Griffin - Clipbook

8/6/2019 Griffin - Clipbook

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TIM GRIFFIN (AR-02)

Top Headlines After Big Gains in Arkansas, Did GOP Stumble on Medicare [Arkansas News, 5/29/11] Arkansas GOP freshmen look inside Beltway for early fundraising [Arkansas News,4/24/11] Republicans Withdraw Support for Pickens Bill [Politico,5/26/11] Defense Fund is Focus of Debate Over Earmarks [USA Today, 6/16/11] Tim Griffin Earns a Koch Payday [Arkansas Times, 7/22/11]

At Town Halls, Griffin Grilled By Both Sides [Arkansas Democrat Gazette, 8/4/11] Discontent with Washington Could Spell Trouble for Incumbents [Arkansas News, 10/16/11]

Editorials

Top Quotes

Top Videos

Budget Issues

Griffin Voted to Disapprove of Raising Debt Limit

In January 2012, the U.S. House voted on a symbolic measure against raising the debt limit amid pollsshowing approval of Congress at an historic low.

Representative Tim Griffin, an Arkansas Republican who supported last years deal, said he sees nocontradiction between that vote and going on the record today against the increase. [Bloomberg,1/18/12]

Suggested That Cutting Spending Alone Wouldnt Matter to the Deficit

In 2011, Griffin suggested that you could eliminate a lot of things but it wouldnt matter to the deficit. Alot of [the things] you think of as the federal government you could eliminate it and you still would berunning a negative balance [YouTube, 11/3/11]

Griffin: We have to put the CR process behind us

After voting for the March 15 CR, Tim Griffin said that Congress had to put the CR process behind them:

I am proud to vote for real cuts to federal spending totaling $6 billion, and there is muchmore to be done. I do not want to shut down the government. We need to end the cycle ofshort-term continuing resolutions, so it is important that our friends in the Senate come to
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an agreement on a serious long-term solution like H.R. 1 passed by the House in February.At some point we have to put the CR process behind us so we can work on the FY2012budget and save Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. [Griffin official press release,3/15/11]

Hoped Ryan Budget Becomes Law

On CBSs Face the Nation, Griffin said that I certainly hope that what weve passed in the Ryan or theHouse budget, I hope that that becomes law at some point. [CBS Face The Nation, 4/24/11]

Griffin Denied Budget Privatizes Medicare or Creates Voucher System

On CBS Face the Nation, Griffin admited that if youre under fifty-five, yes, there will be changes toMedicare, but he denies that Republicans do not privatize [Medicare] and there is not a voucher system.Griffin said that he hears that a lot and its not true. [CBS Face The Nation,4/24/11]

On KTHV, Griffin said when I hear people say that this person or that person wants to destroy Medicareas we know it. I say Hog Wash.

Griffin Compared Medicare Plan to Members of Congress

On KTHV, Griffin thought that the Ryan Medicare Budget plan will leave Medicare as strong as everand compares plan to those of federal employees or Members of Congress. Griffin said, For those under55, Medicare is still going to be there. It's going to be as strong as ever, but it will be different. It will belike what federal employees have where you chose your insurance and the government pays and you payin as a shared deal. It's not a voucher. Youre hear privatization. You're hearing vouchers. Nonsense. Thisis not privatization. It's like what Members of Congress and Federal Employees have and I've never heardprivatize our health care called privatized. [KTHV, 4/22/11]

Arkansans Skeptical of Medicare

Numerous Arkansas from Republican House Members district interviewed by the Arkansas NewsBureau expressed skepticism about the Ryan Plan:

I think that the sickest people would not get the health care that they need, said Pam Barton ofJonesboro, a pawn shop manager. I think (Medicare) definitely needs to be tweaked, I think itneeds lots of overhaul, but I dont think the voucher system would work.

I dont think much of it, said John Spann of Little Rock, who is retired and eligible forMedicare. Weve got a good system. Why change it?

Spann, who voted for Griffin in 2010, said the bill clearly is aimed at ending the program. Eventhough they dont say it is, it is, he said.

Kevin Woolman of Rogers, who runs an antique store with his wife, said he voted for Womack,R-Rogers, and he strongly opposes the federal health care overhaul signed into law last year byPresident Obama Theyre mandating how youre going to live, he said but he alsoopposes replacing Medicare with a voucher system. Woolman said he would support an option in

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there for the public to go private, but just straight privatized, no. Insurance companies are thieves,theres just no other way to put it.

David Pitman of Little Rock, who works for a sand company, said Medicare provides guaranteedcoverage, but with the vouchers, youre going to have to go search (for private insurance). I dontsee it working.

Ed Tarvin of Elkins, a lawyer, said that messing with Medicare is not OK.

When Republicans were wanting to privatize Social Security, just imagine after the crash of 08where we would have been if that plan would have gotten through, he said.

Additionally, The Arkansas News Bureau noted that under Ryans plan Medicare would not change forpeople who are now 55 or older, but everyone else would, upon reaching age 65, receive federal vouchersto purchase private health insurance instead of being insured through Medicare. [Arkansas News Bureau,4/24/11]

Griffin: No Interest in Shutting Down the Government

In February 2011, Crawford said Nobody on our side has any interest in shutting down the government.Our interest is in getting the budget under control. [Times Record, 2/22/11]

Opposed Arkansas Construction Projects Due to Limited Funding

During a 2011 town hall meeting, Griffin promised to fight for legitimate funding for legitimateservices in Arkansas, but said there were projects in the state that should not have taken place because offunding limitations. As an example, he mentioned the pedestrian bridge across the Arkansas River. [TheSaline Courier, 2/03/11]

Pledged to Oppose Raising the National Debt without Spending Cuts

During a 2011 town hall meeting, Griffin said, I will not vote to raise the national debt limit as a stand-alone measure. [The Saline Courier, 2/03/11]

Griffin: Not Raising the Debt Ceiling Might be Disasterous

According to the Arkansas News Bureau, Griffin said not raising the debt ceiling by sometime in Marchmight be immediately disastrous. [Arkansas News Bureau, 2/07/11]

Griffin Will Vote Against Debt Ceiling Without Credible Plan

In April 2011, Griffin said he would vote against raising the U.S. government's $14.3 trillion debtceiling, expected to be reached in May, without a credible deficit-reduction plan. He said he wasconfident a plan would emerge in time to avoid a default. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/22/11]

Griffin a No Vote on Debt Ceiling

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In April 2011, Griffin did an interview with Talk Business and stated that he was currently a "no" voteon raising the country's debt ceiling, but he did lay out philosophical terms for converting his position.His philosophical terms included some substantive, structural changes agreed to by the President and theSenate so that we can know that we're going to take that spending curve that is skyrocketing upward andstart bending it down so that we can see some end to this mess." [Talk Business,5/2/11]

Griffin A No Vote on Debt Ceiling

In May 2011, Tim Griffin voted against raising the debt ceiling saying that I voted No to raising thenational debt limit and will remain opposed to raising it without serious structural spending reform.Neither the President nor Senator Reid has a plan to deal with the federal governments out-of-controlspending, but the House does. They should adopt the Houses reforms to save Medicare, reduce spendingand encourage private-sector job creation. I understand the gravity of what is at stake and addressing theroot cause of the debtout-of-control spendingis the only way forward. [Tim Griffin Press Release,5/31/2011]

Confident in His Support for Ryan Plan

In May 2011, Griffin criticized the Democrats and expressed his confidence in the Republican proposalput forward to reform Medicare. Griffin said that The folks criticizing our action on Medicare, theyrenot talking about their plan versus our plan, because they dont have a plan. If you want to destroyMedicare, you would keep it just as it is because Medicare goes bankrupt in about a decade.

According to Arkansas News, he also made a positive prediction about the 2012 elections, saying thatOver the next year people will get all the facts, and I believe that we ultimately will be seen as we are,which is trying to solve a very difficult problem. [Arkansas News,05/29/2011]

Added Controversial Amendments to Defense Authorization Bill

In May 2011, according to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Griffin added a number of controversialamendments to the Defense Authorization Bill. According to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette , the firstadded amendment would require the Secretary of Defense and the director of national intelligence to beconsulted when alien suspects are arrested on terrorism charges. The second and third amendmentswould increase spending on flight simulators, similar to those used at Little Rock Air Force Base to trainC-130 pilots, and to require the Pentagon to update Congress as it revamps its financial-auditing process.

President Obama called Griffins terror-suspect language problematic and unnecessary and said that"This provision would undermine, rather than enhance, this coordination by requiring institutions toassume unfamiliar roles and could cause delays in taking into custody individuals who pose imminent

threats to the nation's safety." [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 05/27/2011]

Pushed for More Responsible DOD Spending

In July 2011, Griffin pushed for greater DOD reform, asking the Defense Department to be moreresponsible with taxpayer money.

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Griffin explained that Over the past two decades, DoD has attempted broad reforms to improve itsfinancial management; however, the Government Accountability Office stated that efforts have notresulted in any resolution to long-standing financial management weaknesses. There continue to benumerous federal programs and operations within DoD that are at a high-risk of vulnerability to waste,fraud, abuse, and mismanagement. [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 7/7/2011]

Had Unusually High Amount of Calls Due to Debt Ceiling

In July 2011, Griffins office reported that they had received an unusually high number of calls andemails from constituents concerned about the debt issue, since the president and House Speaker JohnBoehner addressed the nation Monday night.

Griffin explained that Im hearing from all sidesSome people say get some sort of resolution as soonas possible, while other folks say stand firm. [KUAR, 7/27/2011]

Indirectly Called Out by Governor of Arkansas

In July 2011, Gov. Mike Beebe of Arkansas said that Republicans are so entrenched that theyre ready forthe country to default.

According to Beebe, They are apparently so entrenched that theyre ready to allow this country to default,with all of the economic consequences that that brings with itTheyre up to the licklog, and theydbetter sit down and figure out how they solve this problem.

He also concluded that it sounds to me like its the Republican majority in the House that has just drawna line in the sand. [Arkansas Times, 7/27/2011]

Supportive of Boehner Debt Plan

In July 2011, a number of freshman Republicans, including Griffin, announced that they would vote infavor of the Boehner Debt Plan.

According to the SW Times, Womack, Griffin and Crawford appeared Thursday morning at a newsconference aimed at dispelling rumors that the 87-member freshman class was cemented to a cut, capand balance bill that passed the House last week only to be shelved by the Senate on Friday.

Griffin explained that the vast majority of Republican freshmen would support Boehners bill eventhough it was not everything they desired. [SW Times,7/29/2011]

Voted In Favor of Boehner Budget Control Act

In July 2011, Griffin voted for the Boehner Budget Control Act.

Griffin explained that Speaker Boehners plan moves us forward by resolving the debt ceiling issue andaddressing our ballooning debt. Its not perfect, but it is a good bill that offers the Senate and PresidentObama a common-sense proposal: It cuts spending now, imposes caps on future spending, sets up a path

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forward on entitlement reform, calls for a balanced budget amendment and doesnt raise taxes onAmericas job creators at a time when jobs are scarce. [Griffin Press Release,7/29/2011]

Focused on the wrong issues?

In August 2011, Griffin expressed surprises that constituents werent more interested in talking about thedebt ceiling.

According to Griffin, I was shocked. Although I talked a lot about the debt ceiling, there wasnt a lot oftalk about the debt ceiling [from constituents]I thought that would dominate the discussions and it justdidnt [People asked about] jobs, taxes and our debt. [The Hill,8/7/2011]

Said That He Didnt Want to Roll the Dice

In August 2011, Griffin told a group of constituents that he was not happy with the debt ceiling deal butdid not want to roll the dice on what may have happened.

Griffin explained that "I was not happy with it. I did not celebrate it. I did not think it would structurallychange our trajectory of spending." [AR State Wire, 8/5/2011]

According to Talk Business, "I was worried about August 2nd," Griffin said in reference to a projecteddeadline for defaulting on U.S. debt. "I was worried about the impact that it was going to have on worldmarkets, our credit rating and even our interest rates we pay on our loans on our debt. If that goes up alittle bit, it will erase a lot of the things we've been trying to do to get our budget and our spending inorder." [Talk Business,8/4/2011]

Griffin Said He Consistently Votes to Cut Spending

In August 2011, at a town hall, Griffin explained how he consistently votes to cut spending.

He said, You can look at my record and you will see that I have consistently voted to cut spending.Thats what Ive done. Ive gotten attacked for it, but thats what I said I was going to do and thats whatIve doneWe need to continue to find inefficiencies and cut spending But the part thats really gettingus is the other part (mandatory spending). That cant be changed unless if we actually go in and change it.Its called mandatory spendingIf we dont deal with the mandatory side thats where the real problemcomes. [Griffin Conway Town Hall 8:10, uploaded8/4/11]

Griffin Said He Was Willing to Work with President Obama

On September 8, 2011 Rep. Griffin issued this response to President Obamas joint Congressional addresson jobs.

Griffins press office released the following, First and foremost, the Congress should work with thePresident on points where we can agree. We must stop excessive regulation, reform our tax code so wecan remain competitive with other countries, and expand our domestic energy production and makegovernment live within its means. I am ready and willing to work with the President to tear down thebarriers to private-sector job creation If the President wants to strengthen the economy, he should

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encourage the Senate to pass more than a dozen pro-jobs, pro-growth bills that we in the House havealready passed. [Griffin Press Release,9/8/2011]

Business and Consumer Issues

Withdrew Support for SOPA

In January 2012, Griffin said he would remove himself as an original co-sponsor of the Stop OnlinePiracy Act following protests from Google and Wikipedia.

I pledged to take a second look at SOPA, and I did just that. I also said that I would not support a billunless my constituents are comfortable with it. And I wont, Griffin said. I considered every constituentopinion expressed. In this case, I am convinced that there has to be a better vehicle to protect Americanintellectual property than SOPA. Therefore, I have decided to withdraw my support for SOPA andremove my name as a co-sponsor. [Arkansas News, 1/19/12]

Griffin: Ad Attacks His Support for Corporate Loopholes

In August 2011, House Majority PAC released an ad attacking Rep. Griffins continuous support for thesuper rich and big business.

The ad said, Announcer: Maybe you live here ( pictures of mansions[...]Or own one of these (privatejets) [] If so, Congressman Tim Griffin just voted to give you a big tax cut [...]and for tax loopholes tokeep corporate profits sky high. What about the rest of us? Griffin voted to end Medicare as we know it[] and to protect profits for companies that ship jobs to China. If you have to make millions to get ourcongressman's attention[...]It's time to find a new congressman. House Majority PAC is responsible forthe content of this advertising. [Youtube.com, accessed 8/12/11]

Griffin: Received 63% from Heritage Action for America

Based on 30 key votes from January-August 2011, Griffin received a 63% score from the Heritage Actionfor America. [Heritage Action for America, accessed 9/6/11]

Campaign Finance Issues

Griffin Took In Beltway Money

According to the Arkansas News, Republicans in Arkansas U.S. House contingent have taped sourcesinside the Beltway sources in early efforts to reload their campaign coffers for re-election bids next yearthrough forming joint fundraising events. Griffin, a member of the Armed Services Committee, received$5,692 through The Lucky 13 Joint Fundraising Committee, which distributed $94,745 to 13Republican freshmen on the committee. The Lucky 13 funds were raised at a Feb. 15 dinner hosted byArmed Services Committee chairman Buck McKeon, R-Calif., and where invitations were sent tolobbyists for defense contractors and other potential donors.

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The Arkansas News reported that Griffin collected $62,5019 from PACs. In all, he raised $177,170including $55,600 from Arkansas residents. Griffin hosted two Capitol Hill fundraisers by himself inMarch. A March 3 breakfast sought $1,000 PAC contributions and a March 17 luncheon requested $2,500from PACs. [Arkansas News, 4/24/11]

Griffin Filed 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report

In July, Tim Griffin for Congress filed its 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report. In 2011, Griffin raised$330,055.25 in the 2nd quarter and has $253,390.32 cash on hand. He received $105,144.50 from PACs.

Contributions of Note:

Received $2,000 from Chevron Employees PAC. In both April and May 2011, Griffin received$1,000 from Chevron Employees PAC. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011 July Quarterly FECReport, filed 7/15/11]

Received $10,000 from the Citizens United Political Victory Fund. In May 2011, Griffinreceived $10,000 from the Citizens United Political Victory Fund. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Received $1,000 from Halliburton. In April 2011, Griffin received $1,000 from HalliburtonPAC. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Received $3,500 from Koch Industries. In June 2011, Griffin received $3500 from KochIndustries PAC. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Received $794.90 from the Lucky 13 Joint Fundraising Committee. In June 2011, Griffinreceived $794.9 from the Lucky 13 Joint Fundraising Committee. Griffin has received $6,345.52total from the Lucky 13 Joint Fundraising Committee. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011 JulyQuarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Received $2500 from the Majority Committee PAC. In April 2011, Griffin received $2500from the Majority Committee PAC which is Kevin McCarthys leadership PAC. [Tim Griffin forCongress 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

Received $5000 from Murphy Oil. In June 2011, Griffin received $3000 from Murphy oilemployees and $2000 from the Murphy Oil PAC.

Expenditures of Note:

Paid $135, 602 to OnMessage, Inc. In June 2011, Griffin paid $127,970.74 to OnMessage, Incfor radio and television advertising. Additionally, he made a payment of On Message, Inc. for$7631.26 in April 2011. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]

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Made $8988.07 in Credit Card Payments. In his April Quarterly report, Griffin made $8988.07in Visa Credit card payments. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report, filed7/15/11]

Other Items of Note:

Griffin Received $105,144.50 from PACs. In his July 2011 Quarterly FEC report, Griffinreceived $105,144.50 from PACs. This is 32% of his contributions. [Tim Griffin for Congress2011 July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11]Griffin Paid All Debts Owed by the Committee. In his April Quarterly report, Griffin had$177341.32 in debt. In his July 2011 Quarterly FEC report, he reported paying MarathonStrategic Communications, Split Rail Consulting, OnMessage, Inc. and JPMS Cox, PLLC toeliminate his debt. [Tim Griffin for Congress 2011 July Quarterly FEC Report, filed 7/15/11; TimGriffin for Congress 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, filed 4/15/11]

Earned a $14,000 Koch Payday

In June 2011, the Arkansas Times reported that Tim Griffin earned a $14000 Koch payday. The Kochshave been spending heavily, including passing out $14,000 to PACs of House members after theydropped their co-sponsorship of the legislation.

One of those favored with a Koch payday after he took his name off the bill: U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin ofLittle Rock. [Arkansas Times, 7/22/2011]

Griffin Reported At Least $15,000 of Credit Card Debt in 2010

According to his financial disclosure for calendar year 2010, Griffin reported that he had $15,000-$50,000in credit card debt and incurred a $15,000-50,000 personal loan in October 2010. Additionally, Griffinreported an additional $15,000-$50,000 of credit card debt from January 2009-June 2010. [Tim Griffin2011 Financial Disclosure, filed5/27/11; Tim Griffin 2010 Financial Disclosure, filed 6/9/10]

Griffin: Created Leadership PAC

In August 2011, Rep. Griffin took the initial steps to great a new leadership PAC.

Politico reported, Griffin filed paperwork to form a leadership PAC, which hes calling DiamondPAC. Todd Hart of Little Rock, Ark., will serve as treasurer. [Politico8/11/11]

Griffin: PAC to Help Elect Small Government Candidates

In August 2011, Rep. Griffin discussed his newly created PAC entitled, Diamond PAC.

Arkansas News reported that Griffin said, I want to help elect people who believe government ought tolive within its means and who will advance a progrowth, pro-jobs policy[]We have a historicopportunity to elect conservatives this cycle. Griffin, a veteran political operative before he was electedto represent the states2nd District last year, calls his committee Diamond PAC. He said he will use it to

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fund congressional candidates and Republicans running for the Arkansas General Assembly. The statedelegations other Republican member, Rep. Rick Crawford of Jonesboro, does not have plans to start aPAC in the near future, according to Jonah Shumate, his chief of staff.[] Griffin declined to say howmuch he hoped to raise. But he said he wants to go big.I wouldnt have put this together if I didnt wantto make a significant impact, he said.[Arkansas News, 8/18/11]

Griffin Contributed $12,300 to NRCC

In August 2011, Rep. Griffin contributed $12,300 to the NRCC. [Times Record,8/14/11]

American Crossroads Co-Hosts Event for Griffin

In September 2011, Griffin held a fundraiser with a board member of the conservative American Crossroads PAC,Jim Dyke.

Jim Dyke, secretary of American Crossroads, co-hosted a fundraiser for freshman congressman Tim Griffin, R-Ark. The other hosts were former Republican National Committee chairman Ed Gillispie and his wife. Gillespie

and Karl Rove, the longtime senior adviser in the George W. Bush administration, encouraged the formation ofAmerican Crossroads and served as fundraisers for the group.[Sunlight Foundation, 9/22/11]

Griffins 3rd Quarter 2011 FEC Report

In October 2011, Re-Elect Tim Griffin For Congress Committee filed its October 2011 Quarterly FECReport. Griffin raised $232,731.19 in the 3rd quarter of 2011, has $379,552.44 cash on hand and spent$110,680.51. Griffin received $68,421.30 from PACsand committee transfers. [Re-Elect Tim Griffin ForCongress Committee, filed10/14/11]Contributions of Note:

Received $5,000 for Cantors Leadership PAC. In August 2011, Griffin received $5,000 fromEvery Republican is Crucial (ERIC PAC) which brings his cycle total to $10,000.Received $259.80 from Lamar Smith $1661.50 from McCarthy as In-Kind Contributions. InSeptember 2011, Lamar Smith contributed $259.80 as an in-kind contribution for travel expensefor a fundraiser. In September 2011, McCarthy contributed $1661.50 for an-kind travel expense.

Received $10,000 from Security for America Fund II. In August and September 2011, Griffinreceived $10,000 from Security for America Fund II.

Received $2,500 from Jeb Hensarlings PAC. In September 2011, Griffin received $2,500 fromthe JEB Fund.

Received $4,000 from the Gillespie Family. N September 2011, Cathy and Ed Gillespie eachcontributed $2,000.

Expenditures of Note:

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Spent $30,227.48 on Consultants. From July-September 2011, Griffin Spent $30,227 onfundraising, communications and compliance consultants.

Contributed $7,000 to NRCC. In July 2011 and September 2011, Griffin contributed$7,000 tothe NRCC for the young guns and Patriot Day.

Other Items of Note:

Griffin received $68,421.30 from PACs and committee transfers. In his October 2011Quarterly FEC report, Griffin received $68,421.30 from PACs and committee transfers.

Griffin Raised $225,000 in 3rd Quarter 2011

In October 2011, Griffin reported raising $225,000 in the last three-month period pushing his fundraisingtotal over $700,000 year-to-date. He will report about $370,000 cash on hand. A supermajority of hisfundraising has come from in-state contributions, according to his campaign. [Talk Business, 10/11/11]

American Crossroads Board Member and Fundraiser Co-Hosted Event for GriffinIn September 2011, Griffin held a fundraiser with a board member of the conservative AmericanCrossroads PAC, Jim Dyke.

Jim Dyke, secretary of American Crossroads, co-hosted a fundraiser for freshman congressman TimGriffin, R-Ark. The other hosts were former Republican National Committee chairman Ed Gillispie andhis wife. Gillespie and Karl Rove, the longtime senior adviser in the George W. Bush administration,encouraged the formation of American Crossroads and served as fundraisers for the group. [SunlightFoundation, 9/22/11]

Griffin Linked to Koch Family Contributions

In October 2011, it was reported that the Koch family funneled more than $160,000 into efforts to electGriffin because he shares their anti-government, anti-tax, anti-regulatory thinking. The Tea Party isalso supported by the Kochs, but the family has been accused of bribing foreign business, falsifyingenvironmental data, and side-stepping prohibitions to conduct business with Iran. [Arkansas Times, 10/3/11]

Campaign 2012

Florida Today reported that Griffin Developed a List of Voters to Intimidate

In January 2012, Florida Today reported that Griffin developed a list of voters to intimidate at the polls.

In 2004, Tim Griffin, research director for the Republican National Committee, developed a list of votersin predominantly black areas of Jacksonville, voters his campaign workers would intimidate at the polls.Fraud does exist in Florida, in the form of preventing citizens from voting. [Florida Today, 1/9/12]

Griffin Vulnerable in Polls

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In October 2011, a poll was released that showed Griffins hold on the second district was vulnerable.Only 44% of voters reported being willing to vote Griffin and 49% preferred to vote for someone else.

In the 1st CD, 49% of voters had a negative opinion of Congressional Republicans and only 38%

held a positive one. The 2nd CD is even worse for the GOP since 53% of voters have a negativeopinion of Congressional Republicans and 36% have a positive view. [Talk Business,10/26/11]

Griffin Frustrated by Partisan Deadlock but Considered a Polarizing Figure Himself

In September 2011, Griffin frustrated by partisan gridlock but polls show he was polarizing figure.

I am frustrated that we cant get some of the big things that I believe need to be done to get the countryback on track: Fundamental tax reform, regulatory reform and getting a plan that at least moves us towardpaying down the debt. [] I met with constituents all day today, and I meet with them every time Imhome, and a lot of them share the same concerns and the same frustrations that Ive got.

However, Griffins poll numbers suggest he himself is a polarizing figure. A poll found that 40 percent ofvoters in his district approved of his job performance slightly better than Obamas 36 percent approvalrating statewide and 35.5 percent disapproved. [Arkansas News Bureau,9/28/11]

Griffin Backed Romney for GOP Nomination

In October 2011, Griffin announced that he would support Romney for the GOP nomination in 2012. Itwas also reported that Griffin will serve as chairman of Romney's Arkansas campaign and on the Romneycampaign's national advisory council. [Arkansas Democrat, 10/5/11]

Member of the NRCC Recruitment Team

In July 2011, Roll Call reported that House Republicans have signed 16 Members to their recruitmentteam this cycle, including 11 freshmen. Roby is among the 16 recruited. [Roll Call, 7/28/2011]

House Majority PAC Released Ad Criticizing Griffin

In June 2011, the House Majority PAC released an ad against Griffin and his vote on the Paul RyanBudget.

The ad said that Tim Griffin says he's committed to saving Medicare. But America's leadingconservative newspaper -- The Wall Street Journal, reported the Republican budget Griffin voted for,

quote, "would essentially end Medicare." That was on April 4th of this year. You can go to WSJ dot comand look it up for yourself. Seniors would have to pay sixty-four hundred dollars a year more to get thesame benefits. The budget Tim Griffin voted for also cuts taxes for the wealthy by another trillion dollars.And that budget adds eight trillion dollars to the national debt over ten years. It's not about savingMedicare. Again, you can read it in The Wall Street Journal, quote, "the House Republican's budget cutsgo to fund tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the rich."Tim, why not just tell us the truth? [Youtube,06/27/11]

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Congressional Office Issues

Called to End Congressional Pensions

In November 2011, Griffin introduced legislation to terminate congressional pensions as part of a largerdiscussion to trim pension plans for all federal workers.

Griffin declined his pension when he entered Congress and spoke out again pensions for members ofCongress given the fiscal climate and absence of a private-sector pension system. [The Hill, 11/21/11]

Member of Several House Caucuses

As of November 2011, Griffin was a part of several House Caucuses including the General AviationCaucus, the Congressional Sportsmens Caucus, the Congressional Motorcycle Safety Caucus, theCongressional Waterways Caucus, the Congressional Turkey Caucus, the Congressional Community

Health Center Caucus, the Congressional House Small Brewers Caucus, the Congressional HungerCaucus, the House Hunger Caucus, and the Congressional Scouting Caucus. [griffin.house.gov,11/23/11]

Praised by Sean Hannity for working Against Establishment

In December 2011, Sean Hannity praised Griffin in a tweet and said, Talked to Rep. Tim Griffin today -only in office 9 months and already working against the establishment and leading by example.[twitter.com,12/6/11]

Griffin Led a Discussion on Congressional Reforms

In January 2012, Griffin participated in a conference Call with No Labels to discuss No Labels MakeCongress work plan. [No Labels, accessed1/25/12; No Labels Press Release, 1/23/12]

Griffin Listed in Report Detailing His Attempt to Circumvent Earmark Ban.

Although Republicans passed an earmark ban at the beginning of this Congress, Griffins addition of $25million for simulator training facilities to the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act was found tohave the appearance of being an earmark. Earlier this year, Griffin was one of three Members ofCongress cited for using the $1 billion defense fund for a backdoor earmark. [USA Today,6/16/11;Investigation of House FY2012 National Defense Authorization Act, 12/2011; 2012 NDAA EarmarksReport Data, accessed 12/12/11]

Griffin Gets Earful at Town Hall

In an August 2011 town hall, Rep. Griffin fielded questions and comments from his constituents.

According to the Arkansas Democrat Gazette, U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin got an earful Thursday from bothsides of the political divide in the 2nd Congressional District during town-hall meetings [] We are youremployers, and you need to spend time listening to us, said Curtis Rose, a Faulkner County Tea Party

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member. [] What about bringing in revenue to alleviate the problem? asked Cornelius Roberts ofLittle Rock. The House wastes time sending stuff to the Senate, no way in the world its going to pass.[Arkansas Democrat Gazette, 8/5/11]

Griffin Traveled to Belgium, Afghanistan, and Estonia on House-Sponsored Trip

From May 27 to May 31, Griffin traveled to Belgium, Afghanistan, and Estonia on a trip sponsored by theHouse. Though transportation costs were undisclosed, Griffin spent $371 in per diem expenditures. [Clerkof the House Travel Disclosure,8/16/11]

Griffin Handed Out Watch List at Town Hall

In August 2011, at a town hall, Griffin passed out a watch list containing names of activists.

He said, In recent years some folks have turned these into political shout fests. Im a tell you Im notgoing to let that happen here. Were going to be civil and were going to respectful of each other in ourdisagreement. I passed out some of the nonsense some of these groups are doing in how you can interrupt

and how you can basically shout over everybody. Were just not going to have that. [Griffin Conway TownHall :49, uploaded 8/4/11]

Griffin Said That Theres More Bipartisanship than the Media Reports

In August 2011, at a town hall, Griffin commented on the bipartisanship in Congress.

He said, First of all, its not just me but a lot of people do this. There is a lot of legislation I co-sponsorwith Democrats. I started a C130 authorization caucus with a Democrat. I think there is more of that goingthan you probably see on TV. There is tons of legislation people in both parties are co-sponsoring. I votefor amendments Democrats put up all the time. You have crossover both ways. [] It doesnt happen as

much as it used to because of a lot of the folks in the more moderate to center right districts that used tobe Democrats, particularly in the south are now Republicans. You dont have as many people in themiddle. Thats part of it, but I appreciate what you are saying. [Griffin Conway Town Hall 3:00, uploaded8/22/11 ]

Griffin: Town Hall Activists on His Mind

In August 2011, Rep. Griffin began his town halls by citing Moveon.Orgs disruptive tactics.

According to the National Journal, the threat of yelling activists was on [Griffins] mind: He beganseveral recent forums by mentioning a MoveOn.org primer on disrupting events. I referenced to it and

said, this is what some people are trying to do, Griffin said. I just want everybody to be heard, to be civiland respectful. [National Journal, 8/19/11]

Griffin on Shaky Ground During Occupy Wall Street Protests

In October 2011, it was reported that incumbents faced difficulties with constituents during nation-wideprotests claiming their voices have not been heard.

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At rallies and protests in Arkansas and elsewhere, many are saying their voices have not been heard inWashington a possible sign of trouble for incumbents heading into a new election cycle.

Crawfords approval rating was 35 percent and his disapproval rating was 23 percent. The poll also

shows that Crawford lacks name recognition. [Arkansas News Bureau, 10/15/11]

Griffin Elicited Strongest Negative Reaction in Polls

Griffins name recognition was the most negative of the Arkansas delegation with an approvalrating of 40 percent and a disapproval rating of 35.5 percent. [Arkansas News Bureau, 10/15/11]

Set Aside Earmark For Flight Simulators

In June 2011, the USA Today reported that a major showdown over earmarks was on its way toCongress after Republicans declared a ban on the projects earlier this year.

According to the USA Today, The stakes: A $1 billion defense fund that House members have dippedinto to fund about $600 million worth of special projects.

The chairman of the House Armed Services Committee defends the provisions, saying they're notearmarks under House rules because the projects will be competitively awarded, but earmark watchers and some senators say Congress should hold the line and not create a loophole to the earmark ban.

The Arkansas Democrat Gazette reported that Griffin set aside $25 million for flight simulators likethe 20 that already exist at Little Rock Air Force Base. Griffin told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette thatthe base is the logical place for the simulators, but conceded, They could put them in Timbuktu. [USAToday, 06/16/2011]

Reimbursed for $833.50 for Private Auto Mileage

From April June 2011, Griffin was reimbursed $833.50 for auto mileage. [2011 2nd Quarter Statementsof Disbursement, 7/5/11]Griffin Spent $575.10 on Bottled Water.

From April-June 2011, Griffin spent $575.10 on bottled water. [2011 2 nd Quarter Statements ofDisbursement, 7/5/11]

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Griffin Supported Contingent Disaster Funding

In September 2011, Griffin supported a bill that would make $3.65 billion in disaster relief contingent onpassage of $1.5 billion in savings. [Griffin Congressional Press Release,9/23/11]

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Economic and Financial Issues

Griffin Continued to Support Free Trade Deals

In January 2012, Griffin said he continued to support the three main free trade agreements passed in

Congress (South Korea, Panama and Columbia) although there are jobs being lost in Arkansas to Mexico.

Griffin told reporters he voted for the same free-trade agreements that Pryor voted for. He said that evenwith those agreements, the U.S. is at a disadvantage because those countries have been trading withEuropean countries much longer and have built up relationships with them. (Free-trade agreements) arenever perfect, but theyre better than the alternative, he said. [Arkansas News, 1/13/12]

Griffin Supported Obamas Proposal to Merge Federal Agencies

In January 2012, Griffin said he supported Obamas proposal to merge federal agencies including sixmajor trade organizations and commerce agencies with overlapping programs.

Republican Congressman Tim Griffin said that he thinks similar mergers should happen throughoutfederal government. I want to look at the details and see how long he wants that power for, but thegeneral concept? Fabulous, Griffin told reporters. We ought to be doing that throughout government.[AP,1/13/12]

Received B Grade From Americans for Prosperity

In January 2011, Americans for Prosperity scored the most important economic votes of the first sessionof the 112th Congress. Representative Griffin received a grade of B from Americans for Prosperity.[Americans for Prosperity 112th Congress Mid Term Scorecard,1/2012]

AFP Founded In 2003 By David H. Koch. The New York Times wrote about David H. Koch,noting that in 2003 he helped establish the nonprofit Americans for Prosperity Foundation, whichsupports free-market policies and promotes government spending limits. It split off from an earlierKoch-backed enterprise, now called FreedomWorks, which promotes similar goals. [New YorkTimes, 7/10/08]

Americans for Prosperity Funded, Run by Koch Industries Executives. Americans forProsperity was founded by David H. Koch, one of the wealthiest men in America and theexecutive vice president and board member of Koch Industries, which was founded by his father.Recently, Koch gave $5 million to Americans for Prosperity. In 2009, AFP President Tim Phillipssaid Koch launched our organization. The executive Vice President of Koch Industries said,What we have done is support the Americans for Prosperity Foundation, which has been active invarious forms for nearly 30 years. [New York Times, 7/10/08; MSNBC, 3/31/10; Politico, 10/14/08,Washington Examiner, 7/18/10; Washington Independent,10/5/09]

Chided for not focusing on jobs

In August 2011, according to Arkansas Online, One man in Little Rock chided Griffin for not talkingenough about jobs. [Arkansas Online, 8/4/2011]

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Claimed August Default Date Not True

In June 2011, Griffin told KARN News that the US has plenty of money coming into the treasury to payour debts and that defaulting in August will absolutely not happen no matter what happens with the debt

ceiling vote.

Griffin said that I think were pretty much unified on this. We understand how important it is that we payour bills. We also understand that we have plenty of money coming into the treasury to service our debt,so the idea that we immediately have to default at some point in August is just not true. [Tim Griffin onKARN News, 06/07/2011]

Voted In Favor of Cut, Cap, and Balance Act

In July 2011, Tim Griffin voted in support of the Cut, Cap, and Balance Act, which mandated a cut inspending in FY2012, a federal cap on spending as a percentage of GDP, and a balanced budgetamendment to the Constitution.

In a press release, Griffin said that We must address the long-term root of our national debt problem:Washingtons spending addiction. That is why I cosponsored and voted for the Cut, Cap, and BalanceAct, which will cut federal spending now, enforce a spending cap on the amount the government canspend in the future, and require a Balanced Budget Amendment before an increase in the debt ceiling.[Griffin Press Release, 7/19/2011]

Griffin Railed on Washington Spending Addiction But Had Credit Card Debt

In July 2011, CNN reported that Griffin has credit card debt although he railed on Washingtonsspending addiction.

According to CNN, Theyre hard-charging, compromise-damning members of Congress, and theyvechanged the debate in Washington over the size and spending of the government. In recent days,Republican hard-liners in the debt ceiling talks have been vociferous in their rhetoric [] But accordingto recently released disclosure forms, [Sen. Mike] Lee and others in his caucus have some significantpersonal debt of their own. [] Republican Rep. Tim Griffin of Arkansas had at least $15,000 of debtaccumulated on an American Express card, according to the forms. Griffin, who won his seat with teaparty support, has recently said Washington has a spending addiction. [CNN, 7/28/11]

Griffin: On Jobs and Taxes

In August 2011, Rep. Griffin supported legislation which would cut jobs in Arkansas and give tax breaksto millionaires.

The Examiner reported, Griffin's support of federal policies that will cut 10 percent of federal jobs in thecountry and in has caught the attention of the AFL-CIO.[] For generations of conservative thinkers andeducators government has always been the more sustainable jobs industry. [] Griffin says he thinks thebest way to get the economy going and create jobs is to put more money in the pockets of tax payerswhich encourages sustainable economic growth, innovation, and job creation. This time last year,

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President Obama and his administration offered a huge tax relief stimulus package to corporations andlarge business owners. Obama's stimulus package makes George Bush's stimulus package lookparsimonious. [The Examiner8/16/11]

Griffin Said He Was Reviewing Presidents Ideas on American Jobs Act

In September 2011, Griffin said we must reform our tax code and make government live within its meanto create jobs.

First and foremost, the Congress should work with the President on points where we can agree. Wemust stop excessive regulation, reform our tax code so we can remain competitive with other countries,and expand our domestic energy production and make government live within its means. I am ready andwilling to work with the President to tear down the barriers to private-sector job creation [ ] If thePresident wants to strengthen the economy, he should encourage the Senate to pass more than a dozenpro-jobs, pro-growth bills that we in the House have already passed. [Griffin Press Release, 9/8/2011]

The Arkansas News also noted that Arkansas could receive nearly $1 billion in additional funding underPresident Barack Obamas latest stimulus bill, according to White House estimates. The nearly $1 billionin federal funding would be available to modernize schools, reconstruct roads and bridges and refurbishvacant and foreclosed properties among other initiatives included in the bill that President Barack Obamasent Congress Monday. [Arkansas News, 9/13/11]

Griffin Supported Trade Agreements

In October 2011, Griffin joined the Arkansas delegation in voting for free trade agreements with Panama,Columbia, and South Korea. He said of the bill, Thousands of Arkansans earn their living from theexport of Arkansas-made products to other countries. When job creators have access to new markets, theycan hire additional employees and expand their businesses here in the United States. [Arkansas NewsBureau,10/13/11]

Griffin Supported Charter Schools

In September 2011, Griffin stated in a press release, Providing a quality education for our children isnecessary for the United States to remain competitive. [] Charter schools enable parents to play anactive role in their childs education by allowing them to decide where their child is educated. They alsoprovide students with a better chance to reach their educational potential because charter schools onaverage outperform traditional public schools. I was proud to support this bill, which will encouragestates to support the development and expansion of charter schools. [Griffin Congressional Press Release,9/13/11]

Griffin Voted to Pass Temporary Spending Bill

In October 2011, a temporary spending bill was passed to continue federal funding until November 18 th,2011 which gives lawmakers more time to put together a large-scale appropriations bill to cover the restof the fiscal year that began this month. The only major opposition to the bill was that the funding levelswere higher than the budget resolution the house adopted earlier in the year. [Times Record, 10/4/11]

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Education Issues

Griffin Voted to Increase and Cut Spending on Head Start

While speaking to a Head Start Program that was facing budgetary cuts, Griffin specifically mentions that

he has voted to cut (and to increase) funding for Head Start. Griffin has voted to increase funding forHead Start and to cut it. He said he can't make a decision on a budget vote based on a single program.[Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 4/22/11]

Energy Issues

Called on Obama to Reverse Keystone XL Pipeline Decision

In November 2011, Griffin called on Obama to reverse the decision he made to delay decision on theKeystone XL Pipeline until after the 2012 election.

Griffin said Obama was putting politics over paychecks. [Tim Griffin District Update, 11/22/11]

Upset by Keystone Pipeline Rejection

In January 2012, Griffin was disappointed at Obamas decision to reject the Keystone XL pipeline.

Griffin said that the decision would cost thousands of American jobs and pointed to Welspun Tubular, acompany that had 500 miles of pipe for the pipeline to transport 700,000 barrels from Canada to GulfCoast refineries. Griffin said, President Obama decided to create jobs in China instead of the UnitedStates. [Times Record,1/19/12]

Criticized Obama on Keystone XL Pipeline

In November 2011, Griffin criticized Obama on Keystone XL pipeline.

U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin, R-Little Rock, sharply criticized President Barack Obama on today for delayinguntil 2013 a decision on the Keystone XL pipeline.

That just stinks. That just wreaks of politics [] This is shovel ready, Griffin said, adding that thedelay would cost tens of thousands of needed jobs. [Arkansas News,11/15/11]

Griffin Promoted Natural Gas and Gulf/ANWR Drilling

While speaking on CBSs face the Nation, Griffin promoted natural gas and drilling in the Gulf andANWR. Griffin said We cant talk about energy independence and then say, but you cant drill here andyou cant drill there and we shouldnt do thisNatural gas is clean burning. We have a lot of it here inArkansas and we ought to be pursuing natural gas options as well. There are a lot of things that we shouldhave been doing over the years and there are different obstacles whether its drilling in the-- in the Gulf orwhether its drilling in ANWR, we have a lot of reserves but ultimately we need to be energyindependent. [CBS Face The Nation, 4/24/11]

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Earned a $14,000 Koch Payday

In June 2011, the Arkansas Times reported that Tim Griffin earned a $14000 Koch payday. The Kochshave been spending heavily, including passing out $14,000 to PACs of House members after they

dropped their co-sponsorship of the legislation.

One of those favored with a Koch payday after he took his name off the bill: U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin ofLittle Rock. [Arkansas Times, 7/22/2011]

Griffin In Favor of Speeding Up Offshore Drilling

In May 2011, after the House approved legislation that would allow offshore drilling in the Gulf andVirginia, Griffin stated that the Presidents offshore oil drilling slow down is bad policy, saying that "Theresult is higher gas prices, lost jobs for U.S. workers, a weaker economy, and a continued dependence onforeign sources of oil. Today's vote will help reverse these policies by increasing domestic production and

creating more American jobs." [The Times Record, 05/06/2011]

Responded to Obamas Plan To Open Strategic Petroleum Reserve

In June 2011, Griffin released a statement in which he urged the President to support the Republican planto increase oil supply.

In a statement, Griffin said that The Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) is intended to be used foremergencies. The President's policies have contributed to higher energy prices and the SPR is not theanswer. If the President truly wants to address the high price of gas by increasing the supply of oil, heshould join with the House in supporting measures that will maximize U.S. energy production and createjobs for American workers. [Griffin Press Release, 06/23/2011]

Griffin says Compressed Natural Gas is the Solution

In August 2011, Rep. Griffin discussed the benefits of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to Arkansas.

According to the Jacksonville Patriot, The city of North Little Rock held an open house Tuesday for itsfirst condensed natural gas fueling station open to the public at 320 Curtis Sykes Drive. The stationsopening was the result of three grants procured by the city [ ]U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin, R-Little Rock, saidcommunities such as North Little Rock are helping the country move forward to meet its energy needs. Itis clear that CNG is a part of the solution, Griffin said. It is abundant, clean-burning, American and isfrom Arkansas. It means jobs. [ Jacksonville Patriot,8/19/11]

Environmental Issues

Griffin: Stop the Federal Government from Killing Jobs

In February 2011, on the House floor, Griffin stated that federal regulations such as Boiler MACT andother EPA policies were a burden on small business. Job creators spend their money complying with

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these burdensome regulationsmoney that should be used to create jobs now the EPA wants to applythe oil spill law to force dairy farmers to spend millions of dollars preparing for spilled milk, because ofthe amount of fat in it. What if its skim milk? If it wasnt so troubling, it might be funny. [Griffin FloorRemarks on H Res 72, 2/11/11]

Supported Federal Disaster Declaration

In May 2011, Tim Griffin sent a letter with the rest of the Arkansas delegation which requested a federaldisaster declaration and federal funding to assist in the recovery of the areas affected by the severeweather storms in April. [Arkansas Delegation Letter,05/02/2011]

In May 2011, Tim Griffin, responding to FEMAs announcement of the opening of a Disaster RecoveryCenter in Faulkner County, said that This is wonderful news for everyone in Faulkner Countyespecially Viloniawho was affected by the recent storms. I commend ADEM and FEMA for setting upthis facility so that area residents can get the help they need. [Rep. Griffin Press Release, 05/10/2011]

Supported Federal Disaster Assistance

In June 2011, Griffin, along with the entire Arkansas delegation, backed Gov. Mike Beebes request forfederal disaster assistance.

According to the delegations letter that was sent to President Obama, the Arkansas delegation saidfurther assistance is needed. All available resources at the state and local level, including the ArkansasNational Guard, are being used, but greater federal assistance is needed to help our communities recover.

According to Arkansas News, the delegation also requested statewide hazardous mitigation assistanceon the governors behalfIn particular, the Arkansas governor and congressional delegation arerequesting help for displaced homeowners and those whose jobs have been affected by severe storms thatbegan May 24. [Arkansas News,06/03/2011]

Arkansas Delegation Urged President to Reconsider Denial of Federal Emergency Funds

In June 2011, the Arkansas delegation urged the President to reconsider the denial of federal funds to aidFranklin and Johnson counties.

According to the Southwest Times, The lawmakers sent letters to Obama and FEMA AdministratorCraig Fugate in support of Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebes appeal of FEMAs decision denying a majordisaster declaration for the two counties following last months severe storms. [SW Times,06/28/2011]

Sponsored Legislation to Provide Temporary Tax Relief To Assist in Rebuilding Efforts

In June 2011, Griffin sponsored legislation that would provide temporary tax relief to assist in therebuilding efforts of states damaged by extreme weather.

According to a Spencer Bachus press release, The Southeastern Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2011 wouldprovide temporary tax relief to assist rebuilding efforts in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky,

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Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. The bill is modeled on tax reliefoffered after previous natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina and is a companion to legislation introducedby Senator Richard Shelby (AL) in the U.S. Senate.

Bachus also clarified that The provisions in the legislation would be fully paid for by rescinding federal

funds that are either unspent or uncommitted, and would not increase the national debt. [Bachus PressRelease, 06/24/2011]

Griffin Voted to Curb EPA Regulations of Cement Factories

In October 2011, Griffin voted for legislation (successfully passed) that would give companies years tocomply with new EPA regulations of cement plants. The Arkansas delegation said the regulations wouldlead to factory layoffs and closures. [Times Record,10/7/11]

Ethics Issues

House Republicans Choose Tim Griffin for the House Judiciary Committee

Griffin, the former Bush-era US Attorney who was the man at the center of the recent nationwide hiringscandal surrounding the Department of Justice was named to the House Judicial Committee. JesseFerguson of the DCCC stated, Ironically, House Republicans have appointed him to oversee the verydepartment he helped undermine. [DCCC Press Release, 1/03/11]

Foreign Policy Issues Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea

Unsure of Future US Role in Afghanistan

In May 2011, Griffin was invited to CIA headquarters in Langley, VA. to view the classified pictures ofOsama Bin Laden following his death in Pakistan. However, even with Bin Laden gone, Griffin said hispassing has not brought clarity to the U.S. militarys role in Afghanistan, saying that On Afghanistan, Ihave more questions than I have complete conclusions. [Arkansas Democrat Gazette, 05/16/2011]

In regards to troop levels within Afghanistan, Griffin expressed his desire to wait for a comprehensivestrategy from the Pentagon before making any decisions, saying only that this is an ongoing conversationwe need to have. [Arkansas Democrat Gazette, 05/16/2011]

Griffin: Didnt Participate in Israel Delegation

In August 2011, Rep. Griffin decided not to participate in a congressional delegation trip to Israel.

The National Journal reported, Though the visits are official business, the delegations to Israel are likelyto draw media attention at a time of economic hardship at home. Rep. Tim Griffin, R-Ark., was invited toparticipate but lost so much time because of the canceled district work period in July that I decided Ineeded to do other things, he said. Im going to try to have some downtime with the family, but this is adistrict-work period, not a vacation. [National Journal 8/16/11]

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Gay and Lesbian Issues

Gun Issues

Griffin Shook Hands with NRA CEO

In the spring of 2011, Griffin stopped by the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service toshake hands with National Rifle Association CEO Wayne LaPierre after LaPierre gave a lecture at theschool. [Arkansas News Bureau,11/20/11]

Health Care Issues

Called Affordable Care Act Flawed Beyond Repair

In March 2011, Griffin claimed that the Affordable Care Act was flawed beyond repair.

He said, The new health care law is flawed beyond repair. That is why I co-sponsored and voted torepeal the health care reform law and am working with my colleagues to draft a sound replacement. [LogCabin Democrat,3/18/11]

Alternatives Included Selling Across State Lines and Insurance Pooling

In March 2011, Griffin proposed purchasing insurance across state lines and insurance pooling asalternative to the Affordable Care Act.

He said, Instead of creating new programs, lets empower American businesses and families byallowing them to buy health insurance across state lines and pool together and acquire healthinsurance at lower prices, the same way large corporations and labor unions do. [Log CabinDemocrat, 3/18/11]

Claimed Health Care Reform Added Over $700 Billion to Deficit

In January 2011, Griffin spoke on the House floor in support of repealing health care reform. He stated,It was loaded with gimmicks to make it seem deficit neutral. But once those are accounted for, we findthat it adds over $700 billion to the deficit in the next 10 years. [Griffin Floor Statement, United StatesHouse of Representatives, 1/18/11]

Griffin Defended Vote to Cut Medicare

In April 2011, Griffin said I am proud to support the House budget resolution that keeps our promises toseniors If you are 55 or over, there are no, zero changes to Medicare. For those under 55, our budgetprovides more choice and gives you health care like that enjoyed by Members of Congress and federalemployees. The status quo or Medicare as we know it, without reform, will lead to the dismantling of

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Medicare. We must make responsible reforms now to save Medicare or pay the price. [Griffin PressRelease, 4/15/11]

He fails to mention that the Republican Plan Would cost millions of seniors $2.2 billion in benefits nextyear (2012) alone. [Senate Democrats Press Release, 4/21/2011]

DCCC Hit on Medicare Hypocrisy

In April 2011, the DCCC hit House Republicans on their hypocrisy for voting to end Medicare aftercampaigning on protecting the seniors program. The congressional campaign committee contended that abudget resolution that passed the House of Representatives on April 15, 2010 amounted to a vote to endMedicare. The organization also noted that during the 2010 election Democrats came under fire foreliminating roughly $500 billion from future funding to Medicare and Medicare Advantage

Tim Griffins Website Said Speaker Pelosis Medicare Cuts Were Wrong. Tim Griffins campaignwebsite clearly states, Speaker Pelosis Medicare Cuts Were Wrong: The Obama-Pelosi health care law

cut Medicare by $500 billion and Medicare Advantage by billions. According to recent statistics, over50,000 Arkansans rely on Medicare Advantage [] Speaker Pelosis Agenda Threatens Social Securityand Medicare: Out-of-control spending by Speaker Pelosis Congress is threatening the future of SocialSecurity and Medicare. [Tim Griffin for Congress Committees Website, accessed4/19/11]

AR-02: Tim Griffins Campaign Said He Opposed Privatizing Medicare. In a October 1, 2010 pressrelease, Tim Griffin touted his opposition to privatizing Medicare. While refuting claims he supportedprivatizing Social Security, Griffins campaign wrote: THE TRUTH: In February, The Now-DefunctBlake's Think Tank Reported On Tim's Opposition To Privatization. [W]hile unfamiliar with all of thedetails of the plan proposed by Rep. Paul Ryan that calls for the privatization of Medicare, Medicaid andSocial Security, Mr. Griffin opposes privatization of these programs. (Blake's Think Tank, 2/25/10).[Tim Griffin for Congress Committees Press Release, 10/1/10 (emphasis included in the original)]

60 Plus Association Begun Airing Ads in District

In April 21, the 60 Plus Association launched a new campaign in the district thanking the Member forprotecting Medicare during the recent budget debates. [60 Plus Association Press Release, 4/27/11]

Said healthcare would return to spotlight

In August 2011, Griffin said that the recent debt fight means that healthcare reform would return as atopic of discussion.

According to the Hill, Griffin said My position is you cant talk about the debt unless you talk abouthealthcare, thats just a fact, Griffin said, adding that he's communicating a lot about healthcare, a lot.Mandatory spending is 60 percent of our budget so you cant discuss the budget at all unless youretalking about healthcare in some form or fashion, he said. [The Hill, 8/6/2011]

Griffin Said Entitlement is Not a Derogatory Term

In August 2011, at a town hall, Griffin defended entitlements.

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He said, Its Medicare, Medicaid and social security those are called entitlements. A lot of people callthem entitlements. But if you look up the word entitlement in the dictionary, its not a derogatory term.Youre entitled to drive your car because you own it. Thats not a bad thing its justified. Youre entitledto certain benefits under the law because the law says so because you paid in and you get them. [GriffinConway Town Hall 10:00, uploaded 8/4/11]

Griffin Railed on Washington Spending Addiction But Had Credit Card Debt

In July 2011, CNN reported that Griffin has credit card debt although he railed on Washingtonsspending addiction.

According to CNN, Theyre hard-charging, compromise-damning members of Congress, and theyvechanged the debate in Washington over the size and spending of the government. In recent days,Republican hard-liners in the debt ceiling talks have been vociferous in their rhetoric [] But accordingto recently released disclosure forms, [Sen. Mike] Lee and others in his caucus have some significantpersonal debt of their own. [] Republican Rep. Tim Griffin of Arkansas had at least $15,000 of debtaccumulated on an American Express card, according to the forms. Griffin, who won his seat with teaparty support, has recently said Washington has a spending addiction. [CNN, 7/28/11]

Griffin: Newsletter Attacked Nancy Pelosi, Mediscare and the DCCC

In August 2011, Rep. Griffith sent out a newsletter informing his supporters of the Democratic partysattacks on him as well as thanked his past donors.

Griffin wrote, I have previously written you how her friends at the Democratic Congressional CampaignCommittee in Washington opened up the thoroughly debunked Mediscare playbook to frightenArkansas seniors over my vote to save Medicare for current retirees and ensure its existence for ourchildren and grandchildren.[] It is also clear that Nancy Pelosis shadowy friends are searching for apro-Pelosi, pro-Obama candidate, and are willing to spend whatever it takes to put the SecondCongressional District under her control. [Griffin Newsletter,8/12/11]

Immigration and Border Issues

Supported Allowing immigrants with a masters or Ph. D to obtain permanent residency

In December 2011, Griffin announced his s

Documents

Griffin - Clipbook