Cape Informer

Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani spoke today in front of a packed room at the Three Oaks Banquet Center in Estero. Approximately 700 supporters and curious information seekers attended.

“Anyone who can clean up New York City can help the country” said Christina Warren, one of Rudy’s supporters. Another attendee, Bob Harrold said “I am curious, I am looking for the right candidate.”

Mayor Jim Humphrey of Fort Myers introduced Florida State Attorney General Bill McCollum, who then Introduced Rudy Giuliani.

Rudy spoke of his record of results and successes in New York City. He pointed out than none of the three democratic candidates had any experience in an executive office. “I don’t think that the Chief Executive Officer of the United States should be trained with on the job experience.” He quipped.

He touted his successes further by explaining that New York City had the highest crime rate in the nation when he took office. As he left office it was named the safest large city in America. His welfare record showed that 1.1 million citizens of the city were on welfare when he took office. There was a reduction of approximately 640,000 welfare recipients after his term.

On fiscal matters, he reminded the crowd that he had cut taxes 23 times, provided balanced annual budgets, and generated higher revenues from 24% lower taxes. He stated “We actually accomplished what people thought was impossible.”

Rudy’s primary focus remains on the war on Terror. “We have to be safe, and we have to win.” He said. He called the reactions of democratic leaders and some members of the press “strategically irresponsible.”

“Have you ever heard of an army being asked to provide their timetable of retreat?” He asked the audience.

On Iran, he stated that if he were elected, his message to Iran is very clear: “I will not allow them to become a nuclear power.”

His second issue of importance was the economy. He referenced President Sarkozy of France, whose recently published book shows an interest in using American principles and placing them as policy in France. He said “There is a wisdom in these quintessential American principles.”

He continued, stating “I mostly look for homegrown principles as a practical matter.” and “Americans solve problems, not the government.”

When discussion turned to Hillary Clinton’s recent “$5,000.00 per child” program, he stated “We don’t have to give kids the impression that money comes from heaven, or from Hillary. It comes from going to school and working hard.”

Next, he received questions from the audience. On immigration, he stated “We must stop immigration at the border first.” He wants to increase the amount of border patrol agents and use fences that are “both physical and technological”.

For legal immigration, he added “We need a tamper proof single ID. If you have one, you are allowed in, you are allowed to work, and you have to pay taxes.”

“After we channel the economic parts through legal channels, we need to make a strong requirement that immigrants read, write and speak English.” this was met with loud applause.

Next he was asked how he stays optimistic in the face of media bias. “It’s fun.” He responded. He explained that he prefers direct communication, and that while he was mayor he held 96 official town hall meetings.

He was asked to explain his position on energy independence. He promoted “energy diversification” as a method. Biofuels, nuclear, clean coal, hydro power, solar power and wind power were all listed. He also stated that higher levels of conservation would help. “There is not one magic solution,” he said.

He also touched briefly on the importance of Florida in the upcoming election, and jokingly encouraged Democrats to boycott the general election for the State as well.

“I like him even better than I did before.” Stated Rochelle Kay of Fort Myers Beach. John Smith of Lehigh Acres asked him a question about gun control after the official session was over, and received an answer. “He supports the second amendment.” John said.

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This entry was posted on Saturday, October 6th, 2007 at 5:06 pm and is filed under Elections. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.