Senator John Cornyn

On Working to Lower Gas Prices, Promote Energy Independence

“Some national figures have endorsed an ‘Energy Independence Days’ initiative launched by U.S. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas to highlight the need for real solutions to the nation’s energy problems.”
(“Congress Should Hear Urgent Energy Pleas,” Editorial, Tyler Morning Telegraph, 7/17/08)

“I am especially proud to be on the ballot this November with Senator John Cornyn… Senator Cornyn knows that in order for America to have affordable energy costs, we have to explore and develop our energy sources here in America.”
(Texas Railroad Commissioner Michael Williams, Video Statement, 7/17/08)

“Whitney Farr, of Waco, one of those waiting for gas, said she agrees with Cornyn’s stance on lifting drilling and oil production restrictions.”
(“Cornyn visits Waco to tout plans to ease sky-high gas prices,” Tim Woods, Waco Tribune-Herald, 7/22/08)

“Thanks to Senator Cornyn for his leadership on this important issue… The American people have spoken. I commend Sen. Cornyn for listening.”
(Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, Web Post, 7/15/08)

“I am grateful for Senator Cornyn’s willingness to make this an issue he is building his campaign around and his effort to offer solutions to the problems we face today.”
(Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, Web Post, 7/14/08)

On Fighting for Troops, Veterans

“America and Texas needs strong leaders like Senator Cornyn. As a veteran, I know that he will ensure that all veterans are treated fairly and honorably, and receive the respect and care that they have so richly earned.”
(Pharr Mayor Leopoldo “Polo” Palacios, Press Release, 5/17/08)

“Senator Cornyn is and always has been a strong supporter of our Armed Forces. His steadfast and continued resolve has ensured that the soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines have everything they need to continue winning the fight in Iraq and the overall Global War on Terror. Senator Cornyn is a true friend of all veterans.”
(Vets for Freedom Texas State Captain and veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Knox Nunnally, Press Release, 2/27/08)

“Congressional attention to the problem [of U.S. troops overseas not being able to vote] has been scattered and limited mostly to Republicans such as Sen. John Cornyn.”
(“They fight but can’t vote,” Robert Novak, Syndicated Column, 7/24/08)

Sen. Cornyn “has been a strong advocate for veterans…”
(Former Weslaco Mayor Hector Farias, Press Release, 5/17/08)

On Keeping Texas Prosperous, Cutting Wasteful Spending, Protecting Taxpayers

“John Cornyn is a leader who time and again has supported legislation to create jobs, increase productivity, and strengthen our nation’s recovering economy.”
(Thomas Donohue, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Honoring Sen. Cornyn with “Spirit of Enterprise” award, Press Release, February, 2/25/04)

“By consistently voting to reduce federal spending, taxes, and debt, Sen. Cornyn has truly earned the title, ‘Taxpayers’ Friend.’... Overburdened taxpayers in Texas and across the nation owe Sen. Cornyn a debt of gratitude for his hard work on their behalf…While many Members of Congress talk about reducing the size of government, Sen. Cornyn backed up those words with votes.”
(John Berthoud, National Taxpayers Union President, Honoring Sen. Cornyn with “Taxpayers’ Friend” award, Press Release, 3/17/05)

“Sen. Cornyn puts the interests of taxpayers ahead of politics by recognizing the long-term consequences of excessive spending and working to reduce the enormous debt being left to future generations… Sen. Cornyn gives taxpayers hope for the future.”
(Tom Schatz, Council for Citizens Against Government Waste President, Honoring Sen. Cornyn with “Taxpayer Hero” award, Press Release, 7/13/07)

Sen. Cornyn’s “re-election is not only critical to the small-business owners in [Texas], but also to protecting free enterprise across America.”
(National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Save America’s Free Enterprise PAC, Executive Vice President Dan Danner, Endorsement Letter, 3/1/08)

“John Cornyn is dedicated to those values which unite all Texans: low taxes, strong national defense, less government and fiscal discipline.”
(South Padre Island Mayor Robert Pinkerton, Press Release, 5/17/08)

Sen. Cornyn “has a conservative record and consistently bucks the party’s appropriators and big spenders.”
(“Lott Resignation Kicks Off Republican Leadership Shuffle,” Timothy P. Carney, Evans and Novak, 11/28/07)

On Strengthening Border Security, Implementing Balanced Immigration Reform

“Cornyn quickly embraced one of the nation’s most vexing problems as his signature issue, carving out a high-profile role in the debate over illegal immigration and border security.”
(“Cornyn takes active role in Senate debate,” Dave Montgomery, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3/30/06)

Sen. Cornyn “is a leader on the issue.”
(“Immigration Debate Focuses on Those in U.S.,” Michael Sandler, CQ, 11/5/05)

“Once again, Senator Cornyn has demonstrated his commitment to engage the issue of immigration reform without any hesitation and this approach is consistent with his agenda of providing pragmatic and real solutions to such a complicated dilemma.”
(Rev. Miguel Rivera, Chairman of the National Coalition of Latino Clergy and Christian Leaders (CONLAMIC), Press Release, 4/23/08)

“…Cornyn has sought to carve out a role as the GOP’s communications leader and demonstrated a willingness to be the point man on issues such as immigration…”
(“Rising Stars Looking to Revive the GOP Brand,” Erin Billings, Roll Call, 1/22/07)

The bill Sen. Cornyn introduced with Sen. Kyl “is a serious attempt to restore order to immigration.”
(“The GOP’s Immigration Problem – Will the elites get a clue?,” John O’Sullivan, National Review, 9/12/05)

“The Cornyn-Kyl bill contains dozens of excellent and necessary proposals that should have been ordered years ago.”
(“What’s behind a phone call from Newt Gingrich?,” Phyllis Schlaffly, Copley News Service, 7/26/05)

On Expanding Open Government, Transparency

“Throughout Cornyn’s service as an elected official…he has remained a consistent advocate for more openness and less secrecy. The people of Texas and the nation are well served in this arena by his work.”
(“Good Work, Folks,” Editorial, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12/28/07)

“Cornyn appears to be one of those somewhat rare members of government who have a strong awareness of the importance of keeping up the pressure for open government…. More significantly, adoption of the Open Government Act shows he is willing and able to back up his convictions by getting positive action.”
(“Transparency in Government Gets Needed Legislative Push,” Editorial, Tyler Morning Telegraph, 12/27/07)

“We are pleased with the work Cornyn, Leahy and other FOI advocates did on this new law. As Cornyn said, it really is a victory for U.S. citizens who deserve to know what their government is doing.”
(“Open Records,” Editorial, Lufkin Daily News, 1/3/08)

“A democratic society requires transparent government. The Cornyn-Leahy initiative that has been signed into law by President Bush takes the nation a significant step in that direction.”
(“Cornyn, Leahy Open Government to Public,” Editorial, Amarillo Globe-News, 1/3/08)

On Making Health Care More Accessible, Affordable

“We agree with U.S. Senator John Cornyn, R-Texas, that ‘every member of Congress, regardless of party affiliation or political ideology, should be able to agree that providing health care for low-income children must be a top priority of this Congress.’”
(“Politics As Usual Does Nothing to Help Kids,” Editorial, Paris News, 10/16/07)

“Sen. Cornyn has appropriately determined that the entitlement program [SCHIP] dollars should be directed toward low-income children and those most in need of the assistance.”
(Peggy Venable, Texas Director for Americans for Prosperity, Press Release, 12/6/07)

“As a volunteer with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, I applaud Sen. John Cornyn for sponsoring and Rep. Chet Edwards for supporting the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act.”
(“Tobacco bill,” Letter to the Editor, Waco Tribune-Herald, 3/19/08)

“Senator Cornyn has indicated a willingness to work with Texas hospitals at the federal level to address health care issues.”
(Texas Hospital Association HOSPAC, Senior Vice President for Advocacy and Public Policy John Hawkins, Press Release, 2/11/08)

“Senator Cornyn is committed to making health care more accessible for children and adults and to improving educational opportunities for all.”
(American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance, The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 5/1/07)

On Reforming Education

Sen. Cornyn is “a leading voice in the effort to reform the [No Child Left Behind] program.”
(“Locals Back ‘No Child’ Reform,” Matthew Phinney, San Angelo Standard Times, 3/17/07)

On Confirming Good Federal Judges

“Cornyn organized fellow freshmen to call on both parties for a “fresh start” to break the impasse on federal judges by setting aside the cycle of obstruction and recriminations.”
(“Cornyn’s freshman year not a silent one,” Todd Gillman, Dallas Morning News, 12/7/03)

Sen. Cornyn “has emerged as one of the most outspoken and influential Republicans on the judicial nomination process.”
(”’A Charge Unrebutted Is a Charge Believed,’” Kirk Victor, National Journal, 7/23/05)

On Working for Rural Texans

“The more than 3,000,000 people served by my association will all greatly benefit from the work Sen. Cornyn has done on behalf of rural water. His personal and technical assistance in our efforts will save water companies a great deal, allowing them to expand their services and take better care of their customers.”
(Texas Rural Water Association, President Leahmon Bryant, Honoring Sen. Cornyn with “Friend of Rural Water” award, Press Release, 4/27/04)

On Leadership for Texas Families

“Senator Cornyn is a dedicated public servant who is guided by traditional values.”
(Mission Mayor Beto Salinas, Press Release, 5/17/08)

“Serving on the Senate Armed Services, Judiciary and Budget committees, Cornyn has carved out a role as a significant voice on national issues…”
(“Cornyn merits party support,” Editorial, San Antonio Express-News, 2/16/08)

“John Cornyn will continue to work hard to ensure that all Texans have their shot at the American dream.”
(Palmquist Mayor Ramiro Rodriguez, Press Release, 5/17/08)

“Although the Senate’s seniority system was not designed to reward freshmen…Cornyn has had a successful first term, at least by Washington standards, playing a significant role in two major policy areas.”
(“Big Red,” Paul Burka, Texas Monthly, 11/13/07)

“…Cornyn has proven himself a superstar in the Senate… He represents Texas well, and he does it from an informed position.” [El Paso resident Roger O’Dell]
(“Democrat hopes to be Texas’ 1st Hispanic U.S. senator,” Brandi Grissom, El Paso Times, 7/27/08)

Sen. Cornyn is a “breath of fresh air in Washington.” [Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison]
(“San Antonio’s First U.S. Senator: A New Chapter Begins,” Gary Martin, San Antonio Express-News, 1/19/03)

“…Cornyn had fast developed a reputation as the Senate’s most ambitious—and most conservative—new addition… Cornyn didn’t hesitate to join the Senate’s toughest fights.”
(“The hard right’s soft new face,” Michael Crowley, New Republic, 8/16/04)

“…[H]is auspicious start in Washington makes it clear that the senator from San Antonio intends to be major force for many years to come…”
(“Cornyn boasts aggressive first year,” Bruce Davidson, San Antonio Express-News, 12/21/03)

“We appreciate all you have done to fight for the fundamental right to life of all innocent human beings and to promote respect for their value and dignity.”
(Texas Alliance for Life, Executive Director Joe Pojman, Endorsement Letter, 2/12/08)

On His Re-Election to the U.S. Senate

“The election is still Mr. Cornyn’s to lose.”
(“Cornyn’s race to lose,” Lynn Woolley, Dallas Morning News, 5/29/08)

Cornyn “looks likely to be re-elected this year.”
(“GOP Goes on Offensive for DeLay’s Old Seat,” Leslie Eaton, Wall Street Journal, 7/21/08)

“…[I]t will be difficult to beat Cornyn…”
(“Cornyn, Noriega open battle for U.S. Senate,” Bob Campbell, Midland Reporter-Telegram, 5/22/08)

Cornyn is “a battle-tested statewide campaigner.”
(“Congressman’s options: a hard run for re-election or challenge Cornyn,” Michelle Mittelstadt, Houston Chronicle, 4/27/07)

“Any Democrat who runs will have a steep hill to climb…”
(“DSCC: Right Candidate Could Upset Cornyn,” David Drucker, Roll Call, 4/26/07)

“Noriega won the dubious prize of taking on John Cornyn, winner of four statewide elections.”
(“Rick Noriega draws a line in the sand in the new battle for Texas,” Arnold Garcia, Austin American Statesman, 3/17/08)

National Journal ranks Sen. Cornyn “Safe.” [Safest Ranking]
(“The Fall Lineup,” Jennifer Duffy, National Journal, 8/2/08)

Rothenberg ranks Sen. Cornyn “Currently Safe.” [Safest ranking]
(“The Rothenberg Political Report,” A Nonpartisan Analysis of American Politics and Elections, 7/30/08)

“CQ Politics is rating this race ‘Republican Favored.’”
(“Eye on the Senate: Latest Round-up of Polls,” CQ, 7/25/08)