For Immediate Release: February 2, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Senator Rand Paul to Address CPAC 2012
Online registration for attendees and media ends February 3

 WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R – KY) will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  ACU also today announced invited speaker Congressman Ron Paul (TX – 14) will be unable to attend CPAC 2012 due to the travel constraints of his Presidential campaign.

 “Senator Rand Paul is one of America’s most powerful advocates for small government, more freedom and traditional values. While we will miss Congressman Ron Paul, a perennial favorite among our attendees, we are honored to host Senator Rand Paul, a leader of the next generation of committed constitutional conservatives, at CPAC 2012,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Next week, the American Conservative Union will host 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Senator Rand Paul, M.D., lives in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where he owned his own ophthalmology practice and performed eye surgery for 18 years. In 1995, Rand founded the Southern Kentucky Lions Eye Clinic, an organization that provides eye exams and surgery to needy families and individuals. Senator Paul is the author of the best-selling book, The Tea Party Goes to Washington. He is scheduled to participate in a book signing event at CPAC, and more details will be available soon.

 Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  You can now view the full CPAC 2012 Agenda at www.cpac.org.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Andrew Breitbart, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Michael Medved, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal, Bob McDonnell, Rick Perry, Rick Scott and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly.

Please note: online registration for media and blogger credentials for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so register today at www.cpac.org.  All bloggers wishing to receive credentials must register by February 3.

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For Immediate Release: February 1, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Governor Bob McDonnell to Address CPAC 2012
Annual Conservative Political Action Conference Highlights Leading Conservative Governors

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  CPAC will highlight several of America’s leading chief state executives, including Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, Texas Governor Rick Perry, Florida Governor Rick Scott and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker.

“Governor McDonnell’s leadership in Virginia is evidence that conservative solutions work. His successful agenda for job creation, economic development, education reform and innovation in government provides a stark contrast to President Obama’s failed liberal policies. We are honored to welcome Governor McDonnell to CPAC 2012,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “In less than two weeks, the American Conservative Union will host 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

 Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  The full agenda is now available online at www.cpac.org.

 CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Andrew Breitbart, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Michael Medved, former Senator Rick Santorum and more.

 The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly.

 Please note: online registration for media and blogger credentials for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so register today at www.cpac.org.  All bloggers wishing to receive credentials must register by February 3.

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For Immediate Release: January 31, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces British MEP Daniel Hannan to Address CPAC 2012
Full CPAC 2012 Agenda Now Online

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced British MEP Daniel Hannan will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. Daniel Hannan is a writer and journalist, and has been Conservative MEP for South East England since 1999. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  The full CPAC 2012 Agenda is now available at www.cpac.org.

“Daniel Hannan is a courageous voice in England and across Europe for more freedom and smaller government. He has also sounded the warning bell for Americans on the dangerous path President Obama is leading our nation down when it comes to imitating European policies – from healthcare to entitlements to taxes. We are honored to welcome Daniel Hannan to the United States for CPAC 2012,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Next week, the American Conservative Union will host 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  You can now view the full CPAC 2012 Agenda at www.cpac.org.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Andrew Breitbart, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Michael Medved, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal, Rick Scott, Rick Perry and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly.

Please note: online registration for media and blogger credentials for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so register today at www.cpac.org.  All bloggers wishing to receive credentials must register by February 3.

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For Immediate Release: January 30, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Texas Governor Rick Perry to Address CPAC 2012
ACU Releases Full CPAC 2012 Agenda Online Today

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced former Presidential candidate and Texas Governor Rick Perry will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  The ACU today also published online the full CPAC 2012 Agenda, now available at www.cpac.org.

“Through an agenda built on tax and spending cuts and pro-growth policies, Governor Rick Perry has made Texas a leader in job creation and economic development while serving as a national voice for preserving states’ rights. We are honored to host Governor Perry at CPAC 2012,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Next week, the American Conservative Union will host 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  You can now view the full CPAC 2012 Agenda, released today, at www.cpac.org.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Andrew Breitbart, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Michael Medved, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal, Rick Scott and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly.

Please note: online registration for media and blogger credentials for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so register today at www.cpac.org.  All bloggers wishing to receive credentials must register by February 3.

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For Immediate Release: January 30, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Applauds Advancement of Anti-Restrictive Ticketing Legislation in Minnesota
ACU Calls on Minnesota State Legislature to Protect Property Rights and Foster Market Competition

WASHINGTON, DC – American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today issued the following statement applauding the advancement of anti-restrictive ticketing in Minnesota. H.F. 657 and S.F. 425 are now scheduled for hearings in the Minnesota House Commerce and Regulatory Reform Committee and the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee in the coming days. The legislation is sponsored by Minnesota State Senator Chris Gerlach (R) and State Representative Joe Hoppe (R).

“The American Conservative Union strongly supports H.F. 657 and S.F. 425, companion bills protecting competition and ticketholders’ rights in the live event ticketing market.

“Ticketholders are threatened by restrictive ticketing – a concerted effort to extend monopolies and radically restrict what consumers can do with the tickets they buy. The ACU was founded to preserve freedom and conservatives across the country understand the importance of protecting individual property rights and a free and open market.

“On behalf of our tens of thousands of members and supporters in Minnesota, we applaud Senator Gerlach’s and Representative Hoppe’s efforts on this issue and encourage both committees to pass this important legislation. We look forward to engaging in the legislative process throughout the coming weeks.”

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC, the Conservative Political Action Conference, in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Join us for CPAC 2012, February 9 – 11, by registering today at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: January 27, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Florida Governor Rick Scott to Address CPAC 2012
39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference Highlights Leading Conservative Governors

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Florida Governor Rick Scott will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. CPAC will highlight several of America’s leading chief state executives, including Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker.

“Governor Rick Scott is making good on his campaign promises and restoring effective conservative leadership to the Sunshine State. His focus on job creation, economic development and shrinking the size and scope of government is paying off for Floridians, especially those suffering under President Obama’s disastrous economic policies,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “In less than two weeks, the American Conservative Union will host 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Andrew Breitbart, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Michael Medved, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973. Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly.

Please note: online registration for media and blogger credentials for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so register today at www.cpac.org. All bloggers wishing to receive credentials must register by February 3.

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For Immediate Release: January 26, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

Michael Medved to Be a Featured Speaker at CPAC 2012
ACU Prepares to Host 39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Michael Medved will speak at and broadcast live from CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference.  America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  The host of “The Michael Medved Show,” is also a New York Times bestselling author.

“Michael Medved is one of America’s most powerful conservative media personalities and an inspiring and thought provoking leader who impacts the views of millions of conservatives each day. We are honored to announce Michael’s participation at CPAC this year,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Next month, CPAC 2012 will be the nation’s premier event for showcasing conservative principles, policies and leaders.”

Michael Medved is a nationally syndicated radio talk show host, reaching more than 200 stations across the country and an audience of 4 million weekly. For more than a decade, he has ranked on the Talkers Magazine list of the top ten political talks shows in the United States. Medved has written 12 nonfiction books, including the recent bestsellers The 10 Big Lies about America and The 5 Big Lies about American Business. He is also a regular contributor to The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and is a weekly columnist for Newsweek/The Daily Beast.

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – fall celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Andrew Breitbart, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly.

Please note: online registration for media and blogger credentials for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so register today at www.cpac.org. All bloggers wishing to receive credentials must register by February 3.

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For Immediate Release: January 25, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

 ACU Announces Speaker John Boehner, Senator Mitch McConnell to Address CPAC 2012
ACU Preparing to Host 39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives John Boehner and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will both address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. 

“Following President Obama’s State of the Union address last evening, it is clear the Administration and liberals in Congress would rather play politics and ignite class warfare than tackle the real challenges facing our nation and our economy. I’m pleased to welcome Speaker Boehner and Senator McConnell to CPAC to share the latest on efforts to defeat the Obama Agenda in the Senate and House this year,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “In less than one month, the American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Andrew Breitbart, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Colonel Oliver North, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly.

Please note: online registration for media and blogger credentials for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so register today at www.cpac.org.  All bloggers wishing to receive credentials must register by February 3.

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For Immediate Release: January 23, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

Andrew Breitbart to Be a Featured Speaker at CPAC 2012
One of America’s Biggest Conservative Media Stars Returns to CPAC

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Andrew Breitbart will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference.  America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. 

“Andrew Breitbart is one of the most influential conservative media voices in America today, and we are honored to welcome him back to CPAC. From founding and publishing some of the leading conservative news and opinion sites to his news-breaking coverage of liberal scandals, Andrew is one of the brightest and most exciting stars in the conservative movement today,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas.  “Next month, the American Conservative Union is proud to host CPAC 2012 – the nation’s premier event for showcasing conservative principles, policies and leaders.”

Andrew Breitbart is publisher of the news portals Breitbart.com and Breitbart.tv. In January 2009, Breitbart broke the ACORN child sex trafficking scandal, and in 2011, Breitbart broke the “Weinergate” scandal that lead to the resignation of New York Representative Anthony Weiner.   Additionally, Andrew Breitbart is a two-time best-selling author.  He co-wrote Hollywood, Interrupted. His new book, Righteous Indignation: Excuse Me While I Save the World!, also a New York Times bestseller, is in stores now.

”As the battle is waged within the Republican Party over who will lead the charge against President Barack Obama and the radical left’s hostile takeover of America,” Breitbart said, “we cultural and political combatants within the conservative movement must come together to find common cause. There is nothing wrong with fighting each other, openly and freely, about the great ideas of our time. But never before has party and movement unity been so important. I look forward to speaking at CPAC as a symbol that even our most seasoned warriors must seek peace with those we have vigorously challenged.”

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Oliver North, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: January 20, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Phyllis Schlafly to Address CPAC 2012
ACU Preparing to Host 39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Phyllis Schlafly, founder and president of Eagle Forum, will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. 

“Phyllis Schlafly is a trailblazer and icon of the conservative movement in America, tirelessly advocating for the preservation of the traditional values shared by our founding fathers. We are pleased she will join thousands of our fellow conservatives for CPAC 2012,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “In less than one month, the American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congressman Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Colonel Oliver North, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly. Online registration for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so reserve your space today at www.cpac.org.    

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For Immediate Release: January 20, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain to Address CPAC 2012
ACU Preparing to Host 39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

 WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced former Presidential candidates U.S. Congresswoman Michele Bachmann and Herman Cain will both be featured speakers at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. 

“We are proud to welcome Michele Bachmann and Herman Cain to CPAC 2012 next month in our Nation’s Capital. Congresswoman Bachmann is one of the House Chamber’s fiercest advocates for constitutional conservatism, and Herman Cain remains a favorite among many of our supporters across the country. Both are great additions to our exciting CPAC agenda,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “In less than one month, the American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, Colonel Oliver North, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governors Bobby Jindal and Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly. Online registration for CPAC 2012 ends February 3, so reserve your space today at www.cpac.org.    

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For Immediate Release: January 19, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]   

Governor Bobby Jindal to Address CPAC for First-Time Ever
Newly Re-Elected Louisiana Governor to Be a Featured Speaker at
America’s Largest Gathering of Conservatives

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference.  America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  The newly re-elected Governor Jindal held his second-term inauguration this week, following a landslide victory last fall where he swept nearly 70 percent of the Pelican State vote. This will be his first appearance at CPAC.

“Governor Jindal is one of the most innovative and effective chief executives in America. Evidenced by his massive reelection victory last fall, it is clear voters in Louisiana and throughout the country are hungry for proven conservative solutions to meet our greatest challenges,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “As we ready for the critical 2012 election, I’m honored to welcome Governor Jindal to the Conservative Political Action Conference for the first-time ever.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governor Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: January 18, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Expands State Legislative Ratings to 15 States in 2012
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Builds on Marquee Ratings of Congress Initiative 

WASHINGTON, DC – American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced ACU is expanding its new State Legislative Ratings initiative in 2012, increasing the number of state legislatures rated to 15 states, up from last year’s inaugural five states.  Based on the ACU’s gold-standard Ratings of Congress established in 1971, the State Legislative Ratings initiative grades members on their votes on key conservative issues.

In 2011, conservative ratings were issued to elected officials in the Legislatures of key battleground states Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Virginia. In 2012, the ACU is adding these additional states: California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. (Please note: The Nevada State Legislature will not be in regular session this year, but will return to the ACU’s roster in 2013).

“Building on our legacy at the federal level, one of the American Conservative Union’s chief goals is ensuring voters know where their state elected representatives stand on the issues most important to conservatives,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “In its first year, our State Legislative Ratings program was extraordinarily well received – garnering significant attention from state legislators, grassroots leaders and activists and the media. The ACU is proud to expand this successful young initiative to a total of 15 states in the critical 2012 election year.”

With State Legislatures serving as hosts to many of the most significant and controversial policy debates facing Americans – from fighting ObamaCare to cutting spending to preserving traditional values – the ACU is committed to playing a defining role in these conversations. The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before state legislatures to determine which issues and votes serve as a clear litmus test separating those representatives who defend liberty and liberal members who have turned their backs on our founding principles – constitutionally limited government, individual liberty, free markets, a strong national defense and traditional values.

“As many state legislatures convene this month and throughout the spring, we hope our coming 2012 ratings serve as a reminder for elected officials that we will provide voters with a fair, transparent guide to their positions on the most important conservative issues of the day,” added Cardenas.

Founded in 1964, the ACU represents the views of Americans who are concerned with economic growth through lower taxes and reduced government spending and the issues of liberty, personal responsibility, traditional values and national security.  ACU first began rating members of Congress on key conservative voting issues in 1971, and since then their ratings system has become the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics.

For more information on the American Conservative Union or to download complete 2011 State Legislative Ratings Guides, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: January 17, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Oliver North, Wayne LaPierre to Address CPAC 2012
ACU Preparing to Host 39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Oliver North, a combat decorated marine, FOX News Channel host and Chairman of Freedom Alliance, and Wayne LaPierre, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Rifle Association of America, will both be featured speakers at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. 

“We are proud to announce the addition of two great American patriots, Lieutenant Colonel North and Wayne LaPierre, to our outstanding line-up for CPAC 2012. Both are strong, influential voices for the cause of freedom and crowd favorites among the thousands of conservatives who gather in Washington each year for the Conservative Political Action Conference,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “In less than one month, the American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting 2012’s premier venue for highlighting and advancing conservative leaders, principles and polices.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.  

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Laura Ingraham, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governor Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly. To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.    

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For Immediate Release: January 11, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

Laura Ingraham to Be a Featured Speaker at CPAC 2012
One of America’s Most Popular Political Talk Radio Hosts Returns to CPAC

 WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Laura Ingraham will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference.  America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  The host of the “The Laura Ingraham Show” is also a regular FOX News contributor and New York Times bestselling author.

“For the last decade, Laura Ingraham has been one of the most powerful conservative voices on American airwaves, articulating our shared principles and  influencing millions of listeners across the nation,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “I’m proud to welcome Laura, a great friend of the American Conservative Union, back to CPAC. Next month, CPAC 2012 will be the nation’s premier event for showcasing conservative principles, policies and leaders.”

Laura Ingraham is the most listened-to woman in political talk radio in the United States. “The Laura Ingraham Show” is heard on hundreds of stations nationwide and has been addicting legions of listeners since its launch in 2001. Laura is a regular FOX News contributor and the principal substitute host on The O’Reilly Factor. She is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of five books, including Power to the People, The Obama Diaries, and her latest, Of Thee I Zing: America’s Cultural Decline from Muffin Tops to Body Shots.

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes former Governors Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, , Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governor Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: January 5, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin Announced as CPAC 2012 Closing Speaker

Former Vice-Presidential Candidate will Conclude Three-Day Event with Address to America’s Oldest, Largest Annual Gathering of Grassroots Conservative Activists

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced former Vice Presidential candidate and Alaska Governor Sarah Palin will deliver a special keynote address at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference.  America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  The FOX News contributor and New York Times bestselling author will conclude the three-day event, a slot occupied by Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck and U.S. Congressman Allen West in the past three years.     

“Few national conservative leaders in America today energize and inspire our grassroots activists like Governor Sarah Palin. Her strong record of leadership, championing of our shared principles and magnetic personality have made Sarah Palin a hero to millions of conservatives across the country,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “As we ready for the critical 2012 election, I’m honored to welcome Governor Palin to the Conservative Political Action Conference for the first-time ever.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, former Governors Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Steve King, Paul Ryan and Allen West, former Senator Rick Santorum, Governor Scott Walker and many more.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org

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For Immediate Release: January 3, 2012
Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, [email protected]

ACU Announces Senator Rick Santorum Will Be a Featured Speaker at CPAC 2012
Conservative Iowa Congressman Steve King Also Confirmed to Address America’s Largest Gathering of Grassroots Conservative Activists

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced former Senator Rick Santorum (R – PA), a leading presidential candidate in today’s Iowa Caucuses, will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.  The ACU today announced the event will also feature confirmed speaker Congressman Steve King (IA – 5).

“Senator Santorum has gained momentum in this year’s presidential nominating contest because he has made a convincing case across Iowa for the three-legged stool of conservatism. He is a favorite speaker among CPAC attendees and we are proud to welcome him again this year,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “As we have for nearly four decades, the American Conservative Union is proud to champion conservative leaders like Rick Santorum and Steve King, as well as the conservative policies and principles needed to address our nation’s challenges.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in November.   

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, former Governors Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, Congressmen Jim Jordan, Paul Ryan and Allen West, values leader Tony Perkins, Governor Scott Walker and many more. As the countdown to CPAC continues, the ACU is making exciting announcements each week on new speakers, featured panels and special opportunities for attendees at the upcoming event.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly. To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative..

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For Immediate Release: December 8, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Announces Governor Mitt Romney to Address CPAC 2012
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Prepares to Host
39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Mitt Romney, Presidential candidate and former Governor of Massachusetts, will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC.

“As we head into the critical 2012 primaries, Governor Romney continues to effectively press his case as a solution-oriented conservative who would get America’s economy back on track. His record as a turnaround artist in both the public and private sector is a welcome alternative to the government-first politicians ubiquitous on the other side of the aisle,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The ACU is proud to again host the nation’s premier event for showcasing conservative principles, policies and leaders.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012.

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes Ann Coulter, Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Colonel Allen West, former Governor Mike Huckabee, values leader Tony Perkins and many more. As the countdown to CPAC continues, the ACU is making exciting announcements each week on new speakers, featured panels and special opportunities for attendees at the upcoming event.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973. Admission tickets and hotel accommodations for CPAC 2012 are going quickly. To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: December 6, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU to Cosponsor Newsmax ION Television 2012 Presidential Debate
ACU Chairman Al Cardenas Encourages All Candidates to Attend

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today issued the following statement regarding the upcoming Newsmax ION Television 2012 Presidential Debate, scheduled for December 27, in Des Moines, Iowa. The ACU, host of the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), will be a sponsor of the debate.

“The American Conservative Union is proud to sponsor the upcoming Newsmax ION Television 2012 Presidential Debate.

“Debates have already played a key role in this nominating process and present our best opportunity for comparing and contrasting candidates on core conservative issues. As the critical Iowa Caucuses quickly approach, we must continue vetting the field to ensure conservatives put forward a tested, competent leader to challenge President Obama next fall.

“We strongly encourage all Republican presidential candidates to participate. This will be a serious debate focused on serious issues. Conservatives across the nation will appreciate a debate hosted by a trusted conservative media outlet like Newsmax that includes a spirited conversation with the candidates, led by Donald Trump, a crowd favorite among CPAC attendees.”

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For Immediate Release: December 6, 2011

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Announces Ann Coulter to Address CPAC 2012
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Prepares to Host
39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced eight-time New York Times’ bestselling author Ann Coulter will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held February 9 –February 11, 2012, in the Nation’s Capital.

“The conservative movement has few advocates as eloquent, passionate or as debate-stirring as Ann Coulter, and we are proud to welcome her back to CPAC,” said Chairman Al Cardenas.  “The American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting CPAC next February as the premier venue to highlight conservative leaders, principles and policies in 2012.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012. 

CPAC 2012 features an all-star line-up that also includes Senators Jim DeMint and Marco Rubio, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Colonel Allen West, former Governor Mike Huckabee, values leader Tony Perkins and many more. As the countdown to CPAC continues, the ACU is making exciting announcements each week on new speakers, featured panels and special opportunities for attendees at the upcoming event.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.      

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For Immediate Release: December 1, 2011

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

                  ACU Announces Tony Perkins to Address CPAC 2012
Family Research Council to Cosponsor the 39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Tony Perkins, President of the Washington, D.C.-based Family Research Council, will address CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held February 9 –February 11, 2012, in the Nation’s Capital. Additionally, the Family Research Council will be a cosponsor of CPAC, the ACU’s marquee annual event.

“Tony Perkins is one of the conservative movement’s key advocates on faith, family and freedom issues in the public policy arena and court of public opinion. Many Americans of faith across the country have looked to his leadership as the Obama Administration continues its war on our traditional values,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting CPAC next February as the premier venue to highlight conservative leaders, principles and policies in 2012.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012. 

Tonight, at 11:59 p.m., early bird pricing options for attending CPAC 2012 expire.  Early bird discounts for attending all three exciting days of CPAC 2012 begin at just $175.00, and student prices are as low as $35.00. Individuals wishing to attend CPAC 2012 are encouraged to register online today to ensure their space.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: November 29, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Announces Senator Marco Rubio Returns to CPAC 2012
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Prepares to Host
39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative leaders and activists will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. Online registration is now open at www.cpac.org.

“In a short period of time, Marco Rubio has proven himself a courageous force in the U.S. Senate and a rising star of the national conservative movement,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The American Conservative Union is proud to announce Senator Rubio’s return to CPAC, and proud to host the nation’s premier venue to highlight conservative leaders, principles and policies in 2012.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: November 28, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Statement on Washington State Special Budget Session

ALEXANDRIA, VA – American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today urged Washington state lawmakers against heeding Governor Christine Gregoire’s campaign to raise taxes on Washington families and businesses:

“Governor Gregoire’s proposed 1.5 billion in tax increases is evidence she is putting government ahead of families and businesses. Even worse, when it comes to her proposed budget, Governor Gregoire is following in the footsteps of other liberal chief executives and employing extreme scare tactics about avoidable cuts.

“During these challenging economic times, it is reckless and short-sighted to increase the burdens on the wallets of taxpayers and a death knell to the very businesses that hold the key to our country’s economic turnaround.

“Decreased revenues for government at the state and federal levels calls for spending cuts and creates an opportunity for innovative reforms. We should be looking for cost-saving reforms that deliver services in more efficient and effective ways, not accountability-less big-spending.

“The American Conservative Union strongly urges lawmakers in Washington to reject the proposed tax referendum and come to consensus on commonsense budget cuts to rein in costs to taxpayers. With unemployment reaching nine percent in the Evergreen State, leaders should look for ways to create a more attractive economic landscape – not increasing job-killing taxes.”

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For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

For Immediate Release: November 28, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

American Conservative Union Announces Inaugural Conservative Ratings

of the North Carolina General Assembly 

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Rating State Legislators

in Five Key Battleground States

RALEIGH, NC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced the inaugural ACU Ratings of the North Carolina General Assembly during an event in Raleigh, North Carolina, honoring the Tar Heel State’s true conservatives. The nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization recently announced a new initiative to expand the highly touted ACU Congressional Ratings program to state legislatures for the first time ever, grading members on their votes on key conservative issues. The 2011 North Carolina Legislative Ratings Guide is now available online at www.conservative.org.

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I am pleased to present our 2011 State Legislative Ratings for members of the North Carolina,” said Chairman Cardenas. “Just as we hold every member of Congress accountable for his or her voting record on the most important issues facing our nation, the ACU will ensure voters in North Carolina have access to the latest information on their state representatives’ conservative credentials.”

The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before state legislatures to determine which issues and votes serve as a clear litmus test separating those representatives who defend liberty and liberal members who have turned their backs on our founding principles – constitutionally limited government, individual liberty, free markets, a strong national defense and traditional values. The votes selected for our inaugural State Legislative Ratings were chosen to create a clear ideological distinction among those casting them.

The 2011 North Carolina Legislative Ratings Guide includes scores for each individual member in both the State Senate and the House of Representatives, a description of the votes scored in each Chamber and lists of members receiving special recognition as “Defenders of Liberty,” “ACU Conservatives,” or “True Liberals of the Tar Heel State.” The full guide can be accessed and downloaded now at www.conservative.org.

“In North Carolina, under the leadership of Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and Speaker Thom Tillis, there are great examples of courageous conservatives in the General Assembly shunning big-government solutions in favor of ambitious conservative reforms that advance prosperity and individual freedom,” said Cardenas. “It is a testament to true conservatives in both chambers that the state is resisting the liberal leadership of Governor Perdue, going as far as to override her veto on several occasions. “

Chairman Al Cardenas today recognized the winners of the “Defender of Liberty” award, given to those members of the North Carolina General Assembly who scored 100 percent. In the State Senate, these members included Austin M. Allran, Tom Apodaca, Bob Atwater, Phil Berger, Stan Bingham, Harris Blake, Harry Brown, Andrew C. Brock, Debbie A. Clark, Jim Davis, Don East, James Forrester, Thom Goolsby, Rick Gunn, Kathy Harrington, Fletcher L. Hartsell, Jr., Ralph Hise, Neal Hunt, Brent Jackson, Louis Pate, Jean Preston, Bill Rabon, David Rouzer, Bob Rucho, Dan Soucek, Richard Stevens, Jerry Tillman and Tommy Tucker.

“Defenders of Liberty” in the North Carolina House of Representatives include: Marilyn Avila, Jeff Barnhart, John M. Blust, James L. Boles, Jr., William Brawley, Larry R. Brown, Rayne Brown, Harold J. Brubaker, Justin P. Burr, Jeff Collins, Bill Cook, William A. Current, Sr., N. Leo Daughtry, Jimmy Dixon, Jerry C. Dockham, Nelson Dollar, John Faircloth, Dale R. Folwell, Phillip Frye, Mitch Gillespie, W. David Guice, Mike Hager, Kelly E. Hastings, Mark K. Hilton, Mark W. Hollo, Bryan R. Holloway, D. Craig Horn, Julia C. Howard, Pat B. Hurley, Frank Iler, Dan W. Ingle, Linda P. Johnson, Jonathan C. Jordan, Carolyn H. Justice, David R. Lewis, Darrell G. McCormick, Pat McElraft, Wm. C. “Bill” McGee, Tim D. Moffitt, Tim Moore, Tom Murry, G. L. Pridgen, Shirley B. Randleman, Johnathan Rhyne, Jr., Efton M. Sager, Phil R. Shepard, Paul Stam, Edgar V. Starnes, Fred F. Steen, II, Sarah Stevens, Mike C. Stone, Thom Tillis, Harry Warren and Roger West.

The winners of the “ACU Conservative” award – given to those members who scored 80 percent or higher – in the State Senate are Peter Brunstetter, Warren Daniel, Wesley Meredith and Buck Newton.

In the House, they included: Hugh Blackwell, Glen Bradley, George G. Cleveland, Bert Jones, Ric Killian, James H. Langdon, Jr , Stephen A. LaRoque, Daniel F. McComas, Chuck McGrady, Grey Mills, Ruth Samuelson, Norman W. Sanderson, Mitchell S. Setzer and John Torbett.

In the Senate, no member earned “zero rating,”, but the House members who scored an atrocious “zero” on the ratings earned “True Liberal of the Tar Heel State” awards, including: Larry M. Bell, Alice L. Bordsen, Jean Farmer-Butterfield, Susan C. Fisher, Joe Hackney, Larry D. Hall, Verla Insko, Paul Luebke, Jennifer Weiss and Larry Womble.

Coming on the heels of ACU’s first regional Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Florida, this program expansion is the first wave of a massive state-level education campaign on conservative issues, policies and candidates. In coming years, the ACU will increase the number of State Legislatures graded, adding to these initial five targets – Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and the Commonwealth of Virginia – and further growing this successful initiative.

Founded in 1964, the ACU represents the views of Americans who are concerned with economic growth through lower taxes and reduced government spending and the issues of liberty, personal responsibility, traditional values and national security.  ACU first began rating members of Congress on key conservative voting issues in 1971, and since then their ratings system has become the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics.

For more information on the American Conservative Union or to download the full 2011 North Carolina Legislative Ratings Guide, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: November 22, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Announces Speaker Newt Gingrich to Address CPAC 2012

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Prepares to Host

39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Newt Gingrich, Presidential candidate and former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative activists and conservative leaders will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. Speaker Gingrich will speak on Friday, February 10. Online registration is now open at www.cpac.org.

“Newt Gingrich is one of the leading Republican contenders for President because he continues to offer thoughtful, articulate solutions to our nation’s challenges. From creating the ‘Contract with America’ to his role now as a national conservative leader, Speaker Gingrich influences the debate and energizes grassroots conservatives through his innovative policy ideas,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting CPAC next February as the premier venue to highlight conservative leaders, principles and policies in 2012.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012. 

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.      

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For Immediate Release: November 15, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

American Conservative Union Announces Inaugural Conservative Ratings
of the Florida Legislature 
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Rating State Legislators
in Five Key Battleground States

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced the inaugural ACU Ratings of the Florida Legislature during an event in Tallahassee, Florida, honoring the Sunshine State’s true conservatives. The nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization recently announced a new initiative to expand the highly touted ACU Congressional Ratings program to state legislatures for the first time ever, grading members on their votes on key conservative issues. The 2011 Florida Legislative Ratings Guide is now available online at www.conservative.org.

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I am pleased to present our 2011 State Legislative Ratings for members of the Florida Legislature,” said Chairman Cardenas. “Just as we hold every member of Congress accountable for his or her voting record on the most important issues facing our nation, the ACU will ensure voters in Florida have access to the latest information on their state representatives’ conservative credentials.”

The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before state legislatures to determine which issues and votes serve as a clear litmus test separating those representatives who defend liberty and liberal members who have turned their backs on our founding principles – constitutionally limited government, individual liberty, free markets, a strong national defense and traditional values. The votes selected for our inaugural State Legislative Ratings were chosen to create a clear ideological distinction among those casting them.

The 2011 Florida Legislative Ratings Guide includes scores for each individual member in both the State Senate and the House of Representatives, a description of the votes scored in each Chamber and lists of members receiving special recognition as “Defenders of Liberty,” “ACU Conservatives,” or “True Liberals of the Florida State.” The full guide can be accessed and downloaded now at www.conservative.org.

“In Florida, under the leadership of Governor Rick Scott, President Mike Haridopolos and Speaker Dean Cannon, there are countless examples of courageous Florida leaders shunning big-government solutions in favor of ambitious conservative reforms that advance prosperity and individual freedom,” added Chairman Cardenas.

Chairman Al Cardenas today recognized the winners of the “Defender of Liberty” award, given to those members of the Florida Legislature who scored 100 percent. In the State Senate, these members included Benacquisto, Lizbeth; Bogdanoff, Ellyn Setnor; Evers, Greg; Gaetz, Don; Gardiner, Andy; Haridopolos, Mike; Hays, Alan; Latvala, Jack; Negron, Joe; Norman, Jim; Oelrich, Steve; Richter, Garrett; Simmons, David; and Wise, Stephen R.

“Defenders of Liberty” in the Florida House of Representatives include: Adkins, Janet H.; Ahern, Larry; Albritton, Ben; Baxley, Dennis K.; Bileca, Michael; Brandes, Jeffrey; Brodeur, Jason T.; Broxson, Douglas Vaughn; Burgin, Rachel V.; Caldwell, Matthew H.; Cannon, Dean; Corcoran, Richard; Costello, Fredrick W.; Crisafulli, Steve; Davis, Daniel; Diaz, Jose Felix; Dorworth, Chris; Drake, Brad; Eisnaugle, Eric; Gaetz, Matt; Grant, James W.; Grimsley, Denise; Hager, Bill; Harrell, Gayle B.; Horner, Mike; Hudson, Matt; Hukill, Dorothy L.; Ingram, Clay; Legg, John; Mayfield, Debbie; McBurney, Charles; McKeel, Seth; Metz, Larry; Nehr, Peter; Oliva, Jose R.; O’Toole, H. Marlene; Patronis, Jimmy; Perry, W. Keith; Plakon, Scott; Porter, Elizabeth W.; Precourt, Stephen L.; Ray, Lake; Rooney, Jr., Patrick; Schenck, Robert C. ; Smith, Jimmie T.; Snyder, William D.; Stargel, Kelli; Tobia, John; Trujillo, Carlos; Weatherford, Will W.; Workman, Ritch; and Young, Dana D.

The winners of the “ACU Conservative” award – given to those members who scored 80 percent or higher – in the State Senate are Alexander, JD; Altman, Thad; Bennett, Michael S.; Dean Sr., Charles S. ; Detert, Nancy C.; Diaz de la Portilla, Miguel; Fasano, Mike; Flores, Anitere; Garcia, Rene; and Thrasher, John.

In the House, they included: Artiles, Frank; Aubuchon, Gary; Boyd, Jim; Coley, Marti; Ford, Clay; Fresen, Erik; Frishe, James C.; Glorioso, Richard; Gonzalez, Eduardo; Goodson, Tom; Harrison, Shawn; Holder, Doug; Hooper, Ed; Kreegel, Paige; Logan, Ana Rivas; Lopez-Cantera, Carlos; Moraitis, Jr., George R.; Nelson, Bryan; Nuñez, Jeanette M.; Passidomo, Kathleen C.; Pilon, Ray; Proctor, William L. ; Renuart, Ronald; Roberson, Kenneth L.; Steube, W. Gregory; Storms, Ronda; Van Zant, Charles E.; Weinstein, Michael B.; Williams, Trudi K.; and Wood, John.

In the Senate, the members who scored an atrocious “zero” on the ratings earned “True Liberal of the Sunshine State” awards, including: Bullard, Larcenia J., Joyner, Arthenia L.;  and Sachs, Maria Lorts.  “True Liberals” in the House included: Berman, Lori Bullard, Dwight M.; Clake-Reed, Gwyndolen; Clemens, Jeff; Jones, Mia L.; Kriseman, Rick; Pafford, Mark S. ; Perman, Steven M.; Randolph, Scott; Rogers, Hazelle P.; Rouson, Darryl Ervin; Stafford, Cynthia A.; Steinberg, Richard L. ; Thompson, Geraldine F.;  and Watson, Barbara.

Coming on the heels of ACU’s first regional Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Florida, this program expansion is the first wave of a massive state-level education campaign on conservative issues, policies and candidates. In coming years, the ACU will increase the number of State Legislatures graded, adding to these initial five targets – Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and the Commonwealth of Virginia – and further growing this successful initiative.

Founded in 1964, the ACU represents the views of Americans who are concerned with economic growth through lower taxes and reduced government spending and the issues of liberty, personal responsibility, traditional values and national security.  ACU first began rating members of Congress on key conservative voting issues in 1971, and since then their ratings system has become the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics.

For more information on the American Conservative Union or to download the full 2011 Florida Legislative Ratings Guide, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: November 9, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

American Conservative Union Announces Inaugural Conservative Ratings

of the Ohio General Assembly

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Rating State Legislators

 in Five Key Battleground States

COLUMBUS, OH – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced its inaugural ACU Ratings of the Ohio General Assembly during an event in Columbus, Ohio, honoring the Buckeye State’s true conservatives. The nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization recently announced a new initiative to expand the highly touted ACU Congressional Ratings program to state legislatures for the first time ever, grading members on their votes on key conservative issues. The 2011 Ohio Legislative Ratings Guide is now available online at www.conservative.org.

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I am pleased to present our 2011 State Legislative Ratings for members of the Ohio General Assembly,” said Chairman Cardenas. “Just as we hold every member of Congress accountable for his or her voting record on the most important issues facing our nation, the ACU will ensure voters in Ohio have access to the latest information on their state representatives’ conservative credentials.”

The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before state legislatures to determine which issues and votes serve as a clear litmus test separating those representatives who defend liberty and liberal members who have turned their backs on our founding principles – constitutionally limited government, individual liberty, free markets, a strong national defense and traditional values. The votes selected for our inaugural State Legislative Ratings were chosen to create a clear ideological distinction among those casting them.

The 2011 Ohio Legislative Ratings Guide includes scores for each individual member in both the State Senate and the House of Representatives, a description of the votes scored in each Chamber and lists of members receiving special recognition as “Defenders of Liberty,” “ACU Conservatives,” or “True Liberals of the Buckeye State.” The full guide can be accessed and downloaded now at www.conservative.org.

“We are proud to honor so many true patriots of the Ohio General Assembly for adhering to conservative principles, and especially want to applaud them for their leadership in repealing the Ohio Death Tax,” said Chairman Cardenas. “We also applaud Governor John Kasich for his courageous support of government reform and for signing a balanced state budget that does not raise taxes.”

Chairman Al Cardenas today recognized the winners of the “Defender of Liberty” award, given to those members of the Ohio General Assembly who scored 100 percent. In the State Senate, these members included Kevin Bacon, Troy Balderson, Bill Beagle, David Burke, Bill Coley, David Daniels, Keith Faber, Cliff Hite, Shannon Jones, Kris Jordan, Frank LaRose, Peggy Lehner, Thomas Niehaus, Larry Obhof, Tim Schaffer, Mark Wagoner and Chris Widener. “Defenders of Liberty” in the Ohio House of Representatives include: John Adams, Richard N. Adams, Ron Amstutz, William G. Batchelder, Peter Beck, Terry Blair, Louis W. Blessing, Jr., Terry Boose, Andrew Brenner, Danny R. Bubp, Jim Buchy, Jim Butler, Courtney Combs, Margaret Conditt, Rex Damschroder, Timothy Derickson, Mike Dovilla, Anne Gonzales, Bruce W. Goodwin, Cheryl L. Grossman, Bob D. Hackett, Christina Hagan, David Hall, Bill Hayes, Michael Henne, Jay Hottinger, Matt Huffman, Al Landis, Ron Maag, Jarrod B. Martin, Jeffrey A. McClain, Todd McKenney, Craig Newbold, Bob Peterson, Kristina Roegner, Cliff Rosenberger, Margaret Ann Ruhl, Barbara R. SearsLynn Slaby, Robert Sprague, Peter Stautberg, Andy Thompson, Joseph W. Uecker, Lynn R. Wachtmann and Ron Young.

The winners of the “ACU Conservative” award – given to those members who scored 80 percent or higher – in the State Senate are Jim Hughes, Gayle Manning, Tom Patton and Bill Seitz. In the House, winners include Marlene Anielski, Nan A. Baker, John Carey, Randy Gardner, Terry Johnson, Casey Kozlowski, Ross W. McGregor and Kirk Schuring.

In the Senate, the members who scored an atrocious “zero” on the ratings earned “True Liberal of the Buckeye” awards, including: Michael Skindell and Charleta Tavares. “True Liberals” in the House included: Nickie J. Antonio, Mike Ashford, Barbara Boyd, John Patrick Carney, Kathleen Clyde, Teresa Fedor, Mike Foley, Nancy J. Garland, Ronald V. Gerberry, Jay P. Goyal, Robert F. Hagan, Tracy Maxwell Heard, Tom Letson, Dale Mallory, Zack Milkovich, Mark D. Okey, Dan Ramos, Alicia Reece, Stephen Slesnick, Michael Stinziano, W. Carlton Weddington, Sandra Williams, Roland Winburn and Kenny Yuko.

Coming on the heels of ACU’s first regional Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Florida, this program expansion is the first wave of a massive state-level education campaign on conservative issues, policies and candidates. In coming years, the ACU will increase the number of State Legislatures graded, adding to these initial five targets – Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and the Commonwealth of Virginia – and further growing this successful initiative.

Founded in 1964, the ACU represents the views of Americans who are concerned with economic growth through lower taxes and reduced government spending and the issues of liberty, personal responsibility, traditional values and national security.  ACU first began rating members of Congress on key conservative voting issues in 1971, and since then their ratings system has become the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics.

For more information on the American Conservative Union or to download the full 2011 Ohio Legislative Ratings Guide, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Cardenas: “The Chief Threat to American Competitiveness: Our Tax Code”

“The Chief Threat to American Competitiveness: Our Tax Code”

National Review

By Al Cardenas

November 8, 2011

More than three years after America’s financial system hit a crisis point, the state of our economy remains in turmoil. As our nation’s leaders grapple with immediate challenges through dueling jobs plans and the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction tries to come to agreement on a trillion and a half in reductions, we must also consider long-term measures to strengthen our economic security. As it stands now, the number one threat to the future of American competitiveness isn’t other countries. It’s our tax law.

The United States Tax Code is difficult to understand and even harder to navigate, for families and businesses alike. Title 26 has been patchworked, reformed, and tinkered with for decades, giving us an antiquated mess of laws rife with inequities. Our corporate tax rate is among the highest in the world. We refuse to shift to a Territorial Tax System that would stop punishing our companies for bringing earned overseas income back to the U.S. for reinvestment. Tax rates for small businesses remain high and inconsistent.

A robust free-market system requires a level playing field, where the government doesn’t get to pick the winners and losers. We should require the same of our system of taxation. We need a simpler, fairer, flatter tax code that removes loopholes, subsidies, and credits, one that lowers rates across the board and expands the percentage of Americans paying their fair share of taxes.

When it comes to sales tax, it is time to address the area where prejudice is most egregious — our policy towards Internet sales. At issue is the federal government exempting some Internet transactions from sales taxes while requiring the remittance of sales taxes for identical sales made at brick and mortar locations. It is an outdated set of policies in today’s super information age, when families every day make decisions to purchase goods and services online or in person. Moreover, it’s unfair, punitive to some small businesses and corporations and a boon for others. 

This is why the American Conservative Union applauds Rep. Steve Womack for his sponsorship of the Marketplace Equity Act of 2011, one of the first sincere attempts to modernize our tax policy for the 21st century.

As conservatives we know that governmental power can be used to destroy entrepreneurship, innovation and the free market. There is no more glaring example of misguided government power then when taxes or regulations affect two similar businesses completely differently.

Over time, the company that has to comply with a tax or a regulation will lose market share to its competitor who is carved out from this government interference. In these cases the winner is not the company who outcompetes, but the one who gets special privileges from the government.

At its inception, the Internet was everyone’s darling, the latest example of American innovation and ingenuity. Internet sales represented a miniscule portion of the total retail market, and the novelty led to tax loopholes and unintended consequences. Now, according to Forrester Research, Internet sales account for nearly 10 percent of all sales of products and services in America, with an annual growth rate of about 9 percent.

If we do not confront this issue, state and local governments dependent on sales taxes will need to look for other sources of revenues as Internet sales continue to expand. Policy which allows for both online and brick and mortar retailers to be susceptible to the same taxes will — and should — allow for commensurate reductions in sales tax rates. For instance, if Internet sales tax revenues will add 10 percent in revenue to a governing body’s coffers, then, at a minimum, a corresponding overall reduction in rates should apply.

The current system is also inconsistent with states’ rights, and the Congress ought to carefully consider enacting revenue neutral tax reform policies consistent with the Tenth Amendment.

The free-market system can only operate effectively on a level playing field of free and fair competition.  Whether it’s the Department of Energy’s disastrous Solyndra project, or levying sales taxes, or a multitude of other policy decisions that impact the private sector, the government picking winners and losers is a perversion of the free market system. Lawmakers on Capitol Hill — especially conservatives — ought to at least acknowledge this when deliberating important reforms to the tax code. As we consider wholesale reform, exempting Internet sales can no longer be justified.

The Marketplace Equity Act of 2011 begins this conversation. It’s not a perfect bill, but it’s a critical beginning to this dialogue and should spark bipartisan support for revenue neutral reforms. Rest assured, we will not be party to or stand for Trojan Horse legislation that claims to strive for equity in the law merely to serve as a cloak for secret tax increases.

We have a great opportunity to drastically lower rates, especially corporate rates, and eliminate esoteric tax preferences to stave off the next massive financial crisis. A flatter, fairer, simpler tax code is the key to ensuring American competitiveness for generations to come. Our leaders in Congress are obligated to thoughtfully consider measures to achieve this.

Al Cardenas is chairman of the American Conservative Union.

To read this column on the National Review website, please visit http://www.nationalreview.com/corner/282557/chief-threat-american-competitiveness-our-tax-code-al-cardenas.  To learn more about the American Conservative Union, please visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: November 4, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Announces Congressman Allen West to Address CPAC 2012

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Prepares to Host

39^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Congressman Allen West (FL – 22) will be a featured speaker at CPAC 2012 – the 39th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative activists and conservative leaders will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. Online registration is now open at www.cpac.org.

“Congressman Allen West is a true patriot and a great friend of the American Conservative Union.  In his short time in Congress, Allen West has proved himself a principled, conservative leader, fighting for more freedom, at home and abroad, and working to limit the growth of government to ensure American families keep more of their hard-earned dollars,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting CPAC next February as the premier venue to highlight conservative leaders, principles and policies in 2012.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012. 

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1973.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.     

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For Immediate Release: November 3, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

American Conservative Union Announces Inaugural Conservative Ratings

of the Nevada Legislature

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Rating State Legislators

in Five Key Battleground States

LAS VEGAS, NV – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced its inaugural ACU Ratings of the Nevada Legislature during a press conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, featuring ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. The nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization recently announced a new initiative to expand the highly touted ACU Congressional Ratings program to state legislatures for the first time ever, grading members on their votes on key conservative issues. The 2011 Nevada Legislative Ratings Guide is now available online at www.conservative.org.

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I am pleased to present our 2011 State Legislative Ratings for members of the Nevada Legislature,” said Chairman Cardenas. “Just as we hold every member of Congress accountable for his or her voting record on the most important issues facing our nation, the ACU will ensure voters in Nevada have access to the latest information on their state representatives’ conservative credentials.”

The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before state legislatures to determine which issues and votes serve as a clear litmus test separating those representatives who defend liberty and liberal members who have turned their backs on our founding principles – constitutionally limited government, individual liberty, free markets, a strong national defense and traditional values. The votes selected for our inaugural State Legislative Ratings were chosen to create a clear ideological distinction among those casting them.

The 2011 Nevada Legislative Ratings Guide includes scores for each individual member in both the State Senate and the Assembly, a description of the votes scored in each Chamber and lists of members receiving special recognition as “Defenders of Liberty or “ACU Conservatives.” The full guide can be accessed and downloaded now at www.conservative.org.

“As pleased as we are to recognize a total of 13 members of the Legislature as true conservative patriots, we are disappointed there were not more members who adhered to conservative principles,” said Chairman Cardenas. “Thankfully, Governor Brian Sandoval, a rising star of the conservative movement, has championed limited government and pro-growth policies by vetoing several ill-conceived pieces of legislation passed by the Nevada Legislature.”

Chairman Al Cardenas today recognized the winners of the “Defender of Liberty” award, given to those members of the Nevada Legislature who scored 100 percent. In the State Senate, these members included Greg Brower, Don Gustavson, Elizabeth Halseth, Michael Roberson and James Settelmeyer. Unfortunately, no member of the Nevada Assembly received a 100 percent score.

The winners of the “ACU Conservative” award – given to those members who scored 80 percent or higher – in the State Senate are Barbara Cegavske and Mike McGinness. In the Assembly, winners include John Ellison, Ed Goedhart, John Hambrick, Ira Hansen, Richard McArthur and Mark Sherwood.

The one member of the Legislature who scored an atrocious “zero” on the ratings, earning a “True Liberal of the Silver State” award, is Assemblywoman Peggy Pierce.

Coming on the heels of ACU’s first regional Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Florida, this program expansion is the first wave of a massive state-level education campaign on conservative issues, policies and candidates. In coming years, the ACU will increase the number of State Legislatures graded, adding to these initial five targets – Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and the Commonwealth of Virginia – and further growing this successful initiative.

Founded in 1964, the ACU represents the views of Americans who are concerned with economic growth through lower taxes and reduced government spending and the issues of liberty, personal responsibility, traditional values and national security.  ACU first began rating members of Congress on key conservative voting issues in 1971, and since then their ratings system has become the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics.

For more information on the American Conservative Union or to download the full 2011 Nevada Legislative Ratings Guide, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: October 27, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Announces U.S. Senator Jim DeMint to Keynote CPAC 2012

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Prepares to Host

38^th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced U.S. Senator Jim DeMint (R – SC) will deliver the opening address at CPAC 2012 – the 38th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative activists and conservative leaders will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. Senator DeMint’s remarks are slated to begin the event on Thursday morning at 9:15 a.m. Online registration is now open at www.cpac.org.

“Jim DeMint is one of America’s most courageous conservative leaders. His unwavering commitment to our nation’s founding principles has earned Senator DeMint a near perfect ACU lifetime rating score, and we are proud to welcome him back to CPAC,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “As the grave challenges facing our country reach critical mass under the Obama Administration, conservatives must unite and mobilize to ensure voters choose a new direction in 2012. The American Conservative Union looks forward to hosting CPAC next February as the premier venue to highlight conservative leaders, principles and policies in 2012.”

“The coming year will not be just an electoral battle between conservatives and liberals, Republicans and Democrats. It will be a chance for the American people to side with President Obama’s failed, discredited policies or demand a return to our founding principles of freedom, limited government and traditional values,” said Senator Jim DeMint. “To achieve a new era of prosperity and exceptionalism, conservatives must seize the growing momentum and press our case with the American people. I’m proud to join the American Conservative Union and the nation’s leading conservative organizations at CPAC 2012 in pursuit of this shared cause.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012. 

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1974.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.cpac.org.      

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For Immediate Release: October 25, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Applauds Congressman Steve Chabot for

Withdrawing Sponsorship of NAT GAS Act

18 House Members Have Now Withdrawn Support of T. Boone Pickens’

Special Interest Energy Legislation

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today issued the following statement from ACU Chairman Al Cardenas applauding Representative Steve Chabot (OH – 1) for joining the growing coalition in Congress who are withdrawing their support for T. Boone Pickens’ NAT GAS Act: (H.R. 1380):

“Once again solidifying his strong conservative credentials, Representative Steve Chabot has withdrawn his support for T. Boone Pickens’ special interest energy legislation, the NAT GAS Act. On behalf of the American Conservative Union’s hundreds of thousands of supporters, we applaud him for his commitment to putting America’s taxpayers first.

“The goal of this legislation is not energy independence or job creation; it is to line the pockets of ‘green economy’ speculators like T. Boone Pickens and George Soros who wish to manipulate Congress for their own financial benefit. The NAT GAS Act would give taxpayer-funded handouts of up to $64,000 for natural gas vehicles that are unable to compete in the free market without government intervention.

“One by one, members learning more about the ramifications of this fiscally irresponsible legislation are withdrawing their support and helping us urge their colleagues to do the same.  As the ACU continues an aggressive advocacy campaign against the NAT GAS Act, I’m confident our coalition of opposition will only grow, ultimately defeating this proposal.”

Congressional Members Who Have Withdrawn Their Support of the “NAT GAS Act” H.B. 1380:

• Representative Todd Akin (MO-2)
• Representative Larry Bucshon (IN-8)
• Representative Bill Cassidy, M.D (LA-6)
• Representative Steve Chabot (OH-1)
• Representative Mike Coffman (CO-6)
• Representative Blake Farenthold (TX-27)
• Representative Michael Fitzpatrick (PA –
• Representative Cory Gardner (CO-4)
• Representative Tim Griffin (AR-2)
• Representative Mike Kelly [PA-3]
• Representative John Kline (MN-2)
• Representative Richard Nugent (FL-5)
• Representative Steve Pearce (NM-2)
• Representative Joseph Pitts (PA-16)
• Representative Scott Rigell (VA-2)
• Representative Glenn Thompson (PA-5)
• Representative Scott Tipton (CO-3)
• Representative Michael Turner (OH-3)

For more information, please read ACU’s letter to Congress at: http://www.conservative.org/letter-to-congress-oppose-hr-1380-the-nat-gas-act/10467/. For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: October 20, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]g  

ACU Statement on the Senate Confirmation of

Commerce Secretary John Bryson

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today issued the following statement regarding the Senate’s confirmation of Department of Commerce Secretary John Bryson:

“Tonight, as a result of Harry Reid and Senate leadership who did everything possible to avert an open and thorough vetting of this nomination, John Bryson, known job killer and enemy of American entrepreneurs will be the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

“The senseless appointment of Mr. Bryson is just another gaffe in a series of miserable economic policy decisions made by President Obama. John Bryson has made a career of putting Americans out of work, suing small businesses, taking hundreds of millions in government loans and supporting policies that would raise taxes on American consumers. Now, he is charged with the agency responsible for fostering the nation’s economic growth. When we are plagued by sustained high unemployment, crushing debt and the potential of a double-dip recession, this nomination was recklessness of the highest order.

“Most disappointing are the votes in favor of Mr. Bryson’s confirmation from senators labeling themselves ‘conservatives.’ Put simply, a conservative should not have supported an individual for this position who seemingly objects to pro-growth policies.

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I applaud Senator James Inhofe (R-OK), Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and 23 of their conservative Senate colleagues for fighting this confirmation with a vote against Mr. Bryson. We look forward to holding all members accountable on this issue when we release the next edition of our Ratings of Congress guide.

“Thankfully, in 12 short months, the American people will be presented with a referendum on President Obama’s economic agenda – and an opportunity to bring new leadership and fresh conservative faces to the U.S. Senate.”

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For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org

For Immediate Release: October 19, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Calls on Senators to Vote “NO” on the Confirmation of Obama Commerce Nominee John Bryson

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) has sent the following letter to members of the Senate, calling for them to vote “no” on President Obama’s Department of Commerce Secretary Nominee John Bryson’s confirmation. It was reported yesterday that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is quietly maneuvering to force a floor vote this week to avoid a transparent, comprehensive vetting of this Obama nominee’s record.

Full text of the letter can be found below:

“October 19, 2011

“Dear Senator:

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I strongly urge you to oppose the confirmation of John Bryson as Secretary of Commerce.  In addition to the substantive objections outlined below, Senate leaders have severely abused the normal confirmation procedure both in committee and on the floor to prevent an open debate on this nominee’s qualifications.

“The ACU rarely commits to score a vote in its annual Ratings of Congress, but in this case the confirmation vote on John Bryson will be one of the 25 votes rated in the Senate for 2011.

“The Secretary of Commerce is supposed to be America’s top advocate for economic development and a champion of private enterprise.  Yet John Bryson has spent much of his career advocating policies that kill jobs, rather than foster job creation.  Bryson co-founded the Natural Resources Defense Council, which for 40 years has fought for massive increases in government regulation and cost the taxpayers billions of dollars with their endless lawsuits. 

“As Jerry Brown’s Chairman of the California Public Utility Commission, Bryson put in place regulatory policies which have helped California become an economic basket case.  As a “corporate leader,” Bryson was a leading advocate for cap-and-trade legislation, which would have imposed a de facto energy tax on every American consumer.  Just as alarming, as head of a solar power corporation, Bryson received more than $1.5 billion in stimulus funding, more than was received by the scandal-ridden Solyndra company.

“At a time of high unemployment and a weak economy, the last thing we need is a Secretary of Commerce with this record. Please vote “no” on the Bryson nomination and ask President Obama to select a more qualified nominee.

“Sincerely,

“Larry Hart

“Director of Government Relations, The American Conservative Union”

For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: October 18, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Statement on Senator Reid’s Efforts to Force Confirmation of Commerce Secretary

Nominee John Bryson

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today issued the following statement regarding Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s reported plan to force a Senate floor vote this week on President Obama’s Department of Commerce Secretary Nominee John Bryson’s confirmation:

“Senator Reid’s quiet maneuvering to force the confirmation of John Bryson underscores just how uncomfortable Senate Democrats are with a transparent, comprehensive vetting of this Obama nominee’s record.  On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I applaud Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) for continuing his fight to block the confirmation of Mr. Bryson.

“The Secretary of Commerce is supposed to be America’s top advocate for economic development – both domestically and abroad. For this assignment, President Obama chose a known job-killer and co-founder of the litigious, left-wing National Resources Defense Council. Most recently, as head of a solar power firm, John Bryson received more than $1.5 billion in stimulus-funded federal loans – surpassing the amount Solyndra LLC even received.

“If President Obama’s goal was to nominate an anti-business opportunist to head the Commerce Department, he succeeded.

“We are currently engaging our hundreds of thousands of grassroots activists to help oppose this critical vote. Most importantly, we will hold members of the Senate accountable on this issue when we release the next edition of our Ratings of Congress guide – the nation’s best source for tracking the votes of elected officials on key conservative issues.”

ICYMI: DAILY CALLER: Harry Reid to force Tuesday vote on Obama commerce secretary

By Matthew Boyle – The Daily Caller  

10/18/2011

“Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is expected to pull a procedural move Tuesday afternoon to sneak President Obama’s Commerce Secretary nominee John Bryson through Senate confirmation, The Daily Caller has learned.

“The highly unusual maneuver will permit Reid to bypass the permanent Senate floor “hold” placed on Bryson’s nomination by Oklahoma GOP Sen. James Inhofe in July for Bryson’s involvement in founding ‘the radical Natural Resources Defense Council’ in the 1970′s.

“Reid’s chosen procedural maneuver, called a ‘time agreement,’ can quickly force Bryson’s confirmation to the floor with little opportunity for objection.

“If Reid is able to move forward procedurally, Bryson’s confirmation could reach the Senate floor on Tuesday afternoon. In that case, a simple 50-vote majority would confirm Bryson’s nomination — meaning Democrats could simply slip him through.

“Inhofe told The Daily Caller on Tuesday morning that he will meet with the Senate Republican leadership around noon today. He said he will ask Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and others to back his call for Reid to require a 60-vote threshold to confirm Bryson as the new Secretary of Commerce.

“‘We are going to tell the majority that in the event that they don’t agree to giving us a 60-vote threshold, and then go ahead and vote on the nomination, then we will go ahead and object to the motion to proceed — and go through all these arduous things and a filibuster — and then ultimately they’ll have to do a 60-vote margin anyway,’ Inhofe said in a phone interview.

“The conservative stalwart from Oklahoma added that if he wins the GOP leadership’s support, Reid can either concede the issue and hold a 60-member majority vote, or fight back and ultimately lose.

“‘I’ll find out later today if the Republicans in the conference agree with me,’ Inhofe told TheDc.

“As the ranking Republican member of the Senate Environment and Public Works committee, Inhofe has held up Bryson’s nomination for reasons other than those of some GOP colleagues. Other Republicans pushed for the Obama administration to first complete three free-trade agreements, which have recently been finalized. Inhofe, however, considers Bryson’s history troubling enough to hold him up.

“Bryson, the former CEO of Edison International, was also chairman of the board of BrightSource Energy, a solar energy startup that received one of the biggest government-backed loan guarantees ever — a $1.6 billion guarantee to build a solar energy facility in California.

“‘With Solyndra right now, and everyone talking about that, this is no time to have someone who has also had a similar type of loan guarantee that Solyndra got,’ Inhofe told TheDC.

“Bryson was also a co-founder of the National Resources Defense Council, a left-leaning environmentalist organization. ‘He isn’t just a supporter of it,’ Inhofe emphasized. ‘He helped found it.’

“Inhofe also said Bryson could not possibly affect the economy in a positive way as Commerce Secretary. ‘Why have a guy as Secretary of Commerce who’s against commerce?’ Inhofe asked. Bryson opposes drilling for fossil fuels and hydrofracking natural gas deposits, the senator said, and wants to rely ‘solely on green energy where the technology does not exist yet.’

“Bryson’s nomination was approved by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

“Neither Reid’s office nor McConnell’s staff responded to The Daily Caller’s request for comment.”

To read this article online, please visit: http://dailycaller.com/2011/10/18/harry-reid-to-force-tuesday-vote-on-obama-commerce-secretary/?print=1.  

Background on ACU’s Campaign to Fight Bryson Nomination:

The American Conservative Union (ACU) is waging a national grassroots campaign to fight the confirmation of John Bryson, President Barack Obama’s nominee to serve as the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, previously launching www.StopObamaBryson.com.

In partnership with Freedom Action, the ACU is leading an aggressive charge to defeat Bryson’s confirmation, including coalition-building, traditional and new media efforts and voter contact drives. The new coalition is educating Senators and voters on John Bryson’s history of supporting job-killing policies.

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For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

For Immediate Release: October 14, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Applauds Congressman Michael Turner for

Withdrawing Sponsorship of NAT GAS Act

17 House Members Have Withdrawn Support of T. Boone Pickens’ Special Interest Legislation

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today issued the following statement from ACU Chairman Al Cardenas applauding Representative Michael Turner (OH – 3) for joining the growing coalition in Congress who are withdrawing their support for T. Boone Pickens’ NAT GAS Act: (H.R. 1380):

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union and our hundreds of thousands of grassroots supporters across the country, I applaud Representative Turner for boldly withdrawing his support for T. Boone Pickens’ proposed NAT GAS Act.

“As the President lobbies for hundreds of billions in new spending on top of the trillions in debt our nation is already grappling with, the last thing we need are new, unnecessary programs that will only line the pockets of T. Boone Pickens, George Soros and other ‘green economy’ speculators.

“After learning more about the colossal costs to taxpayers connected with this special interest legislation, 17 members of Congress have withdrawn their support and sponsorship of the NAT GAS Act. As the ACU continues an aggressive advocacy campaign against the NAT GAS Act, I’m confident our coalition of opposition will only grow, ultimately defeating this ill-conceived proposal.”

Congressional Members Who Have Withdrawn Their Support of the “NAT GAS Act” H.B. 1380:

• Representative Todd Akin (MO-2)
• Representative Larry Bucshon (IN-8)
• Representative Bill Cassidy, M.D (LA-6)
• Representative Mike Coffman (CO-6)
• Representative Blake Farenthold (TX-27)
• Representative Michael Fitzpatrick (PA-8)
• Representative Cory Gardner (CO-4)
• Representative Tim Griffin (AR-2)
• Representative Mike Kelly [PA-3]
• Representative John Kline (MN-2)
• Representative Richard Nugent (FL-5)
• Representative Steve Pearce (NM-2)
• Representative Joseph Pitts (PA-16)
• Representative Scott Rigell (VA-2)
• Representative Glenn Thompson (PA-5)
• Representative Scott Tipton (CO-3)
• Representative Michael Turner (OH-3)

For more information, please read ACU’s letter to Congress at: http://www.conservative.org/letter-to-congress-oppose-hr-1380-the-nat-gas-act/10467/. For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: October 13, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

American Conservative Union Announces Inaugural Conservative Ratings

of the Virginia General Assembly

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Rating State Legislators

in Five Key Battleground States

RICHMOND, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced its inaugural ACU Ratings of the Virginia General Assembly during a press conference in Richmond, Virginia, featuring ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. The nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization recently announced a new initiative to expand the highly touted ACU Congressional Ratings program to state legislatures for the first time ever, grading members on their votes on key conservative issues. The 2011 Virginia Legislative Ratings Guide is now available online at www.conservative.org.

“On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I am pleased to present our 2011 State Legislative Ratings for members of the Virginia General Assembly,” said Chairman Cardenas. “Just as we hold every member of Congress accountable for his or her voting record on the most important issues facing our nation, the ACU will ensure voters in Virginia have access to the latest information on their state representatives’ conservative credentials.”

Coming on the heels of ACU’s first regional Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Florida, this program expansion is the first wave of a massive state-level education campaign on conservative issues, policies and candidates. In coming years, the ACU will increase the number of State Legislatures graded, adding to these initial five targets – Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and the Commonwealth of Virginia – and further growing this successful initiative.

The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before state legislatures to determine which issues and votes serve as a clear litmus test separating those representatives who defend liberty and liberal members who have turned their backs on our founding principles – constitutionally limited government, individual liberty, free markets, a strong national defense and traditional values. The votes selected for our inaugural State Legislative Ratings were chosen to create a clear ideological distinction among those casting them.

The 2011 Virginia Legislative Ratings Guide includes scores for each individual member in both the Senate of Virginia and House of Delegates, a description of the votes scored in each Chamber and lists of members receiving special recognition as “Defenders of Liberty or “ACU Conservatives.” Additionally, the legislators with the most atrocious records on conservative policy priorities earned acknowledgements as “True Liberals of The Old Dominion.” The full guide can be accessed and downloaded now at www.conservative.org.

Chairman Al Cardenas today also recognized the winners of the “Defender of Liberty” award, given to those members of the Virginia General Assembly who scored 100 percent. In the Senate of Virginia, these members include: Martin, Stephen H., Newman, Stephen D., Obenshain, Mark D., Smith, Ralph K., Stanley, William M., Jr. and Stuart, Richard H. In the House of Delegates, these members include: Abbit, Watkins M., Jr., Anderson, Richard L., Athey, Clifford L., Jr., Bell, Richard P., Bell, Robert B., Byron, Kathy J., Cline, Benjamin L., Cole, Mark L., Comstock, Barbara J., Cosgrove, John A., Cox, John A., Cox, M. Kirkland, Garrett, T. Scott, Gilbert, C. Todd, Greason, Thomas A., Helsel, Gordon C., Jr., Howell, William J., Iaquinto, Salvatore R., Janis, Bill, Kilgore, Terry G., Knight, Barry D., LeMunyon, James M., Lingamfelter, L. Scott, Loupassi, G. M., Marshall, Daniel W., III, Marshall, Robert G., Massie, James P., III, May, Joe T., Oder, Glenn G., Pogge, Brenda L., Sherwood, Beverly J., Stolle, Christopher P., Villanueva, Ronald A., and Wilt, Tony O.

The winners of the “ACU Conservative” award – given to those members who scored 80 percent or higher – in the Senate of Virginia include Blevins, Harry B., McDougle, Ryan T., McWaters, Jeffrey L., Ruff, Frank M., Jr., Vogel, Jill Holtzman, Wagner, Frank W. and Wampler, William C., Jr. In the House of Delegates, winners include Albo, David B., Carrico, Charles W., Sr., Cleaveland, William H., Crockett-Stark, Anne B., Edmunds, James E., II, Habeeb, Gregory D., Hugo, Timothy D., Ingram, Riley E., Johnson, Joseph P., Jr., Jones, S. Chris, Landes, R. Steven, Merricks, Donald W., Miller, Jackson H., Morefield, James W., Nutter, David A., O’Bannon, John M., III, Orrock, Robert D., Sr., Peace, Christopher K., Poindexter, Charles D., Purkey, Harry R., Putney, Lacey E., Robinson, Roxann L., Scott, Edward T., Tata, Robert, Ware, R. Lee, Jr. and Wright, Thomas C., Jr.

Founded in 1964, the ACU represents the views of Americans who are concerned with economic growth through lower taxes and reduced government spending and the issues of liberty, personal responsibility, traditional values and national security.  ACU first began rating members of Congress on key conservative voting issues in 1971, and since then their ratings system has become the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics.

For more information on the American Conservative Union or to download the full 2011 Virginia Legislative Ratings Guide, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: October 6, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Statement on Senate Committee Vote to Confirm Department of Commerce Secretary Nominee John Bryson

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation vote to send Department of Commerce Secretary Nominee John Bryson’s confirmation to the Senate floor:

“With their vote to advance the confirmation of Commerce Secretary Nominee John Bryson, Chairman (John D.) Rockefeller and his liberal colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee reaffirmed they are unwilling to take the bold steps necessary to spur America’s economic recovery.

“At a time when we have sustained double-digit unemployment, more than 14 million Americans out of work and a persistently sluggish economy that recently received its first-ever credit rating downgrade, the last thing we can afford is to further shake the confidence of the nation’s entrepreneurs and job creators.

“Beginning with his role in founding the Natural Resources Defense Council, John Bryson has made a career of placing America’s business community in the crosshairs of government bureaucracy and punitive litigation. His nomination is just one more example of the Obama Administration’s war on economic development through burdensome mandates and misdirected policies like cap-and-trade.

“The American Conservative Union will continue our education campaign on the appointment of a new Commerce Secretary, asking allied organizations and our hundreds of thousands of grassroots supporters across America to join this opposition effort. Most importantly, we will hold members of the Senate accountable on this critical vote when we release the next edition of our Ratings of Congress guide – the nation’s best source for tracking the votes of elected officials on key conservative issues.”

Background on Obama’s Commerce Nominee John Bryson:

The American Conservative Union (ACU) is waging a national grassroots campaign to fight the confirmation of John Bryson, President Barack Obama’s nominee to serve as the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, previously launching www.StopObamaBryson.com.

Bryson co-founded the Natural Resources Defense Council, which for 40 years has worked to impose mandates, expand government regulation, oppose economic development across the country and impose taxes on energy that are harmful to small business and would stifle job creation.  In 2009, Bryson was a leading proponent of cap and trade legislation, which would have had the effect of imposing a national energy tax on every American consumer.

In partnership with Freedom Action, the ACU is leading an aggressive charge to defeat Bryson’s confirmation, including coalition-building, traditional and new media efforts and voter contact drives. The new coalition is educating Senators and voters on John Bryson’s history of supporting job-killing policies.

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For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

For Immediate Release: October 6, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Officially Launches CPAC 2012

Online Registration Opens Today for America’s Largest

Annual Gathering of Conservatives

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced the official launch of CPAC 2012 – the 38th annual Conservative Political Action Conference. America’s largest gathering of conservative activists and conservative leaders will be held Thursday, February 9 – Saturday, February 11, 2012, in Washington, DC. Online registration opens today at cpac2012.conservative.org.

“There couldn’t be a more critical time for conservatives to unite. President Obama and his liberal colleagues in Congress are responsible for crushing debt, unconstrained spending, unprecedented growth of government and the collapse of the very principles and values that have made America the greatest country on earth. .” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Our road to recovery doesn’t begin with another stimulus package, it begins with a new direction and new conservative leadership, commenced at CPAC 2012 and sealed in November of next year.”

Every year, the ACU brings thousands of grassroots conservatives and conservative leaders together in Washington, DC for three days of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. Based on this year’s theme, “We STILL Hold These Truths”, CPAC 2012 will feature grassroots training and strategizing to strengthen the conservative movement and ensure conservatives have the resources and tools necessary to defeat the Obama agenda in 2012. 

Located at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, attendees will meet and hear from the nation’s most courageous conservative leaders, participate in setting the conservative agenda for the coming year and rally support against the big-government policies destroying America.

Earlier this year, thousands of conservatives assembled in the Nation’s Capital for CPAC 2011, and, under the leadership of Chairman Cardenas, CPAC 2012 promises to be the ACU’s best conference yet.  For an exclusive first look at what’s in store for CPAC 2012, check out the ACU’s new video trailer here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_AFS15SSgQ.  

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s Capital since 1974.  To register for CPAC 2012, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit cpac2012.conservative.org.   

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ACU State Legislative Ratings Coming to Five States in Fall 2011

Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Announces Release Schedule for Inaugural Conservative Ratings of State Legislators

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced its schedule for releasing inaugural conservative ratings of state legislators in the battleground states of Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Virginia. The ACU is taking its highly touted Congressional Ratings program to state legislatures for the first time ever, grading members on their votes on key conservative issues.

Coming on the heels of ACU’s first regional Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Florida last week, this program expansion is the first wave of a massive state-level education campaign on conservative issues, policies and candidates. Each release date will feature the announcement of ratings for each individual member of the five State Houses, as well as a formal event honoring the “ACU Conservatives” and “Defenders of Liberty” in each Chamber. 

ACU Launches Inaugural State Legislative Ratings in Fall 2011:

• Virginia: October 13, 2011 in Richmond, VA
• Nevada: November 3, 2011 in Las Vegas, NV
• Ohio: November 9, 2011 in Columbus, OH
• Florida: November 15, 2011 in Tallahassee, FL
• North Carolina: November 29, 2011 in Raleigh, NC

“Just as we hold every member of Congress accountable for his or her voting record on the most important issues facing our nation, the ACU will ensure voters in critical states have access to the latest information on their state representatives’ conservative credentials,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “With state governments on the frontlines of many of the most significant and controversial policy debates facing our country – from fighting ObamaCare to cutting spending to preserving traditional values – the ACU is committed to playing a defining role in this conversation at every level of government.”

A recent Google search for “ACU Ratings” returned more than 966,000 website citations of the powerful ratings index. ACU Ratings are published by the Almanac of American Politics, Congressional Quarterly and the National Journal, among others.

In coming years, the ACU will increase the number of State Legislatures graded, adding to this initial five targets and further growing this successful initiative.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. ACU first began rating members of Congress on key conservative voting issues in 1971 and since then their ratings system has become the most important conservative measuring stick in American politics. This inaugural expansion of the program is part of Chairman Cardenas’ vision for building on successful ACU initiatives, such as CPAC.

For more information on the American Conservative Union, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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ACU Announces Florida Governor Rick Scott and Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll to Address CPAC FL

Full CPAC FL Agenda Now Available Online  

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Florida Governor Rick Scott and Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll will address CPAC FL – the organization’s first in an inaugural series of regional events expanding on the legacy of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). CPAC FL will be held this month in Orlando, Florida, on Friday, September 23, 2011. Additionally, the ACU today announced the full CPAC FL agenda is now available at: http://cpacfl.conservative.org.

“In less than a year on the job, Rick Scott has made good on his promises to Floridians, lowering taxes, reducing government spending and promoting economic development in the Sunshine State. Under the leadership of Governor Rick Scott and Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll, Florida is implementing pro-growth policies to accelerate job creation, standing in stark contrast to President Obama’s liberal agenda – one that has failed our economy and our country,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The ACU is honored to host our first regional CPAC in the critical state of Florida and highlight the State’s conservative leaders.”

Just like the ACU’s marquee gathering in Washington, DC every spring – the nation’s largest annual gathering of grassroots activists – CPAC FL will bring national and state conservative leaders and grassroots activists together for a day of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. The full list of speakers and panel presentations is now available online at http://cpacfl.conservative.org.

Located in the South Concourse of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, confirmed speakers also include all ten leading Republican presidential candidates, ACU Chairman Cardenas, bestselling author Ann Coulter, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, members of the Florida Cabinet and leaders of the Florida Legislature and conservative leaders like former House Majority Leader Dick Armey, S.E. Cupp, Bill Kristol, Grover Norquist, Ralph Reed and former U.S. Senator Jim Talent (R – MO).

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s capital since 1974.  To register for CPAC FL, receive more information or register for media credentials, visit http://cpacfl.conservative.org. 

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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Cardenas: “Time to quit blaming and start leading”

“Time to quit blaming and start leading”

Washington Times

By Al Cardenas

September 8, 2011

“Congress returned in full force this week from its August recess, and President Obama finally will put forward much-hyped jobs and deficit- reduction proposals. After more than two years of sustained high unemployment and a perpetually sluggish market, it’s about time.

“The devastating downgrade of America’s bond rating by Standard & Poor’s last month and the resulting market tumult underscored that this economic crisis is far from over. In advance of Mr. Obama’s coming recommendations, a few requests: Stop the blame game, take responsibility and show leadership.

“‘Owning’ the economy entails accountability for outcomes.

“To this day, Mr. Obama still blames his predecessor and Republicans for every problem facing our country. Yes, some of these gripes are justified. Yes, he did inherit an economic crisis. But let’s get beyond the juvenile finger-pointing.

“Federal budgets are passed by Congress, not the White House. The party that controlled Congress during the Obama administration until January is the Democratic Party. Mr. Obama, as a matter of fact, inherited a budget that he supported as the junior senator from Illinois. As president, he has overseen an exponential increase in our deficit. He has advocated raising the debt ceiling four times since taking office, bringing the limit to $16.4 trillion.

“The latest tallies show nearly 14 million Americans are without jobs – and the national jobless rate has reached or exceeded 9 percent for 28 straight months. The Labor Department just announced that zero net new jobs were added in August. Painting an even bleaker picture, the Office of Management and Budget projects the unemployment rate will stay near double digits through 2012.

“As Mr. Obama presents his latest proposals to get the country back to work and shrink our massive debt, Americans should appraise his track record. Just this summer, the White House’s own Council of Economic Advisers released a report disclosing that the 2009 stimulus package cost taxpayers $278,000 per new job. Our gross domestic product and consumer spending remain stagnant, absent promising signals of growth. Now, additional key economic indicators reveal we may even be on the precipice of a double-dip recession.

“Tone deaf, the White House proposed a $3.7 trillion budget for 2012, 40 percent of which is made up of borrowed money. Democrats further compounded our debt crisis in late July when they refused to tackle deficit reduction sincerely. The uncertainty surrounding the Budget Control Act and liberals’ accompanying plea for tax increases on American job creators led to the first-ever downgrade of our country’s credit rating since initially attaining a AAA score in 1941. Our credit rating was not lowered after World War II, after the recessions of the 1970s and 1980s or even after the financial crisis that wreaked havoc on Wall Street and the world markets in 2008. It happened on Mr. Obama’s watch.

“In recent weeks, the White House has sought to draw ties between our current chief executive and former President Ronald Reagan. In a recent Wall Street Journal column, Stephen Moore shattered this comparison. While it is true both were heirs to stunted economies and both added to our deficits, Reagan made major tax cuts and reduced regulatory burdens, unleashing unprecedented economic growth.

“Comparatively, three decades later, Mr. Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has failed. Instead of lowering taxes and allowing the private sector to create jobs, he favored letting the government spend dollars to create jobs. Mr. Obama’s policies have grown the size and scope of government, unnerved the private sector and accelerated our decline.

“Though the past is prologue too often, Mr. Obama has a real opportunity this week to reverse course and put the needs of American workers and the American economy before his failed, liberal big-government dogma.

“The president has promised solutions with bipartisan appeal. If that holds true, he should embrace reforms offered by the House of Representatives: slashing wasteful programs, establishing real spending caps and balancing the budget – as leaders of all political stripes should strive for – preferably through a balanced-budget amendment. These measures hold the promise of restoring investor confidence. America’s job creators will get to work, rating agencies will re-evaluate our credit, and the global financial system will respond accordingly.

“Leadership is about the fortitude to make the tough but necessary decisions – ones in the best interests of our economic and national security – not about foisting blame on others when it is politically expedient.

“As we contemplate the next big debate in Washington, I am inspired by a quote in a previous debt-ceiling increase debate:

“‘The fact that we are here today to debate raising America’s debt limit is a sign of leadership failure. It is a sign that the U.S. government can’t pay its own bills. It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing financial assistance from foreign countries to finance our government’s reckless fiscal policies. … Increasing America’s debt weakens us domestically and internationally. Leadership means that ‘the buck stops here.’ Instead, Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our children and grandchildren. America has a debt problem and a failure of leadership. Americans deserve better.’ – Sen. Barack H. Obama, March 2006.

“Amen, sir.”

Al Cardenas is chairman of the American Conservative Union.

To read this column on the Washington Times’ website, please visit http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/sep/7/time-to-quit-blaming-and-start-leading/?page=all#pagebreak.  To learn more about the American Conservative Union, please visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: September 7, 2011

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

CPAC FL to Highlight Health Care Freedom and

Strategies for Ending Unconstitutional ObamaCare

Panel to Feature Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, Florida Senate President

Mike Haridopolos, former Attorney General Bill McCollum and Jordan Sekulow

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced its first panel scheduled for CPAC FL – the organization’s inaugural regional Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Health Care Freedom & Constitutionalism: Reining in the Rogue Federal Government will feature a conversation on the unconstitutional overreaching of the Obama Administration and Congress when it comes to the right to make individual health care decisions, and conservatives’ courageous efforts to protect personal liberties.

 This panel will be headlined by:

• Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, currently leading the 26-state lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of ObamaCare
• Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos, recently led the effort to pass The Health Care Freedom Act through the Florida Legislature, giving Floridians an opportunity to make their own decisions on individual health care choices.
• Former Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum, the Sunshine State’s former chief legal officer who engineered the court challenge of ObamaCare and launched the initial coalition of participating states.
• Jordan Sekulow, attorney, national conservative radio host and the Executive Director of the American Center for Law & Justice.

Scheduled for Friday, September 23, 2011 in Orlando, CPAC FL will bring national and state conservative leaders and grassroots activists together for a day of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating CPAC FL’s theme of “We STILL Hold These Truths.” In the coming weeks, the ACU will release additional details on CPAC’s exciting agenda and the policy and political panels scheduled for this special event.

Located at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, confirmed speakers also include the ten leading Republican presidential candidates, bestselling author Ann Coulter, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and many more conservative heroes.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s capital since 1974.  To register for CPAC FL, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: August 30, 2011
Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]

ACU Announces Congressman Ron Paul to Address CPAC Florida
Top Ten Presidential Candidates Scheduled to Address Inaugural Regional
Conservative Political Action Conference

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced Congressman Ron Paul (TX-14) will address CPAC FL — the organization’s first in an inaugural series of regional events expanding on the legacy of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). CPAC FL will be held this fall in Orlando, Florida, on Friday, September 23, 2011. With today’s announcement confirming Congressman Paul’s attendance, CPAC FL will play host this fall to the leading ten Republican presidential candidates.

“A previous winner of CPAC presidential straw polls, Ron Paul is a leading voice for adhering to a limited constitutional government. His consistent voting record and unwavering commitment to his principles have earned Congressman Paul a strong and loyal grassroots base,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The ACU is honored to host all of the major presidential candidates this September at our first-ever regional CPAC event.”

Just like the ACU’s marquee gathering in Washington, DC every spring — the nation’s largest annual gathering of grassroots activists — CPAC FL will bring national and state conservative leaders and grassroots activists together for a day of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities — all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values.

Located at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, confirmed speakers also include Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (R — MN), businessman Herman Cain, ACU Chairman Cardenas, bestselling author Ann Coulter, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson, founder of The Weekly Standard Bill Kristol, Congressman Thaddeus McCotter (R – MI), Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist, Texas Governor Rick Perry, Faith & Freedom Coalition Chairman Ralph Reed, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and former Senators Rick Santorum and Jim Talent. Invited speakers include many more conservative heroes.

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s capital since 1974. To register for CPAC FL, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: August 10, 2011
Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]   

ACU Announces CPAC FL to Feature a Florida U.S. Senate Primary Straw Poll
American Conservative Union Prepares Inaugural Regional Conservative Political Action Conference in Orlando 

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced that its inaugural regional Conservative Political Action Conference – CPAC FL – will feature a Florida U.S. Senate Republican primary straw poll. The day-long event featuring national and state conservative leaders will be held this fall in Orlando, Florida, on Friday, September 23, 2011. 

“To replicate the success of our annual national CPAC Presidential Straw Poll at the state level, we are proud to announce the American Conservative Union will hold a Florida U.S. Senate primary straw poll at CPAC FL,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Using the same forum that introduced Marco Rubio to the national scene, we hope to highlight conservative Florida leaders, who are standing strongly in opposition to the shared liberal agenda of President Barack Obama and Senator Bill Nelson, to a crowd of grassroots activists from across the Sunshine State.” 

Conducted by Fabrizio, McLaughlin & Associates, a leading international survey research and strategic consulting firm, the 2011 CPAC FL Straw Poll is open to all registered CPAC attendees. The ACU will set the official straw poll ballot and release official rules and additional details in the coming weeks. Individuals included on the ballot will be invited to provide brief remarks from CPAC FL’s main stage. To date, invited participants include: former Florida House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, former U.S. Senator George LeMieux, retired U.S. Army Colonel Mike McCalister and former Ruth’s Chris Steak House CEO Craig Miller. 

In what the St. Petersburg Times recently called “a conservative dream,” CPAC FL’s confirmed line-up includes Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (R – MN), businessman Herman Cain, ACU Chairman Cardenas, bestselling author Ann Coulter, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson, founder of The Weekly Standard Bill Kristol, Congressman Thaddeus McCotter (R – MI), Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist, former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, Faith & Freedom Coalition Chairman Ralph Reed, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and former Senators Rick Santorum and Jim Talent. 

To register for CPAC FL, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.  

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For Immediate Release: August 4, 2011
Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]    

ACU Announces Former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman to Address CPAC Florida
Nine Presidential Candidates Now Scheduled to Address Inaugural Regional Conservative Political Action Conference 

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced former Utah Governor Jon Huntsman will address CPAC FL – the organization’s first in an inaugural series of regional events expanding on the legacy of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). CPAC FL will be held this fall in Orlando, Florida, on Friday, September 23, 2011. 

“As a two-term Republican chief executive of one of the most conservative states in the nation, Jon Huntsman built a strong record of cutting taxes, enacting pro-growth economic policies – from corralling government spending to balancing the state’s budget – and making Utah a leading state for job creation,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “He’s been a defender of liberty and signed strong pro-life legislation restricting abortions. We look forward to Governor Huntsman’s address at our inaugural regional CPAC.” 

Just like the ACU’s marquee gathering in Washington, DC every spring – the nation’s largest annual gathering of grassroots activists – CPAC FL will bring national and state conservative leaders and grassroots activists together for a day of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. 

Located at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, confirmed speakers also include Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (R – MN), businessman Herman Cain, ACU Chairman Cardenas, bestselling author Ann Coulter, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson, founder of The Weekly Standard Bill Kristol, Congressman Thaddeus McCotter (R – MI), Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist, former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, Faith & Freedom Coalition Chairman Ralph Reed, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio and former Senators Rick Santorum and Jim Talent. Invited speakers include many more conservative heroes. 

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s capital since 1974.  To register for CPAC FL, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: August 3, 2011
Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]  

ACU Announces Ann Coulter Will Join CPAC FL
All-star Panels to Feature Bill Kristol, Grover Norquist, Ralph Reed and Jim Talent 

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced eight-time New York Times’ bestselling author Ann Coulter will be a headliner at CPAC FL – the organization’s first in an inaugural series of regional events expanding on the legacy of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Additionally, ACU announced several national conservative leaders will serve on CPAC FL panels, including the founder of The Weekly Standard, Bill Kristol, Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist, Faith & Freedom Coalition Chairman Ralph Reed and former U.S. Senator Jim Talent. 

“Ann Coulter’s new book Demonic is flying off the shelves and we can’t wait to host her as a key speaker at CPAC FL,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “We are excited about the participation of so many tremendous conservatives, including Ann, Bill Kristol, Grover Norquist, Ralph Reed and Jim Talent. This will be the Southeast’s biggest conservative rally of 2011, and we are proud to host it.” 

Just like the ACU’s marquee gathering in Washington, DC every spring – the nation’s largest annual gathering of grassroots activists – CPAC FL will bring national and state conservative leaders and grassroots activists together for a day of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. 

Located at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, confirmed speakers also include U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, businessman Herman Cain, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson, Congressman Thaddeus McCotter, former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, former Senator Rick Santorum and ACU Chairman Cardenas. Invited speakers include additional presidential candidates from the 2012 field and many more conservative heroes. 

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s capital since 1974. To register for CPAC FL, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.  

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For Immediate Release: August 1, 2011
Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]   

Cain, Johnson, McCotter: Presidential Candidates Addressing CPAC FL Up to Eight
Herman Cain, Gary Johnson and Thaddeus McCotter to Address Inaugural Regional Conservative Political Action Conference 

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced three new additions to its blockbuster lineup for CPAC FL, including businessman Herman Cain, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson and Congressman Thaddeus McCotter (R – MI). The organization’s first in an inaugural series of regional events expanding on the legacy of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) will be held this fall in Orlando, Florida, on Friday, September 23, 2011. The latest confirmed additions bring the number of presidential candidates addressing CPAC FL to eight. 

“Herman Cain, Gary Johnson and Thaddeus McCotter are perfect examples of the ideologically diverse slate of candidates conservatives will have the option of supporting in 2012. All are great candidates with compelling stories, and we look forward to hearing their positions on issues of critical importance to the conservative movement” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “We are excited about their participation and we look forward to hosting these candidates in the Sunshine State for our inaugural regional CPAC.” 

Just like the ACU’s marquee gathering in Washington, DC every spring – the nation’s largest annual gathering of grassroots activists – CPAC FL will bring national and state conservative leaders and grassroots activists together for a day of blockbuster speeches, policy discussions and networking opportunities – all celebrating the shared principles of smaller government, a strong national defense and traditional values. 

Located at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, confirmed speakers also include U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, former Senator Rick Santorum and ACU Chairman Cardenas. Invited speakers include additional presidential candidates from the 2012 field and many more conservative heroes. 

The American Conservative Union is America’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization and was founded in 1964. The ACU has hosted CPAC in the Nation’s capital since 1974. To register for CPAC FL, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.  

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For Immediate Release: July 22, 2011
Contact: Kristy Campbell, (703) 836-8602, [email protected]  

ACU Launches www.StopObamaBryson.com
~ ACU Chairman Cardenas Calls on Senators to Oppose John Bryson’s Confirmation ~ 

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) today announced the next phase of its national grassroots campaign to fight the confirmation of John Bryson, President Barack Obama’s nominee to serve as the next Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, launching www.StopObamaBryson.com. 

Bryson co-founded the Natural Resources Defense Council, which for 40 years has worked to impose mandates, expand government regulation, oppose economic development across the country and impose taxes on energy that are harmful to small business and would stifle job creation. In 2009, Bryson was a leading proponent of cap and trade legislation, which would have had the effect of imposing a national energy tax on every American consumer. 

“Despite the very serious economic challenges facing our country, President Obama has nominated John Bryson, a chief enemy of private sector job creation, to lead the U.S. Department of Commerce,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Today, the American Conservative Union launches our next salvo in this fight. Our new website, www.StopObamaByrson.com will be a powerful tool for educating Americans and advocating against the confirmation of John Bryson. Conservatives must lead the fight on this confirmation battle and vote against the reckless decisions President Obama is making regarding the future of our economy.” 

In partnership with Freedom Action, the ACU is leading an aggressive charge to defeat Bryson’s confirmation, including coalition-building, traditional and new media efforts and voter contact drives. The new coalition is educating Senators and voters on John Bryson’s history of supporting job-killing policies. 

Founded in 1964, the ACU is the oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization in the United States. For more information, on the American Conservative Union, please visit www.conservative.org. 

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