Binderim's Blog

Binderim Participates in Humble PTA Forum

2006-10-26T20:44:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: Stace Medellin, vote4gary@gmail.com, 832-868-9931

BINDERIM PARTICIPATES in HUMBLE PTA FORUM

Poe a No-Show--Again!

Gary Binderim, the Democrat running to defeat Ted Poe in District 2, found a welcoming group of voters at the Humble PTA Candidate Forum held in Kingwood. Ted Poe was a no-show.

Binderim spoke on various positions he has taken on issues, such as public education and "No Child," Social Security and Teachers, the War in Iraq, the economy, and immigration. Binderim also had the opportunity to differentiate between his positions and those of Poe, as well as differentiating between Poe's positions and his actual voting record.

"In Kingwood I have found voters of various political stripes that are seeking an alternative to politics as usual, and especially an alternative to Ted Poe," said Binderim. "Every voter I have visited with, I have been honest and open about my positions, and I believe that I am gaining support in what has been considered Republican territory because of that."

Among Gary's personal highlights were being approached by several voters with "Ted Poe" lapel stickers who told him he had their votes. Another was being told by a Republican voter that he appreciated Binderim's honest, sensible, and comprehensive approach to immigration reform.

"At one point, I would have thought that immigration was going to be the only issue of interest because that's all Ted Poe campaigned on," said Binderim, "but I can honestly say that Poe's approach, along with Poe's avoidance of the issues that matter to the vast majority of voters, is wearing thin with voters in this part of District 2."

District 2 is considered a suburban, middle-class Congressional district; however, Poe's voting record on Bush's tax cuts, as well as his support for tax giveaways to Paris Hilton-like estates has caught the attention of many middle class voters. Only 2.5% of District 2 households make more than $200,000 per year--these are the households that receive the majority of Bush's tax giveaways.

"When working and middle class people were overtaxed with high gas costs, a higher cost of living, a 40% increase in tuition in the last 3 years, and a higher cost of health care--even after tort reform, they began to really look at the Republican voting record," said Binderim. "Along with increased mistrust with the Republican adminstration over the Iraq war, voters began to think that the Republican Party they had so long supported was not the same one today, and voters are seeking change."

Binderim's campaign has been a "people-powered" campaign consisiting of volunteers from throughout the District. Meanwhile, Poe has raised around one million dollars, with more than half of the money coming from corporate and special interest PACs and wealthy CEOs.

"I'm proud of every dollar we have raised from regular, hard-working individuals," said Binderim, adding, "and every volunteer who has either put up a sign in their yard, passed out literature, blockwalked, or sent an e-mail on my behalf has only increase the value of what I have raised. While I won't forget the people that would put me in office, it is Ted Poe that will be too busy paying back favors to the special interests that funded him."

Early voting is happening now, with Saturday being a big day--the first full-day (7AM to 7PM). Voters in the Kingwood/Humble/Atascocita/Huffman area are invited to join the Kingwood Area Democrats at the Kingwood Fire Station polling location (4121 West Lake Houston Pkwy.) as they will vote en masse on Saturday morning at 8AM. Afterwards, they will head out to Skeeter's Mesquite Grill across the street for a dutch-treat breakfast buffet to Celebrate Democracy!

Gary plans to head out to Jefferson County afterwards to visit voters at various polling locations.

"Security" Gone Too Far

2006-10-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

I received this letter from a woman in Illinois who experienced the new attitudes and procedures that are being put in place as the Republican majority continues to sling rhetoric and venom regarding their anti-immigrant stances. In the process, these attitudes are dividing families--REAL PEOPLE. It is these types of situations that embolden my commitment to sensible immigration reform and National Security achieved through real intelligence, rather than judgments based on little to no information. We must be proactive--it is the responsible, meaningful way of achieving reform and security.

Dear Mr. Binderim:

I am writing to you not with the desire for you to feel you have to respond but rather to let you know what it is like to be married into a family that was recently separated due to the immigration issues we have here in the United States. I am attaching a letter that I emailed to all of the Senators possible in the state of Illinois within the districts that I am allowed to write.

The letter that I have enclosed explains what happened to my family on October 15, 2006. In short my in-laws arrived at O’Hare International airport at 7:11pm, some 6 hours later after being verbally abused by Immigration Officers at the airport – Immigration decided it was in the best interest of the United States that these 2 very innocent people, be returned to Mexico because the feared that they would over stay their welcome. The only reason they were coming to the United States was to take a family vacation with my family to celebrate my parents 40th wedding anniversary. We were all to go to Arizona.

Now with much disappointment, everyday I have to explain to my 5 year old daughter that I am working as hard as I can to get her grandparents back here. From what I have been informed by our attorney it looks like the only way to fight any of this is to make my in-laws legal US residents so this way my kids can see them in about a year instead of 5 – you would think that they were horrible criminals that tried to do something unbelievable to the US with the way that they were treated.

And its all legal – who would have thought that Americans could be so horrible to 2 innocent people trying to visit their son and also to their son who was patiently waiting for them at the airport. And the reality of this whole disaster – if I had been at the airport with them – this would have never happened because I am as white as you can get - that just proves how raciest our country has become. The immigration officers would have taken one look at me and said okay – but because my husband was there and I was at home – they were just as rude to him.

And according to Dennis Hastert’s office, because my husband just became a citizen in July – that is probably what set the whole thing in motion – so much for being a US citizen this day in age – it doesn’t do anything for anyone. I know Mr. Hastert’s office isn’t really the best place to start seeing how he is opposed to immigrants in the first place, but they were the first that have responded to my email from last Thursday. I should have known that they would have been rude to me as well, since one less Mexican in the country would make them happier.

I appreciate your time and apologize for going on. I read on your website your views about immigrants and thought you might be interested in what really does happen in the United States to innocent people. Thanks again and have a wonderful day.

Kim Velasquez
Chicago, IL

Here's the letter she sent to elected officials.

October 19, 2006

To the Illinois State Representatives:

It is with great sadness and disappointment in United States Government that I feel the need to write to each of you about a very unfortunate incident that happened to my family on Sunday, October 15, 2006.

For being a white Caucasian born and raised in the state of Illinois, it is very hard to explain to my now citizen husband, who was originally born and raised in Mexico that his parents CAN be removed from O’Hare International Airport for no reason.

My in-laws tried to arrive on Sunday, October 15, 2006 at 7:11pm. By 9:30pm it was apparent that there were some issues going through customs/immigration, but we had no understanding as to what the problem really was. By 1:30am my husband was on his way home from the airport and his parents were going to be put on a plane back to Mexico at 2:00am. Still without real explanation we had no clue why this has happened. After 7 years of them coming back and forth from Mexico into O’Hare for about 6 months at a time each time, without any problems, nothing made sense. Besides the fact they were issued brand new VISAS and PASSPORTS on 4/17/06.

The Immigration Officers tried to force them into signing documentation that was untruthful, they verbally harassed my in-laws, and only to find out yesterday through a lawyer – that in the UNITED STATES – this is actually legal. WOW! I had no idea that I was born and raised into a country that is so evil, and would allow Officers to have some much authority that they can verbally abuse and scare people and its okay – especially when they are completely innocent people, have never done anything wrong in their own country let alone ours. And yet the people that would rather blow-up planes/buildings can just keep coming into the country. WOW! That’s all I can really say.

The United States has given this grand power to the WRONG people. They get to just choose for example: Okay you are the 539 person to come through today and we have only sent 13 people back to their countries – we really need to have 15 people for the day sent back to the countries of origin – guess it is your lucky day to be abused by the UNITED STATES!. That makes me sick!

My in-laws are wonderful people, with no record of any kind, and all they wanted to do was come and see their grandchildren and take a vacation with us and my family to Arizona the week of Thanksgiving to celebrate my parent’s 40th wedding anniversary.

And now thanks to each of you and the rest of Congress/Government/The United States – my innocent 5 year old and 2 year old – have to suffer without their grandparents on the first vacation for all of us together – because of this ultimate power that you have given the Immigration Officers at the airports – THANK YOU, THANK YOU very much for breaking 2 little girls hearts over NOTHING! Makes me so proud to be an American! And now knowing that there is nothing, no appealing, nothing that can be done by one huge STUPID mistake of 2 Immigration Officers. THANKS! I hope each of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with each of your families ~ knowing my little girls are suffering from not seeing their grandparents.

Sincerely,

Kim Velazquez

Binderim Participates in Dayton Forum

2006-10-17T21:48:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: Stace Medellin, 832-868-9931, Vote4Gary@gmail.com

GARY BINDERIM PARTICIPATES IN DAYTON FORUM; POE A NO-SHOW

Gary Binderim, the Democrat challenging one-termer Ted Poe in Congressional District 2, participated in the Dayton News Candidate Forum at Woodrow Wilson Junior High School on Tuesday, October 17. Around 100 Dayton voters attended and asked questions of eleven candidates running in Liberty County. Poe was a no-show.

"I'm not surprised Ted Poe was a no-show; he's been a no-show when it comes to the people of Liberty and Jefferson County," said Binderim. "His dismal Congressional voting record is proof that he holds the hard-working people of Liberty County in low regard, so Poe avoiding defending his record in Congress is not surprising. It is time for all of District 2 to be represented, and I'm the candidate that is committed to representing the good people of Liberty County and all of District 2."

Binderim was given the opportunity to introduce himself and lay-out his vision for District 2. After his presentation, he spent the rest of the evening listening to the concerns of the people of Liberty County as they asked questions of the other participants. "The people of Liberty County are savvy voters," said Binderim, "They care about the issues and it is time for someone in Congress to listen to their viewpoints."

"Ted Poe has been given every opportunity, whether at forums or at his own fundraisers, to speak about his Congressional record, but his record is indefensible," said Binderim. "Ted Poe has only represented those wealthy and special interests that have written him those big checks, and the people, even some of his past supporters, are disappointed at his one-term in the Congress."

Gary Binderim is running a "people-powered" campaign that has netted him around $15,000 in contributions, while utilizing various groups of community leaders in Beaumont, Kingwood, Baytown, Spring, and the Willowbrook area to spread his message. On the other hand, Ted Poe has collected almost $900,000 in special interest contributions, including around $100,000 from Big Oil and Energy PACs and tens of thousands of dollars more from pharmaceutical and medical special interests whose interests do not include the people of District 2.

"I am offering a clear alternative to politics as usual, and Ted Poe continues his work at dividing America, failing to provide solutions to the challenges we face," said Binderim. "If Ted Poe paid more attention to the people, instead of to those that fund him, perhaps he'd have a leg to stand on, but he has been a failure in only two years."

Binderim will be showing his support for Democratic candidate for Attorney General David Van Os at the Harris County Courthouse on Wednesday, October 18 at 4PM. Binderim participated in David Van Os' Whistlestop Tour of Liberty and Jefferson County this past summer.

Poe Compares Foley to Clinton Affair

2006-10-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—October 11, 2006
Contact:
Stace Medellin, 832-868-9931, vote4gary@gmail.com

POE COMPARES FOLEY’S BEHAVIOR TO FORMER PRESIDENT

KINGWOOD—District 2 member of Congress Ted Poe compared former Florida Congressman Mark Foley’s behavior to the extramarital affair of former President Clinton.

States Poe on his campaign website, “Unfortunately he is not the first representative to behave appallingly inappropriate, there [has] been…a Democratic President also.”

His challenger, Democrat Gary Binderim responded, “Poe will do anything to protect his Republican leaders, but it is quite appalling to hear him go so far as to compare a personal adult mistake to a possibly criminal act by Republican Foley.”

Binderim continued, “I thought Poe of all people knew that marital missteps could be forgiven by one’s family, community, and even their church, but to utilize such a comment for political gain shows that he only wants to protect his leader, Dennis Hastert.” (see related article linked below).

Binderim stated that Dennis Hastert had hosted a fundraiser for one-term incumbent Poe. Hastert is expected to return on October 31 for another high-dollar fundraiser for Poe.

“While other Republicans around the country are distancing themselves from Hastert, including Houston’s Shelley Sekula-Gibbs, Ted Poe is exhibiting a kind of political arrogance that is not representative of the people of District 2.”

Binderim continued, “This election really is about the values the people of District 2 hold highest, and it takes more than just talking about values, it takes acting on those values. I’m the candidate that will fight for those values.”

Gary Binderim is a first-time candidate and has been traveling District 2, talking to voters about the issues that matter most to them: Social Security, Jobs Security, Post-Rita, Disaster Relief, and Health Care. For more information, visit: www.GaryBinderim.com.

Related article: http://www.houstonpress.net/Issues/2004-01-22/news/insider.html

A Former Staunch Republican on Ted Poe

2006-09-24T10:42:00.000-07:00

by Clement White, Kingwood, TX

As a former staunch Republican who feels his party has left him, I would like to bring to your attention just a few of the facts concerning the voting record of our current congressman, Ted Poe.

I. Poe voted against stem cell research and to sustain the President's veto over the overwhelming wishes of the majority of the country and the congress. This legislation would have funded research on excess embryos from fertilization clinics that will be discarded and destroyed in any case. More than 100 million Americans suffer from cancer, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, diabetes, spinal cord injuries and other debilitating diseases. The overwhelming consensus of the medical/scientific community is that stem cell legislation is vital. Even Bill Frist, the Republican Majority leader and a doctor, voted in favor of this bill.

II. In a speech on the “Liberation of Iraq” in March of this year Poe lauded the fighting men and women that are over there --- who doesn't? However, he goes on to say that he believes that we are winning!!

Many observers (including U.S. troops quoted in a August 6, 2006 Houston Chronicle article) believe that this conflict has degenerated into a low to medium grade civil war between the Sunni and the Shiite. Which side does Poe back in this conflict? How much American blood and treasure is he committed to spill in an open-ended commitment to insure the triumph for the ultimate brand of Muslim victor?

As matters now stand, we have an elected Iraqi government dominated by the Shiites that many think will ultimately be dominated by (Shiite) Iran. A very recent congressional report says financial corruption is out of control in Iraq. Poe says: “some things are just worth fighting for, and freedom is one of those things.” How many American lives is this brand of Iraqi freedom worth?

Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11, it was not a terrorist breeding ground before 9/11, but due to the ineffectual prosecution of the war many observers believe that it has been converted to one. Through all of this Poe delivers happy talk and calls for more of the same Bush policies.

American public opinion has turned against this war. Yet in a speech in the House Poe has the nerve to equate critics of the Bush failed policiesas being equivalent to the person accused of being the American traitor, Tokyo Rose, of World War II.

III. Poe voted for every tax cut (which predominantly benefited the extremely wealthy) and every spending bill presented to congress. As a result, the deficit is out of control and the national debt is approaching 9 trillion dollars (our Gross National Product is only about 12-13 trillion).

In a July 11, 2006 speech, the Comptroller of the United States claims that we are faced with a budget deficit, savings deficit, balance of payments deficit and a leadership deficit. He compares our current reaction to the modest declines in our budget forecast deficit to a beach party while a tsunami is building on the horizon. He says: “Too many people are saying, “party on” rather than heading for higher ground.”

Even conservative Republicans such as George Will are appalled at the financial mess this administration has brought us to.As a person who votes for tax cut for the very rich, benefits for the special interests, and unfettered spending, Poe is part of the problem.

IV. Are you enjoying the high cost of gasoline while Exxon makes $10 billion in one quarter? Ted Poe voted for Energy Policy Act of 2005 that was signed into law that provided $28 billion of tax breaks to the oil, coal, gas, nuclear, and electrical industries. Furthermore, he has delivered speech after speech extolling the virtues of drilling. No informed observer believes that a domestic drilling program can solve our oil importation problems.

Conservation, higher mileage standards, serious consideration of non- fossil fuels, you will not hear speeches on these issues from Ted Poe. I guess these issues do not have the lobbyists to compete with the oil money that bankrolls Ted Poe. In the meantime, our dependence on Mideast oil increases and we ship more petrodollars to governments that bankroll terrorist organizations. In addition, of course, total dependence on oil only exacerbates the global warming problem.

V. In the last week of July, 2006, the House voted 279-131 to pass a bill that would shore up defined-benefited pension plans by requiring some 30,000 companies to fully fund their pension liabilities over seven years. POE VOTED AGAINST THIS BILL!

VI. Remember poor Terry Schiavo? She was the lady in Florida that had been conclusively determined to be brain dead and was kept artificially “alive” over the objections of her guardian husband. The American Public was 70% against congressional intervention in such a private family matter. Nevertheless, when Tom DeLay mobilized Congress to intervene in this case, Ted Poe voted to send this case to the Supreme Court. You may recall the final outcome: the Supreme Court refused to intervene and when Mrs. Schiavo passed away her autopsy confirmed her hopeless condition.

VII. Poe voted against a ban on cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment of detainees held by U.S. forces and to require the military to follow its own field manual for interrogations. Fortunately, due to the efforts of John McCain legislation prohibiting torture of prisoners was signed by the President.

VIII. If you like Tom DeLay and Dick Cheney, you should love Ted Poe. Poe voted with Tom DeLay 92% of the time and accepted money from Tom DeLay's PAC. Poe even contributed $5,000 from his own campaign funds to the Tom DeLay Legal Defense Fund. Cheney campaigned for Poe in the last election.

IX. In a vote that passed the House by two votes and the Senate by a tie breaking vote by the Vice President, Poe voted with the majority to cut the student loan program and to increase payments and co-pays for Medicaid recipients and at the same time allowed states to offer scaled-back Medicaid programs with fewer benefits.

X. In June of this year, after the several mine disasters that have occurred, Poe voted against the Mine Improvement and New Emergency and Response Act. This is curious because this bill received support from both the GOP and the Democrats.

IN SUMMARY, RECENT POLLS INDICATE THAT EVEN IN REPUBLICIAN DISTRICTS A SOLID MAJORITY OF VOTERS BELIEVE THE TIME HAS COME TO GIVE A NEWCOMER A CHANCE. HASN'T THAT TIME COME WHEN YOU VOTE IN NOVEMBER IN THE TEXAS 2nd CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT?

For more information on the newcomer, Gary Binderim, visit www.GaryBinderim.com.

Binderim Spends 9/10 at Westlake VFD Flag Retirement

2006-09-10T19:37:00.000-07:00

Gary Binderim w/ Pastor Ray Sullins

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Stace Medellin, 832-868-9931, Vote4Gary@gmail.com

DAYTON--Gary Binderim, Democratic candidate for the 2nd Congressional District of Texas spent Sunday, September 10 at the Westlake Volunteer Fire Department's Flag Retirement, Commemoration Ceremony and Blood Drive. Also in attendance was Liberty County Treasurer Linda Leonard, Commissioner Norman Brown of Pct. 4, as well as other candidates for office.

After the singing of the National Anthem and a moving invocation by Pastor Ray Sullins of the Midway Baptist Church, a Dayton-area troup of Boy Scouts ceremoniously retired a U.S. flag flying at the Fire Department. The process entailed cutting the flag, stripe by stripe, then placing each strip in a container of hot coals. The Scouts would continue retiring various flags flown over the Fire Department afterwards. Prior to Pastor Sullins' benediction, two crates of doves were released to signify freedom and peace.

Over 30 guests enjoyed community conversation, various snacks and desserts, and various fire safety and disaster preparedness pamphlets provided by the Westlake VFD.

Congressional candidate Gary Binderim enjoyed speaking individually to various voters who were receptive to his campaign platform that includes protecting Social Security, ensuring quality assets for First Responders, and increasing the minimum wage to a livable wage so minimum wage workers can work without being left in poverty.

Earlier in the day, Binderim spent some time at the St. Joseph's Catholic Church Festival at St. Anne's Parish Hall. He enjoyed meeting briefly with Liberty County Clerk Delia Sellers, whom he had met earlier this year at a Campaign Rally held at the County Courthouse.

For more information on the Gary Binderim campaign for Congress, please visit: www.GaryBinderim.com.

Binderim Blasts Bush, Congress for Failing our Police

2006-09-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: Stace Medellin, 832-868-9931, Vote4Gary@gmail.com

BINDERIM BLASTS BUSH, CONGRESS FOR FAILING OUR POLICE
Ted Poe has yet to support real crime-fighting measures

Gary Binderim, candidate for the 2^nd Congressional District of Texas, blasted Attorney General Al Gonzales and the Bush administration for recent comments in an Associated Press report against federal assistance to add new police officers to local law enforcement agencies.

“Throughout District 2, crime rates have increased at the same time that our need for police officers has increased,” said Binderim, “It is time for another Clinton-era commitment to put 100,000 new police officers on the beat around the country, especially in our urban areas.”

Gonzales was responding to several mayors and police chiefs who expressed concern at a crime conference that the Bush administration was spending too much money on wars abroad, while ignoring an increase in street crime at home.

Citing the Bush administration’s expenses in the war on terrorism, Binderim added, “If our urban areas, especially those with seaports and high levels of commerce, are possible targets for terrorism, then one would figure that Ted Poe and the Bush administration would be spending our tax dollars on our local police agencies, instead of wasting it on no-bid contracts abroad.”

According to the AP report which cited the Bush administration and AG Gonzales’ position on funding local police, some criminal justice experts have said the statistics reflect complacency in fighting crime.

Said Binderim, “In Harris and Jefferson Counties we have seen an increase in crime, and the lack of commitment to putting more police officers on the beat shown by the Bush administration and the Republican Congress is the reason.”

For more information on Gary Binderim, please visit www.GaryBinderim.com.

Poe Cares Little for Middle Class, Why Should He Care About Horses?

2006-09-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: Stace Medellin, 832-868-9931

Poe Cares Little for Middle Class, Why Should He Care About Horses?
Poe votes against banning horse slaughter

Ted Poe continued his single issue campaign this week, avoiding his dismal, one-term Congressional record. Poe voted against banning the slaughter of horses this week, stating he wasn't concerned about "horse security."

"Ted Poe isn't concerned about any kind of security, especially the economic security of the families of District 2," said Gary Binderim, the Democratic candidate in Congressional District 2. "Ted Poe has compiled a Congressional record that he refuses to discuss and campaign on. I'm not surprised he's out slaughtering horses since he's already slaughtered Working and Middle Class families."

Binderim was referring to a Congressional record that includes votes against working and middle class families:

* Poe voted to hold a two dollar increase in the Minimum Wage hostage, while he pushed for a $268 billion estate tax giveaway to America's wealthiest families--few, if any, reside in District 2.

* Poe voted to continue another giveaway of working and middle class tax payments to those same families that do not reside in District 2.

* Poe voted to protect price gouging oil companies--the same companies that have given him close to $75,000 in contributions.

Asked Binderim, "Who is Ted Poe working for? District 2 needs a representative that has all families in Harris, Jefferson, and Liberty counties in mind. After one-term, Ted Poe has shown us who he is working for, and it is not the families that matter--those in District 2."

Gary Binderim is a first-time candidate who continues to work his full-time job, while running a grassroots campaign throughout the District. He entered the race on January 2--the filing deadline--to ensure Ted Poe would answer for his dismal Congressional voting record.

"First of all, no incumbent with a bad Congressional voting record should ever go unopposed," said Binderim. "I run as a candidate that will answer to the people, not Big Money contributors. It is time for all of the people of District 2 to be represented by someone that they can identify with and that will fight for them everyday in Washington, DC."

For more information on the Binderim's campaign, visit: http://www.garybinderim.com/.

Gary's First Political Web-Ad

2006-08-21T00:07:00.000-07:00

POE HOLDS WORKING PEOPLE HOSTAGE

2006-07-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—July 31, 2006

Contact:
Stace Medellin, 832-868-9931, vote4gary@gmail.com

POE CHOOSES TO HOLD WORKING PEOPLE HOSTAGE

KINGWOOD--U.S. Rep. Ted Poe of the 2nd Congressional District of Texas chose to hold the futures of working people hostage by voting for a provision which would hand over $268 billion dollars from the federal budget to wealthy special interests. The provision was added on to a House bill designed to increase the minimum wage by two dollars over the next three years; however, the tax cut for the wealthy would be stretched out for the next decade at billions of dollars per year.

“The estate tax ensures that the wealthy pay their fair share, while somewhat alleviating the burden on working and middle class families,” said Gary Binderim, the Democrat running to defeat Ted Poe. “All Ted Poe is doing is protecting the interests of a few wealthy families outside of his Congressional district on the backs of the working people living his own Congressional district.”

Binderim asks how Ted Poe and the Republicans can compare a $268 billion raid of the federal budget to a $2 increase in the minimum wage. “How can Ted Poe extort $268 million from working and middle class families who are already burdened with a $9 trillion debt and a $300 million deficit, on top of $3 per gallon gasoline, double-digit college tuition increases, and a rising cost of living?” asked Binderim.

Binderim feels it is time that the federal government mandate that businesses pay a truly livable wage. “A job is supposed to keep you out of poverty, and this wage increase is hardly getting us there, said Binderim. According to the 2000 census, at $5.15 per hour, almost 15% of workers in Beaumont earn the minimum wage and almost 23% earn less than the proposed $7.25 per hour (or $15,080 per year). “It is time to put the working and middle class families of District 2 at the top of Congress’ priority list. added Binderim.

“It is about time that Ted Poe answered some serious questions about his lack of representation of the vast majority of people in District 2,” said Binderim. “When over 53% of households in District 2 make less than $50,000 per year and only 2.9% of households make over $200,000 annually, just who is Ted Poe representing? It is time for a change and I will be the voice for change.”
Gary Binderim is campaigning on a vow to change the course of the federal government; beginning with a change in priorities in which the people of District 2 would come first—not wealthy special interests from outside of the district.

For more information, visit www.GaryBinderim.com.

###

Binderim Keeps Rollin' On...

2006-07-19T15:02:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release
July 19, 2006
Contact: Stace Medellin, 832-868-9931, vote4gary@gmail.com

Gary's Grassroots Campaign Rolls On

Gary Binderim, the Democrat running to beat Ted Poe in Congressional District 2, reports cash on hand of $1,056.18. Along with a loan to himself (mostly to cover the filing fee), Binderim raised over $8600 in personal contributions from regular, hard-working people from around District 2. Binderim's report is located here; however, will be amended within the next 14 days to correct a few minor clerical errors.

After submitting his first quarterly report of the campaign, Binderim has already seen a quick uptick in fundraising with several contributions sent and arriving after the deadline. A major fundraising event is in the works, which will take place in Kingwood in August (details soon!). Along with a more concentrated effort on fundraising during this second half of the campaign, while continuing to meet voters face-to-face, as he has been doing since signing up for the race on January 2, the Binderim campaign expects to raise enough to ensure a major signage presence, as well as a direct mail and phone banking effort before the election. This is indeed a grassroots campaign and Binderim is committed to reaching as many voters as possible, personally and through other efforts.

"While fundraising hasn't taken a backseat in this campaign, Gary has concentrated on meeting the most important people in District 2--the activists and Democratic leaders that continue to help him spread the word and get out the vote for his campaign," said campaign manager Stace Medellin. "And whether it's been large community events or face-to-face meetings with individual voters, the response to Mr. Binderim has been tremendous, including an amazing response from spectators at the Kingwood Independence Day Parade where he was introduced to literally thousands of voters." And it helped that while his opponent rode in a fancy convertible, Binderim walked the entire route shaking hands and talking to the people. Binderim served as Kingwood's water services manager, so he is readily recognized by many Kingwood originals for his service and his professionalism during his stint as the services manager.

As one-term Republican incumbent Ted Poe will boast cash on hand of $224,215.96, one thing is evident--Poe has concentrated his efforts on raising and spending money the whole time he's been in office, while amassing a partisan Congressional record that shows his indifference toward the people. Since April, he raised over $111,000 from special interest PACs and wealthy attorneys and corporate-types. Since April, Poe also spent over $95,000, including several large payments to fundraising and political consultants. Obviously, he's not taking this grassroots challenge lightly, and he'll sell every favor possible get re-elected.

"While Poe stays busy showing off his price tag and running on his one divisive issue, Gary Binderim has been talking about the issues that matter: Strengthening Social Security; increasing disaster relief and recovery within the district for the present and the future; increasing access to affordable health care for children,the elderly, and the disabled; reforming our public education system to strengthen our future workforce; and tax reform that benefits hard-working people, instead of making the rich richer," said Medellin. "This campaign is about the issues that matter to the people, and not what matters to Poe."

As Binderim states, "My only special interests are the hard-working people of District 2. This campaign is about re-establishing our national and local priorities and as the cost of living increases for all of us, as our current Republican administration pushes working and middle class families further into debt, and as Poe and the Republican Congress continually shows their indifference toward most working people, I've made it my job as a candidate to remind all voters that it can be and it will be better if they give me and the slate of Democratic candidates on our ballot their support."

Binderim is proud to have appeared at events with stellar candidates, such as Chad Khan (running in HD126), Dot Nelson-Turnier (HD150), and Diane Trautman (HD127) locally, and with statewide candidate David Van Os on a portion of David's Whistlestop Tour.

To contribute to the campaign to defeat Ted Poe, go to Gary's ActBlue.

Binderim Covered by Cleveland Advocate

2006-06-30T21:13:00.000-07:00

Candidate speak on steps

By: Roycelyn Bastian

06/27/2006

Standing on the county courthouse steps, David Van Os, Democratic candidate for Texas Attorney General and Gary Binderim, Democratic candidate for Congressional District 2, spoke to the citizens of Liberty County on why they are running and what they will accomplish once they are voted into office.

"I have a message for the oil and insurance companies and the political power grabbers. They better spend every penny they have to defeat me in my quest to run for Texas Attorney General, because once I am sworn into office in January, I am coming after them," said Van Os.

Van Os decided to make it his personal mission to try and change the way things are being done on the state and federal level.

"I decided to run for attorney general because I am fed up with how my state and country are being run. I felt that I was personally responsible to do everything in my power to make it happen," he said.

This is not Van Os's first time running for office. He ran for the Texas Supreme Court in 1998 and 2004.

"Between now and November, I will be speaking on my platform at the county courthouses in all of 254 counties in the state. So far, I have spoke at over 60 counties since March," he said.

Van Os is originally from Kilgore, but now lives in San Antonio. He is married to his wife Rachael, and together they have four children.

"Once I am elected, I am going to take legal action against the oil companies over the high gas prices; insurance companies over high insurance premiums and other monopolist practices."

For more information on Van Os, visit www.vanosfortexasag.com.

Binderim spoke on the courthouse steps about those who were affected by the hurricanes have not been taken care of.

"My only special interest as your congressman will be to listen to you on what you want not from the corporate lobbyists. There are so many people who have sustained damages from hurricanes Rita and Katrina and they are still not being helped by the federal government," said Binderim.

This candidate has worked hard as a community activist, serving as a precinct chair and activist, deputy voter registrar, and as a volunteer for various campaigns for office. Now, he wants to represent the people of District 2 in Congress; providing effective representation and fighting for the hard-working people that makes District 2.

For more information on Binderim, visit www.GaryBinderim.com. ©Houston Community Newspapers Online 2006

Binderim Joins Van Os on Whistlestop Tour

2006-06-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

Talk about a full-day!

Gary Binderim, the Democrat taking on Ted Poe in CD-02, joined the David Van Os Whistlestop Tour on Tuesday, June 20. Both candidates spoke to supporters and voters at the Liberty and Jefferson County Courthouses. The following is a diary of the day:

The first stop was at the Liberty County Courthouse in Liberty. As soon as we got there, we ran into PDiddie himself, Perry Dorrell, who was working the Van Os campaign. There, we met with David, as well as several Democratic lawyers and elected officials. We were more than welcomed by Liberty County Clerk Delia Sellers, as well as Liberty County Democratic Chair Nancy Archer, along with a great group of Democrats. Van Os spoke first, taking on the special interests that currently own Texas and national politics. Then he introduced Binderim who complimented DVO's speech by hitting on disaster relief and the boondoggle that is the insurance industry, which has left many Rita survivors high and not-so-dry after not covering much of the damage.

Both were well-received and both took the time for some one-to-one with voters. With members of the media in attendance (The Cleveland Advocate and the Dayton News), both answered their questions, as well as those from voters. After spending a little bit of time at the County Clerk's office, we took off to the next town--Beaumont. David Van Os headed out to a radio interview before taking off to Hardin County, his next stop.

When Binderim arrived at the County Courthouse, the Progressive Democrats were there with signs, stickers, and more in support of DVO. As always, they welcomed Binderim with open arms and Gary was able to do some visiting while we all waited for David to arrive from his trip. After the Progressive Dems rolled out their "Celebrate Democracy" banner, David gave a slightly longer, just as firey and motivating, stump speech, smacking big oil and the "robber barons" that have a hold on our Democracy. Binderim then took the stage, and once again complimented DVO's speech--they're both coming after the mouthpieces of the special interests--Greg Abbott and Ted Poe! David took off to another radio interview and Gary received a major treat.

After spending a lot of time talking to some of Gary's supporters outside of the courthouse, he was given a short tour of the courthouse, and the guide took him up to the 7th floor--the County Auditor's office, to catch a view of the the Port of Beaumont. The port is home to the military's transportation depot--lots of military equipment leaves from here to all points, especially Iraq. A very nice view; although, the thought that all that equipment was probably bound for Iraq, or any other war the Republicans are aiming for, made the view a bit surreal.

The dinner with the Progressive Democrats at Acapulco grill was great, starting with the pre-meeting visiting. There, we met this young guy, a hard-working waiter. He struck up a conversation with us after seeing all of our buttons. We found out that not only had he been born in Mexico, but he had gone through the citizenship process, became a citizen, registered to vote, and is a DEMOCRAT! The negative tones of the immigration debate--which seems to be Ted Poe's sole issue, have energized this young man, and he was excited to meet Gary. Gary took a photo with him for posterity and I'm pretty sure he got his vote too (and hopefully a volunteer!).

A good crowd of Progressive Democrats welcomed us to the meeting. After orders were taken and delivered, Gary took the floor and gave another good presentation, which provided a segue into DVO's presentation. This time, DVO took his time and gave a very good talk. He advised those in attendance to not look at the people who did not vote as "non-voters" but as voters abstaining. We must take our campaigns to them, we must include them because they want to hear from us. And we must speak to all voters--Democrats, Independents and Republicans that are fed up with special interests-as-usual. The people deserve representation and Van Os and Binderim will fight for the people.

Afterwards, Binderim spent the evening doing some one-to-one visits, passed out lots of stickers to people who will actually put them on their cars, and made lots of important contacts. This Progressive Democrats group from Beaumont means business and they are at the forefront of organizing the County toward victory in 2006 and beyond.

A special thanks to John and Suzanne Stafford for organizing the Beaumont aspect of the trip, and to David and Rachel Van Os for being great Democrats.

Post-Script: On the way home, right outside of Dayton, TX on 1960, the car began to feel funny--a tire had gone flat. Well, Gary proved to be the NASCAR candidate in this race when he changed the tire with Pit Stop speed! It was too dark for a photo op, but we got back on the road within minutes! All in a days' work--for the people!

Binderim Campaign Update

2006-06-05T16:13:00.000-07:00

Gary Binderim

Democrat for Congress
Campaign Update

Campaign Support Continues to Grow
Gary has been traveling the district and continues to gain new supporters. Since the last update, he has visited with the National Letter Carriers Asssociation in Port Arthur, he visited the home of a Beaumont survivor of Hurricane Rita whose home was demolished by a falling tree, yet was still found to be livable by FEMA, several Democratic and progressive organizations, and he has been trekking through the western part of the district picking up support.

Among the greatest assets of this campaign are the campaigns of fellow Democrats in the area, particularly those of Chad Khan for Texas House District 126 and Dot Nelson-Turnier for Texas House District 150. These campaigns will be integral in getting out the vote in the Spring and Champions portions of District 2 where our Democratic base is growing. Several activities with those campaigns are in the works, including block-walking and meet-and-greet events throughout those areas. We will keep you posted or you can also visit www.GaryBinderim.com for more information.

Phone-Banking Set to Start
As expansive as District 2 is, it will be quite a challenge to walk every block and meet every voter. Part of the plan to introduce Gary to voters around the District will be conducted through volunteer phone banking. We are asking for volunteers to sign-up to call voters in the area to introduce the campaign, inform voters of volunteer opportunities, and provide other campaign information, as needed. If you're interested, e-mail us at Vote4Gary@gmail.com. We will provide you the phone list and the script and you can make the calls from the comfort of your own home. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Your $upport is Also Needed
Running a Congressional campaign is no easy feat and it also takes money. Along with the usual printing of signs, push cards, buttons, and other paraphernalia, there is also the cost of gas and volunteer expenses (water, snacks, etc.) to get out the vote. As we get closer to November, we'll need even more support to double our efforts throughout the District. We need you to step up and commit to help the campaign any way you can. $35 will pay for 1,600 push cards. $50 will pay for printing 100 buttons to give to supporters. $100 will pay our long distance bill. You get the picture? It really does add up. Every dollar helps us get in touch with the people that Ted Poe continually votes against.

It is the support of working people committed to making change happen that will not only make the Binderim Campaign competitive, but also victorious.

Ted Poe is giving us every opportunity to win:
He voted to continue the tax cuts for the wealthy--a cut that benefits millionaires (less than 3% of District 2 households).
He voted to protect price gouging oil companies--he was one of 36 that voted against protecting consumers.
He continues to be bankrolled by BIG OIL, drug companies and other special interests--he is not representing you.
He continues to hide behind the politics of division and intolerance, while voting against the best interests of District 2 every chance he gets.

Simply put, it is time for Poe to go!

And you can help send him home by supporting the Gary Binderim Campaign today.

"This campaign is not just about exposing the indifference Ted Poe has toward the majority of District 2, it is also about offering the voters our solutions to the challenges facing our country. This campaign is also about the entire Democratic ticket. In the last decade Democrats have not had this big of an opportunity to be victorious up and down the ballot. Republican officeholders at every level are giving us every opportunity to take advantage of their votes and practices against the people. Ted Poe simply does not represent the values of the majority of people in District 2 and he proves it everyday. But it is up to all of us to make a statement, not only by voting, but by working to inform every voter we can, engaging them in the electoral and political process, and getting them to the polls. That is what my campaign is about, and I need your help to get me and Democrats in our area elected." Gary Binderim

Contributions or gifts to the Campaign to Elect Gary Binderim are not tax deductible. Federal law requires us to use best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 per election cycle.

Mail to: Gary Binderim Campaign, Jenni Strader-Treasurer, 3011 Brook Shore Court, Kingwood, TX 77339

Political Advertisement paid for by the Gary Binderim Campaign

A Response to the President and Ted Poe

2006-05-15T22:14:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Stace Medellin, vote4gary@gmail.com
832-868-9931

Binderim Responds to Bush Immigration Speech, Poe

Gary Binderim, candidate for Congressional District 2, responded to President Bush’s speech on Immigration. Binderim responded to specific lines in the President's speech (in bold), as well as to his opponent's response:

“We will fix the problems created by illegal immigration, and we will deliver a system that is secure, orderly and fair. So I support comprehensive immigration reform...”

“I am glad that the President, much like the majority of Americans, supports comprehensive immigration reform. While we may not agree with every aspect of his five point plan, there is an opportunity to continuing the discussion toward a working solution that addresses border security, our need for hard-working people, and the identification of 12 million undocumented people that currently live in the underground economy. Only a comprehensive plan will make us safer and make our economy stronger.”

“We honor the heritage of all who come here, no matter where they are from...”

Binderim stated: “President Bush has acknowledged once again how most Americans feel. Unfortunately, many in his Republican Party, including Ted Poe, Tom Tancredo, and others in the fringes are spouting hateful rhetoric that has gone unchecked by their leaders. We have an opportunity to bring some sanity to the debate after the President’s speech, while my opponent will certainly continue his divisive wedge politics. America is demanding unity and leadership and I’m the only candidate in this race that supports that direction.”

Binderim also responded further to Poe’s support of reactionary and divisive policies created by a small minority of Republicans on the fringes:

“First of all, Ted Poe continues to prove that he does not want to work well with others, and that is not what District 2 needs. Ted Poe's insane ideas do not make us safer, if anything, they make us more vulnerable than ever."

"Secondly, Ted Poe continues to avoid the real problems that are affecting the vast majority of District 2: Our cost of living is increasing, while Ted Poe provides millionaires whatever they demand of him; college tuition continues to increase, while financial aid for middle class families becomes harder to obtain because of Ted Poe; gas prices continue to be a burden on most District 2 families, while Ted Poe enjoys big checks from Big Oil; health care for the children and elderly continues to be a challenge, while Ted Poe enjoys rubbing elbows with the insurance lobby."

"Simply put, Ted Poe is out of touch with the people of District 2 and he is scapegoating a group of people for his own benefit, while doing nothing to improve the livelihood of the people of District 2. We can do better; and I will do better.”

Poe Ignores the Working People of District 2

2006-05-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Contact:
Stace Medellin, vote4gary@gmail.com, 832-868-9931

Continuing to disregard the vast majority of families in District 2, District 2 Congressman Ted Poe voted with his party to continue to increase deficit spending to pay for tax cuts exclusively for the wealthy and other special interests.

Gary Binderim, candidate for House of Representatives District 2, stated, "Poe has chosen to irresponsibly place working Americans deeper in debt," adding, "our government is on track to amassing a 9 trillion dollar deficit, and one-third of it has been added by Republicans since 2001. It is the children and grandchildren of middle and working class Americans that will be left with a huge debt--all for the purpose of funding corporate welfare."

Critics, including most Democrats, attacked the tax rate reductions on dividends and capital gains as being skewed in favor of the rich. They noted that it was the second half of a GOP budget package that began with $39 billion in benefit cuts over five years, many of which came from programs for the poor such as Medicaid. (Houston Chronicle)

Democrats also cited a joint study by the Urban Institute and the Brookings Institution that shows taxpayers with incomes greater than $1 million per year winning tax cuts of $42,000 under the bill while families with incomes of $50,000 a year would average a $46 tax cut. (Houston Chronicle)

Ted Poe and the Republicans have chosen to cut into health care benefits available to over 40 million uninsured Americans. According to Binderim, "By attacking children and other uninsured individuals, as well as the vast majority of families that make below $50,000 a year, it seems like the Republicans have declared a class war on America. It's time for working people to respond at the ballot box."

According to the Census Bureau (2004), 53% of households in District 2 made below $50,000 per year. Only 2.9% of households in District 2 made above $200,000. No indication was given as to how many millionaires reside in District 2, but they are included in the 2.9% figure.

According to Binderim, "Obviously, there aren't many millionaires in District 2, but there is an overabundance of middle class households that will gain little to nothing from these tax cuts, while working class families will pick up the tab and see no relief whatsoever." He added, "The majority of families in District 2 want to be represented by someone who will work to create solutions to pay for increasing college tuition, increasing gas prices, and the ever-increasing cost of living, and that is not Ted Poe."

Binderim in Beaumont for Cinco de Mayo Weekend

2006-05-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

We had a productive day in Beaumont and Port Arthur today with the Binderim campaign. Gary Binderim spoke today to the National Association of Letter Carriers--District 1 at the Holiday Inn in Port Arthur. Although he was given a warm reception in the first minute after his arrival, his fan base grew exponentially as soon as it was announced that he is the guy taking on Ted Poe.

Gary spoke from the heart today about his issues, his decision to take on a corporate-funded republican, and about his family's union background. He gained individual supporters and campaign volunteers after announcing that he is not a fan of Postal Service privatization and that he is not about to mess with the livelihood of hard-working people that provide an essential service to America. And he is not about to compromise the quality of work that they do in favor of corporate contracts that effect little quality of service.

After having lunch with the group and speaking personally to several individuals--many of them still going through the FEMA failures (administrative and otherwise) after Rita--we headed off on a tour of Port Arthur and Beaumont.It is amazing that this area is still a sea of blue-tarped roofs. Even sadder is driving by a construction contracting business whose first commitment is to rebuilding their own infrastructure before getting back to business. And eight months later, not only is rebuilding barely starting, there are still piles of debris at every corner in certain (and poorer) areas of the district. Where's Ted Poe?

After the tour, we ended up at Riverfront Park in downtown Beaumont for the Cinco de Mayo festival. Unfortunately, the crowd was a bit thin after the same showers that hit us in Kingwood this morning, hit them later in the morning. But we met many good Latinos--Democrats! Some had not voted, others had been voters but were hungry to become activists, but they were not afraid to talk to Gary about their feelings toward Ted Poe and the Republican Congress. The vast majority felt that McCain-Kennedy was a good start, but more than anything, their demands are for simple respect--something the Republicans (and a few area Democrats) are yet to provide the community, according to them. So, it is safe to say that Gary gained some fans in the Latino community of B/PA today.

We were overjoyed in meeting this young lady--a 16 year-old citizen, daughter of immigrants. She's active in the community, she marched with thousands of others in Beaumont and Port Arthur on Monday in support of human and civil rights, and she's ready to help elect good people. The shocker? She picks whom she supports based on key issues and not rhetoric! A very intelligent young woman that is sure to be on the ballot one day soon.

All in all, a great day.

Poe Votes to Protect Price Gougers

2006-05-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

Contact: Stace Medellin, 281-361-5808, vote4gary@gmail.com

For Immediate Release

Poe Sides With Price Gougers

In bipartisan fashion, the House of Representatives voted 389-34 to penalize price gougers at all levels of the oil and gas industry. Among those voting against protecting consumers was District 2 Congressmember Ted Poe (Roll Call #115, 5/2/06).

The Federal Energy Price Protection Act was also supported by President George W. Bush who stated: "The price of gasoline should serve as a wakeup call ... that we've got an energy security problem," Bush said after the meeting.

"Ted Poe had the opportunity to side with the hard-working consumers in District 2, and instead voted on the side of those that fund his campaign and his indifference toward the people." said Gary Binderim, Democratic candidate for District 2. Binderim added, "Obviously, Ted Poe has his priorities; I guess the people of District 2 are not a priority in Ted Poe's agenda."

For more information on the Binderim Campaign for Congress, visit www.GaryBinderim.com.

Poe Chooses Big Oil over the People

2006-04-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Gary Binderim, 281-770-0413
Stace Medellin, 281-361-5808
Email: vote4gary@gmail.com

Poe Chooses Oil Buddies Over the People

KINGWOOD, TX—Gas prices continue their climb in Congressional District 2, affecting middle and working class families from one end of the district to the other. Do you know where your congressman is?

According to candidate for Congressional District 2, Gary Binderim, one-term incumbent Ted Poe has been missing in action. “As gas prices and the overall cost of living increase, everything we work for seems to be worth less,” said Binderim, adding, “Where’s our congressman?”

According to Federal Election Commission documents, Poe has already taken in thousands of dollars from oil and energy companies, while voting against a measure to crack down on price gouging. “Ted Poe voted to protect the special interests that have funded his campaign and his indifference toward the people of District 2,” said Binderim.

Binderim blasted Poe’s idea that the solution to high gas prices is more drilling. “Instead of cracking down on oil companies like Exxon Mobil, whose quarterly profits amounted to eight billion dollars during a time when the vast majority of families in District 2 struggle to make ends meet, my opponent is busy raking in PAC money from the oil industry and allowing these companies to profit off the backs of hard-working people like you and me.”

Binderim stated that it is time to eliminate the loopholes that allow oil companies to profit in the billions, while providing no relief to consumers. “We can no longer sit idle and allow oil companies and their Congressional lackeys to hold the American people hostage. It is time for them to pay up, or transfer their savings to us. They sure aren't investing much.”

According to Binderim, it is time for representation from someone that will fight for families first, and not someone beholden to wealthy interests that benefit few people in District 2. “Enough is enough. My only special interest is the people of District 2.”

For more information on Gary Binderim, visit www.GaryBinderim.com.

Binderim Responds to Anti-Troop Vote

2006-04-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

Contact:

Gary Binderim, 281-770-0413
Stace Medellin, 281-361-5808
Email: vote4gary@gmail.com

SENATE VOTES AGAINST OUR TROOPS, BINDERIM SAYS

After the United States Senate voted to divert funding for the war in Iraq to so-called “border security” expenses, Gary Binderim, candidate for Congress District 2 called the measure “a vote against our troops.”

The Senate voted against needed equipment needed by our soldiers in Iraq, including body armor and training to defeat improvised explosive devices, according to Binderim. “The Senate Republicans voted to place our troops further in danger where they are currently deployed in order to play wedge politics with the immigration issue,” said Binderim.

“There is no doubt that we must increase border security, but there is a big difference between the danger our troops face in a war zone and a border that attracts unarmed people coming to the U.S. to work,” said Binderim, adding, “There’s a big difference between IED’s exploding beneath our troop vehicles in Iraq and unarmed people that want to work and contribute to our country—I will always vote for our troops.”

He added: “If you want to bring our troops home quickly and intact, send them the equipment they need—what should have been done in the first place. If you want immigration reform, then do it humanely and comprehensively.”

Press Statement on DeLay Resignation

2006-04-04T05:35:00.000-07:00

GARY BINDERIM

Democrat for Congress

www.GaryBinderim.com

Contact:
Gary Binderim at 281-770-0413
Email: vote4gary@gmail.com

BINDERIM REACTS TO TOM DELAY RESIGNATION

Kingwood, TX- Gary Binderim, candidate for Texas Congressional District 2, releases this statement in reaction to the resignation of Tom DeLay from Congress:

According to the Beaumont Enterprise, Poe expressed surprise: "I was surprised by the news of his withdraw from the race and decision to leave Congress. " said Poe.

"Who's going to tell Ted Poe how to vote now? He voted with Tom DeLay 92% of the time and even voted to protect DeLay from House Ethics Rules. Ted Poe is a part of DeLay's 'culture of corruption' and we need corruption-free representation in District 2"

“But this also goes beyond the corruption of Tom DeLay and his buddies,” said Binderim, “voters must question the Poe-DeLay agenda of ‘government for the wealthy’ and ask if District 2 is truly being represented effectively. I’m running to give the voters of District 2 a choice between responsible, ethical government and the members-only politics of Poe and DeLay.”

Binderim Campaign Update

2006-04-04T05:13:00.000-07:00

GARY BINDERIM
Democrat for Congress
www.GaryBinderim.com

Greetings! Thanks to all of you for your continued support and for working hard toward that Democratic victory in November.

TED POE LOSES HIS BUDDY
That's right! It has been announced that Tom DeLay is dropping out of Congress, which makes me ask: Who's going to tell Ted Poe how to vote? After voting with Tom DeLay 92% of the time, and even voting to protect DeLay from House ethics rules that protect our government from political corruption, what is Ted Poe to do without his boss? On whose orders will Poe march now? Certainly, he will not have the interests of District 2 in mind, as always.

District 2 is ready for a change in representation toward one that is in tune to the values of the hard-working people of this district. I intend to be the representative that will fight for you in DC.

VOTE EARLY!
We have a Democratic Primary Run-Off in progress. Early voting began on Monday, April 3 and will last thru Friday, April 7. Run-Off election day is on April 11th. We already know that those of you who receive this message usually vote, but as our Party's strength, we also need you to Get Out The Vote. Along with some local races in some areas of the district, we also have two major races on the ballot to choose our Democratic candidates for United States Senate and Texas Lt. Governor.

While we have two good Democrats (Maria Luisa Alvarado and Ben Grant) in the running for Lt. Governor, there is only one proven Democrat, and some say the only real candidate, in the run-off for US Senate and that is Barbara Radnofsky. I urge you to support and vote for Barbara Radnofsky, our next United States Senator.

GAINING GROUND
Our campaign continues to gain ground. We have begun our press campaign, which includes attempting to gain coverage in area newspapers and other media outlets in order to reach beyond the Democratic base. Of course, the area progressive bloggers have been a great help at getting the word out to activists and voters in the district. We continue to visit Democratic and other organizations and will begin visiting Labor groups around the district very soon. Most importantly, we will engage our Democratic precinct chairs throughout the district to begin a grassroots campaign that will not only help this campaign, but every single Democrat on the ballot. But it will take a lot more than just hard work from all of us.

While we intend to run a grassroots campaign, it takes all kinds of supplies, including bumper stickers, push cards, yard signs, gasoline to travel the district from end-to-end, office supplies, and more. While we expect Ted Poe to tap into every special and corporate interest around, we intend to win this race with your help--and without the price tag that Poe displays so prominently. We need your help. Please contribute today!

Please contribute what you can--even small donations add up and make a difference in this campaign. You may mail your contributions payable to the Gary Binderim Campaign to: Jenni Strader, Treasurer, 3011 Brook Shore Court, Kingwood, TX 77345.

You may also contribute online by simply clicking here: https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/page/binderim

Thanks again for your support. I look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail.

Democratically Yours,

Gary Binderim
Democrat for Congress
www.GaryBinderim.com

A great day at Good Oil Days...

2006-04-01T15:54:00.000-08:00

Gary Binderim was out at Good Oil Days in Humble today, where he met hundreds of voters and passed out campaign literature. According to Gary, he received a very good reception and made a lot of good contacts.

Throughout the following few weeks, the media campaign begins. We expect numerous newspapers throughout District 2 to become balanced in their coverage of the District 2 race.

Binderim Responds to Senate Immigration Plan

2006-03-28T19:41:00.000-08:00

GARY BINDERIM

DEMOCRAT FOR CONGRESS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Gary Binderim at 281-770-0413
Email: vote4gary@gmail.com

BINDERIM RESPONDS TO SENATE IMMIGRATION PLAN

KINGWOOD, TX- Gary Binderim, candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, District 2, responded to the Senate Judiciary Committee’s vote on legislation to address immigration comprehensively.

On the Committee’s Bipartisan Vote:
“It is because of the leadership exhibited by Senator Kennedy on the Committee, along with Senator McCain as a co-sponsor, that a responsible and reasonable plan was created,” said Binderim, adding, “And I commend Republican Senators Brownback, Graham, and DeWine for having the courage to go against the ultra-restrictive ideas passed by Ted Poe and the House of Representatives.”

On the Guest Worker Program
“I think the guest worker proposal lays a good foundation for continued discussion, and it is more than Ted Poe and the House Republicans offered.” said Binderim, “But we must also ensure that the program will only benefit occupations where there is a critical staffing need, and assure that the jobs of skilled American workers are protected. A guest worker plan should not serve profiteering corporations that want to fill skilled positions with cheap labor.”

On the Committee’s plan:
“The plan contains exactly what I have supported: it strengthens border security, it creates an opportunity to ensure critical staffing needs are met, it calls for retroactive tax payments and fines for immigrants already in the country, and it contains language that will begin a process for identifying immigrants humanely and effectively.”

“This plan puts our country on track to securing our borders from the real threats, terrorists and drug lords, while acting humanely in assuring that those that contribute to our nation are given the respect they have earned.”

“There are no freebies in this plan. Immigrants will have to pay to stay, in the form of retroactive payment of taxes and penalties for crossing illegally in the first place. I believe all sides of this issue are addressed positively and humanely, as it should have been addressed by Ted Poe.”

On the SJC’s Removal of Criminal Charges for Humanitarians
“I am proud of the Committee for removing policies that Ted Poe and the House proposed that would have criminalized churches, nonprofit groups, hospitals, and individuals that help immigrant families in need,” said Binderim, “The criminalization of compassionate people that see beyond legal status is just plain wrong.”

###

Binderim Speaks to SD4 Activists

2006-03-26T19:11:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Stace Medellin at 281-361-5808 (Campaign News)
Gary Binderim at 281-770-0413 (Direct Candidate Contact)
Email: vote4gary@gmail.com

BINDERIM SPEAKS TO AREA VOTERS

KINGWOOD, TX- Gary Binderim, candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, District 2, spoke to a meeting of Senate District 4 political activists on Saturday, March 25. The meeting was held at Kingwood College, and was part of a long day which had Binderim traveling from Kingwood to Beaumont.

Binderim stated that he will oppose privatization of social security, and instead work to ensure its viability as a national safety-net for those hard-working Americans who have loyally contributed to our nation’s workforce. “Protecting and strengthening Social Security will be my number one priority in the Congress,” said Binderim,”I will work to make sure that Social Security will be there for our parents, for us, and for our children.” Binderim added that Ted Poe’s plan for social security destroys the national safety net by handing over Americans’ hard-earned dollars to Wall Street.

Binderim also spoke about the ever-increasing tax burden placed on Americans, placing the responsibility on the “siphon and spend” Republican Congress that is on target to run up a $9 trillion deficit that will be left for future generations to pay. “We can reduce taxes on the middle class and small businessmen by staying out of ill conceived foreign adventures, by reducing pervasive Republican corruption, by eliminating spending for programs that were never meant to work in the first place, and by asking the wealthy to start paying their fair share” said Binderim.

On the issue of national security, Binderim stated that Ted Poe’s support for the Bush administration’s failed management of this war shows his ideological inflexibility and a lack of strategic vision. “Our military is being weakened because of the incompetent political leadership of an administration that would rather spend billions building a missile defense system that does not work while, at the same time, cutting back on veterans care and benefits.” Binderim continued that Ted Poe is part of a rubber-stamping Congress that will not change its ways unless there is a change in representation in District 2 and beyond.

For more information on the Gary Binderim for Congress campaign, visit www.GaryBinderim.com.

Success in Beaumont!

2006-03-11T19:41:00.000-08:00

Gary Binderim (CD02) returned from Jefferson County having laid a good foundation with which to work with from now till November. Over 50 hard-core Progressive Democrats, including JC Party Chair Gilbert Adams and JC Party Executive Director Joe Deshotel (son of the State Rep.), attended the introduction held at Acapulco Grill. This group seems to be on the ball as most of their members worked the Primary and, although they achieved a 25% voter turnout (it was among the highest in TX), it wasn't good enough for them and they will work even harder.

Binderim gave an overview of the issues he plans to run on, while interjecting some of Ted Poe's shortcomings, such as being beholden to corporate interests and Tom DeLay (he voted 92% of the time with Tommy in exchange for a nice ARMPAC contribution). That is what they enjoyed most about Gary--he's not only taking on Poe, he's also providing solutions that many, even in Kingwood, are giving a second look. If only 13,800 Republicans coming out to vote in a contested primary in Harris County District 2 is any indication, Binderim has an opportunity to "sell his wares" to voters that are wanting change--and most of all, are willing and ready to listen.

One supporter that was truly impressive was former State Senator Carl Parker. He spoke before Gary. The good Senator ended up laying the foundation for Gary's speech. The self-described Baptist Church-raised Liberal (this was quite confusing for right-wingers in the legislature who couldn't even recite scripture, but he could) gave us a great speech on the current state of Texas Politics and the opportunities that we need to take and succeed with by: Not running to the right; returning to the grassroots; and challenging the Republicans with our solutions every step of the way.

Earlier in the day, Binderim visited Port Arthur and Sabine Pass. Six months after Hurricane Rita, the entire area is still a sea of blue roofs--from all the tarps placed on top of homes and businesses damaged. Recently, the federal government told the City of Beaumont that they have received enough assistance because they didn't get "that much damage." One has to wonder if they have even spoken to the folks in Port Arthur and Sabine Pass? One has to wonder if Ted Poe has even tried to do anything about it! It was reported that the "clean-up" was just about done; it sure didn't look like it as we drove past huge piles of debris, buildings that are yet to be condemned, and areas of town that are yet to be fixed. On top of this, there is a shortage of contractors for rebuilding as their properties and equipment were also damaged--was there any help for them to get back on their feet?

Gary met a lot of good people, and let me tell you, it sure felt nice to be in a place that is very friendly and ready to work for victory! As Binderim said, we need to work on empowering voters who have continually been ignored by Ted Poe and the Republicans and get them to the polls. And this group of Progressive Dems is just the group that can help do that.

Thanks to the Staffords for the hospitality and to the Progressive Democrats for launching the Binderim campaign in Jefferson County.

Spring Observer Covers Binderim, Nelson-Turnier

2006-03-03T18:50:00.000-08:00

Here's a link to the article in .pdf format. Adobe Acrobat Reader required.

"I did know that Ted Poe was not representing my interests or the interests of others, so I entered the race to provide a voice for family values rather than corporate values." Gary Binderim

Poe's Partisanship is the Problem

2006-02-28T16:32:00.000-08:00

While Ted Poe attempts, and fails, to portray himself as nonpartisan, "experts" within his own right-wing frame of thought think otherwise.

Poe states: "I don't ever approach anything with a partisan point of view," Poe said. "I don't do the party line. I don't do the administration line." (Quote in the Beaumont Enterprise, 2/26/06)

Norman Ornstein, a scholar at the Washington-based American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank, said Poe has been keeping a low profile, which is pretty normal for a freshman House member.

Ornstein said. "Right now, he is digging in, being loyal to his party and trying to figure out how to operate in this environment."

During his first year in office, Poe voted with the House Republican leadership 94 percent of the time and with the Bush administration 81 percent of the time, according to Congressional Quarterly.

House Republicans voted on average with the party's leadership 90 percent of the time, meaning that Poe is above average in party loyalty.

The reality is that Poe is not representing his district, as he states. He was too busy representing his leadership, which included Tom DeLay. In fact, according to cited sources:

* Ted Poe has taken $5,000 from Tom DeLay's ARMPAC. No surprise that Poe voted with Tom DeLay 92% of the time.

* Ted Poe voted to weaken the ethics rules in a move that many say served only to protect Tom DeLay.

* When Democrats offered a solution to clean up the House by strengthening ethics rules, Ted Poe voted twice to make sure it never even came to an up or down vote.

It's time for honest, thoughtful leadership that has the interests of the district in mind. Gary Binderim is that leader.

Binderim's Been Busy...

2006-02-24T00:15:00.000-08:00

The Democrat that will take on Ted Poe in November has been busy. Gary Binderim, candidate for Congressional District 2, has been busy visiting progressive groups around the District since filing.

Most recently, Binderim visited the Spring Democratic Club where he introduced himself to voters living in the FM 1960 area. After a long and substantive Q & A session, the SDC endorsed Gary. SDC is one of the newer groups in the area, but has a contingent of strong and active members with much experience on campaigns. They have committed to assisting the campaigns of Chad Kahn for HD126 and Dot Nelson-Turnier for HD150, along with the Binderim campaign.

He also visited the I-10 East Democrats club out in Baytown, a prime area for Democratic votes in the District. He was privileged to meet with club leader Laura Woods and several activists ready to work the campaign in that part of the District.

He also paid visits to the Democracy for Houston and the Houston Democratic Forum where he was received with much excitement. DFH is known for supporting the "run everywhere" plan--assuring that Democrats are running against entrenched Republicans even in the most difficult areas. At the HDF meeting, he met former CD-02 candidate and Tom DeLay's challenger in CD-22, Nick Lampson. Lampson offered his best wishes to the campaign, as well as some valuable advice.

District 2, by far, is not a Republican district. 2004's election results (56-43) proved that this District can indeed change hands. Voters are dissatisfied with Poe and the Republican way of doing things. Independents and moderate Republicans interested in pocketbook issues can agree with the common sense approach Gary Binderim offers. The question that should be answered by independents and moderate Republicans is: Has Ted Poe done enough to fight for your present and future? The answer is a resounding NO! And now is the opportunity to achieve change.

Soon, the Binderim campaign will embark to other areas of the District, including Liberty and Jefferson Counties. In fact, on March 9, the Binderim Campaign will travel to Beaumont to visit with the Progressive Democrats of Jefferson County and the Young Democrats. Other key groups and individuals are expected to be in attendance at what will be the official introduction of Gary Binderim to Jefferson County.

www.GaryBinderim.com

Ted Poe has failed Beaumont

2006-02-23T22:36:00.000-08:00

Ted Poe Has Failed Beaumont
6000 Beaumont families lost their homes during Hurricane Rita--the "forgotten storm." How does Beaumont's Mayor Goodsen describe the Republican government's response? "Well, gee, you weren't hurt that bad, so you don't need that much recovery money," Goodsen said of the government's impression. And the effects:

There are so many service industry businesses that are hurting, that help wanted signs are like welcome mats. That's because the highest-paying jobs are now in construction.

"We lost 75 percent of our staff. It's real tough to get people in here," said Durell Moore, manager of Logan's Texas Steakhouse. "This is the vicious cycle that you see at Beaumont restaurants: not enough employees, so as a result, some restaurants are closing early, or shutting down certain days. One business is hiring guys at $14 an hour, and it's like wow, we can't do that."

So, it must be asked: What has Ted Poe done to help post-Rita Beaumont?

According to the Mayor: "We feel the government is erring in not only amount of money, but not being proactive to work with us," he said. Well, someone should and will work with them...the people's candidate for Congress, Gary Binderim.

Binderim Announces for Congressional District 2

2006-02-01T22:57:00.000-08:00

GARY BINDERIM for CONGRESS
Contact: Stace Medellin, 281-361-5808
Email: vote4gary@gmail.com
Web: www.GaryBinderim.com

Binderim Announces for District 2

Will Challenge Ted Poe in November

KINGWOOD, TX- Gary Binderim, a 23-year resident of Kingwood, has announced that he is a candidate for U.S. Congress, District 2. Binderim will challenge one-term incumbent Ted Poe in November.

“America is faced with serious problems, including a growing Republican-created deficit; a lack of priorities that have failed to effectively secure our nation; that have failed to build an effective and productive workforce through the improvement of our education system; and that have failed all Americans who want access to the benefits of a productive economy: job security, health care, educational and training opportunities, and every ingredient that helps build a better America” said Binderim.

Binderim also cited the current “culture of corruption” which Ted Poe supported by voting to weaken House ethics rules in a move that many say served only to protect Tom DeLay (H Res. 5, Roll Call #6, 1/4/05). “Bad behavior should not be rewarded or swept under the rugs at the Capitol, and using your Congressional buddies to protect you shows how far some are willing to go,” said Binderim, adding, “we must assure that our government is honest and open if we are to re-gain the trust of the people.” Strengthening House Ethics rules is the key to gaining that trust, according to Binderim.

Binderim states he will run a campaign on issues of importance to the majority of District 2 voters. “The hard-working families of District 2 deserve a representative that will provide solutions to those problems we are all concerned with: assuring our military men and women are trained and equipped prior to sending them on missions in order to assure effectiveness and a quick return home; ensuring affordable health care access, especially to our small businesses and struggling families; strengthening Social Security; strengthening our workforce through a real commitment to public education; and tax reform that benefits the vast majority of families.”

The Republican Congress is also to blame for an out-of-control deficit, according to Binderim. “After gutting programs that provide a ladder for prosperity to most Americans in order to give the wealthy and special interests huge tax cuts, that same Congress voted to further increase our debt to nine trillion dollars—that’s a nine with 12 zeroes and will be left to those generations after us to pay.” Binderim further remarked that Ted Poe and the Republican priorities in no way mirror the needs of the middle and working class people of District 2, adding, “As gas prices and the overall cost of living increase, everything we work for seems to be worth less. This won’t stop without a change in our leadership and our priorities.”

In regards to immigration, Binderim said that Poe’s support of wedge-making policies will further divide the country and do little to protect it from terrorists and drug smugglers. “If we truly want to address the issue of immigration, we need to do it comprehensively in order to assure that our borders and ports are secure from terrorist threats, our economy is strengthened by a viable workforce, and assure that the 12 million immigrants already in the United States are humanely identified and made a part of our tax rolls.” Binderim supports legislation that allows undocumented individuals the opportunity to “pay to stay” by paying fines and back taxes, assuring that there is no amnesty. “In an amnesty, the undocumented would simply be forgiven without fines; the plan that Democrats supports is not an amnesty, yet is humane and keeps families intact.”

Of importance to Binderim are the critical needs of first responders. “The FEMA failures after Katrina, the communications problems after Hurricane Rita in Houston, are all signs that Congress has failed to assure a prompt and effective response to natural disasters.” First responders must be more than adequately prepared for any situation, and assuring support in the form of equipment and training is of the essence, said Binderim, adding, “This, along with an effective First Response Communication System, will assure that all levels of government are effectively serving the needs of disaster survivors, instead of placing political careers first.”

Binderim has worked for his present company as a water utility manager for 23 years. He was the company’s Area Manager for Kingwood, Texas and surrounding areas from December 1982 to February 1991. Since that time he has performed environmental compliance work on the corporate level, especially in regards to the safety and security of the area’s drinking water.

Binderim’s proudest and most important accomplishment has been the privilege of raising his four daughters, each of which graduated from Kingwood High School. He has two grandsons and two of his son-in-laws are proudly serving in our nations military.

For more information on the Gary Binderim Campaign for Congress, visit http://www.garybinderim.com/.

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Welcome!

2006-02-01T13:54:00.000-08:00

Gary Binderim and General Wesley Clark (ret.)

Welcome to Binderim's Blog!

This blog shall serve as the official media outlet for the campaign to elect Gary Binderim to U.S. Congress District 2. Here, you will find press releases, policy pronouncements, campaign news, and more!

Since January 2--the filing deadline--Gary has been visiting various organizations around the district and plans to travel to other parts of the district, including Liberty and Jefferson Counties.

We invite you to visit us frequently as the Binderim Campaign develops and grows.

And remember...

Just Say NO to P oe!