Press Releases

Citizens United President David Bossie On The Passing Of Andrew Breitbart

03/01/2012

Washington, DC -- Citizens United President David N. Bossie, issued the following statement on the passing of media icon Andrew Breitbart.

“It is with a heavy heart that I learned of the passing of my dear friend and colleague Andrew Breitbart this morning,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. “Andrew was a doting father of four young children and my heart breaks for his wife Susie in this trying time. Andrew was a trailblazer and icon when it came to internet based media. He was truly a one of a kind transformational figure and warrior in the conservative movement and he will be sorely missed. The entire Citizens United family has lost a dear friend today and our thoughts and prayers go out to the Breitbart family. Citizens United will be dedicated to honoring Andrew’s legacy in the coming weeks and months.”

Media Advisory: DC Premiere of “The Gift of Life,” Hosted By Governor Mike Huckabee

01/11/2012

Washington, DC – Citizens United Productions, in conjunction with Students for Life of America and Alliance Defense Fund, will premiere “The Gift of Life,” a pro-life documentary hosted by Governor Mike Huckabee, at the Students for Life of America National Conference on Sunday, January 22nd at the North Bethesda Marriott.

“I look forward to meeting the 2,000 students who will be attending this important conference and sharing the inspirational pro-life film ‘The Gift of Life’ with them on the 39th anniversary of Roe v. Wade,” said Governor Mike Huckabee.

“The Gift of Life,” is an inspirational documentary that explores the sanctity of life as a moral issue and looks at the lives of individuals on the front lines of the pro-life movement in America, including those who were nearly victims of abortion.

The SFLA National Conference is a day full of education, training, and networking with fellow students and national pro-life leaders who know that campuses are where the pro-life movement must be. “The Students for Life of America conference is the largest pro-life student conference in the world, and our 2012 National Conference will be the first that we are aware of that focuses on a post-Roe v. Wade nation,” said Kristan Hawkins, Executive Director of Students for Life of America.

WHO: Governor Mike Huckabee; Citizens United President David N. Bossie; Students for Life of America Executive Director Kristan Hawkins

WHAT: The Citizens United Productions Washington, DC Premiere of “The Gift of Life,” a pro-life documentary hosted by Governor Mike Huckabee.

WHEN: Sunday, January 22nd at 6:00pm

WHERE: North Bethesda Marriott, 5701 Marinelli Rd, Bethesda, MD 20852

Response to Planned Parenthood "Prebuttal" of The Gift Of Life Event

12/14/2011

Citizens United President and "The Gift Of Life" Executive Producer David N. Bossie responds to Planned Parenthood's "prebuttal" of "The Gift Of Life" premiere event:

In attacking our film premiere of "The Gift Of Life" and pro-life forum with Governor Mike Huckabee, Planned Parenthood is just trying to distract from the serious allegations being investigated in Congress that the company has: failed to report the sexual abuse of minors, given women inaccurate and misleading information, and mishandled state and federal taxpayer funds, some of which was exposed by "The Gift Of Life" cast member Lila Rose.

Planned Parenthood tries to hide the realities of abortion behind the mantle of "women's health," but how does it improve the health of women to target people like "The Gift Of Life" cast members Rebecca Kiessling and James Robison for death because they were the product of rape, or Chet McDoniel because he was born without arms and shortened legs. Former abortion workers like "The Gift Of Life" cast members Carol Everett and Dr. Anthony Levatino expose the lie of abortion simply removing a "clump of cells" and reveal the heartlessness of abortion clinics. As U.S. Representative Chris Smith says in "The Gift Of Life," "Abortion mills are places of violence, they are not places of healing." It is no wonder that, according to "The Gift Of Life" cast member Kristan Hawkins, the abortion industry is having trouble recruiting from this generation's medical students.

Learn more about the humanity of the unborn, Planned Parenthood's dark history, and today's leaders in the pro-life movement in the film "The Gift Of Life," with Governor Mike Huckabee, available now on DVD: http://thegiftoflifemovie.com

CITIZENS UNITED SUPPORTS SENATOR RON JOHNSON FOR VICE CHAIR OF THE SENATE REPUBLICAN CONFERENCE

12/08/2011

Washington, DC -- Citizens United President David N. Bossie, issued the following statement in support of Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) as Vice Chair of the Senate Republican Conference.

“Voters sent a clear message last year that they wanted to shake up Congress and not rely on the failed status quo,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. “Republican Senators would be heeding this message by putting freshman Senator Ron Johnson in a leadership position. Americans expect fresh ideas and new faces leading in Congress because the old guard has failed to lead when it matters the most. What the Senate needs most is real leadership and Ron Johnson is the Senator for the job. ”

Over 1,000 People Attending “The Gift of Life” Premiere and Pro-Life Forum Hosted By Governor Mike Huckabee

12/07/2011

Washington, DC – Citizens United Productions today announced that over 1,000 people have RSVP’d for the Iowa premiere of the pro-life documentary, “The Gift of Life,” that will occur one week from today in Des Moines, Iowa. Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, Speaker Newt Gingrich and Senator Rick Santorum will join Governor Mike Huckabee at this important pro-life event. Other presidential hopefuls Mitt Romney, Rick Perry, Ron Paul, and Jon Huntsman have been invited to attend the event and address the audience on pro-life issues before the screening.

Also addressing the crowd will be The Family Leader President Bob Vander Plaats, Iowa Right To Life Executive Director Jenifer Bowen, Citizens United President David N. Bossie, and Mickelson In The Morning host Jan Mickelson. At the end of the documentary Iowa natives Carrie and Stacie Stoelting will sing “In God We Still Trust,” and country music legend Larry Gatlin will perform. “This is shaping up to be a great pro-life event in Iowa,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. “Governor Huckabee and I look forward to hearing from those who are addressing the audience on pro-life issues as well as seeing the reaction to our pro-life documentary ‘The Gift of Life’.”

The premiere will take place on Wednesday, December 14th at the historic Hoyt Sherman Place, located at 1501 Woodland Ave. in Des Moines, Iowa. Doors open at 5:30pm and the program will begin at 7:00pm. This is a free event open to the public, but attendees are requested to RSVP by going to http://www.thegiftoflifemovie.com/rsvp/ or by calling Citizens United Productions at 1-800-362-4788.

“The Gift of Life,” which is available now for order at www.TheGiftofLifeMovie.com, is an inspiring documentary hosted by Governor Mike Huckabee that explores the sanctity of life as a moral issue and looks at the lives of individuals on the front lines of the pro-life movement in America, including those who were nearly victims of abortion.

Citizens United Productions, the country’s leading conservative filmmaker, is the organization behind “Hillary the Movie,” the film that recently brought about the landmark First Amendment Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. In total, Citizens United has produced 19 highly regarded feature-length documentary films including “Generation Zero,” “Fire from the Heartland,” “Battle for America,” and “America at Risk” as well as the award winning films “Perfect Valor,” with Senator Fred Thompson, and “Nine Days That Changed The World,” and “Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous With Destiny,” with Newt and Callista Gingrich.

Citizens United Productions To Premiere “The Gift of Life,” Hosted By Governor Mike Huckabee, in Iowa

11/16/2011

Washington, DC – Citizens United Productions will premiere "The Gift of Life," a Pro-Life documentary hosted by Governor Mike Huckabee, at the historic Hoyt Sherman Place, located at 1501 Woodland Ave. in Des Moines, Iowa on Wednesday, December 14th. Doors open at 5:30pm and the program will begin at 7:00pm. Republican presidential candidates Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich, Herman Cain, Rick Perry, Ron Paul, Michele Bachmann, Jon Huntsman, and Rick Santorum have all been invited to attend the premiere and address the audience before the screening on Pro-Life issues.

"The Gift of Life," which is available now for pre-order at www.TheGiftofLifeMovie.com, is an inspirational documentary that explores the sanctity of life as a moral issue and looks at the lives of individuals on the front lines of the Pro-Life movement in America, including those who were nearly victims of abortion.

"I look forward to premiering this great Pro-Life documentary with my good friends in Iowa during the run-up to the Iowa Caucuses," said Governor Mike Huckabee. "I am proud of this film because it looks at the personal stories of those who have been greatly affected by the scourge of abortion."

"Iowa is the land of strong family values and there is no better place to premiere 'The Gift of Life' than in the Hawkeye State," said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. "Abortion is an issue that must be addressed during this political season and this film lays out the case that every life - born and pre-born - is precious."

"The Gift of Life" also profiles leaders in the Pro-Life movement; those who believe that all other issues pale in comparison to whether we respect and honor others in the same way we want to be treated. Historically, America has been a shining example of a culture that respects life. But with the Roe v. Wade decision, we, as a society, exchanged our sense of responsibility toward human life for a greater heralding of the right to terminate it.

Cast appearing in "The Gift of Life" include: Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of Susan B. Anthony List; Kristan Hawkins, Executive Director of Students for Life of America; James Robison, Founder & President of LIFE Outreach International; Lila Rose, President of Live Action; U.S. Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ); Carol Tobias, President of the National Right to Life Committee; U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS); Charmaine Yoest, President & CEO of Americans United for Life; as well as a number of others with impactful stories.

Citizens United Productions, the country's leading conservative filmmaker, is the organization behind "Hillary the Movie," the film that recently brought about the landmark First Amendment Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. In total, Citizens United has produced 19 highly regarded feature-length documentary films including "Generation Zero," "Fire from the Heartland," "Battle for America," and "America at Risk" as well as the award winning films "Perfect Valor," with Senator Fred Thompson, and "Nine Days That Changed The World," and "Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous With Destiny," with Newt and Callista Gingrich.

Citizens United Launches Over $100,000 Television Effort In Ohio to Support “Issue 2”

11/03/2011

Citizens United is launching a television advertisement campaign worth over $100,000 in support of “Issue 2” in Ohio. The TV ad will run in the Cincinnati media market through Monday. On November 8^th, voters in Ohio will vote on an important ballot measure known as “Issue 2,” the referendum on Senate Bill 5. Citizens United is a strong supporter of the Senate Bill 5 reform law in Ohio.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW AD

Title: “Yes On Issue 2” TV (:30)

The Cincinnati Enquirer Says Vote Yes on Issue 2.

It will permit us to pay teachers based on merit, not just seniority.

Reward the best teachers for a job well done.

Reform tenure so we can replace the others.

Unions need the right to bargain for wages. But we parents and educators deserve the right to run our own schools.

Common sense reforms to help our children and grandchildren.

Vote Yes on Issue 2.

# # #

CitizensUnited.org

PAID FOR BY CITIZENS UNITED (WWW.CITIZENSUNITED.ORG) AND NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY ISSUE 2 CAMPAIGN OR COMMITTEE. DAVID N. BOSSIE, PRESIDENT, 1006 PENNSYLVANIA AVE. SE, WASHINGTON DC 20003.

LETTER TO CONGRESS: Support Cut, Cap, and Balance Act

07/18/2011

Today, on behalf of over 500,000 members and supporters of Citizens United, I urged all members of the House of Representatives to vote “YES” on the upcoming vote on the Cut, Cap, and Balance Act. All votes on this issue will be considered for Citizens United's 2011 Congressional Ratings. This is the fourth vote alert we have issued for our Ratings. Please see the first two regarding the repeal of Obamacare here and here, and the third on the debt ceiling here.

Please see the full letter to Congress below:

Citizens United’s 2011 Congressional Ratings Vote Alert 4 - House Cut, Cap, Balance

CITIZENS UNITED SUPPORTS “CUT, CAP, AND BALANCE” PLAN BY RSC CHAIRMAN JIM JORDAN

05/31/2011

Washington, DC – Today Citizens United President David N. Bossie issued the following statement in support of the “Cut, Cap, and Balance” plan by Republican Study Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH).

“Citizens United fully endorses the Republican Study Committee’s ‘Cut, Cap, and Balance’ debt ceiling plan,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. “America is at a crossroads where the status quo will only worsen America’s debt crisis. President Obama cannot turn a blind eye anymore to a debt crisis that will put future generations of Americans in peril. The ‘Cut, Cap, and Balance’ plan will cut the deficit in half by next year, cap spending at 18 percent of Gross Domestic Product, and send a Balanced Budget Amendment to the states for ratification. This is a real plan for success, and a step in the right direction when it comes to fiscal discipline. President Obama has been in office for two-and-a-half years without really addressing this serious issue. I hope all members of the Republican Conference sign onto the ‘Cut, Cap, and Balance’ plan. ”

LETTER TO CONGRESS: Oppose Raising the Debt Ceiling

05/27/2011

Today, on behalf of over 500,000 members and supporters of Citizens United, I urged all members of the House of Representatives to vote “NO” on the upcoming “clean” vote on increasing the debt ceiling. Any votes on the debt ceiling will be considered for Citizens United's 2011 Congressional Ratings. This is the third vote alert we have issued for our Ratings. Please see the first two regarding the repeal of Obamacare here and here.

Please see the full letter to Congress below:

Citizens United’s 2011 Congressional Ratings Vote Alert 3

Citizens United Supports “Returning To Responsible Fiscal Policies Act”

05/26/2011

Washington, DC -- Citizens United President David N. Bossie, issued the following statement in support of the “Returning To Responsible Fiscal Policies Act,” authored by Congressman Jack Kingston (R-GA).

“Citizens United is pleased to announce its support for Congressman Jack Kingston’s ‘Returning To Responsible Fiscal Policies Act’ that seeks to limit federal spending to 18 percent of the Gross Domestic Product,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. “America is facing a debt crisis that could bring down the Republic if it is left unchecked. The Kingston plan is a sound proposal that will help rein in our out-of-control $14 trillion national debt. I would like to applaud Congressmen Jack Kingston, Jim Jordan, Jeff Flake, and Tom Graves for having the courage to take on our nation’s dire fiscal situation head-on.”

Obama Sells Out Israel

05/19/2011

Today President Obama endorsed the Palestinians' demand for Israel to go back to the 1967 borders. This is a huge development for all parties and basically has left Israel and its security dangling in the wind. Since capturing the land during the 1967 war, Israel has maintained a buffer around those borders in order to protect itself from ongoing attacks. The Obama Administration's disregard for the only true democracy in the Middle East is a disgrace and essentially throws our greatest ally in the region under the bus.

Citizens United Files FOIA Request on Bin Laden Pictures

05/05/2011

On behalf of Citizens United and its 500,000 members, pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, Citizens United is requesting any and all photographs and or videotapes taken during the Abbottabad raid conducted on May 1, 2011 that document the death of Usama bin Laden. We are also requesting any and all photographs and or videotapes created during the funeral and funeral preparations of Usama bin Laden carried out on or around the U.S.S. Carl Vinson.

Please see full request below.

Citizens United Bin Laden FOIA Request

On The Death of Osama Bin Laden

05/02/2011

God bless the troops who took part in the successful mission to kill Osama Bin Laden yesterday. The War on Terror is not over, radical Islam extremists still want to do us harm. But today we celebrate the death of the man who killed nearly 3,000 people almost ten years ago.

Citizens United Productions to Premiere A City Upon A Hill On April 29th

04/26/2011

For media requests, please contact Jeff Marschner at (202) 547-5420.

Washington, DC – Citizens United Productions is pleased to announce the premiere of the new film “A City Upon A Hill” in Washington, DC on April 29th. Hosted by Newt and Callista Gingrich, “A City Upon A Hill” explores the concept of American Exceptionalism from its origin to the present day. “A City Upon A Hill”goes into great detail about how and why America is an exceptional nation and features a stellar cast with a wide range of expertise in politics, military, and industry. “A City Upon A Hill” includes real stories from Americans who have captured the American dream for themselves. Their stories illustrate what it is that makes our nation exceptional.

“Our Founding Fathers envisioned a nation based on the individual, dignity and liberty,” said Callista Gingrich, Co-host and Executive Producer of “A City Upon A Hill.” “As free citizens, we must have the personal responsibility and courage to ensure that America remains an exceptional nation, a challenge that is the essence of the American creed.”

“America’s Declaration of Independence makes clear that we are endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights,” said Newt Gingrich, Co-host and Executive Producer of “A “A City Upon A Hill.” “This truth, that we are sovereign and that we loan power to the government, distinguishes us from any other nation in history and has provided Americans with the freedom to become the safest and most prosperous nation in the world. We must remember why America is an exceptional nation to preserve it as such.”

“America is a beacon of liberty for the rest of the world,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United Productions and Executive Producer of “A City Upon A Hill.” “This documentary touches on America’s soul, and explores how this nation, conceived just over two centuries ago, has changed the world for the better. America is an exceptional nation because we believe in freedom.”

“A City Upon A Hill” is written and directed by award-winning filmmaker, Kevin Knoblock (“Border War,” “Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous With Destiny,” “Nine Days That Changed The World,” “America at Risk”).

Cast appearing in “A City Upon A Hill” include: Donald Trump, Rep. Michele Bachmann, Rep. Allen West, Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, Buzz Aldrin, Douglas Brinkley, Edwin Meese III, Allen Guelzo, Fred Barnes, Michael Barone, Andrew Breitbart, S.E. Cupp, Phyllis Schlafly, and others.

Citizens United Productions, the country’s leading conservative production company, is the organization behind “Hillary the Movie,” the film that recently brought about the landmark First Amendment Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. In addition, Citizens United has produced 18 highly regarded feature-length documentary films including “Generation Zero,” “Fire from the Heartland,” “Battle for America,” and “America at Risk” as well as the award winning films “Nine Days That Changed The World,” “Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous With Destiny,” and “Perfect Valor,” with Senator Fred Thompson.

CITIZENS UNITED LAUNCHES “BARRY AND HARRY: AMERICA’S OBSTACLES TO FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY” YOUTUBE VIDEO

04/08/2011

Citizens United has produced a short YouTube video entitled “Barry and Harry: America’s Obstacles to Fiscal Responsibility,” as the budget negotiations have apparently broken down today.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW AD

Title: “Barry and Harry: America’s Obstacles to Fiscal Responsibility” YouTube (:39)

Graphic: FACT: THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IS $14,000,000,000,000 IN DEBT.

Graphic: FACT: ONE SIDE WON’T BUDGE FROM THE FAILING STATUS QUO. [IMAGE OF PRESIDENT OBAMA AND SENATOR REID]

Graphic: FACT: ONE SIDE THINKS IT’S TIME TO MAKE TOUGH DECISIONS ABOUT GOVERNMENT SPENDING.

Graphic: FAMILIES MAKE TOUGH BUDGET DECISIONS ALL THE TIME, WHY SHOULDN’T DEMOCRAT LEADERS DO THE SAME?

Graphic: IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO BLAME FOR THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN.

Graphic: LOOK NO FURTHER THAN BARRY AND HARRY: AMERICA’S OBSTACLES TO FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY. [IMAGE OF PRESIDENT OBAMA AND SENATOR REID]

Graphic: NATIONAL

Graphic: DEBT

Graphic: $14,000,000,000,000

Graphic: www.citizensunited.org

LETTER TO THE SENATE: Vote to Repeal ObamaCare

02/02/2011

Today I sent a letter to the Senate urging them to support the McConnell amendment to the FAA Reauthorization bill repealing Obamacare and to inform them that any votes on Obamacare will be considered for Citizens United's 2011 Congressional Ratings. Please see our previous vote alert to the House of Representatives on Obamacare here. Citizens United’s 2011 Congressional Ratings Vote Alert 2 - Senate Obamacare Repeal

Bossie and Olson Comment On The One-Year Anniversary Of The Citizens United Supreme Court Victory

01/20/2011

Tomorrow, January 21, marks the one-year anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court case Citizens United v. FEC. The impact of the case has been to level the playing field in American politics during the 2010 election cycle. Below are statements by David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United, and Theodore B. Olson, the attorney who argued the case before the Supreme Court, reflecting on the anniversary.

David N. Bossie:
"Citizens United v. FEC allowed individuals to be able to participate in the political process through corporations for the first time in decades. Our victory allows non-profit corporations like Citizens United and others to come together with their donors and supporters to educate the American people. America is facing a number of major issues that will shape the course of our country in the years to come. Whether it is the exploding national debt or the fight over health care, the American people must be free to participate in the political process, and have the freedom to debate the most pressing issues of our time without government restrictions. Citizens United v. FEC set down a marker on First Amendment rights that will preserve all Americans' right to free speech."

Theodore B. Olson:
"I think it may be the most important case in history because what that decision said is that individuals, under the First Amendment, cannot be inhibited, cannot be restrained, cannot be threatened, cannot be censored by the government when they wish to speak about elections and the political process. What could be more important than that? This is a robust expression of our fundamental liberties. I think it is the most important decision ever to be rendered by the Supreme Court in connection with the freedom of citizens to participate in the political process."

Citizens United was founded in 1988, and is one of the leading conservative advocacy groups in the country with over 500,000 members and supporters. Through its films, op-eds, policy papers, newsletters, and grassroots organizing, Citizens United seeks to reassert the traditional American values of limited government, freedom of enterprise, strong families, and national sovereignty and security.

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LETTER TO CONGRESS: Vote to Repeal ObamaCare

01/18/2011

In our inaugural vote alert for the Citizens United 2011 Congressional Ratings, we have urged the House of Representatives to support H.R. 2, the Repealing the Job-Crushing Health Care Law Act. This vote, and any other on repealing Obamacare, will be considered for scoring in our Ratings.

Please see the full letter below:

Citizens United’s 2011 Congressional Ratings Vote Alert 1 - House Obamacare Repeal

Citizens United Calls on Time Magazine Not to Name Julian Assange as Time Person of the Year

12/08/2010

With reports out today that Time Magazine may name Julian Assange “Time Person of the Year” for 2010, Citizens United has launched a Facebook page named “1 Million Citizens United Against Julian Assange as Time Person of the Year.” Mr. Assange, the founder of Wikileaks and an alleged rapist, has put the lives of American soldiers at risk with the sensitive information he has supplied to our enemies.

“The goal of this Facebook page is to give a voice to the many Americans who are outraged by what Julian Assange has done to our national security at a time of war,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United. “Mr. Assange is an enemy of the state and for Time Magazine to possibly name him “Person of the Year” is a total affront to the American people. Why would Time Magazine want to bestow this honor to an alleged rapist who would like to see harm done to our soldiers? Julian Assange fits into the mold of Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin, and Ayatollah Khomeini who all graced the cover in the past as Time’s Person of the Year. Time Magazines’ editors, if they choose Mr. Assange, will further shame their already declining magazine. I am positive they can choose a better person for 2010. If you wish America success in the War on Terror, please support this effort.”

Click Here to go to the Facebook Site

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Bossie Calls on Congress to Investigate Wikileaks

11/30/2010

The following is a statement from David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United, calling on Congress to investigate Wikileaks and the Obama Administration’s handling of the Wikileaks investigation. Bossie served as Chief Investigator of the House Government Reform and Oversight Committee under Chairman Dan Burton in the late 1990s.

“If the lame duck Democrat Congress fails to act now, incoming-Chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Congressman Darrell Issa, should launch an investigation into the Wikileaks case and the ineptness of the Obama-Holder Justice Department. The Obama-Holder Justice Department has fumbled the most damaging national security case ever in American history. With news out today that more damaging leaks will be released, President Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder have been sitting on their hands for months.

“Why were President Obama and Eric Holder caught completely blindsided by what was leaked on Sunday? How did Julian Assange become essentially the biggest spy the world has ever seen under the nose of the Obama Administration? If Attorney General Eric Holder can shutdown websites offering counterfeit goods, why can’t he shutdown Wikileaks? Clearly, this investigation should be conducted in a bipartisan matter, and incoming Chairman Issa should use all his power to get to the bottom of the most damaging spy case in American history. Why this has not been a priority until now is a mystery to many Americans.”

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Citizens United Announces Battle For America Rally and St. Louis Premiere with Dick Morris

10/21/2010

On Wednesday, October 27, 2010, Citizens United will be hosting “Battle for America” Rally and Premiere with Dick Morris. The event will be hosted by Dana Loesch from 97.1 FM “The Dana Show” and Editor of “Big Journalism”. The rally and premiere will take place at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel, and doors open at 6:00 pm (CST). Following the rally, a viewing of the highly acclaimed documentary “Battle for America” with Dick Morris will be shown. “Battle for America” was recently named “Film of the Year” by FOX Nation. For more information about “Battle for America” please go to the movie’s website at http://www.battleforamericamovie.com/.

WHO: Dick Morris, Political Commentator; Dana Loesch, host of 97.1 FM “The Dana Show” and Editor of “Big Journalism”; Michelle Moore, Tea Party activist; and David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United

WHAT: “Battle for America” Rally and Premiere

WHEN: Wednesday, October 27, 2010, Doors open at 6:00 pm (CST) for the rally, screening of “Battle for America” immediately to follow

WHERE: Chase Park Plaza Hotel – Khorassan East Ballroom, 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, Missouri 63108

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Citizens United Announces Latest Film Battle for America With Dick Morris

09/29/2010

Washington, DC – Citizens United Productions announced the premiere of its third movie this month, "Battle for America." "Battle for America" is last in a trilogy of films exploring the reasons for the financial meltdown, the resurgent conservative movement and the clarion call to take back America. "Battle for America" with Dick Morris tells the story of the reborn conservative movement.

Dick Morris stated, "'Battle for America' is a film that acts as a closing argument for the mid-terms and a call-to-action to the country to take back America."

"Battle for America" features Dick Morris offering insight and clarity on issues important to the conservative movement and the actions required to overcome the liberal agenda and restore the principles of limited government. The documentary provides actionable solutions that will make the difference in this election cycle while sustaining the reborn conservatism that is flowering across the country.

In addition to Dick Morris, the film features Ann Coulter, Arthur Brooks, Newt Gingrich, Lou Dobbs, Fred Barnes, Eric Singer, Tony Blankley, Mike Flynn, Senator Kit Bond, Senator Tom Coburn, Congresswoman Sue Myrick, Congressman Thaddeus McCotter, and Congressman Dan Lungren.

"Dick Morris, the premiere political strategist, shares his political insights on where our country is headed in November and how the Tea Party movement is changing the political landscape. 'Battle for America' provides the exclamation point to 'Generation Zero' and 'Fire from the Heartland' to form the definitive trilogy of today's conservative political environment," said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United, and the film's Executive Producer.

"Battle for America," written and directed by Stephen K. Bannon, is the third film in a series led off by "Generation Zero" and "Fire from the Heartland" that looks at America at a crossroads, the rise of the Tea Party movement and the rebirth of conservative activism.

"America is in a crisis, one as serious as the Revolution, the Civil War, the Great Depression, or World War II. This film cuts to the heart of how we begin to take back our country," commented award-winning Director Bannon.

Citizens United Productions, the country's leading conservative film production company, is the organization behind "Hillary the Movie," the film that recently brought about the landmark First Amendment Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. In addition, Citizens United has produced highly regarded films such as "America at Risk," "Generation Zero," "Fire from the Heartland," and "Nine Days That Changed The World" as well as award winning films "Perfect Valor," with Senator Fred Thompson, "Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous With Destiny" with Newt and Callista Gingrich, and 10 other feature-length documentaries.

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www.BattleForAmericaMovie.com

Bossie Thanks Senators Collins, Snowe, Brown, And McCain For Their Vote Against The DISCLOSE Act

09/23/2010

Washington, DC -- Citizens United President David N. Bossie, issued the following statement regarding the defeat of the DISCLOSE Act in the United States Senate today.

"Hours after having a high dollar fundraiser in New York City, Senate Democrats failed yet again to invoke cloture on the DISCLOSE Act. Senators Collins, Snowe, Brown, and McCain should be thanked for preserving the First Amendment rights of all Americans. With unemployment hovering at 9.6 percent, the Democratic Congress should be exploring ways to create jobs for America’s struggling economy."

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Bossie: President Obama and the Democratic Congress are Tone Deaf

09/22/2010

Washington, DC -- Citizens United President David N. Bossie, issued the following statement regarding the potential vote on the DISCLOSE Act in the United States Senate set for Thursday.

"President Obama and the Democratic Congress are tone deaf to what the American people really want. The President and Congress should be focusing on the economy, and creating jobs for the American people. Focusing on the DISCLOSE Act just shows that Washington is out of touch. Having a high dollar fundraiser in New York City tonight, and the next day debating the DISCLOSE Act, is hypocrisy at its finest. President Obama and Harry Reid should revaluate their priorities, and I hope that in the coming weeks they focus on creating jobs."

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Citizens United to Premiere Controversial Film "Fire from the Heartland"

09/16/2010

Washington, DC – On the heels of the premiere of “America at Risk,” Citizens United Productions announced today that they will premiere a new film “Fire from the Heartland: The Awakening of the Conservative Woman” on Wednesday, September 22nd, in Washington, DC. The film, with an all-female cast, is the first to tell the story of the awakening of a new generation of women that are at the forefront of today's re-born conservative movement.

"We are very excited about “Fire from the Heartland” and the chance to have this extraordinary cast tell the story of women’s role in the leadership of the conservative movement," said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United, and the film’s Producer.

“Fire from the Heartland” features a range of activists, politicians, and commentators such as Phyllis Schlafly, Ann Coulter, Michelle Malkin, S.E. Cupp, Dana Loesch, Michelle Easton, Sonnie Johnson, Jenny Beth Martin, Michelle Moore, Jamie Radtke, Deneen Borelli, Janine Turner, and Congresswomen Cynthia Lummis, Jean Schmidt, and Michele Bachmann.

“From Phyllis Schlafly, Margaret Thatcher, Clare Boothe Luce, right up to Sarah Palin, and Michele Bachmann today, it really is stunning how much of the passion of the conservative movement comes from the women,” said conservative commentator Ann Coulter. “And, by the way, how much of the courage and the strength comes from women.”

“Fire from the Heartland” was written and directed by award-winning director Stephen K. Bannon (“ In the Face of Evil,” “Generation Zero ”). The film is the second film in a series led by “Generation Zero ” that looks at America at a crossroads and the rise of the Tea Party movement.

“These women are extraordinary, and the awakening that is happening at every level of our society is astonishing. The story they have to tell about the grit, determination and love of country that underpins the Tea Party movement needed to be told,” said Mr. Bannon. “I'm proud that we let them tell it in their own words.”

Tracing the long history of the many conservative women who have been the backbone of this great nation, from the founding mothers of our Republic to today's “Mama Grizzlies,” this powerful and compelling documentary honors the self-made American woman.

Citizens United Productions, the country’s leading conservative film production company, is the organization behind “Hillary the Movie,” the film that recently brought about the landmark First Amendment Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. In addition, Citizens United has produced widely regarded films such as “Generation Zero,” and “Nine Days That Changed The World,” as well as award winning films “Perfect Valor” with Senator Fred Thompson, “Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous With Destiny” with Newt and Callista Gingrich. Citizens United Productions has released 17 feature-length documentaries.

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www.FireFromTheHeartland.com

Citizens United Productions to Premiere America at Risk on September 11th

09/09/2010

Washington, DC -- “America at Risk” is a groundbreaking documentary that exposes why the United States of America is losing the war against radical Islam. Hosted by Newt and Callista Gingrich, and premiering in Washington, DC on September 11th, “America at Risk” brings to the forefront the poor execution of the War on Terror by the Obama Administration. Today, Washington refuses to tell the truth about the war we are fighting. This documentary brings that truth to the viewer in vivid detail. Every citizen who is concerned about our nation’s safety and security should see this compelling and powerful documentary. Featuring a cast of over twenty Middle East, terrorism, and national security experts, including former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, and former CIA Director R. James Woolsey, “America at Risk” gives the viewer an inside look at the war against radical Islam, and how it is being waged. “Radical Islamists are a direct threat to America,” said Speaker Newt Gingrich, co-host and executive producer of “America at Risk.” “We made this film to convince every American that the courage to tell the truth and to act on the truth is vital to America's survival, and that is exactly what the elites in Washington are unwilling to do.” “The freedoms we cherish are at stake,” said Callista Gingrich, co-host and executive producer of “America at Risk.” “It is only by accurately identifying radical Islamists as our enemy in this war that America can summon the clarity and courage to defeat them.” “This film goes into great detail of how and why the United States is losing the war against radical Islam,” said David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United Productions and Executive Producer of the film. “The Obama Administration is fumbling away what they call the Overseas Contingency Operation; Americans must understand we are in a Global War on Terror. America is under constant threat, and this film explains the reasons behind it.” “America at Risk” was written and directed by awarding-winning writer and director, Kevin Knoblock (“Border War,” “Nine Days That Changed The World”). Cast appearing in “America at Risk” include, among others: Tony Blankley; Ambassador John Bolton; Senator Christopher S. Bond; Debra Burlingame; Secretary Michael Chertoff; Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury; Steven Emerson; Frank J. Gaffney Jr.; Jessica Hansen; M. Zuhdi Jasser; Michael Ledeen; Bernard Lewis; Andrew M. McCarthy; Walid Phares; Melanie Phillips; Reihan Salam; Michael Scheuer; Marc Thiessen; Leila Hunt-Willingham; and Director R. James Woolsey. Citizens United Productions, the country’s leading conservative production company, is the organization behind “Hillary the Movie,” the film that recently brought about the landmark First Amendment Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. In addition, Citizens United has produced widely regarded films such as “Generation Zero” and “Nine Days That Changed The World,” as well as award winning films “Perfect Valor” with Senator Fred Thompson, “Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous With Destiny” with Newt and Callista Gingrich, and 14 other feature-length documentaries.

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www.AmericaAtRisk.com

House Passage of the DISCLOSE Act

07/07/2010

Statement from David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United, on House Passage of the DISCLOSE Act

"The DISCLOSE Act passed today by the House of Representatives is Exhibit A of why Congress cannot be trusted to regulate political speech. For crassly political purposes, Chairman Van Hollen and his lieutenants at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee decided behind closed doors that the First Amendment applies only to labor unions and certain advocacy groups that scare them sufficiently.

"Citizens who are members of other grassroots groups will be muzzled by this legislation for no reason other than that they belong to a group without the financial and lobbying muscle to exempt itself from this bill.

"Speaker Pelosi and the Democrats in Congress are hanging on to power by a quickly fraying thread, and this bill is nothing more than incumbent protection in its worst and most cynical form. The American people will not be fooled so easily.

"I strongly urge the Senate to reject this unconstitutional legislation."

Citizens United Launches National Ad Buy Telling President Obama, Stop Iran Now

07/06/2010

As President Obama prepares to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel today, Citizens United announced the launch of a national ad buy telling the President to stop Iran’s march towards a nuclear weapon before it’s too late. David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United, said, “from the first days of his presidential campaign through today, President Obama has displayed a dangerous naiveté when it comes to the threat that Iran poses to our allies in the Middle East and to the United States itself. History demonstrates that sanctions are not a cure-all for regimes bent on destroying other peaceful nations. The President must step up to this challenge before Iran has the opportunity to develop nuclear weapons." SCRIPT – “Words” (:30) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwHBdNwm2fo&feature=player_embedded He had good intentions. He honestly thought simply talking to your adversaries could change things. He ignored violent repression, dismissed explicit threats and believed that appeasement was the path to peace. Neville Chamberlain’s mistakes preceded a war that cost 30 million lives. If Barack Obama repeats the same mistakes today . . . and Iran gets nuclear weapons . . . how many will suffer? Mr. President: Stop Iran. Now. # # #

FEC's Decision To Grant CU The Media Exemption

06/12/2010

Citizens United President David N. Bossie Statement on FEC's Decision To Grant CU The Media Exemption:

I am very pleased that a bipartisan majority of the Federal Election Commission saw fit to grant Citizens United the media exemption. As the producers of 14 feature-length and award-winning documentaries, Citizens United is an important voice that should not be subjected to extremely burdensome campaign finance regulations simply because we are not a multi-billion dollar media corporation. Since we produced our first film in 2004, all we have ever sought is to be treated by the government in the same manner as corporate film studios and other members of the establishment media, and I thank the Commission for leveling the playing field today.

Citizens United Urges Members Of Congress To Vote Against DISCLOSE Act

06/10/2010

Today Citizens United and a coalition of over 50 other groups urged Congress to vote against the DISCLOSE Act. The DISCLOSE Act is the proposed legislative response to the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Citizens United v. FEC. If passed the DISCLOSE Act would silence the voices of millions of American's whose speech was recently restored by the Supreme Court. View the letter

Statement From David Bossie on Schumer Campaign Finance Legislation

04/29/2010

Statement From David Bossie on Schumer Campaign Finance Legislation: “This bill, like many that have come before it, is a incumbent-protection power grab dressed up in the sheep’s clothing of ‘reform.’ The bureaucratic jungle that this bill would create will force groups of modest means like Citizens United to spend thousands of dollars of donor money on a battery of attorneys and accountants. This is precisely what the Supreme Court in Citizens United v FEC sought to avoid. The overly complicated regulatory scheme that Schumer and Van Hollen have proposed will chill free speech. Many grassroots organizations will not be able to afford the necessary legal advice and will be shut out of the debate entirely. As we have seen over the last twelve months, citizens across the country are coming together to oppose the out-of-control spending and rampant deficits that the Democrat-controlled Congress and White House have overseen. These are the people who the Democrats are scared of, and it is no coincidence that these are the people they aim to silence by this bill. “Dating back to the first years of the Republic, the party in power has often sought to use its authority to silence critics for partisan advantage. The founding fathers, recognizing both the temptation and danger inherent in the power of incumbency, enshrined our absolute and inalienable right to speak out against the government in the First Amendment. Unfortunately, the Democrats have succumbed to the temptation of using their control of the levers of government to silence their critics in a cynical attempt to hold on to power during a bad election cycle. “Since January, when the Supreme Court issued its resounding defense of the First Amendment, Democrats have been wailing that the ‘people’ will be drowned out by corporations in the political debate. But Citizens United is a ‘corporation’ funded by an average donation of around $50 from hundreds of thousands of concerned citizens across the country who wish to pool their resources in pursuit of a common goal. We are the very definition of a grassroots organization – we represent the collective voice of hundreds of thousands of like-minded people. “Cloaked in the guise of ‘reform’ on behalf of ‘the people,’ this bill would make it difficult, if not impossible, for grassroots organizations like Citizens United to effectively communicate our members’ message. Acting alone, our members cannot be nearly as effective with their $50 as they are acting together, and this bill will create almost insurmountable barriers for average citizens to organize in a grassroots effort to support or oppose their own representatives.”

Citizens United Response to Castle-Van Hollen Legislation

04/20/2010

The following is a statement from Citizens United President David N. Bossie:

“Mike Castle signing on to a bill does not bipartisanship make. A Republican running for a Senate seat held by a Democrat since the 1970s has plenty of political motivation to hold hands with the Democrat leadership whenever he gets a chance.

“But more importantly, ‘bipartisan’ and ‘constitutional’ are two very different things. McCain-Feingold was bipartisan and, as the Supreme Court made very clear in January, much of that law was unconstitutional. The right to free speech is a sacred right, and legislation for the explicit purpose of restricting the ability of Americans to speak out for or against their own elected representatives is too often nothing more than an unconstitutional incumbent protection act cloaked in the guise of ‘reform.’

“As Members of Congress look at this legislation they would do well to remember the oath they swore to ‘support and defend the Constitution’ and to ‘bear true faith and allegiance to the same.’ Members who take their oath seriously have a duty to protect the First Amendment, regardless of their political ambitions.”

Citizens United Releases Results of National Opinion Poll on Campaign Finance "Reform"

03/01/2010

Today, Citizens United released the results of a nationwide poll conducted by McLaughlin and Associates on the public’s opinion of the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission and legislative efforts reacting to the decision. Contrary to the results of the recent Washington Post/ABC poll, the McLaughlin poll found that when informed of the consequences of the government’s attempts to regulate free speech during elections, public opinion sways markedly in favor of the Supreme Court’s ruling. Notably, 68% of surveyed likely voters reject the position taken by the government in Citizens United v. FEC that the First Amendment does not prohibit the government from banning books, films, and television broadcasts about federal candidates during elections. Moreover, likely voters view attempts to re-impose limits on political speech by politicians such as President Barack Obama and Rep. Chris Van Hollen with a great deal of suspicion, especially when informed that, as state legislators, they accepted direct corporate contributions. Less than 50% of those surveyed support legislation to restrict political spending when informed that media corporations and political parties are exempted. David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United, said, “The results of this poll demonstrate that the American people believe, as we argued, that the First Amendment is sacrosanct, and that attempts by incumbent politicians to limit citizens’ right to speak out against them are met with a great degree of cynicism. Incumbent politicians and media corporations, who have the most to lose in this fight, have been spreading disinformation ever since this decision came down – most notably with President Obama’s disingenuous remarks in his State of the Union. This poll demonstrates that when the American people are armed with the truth they clearly reject the unconstitutional attempts by incumbents, supported by media corporations, to limit our First Amendment rights.”

Statement From David N. Bossie: Citizens United Prevails At Supreme Court

01/21/2010

Statement From David N. Bossie, President of Citizens United

“Today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing Citizens United to air its documentary films and advertisements is a tremendous victory, not only for Citizens United but for every American who desires to participate in the political process.

“As our case amply demonstrates, campaign finance legislation over the last two decades has imposed, as Justice Kennedy put it, a “censorship . . . vast in its reach.” By overruling Austin v. Michigan Chamber of Commerce and striking down McCain-Feingold’s ban on so-called electioneering communications, the Supreme Court has made possible the participation in our political process that is the right of every American citizen – a right that had been severely curtailed under McCain-Feingold.

“This is a victory for Citizens United, but even more so for the First Amendment rights of all Americans. The fault line on this issue does not split liberals and conservatives or Republicans and Democrats. Instead, it pits entrenched establishment politicians against the very people whom they are elected to serve.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Kadish who have been incredibly generous from the very first day of this process. We would never have been able to reach the Supreme Court without their support. I also need to thank the thousands of donors who exercised their right to free speech to support Citizens United and this defense of the First Amendment.

“The Citizens United Board of Directors deserves a great deal of credit for recognizing the potential of this case and supporting my decision to take this fight head-on. I need to thank our legal team, beginning with Michael Boos, Vice President and General Counsel at Citizens United, and the leader of this tremendous legal team. That team included Jim Bopp, a man who has been fighting McCain-Feingold since its inception and did a phenomenal job with the early stages of this case. Finally, Ted Olsen, Matthew McGill, Amir Tayrani and the entire team at Gibson Dunn, are attorneys without peer and deserve a tremendous amount of credit for the work that they did on this case.

“Last and certainly not least, I need to thank my family for putting up with the long hours it took over the last four years to bring this case to the Supreme Court. I could not have done it without them.”

Citizens United and Gingrich File Amicus Brief to Protect Veterans’ Memorial

06/09/2009

Today, Citizens United joined Renewing American Leadership (ReAL), an organization founded by Speaker Newt Gingrich, in an amicus curiae brief urging the Supreme Court to protect a World War I memorial constructed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Salazar v. Buono. Despite the fact that this memorial had existed for over half a century, Frank Buono, a former employee of the Mojave National Preserve upon which the memorial was built, sued the government alleging the memorial, which consists of a Latin cross, violates the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause. The trial court and 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals took Buono’s side and ordered the Interior Department to tear down the memorial. While the case was pending, Congress passed a law authorizing a land swap that would exchange land of equal value between the federal government and the VFW, thereby placing the memorial on private ground. Despite these Congressional measures, the courts, including the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals continued to side with Buono and prohibited the display of the cross. David Bossie, President of Citizens United, which joined with Speaker Gingrich’s organization in this brief, said, “This case has serious implications for the survival of any veterans’ memorial on government land. As organizations dedicated to the preservation of traditional American values, including religious freedom and honoring those who have defended that freedom in battle, we urge the Supreme Court to reverse the lower courts and protect this memorial.” To read a copy of the brief, please click here: http://citizensunited.org/press/Amicus-Brief-Salazar-v-Buono-June8-2009.pdf.

Perfect Valor To Debut at GI Film Festival on Saturday

05/12/2009

Citizens United Productions latest documentary, Perfect Valor, narrated by actor, Westwood One Radio host, and former Senator Fred Thompson, will make its world debut at the GI Film Festival in Washington, DC on Saturday, May 16th.

Perfect Valor¸ Citizens United Productions’ 11th feature documentary is the story of Operation Phantom Fury, the 2004 battle for the control of Fallujah. Throughout this operation, American troops battled through a city of enemy insurgents, fighting house to house and street to street to seize control of the most dangerous city in the world.

Narrator Fred Thompson tells of the high price paid by U.S. forces and the legacy of that campaign as seen through the eyes of the men and women who were there, risking their lives in service to their country.

We meet a Navy Cross recipient, recognized for extraordinary gallantry under fire during the assault on Fallujah. A true American hero still haunted by his experience in Iraq. We listen to the family of a fallen Marine as they tell the story of their sacrifice. We hear the harrowing tale of a battalion surgeon who risked his own life to move an aid station forward, into the middle of the fight - a decision that saved thirty lives.

Through interviews with American servicemembers and their loved ones, Perfect Valor circumvents the filter of the mainstream media and gives the audience the chance to hear personal stories of courage and sacrifice directly from those who were there.

Using unbelievable high-definition footage and faithful recreations, Perfect Valor gives the viewer a first-hand look at what these brave servicemen and women experienced, painting a vivid picture of urban warfare. Viewers get a never-before-seen look at the experiences of American troops fighting in Iraq.

These brave men and women answered the call to serve. They deserve to be honored, and their stories deserve to be told.

If you are interested in booking Executive Producer David Bossie or a member of the cast for an interview, please contact Will Holley at the number above. To learn more about Saturday’s premiere, please visit www.gifilmfestival.com. To view a trailer for Perfect Valor or to order a DVD of the film, please visit www.perfectvalor.com.

In Case You Missed It: US Government: “We Can Ban Books”

03/26/2009

US Government: “We Can Ban Books” Dep. Solicitor General Argues Jailing Book Publishers Is Constitutional During Tuesday’s oral arguments in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the government told the Supreme Court that it has the constitutional authority to send a commercial book publisher to prison for publishing a book that contains the words “Vote for _____” within two months of an election. Below are selected editorials and op-eds from around the country supporting Citizens United’s position against the Federal Election Commission on this critical First Amendment issue. To arrange for an interview with David Bossie, President of Citizens United, please contact Will Holley at 202.547.5420 or willholley@citizensunited.org. USA TODAY OP-ED: Top court reviews 'Hillary, the movie' 3/26/09 It isn't often that a government lawyer stands before the Supreme Court and acknowledges that yes, it would be constitutional to ban a book. But that is what happened on Tuesday, as Deputy Solicitor General Malcolm Stewart defended a campaign-reform law that treated an anti-Hillary Clinton movie in 2008 as an election ad — an advertisement that could be restricted, even banned, because a corporation paid for it. WSJ EDITORIAL: Free Speech: The Movie 3/26/09 According to Deputy Solicitor General Malcolm Stewart, who argued the case, the government could theoretically regulate other forms of pre-election corporate speech as well, including books and the Internet. "That's pretty incredible," said Justice Samuel Alito. "You think that if a book was published, a campaign biography that was the functional equivalent of express advocacy, that could be banned?" Yes, Mr. Stewart said, if a corporation or union were paying for it. It would be possible to "prohibit the publication of the book using the corporate treasury funds." WASH TIMES EDITORIAL: Campaign finance law scrutinized 3/26/09 Deputy Solicitor General Malcolm Stewart's argument before the court on behalf of the Federal Election Commission that the government could use the law to stop the distribution of election-related books, electronic media to an Amazon Kindle reader, and even ads for action figures representing candidates for federal office if they are paid for by corporate funding, is incredibly disconcerting. RICHMOND TIMES EDITORIAL: The U.S. v. Books 3/26/09 The debate over the First Amendment implications of campaign-finance law reached its logical terminus in oral arguments before the Supreme Court Tuesday when lawyers for the federal government said it should be able to ban books. . . . Deputy Solicitor General Malcom Stewart said it does not matter how long a campaign commercial is, and it does not matter if the film is a quasi-documentary. A movie is no different from a campaign ad if it appeals to voters for the election or defeat of a political candidate.

Statement on GOP Chairman Michael Steele

01/30/2009

David N. Bossie released the following statement on the election of Michael Steele to the GOP Chairmanship: "As a Republican and fellow Marylander, I want to congratulate Chairman Steele on his election. As he said today, it is indeed time for something different but we must not cede ground to anyone on the matter of our principles. I could not agree more, and I look forward to working with Chairman Steele to build and grow the Republican Party."

The Constitutional Right to Listen

01/28/2009

We usually think of freedom of speech as involving the right of speakers to speak, whether through public addresses, in writing, or over radio and television airwaves. But the courts have recognized an additional dimension to First Amendment free speech rights: the right to listen and watch. This right takes center stage in a current challenge to the McCain-Feingold campaign-finance law and could play a role in the debate about the Fairness Doctrine. Every circuit appeals court has acknowledged the right to listen and watch. For example, in 2003s Rossignol v. Voorhaar, the Fourth Circuit held that the First Amendment protects the right to receive information and ideas. Similarly, in 1999s U.S. West, Inc. v. F.C.C., the Tenth Circuit held that the two components of effective speech are a speaker and an audience, and that a restriction on either of these components is a restriction on speech. In 2005s de la O v. Housing Authority of City of El Paso, the Fifth Circuit found that the right to receive information is just as protected as the right to convey it. The U.S. Supreme Court has also recognized this right. In 1986s Pacific Gas and Elec. Co. v. Public Utilities Comm. of California, the Court held that the constitutional guarantee of free speech protects significant societal interests wholly apart from the speakers interest in self-expression, including the public's interest in receiving information. And in 2000s U.S. v. Playboy Entertainment Group, Inc., the Court ruled that, under the First Amendments free-speech clause, the citizen is entitled to seek out or reject certain ideas or influences without government interference or control. All this raises the question of whether McCain-Feingold, which restricts political speech by both campaign and non-campaign organizations, violates citizens right to hear pertinent messages. Thanks to a new case, Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the Supreme Court may answer that question. In 2007, the non-profit group Citizens United financed from its own corporate treasury the production of a feature-length documentary film about Hillary Clinton. The movie focused on past Hillary scandals including the firing and subsequent criminal prosecution of the White House Travel Office staff, repeated campaign-finance-law violations, and the presidential pardon while Hillary was seeking the endorsement of Puerto Rican activists for her Senate campaign of a Puerto Rican terrorist convicted of murder. The Federal Election Commission prohibited broadcast of the movie in 2008, when Hillary was running for president, because its financing did not comply with McCain-Feingold restrictions. Last week the American Civil Rights Union (of which I am general counsel) filed a brief with the Supreme Court supporting Citizens United's argument that this broadcast prohibition violated the Constitutions free-speech guarantee. One of the briefs arguments was that the prohibition violated the rights of citizens who wanted to watch and listen to the movie. This overlooked constitutional right is also central in the possibly pending battle over readoption of the Fairness Doctrine by the Obama administration. Besides the constitutional free-speech rights of broadcasters and talk-show hosts, the doctrine would violate the audiences constitutionally protected right to listen. Those advancing the Fairness Doctrines revival are not interested in balance; they are interested in shutting down critics. Obama revealed his thinking about talk radio in his recent attack on Rush Limbaugh, in which he urged Republicans not to listen to the popular host. This indicates how much trouble Obama thinks talk radio is for his agenda, which may mean that his interest in using the Fairness Doctrine to shut it down will be high. The coming years, then, are fraught with hope and peril for First Amendment rights not just the right to speak, but also the right to listen. -Peter Ferrara is a senior fellow at the Free Enterprise Fund, director of entitlement and budget policy at the Institute for Policy Innovation, and general counsel for the American Civil Rights Union.

Democrat Stimulus Package Heavy on Pork, Light on Jobs

01/27/2009

Despite promises of reform from both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue over the last two years, the $825 billion stimulus package written without even a fig leaf of bipartisanship contains astronomical sums of pork barrel spending that will do nothing to create jobs for unemployed Americans. A glance at some of the more egregious provisions of the bill reveals such job-free spending as: 1. $200 million for National Mall repairs including grass planting 2. $6 billion to make Federal Buildings more energy efficient 3. $600 million for analog televisions 4. $300 million rebates for purchasing energy efficient appliances Even worse, just one day after 70,000 jobs were lost, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office announced that it would take 1.5 years for 2/3 of the $825 billion to reach the economy. "This is not a time for political favors to be doled out at the expense of Americans who are unemployed and in need of jobs, said David Bossie, President of Citizens United. Yesterday, 70,000 Americans woke up to the news that they no longer have jobs. How will spending $200 million of their hard earned money on sod for the National Mall help them pay their kids college tuition or their mortgages?"

In The News - "No Internet Taxes On My Watch"

06/04/2008

National Journal - No Internet Taxes On My Watch

Although he has yet to go on the air, New Hampshire Republican John Sununu has received a boost from conservative nonprofit Citizens United as he attempts to defend his Senate seat from former Gov. Jeanne Shaheen (D).

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"Citizens United is an organization dedicated to the principles of lower taxation and limited government, so we believe very strongly that the Internet should remain free from government interference and tax collectors," said organization spokesman Will Holley. "And Senator Sununu has far and away been the leader for preventing that from happening."

Click here to read the whole story

CU Files Suit over Limits for Issue Ads

12/14/2007

Washington, D.C. As it prepares to release its hard-hitting political documentary, Hillary: The Movie, Citizens United, a grassroots advocacy organization, led by election law attorney James Bopp, Jr., today filed suit against the Federal Election Commission, arguing that issue-oriented television ads are protected by the First Amendment and should not be subject to disclosure requirements under McCain-Feingold campaign finance law.

At issue are sections of the 2002 Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (McCain-Feingold) that imposed a blackout period before elections on television advertisements that mentioned the name of a federal candidate -- electioneering communications. Earlier this year, the United States Supreme Court, in Federal Election Commission vs. Wisconsin Right to Life, ruled that groups could not be prohibited from running genuine issue ads, during the blackout period, but the FEC has insisted that such groups must still put disclaimers on the ads and file reports about the ads, including naming their contributors. Citizens United is challenging these disclosure requirements, arguing the ads for the film, Hillary: The Movie, is a commercial ad, exempted in recent FEC rulemaking, and that disclosure requirements cannot be applied to such ads consistent with the First Amendment.

Citizens United has retained James Bopp, Jr., the Indiana attorney who successfully argued the Wisconsin Right to Life case.

In a complaint filed with the U.S. District Court today, Bopp asserts that Citizens United intends to publish advertisements that will meet the statutory definition of electioneering communicationsbut are not properly considered electioneering communications for any purpose, including disclosure, because the ads may reasonably be interpreted as something other than as an appeal to vote for our against a specific candidate, are not the functional equivalent of express advocacy and therefore fall outside the scope for McConnells holding.

Citizens United has asked for an injunction so that they may begin running their ads by the first of the year.

Citizens United to Sue CNN

12/04/2007

Washington, D.C. — Citizens United and its president, David Bossie, today issued the following statement: “Citizens United (CU), and its President David Bossie, have retained counsel to pursue claims against CNN for reporting in a November 28th CNN show called Broken Government – ‘Campaign Killers,’ hosted by Campbell Brown, that David Bossie and CU were part of a ‘fringe militia.’ CU through counsel will seek a formal apology and public retraction of those statements, and for calling Bossie a ‘dirty trickster.’ If no retraction is forthcoming, CU will then bring legal action to hold CNN accountable for these and other misrepresented facts. These baseless allegations were a disservice to CU and its 500,000 members, CNN and its audience, and to general principles of responsible, fact-based journalism.”

Attacking Gov. O'Malley's Tax Hike

11/05/2007

Washington, D.C.—Citizens United, a prominent conservative grassroots advocacy organization with members throughout the state of Maryland, is unveiling a major television advertisement campaign condemning Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley's (D) proposed tax hike. O'Malley's controversial $2 billion tax hike would lead to higher sales, income, and gas taxes for Marylanders. The ad spoofs a well-known state tourism spot touting Maryland's beautiful beaches and modern cities, and says that tourism won't matter if nobody can afford to live in such a high-tax state. The ad contends that the unprecedented increase will punish Marylanders and reduce living standards. The weeklong television ad campaign will begin Monday and air on the ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX affiliates in Baltimore, as well as on FOX News Channel in Montgomery and Prince Georges counties. "Governor O'Malley's $2 billion tax hike is bad policy that will have disastrous consequences for Maryland and its economy," said Citizens United president David Bossie. "This tax increase will hurt working Marylanders. Maryland’s legislators would be wise to listen to their constituents and stop Governor O’Malley’s liberal tax-and-spend plan." The script reads: "Discover Maryland!...Busy Cities…Beautiful beaches…Quiet back roads…Mountain getaways…And really high taxes." "Yet now Governor O’Malley plans to push Maryland taxes even higher…Higher sales tax…Higher income tax…Higher gas tax." "Tell your legislators to stop O’Malley’s $2 billion tax hike…Maryland’s a great place to visit. It’d be nice to afford to keep living here." To arrange an interview with David Bossie, please contact Quin Hillyer at 202-577-3844 or qhillyer@citizensunited.org or Stephen Manfredi at Shirley & Banister Public Affairs at 703-739-5920 or smanfredi@sbpublicaffairs.com.

Immigration Bill Threatens National Security

06/27/2007

New Ad Campaign Featuring Newt Gingrich Blasts Amnesty Bill Washington, D.C.—Citizens United, a prominent Washington-based conservative grassroots advocacy organization is unveiling a major television advertisement condemning the controversial immigration bill now being considered by Congress. The ad, which features former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and which was produced by Citizens United president David Bossie, will be seen on cable television nationwide beginning Wednesday as part of a significant national ad buy aimed at demonstrating citizen opposition to a bill that would do nothing to secure America’s porous borders and give citizenship to more than 12 million illegal immigrants. “The new McCain-Kennedy bill is a grave threat to America’s national security and the rule of law. Almost six years after 9/11, Congress is failing to secure America’s borders. This bill does nothing to distinguish between a terrorist, gang member, or migrant worker crossing our border. Legalizing millions of illegal workers rewards cheaters and makes our laws irrelevant. The outcome will be disastrous if Congress doesn’t listen to the American people,” said David Bossie. The ad features Newt Gingrich. The script reads: “Mohammad Atta and several other 9/11 hijackers were in the United States illegally.” “Today, more than 5 years since that tragic day, our borders remain open to gangs, drug dealers, and terrorists. But instead of protecting the borders, the new McCain-Kennedy immigration plan will instead put millions of people who are in our country illegally, including potential terrorists and gang members, on a path to US Citizenship. The bill does not even allow convicted criminals to be deported.” “This is wrong…” Citizens United is a 500,000 member Washington, D.C. based conservative grassroots advocacy organization dedicated to restoring our government to citizens’ control. Citizens United seeks to reassert the traditional American values of limited government, freedom of enterprise, strong families, and national sovereignty and security. Citizens United's goal is to restore the founding father's vision of a free nation, guided by the honesty, common sense, and good will of its citizens. To arrange an interview with David Bossie, please contact Stephen Manfredi at Shirley & Banister Public Affairs at smanfredi@sbpublicaffairs.com or 703-739-5920. To arrange an interview with Newt Gingrich contact Rick Tyler at ricktyler@newt.org or 540-338-1250.

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Citizens United Files Brief in Landmark Campaign-Finance Case

06/27/2007

Supreme Court urged to strike down ban on corporate ads WASHINGTON, DC— On Friday, March 23, Citizens United, a conservative advocacy organization, filed an amicus brief asking the Supreme Court to strike down a key provision of the McCain-Feingold campaign finance law, which bans corporations from sponsoring TV and radio ads that refer to a federal candidate in the weeks preceding an election. Noting that the First Amendment was “ratified . . . to keep Congress’s hands off the political process,” the brief accuses the Federal Election Commission and congressional supporters of the ban of having “relegated [the Amendment’s] freedoms of speech, press, assembly, and petition to near obscurity in their briefs.” “Neither brief contains quotes from, or even paraphrases, the First Amendment text, and each dispenses completely with any analysis based upon that text—notwithstanding this Court’s salutary rule of construction that ‘every word of the Constitution must have its due force, and appropriate meaning.” Citizens United filed its brief in FEC v. Wisconsin Right to Life, which centers on a series of TV ads that Wisconsin Right to Life sought to run before the 2004 elections. The ads encouraged Wisconsin residents to contact their two U.S. senators and urge them to oppose the filibuster of President Bush’s judicial nominees. The FEC contends the ads were illegal, because they would have been paid for, in part, with corporate funds and they referred by name to Senator Russ Feingold, a candidate for re-election at the time. “McCain-Feingold is such a bad piece of legislation that it has made allies out of adversaries like Wisconsin Right to Life and the ACLU in a true battle over free speech,” said Citizens United President David N. Bossie. “With the appointment of two new justices since the Supreme Court ruled on this law three years ago, we are hopeful for a more favorable outcome this time.” The Supreme Court will hear arguments in the case on April 25, and a decision is expected by the end of June. A copy of the Citizens United brief is available at http://www.citizensunited.org/docs/0003.pdf.