.

The Candidates

WLBT - Crowded 3rd Congressional District Race - Nine men are running for the 3rd District Congressional seat left vacant by Chip Pickering. Seven Republicans and two Democrats are vying for your vote to fill Mississippi's 3rd District Congressional seat. We will start with the Democrats, Randy Eads and Joel Gill.

Eads lives in Starkville and owns a real estate investment company. To promote low unemployment rates and business growth, he would lower taxes for the middle class and introduce legislation requiring a minimum wage increase every two years.

Gill is a Pickens alderman and also works as a cattle broker. He believes illegal immigration is the greatest threat to our country. Gill wants employers who hire undocumented workes should face sizable penalties.

As for the Republicans, James Broadwater stands out from his opponents as the only candidate who wants to do away with the IRS and the income tax. Broadwater lives in Flowood and is a state government employee.

Rankin county attorney Gregg Harper lives in Pearl. He calls illegal immigration the "red meat" issue he will focus on. Harper also pledges to help children with special needs. Gregory Hatcher is a Meridian native. In office he pledges to focus on increased research and development for alternative energy sources.

Hatcher wants to create jobs and build wealth for people in the district. Bill Marcy served as a military police platoon sergeant with the national guard. The Madison resident says national security is his number one priority.

David Landrum has been in the news lately defending his voting record. One of his opponents John Rounsaville accuses landrum of not voting in the last seven years. Landrum says he has voted in the 2003 and 2007 statewide elections. The Air Force and US Army veteran, supports improving pay and benefits for the men and women in the armed forces.

Rounsaville is a Mississippi state graduate and served as Deputy Chief of staff for Congressman Chip Pickering. He then served as a policy advisor for Governor Haley Barbour. Rounsaville believes we need to win the war on terror by supporting our military in Iraq.

Charlie Ross recently ran for the Leuitenant Governor seat. Now the former State Senator from district 20 hopes to make a difference in Congress. The gulf war veteran wants to protect mississippi's military bases and opposes tax increases.

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Meridian Star - Candidates face off - James Broadwater: He took the restaurant campaign route Monday, visiting eateries in the Jackson Metro Area such as the Golden Corral in Flowood and AJ's Seafood Grill in Ridgeland. He plans to stay home and await results today.

Randy Eads: On Monday, Eads attended a Barack Obama rally in Columbus and had plans to speak at a Hillary Clinton event in Natchez. Today, he said he will continue to travel the district, campaigning at polling places, and will await election results at his home in Starkville.

Joel Gill: He said he will spend today the same way he spent Monday — traveling the district and dropping in on municipal officials and past supporters, and trying to get his message out to anyone he happens to encounter. On Monday, he also attended a Barack Obama rally in Columbus.

Gregg Harper: He spent the last week on a bus tour of the Third District, visiting almost every county in which he is on the ballot. Today, he plans to campaign by making phone calls, especially in the Rankin County area. He will await election results at the Hilton Hotel on County Line Road in Jackson — a gathering that is open to the public.

Greg Hatcher: He campaigned by making phone calls Monday, and has the same plans for today.

David Landrum: He campaigned around the district Monday, talking to everyone from radio stations to random restaurant patrons to try to drum up more support in the last hours of his campaign. Today, he had plans for an early morning speech to exercising voters at a health club, and will hold public a gathering at the Agriculture Museum on Lakeland Drive in Jackson at 8 p.m. to await election results.

Bill Marcy: He spent Monday trying to talk to as many people as possible by going door-to-door, and put flyers in windshields while he was at it. He plans to do the same thing today, and said he will campaign until the polls close tomorrow at 7 p.m.

Charlie Ross: He campaigned in Meridian Monday, visiting Naval Air Station Meridian and the National Guard Base. Today he will be out and about in the Jackson Metro area, meeting people, visiting restaurants, and his volunteers will be holding up campaign signs. He will await election results from a public gathering at the Sports Hall of Fame on Lakeland Drive in Jackson.

John Rounsaville: He has been traveling the district politicking at restaurants, and plans to go to polling places district-wide today to try and get more votes just moments before voters make up their minds.

Ross in Meridian

WTOK - Ross Tours Meridian Military Bases - One of the candidates, Charlie Ross, spent Monday in Meridian. He toured both NAS Meridian and the National Guard base. Ross said the military will be high on his agenda if elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. "I wanted to let people know that it is important to me," said Ross. "And if I'm so fortunate to be elected, it will be a major priority keeping the bases here in Meridian. They are economic engines here in the community and they're good for the country." If elected, Ross said he would keep a permanent district office here.

From The Blogs

Jackson Jambalaya - Why should we listen to Mary Hawkins-Butler? - Considering she endorsed and promoted a Democrat in last fall's election, why should Republicans listen to her when it comes to voting in the Republican primary for replacing Chip Pickering tomorrow? [Note: MHB is for DL]

Andy Taggart - Here's my scorecard for tomorrow - Third District GOP Congressional Primary - David Landrum has been in trouble for three weeks, and in freefall for nearly two weeks. The only question I have heard from observers is whether he has fallen far enough to fall all the way out of a run-off. I believe he has. Although I think there could be less than five percentage points distance between the top three vote getters, I think Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross will come out on top and meet again in three weeks.

Marshall Ramsey - Remember to vote - Remember to vote tomorrow. In fact, tomorrow's election is so important, that even David Landrum will vote (sorry, I couldn't resist.)

Ledger Blogs: Harper, Eads

ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - Gregg Harper's ground game is already hard at work - Rankin County attorney Gregg Harper, the Republican 3rd District congressional candidate who has been outspect by David Landrum and Charlie Ross is gaining ground in the waning days of the election. His ground game — a concentrated, organized GOTV effort that Harper has successfully utilized to help other Republicans do well in Rankin County in the past has now been deployed on his behalf. If there is a dark horse on the GOP side of this race, it is Harper. Landruma nd Ross have the clear money lead — outspending Harper by three and two times respectively. But Harper has people networking mightily on his behalf. In a primary, that could be significant.

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ClarionLedger.com - Student Blog - Eads....Leads!!! - The third congressional district race will prove to be an exciting contest in the fall; however, if Mississippians want a true Democrat on the ticket (as compared to two Republicans)...there is only one choice: Randy Eads. Eads, unlike his opponent, is a Mississippi native and is well aware of the issues that are impotant to the people of the third district. Randy is a major supporter of all levels of education from early childhood to post graduate college studies. His solutions for our failing system include ending the No Child Left Behind mandate and focusing on recruiting and retaining the best Mississippi teachers available while funneling our investments in high growth sectors of the state. Randy Eads knows the economy. He received a bachelors degree at the University of Tennessee studying the system. Eads supports returning to a system of fiscal responsibility and taking the steps needed to balance the budget. But, if your not voting on the issues and your in favor of change and experiance...Eads would provide both. Eads has triple the education of his rival, twice the experiance, and solutions to every problem faced by Mississippi voters. His opponent only highlights the problems and offers no promise to fellow Mississippians other than to step aside if the voters are not satisfied in two years. Personally, I do not think Mississippi can afford to grant a candidate two years to prove his worth...on Tuesday vote for the candidate that believes in Mississippi...vote for the candidate ready to lead Mississippi...vote Randy Eads for the Third Congressional District...it's common sense for common goals!!!

CQ on Mississippi 3

CQpolitics - Mississippi Primary to Fix GOP Favorites for Open House Seats - A total of seven Republicans will appear on Tuesday’s 3rd District ballot and will likely split the vote to such a degree that a runoff will be required.

David Landrum, a wealthy financial services businessman, is heavily self-financing his campaign. He passed the $1 million mark in total receipts last week when he put more than $500,000 in personal funds into his campaign treasury. Landrum’s big bankroll has enabled him to run a major advertising campaign in the district and increase his name ID. It has also made him a target. Landrum recently was in local headlines over his past political alliances. It was revealed that Landrum donated money during the 2003 race for governor to both Democrat Musgrove, then the incumbent and now Wicker’s Senate challenger, and Republican Barbour, who ended up winning the race. When pressed about how he voted that year, Landrum said he backed Barbour. His campaign then released documentation showing Landrum and his wife’s signatures in the voter sign-in books for that election. Later, Landrum said the signatures were not valid after their authenticity was called into question by the Clarion-Ledger, but Landrum maintains he and his wife did vote in that election.

Landrum is just one of several candidates whom local Republicans say make up the top tier of the field. He is joined by former state Sen. Charlie Ross, who has a statewide profile owing to his unsuccessful 2007 run for lieutenant governor. The Clarion Ledger endorsed Ross over the past weekend, noting his experience in the legislature as well as his military service during the Persian Gulf War in the early 1990s. “Ross can be effective on the first day he goes to Washington,” said the endorsement.

Ross and Landrum, though, face strong competition from John Rounsaville, a former state rural development director for the U.S. Deparment of Agriculture and a former aide to both Barbour and Pickering, and Gregg Harper, the former GOP chairman in heavily Republican Rankin County in suburban Jackson.

Another Anti Landrum Youtube Spot

You Would Rather Lose with Character Than Play Games

MagnoliaPoliticos Hits Landrum for RoboCalls

From MagnoliaPoliticos - Magnoliapoliticos@gmail.com announced that the first major YouTube video in Mississippi that looks-professionally produced was released to the American public today. The video was constructed after the Landrum campaign ignored an inquiry for more than 24 hours regarding the legality of their unsolicited blast-phone calls, which never included a disclaimer regarding whom paid or authorized these unwanted political calls. Magnoliapoliticos@gmail.com follows all FEC guidelines. It is exempt from FEC regulation since it is using the power of email, other's blogging abilities, and YouTube on its own free time without the instruction, knowledge, or authorization from any candidate or party including but not limited to their respective committees. This is America, folks, and we are allowed to speak freely. Thank God for our Constitution."

Ross, Rounsaville campaign in Jackson

WLBT - Charlie Ross Campaigns on Horseback - The campaign trail turned into a horse trail for one congressional candidate. In Brandon Saturday morning, Charlie Ross teamed with his wife Sharon and some campaign workers to canvass the Crossgates neighborhood on horseback. Ross is a Republican candidate for the Third Congressional District. Their goal is to meet more constituents and encourage people to vote in the primary on Tuesday. "I'm excited about this election, I hope everyone will go vote. It's so important to vote, it's a privilege, a responsibility, and I just encourage everyone to go vote."

WLBT - Rounsaville Campaign Hits Jackson Area - John Rounsaville supporters visited Capital City voters Saturday. Volunteers carrying yard signs and hangers knocked on doors in Belhaven. Rounsaville is a Republican hoping to fill Chip Pickering's vacant congressional seat. The Mississippi State alum served as a top aide to Governor Haley Barbour and Congressman Chip Pickering. Supporters hope their face to face time with voters will make a difference. Rounsaville volunteer, Brian Berry had this to say: "personal endorsement is the most powerful tool in politics today, and so we're doing that, door to door. We're going up and saying 'Hey, I'm from Belhaven,' and going to my neighbors and saying, 'I'm voting for John Rounsaville, and I hope you do too." Volunteers for Rounsaville are also canvassing neighborhoods today in Meridian and Starkville.

Landrum Self-Contributes Another $15,000

David Landrum self-contributed another $15,000 to his campaign which brings his total self-funding to $545,000.

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Jere Nash Blog - Third Congressional District Finances - Once candidates for federal office filed their pre-primary campaign finance reports a couple of weeks ago, they are required to disclose any major contributions within 48 hours to the FEC. Totaling up those 48-hour reports, in the Third District, Charlie Ross has raised $207,346, way ahead of his competitors. Landrum reports $66,300 in recent contributions, while Rounsaville has $54,000 to report and Harper $44,500. On the other hand, Landrum has dumped another $135,000 of his own money into the race, bringing that total to $545,000. And Harper put $20,000 of his own money into the campaign. From looking at all of the reports, it appears that by the end of the primary, Landrum will have spent right at $1 million on the campaign; Ross will have spent almost $700,000; and Harper and Rounsaville will each have spent about a quarter of a million dollars. We'll know by tomorrow night if Harper's political networks can overcome this financial disparity or if Landrum's spending can compensate for all the negative publicity he's received.

Ledger Online Letters

Rounsaville Best to Represent Third District - Jo McCormick, Newton

David Landrum Is The Right Choice - Chip Estes, Flora

Eads The Man for the Job - E. Patterson, Ellisville

Charlie Ross is the Most Qualified - Barbara Vanlandingham, Caledonia

Rounsaville Right Choice for Congress - Mike Hurst, Madison

David Landrum distorted truth - B.J. Cougle, Starkville

I'm For David Landrum - Kevin Macdonald, Jackson

Landrum Should Come Clean - Mike Hurst, Madison

Ledger Endorses Ross

Clarion Ledger - Endorsement: Ross - In the 3rd Congressional District, Pickens alderman and businessman Joel Gill is the best choice in the Democratic primary. He enunciates a clear vision that has resonated across the expansive district and has run the most credible, active campaign.

In the Republican primary in the 3rd District, former state Sen. Charlie Ross of Brandon has emerged from a strong field of candidates as the most experienced legislator and the candidate who offers the very credible ability to hit the ground running in representing the 3rd District's interests. On balance, Ross outpaces the GOP field in offering maturity, experience and a record of solid accomplishment in the Legislature.

Ross served in Desert Storm and understands perhaps better than any Republican candidate in the 3rd District race the challenges the nation faces in the wars on terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan. That experience uniquely qualifies him to carry on legendary U.S. Rep. G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery's service to America's veterans, Guardsmen and Reservists.

Ross can be effective on the first day he goes to Washington.

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Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - Ross will quickly get job done in Congress - We have a critical national office to fill and we can't afford to send an inexperienced person to represent Mississippi. This office is a two-year term that will require over a year for an inexperienced individual to become effective with his duties. Soon after he really gets indoctrinated, he has to plan and work and speak to assure his election for another two years. If we elect Charlie Ross, we will have a U.S. representative who will know immediately how to get the necessary programs done. He has proven this by his successful work done on tort reform. Our state has begun to see the results of what we are receiving from passage of this important legislation. Industries have started to consider and are coming to our state. This means more and better paying jobs for our people. The medical profession is no longer leaving our state or considering early retirement. We have the "castle doctrine" which helps us protect our homes. We can thank Charlie for this. We need a representative to work for our military. Who is better qualified for this job than a graduate from the Air Force Academy plus active duty with the Air Force in North Dakota? Then he flew C-141 Aircraft with the Mississippi Air National Guard in the Desert Storm conflict. Think of the contacts with important people that he has known at the Air Force Academy and the regular Air Force. He has also made important friends while receiving his law degree from Harvard Law School. Charlie had a lot to do to get and expedite the four-lane highway over the Ross Barnett Reservoir spillway plus many other accomplishments while in the Mississippi House and Senate. I will admit that he has good people running against him, but none can get started as soon as he arrives in Washington like Charlie. He knows how the political world works and how to get results. - Howard Richardson, Brandon

My Analysis of David Landrum's Vote*

My Analysis of David Landrum's Vote*

1) John Rounsaville produced evidence indicating David Landrum had not voted after the 2000 general election or before the 2007 general election. Now the burden of proof is on David Landrum.

2) David Landrum produced records he said showed he attempted to cast a ballot in the 2003 primary and general by affidavit. After a Clarion Ledger investigation, it was found those were not his signatures, something David Landrum eventually admitted. So he has no proof he attempted to vote.

3) John Rounsaville's campaign further demonstrated that David Landrum was not registered to vote in Hinds County in 2003. So even if he had tried to cast a ballot (which he could not prove even that) it would not have been accepted. He could not, thus he did not, vote.

4) David Landrum next claimed someone stole his ballot and pointed to Pete Perry, John Rounsaville's treasurer, as someone who was in the record room. However, Pete Perry went to the records room in response to the Landrum Campaign's release of their now admitted false proof. Perry went to verify the documents Landrum released. That means the Landrum Campaign was in the record room first. The Landrum Campaign removed records and copied them. If absentee ballots are missing (ballots which would prove the signatures on the sign-in were not David Landrum's signatures), then perhaps as the first ones in the room, the Landrum Campaign "misplaced" them.

5) But the key here is, how do we know ballots are missing? We know because there are fewer ballots in the box than names on the sign-in sheet. But the Landrum Campaign has acknowledged none of the signatures on the sign-in sheet belong to David Landrum. Therefore, if no ballots were missing, if all the ballots were there, if there was a ballot for every signature...there would still be no ballot belonging to David Landrum, because he has no signature on the roll for such a ballot to correspond to.

Conclusion: In the final analysis, there is evidence David Landrum did not vote. There is no evidence he did vote. There is no evidence stolen or missing that could show he voted, because that evidence (the voter roll) is still in the record room and it still says, David Landrum did not vote.

(*Thanks for the emails pro and con that helped to make this case.)

Nash on Landrum

ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash - David Landrum & Politicians - Well, there he was again today. David Landrum. On the front page of the Clarion-Ledger. Declaring to all the world that he was “not a politician.” This has been a theme of Landrum’s throughout the campaign – denigrating the very profession he’s trying to join. If David Landrum were in medical school, he’d be saying, “I’m here, but I’m not a doctor.” By definition, those who seek public office are politicians. Can you imagine Landrum walking up to Haley Barbour, sticking out his hand, and saying, “Hi. I’m David Landrum. I’m a candidate for Congress. But I’m not a politician.” Say what you want to about Haley Barbour’s choice of party or his positions on the public policy issues of the day, you have to admire his ability to practice the profession of politics. The irony, of course, is that the way in which Landrum has handled his contribution to Ronnie Musgrove or his prior voting record is just the way a David Landrum caricature of a “politician” would act. A real politician knows that the only currency that matters is honesty.

Rounsaville Campaigns in Meridian

WTOK - Rounsaville Campaigns in Meridian - An important congressional race is on the ballot in Mississippi's third district. John Rounsaville, a former aide to Cong. Chip Pickering, visited Friday, at Jean's restaurant in downtown Meridian.

"What I'm sharing with voters across the district, with Congressman Pickering, and also as policy advisor to Governor Barbour, I spent the last ten years serving this district and Lauderdale County," said Rounsaville. "That's the message I'm getting out to voters, is experience. "

Ledger: Barbour attacks Landrum

Clarion Ledger - Neutral no more: GOP attacks one of its own - Landrum trying to divert attention, RNC rep says of voting flap - On Friday, Mississippi's representative to the Republican National Committee, Henry Barbour — who had been neutral in the race - opened fire on fundraising frontrunner David Landrum after Landrum suggested a long-time GOP worker may have stolen Landrum's affidavit ballot in the 2003 Republican primary in Hinds County.

In an e-mail to Republicans, Barbour accused Landrum of "attacking the 'foot soldiers' of the party in an effort to move the focus off of him. ... If he makes the runoff, I would not be surprised to see him effectively try to purchase our nomination. I hope y'all will join me in working to make sure that does not happen."

Landrum - who has raised nearly $1 million, much of it his own money - responded Friday: "I grew up in Jones County, where I learned to stand up for myself. And that is what I'm going to do. I am not a politician, but I understand that Republicans are going to support different candidates in this race, but I believe this has gone to a new low."

The brouhaha began a few weeks back when fellow candidate John Rounsaville said Landrum hadn't voted in seven years. Landrum responded he and his wife, Jill, had voted for Gov. Haley Barbour in every election they could since 2003 and pointed to signatures in the Hinds County voters register as proof. But The Clarion-Ledger discovered two signatures he said were his wife's actually belonged to other people.

Two days later, Landrum's campaign said none of the signatures belonged to the couple and that the news release was sent out "without David's knowledge and approval. It never occurred to either David or Jill to verify the signatures. David accepts responsibility for an honest mistake."

Landrum and his wife have said they voted by affidavit ballot in 2003 in Hinds County in both the Republican primary and general election. Some of the affidavit ballots are missing from the August 2003 primary for Precinct 78, and Landrum insists the couple's votes are among those missing. But Hinds County election officials say anyone who votes must sign the voter register. And no signatures appear to match Landrum's or his wife's.

Landrum's campaign raised questions about the possibility of tampering by releasing an affidavit from Pat Wilson, a machine specialist working with the Hinds County Election Commission. Wilson said Pete Perry, treasurer for the congressional campaign for John Rounsaville, was in the room by himself for more than an hour with 2003 Republican primary election records. After Perry left, Wilson said he noticed three boxes containing the records "were not located where they had been neatly stacked, and they could not be easily located because they were mixed in with many other boxes in the room containing other election records." Perry said Friday he was alone with the records for maybe 10 minutes and was joined by David Ross, son of candidate Charlie Ross, in examining 2003 election records. They found no evidence the couple had voted, Perry said. He acknowledged he didn't restack the boxes as they were before because "they didn't seem to be in any particular order" but denied taking any documents. The handful of affidavit ballots missing now were missing then, he said.

What happened in Madison County to Landrum and his wife could soon be part of the Justice Department investigation. An election commissioner moved more than 10,000 names from the voting rolls from active to inactive, including those of Landrum and his wife.

Jim Herring, chairman of the Mississippi Republican Party, said his role is to not get involved in the primary: "I always take serious Reagan's 11th commandment: Thou shall not speak ill of a fellow Republican." As for the purging, Herring said, "We're not going to know all the answers before the March 11 primary, but sooner or later the facts will come out as to who did what." He called the race so far "a black eye for the party." Instead of focusing on real issues, the campaign has deteriorated, he said. "I think it's a legitimate issue whether a person voted in the past. The whole thing has become an unfortunate episode that damages the party. Our goal is to elect somebody who will win the war, restore the economy for the benefit of our people and preserve the values that Republicans stand for."

Landrum Attacks Ross, Rounsaville in TV spot

So much for running a positivie campaign. David Landrum proves he is a politician. Now we know where his latest $60,000 self-contribution went.

Last week Jill Landrum said in a campaign email: "I am amazed at how many people have offered me 'dirt' and I mean REAL DIRT on our opponents. I can tell you this… I would rather lose with character than win through mud slinging and playing dirty political tricks."