quotes


Governor Mitt Romney Quotes

 

Welcome to the most comprehensive list of Romney quotes on the internet! These are all organized alphabetically. I also am trying to make important words linkable, so that you can click on them are you are reading a quote, and find all the quotes with that word in it...

 

A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z

 


Abortion

“I understand that my views on laws governing abortion set me in the minority in our Commonwealth. I am pro-life.”

 

“For all the conflicting views on this issue, it speaks well of our country that we recognize abortionas a problem. The law may call it a right, but no one ever called it a good, and, in the quiet of conscience people of both political parties know that more than a million abortions a year cannot be squared with the good heart of America.”

 

“Many women considering abortionface terrible pressures, hurts, and fears; we should come to their aid with all the resourcefulness and empathy we can offer. At the same time, the starting point should be the innocence and vulnerability of the child wanting to be born.” –Source: “Why I vetoed the contraception bill” Boston Globe Op-Ed, July 26, 2005

 

“I am firmly pro-life.” –Source: Fox News Sunday (February 26, 2006)

 

 

Abstinence Education

 

“In my service as Governor, I’ve never had anyone complain to me that their kids are not learning enough about sex in school. However, a number of people have asked me why it is that we do not speak more about abstinence as a safe and preventive health practice,” said Romney. “Abstinence education gives young people the support they need in making the decision to postpone sexual activity until they are mature enough to handle the emotional, moral and financial responsibilities of parenthood,” he said. “This is more than teaching kids to say no – it will help them preserve self-esteem and build character.” From a 04-20-2006 Press Release

 

 

AIDS prevention

"In this era of fiscal belt-tightening, we need to ensure that Massachusetts continues to lead the nation on public health issues - from AIDS prevention to bioterrorism preparedness," said Romney Source: 01-16-2003 Press Release

 

 

ANWR

“I think we ought to have more oil. We ought to develop more sources of oil so that we can increase our supply. But the last thing I want to do is suck it all dry as quickly as we can. I want use less of it.” –Source: Interview on Hardball with Chris Matthews (December 2005)

 

 

America

We're in a position where unless we take action, we'll end up being the France of the 21st century: a lot of talk, but not a lot of strength behind it in terms of economic capability.

 

"American values are at the heart of America's historic rise to world leadership. These include, among others, respect for hard work, sacrifice, civility, love of family, respect for life, education and love of freedom." - Governor Mitt Romney

 

 

Boy Scouts

"I have let my views be known," said Romney. "I have been to one board meeting now of the Boy Scouts of America board (as of 1994). I believe that the Boy Scouts of America does a wonderful service for this country. I support the right of the Boy Scouts of America to decide what it wants to do on that issue. I feel that all people should be allowed to participate in the Boy Scouts regardless of their sexual orientation."

 

 

Budgets

“I will present a balanced budget. And in case anybody has any other ideas, let me be clear about one more thing: I will not raise taxes.” Source: 01-15-2004 Press Release

 

"Our problem is simple: spending is high and cash is low. When we began our transition two months ago, every indication was that the current budget was balanced. That is not the case, and immediate, hard action is required to achieve fiscal balance," said Romney.

 

 

Business

“As tough as our problems are, we have enormous potential in Massachusetts—a diverse economy, a highly-educated workforce and major academic and research institutions. We need the right agenda to unleash the power of these resources,” said Romney. Source: 05-08-2003 Press Release

 

“Massachusetts is one of the most attractive states in the nation in which to do business because of our tremendous resources. We have a highly educated workforce, some of the world’s finest health care institutions and top-of-the-line infrastructure,” said Romney. “Now, we need to do a better job of getting the word out.” Source: 06-17-2003 Press Release

 

“Today, we remember and recognize a true entrepreneur,” said Romney. “The establishment of this award will help us show our appreciation to the individuals who contribute to our economy and generate new wealth, prosperity and jobs.” Source: 07-14-2003 Press Release

 

“Each month, we will present this award to an individual who, like Bernie Goldhirsh, uses innovation and drive to grow small ideas into the businesses that make Massachusetts the leader we are.” Source: 07-14-2003 Press Release

 

“Obviously, you faced a choice. You could have remained in Ohio, or moved to any of the other 49 states. Instead, you came to Massachusetts,” Romney told company officials at a welcoming ceremony. “We have the people, the capital and the technology market. But of course, you know all that. That’s why you came here.” Source: 07-18-2003 Press Release

 

“Today, we recognize entrepreneurs from a truly innovative company,” said Romney. “Honoring Zipcar with this award shows our appreciation and value for entrepreneurs who contribute to our economy and generate new wealth, prosperity and jobs.” Source: 08-04-2003 Press Release

 

“We need to make sure we have the best available information about the state of our economy,” said Romney. “The findings from this survey will help us to identify the competitive strengths and weaknesses of each region, which will help guide our efforts to improve the economy so that we can have more jobs.” Source: 08-13-2003 Press Release

 

"The Massachusetts Business Corporation Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act will make it much simpler to conduct private sector transactions in the Commonwealth," said Romney. Source 12-04-2003 Press Release

 

"These bills represent an important piece of housekeeping for the state’s business community, one that will allow our state to keep pace with new technology and other changes taking place in the world," Romney said. Source 12-04-2003 Press Release

 

“We established this award to acknowledge and celebrate some of the state’s most innovative companies as well as to highlight the creative entrepreneurs who are helping to drive economic growth here in the Commonwealth,” said Romney. Source: 12-03-2003 Press Release

 

“The story of Yankee Candle is a reminder that you don’t need to manufacture a cutting edge product to be innovative, exciting and extremely successful,” he added. Source: 12-03-2003 Press Release

 

"Our economic policies are contributing to the improvement in the Massachusetts employment picture, but we still have more work to do. Holding the line on taxes and creating a business-friendly environment will continue to be among our highest priorities,” Romney said. Source: 05-27-2004 Press Release

 

Romney said Straumann is the kind of innovative technology company that his economic development team is committed to attracting to Massachusetts. “The opening of Straumann’s new $50 million North American headquarters in Andover will bring 160 new manufacturing jobs to the Bay State right away and more than 300 over the next five years,” he said. Source: 05-27-2004 Press Release

 

“High health insurance costs are making it impossible for our small business owners to provide a reasonably priced healthcare plan to their workers,” said Romney, meeting with Rick and Linda DeWolfe, who own DeWolfe and Sons Auto Repair. Source: 04-12-2005 Press Release

 

“We are committed to developing an affordable product for small business owners who want to do the right thing by their employees, but can’t keep up with the cost,” Romney added. Source: 04-12-2005 Press Release

 

“Small business is one of the backbones of our economy. It’s through the initiative and drive of people like Fred Curtis that we are creating jobs and opportunity in Massachusetts,” said Romney. From a 04-26-2005 Press Release

 

“Permitting can take up to five years to complete, making it extremely difficult for businesses here to expand and add jobs,” said Romney. “If we’re serious about encouraging business investment and expansion, we have to take a chainsaw to the red tape that ties up the process for years and years.” From a 06-16-2005 Press Release

 

“Grab your popcorn and soda, because Massachusetts is ready for its close-up,” said Romney. “Movie and television production has increased dramatically over the past 10 years and we want to get a piece of that growth by encouraging producers, directors, and crews to do their jobs right here in the Commonwealth.” From a 11-23-2005a Press Release

 

 

Charter Schools

“Charter schools embrace innovative educational practices that encourage competition and hold teachers and administrators accountable for the academic achievement of their students. Choice within the Massachusetts public school system should be available to all parents, particularly those with children in our low-performing districts.” –Source: press release (May 2005)

 

China

"I'm not happy exporting jobs but we must move ahead in technology and patents. I don't like losing any jobs but we'll see new opportunities created selling products there. We'll have a net net increase in economic activity, just as we did with free trade," Romney said. "It's tempting to want to protect our markets and stay closed. But at some point it all comes crashing down and you're hopelessly left behind. Then you are Russia."

 

"China and India have huge populations. There's no reason why they can't emerge as an economic and military superpower in 100 years," the Governor said. "We need to be at the leading edge of technology.

 

"There's a common misperception that we do all the innovation and send off the grunt work to people offshore, that somehow American technology does all the high-end work and we send out routine drafting elsewhere," Romney said. "We have the perception we're the best and the brightest but we didn't score as well as others in some studies.

 

"We know this market but when our market is no longer the target market in the world, when India and China surpass us, the idea that we'll be innovating and they'll be copying is not an accurate perception," the Governor added.

 

 

Democrats

In Massachusetts, code orange means John Kerry just got out of the tanning salon.

 

Crime

“Drunk drivers endanger the lives of innocent people, and that needs to stop. We need a per se law because it will save lives and reduce the incidence of people driving drunk,” said Romney. Source: 05-06-2003 Press Release

 

“As the only state in the nation without a per se law, Massachusetts is poised to lose millions of dollars in federal highway funding,” said Romney. “At a time of fiscal crisis, we can’t afford to sacrifice any federal dollars that we could be putting to good use here in Massachusetts.” Source: 05-06-2003 Press Release

 

“For far too long, the subjects of domestic abuse and sexual assault remained behind closed doors and out of the public eye,” said Romney. “Lieutenant Governor Healey and I are 100 percent committed to dealing forcefully and swiftly with criminals who choose to engage in these horrific acts against society.” Source: 05-07-2003 Press Release

 

“Families in Massachusetts have the right to know where sex offenders live and work so they can protect their children,” said Romney. “Posting the information on the Internet will allow people to easily access the most up-to-date information in their own homes.” Source: 06-06-2003 Press Release

 

“Today, Massachusetts has a tough, new drunk driving law on the books,” Romney said. “Sadly, for many years, we were the only state without a per se statute. Now, we can proudly take our place with the rest of the nation.” Source: 07-03-2003 Press Release

 

“Public safety is the single most important job of government,” said Romney. “Once the photos of sex offenders are on the Internet individuals will have vital information necessary to protect their families at their finger tips. Families have the right to know if sexual predators are living or working in their neighborhoods.” Source: 11-24-2003 Press Release

 

“All of us have a responsibility to protect children from harm. Under this legislation, if anyone were to turn a blind eye to sexual abuse of children, they will be punished,” said Romney. Source: 01-08-2004 Press Release

 

“Stun guns have proven time and time again when used by law enforcement officers in other states that they are an effective tool in stopping suspects,” said Romney. “It is high time for our men and women in blue to utilize this modern crime fighting technology.” Source: 07-15-2004 Press Release

 

“Today marks a significant move towards reforming our correctional system,” said Romney. “For too long, our system of corrections has operated in the shadows of government, with very little oversight and accountability. It’s time to shine a light on how we can better improve the management of our prisons.” Source: 09-15-2004 Press Release

 

He added, “Make no mistake: criminals will be punished. They will do their time. But we will make sure their sentences are carried out with the decency and respect they never showed their victims. This is what you would expect from a professionally-run Department of Correction.” Source: 09-15-2004 Press Release

 

“We are sending a clear message to the people of the Commonwealth: We are committed to protecting communities from dangerous sexual predators,” said Romney. “While these high-risk offenders are under state supervision, we will have the capability to closely monitor their every move.” Source: 09-20-2004 Press Release

 

“Nothing troubles me more than watching a child’s future shatter in a blast of violence,” said Romney. “Our call for action will give law enforcement officials additional resources to protect the lives of our children and their families.” Source: 10-01-2004 Press Release

 

“Our criminal justice and public safety professionals now have a real tool to protect those who join with us to take a stand against crime and violence in our communities,” Romney said during the ceremony at St. Peter’s School, which specializes in youth programs that have shown great success in keeping students out of gangs and connecting them to their community. “Witnesses who have the courage to come forward and testify should not have to live in fear for cooperating with prosecutors to keep their communities safe.” Source: Press Release

 

“In the past, efforts to reinstate the death penalty in Massachusetts have failed. They have failed because of concerns that it would be too broadly applied or that evidentiary standards weren’t high enough or proper safeguards weren’t in place. We have answered all those concerns with this bill,” said Romney. Source: 04-28-2005 Press Release

 

“Two years ago, Melanie Powell went out for a walk with her friends and never came back. Her life was taken by a repeat drunk driver. We can’t bring Melanie back, but we can do everything in our power to prevent this kind of tragedy from occurring again,” said Romney. Source: 05-27-2005 Press Release

 

“The reality of forensic analysis may not be as flashy as it is on television, but there is no question it is becoming more and more important to crime solving,” said Romney. “Investing in a state of the art facility is essential to our efforts to fight crime in Massachusetts.” Source: 08-24-2005 Press Release

 

“Whether it’s 4 A.M. on Christmas Eve or 4 P.M. on a Saturday in August when they’d rather be taking their families to the beach, our State Police force is on duty every hour of every day, dedicated to keeping the public safe,” said Romney. “These initiatives reflect the importance of their jobs and the value of their service to the Commonwealth.” Source: 08-25-2005 Press Release

 

"We’re going into overdrive this Labor Day to keep the roads safe here in Massachusetts," said Romney. "The bottom line is: ‘You Booze. You Cruise. You Lose.’" Source: 08-31-2005 Press Release

 

“Letting drunks get behind the wheel of a two ton automobile is no different from handing them a loaded gun and setting them loose on the streets,” said Romney. “While the legislation that came to my desk last week contains several good provisions, it does not go far enough. I believe we can do better.” Source: 10-26-2005 Press Release

 

“Massachusetts law enforcement shouldn’t be working blindfolded,” said Romney. “By joining the compact, our law enforcement personnel will have the information they need to keep our communities safe from criminals who move to the Commonwealth.” Source: 10-27-2005 Press Release

 

“Today we honor those who have lost their lives in senseless drunk driving tragedies and act to save the lives we could otherwise lose next year,” said Romney. “We have Melanie’s Law today because the citizens of the Commonwealth cared enough to make it happen.” Source: 10-28-2005 Press Release

 

“Gang violence destroys the fabric of our communities and offers nothing but a dead end street to young people drawn in by false hope,” said Romney. “This program will encourage communities to develop and pursue promising new strategies that stop the mayhem and bloodshed that gangs inflict.” Source: 12-22-2005 Press Release

 

“Our criminal justice and public safety professionals now have a real tool to protect those who join with us to take a stand against crime and violence in our communities,” Romney said during the ceremony at St. Peter’s School, which specializes in youth programs that have shown great success in keeping students out of gangs and connecting them to their community. “Witnesses who have the courage to come forward and testify should not have to live in fear for cooperating with prosecutors to keep their communities safe.” Source: 03-30-2006 Press Release

 

“Victims of rape or sexual assault have the right to know if their attacker is carrying HIV or any other sexually transmitted disease,” said Romney. “After such a devastating attack, they at least deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing whether or not they are at an increased health risk.” Source: 01-05-2006 Press Release

 

 

Education

Kids in our urban schools, most of them minorities, are not succeeding at anywhere near the rate of their counterparts in the suburbs. And let me be clear: the failure of our urban schools to prepare our children today for the challenges of tomorrow is the civil rights issue of our generation.

Massachusetts children cannot only lead the nation in test scores, they can be competitive with the best in the world. And the gap in achievement among races can virtually disappear.

 

Death Penalty

“Just as science can be used to free the innocent, it can be used to identify the guilty,” said Romney. Source: 09- 23-2003 Press Release

 

 

Disabled

“I am very pleased to sign legislation that will help the disabled community to influence policy and advocate for greater accessibility within public transportation,” said Governor Romney. - Governor Mitt Romney, 09-07-2006 Press Release

 

 

“Members of the disabled community are heavily reliant on public transportation to function in their day-to-day lives,” said Mrs. Romney, who lobbied legislative leadership to enact the bill. “For this reason, it is especially important for them to be able to take part in RTA meetings and make their voices heard if issues of concern arise.”

 

 

Diversity

“My Administration is committed to assembling a state government workforce that reflects the fabric of our community,” Romney said. “We will work hard to ensure that our Administration recruits and retains talented individuals from all backgrounds at every level of government.” Source: 06- 17-2003 Press Release

 

Romney thanked the members of the council, from both the public and private sectors, for serving his Administration in this important role. “With the help of the council members, my Administration will work hard to foster a culture of inclusion that values diversity. We want Massachusetts to be recognized as a great place for people from all backgrounds to work and raise a family.” Source: 09-26-2003 Press Release

 

"One of the hallmarks of good government is making sure that everyone has a seat at the table. In this administration, diversity’s not a slogan - it’s a fact," said Romney.

 

Speaking of the education provided to minority students, Romney said, "I really believe that the failure of our urban schools and, in some cases our suburban schools, to help minority students achieve the levels that are necessary for success in the workplace is the civil rights issue of our time." Source: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,175714,00.html

 

 

Drunk Driving

Here are the quotes I found about Drunk Driving from Governor Mitt Romney. Please help me find other ones. I think every victim of repeat offending drunk drivers would want to support Governor Mitt Romney for president in 2008. I think members of Mothers, students, and recording artist against Drunk Driving should all examine his record.

 

“Drunk drivers endanger the lives of innocent people, and that needs to stop. We need a per se law because it will save lives and reduce the incidence of people driving drunk,” said Romney. Source: 05-06-2003 Press Release

 

“As the only state in the nation without a per se law, Massachusetts is poised to lose millions of dollars in federal highway funding,” said Romney. “At a time of fiscal crisis, we can’t afford to sacrifice any federal dollars that we could be putting to good use here in Massachusetts.” Source: 05-06-2003 Press Release

 

“Today, Massachusetts has a tough, new drunk driving law on the books,” Romney said. “Sadly, for many years, we were the only state without a per se statute. Now, we can proudly take our place with the rest of the nation.” Source: 07-03-2003 Press Release

 

“Stun guns have proven time and time again when used by law enforcement officers in other states that they are an effective tool in stopping suspects,” said Romney. “It is high time for our men and women in blue to utilize this modern crime fighting technology.” Source: 07-15-2004 Press Release

 

“Two years ago, Melanie Powell went out for a walk with her friends and never came back. Her life was taken by a repeat drunk driver. We can’t bring Melanie back, but we can do everything in our power to prevent this kind of tragedy from occurring again,” said Romney. Source: 05-27-2005 Press Release

 

"We’re going into overdrive this Labor Day to keep the roads safe here in Massachusetts," said Romney. "The bottom line is: ‘You Booze. You Cruise. You Lose.’" Source: 08-31-2005 Press Release

 

“Letting drunks get behind the wheel of a two ton automobile is no different from handing them a loaded gun and setting them loose on the streets,” said Romney. “While the legislation that came to my desk last week contains several good provisions, it does not go far enough. I believe we can do better.” Source: 10-26-2005 Press Release

 

“Today we honor those who have lost their lives in senseless drunk driving tragedies and act to save the lives we could otherwise lose next year,” said Romney. “We have Melanie’s Law today because the citizens of the Commonwealth cared enough to make it happen.” Source: 10-28-2005 Press Release

 

 

Family

America cannot continue to lead the family of nations around the world if we suffer the collapse of the family here at home.

 

"Experience shows that kids have a far better chance of succeeding if they have a mother and a father at home. Of course, divorce or death means that there will always be many, many single parents; these single parents often make huge sacrifices and their kids can indeed succeed. But let’s do everything we can to encourage our kids to have their kids after they’ve married, not while they’re single and in school. We have sex education in our schools. Let’s also have abstinence education in our schools. Marriage and two parent families are fundamental to the development of children and to our success as a culture. We cannot afford to shrink from the timeless, priceless principles of human experience." Mitt Romney

 

“We can praise the virtues of parental involvement all day, but until we actually get parents to follow through we are simply singing to an empty music hall,” said Romney. “Voluntary programs will not get the job done. It is essential that mandatory training be put in place.” - Source: 01-21-2004 Press Release

 

 

Government Inefficiency

“Government inefficiency wastes resources and places a burden on citizens and employers that’s harmful to our future. And anytime I see waste, or patronage, it bothers me.” –Source: The Atlantic (September 2005)

 

 

Gangs

“Gang violence destroys the fabric of our communities and offers nothing but a dead end street to young people drawn in by false hope,” said Romney. “This program will encourage communities to develop and pursue promising new strategies that stop the mayhem and bloodshed that gangs inflict.”

 

“Our criminal justice and public safety professionals now have a real tool to protect those who join with us to take a stand against crime and violence in our communities,” Romney said during the ceremony at St. Peter’s School, which specializes in youth programs that have shown great success in keeping students out of gangs and connecting them to their community. “Witnesses who have the courage to come forward and testify should not have to live in fear for cooperating with prosecutors to keep their communities safe.”

 

“Nothing troubles me more than watching a child’s future shatter in a blast of violence,” said Romney. “Our call for action will give law enforcement officials additional resources to protect the lives of our children and their families.”

 

 

Homelessness

“State government’s current system of coordinating homeless services is best described as a patchwork approach to the problem,” said Romney. He added, “The responsibility for administering the systems and programs that address homeless families and individuals is scattered throughout state government. There is an insufficient level of coordination resulting in a rising number of homeless people slipping through the cracks. We can do better.” Source: 02-14-2003 Press Release

 

 

Marriage

I feel very deeply about the need to respect and tolerate people of different social-or sexual orientation. But at the same time, I believe marriage should be preserved as an institution for one man and one woman.

The people of Massachusetts should not be excluded from a decision as fundamental to our society as the definition of marriage.

 

 

 

 

Housing

“If Massachusetts is to remain economically strong and competitive, it must have more housing that is affordable to those across a broad range of incomes,” said Romney. “This local aid incentive will provide communities with additional funds to offset infrastructure and education expenses associated with a growing population.” Source: 03-11-2003 Press Release

 

“The Boston State Hospital project is a model of our smart growth strategy for future development of thousands of acres of state surplus land across the Commonwealth,” said Romney. “Building more affordable housing like this project is one of the key elements necessary to jumpstart the Massachusetts economy.” Source: 05-22-2003 Press Release

 

“This significant commitment of state and federal resources, along with millions of private investment dollars generated through the sale of tax credits, will increase the availability of housing for thousands of Massachusetts families,” said Romney. “Through this blend of resources, we can help ease our housing supply shortage while ensuring long-term, economic prosperity for our state.” Source: 06- 06-2003 Press Release

 

“This new law will allow MassHousing to finance mixed-income homes without interruption,” said Romney. “We must work harder, and be smarter, to increase the state's housing supply and have it affordable to those across a broad range of incomes.” Source: 07-23-2003 Press Release

 

“Since my Administration’s inception nearly one year ago, I have focused on the need to create more housing and smart growth policies that will allow us to expand housing without contributing to sprawl,” Romney said. He added, “This project is a perfect example of the type of new housing we should create in our developed urban centers close to all the services that make possible a desirable quality of life.” Source: 12-12-2003 Press Release

 

"Each year, we spend more than a quarter billion dollars each year to care for our homeless in the Commonwealth, but we need to focus more on long-term solutions by producing permanent housing opportunities for our citizens," said Romney. Romney added, "Today's awards will not only give a much needed boost to the state's overall affordable housing supply, but it will also go a long way in preventing future homelessness because nearly 20 percent of those units will be targeted to low-income individuals and families." Source: 12-05-2003 Press Release

 

“Our housing supply shortage is often cited as the number one barrier to business growth and job creation in Massachusetts and we are working overtime to build more housing” said Romney. “That is why my recently announced ‘Jobs First’ program includes additional local aid incentives for increased housing production and also proposes rewards for communities with state-owned surplus property to take action to spur residential development.” Source: 10-01-2003 Press Release

 

“This financial commitment represents an important blend of public resources which will leverage millions of private dollars and help ease the state’s current housing supply shortage,” said Romney. “In doing so, it will also serve as an investment in the future of our economic well being by making Massachusetts an attractive state in which to work and live.” Source: 08-25-2003 Press Release

 

“We are on a mission to double housing starts in Massachusetts and this is one approach to help get us there without spending new taxpayer dollars,” said Romney. “These new resources are critical at a time when public funds are limited, but the need for new housing is enormous.” Sourece: 01-26-2004 Press Release

 

“We need to give seniors the help they need to stay in their homes as long as possible. With a little help, we can keep seniors in their own home instead of putting them into what for many turns out to be an inappropriate institutionalized setting,” said Romney. He added, “Our goal is to help meet the needs of our elders as they define them, not as a government bureaucracy defines them.” Source: 02-18-2004 Press Release

 

“We want to make it easier for more families in Massachusetts to realize the American dream of buying their own home,” said Governor Romney. “The commitment of these funds from the Bush Administration not only represent downpayments for new homes, they also represent an investment towards a prosperous future for the families of our Commonwealth.” Source: 11-12-2004 Press Release

 

“The Village at Marstons Mills represents a down payment on a more affordable future for Barnstable County,” Romney said. “High-quality, affordable housing is just as important as top-notch schools, good jobs, a first-class infrastructure and safe neighborhoods. My Administration is working overtime to create additional housing opportunities for families across a broad range of incomes.” Sourece: 10-21-2004 Press Release

 

“The rising cost of housing has kept the dream of owning a home out of reach for too many families in Massachusetts,” said Governor Mitt Romney. “It is important that we continue to target our state resources into programs which bridge that financial gap and increase affordable homeownership opportunities for families throughout the Commonwealth.” Source : 03- 31-2004 Press Release

 

“Fair and affordable housing should be a right, not a privilege,” said Romney, addressing a meeting of the Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations. “With the help of this newly formed committee, we will make that right a reality and ensure a vibrant and diverse Commonwealth for years to come.” Source : 03-08-2004 Press Release

 

“All hard-working families in the Commonwealth deserve a chance to be homeowners, but that has become increasingly difficult for many because we have some of the highest high housing costs in the nation,” said Romney. “To alleviate that problem, I have pledged to increase our housing supply by doubling the number of housing starts in Massachusetts so that there are more affordable homes available to those across a broad range of incomes,” he added. Source: 03-21-2005 Press Release

 

“We need to build more housing to keep our state economically competitive. This bill acknowledges community costs that may be associated with increased housing production,” said Romney. Source: 11-23-2005- Press Release

 

 

Guns

“Deadly assault weapons have no place in Massachusetts,” Romney said, at a bill signing ceremony with legislators, sportsmen’s groups and gun safety advocates. “These guns are not made for recreation or self-defense. They are instruments of destruction with the sole purpose of hunting down and killing people.” Source: 07-01-2004 Press Release

 

 

Teachers

 

Health Care

"In this era of fiscal belt-tightening, we need to ensure that Massachusetts continues to lead the nation on public health issues - from AIDS prevention to bioterrorism preparedness," said Romney . "I am confident that Christy is the right person to help lead this effort." Source: 01-16-2003 Press Release

 

“Seniors in Massachusetts and across the nation are facing skyrocketing prescription drug costs,” Romney said. “I have instructed my health care team to develop a discount program to ease the burden on all of our senior citizens.” Source: 02-21-2003 Press Release “Massachusetts is one of the most generous states in the nation. But we will only be as generous as we can afford to be,” Romney said. “Prescription Advantage now costs roughly $100 million a year to administer and our budget is strained to the breaking point. If Washington doesn’t pass the waiver we are requesting, fiscal reality will require us to end the program.” Source: 02-21-2003 Press Release

 

“Under Operation Liberty Shield, we continue to implement increased protective measures,” said Romney. “As this process unfolds, I want to reassure the people of Massachusetts that their protection and the safety of their families is our highest priority.” Source: 03-19-2003 Press Release

 

“While we all appreciate the dedication of our public work force, we can no longer expect the taxpayers to pay for health care benefits for state employees that are more generous than what they receive in the private sector,” said Romney. Source: 04-14-2003 Press Release “With winter coming, flu season is fast approaching,” said Romney. “We want to make sure that everyone in Massachusetts who wants a flu shot can get one. The creation of this vaccine trust fund will allow us to do that by partnering with private sector health care providers in order to ensure a steady flu vaccine supply.” Source: 09-29-2003 Press Release

 

“The first crucial task for the legal and medical professionals on this commission is to recommend top-notch candidates for the state’s Chief Medical Examiner,” Romney said. Source: 01-12-2004 Press Release

 

“The Chief Medical Examiner’s Office has been chronically underfunded for more than a decade,” said Romney. “This additional funding in my budget will allow the office to purchase new lab equipment and make other sorely need upgrades to bring the office into the 21st century.” 01-12-2004 Press Release

 

“Today, we can all breathe a little easier,” said Romney, who was joined at the historic State House bill signing by Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey, members of the Legislature, advocates and children. “Everyone has the right to breathe clean air and be free of secondhand smoke, especially our kids.” Source: 06-18-2004 Press Release

 

“We have a crisis with America’s health,” said Romney. “The best way to address it is by promoting healthy lifestyles that will keep people living longer and more productive lives.” Source: 11-15-2004 Press Release

 

“Massachusetts medical institutions are second to none in delivering world-class care to our citizens,” said Romney, who spoke at Massachusetts General Hospital’s Ether Dome, the site of the first successful use of ether anesthesia more than 150 years ago. He added, “By applying new and innovative technology to patient care, and helping caregivers to adopt it, we will make health care more affordable and offer even higher levels of quality care to our citizens.” Source: 12-06-2004 Press Release

 

“With the small percentage of uninsured in Massachusetts, we are in a unique position to give all of our citizens quality health insurance,” said Romney. “This will not be a government-mandated universal coverage program or a plan that requires new taxes. It will be a market-based reform focused on the creation of affordable insurance plans.” Source: 04-06-2005 Press Release

 

“Because of the high cost of health insurance, some people choose to go without or end up paying more than they can afford,” said Romney. “My proposal will make it easier for small businesses and individuals like Richard Rothstein to purchase affordable and quality health insurance.” Source: 04-07-2005 Press Release

 

“Making this information accessible is an innovative step, and we urge consumers to use the data, talk with their healthcare providers, and seek out additional resources to help them make the right decisions for themselves and their families,” said Romney. Source: 10-18-2005- Press Release

 

“Of all the many hazards we face, a pandemic has the unique potential to disrupt our lives, our health care system and our economy,” Romney said. “We have to make sure Massachusetts is coordinated and equipped to effectively monitor outbreaks, slow the spread of disease, provide care to those who become sick and continue to provide critical government services.” Source: 02-07-2006 Press Release

 

“An achievement like this comes around once in a generation, and it proves that government can work when people of both parties reach across the aisle for the common good,” said Romney. “Today, Massachusetts is leading the way with health insurance for everyone, without a government takeover and without raising taxes.” Source: 04-12-2006 Press Release

 

“Our ability to now insure every Massachusetts citizen is a historic achievement for both the Commonwealth and the nation,” said Romney. “A critical component of our plan is that all residents will have the opportunity to purchase affordable health insurance.” Source: 07-26-2006 Press Release

 

 

Terrorism

How many individuals are coming to our state and going to those institutions who have come from terrorist-sponsored states?...Do we know where they are? Are we tracking them?

How about people who are in settings -- mosques, for instance -- that may be teaching doctrines of hate and terror, Are we monitoring that? Are we wiretapping? Are we following what's going on?

 

Jobs

“Ultimately, the only way for us to get the Commonwealth back on track is to find a job for every citizen who wants one,” said Romney, after a tour of Workforce Central Career Center, which is operated by the Division of Employment and Training in partnership with the Worcester City Manager’s Office of Employment and Training. “Extending the hours of operation for all of the One-Stops will help us achieve that goal – one person and one job at a time.” Source: 06-11-2003 Press Release

 

“I’m not going to rest until we put Massachusetts back to work,” said Romney, at a Logan Airport news conference announcing the “Jobs First” initiative. Taken from a 06-24-2003 Press Release

 

“I am thrilled about Cisco’s expansion in Massachusetts. As the state’s number one salesman, I am going to pursue companies up and down both coasts to encourage them to grow jobs in Massachusetts,” said Romney, attending the grand opening for the new Cisco facility. “This new site finder will add to our efforts to get the Massachusetts economy back on track.” Source: 06-27-2003 Press Release

 

“In the past, state government has had a poorly coordinated approach to identifying our strengths and weaknesses, and as a result, our public policy has been clumsy in terms of maximizing our overall growth potential,” said Romney. He added, “These Regional Competitiveness Councils will provide us with the information we need to boost regional growth and bring more jobs to the state.” Source: 02-13-2003 Press Releases

 

“I am committed to putting Massachusetts back to work,” Romney said. “As difficult as our challenges are, we have enormous potential – a diverse economy, a highly educated workforce and major academic and research institutions.” “But we can only be successful by working together, all of us, Democrats and Republicans, business and labor, to create an environment that allows job growth and development to take place,” he said. Source: 07-16-2003 Press Release

 

“I am committed to putting Massachusetts back to work,” Romney said. “Our goal with this clearinghouse is to increase the amount of credit allocation to Massachusetts organizations and projects, so we can begin to attract and direct resources to qualifying communities whose reinvestment is an important pathway to entrepreneurship, community life and above all, jobs.” Source: 07-24-2003 Press Release

 

“These grants are an investment in the future of our workforce. Learning does not begin and end in the classroom – it extends to the factory floor and the boardroom,” said Romney, who made the announcement at Micro Networks Corporation, which received a $128,198 grant. He added, “These grants, which will train people in management leadership, problem solving, high tech and manufacturing, are just one more way that the Commonwealth is working in partnership with the private sector to ensure more and better jobs for the future.” Source: 08-05-2003 Press Release

 

“This exciting and robust job expansion will reach cities and towns stretching from Fall River to Springfield,” said Romney. “Over the long-term it promises to provide a boost to both the state and local economies.” Source: 08-12-2003 Press Release

 

“You went through a tremendous evaluation process to decide where to consolidate the plant. You analyzed over 30 scenarios and considered many other states. In the end, you decided to stay here in Massachusetts and for that, I salute you,” Romney told company officials during a tour of the facility. Source: 09-23-2003 Press Release

 

“The core of our ‘Jobs First’ initiative is to ensure that every citizen who is in need of a job can get one,” said Romney. “To attract employers and encourage faster growth rates, the Administration has already commissioned the career centers to extend their hours, and now with the events across the state today, we are one step closer to making sure every person who is looking for a job is given the tools to find one.” Source: 09-04-2003 Press Release

 

“All across the Commonwealth, today and every day, the state’s 32 Career Centers are at the front line, providing hope and resources for job seekers such as Cheryl Tate,” said Romney. “I will not be satisfied until we get many more citizens back to work. Through the state’s one-stop career centers, we will work to accomplish this one person and one job at a time.” Source: 09-04-2003 Press Release

 

“The manufacturing facility that you opened today will begin Therion’s next stage of development: the move from research and development into the commercialization of vaccines,” Romney said. He added, “It is a tremendous breakthrough and you could not have chosen a better place to expand.” Source: 09-10-2003 Press Release

 

“Businesses start up and find a home in Massachusetts because of the opportunities our Commonwealth provides to workers and employers,” Romney said. “Our highly skilled workforce is one of our most competitive advantages and in order to maintain this workforce, we must continue to invest in our workers.” “When you think of cranberries, you think of Ocean Spray,” said Romney. “With this grant, workers will be trained to help the company continue to make high-quality cranberry products faster and more cost effectively. And more jobs will come to Southeastern Massachusetts.” Source: 10-17-2003 Press Release

 

“The HIT program is yet another tool we use to invest in our workforce and in our businesses,” said Romney. “Since its inception, the HIT program has succeeded in matching up out of work individuals with good jobs at companies that are looking to grow. We encourage even more businesses to take advantage of the program.” Source: 01-18-2005 Press Release

 

“People want a chance to work so they can build self-sustaining lives instead of relying on a welfare check that will keep them trapped in poverty,” said Romney. “By providing support services and incentives where necessary, we want to give welfare recipients the opportunity to achieve independent and fulfilling lives.” Source: 01-24-2005 Press Release

 

“The welfare policies that Massachusetts instituted in 1995 were ahead of their time. But, the times have changed and we now lag behind the rest of the nation,” said Romney. “To help welfare recipients change their lives for the better, we need to update our laws.” Source: 01-24-2005 Press Release

 

“The Citizens Job Bank will boost economic activity in Massachusetts and help companies grow and thrive,” said Romney. “Holding the line on taxes and maintaining a business-friendly environment are among our highest priorities to ensure that more people will be working.” Source: 02-03-2005 Press Release

 

“The businesses and the jobs that could potentially be created because of this important new law reflect our state’s greatest strength – brainpower,” said Romney. “That’s what we bring to the table and that’s what we need to nurture for future job growth and economic success.” Source: 02-04-2005 Press Release

 

“Our economy is on the move and we are creating thousands of new jobs, but we need to keep our foot on the gas pedal, said Romney. “I am asking the Legislature to join with me in making sure Massachusetts is competitive when it comes to business growth and job creation.” Source: 03-03-2005 Press Release

 

“Bringing new jobs to Massachusetts is a top priority and the partnership with Citizens provides an innovative opportunity for businesses to tap into the state’s public and private resources,” said Romney. “In just two months, the job bank has added hundreds of jobs for our citizens and helped local businesses grow and thrive.” Source: 04-25-2005 Press Release

 

“These funds to train our workforce in cutting edge technologies and workforce efficiencies are absolutely critical to enhancing Massachusetts’ competitive edge,” said Romney, who announced the grants at Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO), which received a $188,000 grant to train 310 employees. Source: 06-15-2005 Press Release

 

“Our challenge now is to start spreading the news. The manufacturing tax credit is good for cutting edge companies, good for job seekers and great for Massachusetts,” Romney said. Source: 08-08-2005 Press Release

 

“This is a no-brainer. If we make it difficult for businesses to grow, we’re not going to have growing businesses,” said Romney. “It’s time to reform the permitting process in Massachusetts so that we can add jobs and chop away at the red tape that keeps good employers from coming to the Commonwealth.” Source: 08-17-2005 Press Release

 

"We need to send a clear message to companies in Massachusetts that we want them to grow and add jobs here," said Romney. "We can’t sit around while other states actively recruit our companies to move away. Aggressive marketing efforts will keep more jobs here and will attract companies that want to move to Massachusetts." Source: 08-22-2005 Press Release

 

“A highly-skilled workforce enables our state to compete and thrive in the global economy, and these workforce training grants will help our companies stay on the cutting-edge,” Romney said during his announcement of the grants at Infinity Pharmaceuticals in Cambridge, one of the 73 grant recipients. Source: 11-09-2005 Press Release

 

“Businesses relocate and expand where they have access to well-trained and educated workers, and there is no better investment Massachusetts can make than to sharpen the skills of our employees,” Romney added. Source: 11-09-2005 Press Release

 

 

Judges

“Right now we have a funding mechanism for the district courts that splits the Commonwealth into two – the Boston Municipal Court and the remaining district courts in the state – and the Boston Municipal Court receives vastly more resources than the other district courts,” said Romney. Source: 05-13-2003 Press Release

 

“While I applaud the Legislature for recognizing the need to reform our court system, I urge them to take a closer look at merging the Boston Municipal Court with the rest of the district court system. It makes sense and it saves millions of dollars. It is time for action, not more studies,” Romney said. Source: 05-13-2003 Press Release

 

“Worcester and other communities are getting shortchanged when it comes to the administration of justice,” Romney said. “That is wrong.” Source: 05-13-2003 Press Release

 

“Clearly, it is time for us to have a uniform and equitable system of justice for all of the Commonwealth’s residents,” said Romney. Source: 05-13-2003 Press Release

 

Romney added, “Our judicial system is in desperate need of overhaul and restructuring. These common sense changes are the first steps in that process.” Source: 05-13-2003 Press Release

 

“The Massachusetts Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to judges as 'free, impartial and independent as the lot of humanity will admit.' Those words were penned by John Adams, and they are the basis not only for our state courts, but for the federal judiciary as prescribed by the U.S. Constitution,” said Romney. Source: 02-11-2003 Press Release

 

He added, “It is time to renew our commitment to those words. Massachusetts was a trailblazer for judicial integrity in John Adams' day and it can be a trailblazer for the same integrity in our day as well.” Source: 02-11-2003 Press Release

 

“It is my aim today with this Executive Order to shine a spotlight on the way judges are appointed to the bench,” said Romney. “The citizens of Massachusetts deserve to have a squeaky clean process that has no room for politics and favors.” Source: 02-11-2003 Press Release

 

“I am proud to submit the names of these outstanding individuals for consideration by the Governor’s Council,” Romney said. Source: 12- 03-2003 Press Release

 

He added, “For the last several months, we have successfully focused on reforming the old way of appointing judges and replaced it with a non-partisan and merit-based process. This new system – free from patronage, politics and favoritism – has yielded the highest caliber individuals for these positions.” Source: 12- 03-2003 Press Release

 

“As I was making this appointment, prosecutorial qualifications and public safety were paramount in my mind,” Romney said. “But, it was also my goal to provide continuity so as not to jeopardize ongoing prosecutions in the office. David Capeless’s familiarity with the office and its demands, as well as his relationship with his colleagues, will ensure a seamless transition.” Source: 03-04-2004 Press Release

 

 

 

 

 

Immigration

"The current system puts up a concrete wall to the best and brightest, yet those without skill or education are able to walk across the border. We must reform the current immigration laws so we can secure our borders...and increase legal immigration into America." Mitt Romney

 

 

Marriage

Today, you are witnessing democracy in action. On issues of fundamental importance affecting all of the people, it is ultimately up to the people to decide. That is what this Constitutional Convention is all about. It serves as an important reminder that no one person and no branch of government is above the voice of the people. This is as it should be. Amending the constitution is a serious matter and any changes to the document itself should be finely and narrowly drawn. I recognize that the Senate President and the Senate Minority Leader are trying to find a compromise that will satisfy people on both sides of this issue, but their proposed amendment goes too far. The Constitution should not be used to legislate new social policy. A constitutional amendment defining marriage as between a man and a woman is not a new proposal but rather a codification of longstanding policy and tradition. Civil union language is best left to the legislative process. My hope is the Constitutional Convention will approve an amendment defining marriage as the union of a man and a woman. If we do that, we will have taken an important step toward restoring the people’s voice in their own government. - Source: 02-11-2004 Press Release

 

I agree with the President on the need for a federal marriage amendment that defines marriage as the union of a man and a woman. As I’ve said before, amending the U.S. Constitution may be the best and most reliable way to prevent a patchwork of inconsistent marriage laws between states and to guard against overreaching by the judicial branch. Acts of lawlessness in San Francisco bring into even sharper focus the need to proceed with the process of amending the Constitution. I don’t think anyone ever imagined that we would have courts and local officials defining marriage in a way that has no historical precedent whatsoever, and claiming it’s been in the Constitution all along. Of course, we must conduct this debate with decency, tolerance and respect for those with different opinions. The definition of marriage is so fundamental to society that it should not be decided by one court in Massachusetts or by one mayor in San Francisco. In America, the people should decide. In America, the people are fair and tolerant. Let the people decide. - Taken from a 02-24-2004 Press Release

 

Good afternoon. Our elected representatives met yesterday and took the first steps toward passing an amendment to the state Constitution that defines marriage as the union between a man and a woman. I applaud Senate President Travaglini, Speaker Finneran and all the members of the Legislature for conducting a respectful and thoughtful debate. As we saw, some people feel that the amendment changes the Constitution; I, and many others, feel that it preserves the Constitution. This amendment process began after the state Supreme Judicial Court redefined marriage, setting aside thousands of years of recorded history and legal precedent. The Court directed the Legislature to take action as it deemed appropriate. That’s just what the Legislature did yesterday. The Legislature is now on a track to put this issue before the voters. Ultimately, this is as it should be: the people of our state will decide. I know there are deeply held personal convictions around this issue. There are real people and real lives that are affected. On a matter of such significance and with such tender sentiment involved, I would ask that we continue to show respect and consideration for those of differing views. For all of us, the rule of law is bedrock. We’ve seen the lawlessness that has erupted in other states and how it undermines the higher purposes we all seek to preserve. I know there’s been a lot of speculation about what action I will take as Governor of the Commonwealth. Until the Legislature completes its work at the end of this month, I will have no comment on the options before me. But let me state clearly that whatever I do will be within the bounds of the law. Just as the Legislature is working within the constitutional and legal structure of our state, I will do the same. The Legislature has taken the first step. As the process continues, let us hope the final step will be taken by the people. Thank you. - Source: 03-12-2004 Press Release

 

Mr. Chairman, Senator Leahy, Senator Kennedy, distinguished members of the Committee, thank you for asking me to join you today. First, I ask that my written remarks be inserted into the record of this hearing. You have asked for my perspectives on the recent inauguration of same sex marriagein my state. This is a subject about which people have tender emotions in part because it touches individual lives. It also has been misused by some as a means to promote intolerance and prejudice. This is a time when we must fight hate and bigotry, when we must root out prejudice, when we must learn to accept people who are different from one another. Like me, the great majority of Americans wish both to preserve the traditional definition of marriage and to oppose bias and intolerance directed towards gays and lesbians. Given the decision of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, Congress and America now face important questions regarding the institution of marriage. Should we abandon marriage as we know it and as it was known by the framers of our constitution? Has America been wrong about marriage for 200 plus years? Were generations that spanned thousands of years from all the civilizations of the world wrong about marriage? Are the philosophies and teachings of all the world’s major religions simply wrong? Or is it more likely that four people among the seven that sat in a court in Massachusetts have erred? I believe that is the case. And I believe their error was the product of seeing only a part, and not the entirety. They viewed marriage as an institution principally designed for adults. Adults are who they saw. Adults stood before them in the courtroom. And so they thought of adult rights, equal rights for adults. If heterosexual adults can marry, then homosexual adults must also marry to have equal rights. But marriage is not solely for adults. Marriage is also for children. In fact, marriage is principally for the nurturing and development of children. The children of America have the right to have a father and a mother. Of course, even today, circumstances can take a parent from the home, but the child still has a mother and a father. If the parents are divorced, the child can visit each of them. If a mother or father is deceased, the child can learn about the qualities of the departed. His or her psychological development can still be influenced by the contrasting features of both genders. Are we ready to usher in a society indifferent about having fathers and mothers? Will our children be indifferent about having a mother and a father? My Department of Public Health has asked whether we must re-write our state birth certificates to conform to our Court’s same-sex marriage ruling. Must we remove “father” and “mother” and replace them with “parent A” and “parent B?” What should be the ideal for raising a child: not a village, not “parent A” and “parent B,” but a mother and a father. Marriage is about even more than children and adults. The family unit is the structural underpinning of all successful societies. And, it is the single-most powerful force that preserves society across generations, through centuries. Scientific studies of children raised by same sex couples are almost non-existent. And the societal implications and effects on these children are not likely to be observed for at least a generation, probably several generations. Same sex marriage doesn’t hurt my marriage, or yours. But it may affect the development of children and thereby future society as a whole. Until we understand the implications for human development of a different definition of marriage, I believe we should preserve that which has endured over thousands of years. Preserving the definition of marriage should not infringe on the right of individuals to live in the manner of their choosing. One person may choose to live as a single, even to have and raise her own child. Others may choose to live in same sex partnerships or civil arrangements. There is an unshakeable majority of opinion in this country that we should cherish and protect individual rights with tolerance and understanding. But there is a difference between individual rights and marriage. An individual has rights, but a man and a woman together have a marriage. We should not deconstruct marriage simply to make a statement about the rights of individual adults. Forcing marriage to mean all things, will ultimately define marriage to mean nothing at all. Some have asked why so much importance is attached to the word “marriage.” It is because changing the definition of marriage to include same sex unions will lead to further far-reaching changes that also would influence the development of our children. For example, school textbooks and classroom instruction may be required to assert absolute societal indifference between traditional marriage and same sex practice. It is inconceivable that promoting absolute indifference between heterosexual and homosexual unions would not significantly effect child development, family dynamics, and societal structures. Among the structures that would be affected would be religious and certain charitable institutions. Those with scriptural or other immutable founding principles will be castigated. Ultimately, some may founder. We need more from these institutions, not less, and particularly so to support and strengthen those in greatest need. Society can ill afford further erosion of charitable and virtuous institutions. For these reasons, I join with those who support a federal constitutional amendment. Some retreat from the concept of amendment, per se. While they say they agree with the traditional definition of marriage, they hesitate to amend. But amendment is a vital and necessary aspect of our constitutional democracy, not an aberration. The constitution’s framers recognized that any one of the three branches of government might overstep its separated powers. If Congress oversteps, the Court can intervene. If the Executive overreaches, Congress may impeach. And if the Court launches beyond the constitution, the legislative branch may amend. The four Massachusetts justices launched beyond our constitution. That is why the Massachusetts legislature has begun the lengthy amendment process. There is further cause for amendment. Our framers debated nothing more fully than they debated the reach and boundaries of what we call federalism. States retained certain powers upon which the federal government could not infringe. By the decision of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, our state has begun to assert power over all the other states. It is a state infringing on the powers of other states. In Massachusetts, we have a law that attempts to restrain this infringement on other states by restricting marriages of out-of-state couples to those where no impediment to marry exists in their home state. Even with this law, valid same sex marriages will migrate to other states. For each state to preserve its own power in relation to marriage, within the principle of Federalism, a federal amendment to define marriage is necessary. This is not a mere political issue. It is more than a matter of adult rights. It is a societal issue. It encompasses the preservation of a structure that has formed the basis of all known successful civilizations. With a matter as vital to society as marriage, I am troubled when I see an intolerant few wrap the marriage debate with their bias and prejudice. I am also troubled by those on the other side of the issue who equate respect for traditional marriage with intolerance. The majority of Americans believe marriage is between a man and a woman, but they are also firmly committed to respect, and even fight for civil rights, individual freedoms and tolerance. Saying otherwise is wrong, demeaning and offensive. As a society, we must be able to recognize the salutary effect, for children, of having a mother and a father while at the same time respecting the civil rights and equality of all citizens. Thank you. - Taken from a 06-22-2004 Press Release

 

 

National Defense

"The president is right to point to an international jihadist movement aimed at the collapse of the United States. He has gone after that threat in the right way and with great energy and vigor, and I applaud the fact that he has taken it on very seriously and has not considered it just a criminal action but instead a war action, which requires a military . . . response."-Source: Interview with James Taranto (December 2005)

 

“Our veterans know the meaning of service better than anyone else and they aren’t about to quit working when they come home. The best reward we can provide our vets for their service isn’t a medal or a check; it’s a livelihood and a means of supporting themselves and their families.” –Source: press release promoting “Hire a Veteran” month (November 2005)

 

"When it comes to protecting our citizens, there is no place for political correctness. We should be doing more in terms of intelligence and counterterrorism in the state to protect ourselves from terrorists. We spend a lot of our resources thinking about response, but response can't protect us. We have to be able to prevent attacks."-Source: press conference (September 2005)

 

``I think it shows a complete lack of understanding of the kind of enemy that we're facing," said Romney, a Republican. ``This is not a small group of wackos in the hills that all we have to do is go find one person and it suddenly goes away."

 

 

Patronage

”Very simply, I was running to help people. Massachusetts had been burdened for too long by waste, abuse, inefficiency, and patronage. Government needed to be more about public service and less about self-service.”

 

He added, “For the last several months, we have successfully focused on reforming the old way of appointing judges and replaced it with a non-partisan and merit-based process. This new system – free from patronage, politics and favoritism – has yielded the highest caliber individuals for these positions.” (taken from a 12- 03-2003 press release). The Fiscal Year 2004 spending plan embraces many of the ideas Romney proposed earlier this year, including: Creating a unified parks system for the state by merging the patronage-laden Metropolitan District Commission with the Department of Environmental Management to form the new Department of Conservation and Recreation;... (Taken from a 06-30-2003 press release)

 

Ronald Reagan

“I believe people who are in a position of visibility and leadership affect the character of young people and individuals who look to them as leaders. And in some respects just as important as their policies and positions is there character and their substance. What for me makes people like Teddy Roosevelt and Franklin Roosevelt and John Adams and George Washington and Dwight Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan such extraordinary leaders is that they had integrity through and through. What they were on the inside and what they said on the outside was harmonious. There a lot of people like that. I think that if people try to live a very different personal life not consistent with the role they’ve assumed as a Governor or senator or president, we lose something as a nation.” –Source: The Atlantic (September 2005)

 

Ronald Reagan is one of my heroes," Romney said as he praised Reagan's strategy for winning the Cold War: We win; they lose." Source

 

“Ronald Reagan is also my hero and a friend of all of ours…I believe that our party’s ascendancy began with Ronald Reagan’s brand of visionary and courageous leadership.” –Source: Speech in South Carolina (February 2005)

 

And if you think that during the great national policy debate of the 1980's, Ronald Reagan was wrong and Ted Kennedy was right, then by all means send in John Kerry.

 

 

Smart Growth

“If we are to attract new businesses and jobs to Massachusetts, we must be innovative in creating clearer, faster and more predictable paths for economic development. These grants will help us to reach those goals,” said Romney. “By targeting development to areas where there is already infrastructure in place, not only can we revitalize our older communities, but we can also curb sprawl as well.” (Taken from a 02-10-2005 Press Release)

 

“Right now, our ocean waters are vulnerable to unplanned development. We want to avoid a Wild West shootout, where projects are permitted on a ‘first come, first served’ basis,” said Romney. “The only way to protect our beautiful ocean environment is with comprehensive ocean zoning reform.” (Taken from a 03-18-2005 Press Release)

 

“To generate new jobs, spark economic growth and remain competitive, we need to be smart about how we invest taxpayer dollars in growth and development in Massachusetts,” said Romney. “These grants and loans will go a long way towards ensuring a robust economy and prosperous quality of life in the Commonwealth for many years to come.” (Taken from a 03-16-2006 Press Release)

 

 

Taxes

"And a special thank you to the citizens of Massachusetts: You are paying all the taxes, creating all the jobs, raising all the children. This government is yours. Thank you for letting me serve you. I love this job." Mitt Romney

 

“The easy way to fix any problem is to go to the people and say you have to pay more money, but that's not what the job of management is. The job of management is to find ways to permanently and structurally change the costs of our structure such that we can have a balanced budget without always raising taxes every time people think there's a need." –Source: Boston Herald, March 22, 2002

 

America’s tax code is a labyrinth that imposes an enormous and unnecessary burden on our citizens and employers. Keeping taxes low and simplifying the code will grow the economy and enhance our ccompetitiveness.

 

“You don’t create economic prosperity by raising taxes.” – Source: National Review (June 2005) “We enacted property tax relief for our senior citizens and instead of levying a retroactive capital gains tax hike, we acted to refund $250 million to Massachusetts taxpayers.” –Source: 2006 State of the State Address (January 2006)

 

“I don’t like taxes. I think we need less government, not more government.” –Source: Interview with Mort Kondracke (March 2006)

 

"Let me come back to something more parochial, which is how our state fits into all of that and how you who are entrepreneurs and investors, financiers, faculty members and others who are associated with the process of innovation fit into, if you will, "our state." I am convinced that this is an extraordinarily attractive place to grow and develop ideas and technology. That this state has many of the features which are unique in our nation and perhaps in our world - the clusters of technology and capability that have assembled here -- means that enterprises that begin here begin with a natural advantage. We have also thought to keep the attractiveness of the, if you will, 'the Petri dish" here for technology innovation very robust and vital. There are some who would suggest we could solve our problems best by, for instance, raising our tax rates and business payroll taxes and so forth. I am afraid of going down the path California is going down. I am afraid that going to an 11% income tax will scare away innovation and scare away jobs. California is a beautiful place. We don't have their weather to compete with, so we have to compete on other bases. For us it's a place where that tax burden is not overwhelming with a 5.3% tax rate - they're going up to an 11% tax rate, with over 9% today. We have to make sure this is a place as attractive for people to come and grow their enterprise - our regulatory structure."

 

If you want someone who voted for tax hikes 98 times, send in John Kerry. If you think trial lawyers need more money, our economy needs more law suits, and malpractice costs should go even higher, then send in John Edwards with him. - Mitt Romney

 

Turnpike

 

 

Transportation

“Today, we are revolutionizing bus service at the MBTA. We are taking an aging, polluting fleet and replacing it with ultra-new, world-class, clean energy buses,” said Romney, speaking at Dudley Square Station in Roxbury. Source: 08-14-2003 Press Release

 

"Massachusetts can no longer afford to allow our existing system to crumble under the weight of overuse and official neglect," said Romney. "We need to redirect the state's resources to reflect a priority on repairing what we already have." Source: 01-14-2003 Press Release

 

"Our program encourages development where it is needed, where it contributes new jobs, new housing and new amenities to the region and the local communities without eating up or creating the need for new infrastructure valuable open space," said Romney. Source: 12-17-2003 Press Release

 

“This bill is as good as you can get without actually merging the Turnpike Authority and the Highway Department. But, it’s the first important step toward that end,” said Romney. “This will markedly change the way we manage our transportation system by providing better coordination of our transportation resources and creating potential savings for taxpayers.” Source: 07- 21-2004 Press Release

 

“We are working harder, but more importantly, we are working smarter to achieve a better quality of life in Massachusetts for all of our citizens,” said Romney, who presented the awards for the second consecutive year. “I am delighted to recognize cities and towns that are leading the way in spurring important smart growth projects throughout the state.”

 

Veterans

“Our veterans know the meaning of service better than anyone else and they aren’t about to quit working when they come home. The best reward we can provide our vets for their service isn’t a medal or a check; it’s a livelihood and a means of supporting themselves and their families.” –Source: press release promoting “Hire a Veteran” month (November 2005)

 

With some of their families looking on, Romney paid special tribute to the 16 Massachusetts soldiers killed “fighting to protect our freedom” since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. After naming them one by one, Romney said, “These heroes we remember, we extol, we salute.”

 

 

Welfare

 

People from both political parties have long recognized that welfare without work creates negative incentives that lead to permanent poverty. It robs people of self-esteem. - Mitt Romney

 

“Fundamentally, this is a debate about the best way to help someone lead a fulfilling life. We know that the best system isn’t about a handout but a hand up.” –Source: press release on welfare reform (July 2005)

 

People want a chance to work so they can build self-sustaining lives instead of relying on a welfare check that will keep them trapped in poverty,” said Romney. “By providing support services and incentives where necessary, we want to give welfare recipients the opportunity to achieve independent and fulfilling lives.” Source: 01-24-2005 Press Release

 

“The welfare policies that Massachusetts instituted in 1995 were ahead of their time. But, the times have changed and we now lag behind the rest of the nation,” said Romney. “To help welfare recipients change their lives for the better, we need to update our laws.” Source: 01-24-2005 Press Release

 

“The prospect of $56 million in federal sanctions and the reality that the status quo dooms thousands of women and their children to a life of poverty should serve as a catalyst for change,” said Romney. Source: 03-15-2006 Press Release

 

“Work is an important and necessary part of life for all adults, and every member of our society should contribute to the level of his or her abilities,” said Romney in a letter delivered to legislative leadership today. “I believe in providing adequate supports and building in flexibility for individuals with disabilities and other barriers.” Source: 03-15-2006 Press Release

 

“We should ask that all adults participate in work activities to their fullest ability,” said Romney. “By lowering our expectations, we are potentially dooming people to a lifetime of dependency and poverty.” Source: 03-15-2006 Press Release

 

“As the Haleigh Poutre case demonstrates, errors in human judgment occur. What is unusual is how many people involved in Haleigh’s care – medical professionals, case workers and administrators from many disciplines – made errors. I welcome new systems and processes that will identify and guard against circumstances where human error may have severe consequences,” said Romney. Source: 03-21-2006 Press Release

 

“Exempting thousands of welfare recipients from a work requirement and loosely defining what constitutes work for others moves Massachusetts backwards from our commitment to help people attain self-sufficiency,” said Romney. Source: 07-28-2006a Press Release

 

“My amendments will help families in need of assistance and will move Massachusetts closer to federal standards,” said Romney. Source: 07-28-2006a Press Release

 

“Over a decade ago the Commonwealth and federal government embarked on a path to end ‘welfare-as-we-know-it,’ ” said Romney. “We must be careful not to revert back to ‘welfare-as-we-used-to-know-it,’ a failed social policy that perpetuates poverty.” Source: 07-28-2006a Press Release

 

 

Women

 

"You may have noted, well you probably didn't see the little Boston Globe article. They didn't make a big deal out of it in the Boston Globe, but in the University of Albany they looked at all the states in the country and looked at all the senior positions to see how many were filled by men and women and it turned out that our state was ranked number one in the number of women in senior positions. Just over 50 percent. I'm most proud of that." - Governor Mitt Romney, NH Federation of Republican Women's Lilac Dinner