Email insights: Intercessors for America offers advice to Alabama voters
The eyes of the nation are focused on Alabama right now where a highly sought after U.S. Senate seat is on the line. There, Republican Roy Moore — who faces allegations of sexual misconduct, faces former federal prosecutor Doug Jones, who is trying to capitalize on the controversy surrounding Moore in order to win the seat in a state that has not sent a Democrat to the Senate in 25 years. Groups across the country are weighing-in with the opinions and advice to Alabamians with what they should do at the ballot box Tuesday. But rather than taking a particular side in the contentious race, Intercessors for America — a non-profit ministry organization that endeavors to inform praying Christians about national, state, and local prayer concerns — is giving to all Christians about the state of affairs in Alabama. On Monday, they sent an email about the Alabama Senate race and offered the following advice: Subject: Have you wondered how to pray about Roy Moore? Christians have been praying about the moral fabric of this nation, and for truth and integrity to be restored. Headlines in the past few weeks have shown an avalanche of accusations brought against various elected officials, media moguls, and high-profile personalities. Whether the allegations in all these cases are true or false, is yet to be seen. However, as praying Christians, we should know how to respond to such reports of wrong-doing and pray effectively to see a righteous outcome. Consider the following principles from Scripture as you lift up these leaders and public figures in prayer: Test everything you hear. And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ (Philippians 1:9). With social media becoming the primary source of news for many, it is tempting to accept everything that is written and reported as fact. Wise and discerning believers will take the time to search out the truth and confirm the facts before reaching a conclusion (Job 12:11). This is the time to pray as Paul did, that we would perceive that which is true, and discard that which is false. Consider the source. Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world (1 John 4:1). There is a difference between false accusations from the enemy and a convicting work of the Holy Spirit. We must consider the source of information and validate the reliability and integrity of each report. Pray that reliable sources would clarify the matter and that enemy interference would be exposed. Watch for valid agreement. One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). We must watch that any charges or accusations brought against individuals are supported by numerous testimonies that have been proven true. In today’s social media environment, any political or religious “enemy” can start vicious rumors. Intercessors can pray for each matter to be settled by enough reputable sources so appropriate actions can be taken. Focus on what is true. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Philippians 4:8). The enemy will draw our attention to gossip, slander, half-truths, and outright lies. Discerning believers will look for what is true and what has born good fruit. Pray that God’s perspective would override the enemy’s and that God’s report would overturn the world’s. See everyone through the eyes of Grace. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus (Romans 3:23). If charges of misconduct have been verified and proven, God’s desire and longing is to free those who are in bondage to sin. We cannot pray effectively for someone we don’t love as Christ does. Getting rid of any personal presumptions or opinions will clear the way to apply the word of God more accurately. If our priority is to pray for a person’s salvation and redemption, our prayers will be rightly focused. Demonstrate a Christ-like attitude. Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy (Proverbs 28:13). As more and more leaders are being attacked and accused, it is critical for believers to demonstrate a Christ-like response, and model the power of redemption to a broken culture. Whether we are guilty or not, we can be an example of God’s grace at work. Where the world knows no grace, we can go to the throne of Grace (Hebrews 4:16). If we are guilty, God’s Grace is available to pardon and set us free. And, where there is no guilt, that same Grace empowers us to stand in full assurance of God’s ability to vindicate and validate our witness. In the current climate of increased hostility towards those who follow Christ, let us stand in the gap for those who are being attacked and determine to stand together for Truth. May our lives reflect the truths we preach, and may our prayers carry the authority of those who walk righteously with their God.
Email insights: Roy Moore campaign questions whether Doug Jones is the grinch
With less than two weeks to go to Alabama’s Dec. 12 special election, Republican Senate hopeful Roy Moore‘s campaign is questioning whether or not his opponent, Democrat Doug Jones is the Christmas grinch. In a Thursday email, the campaign questioned Jones asking him “what kind of tax relief” he will support. The campaign asked, “Will Doug Jones support tax cuts as a Christmas gift for Alabama’s families, or will he be the grinch?” as the first in a series 12 Christmas questions they will ask of Jones. “I will support any cut to the federal income tax on individuals and on corporations,” Moore was quoted as saying in the email. Read the full email below: As we move into the most wonderful time of the year, the Moore Campaign asked Doug Jones the first in a series of 12 Christmas questions. Christmas Question #1: Will Doug Jones support tax cuts as a Christmas gift for Alabama’s families, or will he be the grinch? According to a recent news article, the Jones campaign declined to answer questions about whether Jones would support raising taxes and how he would pay for the programs he champions. Given the importance of tax relief, we’d like to put forth the question again: Doug Jones, what kind of tax relief will you support? “As your next United States Senator,” Judge Moore said on Thursday, “I will support any cut to the federal income tax on individuals and on corporations. The federal government has grown too large and we have given bureaucrats and politicians too much power over our economy and our small businesses.” “I support President Trump’s effort to bring tax relief to America the people of America, and while I support any kind of tax cut, I will work to make the senate’s cuts even larger. In fact, this initial effort to cut taxes should be the first step towards achieving either a 15% across the board flat tax for both individuals and corporations or a national consumption tax, also known as the Fair Tax, which would tax individuals and corporations on what they spend rather than on what they earn.” “The establishment Republican leadership is once again disappointing Americans by playing on the fringes of reform,” Moore continued. “For America’s economy to be great again, we must be aggressive, without regard for the whining of the left who constantly affirm the federal government as their god.”
Email insights: Conservative PAC makes a case for Roy Moore in run-off race
Days after former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore took home the most votes in the Republican primary, advancing to the run-off election and potentially moving one step closer to the U.S. Senate, one PAC is making a case for why he should win the run-off over Sen. Luther Strange. In a Friday email the conservative, Baton Rouge-based Solution Fund PAC emailed Moore’s supporters saying a Republican is expected to win the general election, but if Strange wins over Moore that it’s essentially a loss for Alabama conservatives. “How many times do we see that a Republican wins the seat, but conservatives lose it? And with our almost non-existent “majority”, we cannot afford to lose another seat,” the email read. The PAC also made the argument against Strange for accepting former Gov. Robert Bentley‘s appointment to the seat whilst investigating him. “Judge Moore’s opponent, Luther Strange, has the title of ‘incumbent’ Senator only because he was appointed by disgraced former Gov. Robert Bentley — while supposedly ‘investigating’ Bentley for the crimes that eventually drove Bentley from the governorship in shame. It’s the old boy network at its worst,” the email reads. Moore faces Strange in a run-off Sept. 26. The winner will advance to a Dec. 12 general election where they will face Democrat Doug Jones. Read the full email from Moore’s campaign below: Conservatives FINALLY won a big Senate primary: but can we hold it? On Tuesday, conservative Judge Roy Moore (“The Ten Commandments Judge”) came in first place in the Alabama GOP Senate primary, despite being slandered, defamed, and heavily outspent by liberal PACs aligned with gutless Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. But there were 9 candidates in the race, so Judge Moore unfortunately did not break the 50% barrier. That means he now faces a run-off against scandal-plagued liberal Republican Luther Strange. Please, please, PLEASE help us to make sure Judge Moore makes it through that runoff! You see, the Republican nominee is almost certain to win in November, but if Luther Strange beats Judge Moore for the nomination, it’s the same thing as losing that seat, even if Strange wins in November, as expected. How many times do we see that a Republican wins the seat, but conservatives lose it? And with our almost non-existent “majority”, we cannot afford to lose another seat. Judge Moore’s opponent, Luther Strange, has the title of “incumbent” Senator only because he was appointed by disgraced former Gov. Robert Bentley — while supposedly “investigating” Bentley for the crimes that eventually drove Bentley from the governorship in shame. It’s the old boy network at its worst. All of the solid, traditional conservatives have lined up behind Roy Moore, of course, as have celebrities like Chuck Norris and Phil Robertson. Poll volunteers handed voters a card with Franklin Graham’s words of support for the judge as well. True conservatives love Judge Moore’s unflinching support for restoring our military, repealing Obamacare, building the wall on our southern border, protecting the rights of gun owners, and smashing “Sanctuary Cities.” They especially love that he is a devout Christian and a true constitutional scholar, who will in all things respect our constitution as the Framers intended. Yes, it’s fantastic that an unflinching conservative like Judge Moore came in first in that initial primary, but it is quite ominous that Moore was outspent by McConnell and his cronies by a factor of more than twenty to one. Very, very scary numbers! If you are in a position to help us push Judge Moore past that runoff, click on this secure link to donate. Plus, we know beyond the shadow of a doubt that McConnell and company will spend even more money in the runoff now that it’s down to Strange and Moore. And we know why. They HATE anyone they know they can’t control. Judge Roy Moore is one of those rare birds who genuinely cares more about his country and the constitution than he does about pleasing Mitch or the media or the lobbyists or anybody else. In fact, he’s already proven it: twice. Judge Moore was removed from the Alabama state Supreme Court when he stood on principle and refused to allow liberals in the federal judiciary to strip Alabama state courthouses of copies of the Ten Commandments. It was an issue of state sovereignty — and the idiocy of claiming that the Ten Commandments could possibly violate anyone’s right to worship as he pleased. Judge Moore was right, of course, but the more important point is that he was willing to let that issue cost him his job as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court! He gave up that seat rather than compromise his values. How many politicians do you know who would do that? The good people of Alabama proceeded to vote Judge Moore right back onto the Supreme Court, where he ran into another matter of conscience: federal courts trying to tell Alabama that homosexual marriage had to be recognized by Alabama courts. Rather than give in, Judge Moore continued to fight the good fight. He wrote a memo to judicial officers admonishing them that they must obey the laws of the sovereign state of Alabama, rather than the federal edict attempting to create homosexual marriage. Once again they came after him and ordered that he be suspended from the court. And once again he was out of a job — rather than bend to the Left, he went down fighting, no matter what it cost him. Isn’t that the kind of approach we need in the Senate right now? Someone who cares more about his MISSION than his POSITION? A man who is willing to stand on principle rather than do as the misguided and cowardly leadership tells him? My friend, you know as well as I do that our so-called majority in the Senate is only 52 out of 100 votes, and half of those can’t be trusted most the time. The failed Obamacare vote and a dozen other similar tests have proven that we do not really have a majority. We need more seats! We may pick up a few in 2018, but Judge Moore’s
Email insights: Roy Moore declares himself the ‘firebrand conservative change agent”
In a weekend email to his supporters, former Alabama Chief Justice and current U.S. Senate candidate Roy Moore declared himself the “firebrand conservative change agent” in the senate race. “I’m writing you as the firebrand conservative change agent running for U.S. Senate against Mitch McConnell’s hand-picked candidate in the upcoming August 15 special election to fill the seat held by Attorney General Jeff Sessions,” Moore said in the email. Without naming names, Moore consistently refers to sitting U.S. Sen. Luther Strange as McConnell’s hand-picked candidate. Saying McConnell-controlled outside groups have already lined up more than $10 MILLION to replace Sessions Strange — “a former D.C. lobbyist turned politician guaranteed to do the establishment’s bidding in Washington.” Moore goes to say if elected, he’ll stand with Senators Rand Paul, Mike Lee and Ted Cruz to “fight against the Washington Establishment” accomplish his policy goals, which include: Rebuild our military, crack down on illegal immigration and secure our borders; Repeal ObamaCare — 100%; Stop liberal judges that threaten religious liberty and the Second Amendment; Return American manufacturing to our nation by rescinding unfair “free trade” agreements which have severely damaged our economy through the loss of jobs and skill development; FIGHT tooth-and-nail with everything I’ve got against the entrenched establishment with everything I’ve got. Read Moore’s full email below: Friend, After defeating Hillary Clinton and electing a Republican Majority in Congress, there’s only one obstacle left standing in the way of passing real conservative reforms through Congress . . . . . . and that’s establishment Republicans like Mitch McConnell, Lindsey Graham and the rest of the insiders in Washington. My name is Judge Roy Moore. You may know me as “The Ten Commandments Judge” because of my long time support of displaying The Ten Commandments at the Alabama Supreme Court. But today I’m writing you as the firebrand conservative change agent running for U.S. Senate against Mitch McConnell’s hand-picked candidate in the upcoming August 15 special election to fill the seat held by Attorney General Jeff Sessions. If you’ve had enough of Mitch McConnell and the Washington establishment, I’m counting on you to chip in a donation to my campaign’s “Defeat the Establishment Money Bomb” to help me get to Washington and TRUMP THE SENATE! Friend, according to most political experts, the upcoming August 15 Republican Primary is the most important special election of the year because it’s the first MAJOR showdown between Mitch McConnell and grassroots conservatives of Donald Trump’s Presidency. In fact, U.S. News and World Report are calling it “GROUND ZERO in the political and cultural war” taking place right now in America. You see, right now there are 9 Republican candidates running on the August 15 Primary ballot. As it stands, I’m currently running neck-and-neck with Mitch McConnell’s hand-picked candidate. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote on August 15, the top two candidates face off in a run-off on election September 26. That’s why Mitch McConnell-controlled outside groups have already lined up more than $10 MILLION to replace Jeff Sessions with a former D.C. lobbyist turned politician guaranteed to do the establishment’s bidding in Washington. The stakes are simply too high for McConnell not to go all-out to defeat me and try to keep me out of Washington. They know if I’m the next U.S. Senator from the great state of Alabama, I’ll stand with Rand Paul, Mike Lee and Ted Cruz on the frontlines of the fight against the Washington Establishment. I’ll stand against the weak-kneed Republican establishment and fight to: >>> Rebuild our military, crack down on illegal immigration and secure our borders; >>> Repeal ObamaCare — 100%; >>> Stop liberal judges that threaten religious liberty and the Second Amendment; >>> Return American manufacturing to our nation by rescinding unfair “free trade” agreements which have severely damaged our economy through the loss of jobs and skill development; >>> FIGHT tooth-and-nail with everything I’ve got against the entrenched establishment with everything I’ve got. Senators Rand Paul, Mike Lee and Ted Cruz need one true conservative to have the votes to END Mitch McConnell’s rein over the U.S. Senate. I am that candidate. And I’ve got a 15-year track record to back it up. So can I count on you to chip in a donation to help me TRUMP THE SENATE on August 15? My campaign team just finished putting the finishing touches on an aggressive mail, Internet, TV and radio ad 3-week battle plan designed to reach as many conservative voters across Alabama as possible with our winning message. But in order to execute this aggressive battle plan to defeat the establishment, I must be able to raise $100,000 by 11:59 PM on Monday, July 31, 2017. That’s why I’m counting on you to chip in a generous contribution of $2,700, $2,000, $1,500, $1,000, $500, $250, $100, $75, $50 or $35 right away. Your contribution will help me pay for advertisements, mailings, yard signs, flyers and other costs associated with executing our battle plan to defeat the establishment. Not only that, but it will help keep our hard-hitting TV ad up and running through Election Day. Of course, I understand only a few people are able to afford $2,700 ($5,400 per couple) — the maximum legal amount under federal law. If you are such a person, I believe this race is an investment worth making. But I also understand that $250 or $100 may be all many folks can give. In fact, I know for some, $25 or $35 is a stretch. And for others — $5 or $10 can be a major sacrifice. Whatever amount you can afford to donate at this time, please know your contribution is greatly appreciated and will be put to immediate use for my campaign. And I pledge to be a careful steward of your trust. I’m confident you and I are on the verge of defeating the establishment and taking our country back. But we must not let up now. So please stand with me in this historic fight against Washington by chipping in a generous contribution to my Defeat the Establishment Money Bomb. Thank you in advance for
Email insights: Roy Moore goes after the establishment, Luther Strange in latest email
In his latest campaign email, former Alabama Chief Justice and current U.S. Senate candidate Roy Moore made an offensive move against the GOP “establishment” — the permanent political class and structure that makes up the Republican Party — and in doing so, called out Sen. Luther Strange. “‘An avalanche of TV and media buys for Big Luther.’ That’s how one recent news report described the millions of dollars pouring into Alabama as part of the Washington establishment’s scheme to replace Jeff Sessions with Mitch McConnell’s hand-picked crony,” said Moore in the email. “I need your help to fight back.” Moore went on to explain that he’s topped the latest polls, and thus the Washington “establishment” is doing all they can to stop him from winning the GOP nomination next month. “That’s why Mitch McConnell and his big money boys have singled me out as someone they must defeat in order to keep the big government spending train running full steam ahead in Washington.” Moore will face off against Strange, and other GOP candidates including Alabama 5th District U.S. Rep. field Mo Brooks, on August 15. A primary runoff, if necessary, will be Sept. 26 and the general election is scheduled for Dec. 12. Read the full email from Moore below: Friend, “An avalanche of TV and media buys for Big Luther.” That’s how one recent news report described the millions of dollars pouring into Alabama as part of the Washington establishment’s scheme to replace Jeff Sessions with Mitch McConnell’s hand-picked crony. I need your help to fight back. So won’t you please chip in a generous contribution to my “Defeat the Establishment” Money Bomb before the July 31 midnight deadline? You see, according to the latest polls — I’m currently the front runner heading into the final stretch before the upcoming August 15 Republican Primary. But the Washington establishment is desperate to replace conservative Jeff Sessions with a former D.C. lobbyist turned politician guaranteed to do their bidding. That’s why Mitch McConnell and his big money boys have singled me out as someone they must defeat in order to keep the big government spending train running full steam ahead in Washington. They couldn’t control Jeff Sessions. And they know they won’t control me. I have a 15-year track record of standing up and fighting with everything I’ve got to defend individual liberty and Constitutional government. If elected to the U.S. Senate, they know I’ll stand with you and lead other conservative Senators like Ted Cruz, Mike Lee and Rand Paul on the frontline of the fight to block Mitch McConnell’s betrayal and send President Trump a bill that REPEALS OBAMACARE – 100%! But the best ideas in the world don’t amount to anything if they aren’t heard. With less than four weeks left until the August 15 Republican Primary, I must be able to count on your continued support for my campaign. As I told you recently, my campaign team just finished putting the finishing touches on an aggressive 5-week battle plan designed to reach as many conservative voters across Alabama as possible with our winning message. I’m talking hard-hitting radio and TV ads across Alabama . . . A highly-targeted direct mail program to get our conservative message out far and wide . . . Facebook, Google and Internet digital ads letting voters know the truth about my establishment opponent and showing them the clear choice they have on August 15. . . The whole nine yards! But Friend, in order to execute this aggressive battle plan to defeat the establishment, I must be able to raise $100,000 by 11:59 PM on Monday, July 31, 2017. That’s why I’m counting on you to chip in an immediate contribution to my campaign’s Defeat the Establishment Money Bomb. Your contribution will help me pay for the advertisements, mailings, yard signs, flyers and other costs associated with executing our battle plan to defeat the establishment mentioned earlier. Some folks may be able to contribute $2,700 ($5,400 per couple) — the maximum legal amount under federal law. If you’re one of those individuals, I ask you to please make a maximum contribution today. But I understand most folks may only be able to afford $25 or $35 at this time. For some folks, $10 is a sacrifice right now. But every dollar matters — especially in a special election like this. I’m confident you and I are on the verge of defeating the establishment and taking our country back. But we must not let up now. So please stand with me in this historic fight against Washington by chipping in a generous contribution to my Defeat the Establishment Money Bomb. Thank you in advance for your support. God Bless, Judge Roy Moore
Email insights: Mark Meadows endorses Mo Brooks, asks for support
Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus and North Carolina 11th District U.S. Rep. Mark Meadows has endorsed Alabama 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks in the Alabama special election to fill the seat left vacant by former Sen. Jeff Sessions, when he accepted the Attorney General of the United States position in February. Meadows emailed conservatives of his endorsement asking them to also support Brooks’ campaign. Read Meadows’ email below: Dear Conservative, There’s been a lot of talk lately about what it means to be a true conservative. And Lord knows, we could use a few more “true conservatives” in the United States Senate. That’s why I am writing you today. I’m Congressman Mark Meadows, I’m the chairman of the House Freedom Caucus. My friend and fellow Freedom Caucus member Mo Brooks is running for Jeff Sessions’ Senate seat that was vacated when President Trump appointed Sessions as Attorney General. Mo Brooks is a fighter. He has the most conservative voting record in the Alabama congressional delegation. He’s got an A-rating from Numbers USA and the NRA. He has proven himself to be a proven constitutional conservative in the mold of Ted Cruz, Mike Lee, Rand Paul and Ben Sasse. We need more like him in the Senate. Mo’s not afraid to stand up to the Washington, DC establishment and this has not made him any friends with the K-Street crowd. They have already sworn to spend as much as ten million dollars on behalf of his establishment opponent. We need Mo Brooks to win this race, my friend. He understands the threats we face at home from an ever-expanding federal government. And he understands that it will take free-market, conservative solutions to fix all the messes President Obama and the Democrats created the last eight years. Mo is a battle-tested conservative who is committed to restoring America’s greatness. But if he’s going to make it to Washington, he needs the help of conservatives just like YOU. The Republican Primary is August 15th. The establishment sees Mo as a real threat. They would like nothing better than to see Mo defeated and they’re pulling out all the stops to make sure he doesn’t win. The road our country has been on these last several years is simply not sustainable. We need conservatives who will go to the Senate and be a part of the fight–not part of the club. A major course correction is needed –- and conservative leaders like Mo Brooks are needed in the Senate to make it happen. Below is a letter from Mo with more information about his campaign. I’m all in to help Mo Brooks defeat the DC establishment and send him to the Senate. I hope you are too. Will you join me? Sincerely, Congressman Mark Meadows Chairman, House Freedom Caucus Dear Conservative, I’m looking for your support in my race for US Senate. We face serious challenges right now–as serious as any point in our history. I believe we need representation in DC that is ready to shake things up, stand by our President, and get things done…not just be part of the lobbyist, establishment club. Before you make up your mind about who you’re going to support I want you to know a little bit about me. In Congress I was very proud to be a founding member of the Freedom Caucus, a group of fiscal and social conservative members. And, my record as a proven conservative leader has been recognized by leading conservative organizations, including the following: Heritage Action (94% rating) NRA (“A” lifetime rating) Club for Growth (86% lifetime rating) Numbers USA (A+ 100% rating) American Conservative Union (89% lifetime rating, 94% rating for the 114th Congress) FreedomWorks (92% rating in 2016), and endorsed by Eagle Forum in 2016. If you’re interested in sending a proven conservative to represent you in the Senate, I’d ask you to visit my website and learn a little more about the kind of things I’ve fought for, and the things I will fight for as your United States Senator. For America, Congressman Mo Brooks, Conservative Republican for US Senate
Email insights: Martha Roby’s recap from the road
Monday night, Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby emailed constituents a newsletter with updates of what she was up to during this last week’s District work period. From visiting Tallassee High School’s new CTE facility to hanging out with the Girl Scouts to meeting with Dr. Carl Stockton, the new Chancellor of Auburn University at Montgomery — it’s safe to say, Roby was very busy while away from Washington, D.C. Read Roby’s full newsletter below: Friends, You might have seen on Facebook that I was busy traveling the district last week. It was an eventful, productive week, and I’m so glad I was able to visit with so many of my constituents. February is Career Technical Education Celebration Month in Alabama, so I used my time in the district last week to stop by a couple of high school CTE facilities and learn more about the work they’re doing. My first stop of the week was at Tallassee High School’s new CTE facility. I was so impressed! The school is really accomplishing big things for CTE in the area, and I’m proud of their new developments. While I was there, I spoke to a group of seniors about the importance of setting and reaching goals. Later in the week I visited Geneva High School’s CTE facility and enjoyed a delicious breakfast prepared by some of the students. I really appreciated this invitation and the students’ hard work. LUNCH WITH THE LIONS CLUB While in Tallassee, I had lunch with the Tallassee Lions Club. We covered a lot of topics, including my exciting new committee assignments and the opportunities I’ll have moving forward. I appreciate being invited to their meeting, and I hope to visit them again soon. MEETINGS IN MONTGOMERY Last week I also spent a lot of time meeting with constituents in my Montgomery office. It was especially great to meet with Girl Scout Troop 9141 – those young girls asked some really thought-provoking questions. I know they’ll grow up to be outstanding leaders in our communities. Dr. Carl Stockton, the new Chancellor of Auburn University at Montgomery, also came by my office last week. I was very impressed with what he had to say, and I really enjoyed our visit! I’m confident that he will serve AUM admirably in this role. AN AFTERNOON IN ANDALUSIA I spent part of an afternoon in Covington County where I spoke to the Andalusia Civitan Club at their weekly meeting. It was great to see some smiling, familiar faces! THE WEEK AHEAD As you may know, President Trump will address a Joint Sessions of Congress for the first time tomorrow night at 8:00 Central Time. I’m looking forward to hearing the President’s address, and I think it comes at a good time because the nation needs to see the Commander-in-Chief address Congress and understand that their government is working. I’m looking forward to hearing the President talk about defeating the global terrorist threat, securing our borders, and improving the economy. This is an exciting occasion. For six years we have sat and listened to lofty lectures from President Obama, and I have a feeling tomorrow night will be much different. I encourage everyone to watch. Keep up with all the action on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! It’s an honor to serve you in Congress. Please let me know if I can ever be of assistance to you. Sincerely, Martha Roby
Email Insights: Bradley Bryne sends weekly constituent newsletter
On Sunday, Alabama 1st District U.S. Congressman Bradley Byrne emailed constituents his weekly newsletter with updates of what he’s been working on the past week as well as what’s ahead. With his upcoming schedule filled with the Ag Matters tour — with stops in each of the 1st District’s six counties, where he’ll chat with local farmers and foresters to discuss ways the Congress can better assist them — to visiting organizations in Summerdale and Foley who are helping fight poverty in the area, it sounds like Byrne has a very full schedule this October. Read Byrne’s full newsletter below: Dear Friend, If you turn on the national news, it is easy to grow discouraged. From ongoing terrorism issues to the sluggish economy, our nation continues to face a wide range of serious challenges. That said, here in Southwest Alabama, we have had a decent run of positive news lately. I want to highlight some of the encouraging developments that impact every community in our area. Rural Development Loans: I received word last week that the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development office is starting a Community Facilities Relending Program to benefit rural areas in Southwest Alabama and Northwest Florida. United Bank, headquartered in Atmore, will serve as a lender for the program, and they will be able to issue up to $40,000,000 in loans to local communities. This program targets rural areas with high and persistent poverty rates. Funds from the loan program can be used on a range of essential community facilities or equipment including healthcare facilities, town halls, courthouses, child care centers, fire departments, police vehicles, libraries, food pantries, and more. This is certainly good news as many of our rural communities will be eligible to apply for these low-interest loans. DISC Grant: Baldwin County received some good news a few weeks ago when the Economic Development Administration announced a $846,583 grant for the Daphne Innovation and Science Complex (DISC). The DISC project is an important tool to help spur growth in the technology and science industries around Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Economic Development Grants: The Economic Development Administration also announced grants for the City of Atmore to construct an industrial access road and for the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce to renovate and modernize the former Threaded Fasteners building. Pipeline Grant: The Poarch Creek Band of Indians in Escambia County was recently awarded a grant from the Pipeline and Hazardous Material Administration. The over $33,000 grant will help with emergency preparedness efforts. Career/Tech Center: In Clarke County, work has started on a new workforce training facility in Grove Hill. This facility is a major step in the right direction when it comes to encouraging vocational education and making sure students are gaining the skills they need to get a good-paying job. These are just a few instances of positive news for our area. Of course, these developments alone will not be enough. I am committed to continuing to advocate for Southwest Alabama every chance I get. Thanks to our outstanding people, our area has unlimited potential, and I am excited to keep working on your behalf. Town Hall Meetings I’m excited to announce a slate of town hall meetings throughout Southwest Alabama for the month of October. It is possible more stops may be added. All of my town hall meetings are free to attend and open to everyone, so feel free to invite your friends and family. My town hall meetings are about you and listening to your concerns and ideas about our country. I also look forward to sharing some details with you about the House Republican “Better Way” agenda. You can find all the details about my upcoming town hall meetings by clicking here. In Case You Missed It Here are a few articles from the past week worth taking a look at: “Byrne applauds USDA’s new relending program to reduce rural poverty” – Alabama Today “United Bank chosen as lender for largest re-loan program” – Atmore Advance “Labor regulation critics focus on compliance costs” – Bloomberg News “In boost for faltering process, Colombia’s Santos wins Nobel Peace Prize” – Reuters “Grant gives DISC project push to move forward” – Gulf Coast News Today “Ryan plans to steamroll Democrats with budget tool” – Politico “Baldwin EMC crews head into the storm” – WKRG “Bradley Byrne: A better way for affordable health care” – Alabama Today Photo of the Week: What’s Ahead I continue to travel throughout Southwest Alabama to visit with you and learn more about the challenges facing our local businesses. For example, I will be holding my second annual Ag Matters tour with stops in each of our six counties that make up Alabama’s First Congressional District. Despite our manufacturing gains, agriculture remains the top industry in Alabama. I look forward to visiting with some of our local farmers and foresters to discuss ways the Congress can better assist them. I will also be visiting some organizations in Summerdale and Foley who are helping fight poverty in our area. These meetings are just one part of my larger effort to explore what works and what doesn’t work in the fight against poverty. As always, if you have questions or need help with a federal agency, my staff and I stand ready to assist. You can always give us a call at 251-690-2811 or click here to send me an email. Don’t forget to also follow me on Facebook and Twitter in order to get up-to-the-minute updates about my visits and meetings all across Southwest Alabama. Stay in touch, Congressman Bradley Byrne PS: Do you enjoy my email updates? If so, please forward these updates to your friends and family. They can also sign up to get my updates by clicking here.
Email Insights: Gary Palmer emails October newsletter to constituents
On Friday, Alabama 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer emailed constituents his monthly newsletter with updates of what he’s been doing throughout the month of September. From hosting a Service Academy Night to releasing a new video highlighting the history and beauty of the six counties in the 6th District, to updates on the ongoing Hillary Clinton investigation — it’s safe to say, Palmer’s had a very busy month. Read Palmer’s full newsletter below: Dear Friend, As October begins, I am looking forward to spending the entire month back in Alabama’s Sixth District. I will be hosting Town Halls throughout the month across the district. These events are important to me because they are a great opportunity for us to have open dialogue about the issues we all face. I look forward to seeing you at one of the upcoming Town Halls. Thanks for reading, Gary Palmer U.S. Service Academy Night In September I hosted a U.S. Service Academy Night for interested high school students and their parents. Representatives from the five service academies — Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines — plus a representative from Marion Military Institute were all present. We were able to explain the nomination and application process, and students had a chance to ask questions about academy life and the opportunities these academies offer. These are the future leaders of our country, and I’m grateful to these young men and women for their sincere desire to serve their country. County Highlight Video Over the next few months I hope to share videos with you highlighting the history and beauty of the six counties in Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District. For the first video, I hope you enjoy learning about Bibb County. A Better Way Recently, through six issue-driven task forces made up of Members of Congress, we constructed a plan to strengthen America, foster economic growth, and reform our government. We have labeled the plan A Better Way. I was pleased to work other members on three of the task forces: the economy, the Constitution, and tax reform. My bill, the Stopping the EPA Overreach Act, is included in our economic plan and would protect jobs both in Alabama and across America. To learn more about our plan, go to better.gop. Constitution Week September 17th marked the 229th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. During the month of September, my office spoke with over 600 fifth grade students in area schools about the Constitution and Washington D.C. We encourage all of our schools to teach the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. It is my hope that students and citizens will read and study this great document and require elected officials through the political process to abide by it. This is how we can keep the republic our Founders created. House Oversight Committee Hearing I believe protecting our national security to be of the utmost importance. It is especially concerning that apparently no one has made an effort to recover Hillary Clinton’s missing laptop. Although Clinton’s IT specialist, Bryan Pagliano, failed to attend our House Oversight Committee hearing, three others did attend. Two Platte River Networks employees, Bill Thornton and Paul Combetta, invoked their Fifth Amendment privilege and refused to answer questions. So I appreciate the fact that our fourth witness, Justin Cooper, stayed and answered our questions. Watch more in the video below. Click here to subscribe to Palmer’s newsletter.
Email Insights: Rainy Day Patriots’ to host open candidate forum Thursday 7/21
Birmginham area residents are invited to an open candidate forum at the Red Lobster in Vestavia Hills Thursday night hosted by the Rainy Day Patriots (RDP) tea party group. Run by Birmingham RDP leader Dawn Ray, the forum will feature candidates from the upcoming municipal elections for mayor and council, and is open to the local candidates, RDP members as well as guests. The upcoming election will be held Aug. 23, and a runoff, if necessary, will be held Oct. 4. View the invitation below: Dear Friends: To: Local Candidates, RDP Members, and Guests What: Rainy Day Patriots’ Open Candidate Forum Where: Red Lobster, 1030 Montgomery Hwy, Vestvia Hills 35216 Date: Thursday, July 21st Time: Meeting begins at 6 p.m. Feel free to come earlier to eat. RSVP: Not required. Time allotted for candidates determined by number candidates who show up.
Email Insights: Ivanka Trump sends first campaign email in support of father Donald Trump
Ivanka Trump will be centerstage Thursday night at the Republican National Convention, where she will introduce her father, Donald Trump, as he formally accepts the Republican Party’s nomination for president. Poised and articulate, calm under pressure, Ivanka is the yin to Donald’s freewheeling, brash yang. As the last of billionaire businessman’s four children to speak — a strategic placement on the convention’s final night — she will attempt to showcase the loving relationship she has with her father in effort humanize him. With the monumental task ahead of her, just hours before her big night, Ivanka sent her first email of the campaign. “Let me be the first to say that my father is someone you want fighting for you,” she told supporters. “He will outwork everyone in the room. He will always stay one step ahead of his competitors. And he will not stop fighting until deals are in place that put America First.” Read the full email below: As a young girl, my father always told me that I could do anything that I set my mind to. He meant it. He’s employed tens of thousands of people over the years and inspired them to do extraordinary things. Now he’s ready to take his passion, leadership, and determination to the White House and revive the American Dream for you and our entire country. Will you make a contribution to help elect my father as our next president? CONTRIBUTE $250 TO WINCONTRIBUTE $100 TO WINCONTRIBUTE $50 TO WINCONTRIBUTE $35 TO WINCONTRIBUTE OTHER AMOUNT Let me be the first to say that my father is someone you want fighting for you. I’ve stood by his side and watched as he made deals that were seemingly impossible. He will outwork everyone in the room. He will always stay one step ahead of his competitors. And he will not stop fighting until deals are in place that put America First. That fire and determination will make him a strong, but most importantly, a highly effective president. Please make a contribution today to elect my father, Donald J. Trump, as our 45th President of the United States. Sincerely, Ivanka Trump
Email Insights: Martha Roby confirms no immigrant detainees at Maxwell-Gunter
Alabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby confirmed in an email Thursday that no detained immigrant minors will be sent to Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery or any other Alabama military installation. In January, Roby first voiced her concerns after an Obama administration plan to evaluate the feasibility of housing undocumented immigrant minors at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Bace in Montgomery as they await deportation surfaced. Since that time, Roby had “unofficial” assurance that Maxwell-Gunter would not be used to house the detainees, but the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provided official notice Thursday that the base was removed from consideration. Watch Roby’s video remarks below: Read Roby’s full email below: WASHINGTON, D.C. – No detained immigrant minors will be sent to Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base in Montgomery or any other Alabama military installation, U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-Ala.) confirmed today. While Roby previously had unofficial assurance that Maxwell-Gunter would not be used to house the detainees, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provided official notice today that the base was removed from consideration. “Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base is no place to house hundreds of illegal immigrant minors,” Roby said. “We shut it down the first time and I’m glad we were able to shut it down again. “I appreciate the support and partnership of my colleagues in Alabama Congressional Delegation who worked alongside me against this ill-advised proposal.” Roby’s office was notified in January that Maxwell-Gunter was again being considered to house minors detained at the Mexican border while they await processing. This after Roby and her Alabama delegation colleagues had fought and shut down a similar proposal from Obama Administration in 2014. Roby immediately outlined her objections to the Secretaries of Defense, Homeland Security and HHS, explaining that the serious and sensitive missions at Maxwell-Gunter did not need to be disturbed by the housing and securing of hundreds of detainees. She also met personally with the Office of Refugee Resettlement to show why Gunter Annex was logistically unsuitable for this purpose, and then made the case to HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell in an Appropriations Committee hearing. Roby said the problem at the border would continue so long as lax enforcement and broken invites more people to illegally cross the border. “We have to secure the border, first and foremost. We also need to have immigration policies that put America’s economic interests first and discourage people from entering the country illegally. Until we get serious about combatting illegal immigration, we will continue to see this problem at the border.” HHS officials also confirmed that naval air fields in Baldwin County, Ala. would also no longer be considered for detainee housing. The air fields were inexplicably added to the list for consideration earlier this year.
