In the past couple of weeks, our government has bailed out mortgage industry giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and America’s largest insurance company, AIG.  Our government is about to spend $700 BILLION more to bail out the banking.

More than a TRILLION dollars – YOUR dollars – are going to socialize industries that had been regulated (to protect taxpayers) since the Great Depression.

The economic crisis was aided by our Congressman.  For his entire political career, Congressman Doc Hastings loudly championed the ideology of deregulation.  He was rewarded with hundreds of thousands of dollars in PAC contributions from the mortgage, insurance, and finance industry.
My name is George Fearing and this is where I stand.

American taxpayers should not be robbed by bad managers and crooked CEOs. American taxpayers need greater protections before their government socializes the banking, mortgage and insurance industries.

The safety protections included the oversight Securities and Exchange Commission, and other industries were monitored to prevent a repeat of 1929. But those protections were removed, in the name of deregulation.  Corporations profited, while consumers were overcharged, and now, taxpayers are on the hook for more than a TRILLION dollars.

I am for protecting homeowners who were defrauded into mortgages they couldn’t afford.  While homeowners find themselves in debt that is difficult get out of, even in bankruptcy, the mortgage companies and banks get an easy bailout.  To use $700 billion bailing out banks while denying taxpayers any protections is simply obscene.

Doc Hastings has helped bring the United States to the brink of financial ruin.  The voters of Central Washington deserve new leadership and accountability.  When I am your Representative, I will put our people before the Party, and I will put common sense before corporate greed.
It’s time for a change.

We have a serious problem in our country.  And we have some serious challenges in Central Washington.  And the economic crisis makes it more difficult to remedy our challenges.
Hanford is the world’s second most radioactively contaminated site, after Chernobyl.  Nuclear waste is leaking into the ground water.  We need to get back on track with the cleanup of Hanford. While the incumbent has not been effective in getting enough clean up money, Doc and the government can find $1 TRILLION to bail out bad management.  I will work to get this toxic mess cleaned up, creating thousands of jobs in the process.

But that’s not all. If you think being dependent on foreign oil is bad, try being dependent on foreign food. When the incumbent voted to give “Most Favored Nation” status to China, he gave Chinese farmers advantages that American farmers don’t have. Thanks to MFN, China wiped out our wheat gluten industry and all we got was 50,000 dead American pets. The only good thing about this tragedy is that it wasn’t 50,000 American children.

Last weekend, multi-national companies like Nestle discovered their products containing Chinese milk were contaminated with melamine.  Nestle exports thousands of products to America, many destined for children.  Many companies used to operate in the United States, but Hastings-supported tax breaks encouraged companies to move to China.

It is time for a change.  It’s time for a Representative that will fight harder for American farmers than those in China, and for American-based businesses instead of those around the world.
Change starts here, and it starts with me. I am asking for you to join with me, to save this country.  Many people have parents and grandparents who survived the Great Depression.  Let’s seek out their wisdom, as we untangle the web of problems brought about by poor leadership.
The time has come for a new Congressman.  The time has come for George Fearing.

We have learned to live with that truth, but are resolved never to allow it to happen again if diligence and preparedness can help us avoid it. In seven years, we have not forgotten. In seventy years, we will still light a candle and remember those whose lives were cut short so tragically. And by remembering, we honor those lives and the lives of those who were left behind to wonder why it had to happen.

If we have no answer for that question, it is because life in America rarely edges our citizens out beyond the perimeter of reason into hate-filled chaos virulent enough to cause the murder of innocents. We should take another moment to be thankful for that. It isn’t that life here is perfect - far from it. We have a higher incidence of bankruptcy than at any time since the great depression and more mortgage foreclosures than any time since the 1930s. Still, most of us shoulder our burdens and even try to reach out a hand to help a neighbor.

The secret is hope. We are raised to hope for a better tomorrow. We hope that an answer to violence will come and that others in the world will work with us to spread that bright answer in communities across the globe. We hope our leaders will negotiate a lasting peace forged by a greater understanding of the challenges of other nations and our place in leading the way toward working to take on those challenges to overcome them. We hope our children’s lives will be better than our own so that they will bless the outcomes of our labors.

I stand with all Americans in remembering this still-recent tragedy. I pledge to do all that I can to work toward a more-secure future for my young son and all of America’s children. I believe that security is possible and that we here in Central Washington can help to achieve it. We must try for the sake of those whom we love best and for those whom we know least. For the children of our opponents are no less dear to them.

With every year that passes, let us reflect on the progress we made and be thankful for it.

We can achieve independence and affordability through our 4-point plan:

• Increase Domestic Drilling and Refining Capacity – Drilling on existing oil leases could capture up to 5 billion barrels a day. We must also increase our refining capacity. 300 refineries have closed in the past 25 years.
• Alternative Energy – As a long-term investment in our energy security, the United States must invest aggressively in all forms of alternative energy, including those we currently use in the 4th Congressional District: nuclear power, wind, solar, and natural gas.
• Release Oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve – Just as we released oil from the reserve during the first Gulf War and following Hurricane Katrina, we must free some of our reserved resources again today.
• Conservation – Conservative use and passing measures that provide tax credits and encourage investment in energy remodels, efficient automobiles, and retrofitting of existing equipment and physical plants is an essential step in controlling our energy production and consumption.

Drill Now and Drill Responsibly

We need to drill, and we need to drill now. But we must drill responsibly.

That’s why George supports the “Use it or Lose it” Bill proposed by the Committee on Natural Resources. “Use it or Lose it” means that oil companies must act to produce from the American land they already lease, or let it go.

Oil companies currently lease 68 million acres of American land. Much of the land is leased because the land has proven rich oil deposits. Unfortunately, instead of developing drilling operations as expected, many companies have chosen to sit idle and simply ask for more. This is unacceptable.

There is no need to expend federal lands, like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), or additional offshore territories until we have capitalized upon our currently leased land. We need to tell Big Oil, “Use it, or Lose it.”

Increase Refining Capacity

1998, our nation operated at over 95% refining capacity. Today we operate at 88% capacity. We are operating at our lowest refining capacity since 1992. Increasing our refining capacity will increase the available oil on the market as well as assist in driving down prices.

Research and Develop Alternative Fuel Sources

America’s economy is dependent on oil. With sky-high fuel costs, increasing worldwide demand and an accumulating ecological impact, insurmountable evidence proves the need to explore new fuel sources.

Central Washington is a pioneer in the energy sector. One of America’s largest hydroelectric power plants was constructed here, and operates more than 60 years after FDR cut the ribbon at Grand Coulee Dam. We have wind farms and plans for solar collectors, and a legion of scientific innovators in the Hanford community. Hanford could again become a leader in nuclear power; by recycling spent nuclear fuel rods into safe and clean electricity. Central Washington is in a unique position to provide decisive American leadership toward a sustainable and independent future.

Renewable energy is ideal; wind and solar resources can be infinitely tapped with little ecological damage. But although its potential is great, wind and solar are not yet able to generate enough electricity to meet the needs of our nation. We must continue to diversify our energy sector with development of cleaner and more efficient nuclear and biofuel industries, including clean-burning natural gas, as well as maintain and continue to develop current energy sources such as hydroelectric, wind, solar, geothermal, and wave power.

George wants to ensure we play a key role in planning for America’s energy future, so he will seek a seat on energy-related committees such as the Energy and Commerce Committee, Science and Technology Committee or the Committee on Natural Resources.

Release approximately 70 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve

Our government has stockpiled the largest emergency petroleum reserve in the entire world. As of July 28th, 2008, our current inventory includes 706.8 million barrels. If we released about 70 million barrels now, we would relieve some of the financial pressure so many hard-working Americans are facing, as well as smooth the transition to an increase of responsible domestic oil production. We have tapped our reserve in the past to a positive effect, and we can and should again.

Stop Oil Company Price Gouging and Windfall Profits

In recent years, oil companies have raked in record-breaking profits. In 2006 ExxonMobil had a total profit of more $40 billion, and in the 2nd quarter of 2008 they broke their own record for the biggest quarterly profit ever reported by an American company. Despite these extraordinary sums, Congress hands out billions in tax subsidies to oil corporations every year. George advocates standing up to Big Oil, curbing the practice of price gouging, and passing along savings to the American people.

Prioritize Personal Conservation

A generation ago, the President and Congress sought aggressive tax benefits for consumers to invest in energy efficiency for their homes. Even George W. Bush supported a two-year energy tax credit plan, where homeowners could gain tax credits for insulating their homes, installing energy-efficient windows and tankless hot water heaters, and purchasing hybrid cars. Unfortunately, Doc Hastings voted to allow this program to expire, and homeowners are now on their own to make investments in their energy usage.

Tax write-offs and investment credits are an enormous boost to our economy, locally and nationally. As we have discovered, the United States spends more than $700 billion annually in foreign oil. If instead America were to invest in upgrading our factories, our stores, our homes and our vehicles, businesses small and large would benefit, construction and specialty workers would be engaged, and sales taxes would support our local economies instead of OPEC nations.

Where does Doc Hastings stand on the issues?

Hastings voted against “Use it Or Lose it.” He has voted to open ANWR to and to drilling offshore, even in areas opposed by local residents, without first asking oil companies to drill in areas they currently control.

Hastings is the only member of the Washington State congressional delegation to vote twice against federal bans on price gouging. He has also received more than $63,000 in campaign contributions from the oil and gas sector. It’s clear where his priorities lie.

Doc Hastings has failed to lead on any energy-related committees, unlike our three previous Representatives in the 4th Congressional District before him. Hastings often piggybacks on progressive legislation passed by Senators Murray and Cantwell, neglecting to lead but available for the photo op. It’s time for a change.

Fourth Congressional District candidate George Fearing made an appearance in Goldendale Friday.

The candidate, who spoke at a Klickitat County Democrats meeting, listed living wage jobs and scenic area protection as among his top priorities.

“Klickitat County needs more jobs and I would like to see some companies come here to develop alternative sources of energy such as wind power,” said the Democratic candidate.

“If we don’t do something soon, that aluminum plant is going to be torn down and used for parts.”

The Tri-Cities-area attorney, who cited listening as one of his political strengths, likened the legislative process to practicing law.

“A Congressman is like a lawyer,” he said. “You represent people and you put aside your own interests.”

Other issues the candidate touched on included public financing in campaigns, cleaning up the Hanford nuclear site, and changing current war policies.

“When I say I’m a pro-life Democrat, I mean I do not support 4,000 lives being lost in Iraq,” he said.

“I’m a pro-life Democrat who believes we need to care for our GIs when they come home.

The candidate is running against Republican incumbent Congressman Doc Hastings.

Although the Kennewick man said he firmly believes in the harmful effects global warming and runs a Democratic platform, he is not the typical liberal.

For example, the son of a Christian minister is a staunch advocate of Second Amendment gun ownership rights and said he wants to bridge party barriers.

“I’m here for Republicans and Democrats, I’m here for rich and poor, and I will listen to everyone.”

The congressional hopeful was joined at the Democratic meeting by other candidates Jerry Gaines, running for District Three County Commissioner, and District 15 State Representative candidates John Gotts and Tao Berman.

Issues on those candidate’s platforms included job creation, accessible healthcare, recycling, education, and ending the war. They also talked about bringing local services to the community.

“We don’t have enough senior citizen facilities,” said Gaines, who is from Bickleton. “We don’t have enough after school activities for the kids.”

“I like Klickitat County and I want to make a difference. I want to make it the best county around.”

Monday, March 17, 2008

Kennewick — Today, George Fearing, Democrat running for Congress against Rep. Doc Hastings, signed onto ‘The Responsible Plan to End the War in Iraq.’ This past Saturday noted the five-year anniversary of the War in Iraq.

‘The Responsible Plan to End the War in Iraq’ is presented to the nation by a growing list of candidates for Congress and retired military officers who have the courage to call for change, the ‘Responsible Plan to End the War in Iraq’ provides solutions to the most important obstacles for getting out of Iraq and onto restoring America’s moral standing in the world.

This plan can be downloaded here.

“A responsible plan to end the war means we must prepare for troop withdrawal in Iraq much more carefully than the current administration planned the initial invasion,” said Fearing. “It means we must end U.S. combat missions and lead with our diplomatic power.”

“But a responsible plan to end the war in Iraq does not end there,” Fearing continued. “It extends to helping create a stabilized region and addressing humanitarian concerns. It ends with restoring our Constitution, our military and the media.

“At the heart of the matter is that we must create a new U.S.- centered energy policy,” said Fearing.

Fearing concluded with a call to join the effort. “Join with me in calling for the ‘Responsible Plan to End the War in Iraq. Together we can get out of Iraq, strengthen America and restore our moral standing in the world.”

The plan answers two important strategic questions facing U.S. involvement in Iraq and provides a comprehensive plan to end the Iraq War responsibly:

1. How do we bring American military engagement in Iraq to a responsible end?

There is no military solution to the problems faced in Iraq: the real progress that can be made requires diplomatic, political, and economic means. We must stop counter-productive military operations by U.S. occupation forces and end our military presence in Iraq.

2. How do we prevent a repeat of the mistakes we’ve made?

The breakdown of checks and balances in our government led to bad decision-making which damaged America’s national security. Ending this war and preventing future situations like it requires that we restore these Constitutional checks and balances and fix the ways in which our governmental, military, and civil institutions have failed us.

End U.S. Military Action in Iraq:

There is no military solution in Iraq. Our current course unacceptably holds U.S. strategic fortunes hostage to events in Iraq that are beyond our control; we must change course. Using diplomatic, political, and economic power, we can responsibly end the war and bring all of our troops home from Iraq.

Using U.S. Diplomatic Power:

Much of the remaining work to be completed in Iraq requires the effective use of diplomatic power. Many of Iraq’s neighbors are currently contributing to instability and need to be persuaded to assist instead in stabilization.

Addressing Humanitarian Concerns:

The humanitarian crisis caused by Iraq’s situation is destabilizing to the region and damaging to America’s moral credibility. We must both take responsibility for the Iraqis who are now endangered because of their assistance to the U.S., and we must begin to address the regional problems of displaced Iraqis.

Restoring Our Constitution:

Many mistakes were made in the course of this war, and our systems of checks and balances have failed us at critical moments. To prevent repeating those mistakes, we must repair the underlying Constitutional framework of our republic and provide checks to executive authority.

Balance must be restored between the executive and the judicial branch (for instance through the restoration of habeas corpus), between the executive and the legislative branch (for instance through clarifying that the President does not have the Constitutional authority to unilaterally alter legislation through signing statements), and between the executive and the people of the United States (for instance by clarifying that the Fourth Amendment requires probable cause and a warrant for the government to spy on Americans).

Restoring Our Military:

Repairing the damage done to our military will require reforms in contracting procedures, restoring benefits for members of the military and veterans, and investment in repairing or replacing damaged military equipment.

The need for contracting reform is substantial. Private mercenary militias have direct incentives to prolong the conflict rather than resolve it; their use needs to be phased out. Contractors and mercenaries must be legally accountable for their actions. War profiteering must be stopped, and those who have engaged in it need to answer for their actions.

The safety of our men and women in uniform requires that we adhere to international standards with respect to treatment of prisoners. We must also make it clear that the United States does not torture, and that we do not send people to other places to be tortured, either.

The military is having substantial difficulty with recruiting and retention; we could begin to help by delivering on more of the promises the original Montgomery G.I. Bill made and by delivering on our promises regarding healthcare for veterans.

Restoring Independence to the Media:

The consolidation of our news media into the control of a relatively few corporate entities stifled a full and fair discussion and debate around Iraq. A more robust debate could be encouraged by expanding access to media.

Creating a new U.S.-Centered Energy Policy:

Finally, we are clearly tied to Iraq through our dependence on oil, which makes us vulnerable. Moving away from that dependence is necessary for strategic, economic, and environmental reasons.

Then on Tuesday, February 12th, George and a few supporters started at 6:30 in the morning to drive around the 4th CD so that George could make his formal campaign announcement. We stopped in Yakima, Wenatchee, Moses Lake and Richland so that George could talk to supporters, give his new stump speech and be interviewed by local press. We sincerely want to thank Ginny McIntyre and John Vann for helping out all day long. We also want to thank all the Democrats who came out to see George along the way and urge him to unseat the incumbent.

We are continuing to work hard to get George’s message of a return to balanced budgets, health care for all Americans, an end to American troops in Iraq – and competent medical care for our troops, a lessening of reliance on foreign oil, a reduction in green house gases and fair trade, not free trade with American trade partners.

You can help our campaign by volunteering or making a donation.

Click here to contact the campaign and volunteer!

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This is our year and you are part of the answer. Things are going to change for the better and remember, Change Starts Now!

Also, for those of you who didn’t get to see the video, here it is!

Weather permitting, on Tuesday, February 12th, 2008, George B. Fearing will formally announce his candidacy for Washington State’s 4th Congressional seat with a day-long tour of four of the district’s population centers. 
 

• At 8:00 AM, George will begin with a press conference at The Sub Shop, 20 N. 2nd Street, Yakima, WA 98901.
   
• At 11:00 AM, he’ll be at 5 S. Wenatchee Avenue in the headquarters of the Chelan/Douglas County Democrats.
   
• At 1:00 PM he’ll be in Moses Lake at Bob’s Café at the Inn, 1807 Kittleson Rd., Moses Lake, WA 98837.
   
• And he’ll finish the day with a 3:15 PM press conference in the Tri-Cities at the Richland Community Center, 500 Amon Park Drive, Richland.

George will be available to answer questions, talk about his reasons for running and why 2008 is going to be a great opportunity for 4th Congressional District residents to make a change to more effective representation.

For questions or further details, please call Mimi Latta, Campaign Manager, at 509-627-2679 or 509-378-5416.

One important recent update is George’s Fundraising page with Act Blue.  Act Blue provides a secure method for you to contribute to the Fearing Campiagn and can be found just to your left in the side bar.  As we all know, money doesn’t grow on trees, and neither do good candidates.  And we also know it takes money for good candidates to win elections.  Please contribute to the George Fearing campaign and help make this campaign a success!