Bachmann - Clipbook

8/2/2019 Bachmann - Clipbook

1/19


2/19

Budget Issues

Claimed to Have Found $450 Billion in Cuts

In January 2011, on an appearance on Hannity, Bachmann said I am no longer raising the debt limit.She said she and her staff had sat down and found $450 billion in cuts. [Hannity, 1/06/11]

Impact of the Republican Budget on Medicare

According to the Energy and Commerce Committee, Ryans budget affected CongressmanBachmanns district in the following ways:

Increase prescription drug costs for7,500 Medicare beneficiaries in the district who enter thePart D donut hole, forcing them to pay an extra $74 million for drugs over the next decade.

Eliminate new preventive care benefits for80,000 Medicare beneficiaries in the district. Deny 600,000 individuals age 54 and younger in the district access to Medicares guaranteed

benefits.

Increase the out-of-pocket costs of health coverage by over $6,000 per year in 2022 and byalmost $12,000 per year in 2032 for the 131,000 individuals in the district who are betweenthe ages of 44 and 54.

Require the 131,000 individuals in the district between the ages of 44 and 54 to save an additional$30.6 billion for their retirement an average of$182,000 to $287,000 per individual to payfor the increased cost of health coverage over their lifetimes. Younger residents of the district willhave to save even higher amounts to cover their additional medical costs.

Raise the Medicare eligibility age by at least one year to age 66 or more for76,000 individuals in

the district who are age 44 to 49 and by two years to age 67 for471,000 individuals in the districtwho are age 43 or younger. [Committee on Energy and Commerce, June 2011]

Claimed to Have Found $450 Billion Available to Slash from the Federal Budget

In January 2011, Bachmann said she went through all discretionary spending and found about $450billion that should be cut from the federal budget. She said on ABCs Top Line, "My staff and I satdown, we've looked at the federal budget, and just our first swipe across the budget, so to speak, we'vecome up with about $450 billion worth of cuts. [The Hill, On the Money Blog, 1/07/11]

Said She Will Try to Get Money to Her District Despite the Earmark Ban

In December 2010, Bachmann said there must be a way to fund the transportation projects thatwere so often the beneficiaries of earmarked money. She said, This isnt trying to be too cute byhalf of what is an earmark and what isnt. But we have to address the issue of how are we going tofund transportation projects across the country? Bachmann even argued that Article I of theConstitution gives Congress the authority to make discriminatory decisions, which meansproactive decisions about which roads are built.[Politico, 12/9/10]

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3/19

Bachmann: We Must Undo Government Takeover of Bank and Automobile Manufacturers

In her February 2011 visit to Hawaii, Bachmann said she feels the country needs a strong constitutional conservative to undogovernment takeover of private companies such as banks, insurers and even General Motors.

Bachmann spoke to a group convened by the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, a think tank that promotes limited government.[Star Advertiser, 2/03/11]

Bachmann: Let Glenn Beck Fix the Deficit

In a February 2011 speech at CPAC, Bachmann suggested that fixing the deficit was a task best left to Glenn Beck,rather than elected representatives.She said, We need to simply tell people the facts, like Glenn Beck, with that chalkboard, that man can explainanything. I think if we give Glenn Beck the numbers, he can solve this. [U.S. News and Politics,2/22/11]

Voted for Budget Cut that Put North American Wetlands Conservation Act in Jeopardy

In April 2011, the Grand Forks Herald reported that Bachmann voted for a budget cut that will put the North American

Wetlands Conservation Act one of the most successful wetland conservation programs of all time in jeopardy. Theprogram has created more than 8,500 jobs and generated more than $200 million. [Grand Forks Herald, 4/3/11]

Flaked on Republican Budget Proposal

In May 2011, Bachmann said she was not one completely and entirely behind the Republican budget proposal. She said hersupport for Paul Ryans budget included an asterisk for the Medicare proposal.

She said, "One position that I'm concerned about is shifting the cost burden to senior citizens. Seniors are saying, 'Look, I'm notin a position to be able to handle that.' I also share that real fear. That's why I put the asterisk out there." [CNN,5/01/11]

Business and Consumer Issues

Promised to Introduce Bill to Decrease Corporate Tax Rate

In January 2011, Bachmann said she will introduce a bill titled the End Tax Uncertainty Act of 2011 thatwould reduce the corporate tax rate to twenty-five percent, permanently extend current tax rates for allAmericans, repeal the death tax and gift tax, and prevent a tax increase on the maximum tax rate forcapital gains and dividends income for all. [Fox News, 1/05/11]

Criticized Bailouts of Automotive Industry and Financial Industries

In January 2011, during a speaking engagement for the Iowans for Tax Relief, Bachmann berated the

bailouts of General Motors and Chrysler, as well the large financial institutions. [Minnesota Independent,1/22/11]

Campaign and Campaign Finance Issues

Supported a Rep. Steve King Presidential Run while Citing Her Own Inexperience

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4/19

In an October 2009 interview, Bachmann said King was a potential presidential candidate for 2012. She said, Steve King ismentioned as a potential nominee. I have a very high opinion of Steve King and his ability, so I would encourage him toconsider any position for higher office. [Huffington Post, 10/20/09]

Denied Considering Presidential Run

In an October 2009 interview, Bachmann claimed she was not considering a run for president. She said, Goodness, Ive onlybeen in the House for three years, so, no, Im not considering anything like that. [Huffington Post, 10/21/09]

Campaign Committee May Have Skirted Federal Campaign Finance Regulations

In February 2011, the FEC wrote to the Bachmann campaign asking for itemization of nearly $1.5 millionin individual contributions.

The FEC also noted that, judging by her first report following the Nov. 2 elections, Bachmann may havefailed to file one or more of the required 48-hour notices regarding last minute contributions.

In a related discrepancy, the letter noted three contributions listed in 48-hour notices that were not notedin the overall post-general election report.

Finally, the FEC found three refunds Bachmann listed but couldnt find when those donations wereoriginally given. [Roll Call, 2/08/11]

Note: The Bachmann campaign has since responded and we are looking into the legality of their

response.

Worked with Arizona GOP on a Joint Fundraiser to Benefit Bachmann

In March 2011, Bachmann participated in an Arizona GOP fundraiser in which all proceeds would go to her congressionalaccount. [Politico,3/03/11]

Raised $2.2 Million in 1st Quarter of 2011

In April 2011, the New York Daily News reported that Bachmann had raised $2.2 million during the first quarter of the year,leading other GOP presidential hopefuls. Her congressional campaign committee brought in $1.7 million from January 1 toMarch 31, while an additional $500,000 went to her PAC. [NY Daily News,4/2/11]

Debt Ceiling

Campaigned (For President) on Opposition to Debt Limit

In a presidential campaign ad, Bachmann said, We cant keep spending money we dont have. [New York Times,7/07/11]

Said She Would Support a Debt Ceiling Vote only If Health Care Reform Was Repealed

In May 2011, according to The Hill, Bachmann insisted that any vote to raise the debt ceiling must be attached to a measure tofully defund President Obama's healthcare reform law a long-shot provision, since the Senate remains in Democraticcontrol. [The Hill,5/9/11]

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5/19

Campaigned (For President) on Opposition to Debt Limit

In a presidential campaign ad, Bachmann said, We cant keep spending money we dont have. [New York Times,7/07/11]

Bachmann Said the Debt Impasse Is Not an Emergency

During a July question-and-answer session at the National Press Club, Bachmann reaffirmed her belief that raising the debtceiling poses no threat to the markets or to the American public. She brushed off warnings that the U.S. would facedisastrous consequences if it did not meet the August 2 deadline saying, "I do not believe for one moment that we will lose thefull faith and credit of the United States. [CNN, 7/28/11]

District Issues

Bachmanns BridgeIn March 2011, Bachmann introduced legislation creating a loophole in the current law to build a new four-lane bridge overone of Americas most endangered rivers. It is estimated the project would cost taxpayers over $640 million. [Minnesota Public

Radio,3/01/11]

Introduced Legislation For Bridge Over St. Croix River

In May 2011, Bachmann introduced legislation for a bridge over the St. Croix river, connectingMinnesota and Wisconsin. She said her purpose for the bridge was to improve mobility and that althoughthe states might be spending money on the construction, they would be paid back through use.

Over a twenty-year period, the travel time savings and reduction of crash costs will significantly improvemobility and economic output to the tune of over $883 million, she said. [hometownsource.com,5/4/11]

National Parks Service Believed Bridge Would Impact River

In Fall 2010, the National Parks Service said the bridge would have a direct and adverse impact on the river. Theorganization was particularly concerned with sustaining the scenic view through the area. [St. Cloud Times,5/5/11]

Complained About Environmental Groups Against Her Bridge

In May 2011, Bachmann blamed her bridge troubles on environmental agencies bureaucratic overreach.

The radical environmental groups-again-are coming in and stomping their feet and throwing up a red flag, and its allover the issure of visual pollution, she said. [Washington Post, 5/2/11]

Introduced Bill to Exempt Boondoggle Bridge from Environmental Restrictions

In July 2011, the House heard testimony on exempting the St. Croix Bridge from environmental restrictions; the bill to do thatwas sponsored by Bachmann and cosponsored by Duffy, Kind, and Cravaack. Sens. Klobuchar, Franken, and Kohl are also infavor of the bridge. Environmental groups strongly oppose the legislation and call it a boondoggle. [Stillwater Patch,7/28/11]

Economic and Financial Issues

Bachmann Sought to Repeal Wall Street Reform

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6/19

In 2011, Bachmann sent a letter asking for co-sponsors for a bill that would repeal the Dodd-Frank WallStreet reform law enacted in 2010. Bachmann claimed her repeal bill had been endorsed by the Club forGrowth. In the letter, she wrote, It is time to repeal this job killer. This is a frightening abuse of powerand will do nothing but stymie our recovery. [Minneapolis Star, Hot Dish Blog, 1/04/11]

Education IssuesScolded Wisconsin Democrats, Teachers over Teacher Strike

In February 2011, Bachmann said the teachers strike was unconscionable and criticized absent Wisconsin Democrats fordereliction of duty. She gave Gov. Walker and the legislature words of encouragement and also recalled President Reagansmass firing of striking air traffic control workers, saying, [I]f we look back to what President Reagan did, President Reaganfired the air traffic controllers. Were on day three of Wisconsin teachers leaving their posts and leaving the children thattheyre tasked serve and not teaching them so that they can go out and protest so they can make more money. This is beyondconscionable and Im urging Gov. Walker and the legislature to hang tough because I believe the people are with the governorand the legislature.

She also added that asking workers to contribute more to benefits was something that happens every day in the private

sector. [Daily Caller,2/18/11]

Criticized Federally Funded Student Loans

In January 2011, Bachmann severely criticized reform of the federally subsidized student loan program byfalsely claiming the government completely runs the student loan industry. [Minnesota Independent,1/22/11]

Suggested Eliminating the Department of Education

In September 2011, Bachmann said that if elected president she would drastically pare back the federal government, possiblyby doing away with the U.S. Department of Education.

She said, "The Constitution does not specifically enumerate nor does it give to the federal government the role and duty tosuperintend over education," Bachmann said. "That historically has been held by the parents and by local communities and bystate government. To put that into the federal government as we saw a Department of Education in the late 1970s haseviscerated the constitutional understanding that the control of education truly lies with the parents." [CNN, Video here,9/05/11; International Business Times, 9/06/11]

Energy Issues

Environmental Issues

Voted for Budget Cut that Put North American Wetlands Conservation Act in Jeopardy

In April 2011, the Grand Forks Herald reported that Bachmann voted for a budget cut that will put the North AmericanWetlands Conservation Act one of the most successful wetland conservation programs of all time in jeopardy. Theprogram has created more than 8,500 jobs and generated more than $200 million. [Grand Forks Herald, 4/3/11]

Ethics Issues

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7/19

Worked as IRS Tax Collector

During her presidential campaign, Bachmann said she worked for the IRS as a federal tax litigation attorney. Numerous taxattorneys said IRS tax litigation attorneys represent the government against delinquent taxpayers, effectively acting as a taxcollector. Bachmanns most noteworthy case occurred in the early 1990swhen she refused to accept a Chippewa Indians

argument that part of his income was shielded from taxes under an 1867 federal treaty. [Wall Street Journal,7/11/11]

Pushed for Bridge Earmark despite Anti-Spending Stance

In July 2011, Bachmann supported the construction of a bridge that has been accused of being an earmark. The measure wasco-sponsored by Rep. Duffy. They claim the new four-lane bridge over the St. Croix River is necessary to handle increasedtraffic and that the request is not an earmark because no costs were listed in the bill. [New York Times, 7/20/11]

Paid Nearly $4,700 for Hair and Makeup in a Matter of Two Weeks

According to Bachmann's latest campaign finance filings, Bachmann has spent nearly $4,700 from her campaign account onhair and makeup since June 13. Bachmann made three payments of $1,715, $250, and $2,704 for hair and makeup to TamaraRobertson, a Maryland-based stylist who works as a makeup artist at Fox News in the Washington, DC metro area.

According to Mother Jones, Bachmanns campaign records show less than $1,000 in similar spending in 2010. A formermakeup artist of Bachmanns said that Bachmann had previously tried to avoid paying for hair and makeup, saying, "I knowfor a fact if Michele has to pay for makeup she will usually instead do it herself." [Mother Jones, 7/26/11; FEC.gov, accessed7/26/11; Minneapolis City Pages, 2/14/11]

Missed Dozens of Votes for Presidential Campaign

Between the time of her announcement of her presidential run and July 22, 2011, Bachmann missed 51 votes. The week of July18, she missed 45 out of 47 roll-call votes and returned only to vote on the Cut, Cap, and Balance bill.

She missed much of the debate on the debt ceiling, as well as voted on the FAA reauthorization and a scaling back of theDodd-Frank bill she had previously worked to repeal. Her record of after her presidential announcement contrasts with herrecord from earlier in the year; she missed just one of the first 412 roll-call votes of 2011. [Star Tribune, 7/23/11]

Traveled to Latin America with Intelligence Committee

In February 2011, Bachmann traveled to Latin America with members of the Intelligence Committee. The total cost ofBachmanns trip was $2,103.66. The total includes $662.36 for her per diem and $1,441.30 for transportation in commercialand military aircraft. [Official Foreign Travel Report, 5/23/11]

Used Taxpayer Funds for Tea Party Event

In November 2009, Bachmanns taxpayer-funded office account shared the $13,630 cost for the sound system at a Tea Partyevent with Reps. King, Price, and Akin. Bachmanns share was $3,407.50. Taxpayer funds cannot be used for political events,but Bachmanns office said the event was a press conference which can be covered with official funds. However, no questionswere taken from reporters and activists chanted Kill the bill! at the event. Roll Call reported this behavior is not common at

press conferences. [Roll Call, 6/20/11]Frequently Reported Minor Incidents to the Police

Bachmann and her staff have called the police several times during her career due to perceived threats.

In one instance, a woman cornered Bachmann in a bathroom prompting Bachmann to file a police report describing a possiblefalse imprisonment case. The case was dropped due to conflicting accounts and a lack of any strong corroboratingevidence that would suggest criminal activity.

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8/19

In another instance, Bachmanns home phone number was posted by protestors, so she called the Stillwater police in case shestarts to get threatening phone calls according to the report.

She also reported the theft of her campaign yard signs in 2002 and the egging of her house in 2007.

None of her complaints have ever resulted in arrests. [Miami Herald,7/11/11]

Bachmann spent $349,789.17 in Q4 2010

In the fourth quarter, Bachmann spent $349,789.17 total in her congressional offices. [Statement of Disbursement,3/01/11]

Bachmann spent $1,796.08 on Franked Mail in Q4 2010

In the fourth quarter, Bachmann spent $1,796.08total in her congressional offices solely on franked mail. [Statement ofDisbursement, 3/01/11]

Bachmann spent $19,067.61 on Travel in Q4 2010

In the fourth quarter, Bachmann spent $19,067.61total in her congressional offices solely on travel. [Statement of

Disbursement, 3/01/11]

Former COS Would Vote for Pawlenty over Bachmann in 2012 Presidential Race

In March 2011, Bachmann's former chief of staff, Ron Carey, said he will vote for former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty overBachmann, should she plan to run for President. [The Hill,3/24/11]

Said Bachmann Is Not Ready for the Presidency

Carey added, "While she passes the conservative test, my opinion from my association with her is she's not going tobe an electable candidate for us. And even if she were elected I don't believe she would be ready for the position of thepresident of the United States." [The Hill, 2/09/11]

Compared Knowledge of the US Governments Power to Knowledge of the Holocaust

In May 2011, Bachmann compared Americans knowledge of the Holocaust during World War II to Americans

understanding of the growth of federal power today. She said, "I tell you this story because I think in our day and time,there is no analogy to that horrific action," she said, referring to the Holocaust. "But only to say, we are seeing eclipsed in frontof our eyes a similar death and a similar taking away. It is this disenfranchisement that I think we have to answer to."[KARE11, 5/01/11]

Washington Post Headline: Bachmann excels at attracting controversy but wields little influence

on Hill

From a Washington Post article entitled, Bachmann excels at attracting controversy but wields little influence on Hill:

"Despite her fame and her skill at attracting controversial headlines, Bachmann has yet to leave her mark as apolicymaker or legislator. On Capitol Hill, she holds little sway with her colleagues and has guided no substantiallegislation into law. A bill Bachmann introduced last year to clear the way for the new Stillwater bridge - her top localpriority - attracted no co-sponsors and died in a subcommittee. One of her biggest legislative accomplishments to datewas approval of a 2009 resolution supporting National Hydrocephalus Awareness Month, to bring attention to thebrain disorder. Bachmann says there is a reason for this: She is unwilling to adopt many of the skills traditionallyassociated with success in Congress - inside maneuvering, charming committee leaders and trading favors withcolleagues." [Washington Post, 5/01/11]

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9/19

Doing More Media Appearances and Self-Promotion than Legislating

Also from the Washington Post article: However one measures the effectiveness of Bachmannswork, there is no questioning her work ethic. She is a constant whirl of motion, stabbing furiouslyat her iPhone and iPad with one finger. She does not sit behind a desk. If Im standing up, I workfaster, she said. But much of Bachmanns workday is geared toward boosting her personal brand.Television and radio appearances are a regular part of her workweek. She appeared on cableshows at least 45 times last year, according to the liberal watchdog Media Matters for America,almost all of them on Fox News Channel. [Washington Post,5/01/11]

Foreign Policy Issues Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea

Health Care Issues

Bachmann Fought Against MN Governors Expansion of Medicaid Assistance.

In January 2011, Bachmann issued a statement urging Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton not to sign anexecutive order to expand the states Medicaid program, calling the program burden. [Bachmann PressRelease, 1/04/10]

Repeatedly Called Health Care Reform Socialized Medicine

In January 2011, during a speaking engagement for the Iowans for Tax Relief, Bachmann called theHealth Care Reform Law socialized medicine. After her speech, Bachmann was asked by The IowaIndependent to elaborate how health care reform legislation was socialized medicine, given thelegislation included no government-run insurance plan to compete with private insurers. If we want tokill Obamacare, if we want to end socialized medicine it must be done in the next election. It will be our

charge to repeal Obama [and to] repeal a very liberal Senate. [Minnesota Independent, 1/22/11]

Motivation in Life Is to Repeal Health Care Reform

In February 2011, Bachmann said her one goal everyday is to work to repeal health care reform. She said, "I take my firstpolitical breath every morning with one thought in mind - repeal Obamacare. That's my motivation in life. ... This bill issomething else. It is the crown jewel of socialism. President Obama, and I'm willing to say it, ushered in socialism under hiswatch." [Missoulian, 2/05/11]

Assailed Democrats for Placing Funding of Health Care Reform in Mandatory Spending

In March 2011, Bachmann said on the House floor, Make no mistake about itthe effort on the part of Steve King is todefund ObamaCare. This Chamber already passed a bill to repeal ObamaCare, which the American people have asked. This is

now an effort to defund ObamaCare We only found out recently that literally tens of billions of dollars have already beenappropriated to fund ObamaCare. It was put in mandatory spending, spending where this Chamber would not have access tobe able to defund the bill. If we are unable to defund the bill now, make no mistake, Mr. Chair, this Chamber and the Americanpeople will do everything they can to make sure they put into place a new President, a new Senate, and a House that will havethe requisite courage to finally defund the government takeover of health care. [Bachmann Floor Remarks on KingAmendment 266 to HR1, 2/18/11]

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10/19

Immigration and Border Issues

Israel

Labor and Working Family IssuesArgued in Favor of Stripping Workers of their RightsIn a February 2011 speech to conservatives in South Carolina, Bachmann defended stripping Wisconsin unions of their abilityto bargain, arguing that management should legally have the right to rescind benefits they promised.She said, "We've got to get real about what we can and cannot afford. [Reuters,2/19/11]

LGBT Issues

Miscellaneous Issues

Criticized Settlement for Black Farmers

In July 2011, Bachmann criticized federal subsidies provided for a multibillion dollar settlement for black farmers after havingbeen discriminated against for decades in agriculture loans and other aid. In the name of saving somewhere around $1.3billion, Bachmann said she opposed the distribution of funding for those who were denied payments in the earlier 1999 Pigfordcase settlement.

She said, "When money is diverted to inefficient projects, like the Pigford project, where there seems to be proof-positive offraud, we can't afford $2 billion in potentially fraudulent claims when that money can be used to benefit the people along theMississippi River and the Missouri River." [Washington Examiner,7/18/11]

Made Trip to Montana for Speaking Engagement

Bachmann was slotted to attend the Lewis and Clark Lincoln-Reagan dinner in Helena, MT in earlyFebruary to raise funds for the local Republican Party. Lewis and Clark County Republican CentralCommittee Chair Bridget Holland said of Bachmanns visit, She is in great demand for speakingengagements throughout the country. We are very fortunate Michele Bachmann will be our guest inMontanas capital city [Minnesota Independent, 1/18/11]

Bachmann Traveled to Montana to Spew Tea Party Rhetoric for Rep. Rehbergs Senatorial Announcement

In February 2011, Bachmann spoke at Denny Rehbergs Senatorial candidacy announcement dinner in Montana. She

used inflated rhetoric such as telling the audience Obama was in the midst of his "reign of error" and saying her firstpolitical breath every morning was to repeal Obamacare. [Missoulian, 2/05/11]

Keynote Speaker in DC for Anti-Abortion Groups

In January 2011, Bachmann was honored as a keynote speaker at a $75 banquet for anti-abortion groups.The 2011 Rose Dinner was slated as the culminating event of three days of pro-life activities in ournations capitol. [Minnesota Independent, 1/18/11]

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11/19

Met with Iowas Leading Republicans During Trip to the State

In January 2011, Bachmann traveled to Iowa to speak at an Iowans for Tax Relief event and met withmajor Republican heads from the state including Gov. Terry Branstad and state GOP chairman Matt

Strawn. [Politico, 1/20/11]

Called Iowans the Nicest, Best Looking and Smartest People

During a January 2011 trip to Iowa in an expected presidential run, Bachmann said to a crowd of 300 at areception in Des Moines for the Iowans for Tax Relief, Iowans are the nicest people, they're the bestlooking people, they're the smartest people, no wonder everybody wants to come to Iowa! It should be noshock that a girl wants to come here." [Mankato FOX, 1/22/11]Traveled to Hawaii

In February 2011 Bachmann spoke at a luncheon in Honolulu at the Ala Moana Hotel to discuss the 2011 congressional session

in an event sponsored by the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii [WKBT, 2/02/11]

Told Reporter She Was Doing District WorkBut Was in Hawaii

After a phone call to her DC congressional office, a reporter was told that Bachmann was not able to speak aboutcurrent events because she was concentrating on "district work." [MinnPost, 2/02/11]

Will Next Travel to South Carolina

On February 19, Bachmann will head to South Carolina to headline a lunch with the South Carolina Federation of RepublicanWomen in Greenville and a dinner hosted by the Spartanburg County Republican Party in Spartanburg. [Politico, 2/02/11]

Afraid Naked Pictures from Airport Body Scanners Will Appear on Internet

In February 2011, Bachmann spoke out against the presence of full body scanners in airports and said shewas afraid naked pictures of herself would appear as a result of walking through said machines.

Bachmann says she'd prefer U.S. airport security mimic Israeli airport security, which includes multipleface-to-face interviews with airport security and passengers and a form of profiling with extra attentionpaid to those whose behavior suggests they're not just at the airport to catch a flight. Critics of that systemsay it's a short slide down the slippery slope to racial profiling. [MinnPost.com, 2/01/11]

Presidential Aspirations

Promised to Mimic Spirit of John WayneThe Serial Killer?

In June 2011, Bachmann kicked off her presidential campaign and promised to mimic the spirit of John Wayne, who sheclaimed was a native of Waterloo, Iowa. The movie star never lived in Waterloo, but John Wayne Gacy, the serial killer, did.[Politico, 6/27/11]

Refused to Answer Whether President was Born in America

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12/19

In February 2011, Bachmann sidestepped questions about President Barack Obama's citizenship, saying "we should take thepresident at his word" but refusing to definitively say herself that he's an American-born citizen. Bachmann continued Whenthe president makes his statements, I think they need to stand for their own. When pressed further, she continued to deflectthe questions stating she wanted to focus instead on the fact two-year anniversary of the stimulus program. [Politico,2/17/2011]

MichelePAC hired top Huckabee Consultant in Iowa

In April 2011, Bachmanns political action committee MichelePAC hired Wes Enos a former top aide to Mike Huckabees2008 campaign to serve as a consultant in Iowa. [Blog, The Hill,4/04/11]

Bachmann: I Come Here As One of You An Iowan

In April 2011, Bachmann drew comparisons to Sarah Palin during a visit to Iowa, where she was exploring whether to seek theRepublican presidential nomination.

It isnt that I was born thinking I had to be president, Bachmann said,Im getting a lot of encouragement to run from peopleacross the country. I dont believe this is a rash decision.

I come here as one of you an Iowan! Bachmann said. [NY Times,4/03/11]

Bought e Ad By Obamas 2012 Presidential Announcement Video

In April 2011, Bachmann purchased a video advertisement alongside President Obamas YouTube reelection videoannouncement. The video features Bachmann attacking spending for the new health care law. [Politico, 4/ 0 4/11]

Bachmann Snubbed by Very Close Friend

In March 2011, former Senator Norm Coleman, a self-described very close friend of Michele Bachmann, endorsed TimPawlenty for president. [MinnPost, 3/29/11]

Second Amendment Rights

Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and Entitlement Programs

Husband Accepted Medicaid Funds

Bachmanns husband accepted $137,000 in Medicaid funds to provide counseling services through his clinic, Bachmann &Associates. [Gawker,6/29/11]

Supported Republican Budget to Deny over 70,000 Minnesota Seniors Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage

After voting for the 2012 Republican budget, Bachmann said, So really, in a lot of ways, it should be called the 55 and under

plan, because anybody 55 years of age or older will not be touched.

Yet, under the Republican budget, 71,867 Minnesota seniors will pay $40 million more for prescription drugs next year alone.[Democratic Policy and Communications Center, 4/21/11; Senate Democrats on the Donut Hole Provision,4/14/11]

Tax Issues

Gave Presentation on Flat Tax and National Sales Tax

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13/19

In her February 2011 visit to Hawaii, Bachmann berated congressional spending and, without advocating for one plan over theother, she discussed tax proposals that Congress could consider, including a flat tax rate or a straight consumption tax, alsoknown as a national sales tax. [Star Advertiser, 2/03/11]

Compared Tax Burden To The Holocaust

In May 2011, Bachmann tried to compare the tax burden she believed the future generation would come to bear to theHolocaust. She said as a child she would ask her mother if she did anything to stop the Holocaust and that children in the nextgeneration will say the same thing about someone trying to stop the tax burden.

"I tell you this story because I think in our day and time, there is no analogy to that horrific action. But only to say, we areseeing eclipsed in front of our eyes a similar death and a similar taking away. It is this disenfranchisement that I think we haveto answer to, she said.

"The question comes down to this: what will you say to that next generation about what you did to make sure that wouldn't betheir fate?" she said. [KARE 11,5/1/11]

Openly Supported Flat Tax

In May 2011, Bachmann attended a rally against tax increases. She openly supported a abolishing the tax code and instituting aflat tax.

"We can have the federal reserve stop printing money and financing the debt. We can have them stop having them buying ourt-bills from the united states treasury. we can have them stop spending money that we don't have, she said. [MPR News,5/7/11]

Tea Party

Supported Reforming Farm Subsidies Even As Tea Partiers Accepted Them

Tea Partiers accepted large farm subsidies even as Boehner criticized the Farm Bill as a slush fund. Bachmann accepted$250,000 in farm subsidies. [Opinionator (NYT),3/1/11]

May Have Ties to Radical Christian Reconstructionists

In January 2011, Bachmann appeared on an episode of a TV series produced by the Coral RidgeMinistries, a right-wing religious media empire, focusing on Obamacare. Coral Ministries is consideredby many religious scholars to be affiliated with Christian Reconstructionists, who take the radical viewthat Jesus Christ will not return to earth until Christians have taken over all forms of government, amongother things. Also appearing in the show were Reps. Mike Pence of Indiana and Allen West of Florida.Bachmann's appearance in the January 9 Coral Ridge episode is far from her first affiliation with thegroup. She's been a regular on Coral Ministry broadcasts, even starring in a documentary it produced lastsummer warning about the evils of encroaching socialism. Last fall, she headlined the "How to Take BackAmerica" conference, which has been taken over from Coral Ridge by WorldNetDaily, the conservativenews website.[Mother Jones, 1/10/11]

Warned the U.S. Is Under Attack During Iowans for Tax Relief Event

In January 2011, Bachmann spoke at an event organized by Iowans for Tax Relief and spoke of herdoubts that the U.S would continue as a global leader. She warned the 150 attendees of that event thatAmerica is under attack by a thundercloud of debt weighing upon [the U.S.]. She spoke her doubts

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14/19

that the U.S. would continue as a great nation under the policies of the current government. [MinnesotaIndependent, 1/22/11]

Compared Americas Global Position to Slavery

At the Iowans for Tax Relief banquet, Bachmann said todays struggle is much like that of slaveryduring the Civil War. She said of Americas standing, Its an underlying issue in the struggle ofour time is a slavery of a different kind. Because it is a slavery. It is a slavery that is a bondage todebt and a bondage to decline. Thats what that slavery entails. Its the subservience of a sovereignpeople we are a sovereign people to a failed self selected elite. That would be our fate.[Minnesota Independent, 1/22/11]

Invited Justice Scalia to Speak at First "Conservative Constitutional Seminar"

Bachmann invited Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia to speak about the Constitution for her firstseminar. A Bachmann spokesperson defended the event, arguing that it was billed as a bipartisan event

despite its title and that the event was entirely appropriate. [Star Tribune, 1/23/11]

Allegedly Closed Event to Media at Bachmanns Request

Bachmann's office said the meeting is closed to the media at the court's request. However,Supreme Court spokeswoman Kathy Arberg said it was Bachmann's office that set the guidelinesfor the event. [Star Tribune, 1/23/11]

Asked Justice Scalia to Speak at Seminar She Had Organized

In January 2011, Bachmann convened the first Conservative Constitutional Seminar and brought inJustice Scalia to serve as an expert witness and speaker for the three dozen House members that showedup. [Wall Street Journal, 1/25/11]

Sent Dear Colleague Letter and Invitation to the Tea Party Caucus

In January 2009 Bachmann sent a Dear Colleague inviting members to join the Tea Party Caucus andattend the inaugural meeting which she had invited Stan Collender to speak at. [Bachmann DearColleague, 1/29/11]

Collender: GOP Budget Policy Expert, Said Raising Debt Ceiling Is Inevitable

Stan Collender is a partner at the Washington, D.C.-based Qorvis Communications. He writes a

column on "Fiscal Fitness" for Roll Call and maintains the widely read (on Capitol Hill anyways)Capital Gains and Games blog.

When asked by Business Week about a Tea Party-affiliated Republican freshman representativewho said he's staunchly opposed to raising the debt ceiling (a position Bachmann has also taken),Collender replied that "Raising the ceiling is virtually inevitable.... The only question is: Who'sgoing to blink first?" [MinnPost.com, 2/07/11; Businessweek, 2/03/11]

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15/19

Keynote Speaker at CPAC

In February 2011, Bachmann appeared at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) inWashington, D.C. as the keynote speaker. [Journal Sentinel, 2/09/11]

Used Derogatory and Offensive Joke to Ask CPAC Attendees about the Debt to China

At the February 2011 CPAC conference, Bachmann attempted to make a derisive joke to the crowd of conservatives about theAmerican debt. She said with all the money we owe China, I think we might rightly say, Hus your daddy! referrencingChinese President Hu Jintao, whose country holds more U.S. debt than any other. [Wall Street Journal, 2/10/11]

Said Obama Has Ushered in Socialism Over the Last Two Years

On Feb. 10, 2011, Bachmann addressed a crowd of conservative activists, and said that we have seen President Obama usherin socialism under his watch over the last two years.

Postulated that College-Age Adults Will Pay Most of their Income to the Government

At the February 2011 CPAC conference, she argued that college-age adults will eventually pay the federal

government three-quarters of their income if Obama wins a second term in 2012. Socialism might sell well in aHarvard faculty lounge. But when it comes to finding a job, not so much. she said jokingly. [Wall Street Journal,2/10/11]

Compared Wisconsins Protests to Reagans Firing of Air Traffic Controllers

In February 2011, Bachmann said that the unions protesting in Wisconsin are public servants theyserve the people of Wisconsin and compared the efforts of Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker to thefiring of air traffic controllers under President Reagan. She said, the protest was beyond conscionable.[Talking Points Memo, 2/18/11]

Bachmann Defended Gangster Government Comment

In March 2011, Bachmann refused to take back her inflammatory comment comparing the Obamaadministration to a "gangster government." Bachmann had blogged that the debt ceiling would be one ofthe most significant challenges to the start of the 112th Congress and that Congress simply cannotcontinue to operate under the pretense of gangster government, raising the limit upon our whim.

Bachmann said, "I dont take back my statement on gangster government. I think there are actions takenby this government are corrupt."[Politico, 3/06/11]

Incorrectly Used Revolutionary War Reference to Refer to the Wrong State

In March 2011, Bachmann mistakenly told a Manchester GOP crowd, Youre the state where the shot was heard around theworld at Lexington and Concord.

She caught flak for the comment because the Revolutionary War began in Massachusetts, not New Hampshire.

The Revolutionary War began, not in New Hampshires capital, but in the famous two towns more than 50 miles away inMassachusetts.

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On Facebook, Bachmann responded to her snafu, So I misplaced the battles Concord and Lexington by saying they were inNew Hampshire. It was my mistake, Massachusetts is where they happened. New Hampshire is where they are still proud ofit! [Politico,3/14/11]

Incorrectly Cited the Abolition of Slavery as Beginning with the Founding Fathers

In January 2011, Bachmann claimed the Founding Fathers sought to end slavery, saying, The very founders that wrote thosedocuments worked tirelessly until slavery was no more in the United States.

While some of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were in favor of abolishing slavery, they were, of course, deadwhen the institution was ended following the Civil War. [Politico, 3/14/11]

Incorrectly Referred to General Petraeus for Advice in Libya

In March 2011 on NBCs Meet the Press, Bachmann responded to a question concerning the need to remove MuammarQadhafi from power, she said, We are extended now in Afghanistan and Iraq, and I think for us to consider further penetrationat this time, we need to listen to Gen. Petraeus and what he has to say.

Bachmann, a member of the House Intelligence Committee, should know that Petraeus is the commander of American forcesin Afghanistan and is not in the chain of command when it comes to military decisions about Libya. [Politico,3/14/11]

Announced Exploratory Committee for President

In March 2011, Bachmann announced she would be launching an exploratory committee for the presidency in June or possiblybefore. [CNN,3/24/11]

Said Obama Is Bending Down to Dictators, Brown-Nosing Europe and Babying the JihadistsIn a February 2011 speech, Bachmann publicly criticized President Obama saying, "He is bending down to dictators, and he isbrown-nosing the elites that are in Europe, and he's babying the jihadists who are following Sharia-compliant terrorism."[Huffington Post, 2/20/11]

Praised Tea Party While Criticizing Boehner

In May 2011, Bachmann encouraged the Tea Party to keep up the fight against the debt ceiling, a possible swipe toBoehners leadership that was elemental in the debate.

"Thank you to the Tea Party for not giving up the fight. Your stubborn determination to return our country to its foundingprinciples gives me great hope for conservative accomplishments in the current House of Representatives and for even greatervictories in 2012," she said [The Hill, 5/9/11]

Re-Introduced Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act

In March 2011, Bachmann reintroduced the Light Bulb Freedom of Choice Act which would repeal a 2007 mandate thatimplements new efficiency standards for light bulbs and would phase out traditional incandescent bulbs in favor of fluorescentones. A previous version of the legislation died in the Democrat-controlled House. She said in a statement, The government

has no business telling an individual what kind of light bulb to buy. This mandate has sweeping effects on American familiesand businesses and needs serious consideration before taking effect. [Minneapolis Star Tribune,3/02/11]

Transportation Issues

Sponsored Bill That Would Cut at Least $394 Million in Central Corridor Rail Line Linking Minneapolis and St. Paul

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In February 2011, Bachmann co-sponsored a bill that would cut at least $394 million in funding for the Central Corridor light-rail line that links Minneapolis and St. Paul, potentially threatening the completion of the line.

The project, funded by the New Starts program which provides money for transit projects, has been a target of Bachmann andthe Republican Study Committee for deficit reduction. The Central Corridor project was one of the six projects nationwide thatreceived an overall medium-high ranking, which was the highest rating given to the 23 New Starts projects nationwide.Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin said to his knowledge no New Starts project that was allowed to proceedwas ever denied federal funding. [Star Tribune, 2/15/2011]

Veterans Issues

Veterans Groups Sharply Criticized Bachmanns Plans to Cut Benefits

In January 2011, veterans groups responded with shock and anger to Bachmanns proposal to cut about$4.5 billion from its annual $125 billion budget, including a cap increase to health care spending forveterans while reducing some disability compensation. [New York Times, The Caucus Blog, 1/28/11]

Veterans for Common Sense: Bachmanns Proposal Is Outrageous

In a message to its membership, the executive director of Veterans for Common Sense called theproposal outrageous because 10,000 new veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan flow into theveterans health system each month. [New York Times, The Caucus Blog, 1/28/11]

Veterans of Foreign Wars: No Way, No How

The Veterans of Foreign Wars, the oldest and largest of veterans groups released a statement fromits national commander, Richard L. Eubank, saying: No way, no how, will we let this proposalget any traction in Congress. [New York Times, The Caucus Blog, 1/28/11]

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America: Oh hell no!

Paul Rieckhoff, executive director of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, posted an ArmyTimes article on his Facebook page under the words, Oh hell no! [New York Times, The CaucusBlog, 1/28/11]

Paralyzed Veterans of America: Short-Sighted, Dangerous and an Insult

Paralyzed Veterans of America National President, Bill Lawson stated, "CongresswomanBachmann's plan is short-sighted, dangerous and an insult to the men and women who have served

and sacrificed for our freedoms. [Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1/28/11]Retreated from Original Proposal to Cut Veterans Benefits

In February 2011, after an outcry from veterans groups, Bachmann backed off her suggestion that Congress consider cuttingveterans benefits. In a statement Friday on her website, Bachmann wrote shes removing the veterans cuts fromconsideration. She said, The problem of government spending must be solved, but not on the backs of our nations warheroes. [St. Cloud Times, 2/05/11]

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Womens Issues

Supported Surreptitious and Deceitful Filming of Pro-Choice Clinics

In February 2011, Bachmann threw her support behind an anti-abortion activist group who made undercover videos of aPlanned Parenthood clinic in New Jersey. Bachmann said the video, and the fact that Planned Parenthood offers abortion as

part of its services, should result in a ban on federal grants for the reproductive health chain.

Following the release of a video by LiveAction, an anti-abortion group that specializes in ambushing Planned Parenthoodclinics, that appears to show a Planned Parenthood staffer in New Jersey telling a pimp and his prostitute how to obtainservices for girls as young as 14.

She said in response to the video, Planned Parenthood performed 324,000 abortions in 2010. That should be enough reason toensure that it never receives another taxpayer dollar from our government. But alarming new revelations about PlannedParenthood raise questions about whether the organization is breaking the law. [Minnesota Independent, 2/04/11]

Planned Parenthood Called FBI to Report the Supposed Crime

Following the encounter, Planned Parenthood called the FBI to report a potential sex-ring involving minors.

The Planned Parenthood staff member reacted professionally to a highly unusual person posing as a patient,Planned Parenthood said in a statement. After the encounter, the staff member immediately notified her supervisor,who subsequently notified members of Planned Parenthoods national security team, who are working with the FBI,which is investigating these visits. [Minnesota Independent,2/04/11]

Floor Speech: Justified Defunding of Planned Parenthood Because It Too Closely Competes with For-Profit Clinics

In February 2011 on the House floor, Bachmann issued her support for the defunding of Planned Parenthood in the Penceamendment offered to the Republicans 2011 continuing resolution.

She said that the organization has become too involved in politics and is competing too well with for-profit clinics that it does

not deserve federal aid. She said, it is clear after extensive study and review by this Wall Street Journal what we are seeingtoday is that Planned Parenthood is focused on political activity, and they are focused on becoming big businessPlannedParenthood, a billion-dollar organization, should lose the $300 million they receive in Federal grants, and they should also havetheir tax-exempt status seriously studied by the Internal Revenue Service. [Bachmann Floor Remarks on Pence Amendment toHR1, 2/17/11]

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Documents

Bachmann - Clipbook