Pataki Hammers Obama and Pelosi in Scott County
Both Rants and Vander Plaats also took some not so subtle shots at former governor Terry Branstad’s absence. Rants said, “I want to be your next governor. I can’t imagine wanting to be your governor and not being here tonight.” Rants then talked about the importance of winning Scott County if Republicans want to win statewide elections.
Bob Vander Plaats began his speech by acknowledging what he calls “The Faithful Four.” Vander Plaats explained that the faithful four are the four candidates who have traveled to countless meetings like this. The “Faithful Four” includes Christian Fong, Chris Rants, Rod Roberts, and Vander Plaats himself.
The comradery that seems to be developing between these four candidates seems to have extended beyond just attending the same event. Before the event began, Bob Vander Plaats approached Christian Fong and said, “I see you have had the same idea I had.” Vander Plaats was referring to Fong’s new hair cut. Vander Plaats also admitted to getting one, too. After the event, Rod Roberts mentioned Vander Plaats’ “Faithful Four” comment and said that he will offer to buy Vander Plaats a root beer.
The main attraction at the event was former New York Governor George Pataki. Pataki didn’t disappoint. While Pataki was very funny at times, he viciously attacked President Obama and Nancy Pelosi. Governor Pataki said, “Democrats are wrong on healthcare, wrong on the economy, and wrong on foreign policy.”
The former New York governor ended his speech by focusing on foreign policy. “It’s not America’s strength that causes problems in the world, it’s America’s weakness. I understand the consequences of America being weak. I was in New York on September 11th,” Pataki added.
He also called out President Obama for being weak on terrorism. Pataki said, “Mr. President, don’t use your Justice Department to investigate our CIA agents. Use them to investigate Islamic terrorists.”
Pataki concluded his remarks by saying, “It’s not just about our party, it’s about our country, and it’s about our future.”
The Scott County Republican Ronald Reagan Dinner symbolizes a new direction the Scott County GOP has taken in terms of its focus on major donor fundraising. Last night’s event was as nice, or nicer, than many of the statewide fundraisers put on by the Republican Party of Iowa. The widely successful event will most likely mean larger crowds and better known speakers for future events.
