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Scott Rigell U.S. Congress

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03/08/2010 10:39AM :

March 5, 2010

SCOTT RIGELL CALLS ON GLENN NYE TO RETURN TAINTED CASH FROM CHARLIE RANGEL


Freshman incumbent has voted twice to allow Rangel to keep the chairmanship of the House tax-writing committee despite allegations of serious ethical misconduct




VIRGINIA BEACH, VA:  Scott Rigell, Republican candidate in Virginia’s Second Congressional District, called on Democratic freshman incumbent Congressman Glenn Nye to return the campaign contributions he has received from disgraced former House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charlie Rangel (D-New York).  Congressman Rangel is being investigated by the House ethics committee for a wide range of alleged ethical violations, including failing to report on required federal disclosure forms several hundred thousand dollars of income, failing to pay taxes on a vacation home in the Dominican Republic, misuse of a New York City rent-controlled apartment for political purposes, and violating House rules when traveling to a Caribbean vacation conference in 2007 and 2008.

Rangel has already been formally admonished by the House ethics committee for violating ethical rules related to the receipt of gifts.  Earlier this week, he temporarily stepped aside as Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee until the ethics investigation concludes.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi promised “the most ethical Congress in history”; however, House Democrats, including Congressman Glenn Nye, have twice voted to allow Congressman Rangel to keep his powerful chairmanship despite the serious ethical allegations against him.

Rigell released the following statement on Friday:

“With each passing day, it becomes clearer that the professional politicians in Washington are out of touch.  Our elected officials are there to do the business of the American people, not to attend Caribbean vacations or use their political office for personal gain.  Twice, our freshman Congressman has had the opportunity to demonstrate leadership on this issue, and twice he has voted with his Democratic colleagues to keep Charlie Rangel as chairman of one of the most powerful committees in Washington.

It is ironic that Glenn Nye has no problem with the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee failing to report potentially thousands of dollars of income when this is the very same committee that is responsible for writing the United States tax code.

It seems that Congressman Nye is more concerned about his reelection than reforming Washington and leading by example.  While a number of Congressman Nye’s Democratic colleagues have returned Rangel’s tainted campaign contributions, our freshman incumbent has refused to do so.   Even the Democratically-controlled House Ethics Committee has admonished Rangel. Congressman Nye should either donate the $14,000 in tainted contributions to local charities such as the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia or return them to his friend Congressman Rangel.  Congressman Nye is supposed to be helping the people of the Second Congressional District, not an ethically challenged, out-of-touch politician from New York.” 

How Do You Stop Pelosi?  Elect Scott Rigell.  Business Sense.  Conservative Convictions.

Scott Rigell, 49, has a proven, 25 year track record of job creation, entrepreneurship and community leadership. The founder and Chairman of Freedom Automotive in Virginia Beach, Scott served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve for six years.  Scott earned his B.B.A. from Mercer University and an M.B.A. from Regent University in Virginia Beach, where he and his wife, Teri, reside.  For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com or join his Facebook site at www.facebook.com/scottrigell.  Financially support Scott Rigell and his campaign to bring accountability to Washington by donating here.  You can also contact the Campaign Manager, Jason Miyares at (757) 802-9936 or Jason@ScottRigell.com.

Paid for by Scott Rigell for Congress

02/11/2010 09:40PM : SCOTT RIGELL ELEVATED TO “CONTENDER” STATUS BY THE NATIONAL REPUBLICAN CONGRESSIONAL COMMITTEE

Rigell is the only candidate in the 2nd Congressional District


to qualify for their top candidate program



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – Local businessman and entrepreneur Scott Rigell, Republican candidate for United States Congress in Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, has advanced to “Contender” status in the National Republican Congressional Committee’s (NRCC) prestigious Young Guns program for its top Republican challengers in the nation.  Rigell was listed as “On the Radar” by the NRCC in October 2009 after he was one of a handful of candidates across the country to outraise an incumbent in total individual contributions.  Rigell recently announced that he has more cash on hand than all of his Republican rivals combined.  Following a six hundred person campaign kick-off, countless local endorsements, a grassroots operation second to none, and the release of Rigell’s impressive 4th quarter fundraising results, the NRCC advanced Rigell in the Young Guns program by naming him as a “Contender.”

“Scott Rigell has already proven that he will be a formidable candidate by meeting the Young Guns program’s rigorous goals and is well on his way to building a winning campaign to put this seat back in the Republican column,” said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions.  “Scott is part of a strong and growing candidate pool of everyday Americans who are frustrated with the majority’s big-government ways and aren’t willing to stand idly by any longer.” 

The Young Guns program is the official NRCC program dedicated to promoting and electing open-seat and challenger candidates nationwide.  No other candidate in the 2nd Congressional District has reached the necessary benchmarks to be included in the Young Guns program.    All steps of the program have specific benchmarks for successful campaign structure and fundraising ability. 

Scott Rigell released the following statement on Thursday:

“Our message about getting America back on the right track with new, proven leadership is resonating with the American people.  They are appalled by what is going on in Washington, and they support our conservative message of accountability in government, reigning in federal spending, and energy independence, as well as lower taxes and less regulation to create jobs.  My campaign values the incredible local support we’ve received on all levels, from local school board members, to members of the General Assembly, to local unit Chairmen, to our incredible group of high school volunteers.  I am pleased the NRCC recognizes that our campaign has the broad support and resources necessary to defeat our Democratic freshman incumbent Representative Glenn Nye.”    

Scott Rigell, 49, has a proven, 25 year track record of job creation, entrepreneurship and community leadership. The founder and Chairman of Freedom Automotive in Virginia Beach, Scott served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve for six years.  Scott earned his B.B.A. from Mercer University and an M.B.A. from Regent University in Virginia Beach, where he and his wife, Teri, reside.  For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com or join his Facebook site at www.facebook.com/scottrigell.  You can also contact the Campaign Manager, Jason Miyares at (757) 679-5143 or Jason@ScottRigell.com. 

02/07/2010 05:36PM : For GOP, No Experience Is No Problem

Party Drafts Political Newcomers as Candidates in a Bid to Capitalize on Voters' Anti-Incumbent, Anti-Washington Mood



By SUSAN DAVIS

Scott Rigell is best known around Virginia Beach as a car dealer. Come January, he is hoping to be known by another title: congressman.

Seeking to tap into growing anti-establishment discord among voters, the Republican Party is actively seeking candidates who have never before held elected office.

Bruce O'Donoghue owns a company that makes traffic-light systems; he is challenging Florida Democratic Rep. Alan Grayson. Jon Runyan, a former player for the Philadelphia Eagles and San Diego Chargers, is running in southern New Jersey.


[NEWBIES2]



"My roots run deep in Tennessee, not politics," reads the banner across the campaign Web site of Stephen Fincher, a Tennessee farmer and gospel singer heavily wooed by Washington Republicans to run this year.

Such Republicans are contesting six of the 20 most competitive House seats currently held by Democrats. At least as many are found in districts that could become more competitive as election season heats up. Filing deadlines to run for Congress are still months away in most states, so it is possible more newcomers could join the fold.

Running political newcomers is a proven strategy when the political tide swings drastically toward one side, and at times when voters have soured on Washington in general. In 1994, when Republicans won a majority of House seats after four decades in the minority, 55% of the party's 73 freshmen lawmakers had never held political office. Similarly in 2006, when Democrats took control, 45% of their new lawmakers had never held office before.

Chris Russell, campaign consultant for Mr. Runyan, called 2010 a good year to be running as an outsider. "I don't want to overstate it, but people hate politicians," he said.

The strategy could help Republicans tap into enthusiasm generated among Tea Party groups and other conservatives. Though these activists have sprung from the right, they remain antagonistic toward the GOP establishment. The movement arose in part as a backlash against the government's intervention in Wall Street and the auto industry, as well as opposition to Democratic initiatives, including a health-care overhaul.


[NEWBIES1]



This year, running newcomers is "absolutely the story of Republican recruiting," said David Wasserman, a House race analyst for the nonpartisan Cook Political Report. Cook currently predicts the GOP will gain between 25 and 35 House seats this fall, and doesn't rule out the more distant possibility of a Republican takeover, which would require a net gain of 40 seats.

Mr. Wasserman predicted a significant number of freshmen GOP lawmakers this November would be political newcomers. Many are running on a platform of fiscal rectitude, a nod to how the economy and role of government are dominating public debate. "We really are at a defining moment," Mr. Rigell said in an interview, during which he echoed a theme of economic uncertainty voiced by other candidates. "I look at the fiscal side of this country and I am alarmed and deeply troubled."

Unlike the 1994 setback, which caught the Democrats by surprise, the party is keenly aware of the political headwinds they face in the midterms, when the president's party typically loses seats.

The House Democrats' campaign operation has a significant cash advantage over its Republican counterpart: $16.6 million to $2.7 million. And incumbents are fund-raising in anticipation of competitive contests. Florida's Mr. Grayson said Wednesday that his $861,000 fourth-quarter haul was more than any other Democratic candidate's.

Many of these newcomers will also have to survive primary elections. Mr. O'Donoghue is favored by party leaders—he expects to be endorsed by Florida's retiring Republican Sen. Mel Martinez this week—but a crowded 12-way primary awaits.

Moreover, voters aren't necessarily ready to embrace Republicans, despite GOP victories in governor's races last year in Virginia and New Jersey and an upset win in last month's Massachusetts U.S. Senate race. Those victories relied on independent voters, not party loyalists.

A January Wall Street Journal/NBC poll showed 42% of Americans held a negative view of the Republican Party and 30% held a positive one. "The Republican brand is damaged," Mr. Rigell said. "I have to overcome that."

There are early signals that voters are willing to welcome new blood. In an Illinois Republican primary on Tuesday, pest-management company manager Bob Dold upset the initial party favorite, State Rep. Beth Coulson. Mr. Dold now faces Dan Seals, the Democrats' unsuccessful 2006 and 2008 nominee, in what could be one of the most competitive contests this year.

Several rookie candidates said they hope their bids will capture the enthusiasm of activists, in particular Tea Party voters.

Mike Grimm, a former undercover agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation who investigated white-collar crime on Wall Street, is running in the New York district held by Democratic Rep. Mike McMahon. He said the district, in the New York City borough of Staten Island, has one of the most active Tea Party groups in the nation. While the group doesn't endorse candidates, Mr. Grimm seeks counsel from local Tea Party leader Frank Santarpia. "I pick his brain all the time," Mr. Grimm said.

Mr. Santarpia said he likes the idea of newcomers running for Congress. "There's a great deal of appeal to that. It certainly appeals to me," he said.

Write to Susan Davis at susan.davis@wsj.com

02/05/2010 05:00PM : SCOTT RIGELL OUTRAISES ALL REPUBLICAN OPPONENTS

Another six figure fundraising quarter for Scott Rigell creates unmatched momentum and more cash on hand than his five Republican rivals combined 


Rigell has raised over $660,000 since start of his candidacy



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – Local businessman and entrepreneur Scott Rigell, Republican candidate for Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, announced today that he raised a total of over $225,000 in the last quarter of fundraising, reconfirming his status as one of the top Republican challengers in the nation and released the following statement:

“I continue to be humbled by the breadth and depth of support I have received from the people of the 2nd District.  People recognize that our region is not being well-represented in Congress and that we need tested, proven leadership in these difficult times.  I’m proud to say that roughly 80% of the individual donors to my campaign are hard-working residents of Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore, which shows the extensive local community support for my campaign.  It is a sign of our campaign’s message of job growth, fiscal responsibility, and energy independence that we’ve raised more money than all five of our opponents for the Republican nomination combined.”

Scott Rigell reported raising $660,000 since formally filing as a candidate on July 8, 2009.  Almost 400 people have contributed to his campaign to defeat the freshman incumbent.  With more than $500,000 cash on hand, which is also more than all of his Republican opponents combined, Rigell is the undisputed fundraising leader and clear frontrunner to win the Republican nomination.

“The amount of money raised in a community is just one demonstration of the amount of support a candidate has in the community.  Our finance numbers, coupled with the unbelievable grassroots support for Scott Rigell, means we are prepared to bring an end to the era of One-Party rule in Washington,” remarked Jason Miyares, Campaign Manager for Scott Rigell for Congress. “Scott Rigell’s business background, common-sense conservative values, and belief in holding Washington accountable for their irresponsible spending has created a surge of support for his candidacy,” said Miyares.  “The majority of Scott’s money was raised from individual donors who know Scott and have worked with him for the past few decades as he has invested in the community and run his business.  They want someone they trust – someone that knows how to create jobs and keep taxes and regulation low - to represent Hampton Roads and Eastern Shore working families in Congress.”

Since the start of his campaign in July, Scott Rigell has outraised Glenn Nye from individual contributors by $340,000 to $219,000 and has had over a hundred more individual contributors.  Rigell again raised well over six figures from individual contributors for the reporting period covering October 1 through December 31, 2009, with a total of $113,784.   He also matched the support of his donors with $100,000 of his personal money for a total of $213,784 raised during the quarter.  By comparison, Democratic freshman incumbent Representative Glenn Nye raised $192,912.49 for the same quarter, with 45% of Nye’s money coming from political action committees (PACs).    

Scott Rigell, 49, has a proven, 25 year track record of job creation, entrepreneurship and community leadership. The founder and Chairman of Freedom Automotive in Virginia Beach, Scott served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve for six years.  Scott earned his B.B.A. from Mercer University and an M.B.A. from Regent University in Virginia Beach, where he and his wife, Teri, reside.  For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com or join his Facebook site at www.facebook.com/scottrigell.  You can also contact the Campaign Manager, Jason Miyares at (757) 679-5143 or Jason@ScottRigell.com. 

02/02/2010 11:00PM : RIGELL SLAMS NYE'S LACK OF LEADERSHIP AND JUDGMENT

Scott Rigell holds Freshman Congressman Glenn Nye accountable for failure to lead on local defense issues, energy independence, and Nye’s lack of judgment in foreign policy.  



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA:  Scott Rigell, Republican candidate in Virginia’s Second Congressional District, issued his sharpest criticism of Democratic freshman incumbent Glenn Nye’s lack of leadership in the United States Congress regarding the carrier move to Florida, off-shore energy exploration, and his judgment in foreign policy affecting the security of the citizens of Israel.

Rigell released the following statement on Monday:

“The Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) issued today announced that the Navy will move a Hampton Roads – based aircraft carrier to Mayport, Florida.  The move will mean the loss of 11,000 local jobs and $650 million in annual economic activity in the region.  This is a devastating loss for hard working families and small businesses in our communities.   

Moving an aircraft carrier to Florida has been on the table for years.  Yet our freshman incumbent has been completely ineffective and largely silent on the issue, waiting a full year after he took office, and just days before the QDR was published, to form a commission to coordinate our region’s response to Florida’s relentless efforts to move our military assets and commands.  Even Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim noted that the action Nye took in coordinating the region’s response was long overdue.”  

Rigell also held the freshman congressman accountable for his failure to lead on off-shore energy exploration.  Governor Bob McDonnell, along with both Democratic Senators Jim Webb and Mark Warner have urged Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar not to delay the lease-sale off the Virginia coast; however, Congressman Nye, in typical fashion, has been largely silent on the issue.  Rigell stated:

“Once again our freshman incumbent has failed to lead and, again, it is the hard working families of Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore who pay the price for his uncertainty and inexperience.  Instead of leading, Nye is, at best, following. 

He has failed to share a clear and compelling vision for our region and our nation.  The challenges before us are of such magnitude that we cannot afford to stay on this path of on-the-job training for our freshman congressman.   We owe it to ourselves and the next generation of Americans to be well represented and humbly served by a person who has a demonstrated, verifiable track record of leadership and job creation.” 

Rigell further held Congressman Nye accountable for not supporting Israel.  The freshman congressman was one of 54 Democratic representatives to call upon Israel in a signed letter to lift travel restrictions in Gaza.  Innocent Israeli citizens have been the target of over 8,600 rocket and mortar attacks from Hamas terrorists, and in an act of self-defense, Israel restricted travel access from Gaza into Israel in order to curb the importation of illegal Qassam rockets by the terrorist organization Hamas. In December 2008, Hamas ended a ceasefire with Israel and has since fired thousands of rockets into Israel, including the cities of Sderot, Ashkelon, Ashdod, and Beersheba.  Rigell visited Sderot in January of 2010. 

 Rigell also issued the following statement today:

“Having just returned from a fact-finding visit to Israel, where I met with senior Israel leadership and saw firsthand the rockets that have terrorized the city of Sderot and neighboring cities in the south of Israel, I am stunned by our freshman congressman’s decision to sign this letter.  By signing the letter and aligning himself with the most liberal members of our Congress, including John Conyer, Jim McGovern and Barbara Lee, Congressman Nye seems more concerned about the rights of Hamas than innocent Israeli citizens.  Our freshman congressman fails to fully understand that Hamas is an organization that openly calls for the destruction of the State of Israel and has used Israel’s voluntary withdrawal from Gaza to turn schools into terrorist bases, homes into rocket launch pads, and market places into battlefields.  The travel restrictions on Gaza are reasonable given Israel’s right, indeed its duty, to protect its citizens.  Our freshman congressman has made clear that he has a naïve world view and a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature and scope of the threat posed by Hamas to the citizens of our ally, Israel.”

 

Scott Rigell, 49, has a proven, 25 year track record of job creation, entrepreneurship and community leadership. The founder and Chairman of Freedom Automotive in Virginia Beach, Scott served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve for six years.  Scott earned his B.B.A. from Mercer University and an M.B.A. from Regent University in Virginia Beach, where he and his wife, Teri, reside.  For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com or join his Facebook site at www.facebook.com/scottrigell.  You can also contact the Campaign Manager, Jason Miyares at (757) 679-5143 or Jason@ScottRigell.com.  

01/22/2010 04:14PM : RIGELL ENDORSED BY PRO-LIFE LEADERS

 

 National Pro-Life & Pro-Family Leaders Kay Coles James and Reverend Louis P. Sheldon endorse Scott Rigell for Congress 

 

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA: Scott Rigell, Republican candidate for United States Congress, received endorsements from two national pro-life, pro-family leaders today on the 37th anniversary of the United States Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion. He was endorsed by Kay Coles James, currently serving on the Board of Trustees for the Heritage Foundation and former Senior Vice President for the Family Research Council.* She issued the following statement today:

"On this, the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, I can think of few leaders more committed to the sanctity of human life and building a culture of life than Scott Rigell. He is the type of man that the voters of Hampton Roads, where I was born and raised, can count on to stand up for our values of life and liberty in the United States Congress. I am proud to endorse Scott Rigell for Congress."


Kay Coles James served as Dean of the Robertson School of Government at Regent University, is the former director for the United States Office of Personnel Management under President George W. Bush, and served as Secretary of Health and Human Services under then-Governor George Allen where she championed welfare reform. In 2009, she served as the Chairwoman of the Republican Party of Virginia State Convention. She is currently the President of the Gloucester Institute.


National pro-family leader Reverend Louis P. Sheldon, founder and chairman of the Traditional Values Coalition,* also endorsed conservative business leader Scott Rigell for United States Congress.


In a note to prominent national conservative leaders, Reverend Sheldon wrote:


"Having worked in the pro-family, religious community for over thirty years with the Traditional Values Coalition, I know the qualities that a conservative pro-family leader should possess, and Scott Rigell is such a leader. He represents the future of the conservative traditional values movement in this nation."


The Traditional Values Coalition (TVC) is the largest non-denominational, grassroots church lobby in America. Founded in 1980 by Reverend Sheldon, TVC speaks on behalf of over 43,000 churches across the nation.  Reverend Sheldon works regularly with members of the House and Senate and their staffs on a variety of pro-family issues of concern.


On Friday, pro-life and pro-family candidate Scott Rigell signed the virtual March for Life along with many high-profile national conservative leaders and thousands of other Americans. He encouraged all pro-life Americans to join him in signing the virtual march at http://www.virtualmarchforlife.com/.


Scott Rigell, 49, is a lifelong Republican, community leader and business owner from Virginia Beach, Virginia. The founder and Chairman of Freedom Automotive in Virginia Beach, Scott Rigell also served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve for six years. Scott Rigell earned his B.B.A. from Mercer University and a M.B.A. from Regent University in Virginia Beach.


For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com or join his Facebook site at www.facebook.com/scottrigell. You can also contact the Campaign Manager, Jason Miyares at (757) 679-5143 or Jason@ScottRigell.com.


NOTE: *Titles are for identification purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of the campaign. Endorsements are as individuals only.


 


 


01/14/2010 01:03PM : RIGELL CALLS FOR LEADERSHIP TO ADDRESS POSSIBLE CARRIER LOSS

Scott Rigell invites our elected leaders to join him in protecting local economy





VIRGINIA BEACH, VA:  Scott Rigell, Republican candidate in Virginia’s Second Congressional District, expressed deep concern over the impact to the region if the Navy moves or decommissions a locally based nuclear aircraft carrier (CVN).

Rigell released the following statement on Thursday:

“Delegations from Florida, South Carolina and Texas are lobbying aggressively to move our military commands and assets to their states.  The response by our federal representatives has been tepid and wholly inadequate, creating a leadership void that Florida has exploited.  As a result, Florida is making consistent progress in its relentless effort to have one (or more) of the nuclear aircraft carriers based in Norfolk moved to its Mayport facility.

If our leadership in Washington fails to stop the Florida delegation, our local economy, which is already hurting from the effects of the recession and bracing for the decommissioning of the USS Enterprise, will reel from the loss of 3,000 more military jobs.

The facts that support keeping east coast carriers ported exclusively in Norfolk are compelling.  As our country strains under the burden of a 13 trillion dollar deficit, it is fiscally imprudent and strategically unnecessary to spend what could be up to 2.5 billion dollars to prepare Mayport to port and service a CVN.

The proper foundation of a plan to provide great job opportunities for our Hampton Roads and Eastern Shore families is successfully protecting the jobs we already have.  I call on Congressman Glenn Nye to defend our region’s jobs, go beyond simply writing letters, and truly lead.”

For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com or join his Facebook site at www.facebook.com/scottrigell.  You can also contact Jason Miyares at (757) 679-5143 or Jason@ScottRigell.com. 

PAID FOR BY SCOTT RIGELL FOR CONGRESS


01/07/2010 12:15PM : Nearly 600 Attend the Launch of Scott Rigell’s Campaign for U.S. Congress

Scott Rigell shares his vision to put America back on the right track


Governor-elect Bob McDonnell & NFL Hall of Fame Lineman Bruce Smith make surprise appearances



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA:  Scott Rigell, Republican candidate in Virginia’s Second Congressional District, officially launched his campaign Tuesday evening at the Westin hotel in his hometown of Virginia Beach.   A standing room only crowd of nearly 600 witnessed Rigell give an impassioned speech on his values and his vision to help get America’s economy moving again.

Highlighting his experience as a job creator and entrepreneur, Rigell stated:

“Unlike the politicians in Washington, I’ve met a budget.  Unlike the politicians in Washington, I’ve met a payroll.  Unlike the politicians in Washington, I have made a living in the real world.”

Scott Rigell later concluded:

“We find ourselves now at a defining crossroad in our American journey:  Two tracks are before us, and they are not headed to the same destination.

The first track is led by Nancy Pelosi.  Because Nancy Pelosi’s values and agenda align with his own, our freshman incumbent voted to make Nancy Pelosi the Speaker of the House.  The track they have chosen for America is littered with government regulation, reckless bailouts and an out-of-control federal debt which now exceeds 12 trillion dollars.

It has us sending 500 billion dollars overseas each year to buy foreign oil, some of which ends up in the hands of men like Hugo Chavez, a dictator whose values are diametrically opposed to ours.

It is a flawed, twisted track that has self-serving career politicians growing government at the price of individual freedom, and in my view, our very national security.”

Scott was introduced by Teri Rigell, his wife of 28 years, and a moving biographical video was shown to the over capacity crowd.   To watch a short video highlight of his speech, click here.

Included in the crowd were numerous members of the General Assembly, Virginia Beach Constitutional Officers and City Council members, as well as an unexpected appearance by Governor-elect Bob McDonnell.    Former Washington Redskin and NFL Hall of Famer Bruce Smith also made a surprise appearance.

The groundswell of grassroots support was echoed by the enthusiastic response from longtime political activists.  Colin Cowling, Chairman of the Northampton Republican Committee, stated:

“I’ve been to numerous District Conventions that did not have that many people in attendance.  And the crowd from last night is fired up and committed . . . I sensed a deep seated resolve and determination the likes of which I don’t think I’ve ever witnessed in my 20 years of political activity.”

For photos and video of the event, visit www.facebook.com/ScottRigell.

Rigell was recently named as the “emerging front-runner” by the Virginian-Pilot. He is a leading national candidate, has been recognized by the National Republican Congressional Committee’s Young Gun program, and is predicted to make Virginia’s 2nd District congressional race one of the most high profile races in the country.

For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com or join his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/scottrigell.  You can also contact Jason Miyares at (757) 679-5143 or Jason@ScottRigell.com. 

PAID FOR BY SCOTT RIGELL FOR CONGRESS


01/04/2010 12:05PM : National Conservative Leaders Sekulow and Farris Back Scott Rigell for Congress

Two of the Nation’s Most Recognized Pro-Family Leaders


Endorse Scott Rigell



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA:  On the eve of his official campaign kick-off, two nationally recognized conservative leaders endorsed Scott Rigell in his candidacy for the Republican nomination for Virginia’s Second Congressional District.  Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), and Michael P. Farris, founder of the Home School Legal Defense Fund and former Virginia Lt. Governor nominee, have endorsed Scott Rigell’s campaign to provide common-sense, conservative leadership for Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore.

Jay Sekulow released the following statement on Monday:

"Only one person in this race has the life long record of living out conservative values.  From his days earning an MBA at Regent University, to building up a thriving business with more than 240 employees, to standing arm in arm with conservative candidates in race after race in the 2nd district, Scott Rigell is a conservative leader I trust.

When it comes to defending religious liberty, fighting big government, and preserving our values in Congress, Scott Rigell is the obvious choice for conservatives."

Jay Sekulow is Chief Counsel for the ACLJ, a national organization dedicated to the ideal that religious freedom and freedom of speech are inalienable, God-given rights.  TIME Magazine has called the ACLJ “a powerful counterweight” to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).  An accomplished and respected judicial advocate, Sekulow has argued close to a dozen cases before the United States Supreme Court in defense of constitutional freedoms and opinion pieces have appeared in the nation’s leading newspapers including the New York Times and Washington Post.  He is also the host of a popular talk radio show, Jay Sekulow Live!  In 2005, Sekulow was named one of TIME Magazine's "25 Most Influential Evangelicals in America” and has been named one of the “100 Most Influential Lawyers” in the United States twice by The National Law Journal.

 Michael P. Farris also endorsed Scott Rigell’s candidacy and released the following statement Monday:

“I see many good conservative candidates come and go, but Scott Rigell is that rare candidate who has combined strong conservative credentials with the seriousness and resolve of a seasoned statesman.  What is more, he has already demonstrated his ability to run a top-notch campaign capable of winning next November.”

Moreover, Scott Rigell understands the importance of giving parents the freedom to raise and educate their children while respecting the great constitutional protections we enjoy.  I am excited to fully support his bid for U.S. Congress in Virginia’s Second Congressional District."

 Michael Farris is the Chairman of the Home School Legal Defense Fund, Chancellor of Patrick Henry College in Purcellville, Virginia and a member of the Board of Directors of the Free Congress Foundation.  In 1993, Farris was also the Republican nominee for Lieutenant Governor.  A prominent pro-family attorney and nationally recognized advocate for Home School families, Farris was named by Education Week as one of the “Top 100 Faces in Education of the 20th Century.” Farris has also argued constitutional cases in front of the United States Supreme Court, United States Circuit Courts of Appeals and in a variety of state appellate courts.

Scott Rigell responded to the endorsement of his campaign by two nationally recognized conservative leaders with the following statement:

“I just had the pleasure of returning from a visit to Israel with Jay Sekulow and witnessed the incredible security challenges that great nation faces every day.  Jay has been a long-time advocate for religious freedom and constitutional liberty; it is an honor to have his support.

Mike Farris is a nationally recognized leader for those families that exercise the freedom to educate their children at home.  Teri and I had the pleasure of homeschooling each of our four beautiful children at different stages of their lives.  Mike has always been a faithful leader in the conservative movement in America and Virginia.

I am humbled to receive the support of these two conservative leaders for my campaign, but I most honored by the incredible support I have already received from thousands of families throughout Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore.”

Scott Rigell continues to build momentum for the Republican nomination for Virginia’s Second Congressional District on the local and national level.  Locally, he has received the support of former Congresswoman Thelma Drake, over a dozen former and current members of the Virginia General Assembly, close to a dozen former and current Republican Party unit chairmen, two members of Virginia Beach City Council, two mayors on the Eastern Shore, and several Virginia Beach constitutional officers.  A full list of endorsements can be found at www.ScottRigell.com.

For more information on Scott Rigell, visit him online at www.ScottRigell.com.You can also contact Jason Miyares at (757) 679-5143 or Jason@ScottRigell.com.  His official Campaign Kick-Off is Tuesday, January 5, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. the Westin Hotel located at the Town Center of Virginia Beach.

NOTE: *Titles are for identification purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any campaign.  Endorsements are as individuals only.

PAID FOR BY SCOTT RIGELL FOR CONGRESS


12/20/2009 11:30PM :
Chuck Smith Announces Withdrawal From His Campaign For the 2nd District Congressional Seat

Endorses Scott Rigell for Congress



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA:  Chuck Smith, candidate for the Republican Party nomination for the 2nd District Congressional seat, announced his withdrawal from the race today.  The former Chairman of the Virginia Beach Republican Party, ex-Navy JAG Officer and Marine issued the following statement today:

“Today I am announcing the end of a journey and the start of a new one. When I announced my campaign for Congress, it was to offer a new and committed path to rebuild and strengthen our communities through conservative principles.  I believe strongly in the principles of duty, honor and love of country.  My conservative principles are what lead me to serve my country, first as a United States Marine and then as a Naval JAG Officer.  This campaign has always been about putting God, country and family first.    And these are the same reasons why I am ending my candidacy for the Republican nomination for the 2nd District congressional seat.

Over the past year, spending in Washington has been out of control, and it is only getting worse.  We must help turn the tide by taking back this congressional seat in 2010.  To win, we need a candidate who is conservative, principled and can provide a clear vision for voters on how to get our economy moving again.

That man is Scott Rigell. Unlike the freshman incumbent, Scott has literally created hundreds of jobs right here in Hampton Roads.  As a successful entrepreneur, he has turned around a business, started new businesses, created good jobs, and balanced a budget.  Scott Rigell doesn’t just talk about his conservative principles – he’s lived them, making tough decisions to keep his businesses growing.  And as a fellow Marine, he will always be dedicated to our veterans and our military.

Scott Rigell has the strength and conservative grounding to stand up to the runaway agenda now driving Washington.  That is why I am proud to stand with him and support his candidacy for United States Congress.”

Scott Rigell issued the following statement on Friday:

“It is a true honor to receive the support of my friend and colleague, Chuck Smith.   As a former Chairman of the Virginia Beach Republican Party, he led the party with firm resolve and a clear vision.   Chuck has spent over three decades serving his country as both as a Marine and former Navy JAG Officer and is a successful local attorney, Republican Party leader and conservative.  Chuck leads from the front, and it is a privilege to have him stand by my side.

My campaign is about creating jobs for Hampton Roads and Eastern Shore families that are hurting, bringing accountability to Congress, and leading America to true energy independence.   It is vital we unite the Republican Party to win in November.  I am both humbled and honored to receive Chuck Smith’s endorsement for my campaign for the Second Congressional District.”

12/02/2009 06:40PM :
REPUBLICAN SCOTT RIGELL EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER PRESIDENT OBAMA'S PLAN FOR AFGHANISTAN

America should be fighting to win, instead of fighting not to lose



 
PRESS RELEASE:                                                                  CONTACT:  Jason Miyares
For Immediate Release                                            

VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA:  Scott Rigell, Republican candidate in Virginia's 2nd Congressional District, today expressed concern over President Obama's recently announced plans to add 30,000 troops in Afghanistan, but then begin withdrawing troops in 18 months. 
 
Scott Rigell issued the following statement on Wednesday:
 
"I fully support the brave men and women of our armed forces.  They deserve our unending gratitude for continuing to fight amidst challenging situations.  They also deserve to have a clear goal and leadership that will make the necessary provisions to successfully accomplish that goal. 
 
Unfortunately, President Obama is showing that America's new plan is simply fighting not to lose in Afghanistan.  Instead, I believe we should be fighting to win.  Fighting to win means not broadcasting to the enemy when we will withdraw from the fight.  Such a disclosure simply tells those who wish us harm how long they must survive before they win by default.
 
I urge President Obama and Congress to make it America's goal to win the fight in Afghanistan, so that our brave troops can return home for good once our goals are met.  Otherwise, America will be forced to intervene in Afghanistan later when the forces of evil take over again after being left to their own devices 18 months from now. 
 
Our troops deserve and must be given the full support and commitment they need to succeed once and for all.  This means allowing the proper rules of engagement, providing the necessary funding that will protect our troops from harm and allowing the men and women of our armed forces to do what they do best - fight evil so that America will remain safe and secure."

11/19/2009 12:10PM :
REPUBLICAN SCOTT RIGELL DEMANDS ACCOUNTABILITY FROM PELOSI-LED CONGRESS

Recovery.gov shows thousands of phantom jobs and almost $1 billion spent with no effect on jobs


Rigell urges Nye to demand a full and independent audit of stimulus funds tracked by $18 million taxpayer-funded website



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA - Scott Rigell, the Republican candidate in Virginia's 2nd Congressional District, demanded accountability Thursday from Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic Congress for where and how taxpayer dollars were spent, and precisely how many jobs were created or saved after new information emerged about the results of the federal stimulus package from Recovery.gov, the federal government website tracking stimulus money.

Almost $1 billion was spent on projects that did not create or save even a single job, according to a recent ABC News report. Locally, The Virginian-Pilot reported that non-existent congressional districts in Virginia were purported to have received millions of dollars in stimulus funds.

Scott Rigell issued the following statement on Thursday:

At a time when Hampton Roads and Eastern Shore families are struggling, it is simply unconscionable that we have an $18 million taxpayer-funded website that creates more questions than answers as to how our tax dollars have been spent. This disturbing news is yet another reminder that we simply can't trust Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic Congress to handle a government takeover of health care, which is 1/6th of our entire economy.

The 10.2% unemployment rate is having disastrous effects on hard-working Americans who are struggling to find work and make ends meet. Now we are learning that the federal stimulus package, which has only added to our burdensome national debt, is not even coming close to doing what it was allegedly aimed to do - create jobs. Instead, the Obama administration's jobs math is proving to be a fabrication.

Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats are spending too much, they're taxing too much, and they're growing government too much and too fast. Instead of creating more federal bureaucracy, we need to allow small businesses to create more jobs and get spending under control.

Since Congressman Glenn Nye voted for this $787 billion stimulus package, I urge him to demand a full and independent audit of where the money went, how it was spent, and its actual results. Americans will be saddled with debt from the federal stimulus package for years to come, and they deserve to know whether jobs were created as a consequence.

We need leaders in Washington who have experience in creating jobs - someone who will fight for policies that will get our economy moving again and demand accountability rather than giving free reign to Nancy Pelosi to waste our hard-earned tax dollars.

11/10/2009 05:54PM :
Scott Rigell urges the Senate to vote 'No' on Pelosi-Care

Nye's support for taxpayer-funded abortion places him outside of the mainstream of Hampton Roads Voters


VIRGINIA BEACH, VA:  The weekend passage of a $1 Trillion health care "reform" by the United States House of Representatives has led Republican Scott Rigell - candidate in Virginia's 2nd Congressional District - to urge the United States Senate to not pass the controversial legislation.


Scott Rigell issued the following statement on Tuesday:


"At a time when unemployment is over 10% and families in Hampton Roads and on the Eastern Shore are hurting, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats are more interested in a mammoth takeover of the nation's health care system than fixing our ailing economy.  And as usual, Congressman Glenn Nye seems unable to decide whether to please his liberal Democratic leaders or listen to reason.


This health care bill will produce astronomical new spending and increasing tax burdens, in addition to higher costs for insurance, rationed care, cuts in Medicare spending and more limited choices. 


Furthermore, I am disturbed that Congressman Nye voted to have taxpayers fund abortion in the health care bill.  The Stupak Amendment, sponsored by Democrat Rep. Bart Stupak of Michigan, successfully kept taxpayer-funded abortion out of the health care bill.  Unfortunately, Congressman Nye once again took his cue from Nancy Pelosi instead of his constituents.  While 64 Democrat members saw the error of the Speaker's decision, Congressman Nye was not one of them.  


We need leaders who will focus on creating jobs while maintaining fiscal responsibility. 


As a business owner, I have experience in creating hundreds of good jobs right here in Hampton Roads.  This type of conservative leadership is vital for restoring financial accountability in Washington, D.C. while getting our economy moving again."


11/06/2009 05:05PM : Republican Scott Rigell opposes Pelosi-Care

GOP challenger favors market-based approach to reform
Calls on Nye to vote against $1 trillion House healthcare bill

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA - With the U.S. House prepared to vote on Speaker Nancy Pelosi's healthcare takeover this week or next, Scott Rigell -Republican candidate in Virginia's Second Congressional District - made clear Friday that he's opposed to the trillion-dollar deficit-busting bill known as H.R. 3962. Instead, Rigell supports market-based ideas to lower healthcare costs for families in Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore.

An entrepreneur who knows the healthcare challenges facing small businesses firsthand, Rigell opposes Pelosi's 1,990-page bill because it will raise taxes on small businesses and families, increase premiums and put too much power in the hands of government.Rigell said healthcare needs to be reformed using a market-based approach: instituting medical malpractice reform, allowing small businesses to pool together to purchase health insurance for their employees ("Association Health Plans"), allowing health insurance to be sold across state lines and providing tax credits for individuals whose employers don't offer health insurance.

Scott Rigell issued the following statement Friday:

Americans agree that our healthcare system - while it provides the best care in the world - needs to lower costs for working families. I support common-sense, market-based measures to improve healthcare.

At a time when America's financial security is being threatened by runaway government spending and a sea of red ink, it is fiscal insanity for Washington politicians to be pushing a trillion-dollar healthcare takeover bill. This mammoth legislation will only grow more expensive and more cumbersome over time. It will lead to rationed care, limited choices and less freedom.

Pelosi-care is too much, too soon and too fast.

Washington must harness the free market to make health insurance more affordable, portable and accessible for Americans without tax increases, burdensome mandates on individuals and businesses, and a government-run healthcare plan.

Glenn Nye is considering voting for this bill, which speaks volumes about his loyalty to Nancy Pelosi. Several Blue Dog Democrats oppose this legislation, while Nye continues to stay silent as he waits for his cue.

Today, I urge Glenn Nye to finally do the right thing and immediately announce that he'll vote against this trillion-dollar government healthcare takeover.

10/27/2009 04:09PM : NRCC Lists Scott Rigell as "On the Radar."

After being among a handful of candidates nationwide to outraise an incumbent in total contributions, Scott Rigell is the only candidate in the 2nd District to achieve "On the Radar" status.



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – Scott Rigell continues to emerge as the clear frontrunner for the nomination in the 2nd Congressional District and received special recognition today from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC).   The NRCC announced a new round of ‘On The Radar’ candidates as part of its Young Guns recruitment program which is their official program dedicated to promoting and electing open-seat and challenger candidates throughout the nation.

To meet the NRCC criteria, Scott Rigell has had to demonstrate the ability to build a successful campaign structure and meet critical benchmarks to prove he is capable to defeat the incumbent.   One of those benchmarks is fundraising, and Rigell’s first quarter of fundraising further confirms that the Hampton Roads entrepreneur is one of the top GOP challengers in the nation.  With over 80% of his contributions coming from Hampton Roads, he out-raised the incumbent Glenn Nye from individual contributors, $227,000 to $211,000.  Only 5 of the 25 most vulnerable Democrat incumbents as rated by the Cook Political Report were out-raised in total contributions by a challenger, with Rigell posting the 3rd-highest total of non-personal money raised. 

“These candidates have become formidable contenders by meeting the rigorous goals laid out by the Young Guns program and putting in place the pieces for a winning campaign,” said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions.  “The early progress of these candidates is not only a testament to the Young Guns program, it is a sign of the changing environment that Democrats will have to face next year.  As these challengers continue to meet the benchmarks we have set for them, they are preparing themselves for tough campaigns to hold Democrats accountable for the big-government agenda they are inflicting on American families.”

“Make no mistake, this campaign is about Hampton Roads and Eastern Shore voters and not about Washington accolades,” said Campaign Manager Jason Miyares “However, every successful campaign must have a candidate who has the grassroots support, financial ability and a winning conservative message of low taxes, less regulation, traditional values and accountability in government that will resonate with voters.  Scott Rigell’s ground work has paid off and we are grateful that it is being recognized on a national level.” 


10/16/2009 02:01PM : Rigell Outraises Closest Rivals Nearly 5 to 1


Closest two rivals raised roughly $47,000 and $27,000, respectively from individual donors



GOP candidate’s debut fundraising quarter demonstrates


unmatched support from Hampton Roads voters



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – Republican candidate for Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, Scott Rigell was surprised and pleased that he far out raised his closest rivals for the Republican nomination by a margin of nearly 5 to 1:

“It is vital that any candidate for Congress be able to demonstrate that they have real, substantive support from the community in which they raise their family, run their business and are involved in the community.  I am proud that our campaign has so greatly resonated with actual voters in the Hampton Roads.”

With over 130 individual donations just from Hampton Roads residents, five times the number of individual donors of his closest rival, Scott Rigell has demonstrated the breadth and support from the grassroots needed to defeat the incumbent and win the nomination.

“Scott Rigell’s unmatched support from Hampton Roads voters solidifies his status as the clear frontrunner for the GOP nomination.  His two closest rivals, Ben Loyola and Ed Maulbeck, raised roughly $47,000 from 33 individual donors and $27,000 from 17 individual donors, respectively, which demonstrates that they do not have the foundation to defeat an incumbent member of Congress.

“Scott Rigell will be one of the few Republican challengers in the nation who has actually out-raised an incumbent Democratic Congressman. Fundraising numbers, this early in the race, are often an accurate barometer of who can harness enough support to defeat an incumbent.  Scott Rigell is the only Republican challenger in Hampton Roads who can say he outraised Glenn Nye with real donors rather than a simple campaign loan to artificially and temporarily inflate numbers,” stated Campaign Manager Jason Miyares.

10/16/2009 01:44PM : Scott Rigell Outraises Glenn Nye


$227,000+ from Individual Donors


$452,000+ in Total Receipts



GOP candidate’s debut fundraising quarter demonstrates


unmatched support from Hampton Roads voters



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – Local entrepreneur and former Marine Reservist Scott Rigell, Republican candidate for Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, announced today that he out-raised incumbent Democrat Rep. Glenn Nye in the 3rd fundraising quarter. Rigell will surely be one of the few candidates in the country who outraised an incumbent opponent.

Nye raised just under $214,000, while Rigell raised over $227,000, not including contributions or loans from the candidate. To demonstrate his commitment to the campaign, Rigell matched the financial support he received from donors with a nearly-equal personal investment, making for over $452,000 in total receipts.

Rigell released the following statement Thursday:

“I’m humbled by the breadth and depth of support I’ve received in my bid to represent Hampton Roads in Congress.  I’m proud to say that not a dime of the money raised was from PACs or Washington D.C. lobbyists but rather from hard-working Americans hungry for new leadership in Congress.

The amount of money you can raise from the voters you seek to represent is a measurement of how hard the candidate and their campaign is working and the breadth of support they have from within the community.  Our first fundraising number shows our supporters that we will not be out-worked and we are fully prepared to hold the Nancy Pelosi-led Congress accountable come Election Day.”

Over 193 individuals and families donated to the campaign. Rigell’s unmatched support from Hampton Roads voters solidifies his status as the clear frontrunner for the GOP nomination.

“Scott Rigell’s business background, common-sense conservative values and belief in holding Washington accountable for its irresponsible spending has created a surge of support for his candidacy,” remarked Jason Miyares, Campaign Manager for the Scott Rigell Campaign.  “We had over 164 individual donors donate to his candidacy, 81% of which came from Hampton Roads residents.   The majority of Scott’s money was raised from individual donors who believe in Scott’s message of creating jobs, keeping taxes and regulation low, and representing Hampton Roads working families with integrity in Congress.”

09/29/2009 03:18PM : Rigell Supports House Waiting Period Legislation

September 29, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Jason Miyares
Press Release (757)-679-5143 / jason@scottrigell.com

GOP Congressional Candidate Scott Rigell Supports Measure Requiring 72-hour Waiting Period for Any Legislation Prior to a House Vote

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – Scott Rigell, Republican candidate for Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, released the following statement Monday in support of Rep. Greg Walden’s bipartisan discharge petition in the U.S. House of Representatives calling for a vote on H. Res. 554, which would require the U.S. House to allow 72 hours to pass before a vote may be held on any bill:


“Few members of Congress – let alone Hampton Roads voters – had a chance to read the 1,000-plus page ‘stimulus’ bill that passed the House in January. It cost nearly a trillion dollars.


“Few members of Congress – let alone Hampton Roads voters – had a chance to read the 1,000-plus page ‘cap-and-trade’ bill that passed the House in June. It could cost families thousands of dollars per year.


“This is unacceptable. There’s simply too much taxpayer money at stake. Members of Congress and the people who elect them need an opportunity to thoroughly review what’s in these bills.


“Washington wonders why it’s held in ill-contempt – after talking with thousands of Hampton Roads voters over the last couple months, I can say for certain that this utter lack of common-sense is one reason.


“That’s why I applaud Congressman Walden for his efforts and call on Congressman Nye to immediately join him and 177 other members in signing this discharge petition.


“It’s a step in the right direction toward a more open, accountable government of the people, by the people and for the people.”


The “discharge petition” is a House rule which allows for consideration of a bill or resolution that is being blocked by House leadership.  Once signed by 218 members – a simple majority of the House – the bill automatically comes to the House floor for debate and a vote.


Discharge petition No. 0006 would discharge from the House Committee on Rules H. Res. 554, a resolution amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require that legislation and conference reports be available on the Internet for 72 hours before consideration by the House. H. Res. 554 was referred to the Rules committee on June 17, 2009, and has 110 co-sponsors.  Currently, there are 178 members who have signed the discharge petition and Rep. Nye is not one of them.


09/17/2009 03:23PM : Rigell Unveils Winning Team



VIRGINIA BEACH - Scott Rigell, 2nd District Congressional Candidate, unveiled his campaign team today.

“I am pleased to announce Jason Miyares has joined the campaign team as the Campaign Manager.”  Jason is a local attorney and graduate of James Madison University and William & Mary Law School.  He has held key leadership and strategy roles on the successful campaigns of George Allen for U.S. Senate, Senator Stephen H. Martin, and Delegate R. Lee Ware.  “I am delighted to have a campaign manager with a winning record and deep ties to the Hampton Roads community,” Rigell added.

“Scott’s record as a successful Hampton Roads businessman and community leader is a distinguishing advantage that will resonate with voters tired of partisan rhetoric and thirsty for leadership in Washington,” Miyares mentioned on Scott’s candidacy, “Scott has the real solutions and proven experience that will be tough for a do-nothing, say-anything incumbent to overcome.”

“Scott Rigell believes in common sense conservative principles and accountability in government that our nation so desperately needs.”

Rigell has also retained the political talents of Brad Todd and Curt Anderson of On Message Inc for media, Ward Baker of Majority Strategies for direct mail, and Patrick Lanne of Public Opinion Strategies for polling. “This top-notch team is unmatched by any opponent,” Rigell stated.

Ward Baker, a former U.S. Marine, served as the Campaign Director for the Virginia House Republican Caucus in 2005 and has led charge as 72-Hour Director for the Bush-Cheney Campaign in Florida.  He was also Political Director and 72-Hour Director for Haley Barbour’s successful 2003 gubernatorial campaign in Mississippi, and Campaign Manager for Blackburn for Congress (TN-07) in 2002.

Brad Todd is a writer by training and considered one of the GOP’s most innovative ad-makers.  His talent created the ads that generated buzz across the country for Michael Steele and is recognized for creating one of the “Top Three” Republican congressional ads in each of the 2000, 2002, and 2004 cycles.  Curt Anderson has been one of the country’s most prominent Republican campaign minds for over a decade. He was the Republican National Committee’s chief strategist under Chairman Haley Barbour and led the effort that developed the now-vaunted “72 Hour Task Force” after the 2000 election. On Message Inc also represents Virginia Congressmen Rob Wittman and Randy Forbes.

Patrick Lanne is a Partner with Public Opinion Strategies, called by the New York Times “the leading Republican polling company.”  POS polls for 16 U.S. Senators, eight Governors, and over 40 Members of Congress.  Lanne polled for the Republican Governors Association helping Mitch Daniels become the first challenger to beat an incumbent Governor in Indiana in over 100 years.  Lanne has helped Republicans gain majorities in four state legislative chambers since 2002.

Scott Rigell is a candidate for the Republican nomination in Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District.  He is a former U.S. Marine, successful businessman and founder of Freedom Ford, and lifelong principled conservative Republican.

07/08/2009 03:39PM : Rigell to Challenge Nye for Va. 2nd District

Lifelong Republican, businessman, community leader and former Marine reservist wins support from several GOP elected officials upon announcement


 



VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – GOP congressional candidate Scott Rigell released the following statement Wednesday:

“Today, I filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission establishing a campaign committee to run for Congress.

“I grew up in a middle-class family, served our country in the Marine Corps Reserves and grew a successful business. In Congress, I will leverage my background to fight every step of the way for working families, for our military men and women, and for the small businesses that form the backbone of our economy.

“I am running to leave our children with a brighter future. My father, who fought in the sands of Iwo Jima as a young Marine, taught me the meaning of duty – the obligation that one generation has to the next. Generational duty led me to enlist in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1978, just as my son Justus did twenty years later. That same spirit now compels me to run for public office.

“I will move quickly to organize a strong grassroots campaign behind which all Republicans can unite, and I am proud to have earned the support of several Hampton Roads Republican leaders. After working hard to elect my friend Bob McDonnell – and all Republicans up and down the 2009 ticket – I will make a more formal announcement in November.”

Scott has secured endorsements from the following Hampton Roads Republicans:

  • Former Congresswoman Thelma Drake

  • State Senator Frank Wagner

  • State Delegate Sal Iaquinto

  • State Delegate Bob Purkey

  • Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney Harvey Bryant

  • Virginia Beach City Council Member (At-Large) Ron Villanueva

  • Virginia Beach City Council Member (At-Large) Bill DeSteph

  • Dr. Robert Martinez, former Secretary of Transportation under Governor Allen


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Look Who Has Endorsed Scott...

John T. Atkinson
Virginia Beach City Treasurer
Michael Ball
Former Norfolk & Second District Chairman
Harvey Bryant
Commonwealth's Attorney
Tanya Bullock
Former VA Beach Republican Party Treasurer
Josh Canada
Chairman Hampton Roads Young Republicans
Martha Cisney
2nd District Representative for Virginia Federation of Women
Catherine Colgan
National Chair of the Leadership Committee-NRFW
Jack Colgan
Captain USN (Ret.)
John Cosgrove
Delegate
Colin Cowling
Northampton County Republican Party Chairman
Bill DeSteph
Virginia Beach City Council Member
Ken Dodl
Former VA Beach Republican Party Vice Chairman
The Honorable Thelma Drake
Former Congresswoman
Mike Farris
HSLDA Chairman & Chancellor of Patrick Henry College
David Hummel
Former Second District Chairman
Sal Iaquinto
Delegate
Robert "Bo" Lewis
Mayor, Town of Cheriton, Eastern Shore
The Honorable Dr. Rob Martinez
Former Virginia Secretary of Transportation
Gary Marx
Former Hampton Republican Party Chairman
Maureen McDonnell
Sister of Governor Bob McDonnell
Jeanine McDonnell
Daughter of Governor Bob McDonnell
Mark McKinney
Former VA Beach Republican Party Chairman
Jeff McWaters
State Senator, Former CEO, Amerigroup
Wiley Mitchell
Former Virginia State Senator
Billy Moore Jr.
Mayor, Town of Exmore, Eastern Shore
Glenn Oder
Delegate
David O'Kelly
2nd District State Central Committee Member
G. Conoly Phillips
Former Norfolk City Councilman
Brenda Pogge
Delegate
Bob Purkey
Delegate & Former VA. Beach Republican Party Chairman
Nick Rerras
Former Virginia State Senator
Jimmy Rogers
Chairman, Governor-elect McDonnell's Finance Committee
Chuck Smith
Former VA Beach Republican Party Chairman
Groce Steve
Newport News Republican Party Chairman
Ken Stolle
VA. Beach Sheriff & Former VA Beach Republican Party Chairman
Chris Stolle
Delegate
Laurence J. Trala
Member, Northampton County Board of Supervisors
Ron Villanueva
Delegate
Frank Wagner
Senator
Kit Webb
Former Suffolk Republican Party Chair
Jack White
Past Chair & current Vice-Chairman Northampton County Republican Party & former member of Northampton County Board of Supervisors
Eric Wray
Portsmouth Republican Party Executive Board Member
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