06.05.08
Posted in District 31, Election 2008, State Convention at 3:20 pm by bpruiz
After months of anticipation, the Ruiz for Congress Campaign will hold its first statewide fundraiser near the State Democratic Party Convention in Austin, Texas. The event will take place on Friday, June 6th from 4pm to 9pm at Parkside Restaurant, 301 East 6th Street. District 31’s Democratic Congressional Nominee, Brian P. Ruiz, is expected to address guests around 7:30pm.
Brian P. Ruiz, the Democratic nominee, is taking on Republican incumbent John Carter. In the primary, Ruiz received the most votes of any non-incumbent congressional candidate in the state of Texas in either party. Ruiz has been applauded by many in the district for his pledge to refuse to take special interest and PAC money in this election.
The Texas Democratic Party Convention begins today with several receptions taking place this evening and goes through Saturday, June 7th. “My district covers over seven different counties and the State Convention presents a unique opportunity to bring many of my supporters together for one cause, a victory in November,” said Ruiz.
Along with many supporters, some noted attendees of Congressional Nominee Ruiz’s fundraiser include:
Elected Officials
Victor Gonzales (Pflugerville City Councilman)
Felix Madrid (Hutto City Councilman)
Tim Mahoney (ACC Board of Trustees)
Michael Langford (Hamilton County Democratic Chair)
Candidates
Diana Maldonado (State Representative District 52)
Mark Thompson (Railroad Commissioner)
Woodie Jones (Chief Justice 3rd Court of Appeals)
Jaime Lynn (Williamson County Attorney)
Jimmy Rocha (SD-5 Committeeman)
Special Guests
Stephen Wyman (former candidate State Senate District 5)
Karen Felthauser (former candidate SR-52)
Jim Stauber (former candidate SR-20)
Tickets are available for purchase in advance at www.ruizforcongress.com and can also be purchased at the door for $25 for individuals, $40 for couples.
Permalink
04.21.08
Posted in Democratic Events, District 31, Williamson County at 3:56 pm by bpruiz
I started advising Brian last year, but recently was asked and I accepted the responsibility to become Campaign Manager. I have been on the campaign trail with Brian and have met several of you. I, personally, want to thank you for your continued support. If you haven’t met me, let me tell you right now – I am to the point. I have committed myself to this campaign in order for Brian Ruiz to be elected as District 31’s next Congressman. With that stated, let me apologize ahead of time if I come across slight abrupt.
Brian is also my brother. Although we are family, we are very different from each other. Just like many of you, we have different feelings and views on the Democratic Presidential candidates. But, we work well together in this campaign to unify the party and continue the momentum created this election year.
Brian is not a seasoned politician and doesn’t claim to be one. He is running for Congress to represent ALL of Texas Congressional District 31.
We are extremely busy drafting positioning papers, making public appearances and securing financial contributions. We are working feverishly to meet or exceed our April goal of $20,000. We are doing our part to raise the money needed to win in November. All we are asking the voters of District 31 is $10 each. We understand the economic strain put upon you during these trying economic times.
Think about this: Congressman John Carter owns several million dollars of oil company stock. (I wanted to say, “Every time you fill up your car or truck…â€, but who does that these days?) Every time you pump gas into your vehicle, you are essentially contributing to Congressman Carter’s campaign. Congressman Carter is dependent on the oil industry. He is personally invested. How does that represent you?
Brian believes in energy independence and wants to end the US foreign oil addiction.
As Campaign Manager, I have been going through all of Brian’s writings and positions on various issues from his educational and professional years. Along with the original “Together We Can!†speech he gave in middle school, I also ran across some of Brian’s radio projects – some of which were never aired. One of the projects I ran across was a radio tribute to Pat Tillman. Cpl. Tillman will have past away 4 years ago this Tuesday, April 22nd. I thought this should be released again to continue to raise awareness and concern for ALL our servicemen (active, reserve, veteran and deceased).
As a USAF veteran, I was moved by this tribute to a great “American Soldier.†I asked Brian about the history of this tribute and believe his thoughts needed to be shared with all of you. I discovered a story that I didn’t even know.
“…after I produced this tribute I seriously considered joining the service to do my part. I went into a Marines recruiting office on North Lamar (in Austin) and met an old high school classmate that was now a Marine recruiter. We spoke for a long time and he recommended that I go through ROTC. I started training so I could physically meet the requirements and had even longer conversations with my fiancé about this decision. I could enroll and do basic training during the summer of 2004 and be back for my wedding on September 4th and then leave two weeks later for active duty.
After hours of contemplation and prayer, I decided not to join based upon my emotions. A month later I learned about the lies of Tillman’s death and it made me wonder, ‘how many other young men and women signed on before learning the true story?’
About a year later, I found myself asking the same question regarding the misinformation we were told before invading Iraq. Today, I am noticing the lengths we go to for recruitment and retention and clever ways to ensure the goals are met, but inhibit the veterans of the Iraq war from being adequately compensated for their duty to this country.â€
Brian P. Ruiz
With so much going on Tuesday (Earth Day and Pennsylvania Democratic Primary), I thought we should take time to remember Cpl. Tillman and address the “war†in Iraq to remind the voters how Rep. Carter addresses this issue. You have probably heard Congressman Carter state,
“this is not a war in Iraq, this is just a battle. It’s the battle for Iraq in the ‘war on terror.’†- NOW Transcript, November 2006
This is a statement that he has used repeatedly over the last couple of years and continues to use it to this day. This is his way of justifying our occupation in Iraq and deflecting the focus away from the primary objective of “War On Terror†– Osama Bin Laden. This “war†cannot achieve victory without its primary objective being met.
“…the Iraq war, in my particular district, is very—very supported by people. The present state of the war is 62 percent favorable in my district.â€- NOW Transcript, November 2006 Congressman John Carter.
This is the same person who claims to be consistent on his views on Iraq. How can he call Iraq a battle when he himself is on record referring it as a war? Also, 62% of District 31 is in favor of the war? I am not sure where is getting his numbers, but they probably need to be fired. If the voters of District 31 really believe this, then why did the Ruiz for Congress campaign receive approximately 12,000 more votes than Congressman Carter in the March 4th primary?
I understand many of you might perceive this to be negative towards Congressman Carter. I am only stating facts and referencing his statements. It is time for the voters to hold him accountable. I have committed to Brian and will publicly commit to the people of District 31, our message and campaign will not change. We will not accept PAC money! This campaign is about YOU! If you are ready for change, then contribute, donate, volunteer and most importantly – go vote.
I am a proponent of the political process - let the voters decide. If the sentiments from the voters are true, then in November, I am confident that Brian will be preparing to be inaugurated.
We are continuing to update our website to create a more interactive environment. If you haven’t seen it lately, you may not even recognize it now. If anyone wants to donate their time to help us keep it updated, we would greatly appreciate it. Also, we have begun accepting resumes for full-time/part-time staffers.
Meet the Candidate: Brian Ruiz will be attending the upcoming events April 26-27 Red Poppy Festival Georgetown, TX If you would like to host a fundraiser for Brian, know of an event or meeting we should attend, please contact me:
Abel C. Ruiz
Campaign Manager
Ruiz for Congress
ruiz@ruizforcongress.com
(512) 686-4257
Permalink
02.14.08
Posted in Commentary, District 31, Uncategorized at 6:41 pm by bpruiz
(Guest post by Democratic candidate for Congress in TX-31 Brian Ruiz)Â
A few years ago I took a summer class at St. Edward’s University that helped shine a light on many minority issues we face today. My professor had lived through many tough days and showed videos of injustices throughout our country. It was made clear that there are still a lot of prejudgments made of people and how racism still exist today, despite what our congressman would say.
That class was unforgettable. We had lively discussions and we were in awe, as our professor would share his life stories. Well, it saddened me today to find out that this unforgettable professor, Raul Salinas, has passed away.
Since that class I had gone to his Resistencia bookstore on South 1st Street to see Raul and learn more. In that store I learned about the daily lives of day workers and the tough lives they live. Illegal or not I learned that many of them are good, hard working people that just want a better life for their family. As a father of two I understand this now more than ever.
I regret that I was not able to tell Raul about my candidacy for United States Congress but one thing is for sure, his life impacted mine and I am a better person for this. Raul, thank you and I’ll make sure I don’t forget your teachings as I walk my first steps into the United States Capitol as District 31’s new Congressman.
Permalink
01.07.08
Posted in Central Texas, District 31, Election 2008, Good Stuff, Take Action, Williamson County at 11:06 am by bpruiz
(Guest post by Democratic candidate for TX-31 Brian Ruiz)Â
Last week I was welcomed by the Texas Democratic party as the nominee for the representative for Congress in District 31. The following day, over two hundred and thirty thousand democrats turned out to vote in the Iowa caucuses, catapulting Barack Obama, the youthful Senator from Illinois, into a sweeping first victory. A small state, with a population of less than three million people, sent a message not only to their fellow Democrats but to the entire nation that they are ready for change.
Champions of change exist throughout history as some of the world’s greatest success stories. This does not always mean that they were the most popular choice initially. Without great adversity, there would be no great triumphs. People look at District 31 as a historically conservative district, where a Republican candidate is more likely to win. But as we saw in Iowa last week, Democrats and Independents are turning out in record numbers to prove that the 2008 election is going to be taken back by the people. In November, District 31 has the opportunity to send the same message as the Iowans did last week. This starts with every person in the community creating a message of hope and change with their neighbors. On Friday, over 100 people attended the Williamson County Democratic Party kickoff event, where I had the chance to speak to members of Williamson County about my platform and the improved standard of living that I pledge to create for the citizens of District 31.
The results in Iowa last week are more than just statistics and percentages. Iowa showed us that in 2008, the status quo in Washington, D.C. has the ability to change for the better. I ask for your support in this election so we can unite America and rise above partisanship together. Be a part of the message that Iowa started: we are ready for change.
Brian P. Ruiz
Congressional Candidate
District 31
Permalink
12.09.07
Posted in 2008 Primary, Congress, District 31, Good Stuff, Take Action, Williamson County at 10:23 pm by bpruiz
There are so many issues that I feel need to be addressed but I would like to concentrate on what I feel are key issues, the ones that affect all of us. It is my job as your representative to be the voice of the majority and to speak up on your behalf regarding the things that we as a District not only want but need to have happen. This is not a job for one person, it is our responsibility to begin bringing about the changes that need to happen, I intend to be your voice, and I believe that together we can.
A major catalyst for change, in my opinion, is reigning in the current practice of fiscal irresponsibility that is affecting everyone. Spend today borrow from tomorrow is a practice that I will not support, this does nothing but further damage the already unstable economy and will only work to harm the generations to come. I do not intend to allow our children to suffer due to the current irresponsibility to be blamed directly on the misguided decisions of today. It is my intention to work with Congress to implement a much more pragmatic form of spending, for example the Pay As You Go philosophy. Through the implementation of this philosophy I want to show the people that our economy can once again be a promising one, one that will allow for long term positive affects for not only our generation but for the young people who will soon stand in our shoes.
On Tuesday I will make my run for the Congressional Seat in District 31 official by announcing my candidacy at a press conference to be held at the Texas Democratic Party Headquarters. The announcement will take place at 11:30 AM December 11th at 505 W. 12th Street Austin, TX. I look forward to seeing many supportive faces there to kick off my “Together We Can†Campaign.
Permalink
10.24.07
Posted in 2008 Primary, Congress, District 31, Election 2008, Money In Politics at 9:38 am by bpruiz
As a committed husband and a dedicated father, I understand the daily struggles of family life. Consequently, there are three issues which keep me awake at night: education, health care, and retirement. I worry about the affordability, rising costs and being able to send my two young kids to college; I get a panicked feeling when someone in my family needs medical care; and I don’t see how I’m going to be able to retire with dignity.
When I gaze upon our political leaders, I can’t help but have an uncertainty where their true allegiances lie. Typically, a potential candidate may have a law degree, wealthy friends, endorsements and numerous connections to help raise a lot of money to make them ‘viable’.
This mindset needs to change; the politics in Washington, D.C., and inside the Beltway as well as our native Texas needs to change. There are too many influences (lobbyist and special interest groups) that sway candidates away from truly representing families and individuals. Today, I look at my family, finances and I know I could never monetarily afford to support a candidate to these lengths.
Therefore, I have decided to dedicate the Ruiz for Congress Campaign to the hard working families and individuals who feel they are not whole-heartedly represented in the political process and the U.S. Congress with the 199 Pledge. With a pledge of $199 between now and October 2008 ($16.50/mo.), you can help my campaign become a ‘viable’ political machine as well.
I’ll not accept a dime from PAC’s (Political Action Committees) or special interest groups. My allegiance will be clear and concise — I’m representing you!
This is why the Ruiz for Congress Campaign is dedicated and committed to bringing uncompromising representation to District 31 as your Congressional Representative with the 199 Pledge.
Outside influences weld too much power on our political leaders. This is my and your chance to make a difference in District 31. I need your support and will not take it for granted. As a Christian, I consider your donations as a blessing because you will be giving your hard-earned money to an unknown. But, I promise you that I won’t just be a voice crying out in the wilderness. I will be a loud voice standing up and representing the hard-working constituents in District 31.
To pledge submit your information to info@ruizforcongress.com
Thank you
Permalink
09.24.07
Posted in Central Texas, Commentary, Congress, District 31, Election 2008 at 7:51 pm by bpruiz
(Welcome Brian P. Ruiz to Eye on Williamson. He’s running against John Carter in CD-31. Be sure and read more about him at his web site www.ruizforcongress.com. He’s started a blog a ruizforcongress.blogspot.com. Drop him a few bucks if you can at his Act Blue page.)Â
Think about the average American’s daily expenses: health care, childcare, student loans, high interest credit cards, high gasoline prices. The list goes on and on. We are told by our President that by helping citizens of other countries realize their dreams, we are promoting peace and security here at home. However, our own country’s lower and middle classes are currently not able to dream without taking a huge risk. Many Americans spend their time worrying that they may get sick and incur costly medical expenses or fall behind on credit card bills and ruin their credit. All of this is accumulating into a lifestyle that leaves little room for taking risks and dwindling chances for reaching the American Dream.
I confront the same concerns every day. I have chosen to take a huge risk because the middle class no longer has a voice in Congress. Many representatives in Congress do not relate to or understand the struggles that the middle class endures in their day-to-day lives. As a father of two, I now see this world starting to head in the wrong direction. This is why I have decided to declare my candidacy for United States Congress in District 31. I believe it is time for Congress to relinquish one of their seats for a true representative of District 31 and help get our nation back on track.
- Brian P. Ruiz
Permalink