Election Day Eve: November 1, 2010 ...

Join us in supporting Annette's daughter for Congress: Vote Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks for Congress in IA-02 on Tuesday, November 2, 2010 ...

• Pro Small Business


• Pro Small Government


• Pro Jobs


• Pro Family and Seniors


• Pro Second Amendment


• Pro Fiscal Responsibility

For more on the Issues that Miller-Meeks stands for, please visit her web site.

We the People of the United States of America, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. - The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America

Robin Tucker, member of NWYC

We the People are the voice of America.

Dreams Do Happen and We invite Iowa to Make History on November 2nd ...

We can make history in Iowa on November 2Nd...

Elect Miller-Meeks for Congress and let's send Iowa's first women to Capitol Hill in Washington D.C.

Robin Tucker

Linn County Chair for Miller-Meeks

"We need leaders on Capitol Hill who will help create opportunity and facilitate prospertity" ...

At work, we received the following e-mail from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ...

Robin,

With one week to go in this midterm election,
it’s safe
to say a lot of new faces will be packing their bags for Capitol
Hill after next
Tuesday -- with plenty of offices set to change hands. In
the closing days of
this election, pay close attention to three of the most
crucial Senate races the
Chamber has invested vast resources into: PA, IL
and CA. Our candidates are
polling strong in the former two … and in
California -- a seat that has not been
competitive for years -- Carly
Fiorina is gaining momentum.

When we
launched our political program
earlier this year, we knew the stakes had never
been higher.

A recent article from Barron’s summarized what we
are up against:

“With an economic growth rate of 1.7%, the
country is in serious
trouble, [U.S. Chamber President & CEO] Donohue
says. He's right: Growth
will stay low until Congress begins to help
business instead of tying it down.
It's not too late for the president to
listen to Tom Donohue.”

Unemployment is still over 10% in many states
across the country.
Spending and taxes are on the rise, while jobs and
opportunity remain on the
decline. That needs to change.

We need
leaders on Capitol Hill who will
help create opportunity and facilitate
prosperity, leaders who will address the
uncertainty that has been
paralyzing the business community, leaders who will
remove the roadblocks to
economic reform and help employers grow their
businesses and put people back
to work.

Elections have consequences, and
this is one of the most
consequential elections in recent history. Your efforts
have continued to
impress us all at the U.S. Chamber. But the final week is the
most important
and there is still work to do. We have one week to close strong
and finish
what we started.

Your continued involvement over the next
seven days
CAN make the difference next Tuesday.

They asked for a donation and and Bill gave us his "profound thanks" for our efforts as an American small business.

Robin Tucker

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

We the People can Vote on November 2, 2010

• In November of 2009, I had the pleasure of being asked by Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks to serve as her Linn Chair for her campaign. I, along with others throughout Linn County and the other 14 counties that serve the Second Congressional District of Iowa, have volunteered time and effort to help get out the vote for Miller-Meeks. Please join us in supporting Miller-Meeks for Congress on November 2ND or earlier, if you choose to vote before election day. The 99 county auditor's office will be open Saturday, October 30, 2010 for the final day of early voting in Iowa.

Miller-Meeks for Congress

Who should we send to Congress for the Second Congressional District ...

May we suggest we elect and send Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks on November 2Nd to Washington D.C. ...

GOP Doctors Hope They Have Prescription to Win in November - Rollcall.com
Iowa ophthalmologist Mariannette Miller-Meeks had come to Washington, D.C., many times since 2000 to talk to members of her state’s Congressional delegation about health care. But during an April 2007 visit, she caught a fever for Capitol Hill ...

Absolutely not voting for Loebsack - Published in The Gazette on Monday by John McLaughlin of Cedar Rapids

Miller-Meeks respects, upholds Constitution - Lan Nowotny of Cedar Rapids to The Gazette

Loebsack needs to ‘prove it’ - Gary Sargent of Cedar Rapids to The Gazette

Dem ads against GOP not accurate on crux of FairTax proposal - The Hill
Democratic lawmakers struggling to find support from a skeptical electorate are using a Republican tactic to win votes by claiming their opponents will raise taxes if elected into office ...

We encourage you to vote now or on Election Day, Tuesday, November 2Nd for Miller-Meeks for Congress in Iowa's Second Congressional District.

As a business person, we received the following call to action from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ...

Robin,

With your help, we are closing strong in the waning days of this
election.

We have helped make jobs and the economy issue #1, and we have
continued to hit the airwaves with innovative ads driving home the need for
common sense reforms to get our economy back on track.

We have just
concluded one of the most aggressive phases of our issue advocacy effort –
reloading in roughly thirty of the most important... most competitive Senate and
House races nationwide.

While extreme liberal groups like MoveOn.org –
propped up by extreme liberals on Capitol Hill – are attempting to derail our
progress with baseless, desperate, last-minute attacks... we have STAYED ON
MESSAGE.

Our message remains rooted in the need for economic progress
and job growth across America. Their message has devolved into petty attacks
rooted in the tired old politics-of-the-past.

A recent Wall Street Journal editorial put it best:

"Democrats are unleashing government power to silence their political
opponents. Instead of piling on, the press corps ought to blow the whistle on
this attempt to stifle political speech. This is one more liberal abuse of power
that voters should consider as they head to the polls."

With two weeks
to go, I hope you will continue to help us help candidates who will come to
Washington, put principle over politics, and stand up for pro-growth economic
policies that will lead to REAL ECONOMIC PROGRESS in the years ahead. With your
help, we can continue to launch an invigorated, all out economic offensive
driving home the need for change in the closing days of these midterm elections.

It’s been a long and ugly campaign season, filled with partisan attacks
and political squabbling. We are all tired--no doubt about it. But we are SO
CLOSE to bringing about historic change on Capitol Hill. The work we put in over
the next two weeks will have positive and profound economic implications for
YEARS TO COME in Washington.

We are two weeks from Election Day on Tuesday

Robin Tucker

Thank you to Miller-Meeks supporters who attended pre-Debate Rally at Mt. Mercy University ...

We enjoyed attending the pre-Debate Rally at Mt. Mercy University tonight ahead of the IA-02 Debate sponsored by The Gazette and KCRG-TV9.

Photo album from The Gazette on the pre-Debate Rally. Miller-Meeks supporters were out 3 to 1 over Loebsack supporters. Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks pictured entering the Mt. Mercy University venue ahead of the Tuesday, October 12, 2010 debate for IA-02 ...

Loebsack, Miller-Meeks make their pitches at Mount Mercy debate - The Gazette
Rep. Dave Loebsack and Republican challenger Mariannette Miller-Meeks talked about Loebsack’s two terms in Congress tonight, and what Miller-Meeks would do differently if her second bid to unseat the two-term Democratic incumbent is successful ...

"She wants to see a conversation on the tax code and how it can be reformed, and
that's something I think business people in this country want to see as
well. It's an honest discussion that needs to take place." - Robin Tucker

Loebsack, Miller-Meeks spar over taxes and spending - IowaPolitics.com
CEDAR RAPIDS — Taxes were the biggest area of disagreement between U.S. Rep. Dave Loebsack, D-Mount Vernon, and Republican challenger Mariannette Miller-Meeks during a cordial, civilized debate Tuesday night at Mount Mercy University, although they often disagreed more about what they've said on the issue rather than what they plan to do about it ...

2nd District Debate: Loebsack v Miller-Meeks Delayed Live-Blog ‎- Blog for Iowa (blog)
By Month By Year BFIA intended to live-blog the debate but couldn't gain ... Miller-Meeks: No one knows...difficult question...there could have been actions ...

Second District Candidates Clash on Healthcare, Flood Recovery ‎ - KCRG
AFL-CIO attacks Miller-Meeks, Zaun in two more mailers ‎ - Iowa Independent
Second district congressional candidates spar over flood recovery ‎ - Radio Iowa

2nd District Debate Tonight: Watch it! ‎- KCRG
This follows the rousing Thursday, Oct. 7, debate between Democratic Gov. ... Dave Loebsack and Republican challenger Mariannette Miller-Meeks will be at ...

We are supporting Miller-Meeks for Congress. We believe a new face in Washington D.C. is what Iowans in the 2Nd Congressional Distirct will benefit from in 2010.

Robin Tucker

National Write Your Congressman on Small Business: Federal Legislation ...

http://www.nwyc.com/
Monday, October 11, 2010

Major tax breaks and access to capital in new jobs bill
In an attempt to jumpstart business activity, a new small business jobs bill was passed that has several attention-getting provisions that add new twists to some old tax breaks. Also, this bill contains a $30 billion small business lending feature targeted to small and mid-sized community banks.

Substantial increase in popular business equipment write-off for 2010 and 2011
While certainly not new, the increase in the amount of this tax break is stunning. As you know, business asset purchases normally must be depreciated over a period of time. However, the tax code allows a business to elect to expense (immediately write-off) the purchases which yields an immediate tax deduction and large tax savings. In 2010, the ceiling on immediate write-off was $250,000, but, was scheduled to significantly decrease after 2010.
Small Business Jobs Act: The small business bill retroactively doubles the 2010 expensing amount to $500,000 of equipment purchases and applies to 2011 as well.

First time ever: tax break for certain real estate improvements
Effective immediately and retroactive to all of 2010 as well as 2011, and, for the first time ever, the first $250,000 of real property improvements to leased property, restaurant property and improvements to retail-business property can be applied against taxable income in the year the cost is incurred. (Typically, these costs are recouped using long depreciation periods.) This has never happened!

Back in play: large bonus depreciation
New life! Given up for dead with its expiration after 2009, this new legislation retroactively allows for “bonus depreciation” equal to 50% of the cost of equipment purchased in 2010 and 2011. Any cost left over after bonus depreciation can be deducted under the normal depreciation write-off rules. NOTE: Bonus depreciation is taken AFTER the equipment expensing election discussed above. This potentially allows the majority of the cost of equipment purchased in 2010 and 2011 to offset taxable income.

Sole proprietors can deduct health insurance on Schedule C in 2010
Small businesses that operate as unincorporated sole proprietors have never been able to deduct the cost of health insurance in calculating the 15.3% self employment tax. Instead, only one-half the insurance cost was deducted as an above the line deduction. The Small Business Jobs bill moves the deduction to Schedule C where it reduces self-employment tax.

Access to credit for small business
In an attempt to stimulate lending to the small business community, the bill creates a $30 billion Small Business Lending Fund that will make capital available solely for small business lending by local and mid-market community banks.

The interesting part of this program is that community banks have a huge incentive to loan the money because the banks repayment rate to the feds is tied to increased lending to small business. Participating banks can lower their rate by increasing small business lending by 10 percent over the previous year.

1099 reporting requirements failed to make the cut.
Included among the controversy of health care reform is expanded reporting requirements of all payments received from vendors beginning in 2012. It has been a major target of repeal by virtually all the small business sector. A repeal of the very unpopular expanded 1099 reporting requirements did not make it into this bill as two separate amendments were defeated.
NOTE: The battle over this issue is far from over and will receive major attention in virtually all proposed legislation in the coming year.

Expiring tax cuts: what’s the latest?
It’s looking more like the decision on expiring Bush-era tax breaks will occur after the November elections. There seems to be consensus on both sides that many of the tax breaks will be extended. The disagreement in Congress is on the tax breaks for upper-incomers: should they be extended or expire. Also included in this debate is what to do about the estate tax which is scheduled to increase in 2011 to significantly higher tax rates.

Tax Planning: Capital gain, dividend and income tax rates
Because we may not know until December whether these rates expire or not, you’ll want to have scenarios ready for stock sales, paying or deferring bonuses and expenditures so that you make the right choices as the tax rates become available.

The information contained herein is general in nature and is not intended as legal, accounting or tax advice or opinion as provided by National Write Your Congressman. The reader should seek professional guidance prior to taking any action based upon this information. National Write Your Congressman shall have no obligation to inform the reader of any changes in tax laws or others which may affect the information provided.

Thank you for being a responsible American; your voice is making a difference.

*** *** ***

The Governor's Debate was last week, now we turn to IA-02 for Congress.

It will be interesting on Tuesday, October 12Th at Mt. Mercy University to see the debate in IA-02. For more information on the debate:

Debate for Iowa’s 2Nd Congressional District in Cedar Rapids Oct. 12 - The Gazette

Next up, the race for Congress in Iowa — specifically, the state’s 2Nd Congressional District seat ...

Vote now or on Tuesday, November 2Nd in Iowa.

Robin Tucker

Attended the Governor's Debate last night at Coe College here in Cedar Rapids ...

As a supporter of Terry Branstad, I attended the Governor's Debate held at Coe College here in Cedar Rapids. Mr. Branstad had spoke at our Rotary Club on Monday at Noon, so it was interesting to hear him during the debate.

It was a great turnout and it was nice to visit with neighbors and friends on both sides Others were outside promoting a particular issue, such as Education or Less Government. It was nice to invite a fellow businessman, as well, who was interested in the race.

I enjoyed a short visit with one of Mr. Culver's staff, as we were headed back to our cars, after the event at Coe College. Mr. Culver will hopefully only serve one term. Mr. Branstad brings more experience to the table, after serving as President of Des Moines University, most recently, after four terms as Governor of Iowa from 1983 to 1999.

Don't forget to vote now or on November 2, 2010.

On the Campus of Mt. Mercy University on Tuesday night, Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks will debate incumbent Dave Loebsack for the 2Nd Congressional District in Iowa. It's time for Iowa to send a new face to Congress. Dr. Miller-Meeks is a qualified person, and it would be nice to see our state send a lady to Washington D.C.

Robin Tucker

The R&P Report from National Write Your Congressman for Monday, September 27, 2010 ...

http://www.nwyc.com/

Vol. 14 No. 2-28

Monday, September 27, 2010

REVIEW

Voting Day Reminder: midterm elections Nov. 2.

Small-Business Bill: The House cleared a small-business measure sending it to the President to sign into law. The bill would establish a $30 billion lending fund to provide community banks with capital for small business loans. The measure includes $12 billion in tax incentives aimed at small businesses. It would revive an expired bonus-depreciation provision and allow all capital gains from certain small-business stock to be excluded from taxation. (H.R. 5297)

National Defense Bill: The bill is on hold after Democrats amended it with a provision that would extend legal status and a path to citizenship for certain children of illegal aliens. It also included language that would eliminate the ban on gays serving openly in the military. Lawmakers voted not to bring the measure to the floor for a vote. (S.3454)

Expiring Tax Cuts: Senate Democrats signaled that they are unlikely to schedule a vote on extending the expiring 2001 and 2003 (Bush) tax cuts before Congress leaves Capitol Hill for the campaign trail this week. (S.3816)

Cyber-security: The leader of the Pentagon’s Cyber Command asked lawmakers to continue to provide funding to the new unit as it works to find ways to combat threats to computer networks. (S.773) (S.3480)

Food Safety: A Senate Committee approved a measure to strengthen criminal penalties for companies and individuals that knowingly violate food safety standards. The bill would increase penalties for distributing tainted food products and establish fines and prison sentences of up to 10 years for violations. Under the measure, such an offense would be a felony. (S 3767)

“Fair Elections Fund”: A House panel approved a bill that would provide public financing of congressional elections to the House. It would provide primary and general election candidates who abide by certain restrictions with federal financial support from a newly created “Fair Elections Fund” and would receive 400 percent matching payments for certain small-dollar contributions. The bill would use proceeds from spectrum (electromagnetic wavelengths) auctions to help finance political campaigns. (H.R.6116)

Click here to express your opinion or go to www.nwyc.com

Campaign Finance Bill: The Senate again rejected (59-39) an effort by Majority Leader Harry Reid to call up a campaign finance disclosure measure. GOP members united against the bill. (S.3628)

Prescription Drug Monitoring: The House passed a bill aimed at preventing drug abuse. It would reauthorize a program to assist states in monitoring prescription drug use and would authorize $15 million for fiscal 2011 and $10 million annually from fiscal 2012-2013. (H.R.5710)

Autism Grant: The House passed a measure to expand aid to those with autism and their families. The bill would authorize $17 million annually for fiscal 2012-16 for grants for services rendered to children and adults with autism. (H.R. 5756)

PREVIEW

Continuing Resolution (CR): The Senate is expected to pass a short-term CR to fund most government operations past the end of the 2010 fiscal year. It may contain extra funding for the Pell Grant program for low-income college students.

Child Nutrition: The House is expected to consider legislation that would authorize the first increase in decades for per-meal reimbursement to schools. (S.3307) (H.R.5504)

China Currency: The House is expected to advance a bill aimed at China’s currency practices. Many experts say that China maintains the yuan at an artificially low value to keep Chinese exports cheap and imports expensive. (H.R.2378)

The Week Ahead: Before Oct. recess, lawmakers in both chambers will address a CR to keep the government funded. The House is expected to address a loan guarantee program for home construction and a child nutrition measure. The Senate will address a Social Security payroll tax bill.

Click here to view the R&P Report as a PDF

Early voting has begun for the 2010 General Election on November 2, 2010 in the State of Iowa.

Both parties pushing the early vote - The Des Moines Register

• Need to Register to Vote in Iowa? pdf link!
• Obtain an Absentee Ballot in the State of Iowa

News on Miller-Meeks campaign in the 2Nd Congressional District of Iowa.

Miller-Meeks for Congress » Welcome
Miller-Meeks within 1 point of Loebsack, 41-40% (September 16th ... 09-20-2010 MILLER-MEEKS FOR CONGRESS EVENT SCHEDULE FOR SEPTEMBER 20-25 ...

Miller-Meeks wants less stimulus, lower taxes - ‎UI The Daily Iowan
"And that will require a change in Congress." Miller-Meeks spoke to a small group of people Sunday in Iowa City about the changes she wants to bring to ...

AFL-CIO sends out more campaign mailers in Iowa‎ - DesMoinesRegister.com (blog)
A union group is sending out more mailers that promote two Iowa Democrats seeking re-election to Congress.

American Future Fund Political Action: Endorses Mariannette Miller ...‎ - IowaPolitics.com (press release)

Miller-Meeks changes stance on Social Security privatization‎ - Mason City Globe Gazette

If you are in Cedar Rapids and have questions regarding voting, please contact me at my office at 319.366.7791 x 103. It is important that we participate in our election process.

Robin Tucker

R&P Report from National Write Your Congressman for Monday, September 20, 2010 ...

http://www.nwyc.com/
Vol. 14 No. 2-27
Monday, September 20, 2010

REVIEW

Small Business Bill: The Senate passed (61-38) a package of provisions that would establish a $30 billion lending fund designed to help community banks make loans to small businesses. Most Republicans voiced opposition to the provision saying it is an unwarranted government handout to banks. The bill would also provide $12 billion in tax breaks and enhance federal programs that support small businesses. (H.R.5297)

1099 Requirement: The Senate failed to pass an amendment to the small business bill that would have revised or eliminated the provision in the new health care law that requires businesses to file a 1099 tax form when they pay a vendor more than $600 in a year. That provision has been a source of anger and protest from small businesses and their representatives in Washington. (H.R.5297)

Rural Energy Savings Act: The House passed a bill that would provide $4.9 billion in federal funding for low-interest loans to rural customers to implement energy efficiency measures. (H.R.4785)

Coal Industry and EPA Authority: Coal industry supporters are weighing new lines of attack on the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions after Senate Democrats canceled a markup of the agency’s annual spending bill. (S. 3454)

Overseas Contractor Reform Act: In an effort to enforce stricter penalties and provide more oversight of overseas contractors who provide poor services, the House passed a bill that states that no government contracts or grants should be awarded to individuals or companies who violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977. (H.R.5366)

Food Safety: The Senate placed a food safety bill on hold until after the Nov. 2 elections. The bill is designed to strengthen the FDA’s food safety enforcement powers. Those in favor of it say new regulations are necessary now in light of the recent recall of contaminated eggs. Those against the measure say it would authorize spending that is not paid for and would burden industry with new regulations. (S.510)

PREVIEW

Sexual Orientation: A House subcommittee backed a bill designed to advance the government’s understanding of health issues facing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. It would call for the collection of data from volunteers who are not minors. Funding has not yet been determined. (H.R.6109)

Click here to express your opinion or go to www.nwyc.com

Tax Extenders: The Senate unveiled a $50 billion package of tax-cut extensions, including a one-year renewal of the R&D credit. The bill would renew dozens of provisions that lapsed at the end of last year that focus on businesses and individuals. Funds to settle class-action lawsuits brought by black farmers and Native Americans are included along with money to retain workers laid off as a result of globalization and to provide jobs for unemployed youths. (H.R.4849)

Stem Cell Research: Anticipating a long debate, Senate Democrats announced they will not take up a bill that would allow federal funding of embryonic stem cell research until after the elections. Lawmakers in the House followed suit. The measure is in response to a judge’s injunction blocking such funding. (S.3766) (H.R.4808)

Defense Bill Path to Citizenship: Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) said that he would amend the defense authorization bill with a provision to extend legal status and a path to citizenship in some cases for illegal immigrants. The amendment would use language similar to the DREAM Act (H.R.1751) that would give illegal immigrants who came to this country before they were 16 years-old a path to citizenship if they served in the military or met other requirements. (S.3454)

Click here to voice your opinion on this issue.

U.S. and Russian Nuclear Stockpiles: A treaty that would restrict each country to a maximum of 1,500 deployed nuclear warheads is headed for the Senate floor. Debate is expected to center on questions of trust between the two countries and on national security.

$699.9 Billion Defense Spending: A Senate panel advanced the defense appropriations draft bill. It includes $157.7 billion for overseas operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. It is headed to the full Senate for a vote. (H.R.5136)

The Week Ahead: The House is expected to clear a small-business lending measure. The Senate address the defense authorization bill.

Click here to view the R&P Report as a PDF

*** *** ***

The General Election will be held in the State of Iowa and nationally on Tuesday, November 2, 2010. We support Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks for Congress in Iowa's 2Nd Congressional District.

Mariannette Miller-Meeks for Congress

http://millermeeks.com/news/miller-meeks-for-congress-event-schedule-for-september-20-25 - Miller Meeks for Congress

Event Schedule for the week of September 20-25, 2010 for Miller Meeks ...

http://millermeeks.com/news/nrcc-announces-new-on-the-radar-and-contender-candidates - Miller-Meeks for Congress

Washington - The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) today announced its newest round of 'On the Radar' and 'Contender' candidates. By reaching the first and second step of the three-step 'Young Guns' program, these Republican candidates have reached the ...

Robin Tucker

9/13/2010: Congress has returned from the August and Labor Day recess to Capitol Hill

http://www.nwyc.com/

Vol. 14 No. 2-26
Monday, September 13, 2010

REVIEW

(Congress returned to Capitol Hill today after observing a month-long Summer District Work Period.)

Stem Cell Research: Now that a federal appeals court has lifted a decision, the government is free to once again fund embryonic stem cell research. It is unclear when a final ruling will be made on the issue.

PREVIEW

$26.1 Billion Education, Medicaid Package: The Senate passed Nuclear Arms Treaty: Senate Foreign Relations Chairman John Kerry (D-MA) plans a Sept. 16 committee markup for his resolution that would ratify a nuclear arms reduction treaty with Russia. A substitute amendment by ranking minority member Richard Lugar (R-IN) is expected to be included.

Business-Related Tax: About 30 industry trade groups, whose members file their tax returns as individuals, have called on lawmakers to keep the current income tax structure in place even though it is set to expire Dec. 31. The Obama administration has called for top rates to rise on income above $200,000 a year for individuals and $250,000 for couples. That would equal a tax increase of roughly $40 billion next year, compared to today’s rates. The new taxes would impact about half the business-related income reported on individual tax returns, according to the Joint Committee on Taxation.

Click here to express your opinion, or go to www.nwyc.com.

Financial Protection Chief: A battle is headed for the Senate when the White House makes its upcoming decision about who is to lead the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. Elizabeth Warren is widely viewed as the President's top candidate to lead the agency. Republicans were almost universally opposed to her, while Banking Committee Chairman, Christopher Dodd (D-CT) raised doubts about her confirmation.

Clean Energy: A coalition of environmental groups and clean-energy advocates are urging Congress to address federal fuel-economy and tailpipe emissions standards.
Homeland Security: Congress will be considering the possible need for a low- and slow-flying armed aircraft to supplement the nation’s alert fighter fleet.

Health Care Spending Up: A report by independent government economists and actuaries projects that the new health care law Congress recently passed will push the growth of national health spending slightly higher during the next decade. The law was designed to curb spending.

The Week Ahead: The House is expected to address a bill dealing with education, spending and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The Senate will address the New Strategic Arms Reductions Treaty.

Click here to view the R&P Report as a PDF

*** *** ***

Now News on Miller-Meeks for Congress in the IA-2

"For people to say a marketplace will not work in health care, they're
wrong," ~ Dr. Miller-Meeks

Elections 2010: Physicians on the ballot‎ - American Medical News

Dr. Miller-Meeks said she is running for Congress for a second time to preserve the best parts of medicine and to make the health system more ...

Miller-Meeks says it may be time to delay enrollment in Medicare‎ - Radio Iowa
... 2010 An eye doctor from Ottumwa who's running for congress says it may be time to ... Marianette Miller-Meeks, the Republican challenging Democratic ...

We support Miller-Meeks and her commitment to step aside from her medical practice to represent our family and our neighbors throughout the Second Congressional District in Iowa as our next member of Congress. We encourage you to sit down and get to know Mariannette, as we have had the pleasure to do. Election Day is November 2Nd in the State of Iowa. If you would like an absentee ballot, you can visit this site.

US House race, District 2: Family setback threatened congressional ... - ‎DesMoinesRegister.com
She resigned from her practice in January 2009 to campaign full time for Congress. Even though her husband's new job offers insurance, Miller-Meeks, 55, ...

Barbara Grassley stumps for Miller-Meeks‎ - West Liberty Index
... to vote for in the US Congress race when they hit the polls in November. ... Miller-Meeks, who was victorious in the June Republican Primary with 47 ...

Robin Tucker

We are supporting MIller-Meeks for Congress in Iowa's 2Nd Congressional District ...

Did any of you catch the new radio advertisement for Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks for Congress?

My wife called me today, when she was out in the car, after she had heard the 60 second radio ad. To learn more about Miller-Meeks, we would encourage you to visit her web site.

Miller-Meeks for Congress » Welcome
Miller-Meeks down just 5 points among most likely voters. Congressman Dave Loebsack has yet to respond. Click here to read Mariannette's biography. ...

Recent news on our candidate for the 2Nd Congressional District in Iowa ...

Miller-Meeks was not behind negative push polling‎ - Muscatine Journal
In his letter, Mr. Bentley wrongly accused the Miller-Meeks campaign of conducting a push poll. For those of you unfamiliar with push polls, a caller asks a ...

We have enjoyed the opportunity to get to know Mariannette over the past 2+ years. We have been impressed with her knowledge of the issues, her willingness to work hard and even step away from her medical practice to seek the opportunity to represent us in Congress. Here's a recent comment she had on the added paperwork burden on small business in America.

Get to know the candidates‎ - DesMoinesRegister.com
Join us for a conversation with Mariannette Miller-Meeks, a Republican running to represent the 2nd Congressional District in the US House of ...

If you haven't had a chance or opportunity to meet Mariannette, we would encourage you to contact her on the campaign trail. She has a web site, uses social media and is a great person to sit down and visit with one on one or in small or large groups.

Debates arise as campaign issue in Iowa races as challengers seek ...‎ - WQAD

When I spoke to our current representative in August at a industry event, he suggested that there would be debates, but other than one debate here in Cedar Rapids in October, we haven't heard any more news. Hopefully, our current Congressman will step up and allow for a debate of the issues dear to Iowans in our District. Why not debate in all fifteen counties that make up the Second District of Iowa?

We hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend. We certainly did and we are aware that Miller-Meeks is working hard on her campaign. We hope you will take the time to get to know her and discuss the issues with her as we approach Election Day on November 2Nd.

Robin Tucker

We are proud to support Miller-Meeks for Congress!

Have you had an opportunity to meet Mariannette Miller-Meeks in IA-2?

We want to invite you to take a closer look at an excellent person seeking to represent our District in Congress. Part of her message is Create Jobs, Cut Spending, Lower Taxes ...

Mariannette Miller-Meeks for Congress on Facebook. You can visit her web site too. She is a doctor, veteran and small business owner. Join us in supporting Miller-Meeks for Congress in '10.

Robin Tucker

Linn County Chair

Thank you to all who volunteered and supported Miller-Meeks for Congress in the Primary Election ...

On behalf of Miller-Meeks for Congress in Linn County, we want to personally thank those who supported Mariannette in winning the Republican nomination for Iowa's 2Nd Congressional District on Tuesday. The following e-mail was sent this morning from our wonderful campaign manager, Tracie. We appreciated every one's hard work and time!

Hello Team Miller-Meeks!

Wow! What a night! Last night your months of hard work and faith paid off--Mariannette is our Republican nominee for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District!

With 100% of precincts reporting, Mariannette took 50.7% of the vote, over double the total votes received by her nearest opponent. She won 14 of 15 counties with the icing on the cake being she won in Linn County, the home of the other 3 candidates! If you'd like to see how Mariannette did in your county, click
here: http://data.desmoinesregister.com/dmr/iowa-elections/

I hope you are all very proud of yourselves and YOUR victory--every single one of
you won last night when your work for Mariannette came to fruition. We
should be excited and continue to conduct ourselves in the ethical and honorable
way we have thus far, and welcome our opponents' supporters into our efforts so
that we can send Loebsack back to Mt Vernon November 2. It's going to take
every single one of us to do it, and then some, but I'm confident that
Mariannette and Team Miller-Meeks have what it takes to do it!

In the coming days, we will be mapping out our strategy for the general election
campaign. You will all be an integral part of that effort, so please take
these days to rest up so we can hit the ground running! First, though, we
must CELEBRATE! Join us tonight at the Hotel Ottumwa from 6-8 p.m. for a
party honoring YOU and our other supporters for the time, talents, and money
that have been contributed to Team Miller-Meeks. Details are:

Supporter Appreciation Party
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
6-8 p.m.
Hotel Ottumwa
107 E. Second Street
Ottumwa, IA

As always, I am available for questions/comments, etc.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Tracie


-- Tracie Gibler
Campaign Manager
Miller-Meeks for Congress
Phone: 641-777-4251
www.millermeeks.com

We would appreciate your support in the November 2Nd general election in the State of Iowa for the 2Nd Congressional District. Please feel free to contact the TEAM here in Linn County or Tracie with Team Miller-Meeks throughout the District!

Robin Tucker

Meet and Greet tonight for Miller-Meeks for Congress from 6 to 8 pm at Noelridge Park ...

Carole and I are proud to support Miller-Meeks for Congress in the 2Nd Congressional District in the State of Iowa. We believed in her in 2008 and we believe she is the right candidate for our community in 2010.

We invite you to Meet and Greet Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks from 6 to 8 pm at Noelridge Park at the Creekside Pavilion. We believe Miller-Meeks is the right candidate to defeat David Loebsack in the 2Nd November General Election. History likely plays a big role in this election. Feel free to visit with me about this important race for Congress. I plan to be at tonight's Meet & Greet. Mariannette is seeking our vote in as the Republican nomination for Congress on June 8Th in the Republican Primary.

The Creekside Pavilion at Noelridge Park will be the site of the Thursday, June 3Rd Meet & Greet for Miller-Meeks. Directions: Located at the north end of Golf Street NE about three blocks north of 42Nd Street. Pavilion is on the east or right side of Golf Street as you travel from 42Nd and Golf.

Miller-Meeks lost to Loebsack by a 3-2 margin in 2008. But much has changed
since that strong Democratic year swept Barack Obama to the presidency and gave the Democrats a near filibuster-proof majority in the U.S. Senate. And we think Miller-Meeks, now two years older and wiser, is the candidate best able to ride this election cycle's anti-incumbent wave and give Loebsack a run for his
money. - Press-Citizen endorsement

Our View - Miller-Meeks best choice for 2nd District - Iowa City Press-Citizen

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Tracie Gibler with the Miller-Meeks campaign at 641.777.4251.

Robin Tucker

It was a great weekend, especially Saturday with Washington's High School Prom and outstanding weather ...

We are proud of our daughter, who is a member of the Class of 2010, of Washington High School. She enjoyed her high school prom on Saturday and took a brief pose in front of Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks campaign sign positioned in our front yard in Indian Creek Hills in SE Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

We hope you will join all of us in supporting Miller-Meeks for Congress in the upcoming Republican Primary on 6/8/2010.

If you need an absentee ballot, you can contact the County Auditor's Office. I enjoyed the opportunity to vote by Absentee Ballot at the Marion Library on my birthday on May 8Th.

Robin Tucker

Mariannette sits down with Bob Morrison to discuss the issues facing Iowa and the United States! Bob Morrison runs a Public Access Show in Muscatine County, Iowa in the 2Nd Congressional District of our State.

Feeling Positive and Buidling Trust about Our Government is Important ...

"Thank you for reading this letter supporting Mariannette Miller-Meeks. I have
considerable depth and breadth of knowledge of Miller-Meeks, as I was on the
committee that chose her out of several hundred applicants to be an Iowa Eye
resident for three and one half years." ~ Frank Judisch of Iowa City

A couple letters from a person supporting Miller-Meeks for Congress ...

Vote Miller-Meeks to balance budget piece - Iowa City Press-Citizen

Miller-Meeks stands out - The Daily Iowan

Enjoyed visiting with a local businesswomen today about the Miller-Meeks campaign over my lunch hour. The biggest concern was how Heath Care was pushed through Congress and put up for sale in getting support for votes. She supports Chuck Grassley and Governor Terry Branstad in the primary, as well.

Robin Tucker

We the People are the voice of America.

Our Heritage

We the People of the United States of America, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America

The R&P Report on Current Federal Legislation for the week of April 26, 2010 ...

We received the following R&P Report from National Write Your Congressman ...

Vol. 14 No. 2-12
Monday, April 26, 2010

REVIEW

Unemployment Package: Senate Democrats won a key test in their push to extend unemployment benefits and several other recently lapsed federal programs in an extension bill. After hitting a procedural snag earlier in the day, the Senate voted 60-40 to advance the bill that would extend programs for an additional month. Only four Republicans voted in favor of the bill. Offsetting costs is a point of contention.(H.R.4851)

Republican Appointment: Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) appointed Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) to serve as counsel to the Republican Senate leadership team.

Campaign Finance Bill: With their campaign finance bill due to be introduced in coming days, House Democrats revealed details of how they plan to promote the bill. It is expected to increase campaign finance disclosure, political coordination and disclaimer requirements, while imposing new limits on political involvement by government contractors and foreign governments.

Financial Services Overhaul: Although the gulf between Democrats and Republicans over how to revamp the nation’s oversight of financial services appears to be growing, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is moving overhaul legislation to the floor. Republicans immediately objected to the motion to consider the legislation. Sen. Reid responded by scheduling April 26 as the day to cast a vote on the motion to proceed. The GOP has vowed to block that. (S.3217)

Immigration: As midterm elections approach, lawmakers are under constituent pressure to show progress on an immigration overhaul. Including a path toward citizenship for undocumented immigrants that is viewed as a way to avoid the risk of alienating Latino voters, a constituency whose turnout is expected to prove pivotal in states such as Nevada, where Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid faces a tough re-election race.

Climate Change Measure: Authors of a Senate climate change draft bill are attempting to rewrite a core section addressing transportation sector emissions, raising doubts that the long-awaited unveiling will proceed as scheduled this week.

The section being revised was decided upon after numerous meetings with representatives of oil and gas companies. It would have imposed a fee on petroleum-based motor fuels linked to the amount of carbon in the fuel and other elements. The fee would be added to the price of fuel at the pump. New language could include expanding nuclear power.

PREVIEW

Tax Writers and S Corporations: Lawmakers looking for revenue to offset the costs in a tax bill are taking a close look at certain types of small businesses. They are considering a provision that would make it harder for owners of those companies to avoid paying employment taxes.

A similar provision that would have affected companies organized as S corporations was included in a 2007 proposal. That provision would have required employees who are also owners of service businesses to pay self-employment taxes on their profits. (H.R. 4213)

To voice your opinion on this issue, go to www.nwyc.com.

Financial Services: The House Financial Services Committee is expected to approve higher premium limits for the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) in an effort to secure the mortgage insurer’s long-term financial solvency. The bill considered by the panel would allow the FHA to raise the maximum allowable annual mortgage insurance premium on loans that it guarantees. (H.R.5027)

The Week Ahead: The Senate is scheduled to take up a financial regulatory overhaul bill. The House is expected to consider bills dealing with misspent federal funds, overhauling the Pentagon’s acquisition system, and Puerto Rico’s political status.

Click here to view the R&P Report as a PDF

In District 2 Iowa news ,,,

The Democrat and Republican parties in Iowa both conducted district conventions for the 2Nd Congressional District in the State of Iowa at separate locations in Fairfield on Saturday, April 24Th. Both parties elected members of to each party's State Central Committee and major candidates for various Statewide and District offices addressed the delegates, along with the party chairs for each party.

Delegates for each party will also attend State conventions in June, after the June 8, 2010 primary election for both major parties in the State of Iowa. The Democrats will conduct their State Convention on June 12Th, while the Republicans will hold their State Convention on June 26Th in Des Moines.

Robin Tucker

It's (District) Convention Time in the State of Iowa ...

It's time for those party activists to get together in the State of Iowa for District Conventions. Members of both the Democrat and Republican parties in the State of Iowa will meet for District Conventions held in each of the five Congressional districts in the State.

In the western part of the State ...

It's (district) convention time in Iowa ‎ - By Bret Hayworth -
Sioux City Journal (blog)
Iowa Republican and Democratic activists will gather in eight spots Saturday as district conventions are held to ...

In the GOP ranks, three candidates are involved in the primary for Governor, including former four-term Governor Terry Branstad. One-term incumbent Chet Culver (Dem.) will face the GOP nominee in the November general election. The primary election in the State of Iowa will be held June 8, 2010.

Senator Chuck Grassley is seeking another term representing Iowans. Grassley Works for Iowa ...

Grassley urges Obama to address trade, jobs during Iowa visit ... - The Gazette
Apr 21, 2010 ... Grassley hopes Obama talks about reversing the “hostile climate for job ....

In the Second Congressional District of Iowa, Dr. Mariannetee Miller-Meeks will face three men from Linn County in the June primary in 2010. Dr. Miller-Meeks will be in Fairfield for the 2Nd Congressional District Convention.

When did a loan become the same as raising money? Well, the Quad City Times, as did WQAD and KTVO said as much, when it ran stories about fundraising in the 2Nd Congressional GOP race and mislead the facts. IowaPolitics.com had the real numbers in the 2Nd Congressional GOP race.

The real fundraising numbers ... from IowaPolitics.com

2nd DISTRICT: Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Ottumwa, the 2008 Republican
nominee for this congressional seat, became the new frontrunner in fundraising
this quarter. Her $71,438 topped the $41,729 raised by Steve Rathje of Marion,
who was the leader last quarter.

Miller-Meeks also topped Rob Gettemy of Marion's fundraising of $28,824,
but she had less cash at the end of the reporting period because of a $100,000
personal loan that Gettemy made to his own campaign. Gettemy had $120,815 at the end of March, while Miller-Meeks had $72,702 and Rathje had $55,586.

Note: Chris Reed of Marion reported raising $14,735 for the first quarter ...

2nd District candidates report fundraising - ‎Mason City Globe Gazette
CEDAR RAPIDS — Mariannette Miller-Meeks raised $92098 for her bid to win the ... Chris Reed of Marion reported raising $14735 for the first quarter and ...

IA-02, IA-03: NRCC votes for Gettemy and Gibbons ‎- Swing State Project
It's a slap in the face to 2008 nominee Mariannette Miller-Meeks, ... help Gettemy at the district convention that would decide the Republican nominee. ...

Public policy discussions are critical at all levels of government. It's starts with our citizenry participating in the political process. We should remember these important principals of ...

• Limited Government
• Limited Spending
• Lower Taxes
• Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
• Personal Responsibility
• National Security

Remember, to vote on Election Day in 2010 and always. For voting information in Iowa, citizens can register as a Democrat, Republican or Non Party for Party, Green or Libertarian for Non-Party Political Organizations in the State.

Robin Tucker

This week's R&P Report from National Write Your Congressman ...

Many are concerned what the majority party in Washington D.C. is doing these days to our Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness. Here's a recap from National Write Your Congressman.

Vol. 14 No. 2-8

Monday, March 15, 2010

REVIEW

Tax Extenders: The Senate sent a package of tax breaks back to the House, bringing lawmakers a step closer to a conference committee on what Democrats are calling their jobs agenda. The Senate voted 62-36 to pass the bill. The tax bill would extend more than $30 billion worth of tax breaks that expired at the end of 2009. It extends, long-term unemployment benefits and health insurance subsidies for the jobless through Dec. 31. Other provisions, such as Medicaid funding assistance to states and physician payment rates under Medicare, would get shorter extensions. The bill is not fully offset, but the tax portion of it is. Because the safety-net spending is considered an “emergency” it is exempt from pay-as-you-go rules. (H.R.4213)

Jobs Measure: The Senate is taking final action on a $17.6 billion package that includes payroll tax relief for businesses that hire new workers. It would cost $13 billion over 10 years. The measure also includes extensions of the Highway Trust Fund, the Build America Bonds program and expense deductions for small businesses. The House passed the bill earlier this month but returned it to the Senate with amendments. (H.R.2847)

Tax on Bonuses: Lawmakers are considering a bill that would impose an additional tax on bonuses received from certain Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) fund recipients. The measure was sponsored by Rep. Charles Rangel (D-NY) and has 51 cosponsors. Eight other related bills have been introduced into the House.(H.R.1586)

To voice your opinion on this issue, go to www.nwyc.com.

Defense Department - F-35s: The Senate Armed Services Committee learned last week that the Pentagon’s most expensive weapons program, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, will cost tens of billions of dollars more than previously disclosed and will be fielded much later than officials recently predicted. The growing costs and schedule-setbacks left Congress members exasperated. Some vowed to continue support of the program only if it is properly managed.

Financial Overhaul: Senate Banking Chairman Christopher Dodd (D-CT) announced plans to introduce his own proposal for overhauling financial regulations. The move came after two failed rounds of negotiations between Democrats and Republicans.

Earmarks: With Senate leaders from both parties under pressure to respond to voter anger over congressional spending, lawmakers announced plans to impose restrictions on earmarks. A champion of the “tea party” movement, Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC) is pressing an amendment to impose a one-year ban on all earmarks.

Student Loan Package: Democrats debated wrapping a health care overhaul and a student loan bill into a single budget reconciliation package last week. The legislation would make the federal government the sole originator of student loans. (H.R.3221)

PREVIEW

Health Care Bill - Abortion Funding: Several Democratic lawmakers who supported a blanket ban on abortion funding in the House-passed health care bill have shown signs of wavering, an indication that they may accept the Senate version of the bill. House leaders are positioning for a final vote on health care overhaul legislation as soon as this week, (H.R.3590) (H.R.3962)

FAA Reauthorization: The Senate is continuing work on a bill that would reauthorize the FAA through fiscal 2011. It would expedite the transition to a new air traffic control system and provide airline passengers new “rights” against excessive tarmac delays, (H.R.915)

The Week Ahead: The House is expected to direct its efforts toward health care overhaul legislation, with floor votes possible. The Senate is moving forward on a bill serving as a vehicle for a $17.6 billion jobs measure (H.R.2847).

Click here to view the R&P Report as a PDF

Our Heritage

We the People of the United States of America, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America

Another good organization to follow is the Public Interest Institute located in the 2Nd Congressional District in Iowa, in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa.

Robin Tucker

News from Iowa Capital and Minority Leader Kraig Paulsen ...

Received the following update from Minority Leader Kraig Paulsen (Rep, HD35, Linn County, Iowa) for February 22, 2010 ...

Partial Budget Revealed -->

Last week in the Iowa House, Democrats released partial state budget
targets to the budget subcommittees. This is the first step in putting together
the budget for fiscal year 2011, which is the budget year that begins on July 1
of this year. This partial glance at the budget gives us an incomplete picture
of the Democrats’ spending plan but there are also some very clear signals it
sends.

The targets cover roughly $2.5 billion of the general fund budget
which. Ultimately this will be less than one-half of the general fund
expenditures. Hopefully the remainder of the plan will be forthcoming soon.

While it’s only a small glimpse of the budget, it appears that
legislative Democrats plan to carry forward Gov. Culver’s property tax
increases.

Many questions remain regarding the budget but there are
three things we know for sure. The plan the Democrats released will:

1. Spend more money than the state takes in;


2. Significantly underfund Medicaid;


3. Dramatically raises property taxes
   

Democrat leaders have said they will use one time dollars to balance the
budget. The governor recommended borrowing $200 million from the Cash Reserve
Fund, it is my expectation that Democrats will take at least that much. There is
also one-time federal stimulus dollars remaining which will be spent by
Democrats in this budget ($200 million). This allows them to spend more than we
have in ongoing revenue. I understand the need to meet Iowans’ needs, but this
is a set-up for increased fiscal troubles down the road and more tax increases
than the governor has already done.

Additionally, the House
Appropriations chair stated last week that the Democrats intend to under-fund
Medicaid (health care for the poor and elderly). Since Medicaid is an
entitlement, this just pushes the problem off until next January when the
Legislature will be forced to appropriate funds to eliminate the shortfall
caused by the under-funding. This is not optional spending, all underfunding now
does is make it easier to temporarily balance the budget.

Lastly, you
may recall from previous newsletters that when Governor Culver did his across
the board cut he raised Iowans’ property taxes by an amount that could be as
much as $250 million, approximately a 6 to 7% increase. This occurs because K-12
education expenses were transferred from state funding to the back of the
property taxpayer. Democrat legislative leaders have indicated they intend
continue these tax increases.

At this point the budget lacks clarity in
many regards but this is basically what we know at this time.

House
Republicans believe in open and transparent budgeting. Furthermore, it’s vital
that the budget not spend more than the state takes in and not raise taxes,
especially property taxes.

As we continue to move through the budget
process, House Republicans will offer more budget savings ideas. We have already
offered multiple ideas this year that when added together come close to $300
million in savings. We’re committed to commonsense budgeting and being frugal
with taxpayers’ dollars.

As always, feel free to contact me if you have
any questions or concerns. Feel free to call my office at (515) 281-3521 or
email me at mailto:kraig.paulsen@legis.state.ia.us

2010
is an election year and I believe we have great opportunities to elect more
Republicans to your Iowa House of Representatives. I would appreciate your
support with a financial contribution, please visit:

http://victorydiy.com/secure/diy/shopping_cart_contrib.php?addtocart=29&site=1133&contrib.

These dollars will be used for candidate training and constituent
contact, ensuring we are able to communicate our message effectively.

Robin Tucker serves as a member of the Linn County Republican Central Committee for CR 41 (votes at Bethany across from Washington HS) and has been involved in HD 38 for the LCRCC, served currently by Tyler Olson (Dem).

Robin Tucker is Linn County Chair for Miller-Meeks for Congress. Dr. Miller-Meeks is seeking the Republican nomination for U.S. Congress in the 2Nd District for the State of Iowa. The 2Nd district includes both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, Linn and Johnson Counities.

Robin Tucker

Robin Tucker is a member of National Write Your Congressman