For Immediate Release: May 21, 2012
Contact: Larry Hart, (202) 550-5018, lhart@conservative.org

WASHINGTON, DC– The American Conservative Union (ACU) Political Action Committee (PAC) today endorsed Ann Wagner for Missouri’s second-district U.S. Congress seat, currently held by Congressman Todd Akin.

“Ann Wagner has a proven record of service to her country and community through promotion and preservation of true conservatism.  As Ambassador, she promoted American interests in the global arena.  Wagner will bring valuable business experience from her time in the private sector to join conservatives in the Congress working to address today’s challenges. Her election to Congress will be a victory for all Missourians,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The American Conservative Union PAC is proud to endorse her for Missouri’s Second District, and we look forward to working with her toward a victory in the November election.”

“I am honored to have earned the trust and endorsement from the American Conservative Union PAC and thank them for helping our campaign for Congress in Missouri’s 2nd District.  ACU can count on me in Congress to fight for core conservative principles and against those in Congress who think that more government, more tax revenue and increased spending are the answers to all the Nation’s ills.  I look forward to joining the fight next year in Congress.”

The ACU Political Action Committee is the political arm of the American Conservative Union, the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization. The committee supports candidates for office who reflect the conservative principles on which ACU was founded. The goals of the ACU PAC are to increase the number of quality candidates who share our commitment to conservative principles and to protecting and advancing the fiscal, social and security priorities of the Reagan era. These funds are utilized in conjunction with endorsements and public announcements to communicate our support for chosen candidates to their constituents and conservatives across the nation.

The ACU recently announced its 2011 Ratings of Congress, the 41st edition of the conservative ratings guide. For more information on the ACU PAC or to download the full 2011 Ratings of Congress, please visit www.conservative.org. To support, or learn more about, Ann Wagner, visit www.annwagner.com.

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas announced today that U.S. Representatives Tim Huelskamp (KS-1), Peter Roskam (IL-6) and Joe Walsh (IL-8) will address CPAC Chicago–the first of two regional Conservative Political Action Conferences slated for 2012.

Scheduled for Friday, June 8, 2012, CPAC Chicago takes the fight for the future of America directly to President Barack Obama’s backyard. The event will energize and mobilize Midwestern conservatives, giving them the tools needed to defeat the liberal agenda in 2012, while also featuring national conservative leaders such as U.S. Representative Michele Bachmann (MN-6), Herman Cain, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum, RNC Chairman Reince Priebus among many others, and highlighting rising conservative stars in the region.

“Republicans like Representative Huelskamp, Representative Roskam and Representative Walsh have been some of our most ardent champions in Congress working to stop or reverse many of the destructive policies pursued by this administration over its first term. They have held the Executive Branch accountable, supporting legislation that would cut waste and reduce the deficit,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “We will be proud to welcome Representatives Huelskamp, Roskam and Walsh to CPAC Chicago next month as conservatives take the fight for the future of our country directly to President Obama’s backyard.”

The ACU has hosted CPAC since 1974, and it now stands as the largest annual gathering of conservatives in the nation. When CPAC heads back on the road this summer for its second-ever regional event, ACU is teaming up with United to Restore Freedom (URF), home of Right Nation, and the Heartland Institute to bring national and regional leaders together with local grassroots activists 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.

CPAC Chicago will be held just minutes from O’Hare International Airport at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on June 8, 2012. To register for CPAC Chicago, receive more information on this exciting event, or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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.

 

For Immediate Release: May 9, 2012
Contact: Larry Hart, (202) 550-5018, lhart@conservative.org

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union Political Action Committee has endorsed George Allen for the U.S. Senate in Virginia in the Republican Primary June 12.

ACU Chairman Al Cardenas issued the following statement:

“George Allen is the clear choice for conservatives who want to win in Virginia this November.  George Allen’s lifetime American Conservative Union rating of 93 while serving in the Congress shows a consistent commitment to conservative principles on a wide range of issues.

In 2006, George Allen was one of only 35 Senators in a Republican dominated Senate to vote for a rules change that would have made it harder to increase federal spending each year. He later was one of only 41 Senators to vote for an amendment that would have forced Senators to disclose the earmarks they proposed.

Whether the issue is runaway spending, 2nd Amendment rights or the rights of the unborn, George Allen was there for conservatives.  I urge all conservatives to support George Allen in the Virginia Republican Primary June 12”

The ACU recently announced its 2011 Ratings of Congress, the 41st edition of the conservative ratings guide. For more information on the ACU PAC or to download the full 2011 Ratings of Congress, please visit conservative.org. To support, or learn more about, George Allen, visit www.georgeallen.com.

For Immediate Release: May 8, 2012
Contact: Anne Marie Frawley, (202) 347-9388, afrawley@conservative.org

WASHINGTON, DC –  The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas announced today that U.S. Senator Rand Paul will address CPAC Chicago – the first of two regional Conservative Political Action Conferences slated for 2012.

Scheduled for Friday, June 8, 2012, CPAC Chicago takes the fight for the future of America directly to President Barack Obama’s backyard. The event will energize and mobilize Midwestern conservatives, giving them the tools needed to defeat the liberal agenda in 2012, while also featuring national conservative leaders such as U.S. Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum, RNC Chairman Reince Priebus among many others, and highlighting rising conservative stars in the region. The conference agenda, released today, may be found at http://conservative.org/cpacchicago/program/agenda/.

“Senator Paul is among America’s most strident advocates for small government and individual liberty in the United States Senate,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “We are proud to welcome Senator Paul to Chicago this summer as conservatives take the fight for the future of our country directly to President Barack Obama’s backyard.”

The ACU has hosted CPAC since 1974, and it now stands as the largest annual gathering of conservatives in the nation. When CPAC heads back on the road this summer for its second-ever regional event, ACU is teaming up with United to Restore Freedom (URF), home of Right Nation, and the Heartland Institute to bring national and regional leaders together with local grassroots activists 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.

CPAC Chicago will be held just minutes from O’Hare International Airport at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on June 8, 2012. To register for CPAC Chicago, receive more information on this exciting event, or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

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.

 

For Immediate Release: May 3, 2012
Contact: Anne Marie Frawley, (202) 347-9388, afrawley@conservative.org

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum as a featured speaker in a lineup of conservative stars to address CPAC Chicago – the first of two regional Conservative Political Action Conferences slated for 2012.

Scheduled for Friday, June 8, 2012, CPAC Chicago takes the fight for the future of America directly to President Barack Obama’s backyard. The event will energize and mobilize Midwestern conservatives, giving them the tools needed to defeat the liberal agenda in 2012, while also featuring national conservative leaders, such as New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, Herman Cain, and highlighting prominent conservatives in the region.

“During the Presidential primary, Senator Santorum was an outspoken advocate of reigning in our ever-expanding federal government and ensuring that the Constitutional rights of all Americans are protected,“ said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas.   “We look forward to hosting Senator Santorum as part of our all-star lineup this summer at CPAC Chicago – the Midwest’s premier conservative gathering of 2012.”

The ACU has hosted CPAC since 1974, and it now stands as the largest annual gathering of conservatives in the nation. When CPAC heads back on the road this summer for its second-ever regional event, ACU is teaming up with United to Restore Freedom (URF), home of Right Nation, and The Heartland Institute to bring national and regional leaders together with local grassroots activists 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.

CPAC Chicago will be held just minutes from O’Hare International Airport at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on June 8, 2012. To register for CPAC Chicago, receive more information on this exciting event or learn more about the American Conservative Union, visit www.conservative.org.

 

For Immediate Release: May 2, 2012
Contact: Larry Hart, (202) 550-5018, lhart@conservative.org

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union has endorsed David Larsen in the 7th District Republican Primary on June 5th.

“David Larsen is the clear conservative choice in the Republican Primary.  On a wide range of issues, from reining in runaway spending, energy independence or the rights of the unborn, David Larsen supports the mainstream conservative position.  The incumbent, Leonard Lance received one of the lowest ratings for a Republican in the entire congress in 2011, 44 out of 100, showing that he is clearly out of the mainstream for conservatives,” said ACU Al Cardenas, “The ACU PAC urges all conservatives in New Jersey’s 7th District to support David Larsen in the Republican Primary June 5th.”

“As one of our nation’s most historic and prestigious conservative organizations, I am honored to have earned the endorsement of the American Conservative Union,” said David Larsen. “For close to fifty years, the organization has played a leadership role in promoting economic growth through lower taxes and reduced government spending. Led by Chairman Al Cardenas, ACU continues to be a driving force in advancing conservative thought along with the values and principles necessary to restore the American Dream.”

The ACU recently announced its 2011 Ratings of Congress, the 41st edition of the conservative ratings guide. For more information on the ACU PAC or to download the full 2011 Ratings of Congress, please visit www.conservative.org. To support, or learn more about, David Larsen, visit www.davidlarsenforcongress.com.

For Immediate Release: April 25, 2012

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

ACU Announces Congresswoman Michele Bachmann to Address CPAC Chicago
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Partners with Right Nation and The Heartland Institute to Host Midwest’s Premier Conservative Gathering in Summer 2012

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced U.S. Representative Michele Bachmann (R – MN) will be a featured speaker at CPAC Chicago – the first of two regional Conservative Political Action Conferences slated for 2012. Representative Bachmann recently received an “ACU Conservative” award for her strong conservative record in the 2011 ACU Ratings of Congress.

Scheduled for Friday, June 8, 2012, CPAC Chicago takes the fight for the future of America directly to President Barack Obama’s backyard. The event will energize and mobilize Midwestern conservatives, giving them the tools needed to defeat the liberal agenda in 2012, while also featuring national conservative leaders, such as Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and Herman Cain, and highlighting rising conservative stars in the region.

“As a Presidential Candidate, Congresswoman Bachmann continued her strong advocacy of conservative principles, which she has championed throughout her time in public service.  We are thrilled to have Congresswoman Bachmann help us bring our message of more freedom and more prosperity to the President’s backyard,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “We look forward to hosting an all-star lineup this summer at CPAC Chicago – the Midwest’s premier conservative gathering of 2012.”

The ACU has hosted CPAC since 1974, and it now stands as the largest annual gathering of conservatives in the nation. When CPAC heads back on the road this summer for its second-ever regional event, ACU is teaming up with United to Restore Freedom (URF), home of Right Nation, and The Heartland Institute to bring national and regional leaders together with local grassroots activists 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.

CPAC Chicago will be held just minutes from O’Hare International Airport at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on June 8, 2012. To register for CPAC Chicago, 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: April 18, 2012

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

ACU Announces Senator Ron Johnson, Representative Randy Hultgren to Address CPAC Chicago
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Partners with Right Nation and The Heartland Institute  to Host Midwest’s Premier Conservative Gathering in Summer 2012

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R – WI) and U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (R – IL) will be featured speakers at CPAC Chicago – the first of two regional Conservative Political Action Conferences slated for 2012. On the recently announced ACU 2011 Ratings of Congress, Senator Johnson received a “Defender of Liberty” award for his perfect 100 percent score, and Representative Hultgren was honored with the “ACU Conservative” award for his strong conservative voting record.

Scheduled for Friday, June 8, 2012, CPAC Chicago takes the fight for the future of America directly to President Barack Obama’s backyard. The event will energize and mobilize Midwestern conservatives, giving them the tools needed to defeat the liberal agenda in 2012, while also featuring national conservative leaders, such as Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and Herman Cain, and highlighting rising conservative stars in the region.

“Senator Johnson is one of the Senate’s strongest voices for freedom and prosperity and we are proud to welcome him to CPAC Chicago. We are also very pleased to have Illinois’ native son Congressman Randy Hultgren at our event to help us highlight liberal policies that have stunted the Prairie State’s economy and the conservative solutions needed to jumpstart recovery and create jobs,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “We look forward to hosting an all-star lineup this summer at CPAC Chicago – the Midwest’s premier conservative gathering of 2012.”

The ACU has hosted CPAC since 1974, and it now stands as the largest annual gathering of conservatives in the nation. When CPAC heads back on the road this summer for its second-ever regional event, ACU is teaming up with United to Restore Freedom (URF), home of Right Nation, and The Heartland Institute to bring national and regional leaders together with local grassroots activists 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.

CPAC Chicago will be held just minutes from O’Hare International Airport at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on June 8, 2012. To register for CPAC Chicago, 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: April 17, 2012

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

American Conservative Union PAC Endorses Congressman Connie Mack for U.S. Senate
Congressman Mack Earns “ACU Conservative” Award on 2011 Ratings of Congress

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Political Action Committee (PAC) today endorsed Congressman Connie Mack (FL – 14) for Florida’s U.S. Senate seat, currently held by Senator Bill Nelson. Congressman Mack received the “ACU Conservative” award for his score on the recently announced ACU 2011 Ratings of Congress.

“From his proven leadership on pro-growth economic policies and energy independence solutions to his courageous efforts to bring attention to dangerous and tyrannical regimes across the world, it is clear Connie Mack is the innovative, conservative leader ready to take on Bill Nelson this fall,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “Liberals in the Senate have rubberstamped President Obama’s agenda, and now it is time for voters to hold them accountable. Congressman Mack is one of many great conservatives running for Senate across the country, and the American Conservative Union PAC is proud to endorse him. The ACU PAC urges all Florida conservatives to support Connie Mack for U.S. Senate, and we look forward to aiding his victory in both the primary and general elections.”

“I thank Chairman Cardenas and the American Conservative Union for their strong support of my campaign to defeat Bill Nelson in November,” said Congressman Connie Mack. “With the help and support of conservatives across the Sunshine State, I will continue to fight for freedom, security and prosperity – fundamental ideals critical to reclaiming American Exceptionalism.” 

The ACU Political Action Committee is the political arm of the American Conservative Union, the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization. The committee supports candidates for office who reflect the conservative principles on which ACU was founded. The goals of the ACU PAC are to increase the number of quality candidates who share our commitment to conservative principles and to protecting and advancing the fiscal, social and security priorities of the Reagan era. These funds are utilized in conjunction with endorsements and public announcements to communicate our support for chosen candidates to their constituents and conservatives across the nation.

The ACU recently announced its 2011 Ratings of Congress, the 41^st edition of the conservative ratings guide. For more information on the ACU PAC or to download the full 2011 Ratings of Congress, please visit www.conservative.org. To support, or learn more about, Congressman Connie Mack, visit www.conniemack.com.

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For Immediate Release: April 5, 2012

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

ACU Announces Governor Bobby Jindal to Address CPAC Chicago
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Partners with Right Nation and The Heartland Institute  to Host Midwest’s Premier Conservative Gathering in Summer 2012

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal will be a featured speaker at CPAC Chicago – the first of two regional Conservative Political Action Conferences slated for 2012. Scheduled for Friday, June 8, 2012, CPAC Chicago will energize and mobilize Midwestern conservatives, giving them the tools needed to defeat the liberal agenda in 2012, while also featuring national conservative leaders and highlighting rising conservative stars in the region.

“Governor Jindal’s record of results and continuing popularity in the Pelican State are evidence conservative solutions work. From economic development to education and governmental reform, Governor Jindal continues to challenge the status quo as one of America’s most impressive chief executives,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “We are proud to welcome Governor Jindal to Chicago this summer as conservatives take the fight for the future of our country directly to President Barack Obama’s backyard.”

The ACU has hosted CPAC since 1974, and it now stands as the largest annual gathering of conservatives in the nation. When CPAC heads back on the road this summer for its second-ever regional event, ACU is teaming up with United to Restore Freedom (URF), home of Right Nation, and The Heartland Institute to bring national and regional leaders together with local grassroots activists 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.

CPAC Chicago will be held just minutes from O’Hare International Airport at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on June 8, 2012. To register for CPAC Chicago, 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: March 28, 2012

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

 ACU Chairman Al Cardenas’ Letter to Republican Members of Congress Regarding the Next Generation Television Marketplace Act

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas sent the following letter to Republican members of the Congress regarding HR 3675 and S 2008, the Next Generation Television Marketplace Act.

Full text of the letter can be found below:

March 28, 2012

Dear Member of Congress,

On behalf of the American Conservative Union and the conservative membership we represent, we urge that you critically review HR 3675 and S 2008, the Next Generation Television Marketplace Act, as “deregulatory” legislation.  Senator Jim DeMint is to be commended for trying to reduce unnecessary regulations and there are provisions in the bill we would consider supporting.  However, one of the major outcomes of the bill would be to strip away the negotiation process known as “retransmission consent.”  This process created a marketplace to ensure that broadcasters were compensated by pay-tv providers for the use of their signal and content.

In 1992 Congress set up “retransmission consent” – a process by which broadcasters and the pay-tv industry would have to negotiate with each other for the use of the broadcast signal.  This prevented the pay-tv industry’s previous practice of using the signal for free and then profiting from its retransmission by selling the broadcasters’ content as part of their basic service.

The programming that is most viewed today is still produced by broadcasting companies.  Broadcasters take risks by investing significant amounts of money into content production and marketing, and should have the right of determining its distribution.

Despite what you might hear, under the present system there is no epidemic of service interruptions that adversely affect consumers and cause them to miss widely-viewed events like the Super Bowl.  In fact this is a marketplace in which over 99 percent of negotiations are settled with no service interruptions.   

The reality is that today we have a functioning market in which opposing parties are able to bring value to the negotiating table.  By stripping away the right to compensation for the use of the signal the government would be tipping the scales heavily to the side of the pay-tv companies.  It would distort the marketplace and allow an uncompensated use of broadcast signals and content and is certainly not “deregulation.”  So we urge you to oppose the retransmission consent provisions contained in HR 3675 and S 2008.

Sincerely ,

Al Cardenas
Chairman, 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: March 8, 2012

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

 ACU Calls on Senators to Oppose Menendez/Burr “NAT GAS” Act
Amendment to Senate Highway Bill 

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas sent the following letter to Republican members of the Senate, calling on them to oppose the Menendez/Burr “NAT GAS” Act Amendment (1782) to the Senate Highway Bill (S. 1813)

The ACU has spearheaded efforts to defeat similar legislation in the House of Representatives. Since the beginning of the ACU advocacy campaign to oppose T. Boone Pickens’ $9 billion energy proposal, 20 House Republicans have withdrawn their co-sponsorship.

Full text of the letter can be found below:

March 7, 2012

Dear Senator:

On behalf of the American Conservative Union, I strongly urge you to oppose any effort to attach S. 1863, T. Boone Pickens’ and Senator Harry Reid’s so-called NAT GAS Act, to the pending highway bill.

As we informed you when the bill was introduced, this bill is a variation on HR 1380, which has languished in the House because 20 members have removed themselves as co-sponsors after realizing this bill would move our energy policy in the wrong direction and cost taxpayers billions.

The bill dramatically expands the subsidy for natural gas vehicle purchases up to $64,000. At the same time, the bill calls for a tax increase on natural gas fuel. Yes, the very same people who are subsidized on the one hand would then pay an extra tax on the other. Of course, they would only learn of this “pay-for” in the years to come.

This is another attempt at government picking winners and losers in the marketplace that we hope Republicans will vigorously oppose. As we struggle with a depressed national economy and sustained high unemployment, the last thing we need is the government spending billions of taxpayer dollars subsidizing natural gas vehicles. 

Should this issue come to a vote as an amendment to the pending highway bill, ACU will vigorously oppose the amendment and seriously consider this vote for inclusion in the ACU 2012 Ratings of Congress. 

We strongly urge your opposition to Senator Reid’s deceptive efforts to pass the NAT GAS Act under the cloak of the Senate’s highway bill.

Sincerely,

Al Cardenas
Chairman, 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: March 1, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

ACU Chairman Al Cardenas on the Passing of Conservative Warrior Andrew Breitbart

 WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today issued the following statement regarding the passing of conservative movement leader Andrew Breitbart.

“Andrew Breitbart was one of the most influential, fearless and passionate conservative voices in America. His tragic passing is a loss the conservative movement will feel deeply for years to come.

“From founding and publishing some of the leading conservative news outlets to his news-breaking coverage of some of the most important moments in recent political history, Andrew was a visionary. He never backed down from a fight, passionately defended his beliefs, exposed media bias and introduced conservative principles to a new generation of young Americans.

“We will miss our friend, the happy, courageous warrior, but learn from his example and continue battling for the causes of freedom, liberty and justice.

“The thoughts and prayers of hundreds of thousands of American Conservative Union members and supporters across the country are with Andrew’s family at this very difficult time.”

As we remember Andrew Breitbart today, please take a moment to view his final speech to the Conservative Political Action Conference: http://conservative.org/cpaclive/.

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.  For more information on the ACU, visit www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: March 1, 2012

Contact: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

American Conservative Union Announces 2011 Ratings of Congress
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Unveils 41^st Edition of Congressional Ratings Guide

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced the 2011 ACU Ratings of Congress, the 41^st edition of the conservative ratings guide. Since 1971, the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative organization has annually graded Members of Congress based on their votes on key conservative issues. The full 2011 ACU Ratings of Congress guide is now available online at www.conservative.org.

“With government growing faster than at any other time in the history of our country, the American Conservative Union continues to play a major role in giving the American people the tools they need to make informed voting decisions at every level of government,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “On behalf of our entire Board of Directors, I applaud and thank the many Senators and Representatives who achieved perfect or high scores on our 2011 ACU Ratings of Congress. Their unwavering commitment to our shared conservative principles stands in stark contrast to the liberals in Washington who continue to rubberstamp President Obama’s failed agenda for America.”

The ACU tracks a wide range of issues before Congress 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 by the ACU are not always considered the “most important” votes as defined by others, instead the votes selected are chosen to create a clear ideological distinction among those casting them. With its annual ratings, ACU’s mission is informing grassroots conservatives and the public – in an unbiased, transparent manner – on where individual members of Congress fall on the ideological spectrum.

The 2011 ACU Ratings of Congress includes scores for each individual member in both the 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,” – those scoring a perfect 100 percent – or “ACU Conservatives” – those scoring 80 percent or higher. The full guide can be accessed and downloaded now at www.conservative.org.

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. 

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

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For Immediate Release: February 16, 2012
Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org 

ACU Launches National Ad Campaign for a Conservative Congress
Country’s Leading Conservative Organization Airing Radio Ads in 17 Media Markets,
Supporting Conservatives in Congress

WASHINGTON, DC – American Conservative Union (ACU) Chairman Al Cardenas today announced a new national ad campaign to  educate constituents on the strong conservative voting records of 17 members of Congress.  The new sixty-second radio ads launched on the eve of the Conservative Political Action Conference and continue on air through mid next week. The buy totals several hundred thousand dollars and is the ACU’s first major paid advocacy effort of the 2012 campaign cycle.

“One of the American Conservative Union’s chief goals is ensuring constituents and voters across the nation know where their elected representatives stand on the issues most important to conservatives,” said ACU Chairman Al Cardenas. “The ACU is proud to launch our first national ad campaign of the 2012 cycle in 17 key districts, and will continue our education efforts in support of strong conservative values across the country.”

The new sixty-second radio ads are airing in support of the following Republicans in Congress:

• U.S. Representative Sandy Adams (FL-24)
• U.S. Representative Rep. Larry Buschon (IN-8)
• U.S. Representative Sean Duffy (WI-7)
• U.S. Representative Renee Ellmers (NC-2)
• U.S. Representative Blake Farenthold (TX-27)
• U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-3)
• U.S. Representative Stephen Fincher (TN-8)
• U.S. Representative Cory Gardner (CO-4)
• U.S. Representative Frank Guinta (NH-1)
• U.S. Representative Robert Hurt (VA-5)
• U.S. Representative Lynn Jenkins (KS-2)
• U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (PA-3)
• U.S. Representative Steven Palazzo (MS-4)
• U.S. Representative Mike Pompeo (KS-4)
• U.S. Representative Martha Roby (AL-2)
• U.S. Representative Bobby Schilling (IL-17)
• U.S. Representative Kevin Yoder (KS-3)

Produced by OnMessage Inc., the new ACU radio ad is titled “Brakes,” and includes the following script, featured in all 17 ads:

SFX: Car speeding out of control.

ANNCR: When Nancy Pelosi ran Congress….the federal government ran out of control.

Trillions in wasteful spending. Massive government programs. Radical environmental regulations.

Dangerous liberal policies….that made our economy worse.

SFX: Brakes skid

ANNCR: But now the American people are putting the brakes on the Obama agenda.

And Congresswoman Sandy Adams is at the front of the fight.

SFX: Music underneath

ANNCR: Sandy Adams is a national leader in the battle to repeal the Obama takeover of health care.

Sandy Adams is pushing for conservative budget reform to cut spending NOW.

And Sandy Adams is standing up to the Obama regulations that are strangling our economy.

Independent. Unafraid. Conservative. Congresswoman Sandy Adams.

ANNCR TWO: The American Conservative Union paid for and is responsible for the content of this advertising.  Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.  We’re America’s oldest and largest conservative organization.  Join us by logging on to conservative dot o-r-g.

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, please visit our website at www.conservative.org.

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For Immediate Release: February 2, 2012

Contacts: Kristy Campbell, (202) 347-9388, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

 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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org   

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

                  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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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, KCampbell@conservative.org  

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, KCampbell@conservative.org

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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