As we approach the final hours before the AL-D2 Congressional Runoff between Republicans Martha Roby (I) and Bobby Bright, I thought I would weigh in on the hoopla that is and was Martha Roby’s decision not to vote for Donald Trump during the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election.
First, a quick refresher, back on October 8th, 2016, during a critical and uncertain time of the presidential race, Roby sent this tweet:
Donald Trump’s behavior makes him unacceptable as a candidate for president, and I won’t vote for him.
This caused an uproar among the staunchly pro-Trump Alabama 2nd congressional district Republican voters. Voters which had already elected Roby to face a token democrat and have no trouble winning re-election in November. Outburst such as this one went viral on the internet:
Well, as they say, the rest is history. History that you all know all too well. Roby barely edged out her
in the general and was elected for a fourth term to congress.
Now, here we are near the end of the 2018 season and Roby’s opponents are still bringing this up. Earlier today I was thinking about this blog and what I did to cover that election back in 2016. Deer Stand Hill was only a few months old as it’s currently incarnated and if you listen to the early podcast it shows. I did try to land interviews with influencers and the politicians running for office all got request from me for interviews. As I thought about those days, it hit me..The Roby email interview! There was a blog post that gained little traffic back in late October 2016 where Roby responded to a series of questions, that I asked during an email exchange with her campaign, regarding her decision to not support Trump. The post received little notice and a database issue caused me to lose it between then and now. But the original email? Well, today I found it! Here is the exchange between the Roby Campaign and myself, this is from October 20th, 2016:
(Question) Was the video released on October 7th the only factor in your decision to drop your support of Trump? If not, what were some other factors?
(Answer) Rep. Roby had several stated concerns about Donald Trump as the nominee, particularly as it concerned his shifting positions on conservative issues (life, spending, constitutional order, etc). But, she believe[sic] the best thing for the country and the party was to support the Republican nominee. After the tape, it became clear to Rep. Roby that Donald Trump was unacceptable as a presidential candidate and that the best thing for the party and the country would be for him to step aside and allow Mike Pence to lead the Republican ticket to victory. Politics aside, Rep. Roby is also a mother of two children. She has said that she cannot support a candidate for president who demonstrates such a pattern of abuse and disrespect towards women.
(Question) How have your constituents reacted to this announcement in the days after you made it? Was this reaction expected?
(Answer) There has been pretty significant reaction, some positive and some negative. Many have reached out to express gratitude for her speaking out for what’s right. Of course, others don’t see it that way. Some have misconstrued her decision in a way that would make it seem like she somehow supports Hillary Clinton. That couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, it is precisely because she wants to defeat Hillary Clinton that she spoke out when she did in hopes of Trump doing what’s best for the party.
As she has traveled around and met with constituents this week, most have come to understand that she was simply being open and honest about her views, not campaigning against Trump or trying to tell others how to vote. In fact, she has turned down more than 100 media appearances just because she doesn’t want to appear to be telling others how to vote. Most people can respect that even if they don’t agree.
(Question) If Donald Trump is elected, will your decision not to support him during this last month of the campaign carry over to you not supporting him as President?
(Answer) Of course Rep. Roby would work with him as president. No matter who is in the White House, Rep. Roby’s responsibility is to be a strong voice for the people of her district and advocate for the issues that matter.
Rep. Roby is committed to advancing the conservative cause and putting this country back on the right track. We all believe the best way for that to happen is under a Republican president. Whether it is playing offense with a Republican president, or defense with a Democrat, Rep. Roby is going to fight for conservative principles and values.
End of interview.
Has Martha Roby supported President Trump since his election? Look at this, from
, Roby was expected to vote 93.5% of the time with Trump but actually voted 96.5% with the president. Maybe that is why we recently saw this tweet from President Trump endorsing Rep. Roby for a 5th term:
Congresswoman Martha Roby of Alabama has been a consistent and reliable vote for our Make America Great Again Agenda. She is in a Republican Primary run-off against a recent Nancy Pelosi voting Democrat. I fully endorse Martha for Alabama 2nd Congressional District!
Montgomery, AL – Tabitha Isner, pastor’s wife and foster-adoptive mom, won the Democratic nomination for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District on June 5, 2018. On the Republican side, incumbent Martha Roby was forced into a runoff with previous seat holder, Bobby Bright.
Because this race is expected to be competitive, Isner challenged both Bright and Roby to publicly declare their willingness to participate in a debate after the run-off election. As they case their run-off ballots, Republican voters deserve to know which of the two Republican candidates would debate. Thus far, neither Bright nor Roby has agreed to debate.
“The people of this district deserve more than 30-second TV ads. They deserve an open and honest policy debate where they can see their candidates side by side, see how they think on their feet, and hear their answers to pressing questions. Without that, how can voters cast an informed vote on November 6th?” Isner said. “Debates are an important way for constituents to get past the fake claims and inflammatory rhetoric used by career politicians. Refusing to debate is yet another example of how career politicians ignore their constituents and cater instead to special interests.”
Roby, who has held the seat since 2010 has not had a town hall meeting since 2013. Her absence from the district along with her lacking constituent services has made Roby unpopular in this district.
The Republican run-off is scheduled for July 17, 2018. Isner will continue to push for public discourse in this race in order to create true democratic conversation in Alabama.
The former Alabama Chief Justice says Hobson’s integrity and proven leadership makes him ready to tackle tough problems in Congress.
Press release verbatim from Rich Hobson for Congress
Montgomery, Ala. — Today, the Rich Hobson for Congress Campaign announced the endorsement of former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore. Hobson, who worked for Judge Moore for nearly two decades, is running for Alabama’s second district seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“I have known Rich Hobson for over 25 years and know his reputation for honesty, integrity, and devotion to duty is above reproach,” said Moore. “He has the experience, wisdom, and ability to tackle tough problems and resolve them expeditiously, which will serve the people of Alabama well in the United States Congress.
“Rich is a husband, father, and grandfather who will fight to preserve the United States Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. Rich Hobson is a proven leader who will stand up to liberal voices in Congress who seek to disparage our history and destroy the values that have made this country great.”
Moore served as Chief Justice of Alabama from 2000 to 2003 and from 2013 to 2016. Twice, he was removed from that office for refusing to remove a monument to the Ten Commandments from the Alabama Judicial Building that acknowledged the sovereignty of God and for upholding the sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman. He is a graduate of the United States Military Academy and the University of Alabama School of Law.
Hobson served as the Administrative Director of the Office of Courts during both of Moore’s terms as Chief Justice, also losing his job for refusing to sacrifice his principles. He also served as Executive Director of the Foundation for Moral Law, which Moore founded.
“It has been an honor for me to work under Judge Moore’s leadership for much of my career, and I am honored that he is standing with me now,” said Hobson. “The rock solid convictions and values that he has upheld in the fact of relentless opposition have earned him the respect of men and women of integrity across our state and nation. He certainly has my respect, and I am grateful for his support.”
Leading Democratic candidate in AL-02, Tabitha Isner, thanks the Alabama New South Coalition for their endorsement
Montgomery, AL – Tabitha Isner, leading democratic candidate for U.S. Congress in Alabama’s 2nd congressional district has been endorsed by the Alabama New South Coalition. The Alabama New South Coalition is an organization based in Montgomery, AL, that works to organize the community, educate voters, develop both youth and leaders, and encourage progressive legislation in the state. Each year, New South screens candidates and endorses those who they feel will best represent the people of Alabama.
This is only the beginning of change in Alabama. Democrats are on a roll in 2018, and that trend may continue in Alabama. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has identified 30 seats currently held by Republicans that they hope to flip, and Alabama’s 2nd Congressional district is one of the 30. Tabitha Isner, a pastor’s wife and early childhood policy expert, has taken a clear lead in this crowded race. Although a first-time candidate, she has raised more money than any of Rep. Roby’s other challengers. (Bobby Bright appears to have more money, but the vast majority of his funds are in the form of a personal loan to the campaign.) She has also opened campaign offices in both Montgomery and Dothan.
“It is so important that we all work together for a better future for our state.” Isner said. “The New South Coalition does incredible work to organize the community and work for lasting change for all. I am honored to carry their endorsement during this election cycle and will honor their concerns and hopes after I take office.”
If you would like to read more about Tabitha Isner, please visit www.tabithaisner.com. To get involved with the campaign, call Laura at 334-796-0706.
Montgomery, Ala. — Today, the Rich Hobson for Congress Campaign announced the endorsement of the Wiregrass Round Table, a grassroots organization committed to a return to the Constitution and traditional values. Hobson is running for Alabama’s District 2 seat in the United States House of Representatives.
“The Wiregrass Round Table and I share a common commitment to fighting any effort to erode our Constitutional values,” said Hobson. “I really appreciate their engagement with these important issues, and I’m honored to have their support.”
In the announcement of its endorsement, the Wiregrass Round Table said that Hobson “will fight best for Alabama families, their values, faith, jobs, and, most importantly, their children. We need men who will not compromise, and we must drain the swamp.”
Hobson has had a long and successful career with the Alabama state court system, twice serving as its director, and an extensive record of leadership and service as a strong Christian conservative leader. He recently served as Campaign Manager for the Judge Roy Moore for U.S. Senate Campaign. He is running with a committed focus on three key policy areas: rebuilding our military, putting America on a path to permanent prosperity, and reminding Americans that our Judeo-Christian values are what made our nation great.
The Republican primary election is scheduled for June 5.
This is a verbatim press release from Rich Hobson for Congress.
Montgomery, Ala. — Today, the Rich Hobson for Congress Campaign announced conservative leader Becky Gerritson as the head of Women for Hobson. Gerritson, who challenged District 2 incumbent Martha Roby in 2016, is the founder and president of the Wetumpka Tea Party.
“Throughout his career, Rich Hobson has distinguished himself as a true conservative,” said Gerritson. “I was proud to be with him when he announced his candidacy, and I am proud to stand with him now, heading up the campaign’s efforts to mobilize women to vote for a candidate who believes in our shared traditional values and in protecting our constitutional rights. It’s imperative that we send someone to Congress who puts service before self, and I look forward to working to get the word out to women across the district that that’s exactly what Rich Hobson will do.”
In addition to the leadership she provides to the Wetumpka Tea Party, which she and her husband founded in 2009, Gerritson has testified before Congress twice regarding abuse of power in the Internal Revenue Service. She served on the Alabama Constitutional Revision Committee and serves as the Alabama State Coordinator for the Foundation for Liberty and American Greatness. In 2012, in her role as political correspondent for BIG Voices Media she interviewed notable conservative leaders from across the country.
“Becky has been on the front lines of the fight to restore conservative values to our government and our culture for years,” said Hobson. “I’m proud to have her on our team, and I’m confident her leadership will play a key part in our efforts to take our conservative message and values to Washington.”
Hobson has had a long and successful career with the Alabama state court system, having served twice as its director, and has an extensive record of leadership and service as a strong Christian conservative leader. He recently served as campaign manager for the Judge Roy Moore for U.S. Senate Campaign. He is running with a committed focus on three key policy areas: rebuilding our military, putting America on a path to permanent prosperity, and reminding Americans that our Judeo-Christian values are what made our nation great.
The Republican primary election is scheduled for June 5.
Rep. Martha Roby spoke at a meeting of the Troy University College Republicans yesterday at B. Graves in Troy, Alabama. Be sure to monitor this website and @deerstandhill on Facebook and Twitter for current news and political coverage in Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District.
Montgomery, Ala. — Today, the Rich Hobson for Congress Campaign announced that he has signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge, which confirms a candidate’s commitment to vote against any and all new taxes once elected. Hobson is running for Alabama’s District 2 seat in the United States House of Representatives.
“I’m thrilled to put my commitment to the residents of Alabama’s Second District in writing,” said Hobson. “It is my long-held belief that new and higher taxes are never the best way to grow our economy and create new jobs. Higher taxes and more regulations are penalties on hard work and success. Washington’s tax-and-spend habit must be broken, and I plan to look for ways to honor American taxpayers rather than placing a heavier burden on them.”
The Taxpayer Protection Pledge is promoted and monitored by Americans for Tax Reform. Since its introduction in 1986, more than 1,400 state and federal elected officials have signed the Pledge.
I had the opportunity to speak with Tabitha Isner today for a few minutes. She discussed her background, stance on the issues, and her campaign for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District. Like us on Facebook and Twitter @deerstandhill.
Below are speeches given by three candidates running for office in 2018. They spoke to the Pike County Republican Women at the Troy Country Club in Troy, Alabama on January 24th, 2018. Like and follow Deer Stand Hill (@deerstandhill) on social media and subscribe on YouTube! Stay informed!
This post is a verbatim press release from the Rich Hobson for Congress Campaign.
Montgomery, Ala. — Earlier today, congressional candidate Rich Hobson made the statement below regarding the federal government shutdown. Hobson, a Republican, is running in Alabama’s Second District.
“While we’re thankful the government shutdown has been averted temporarily, the problem shows the twin failures of runaway spending and runaway thirst for power in Washington. There is no way around the fact that our so-called leaders in Washington continually let us down, and it is past time for serious spending cuts and a return to the vision for limited government our founders laid out in the Constitution. The American people, especially our brave men and women in uniform, deserve better than what they’re getting, and I intend to fight relentlessly for them in Congress.
“The sticking point–border security and illegal aliens–is also part of the long-term solution as illegal aliens cost us over $113 billion per year. Instead of band-aid solutions, we need to rein in our $21 trillion of debt and live within our means—just like the hard-working families of Alabama do every day.”
I spoke with State Representative Barry Moore today. We had a candid conversation about his campaign for U.S. Congress, his politics and more. Please subscribe to this channel and follow Deer Stand Hill on social media.
I spoke with Tommy Amason, candidate for Congress in Alabama (AL-D2.) He talks about how his military background and leadership experience make him a good choice to serve us in Washington.
I had the opportunity to speak with Rich Hobson recently. Rich is the former campaign manager for Judge Roy Moore. He is running for the AL-D2 Congressional seat currently held by republican Martha Roby.
Below is a press release from Rich Hobson’s AL-D2 congressional campaign:
Rich Hobson, the GOP candidate for Alabama’s District 2 seat in the U.S. House says the American people deserve better results than career politicians have been delivering.
Montgomery, Ala. — Today, the Rich Hobson Campaign announced that he has signed the U.S. Term Limits Pledge to co-sponsor and support a constitutional amendment to hold members of the U.S. House to three terms and U.S. Senators to two terms. Hobson announced last week that he is running for the U.S. House in Alabama’s Second Congressional District.
“The American people have had enough of business as usual in Washington,” said Hobson. “We can thank career politicians for our exploding national debt and weakened military, and it is long past time for us to return to the Founders’ ideal of citizen legislators. A constitutional amendment to limit congressional terms is a step in the right direction, and I am proud to sign the pledge.”
U.S. Term Limits is a grassroots advocacy group that works to establish term limits at all levels of government. Since its founding in the early 1990s, term limits have been placed on 15 state legislatures and in eight of America’s ten largest cities.