Eric Weissmann for Congress

Infographic: Limited Government

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 21:08:00 GMT

Since 2009 -- when Jared Polis and Barack Obama took office -- our national debt has grown by 48%, from $10.6 trillion to $15.7 trillion. This is in addition to 75 new major federal regulations have been implemented costing more than $380 billion over 10 years, and another 219 additional "economically significant regulations", each costing American companies, workers, and consumers - an additional $100 million or more per year.

Washington doesn't need more politicians who talk about cutting spending without acting. The infographic below shows Kevin Lundberg has proven he doesn't have what it takes to reduce the SIZE, SCOPE and COST of government during his lengthy political career.

As a small businessman, Eric Weissmann know what it will take to shrink government. To learn about his plan for doing so, please read his proposal for the EARN Act, the first bill he will introduce if you elect Eric in November.

News Underground Interview

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 05:02:00 GMT

Eric Weissmann was recently interviewed on News Underground 1190 in Boulder. Listen here.

"Strangling Our Recovery"

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 20:40:00 GMT

One of the things I’ve heard in traveling the district and talking to voters, especially those who work in the financial services industry, is a frustration with the knee-jerk regulatory environment that ensued following the economic collapse of so many large banks in 2008. But these knee-jerk regulations are having a particularly acute impact on the smaller, community banks that finance Colorado families and businesses, choking our economic recovery.

Arbitrary and capricious regulations of community banks are stifling the flow of capital to small business and costing jobs. This is especially true in Northern Colorado where we have had a number of bank failures. Due process for regulators, as I propose below, is not just fair (and what the Founding Fathers had in mind with the Fifth Amendment) but it will lead to more capital and more jobs. One voter I spoke with, whose business has been impacted by these excessive regulations hit the nail on the head "As is typical of bureaucrats, they are fighting the last war."

Legislation has been introduced in Congress that would aim to remedy this issue and provide lenders with 5th Amendment due process rights and, hopefully, increase the flow of capital to small businesses, the driving force in our economic recovery.

The "Financial Institutions Examination Fairness and Reform Act" is bipartisan legislation, currently being discussed in House committee hearings, which would rein in regulators’ ability to impose capricious decisions that stifle the availability of much-needed, job-creating capital.

The goal of this legislation is not to remove regulatory safeguards put in place to protect taxpayers and consumers;instead, it is to ensure responsible regulatory decision-making and provide banks, credit unions, and community lenders an opportunity to appeal regulatory decisions, thus easing the flow of available capital. The bill also creates a third party ombudsman that would hear appeals, providing the due process currently lacking in today’s regulatory environment.

We need to strike a balance between regulations that protect consumers and taxpayers but also allow banks and credit unions to do what we need them to, which is make loans and stimulate the economy. If elected, I am committed to making sure legislation like this is passed. Additionally, I have proposed that if elected, I will introduce the Easing American Regulation Now (EARN) Act as my first piece of legislation. EARN would enact common-sense solutions to the over-regulation problem, restore balance back in our economy and get Americans back to work. You can learn more about EARN here.

Having been a small business owner and entrepreneur for over 30 years, I appreciate more than most how crippling these overbearing regulations are. Responsible regulation is necessary, but if we are to get our economy moving again we must take a fresh look at how to protect consumers while incentivizing growth. A fair, predictable, open and appealable regulatory environment is crucial to restoring America’s competitiveness in the world and getting our economy moving again.

INFOGRAPHIC: Kevin Lundberg and Eric Weissmann by the numbers

Wed, 30 May 2012 20:54:00 GMT

When looking at the candidates in this election, we all have one goal: Fire Jared Polis. So which Republican is best prepared to not only Fire Jared Polis, but also make a difference, reduce the deficit, and create an environment where small businesses can create jobs?

We have created this infographic so you can compare the candidates for yourself:

War on Poverty Isn't Working

Tue, 29 May 2012 22:48:00 GMT

When it comes to fighting poverty, government has failed. Since 1964 when President Johnson declared a 'war on poverty' the federal government has spent $12 trillion, but the poverty rate in America has remained almost unchanged. But in the four years since Polis and Obama got to Washington, the number of Americans in poverty has grown by roughly 6.5 million to roughly 46.5 million Americans.

Ultimately, only solid economic growth can produce the shared prosperity we need to reduce poverty in America. But, the goal of government poverty programs should be to give Americans a hand-up, not a hand out, so they can provide for their families and seek out their own version of the American dream. Instead, the so-called war on poverty has failed generations of American families. Beneficiaries of poverty programs have grown dependent on the federal government. The system fails to transition able-bodied Americans in need of temporary assistance into successfully employed wage earners.

Today there are roughly 12.5 million unemployed Americans and millions more under-employed. There are 46 million Americans receiving food stamp support, an increase of 45% since January 2009. And since 2009 when President Obama took office the federal government has spent $193 billion more on welfare programs – a 40 percent increase.

I believe that government should provide a safety net, but I also believe cradle-to-grave government subsidies hurt the economy and actually encourage unemployment by disincentivizing work. The policies of Democrats in Washington are failing America's poor.

Big government can take many forms. Barack Obama and Jared Polis have endorsed this explosion in government spending. But even well-intentioned conservatives can fall into the trap of believing that government is the answer. Instead of a top-down, government-knows-best approach, I support a bottom-up approach, in which we grant as much freedom and liberty to American workers and families as possible.

Today there are 125 anti-poverty programs (excluding Medicaid) administered by seven different cabinet agencies and six independent agencies serving 106 million Americans. If we are going to successfully reduce duplication, lower costs and restructure these programs to transition people back into the workforce, we must develop a comprehensive approach.

I suggest an approach similar to that used by the Pentagon during the Base Realignment and Closure process to restructure the poverty assistance system in America. Congress would appoint a commission to conduct an independent, thorough, and non-partisan review of poverty programs in America. The commission would be directed to develop recommendations to:

Eliminate or consolidate duplicative and overlapping programs.
Eliminate programs where waste, fraud, or abuse are systemic.
Emphasize programs and processes that move recipients out of poverty (or incentivize them to take actions that will help them escape poverty), rather than simply subsidizing them.
Devolve decision-making, wherever possible, to the States.
- If the conclusion is to block-grant a program, the block grant program must be sunset within five years. The sunset may be coupled with a reduction in taxation by an equal amount (if a state chooses to replace a program after sunset, it must be funded internally by that state).
- Block grants should carry as few strings as possible.
Total spending on these programs should be cut by 10 percent in year one, and another 10 percent in year two. This should result in savings of over $800 billion over ten years.
The recommendations of the Commission must be voted on without amendment or filibuster by both houses of Congress.

Of course, any changes America's anti-poverty programs will only be successful if, at the same time, we change direction in Washington to free our private sector, bolstering economic growth and creating a better environment for businesses to create jobs.

Americans deserve better than what Washington is delivering and that's why I'm running for Congress.

Government Still Picking Corporate Winners and Losers

Thu, 24 May 2012 16:20:00 GMT

The Government should not be in the business of picking winners and losers when it comes to American jobs. Earlier this month, Jared Polis voted to reauthorize the Export-Import Bank (H.R. 2072) and increase its lending limit by $40 billion. I would have voted against it. The Export-Import Bank now has the authority to provide $140 billion in loans to foreign corporations who receive exports from American companies, essentially picking winners and losers from corporate America and putting the American taxpayer at risk.

We have seen the disastrous effects of government intervention in the economy: look no further than Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the failed "stimulus" that was supposed to "jump start" our nation's economy.

Please check out our updated Issues section of the site to read my position on government intervention, "Government Still Picking Corporate Winners and Losers".

Eric speaks to Larimer GOP

Thu, 24 May 2012 16:13:00 GMT

On Wednesday, Eric spoke at the Larimer County Republican Club in Fort Collins. The Loveland Reporter-Herald covered the event...

"'When I woke up this morning, our country was $3 billion in debt more than it was yesterday, and it will be again tomorrow,' said Weissmann...

"'I'm the Republican who is going to fire Jared Polis... I don't want us to be the generation that breaks our promise to the next generation of a prosperous and free nation.'"

Eric Weissmann Signs Pledge to Repeal the Estate & Gift Tax

Mon, 07 May 2012 21:14:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) – Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado's 2nd Congressional District, Monday signed a pledge to the voters of Colorado and the American people that if elected to Congress he would vote to permanently repeal the federal tax on estates and gifts.

"People spend their lives working hard, paying their taxes on income, property and investments. The federal estate and gift tax punishes small businesses, family farms and individuals who work hard. The tax discourages savings by taxing death," said Weissmann.

"I am glad to join other common sense leaders who believe that we should foster the American dream rather than punish it," said Weissmann. "Repealing the federal estate and gift tax would be an important step in encouraging Americans to save not only for their own future but for future generations."

In Case You Missed It: Weissmann Campaign Puts 2nd CD Race "On the Radar"

Thu, 03 May 2012 16:18:00 GMT

The Colorado Observer covered the news recently that Eric Weissmann has achieved the second level of the Young Guns program, an important test of the campaign's readiness to win in the newly competitive 2nd District:

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) announced today that Eric Weissmann, a Republican candidate for the 2nd Congressional District, has advanced to "On The Radar" status in its "Young Guns" program.

"It is a testament to the organizational and fundraising momentum we have achieved in this race and shows that national Republicans are coming to the realization that Jared Polis is very flawed incumbent in a competitive seat," said Weissmann. "Not only must Congressman Polis answer for his unpopular budget busting, job-killing, and government-growing policies, but he must also take responsibility for his corrupt personal biotech and health care investments based on insider information as a member of Congress."

Continue reading here.

Jane Norton, Republican Leaders Endorse Eric Weissmann

Tue, 01 May 2012 06:00:00 GMT

(Louisville, CO) -- Eric Weissmann, candidate for Colorado's 2nd Congressional District, today announced the endorsement of several Colorado Republican leaders.

"Today's endorsements of my campaign are evidence of strong momentum for our message of reforming the federal government to make it smaller and simpler. Colorado Republicans are eager to nominate a candidate who can beat Jared Polis in November and promote a government that leaves as much decision-making as possible to Colorado families. I am humbled to have the support of these great Colorado Republican leaders," said Weissmann.

The following leaders today endorsed Weissmann's candidacy:

Jane Norton, former Lieutenant Governor
Ryan Frazier, Aurora City Councilman and 2010 nominee for the Seventh Congressional District
Cheri Gerou, State Representative HD 25 (Jefferson County) and Chair of the Joint Budget Committee
Sandy Hume, former State Senator, Boulder County Commissioner and Boulder County Treasurer
Eric Schmidt, former State Representative
Myrna Rodenberger, Larimer County Treasurer
Steve Bailey, 2010 nominee for the Second Congressional District

"As someone who's known Eric Weissmann for several years, I think he would make a great Congressman," Norton said. "He's a businessman who has created jobs in Colorado, knows what needs to happen in Washington, D.C. to improve our jobs climate, and isn't afraid to tackle the big and tough issues facing our country. I'm pleased to endorse Eric in his run for Congress."

"Eric Weissmann is a true principled conservative who can help restore common sense to Washington, D.C," Frazier said. "I know Colorado has something to offer our country in this time of economic uncertainty. Eric would make a big difference for Colorado and for America."

Weissmann previously announced the endorsements of additional Republican leaders, including former Senate Republican Leader Josh Penry, former Jefferson County State Representative Rob Witwer, Fort Collins City Councilwoman Aislinn Kottwitz, Longmont City Councilwoman Katie Witt, former Boulder Mayor Bob Greenlee and Colorado Springs businessman and former gubernatorial candidate Steve Schuck.

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Eric Weissmann Advances to NRCC's 'On the Radar'

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:48:00 GMT

The NRCC sent out the following press release this morning, and we wanted to be sure you heard the news. This national recognition demonstrates the growing realization that Jared Polis can be beat, and Colorado's 2nd District can have a representative in Congress who will help reduce the federal deficit, not add to it. In short, Eric Weissmann can be a Congressman who will make a difference.

Washington --- The National Republican Congressional Committee today announced Eric Weissmann as an ‘On the Radar’ candidate, the important second step in the ‘Young Guns’ program. Founded during the 2007-2008 election cycle by Reps. Eric Cantor (R-VA), Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Paul Ryan (R-WI), the 'Young Guns' program is a Member-driven effort that is the primary method for recruiting strong candidates for both open-seat and challenger races. Weissmann is running for Colorado’s Second Congressional District.

"We are looking forward to working with Eric Weissmann, who has already proven himself by meeting rigorous benchmarks in the 'Young Guns' program that will position his campaign for victory," said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX). "Eric Weissmann’s dedication and experience enables him to advocate effectively for pro-growth policies and fight the failed status quo in Washington. This will stand in stark contrast to the Obama-Pelosi record of spending, borrowing and taxing that Colorado families and small businesses know has failed."

The 'Young Guns' program encourages candidates who have proven their ability to meet crucial campaign benchmarks to develop their campaigns further in order to achieve victory on Election Day. In achieving 'On the Radar' status, Eric Weissmann has met organizational and fundraising benchmarks and has already begun to establish himself as a strong contender. Weissmann will now work toward even higher goals that will help him advance in the ‘Young Guns’ program and build an effective, winning campaign.

Eric Weissmann began his entrepreneurial career at 15. At age 21, he started a software company, Decisioneering, which grew to create over 100 jobs in Colorado. Since then, Weissmann has been involved in a number of companies, helping them to grow so that they can hire more Coloradans and help the economy strengthen. Eric Weissmann is particularly passionate about his involvement with local organizations that have a record of success working to improve opportunities for Colorado youth, especially those who are less fortunate. The son of a Romanian immigrant, Weissmann strives to ensure that hard work is always rewarded, not discouraged, and the blessings of American freedom are honored.

For more information, click here.

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COURT AFFIRMS WEISSMANN PETITION SIGNATURES, ORDERS WEISSMANN ON BALLOT

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 20:47:00 GMT

Democrat Party’s legal challenge to Weissmann’s signatures backfires

(Denver, CO) – In response to today’s Denver District Court ruling installing Eric Weissmann on the Second Congressional District Republican primary ballot, Eric Weissmann issued the following statement:

“We are thrilled with today’s ruling by the Court placing me on the primary ballot, and look forward to spirited primary and general elections.

Jared Polis and his Democratic Party minions tried to thwart the wishes of the 1,400 Republicans who want the opportunity to vote for me. This desperate ploy has clearly backfired.

By taking the unprecedented step of trying to interfere in the Colorado Republican Party’s primary election, Polis and the Democratic Party have exposed their doubts about Congressman Polis’ ability to hold this seat if I am the Republican candidate.

Polis fought the law and the law won. My message of creating a smaller Washington, D.C. that entrusts individuals and gets off the back of job creators is right for the Second Congressional District. Having failed in a court of law, Polis will now have to defend his bad votes, failed policies, and ethical shortcomings in the court of voter opinion.”

In Case You Missed It: Judge rules Eric Weissmann's petitions qualify him for GOP's 2nd CD primary

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 06:00:00 GMT

In exciting news today for the campaign, a Denver Circuit Court judge respected the wishes of over 1,000 Colorado Republicans and allowed Eric Weissmann onto the ballot. In his decision he also turned back the lawsuit filed by Colorado Democrats, allied with Jared Polis, to try and decide the election in the courtroom, not the ballot box.

From The Denver Post...

Republican Eric Weissmann will be on the ballot for the 2nd Congressional district primary, a Denver district court judge ruled this morning.

Judge Robert S. Hyatt ruled today that some, but not all of the signatures in question could be included. The allowed number were enough to put Weissmann over the 1,000-signature threshold for the June 26 ballot.

Hyatt also rejected arguments by the Colorado Democratic Party, which filed a motion to intervene stating that its own analysis determined Weissmann hadn't gathered a sufficient number of signatures, irrespective of the clerical errors.

Weissmann lashed out at Democrats today for what he called "unprecedented and outrageous" meddling in a Republican primary.

UPDATE: The Daily Camera and Colorado Peak Politics are also covering the story.

Weissmann Reports $138,912 Raised in First Quarter

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 05:04:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) – Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado's 2^nd Congressional District, today announced a first quarter fundraising haul of $138,912. Coloradans made up more than 85 percent of contributors. Weissmann has raised more money in two months since entering the race than was raised in the entire campaign by the 2010 Republican nominee.

"I am thankful to the many donors who have invested in my campaign," said Weissmann. "These figures demonstrate broad support for our campaign's message of promoting economic opportunity; building a more friendly jobs climate; and downsizing the size, cost, and scope of the federal government.

"Our fundraising success to date shows that Colorado Republicans and independents are hungry to support a candidate who can beat Jared Polis and make a difference by bringing meaningful change to Washington, D.C."

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Weissmann Petition Process Moves to New Phase

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Mario Nicolais, attorney for Republican congressional candidate Eric Weissmann, today issued the following statement upon being notified that the Secretary of State's office has initially validated an insufficient number of signatures to secure a position on the primary ballot, due to a clerical error:

"This afternoon, we learned that the Secretary of State was invalidating a large number of the Eric Weissmann campaign's ballot access petitions due to small but systematic errors in the notarization process. We will appeal the Secretary of State's invalidation to the Denver District Court. While these clerical errors are unfortunate, Colorado case law gives us considerable comfort that the campaign's petition submissions will be ruled substantially compliant with Colorado law."

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Weissmann Submits 1,398 Ballot Access Petition Signatures to Secretary of State

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 21:56:00 GMT

(Denver, CO) -- Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado's 2^nd Congressional District, this morning delivered 1,398 petition signatures to the Secretary of State's office to secure a position on the June 26 primary ballot. To gain access to the ballot, a congressional candidate must submit 1,000 signatures from registered Republicans inside the district.

"I am deeply grateful to the 1,398 individuals who have signed petitions to provide me access to the ballot in Colorado's Second Congressional District," said Weissmann. "The success of our petition-gathering campaign demonstrates strong grassroots support for my campaign to improve America's competitiveness, attract well-paying jobs, end deficit spending, and limit the size and scope of the federal government.

"Petitioning onto the ballot has built our campaign's volunteer base and allowed our campaign to talk to thousands of Republican voters in the Second Congressional District," concluded Weissmann. "It was a tremendous experience and a significant success for our campaign."


Download full size version	Download full size version

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Join us for a reception in Colorado Springs

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 20:05:00 GMT

Join us tonight in Colorado Springs for a reception with Eric Weissmann!

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

5:30-7:00pm

RSVP online here.

Hope to see you there!

For more information, please call Carolyn Bian-Lingle at

803.348.4680 or email at Carolyn@EricWeissmann.com

WEB VIDEO: Who Wants to Be a Billionaire - Congressional Edition

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:15:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) -- Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado's 2nd Congressional District, Tuesday launched a web video, "Who Wants to be a Billionaire -- Congressional Edition," calling attention to incumbent Congressman Jared Polis' efforts to profit by making investments about which he had inside information as a Member of Congress.

Since revelations of Polis' insider trading went public in Hoover Institute Fellow Peter Schweitzer’s book "Throw Them All Out" in January, Weissmann has asked Polis to disavow the practice in the future and to return the profits he made on his previous insider trading exploits to the taxpayers. Polis has had no response.

"This video tells a simple story: Jared Polis has used his exemption from the laws that apply to the rest of us for his own, personal profit. By exploiting his unique access to information about companies over which he had regulatory oversight to profit from investments, Congressman Polis has violated the public trust," Weissmann said.

"Who was Congressman Polis looking out for? Might he have been more motivated by personal profit than the public interest as he shaped this bill in the Congress? Coloradans shouldn't have to wonder.

"Coloradans deserve a Member of Congress who looks out for them, not for himself. I continue to call on Congressman Polis to disavow this practice and return his insider trading profits to the taxpayers," concluded Weissmann.

Jared Polis hypocritically threw his support behind the STOCK Act (H.R. 1148) just days after revelations were made public by Stanford University’s Hoover Institute Fellow Peter Schweitzer's book in January. The book, which called Polis' investments "creative and cynical," documents how Polis used his congressional perch to obtain information, unavailable to the general public, to profit from the adoption of certain provisions of Obamacare as the bill moved through Congress. According to the book, Polis profited handsomely by using the inside information to make multi-million dollar investments in a private medical tourism company and in biotech ETF shares, each well positioned to profit from legislative action.

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Weissmann says too many regulations, too few jobs

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 22:42:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) – Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District, Wednesday released a white paper on federal regulatory policy that will provide the framework for his first bill in Congress. The paper details a plan to unleash private sector job growth by ending the suffocating federal regulatory policies of recent years.

Since 2009 when Obama came into office, according to the Heritage Foundation 75 new major federal regulations have been implemented costing more than $380 billion over 10 years. In addition, under the Obama administration there have been 219 more "economically significant regulations" enacted, each costing businesses – and thus American workers and consumers - $100 million or more per year.

"Voters should be furious, but part of the reason this issue flies under the radar is that Congress intentionally delegates the making of many damaging, expensive rules to government agencies so that Congressmen and Senators can't be blamed. Since these rules come from faceless, nameless bureaucrats instead of elected representatives, most Americans are unaware of them – which is precisely what both Congress and the regulators want," said Weissmann.

"Over-regulation is killing jobs and holding back our economy’s recovery. It is time to unleash private sector job growth by reining in onerous, duplicative and unnecessary regulations. Doing just that will be the subject of the first legislation I will introduce in Congress.

"Clearly, there is a need for some regulation. But we must find a way to weed out the many bad regulations whose costs outweigh the benefits. Requiring a true cost-benefit analysis of each proposed regulation and requiring each new regulatory cost to be offset by a reduction in regulatory costs elsewhere are just two of the ideas that will make up the Easing American Regulation Now (EARN) Act, which I plan to introduce as my first bill in Congress.

"Simply stated, it's time for some government regulations to die, so that our economy can live. With my EARN Act's common-sense solutions to the over-regulation problem, we can put balance back in our economy and Americans back to work."

To read Eric’s full proposal and details on the EARN Act please click here or visit our website: www.ericweissmann.com.

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Join us tonight at The Sink!

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 16:59:00 GMT

Tonight is Eric's 48th birthday, and we hope you'll join us at The Sink from 5:30 - 7:00pm. Details can be found here. In honor of his birthday, it's $48 per person to attend.

Hope to see you there!

Eric campaigns across Jeffco and Broomfield

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 20:51:00 GMT

A pair of stories from The Colorado Statesman last week covered Eric Weissmann's campaign stops in Jefferson County and Broomfield, highlighting the winnability for the right Republican in Colorado's 2nd Congressional District.

First at the Jefferson County Lincoln Day Luncheon:

Jefferson County Republicans filled the Lakewood Elks Lodge to overflowing on Saturday for an unconventional Lincoln Day Luncheon and Candidate Roundup that featured a full slate of optimistic candidates and energized activists. The bellwether county is represented by Colorado’s three Democratic members of Congress and a number of swing races that could determine control of the state legislature...

[Weissmann] touted his success growing businesses -- including one he said exports products to China, drawing cheers from the crowd -- and endorsements by prominent Republicans such as former Senate Minority Leader Josh Penry and former state Rep. Rob Witwer.

He charged that Polis "talks like a Republican and wants you to think he’s pro-business and a fiscal conservative," but the candidate said he plans to hold Polis' feet to the fire over that image. "You give up your right to say that when you squander a trillion dollars of other people's money," he said.

And then at the Broomfield County Assembly:

The two main Republican candidates hoping to unseat U.S. Rep. Jared Polis delivered the same message at Monday’s Broomfield County Assembly: This year, they said, they can win.

Weissmann told the crowd of more than 100 GOPers that the old 2nd District seat -- which Republicans haven't held since the early 1970s -- bears little resemblance to the one Polis will have to defend in November.

Democrats have seen their advantage among active registered voters in the district shrink to a margin of just two points, with 34 percent of voters registered as Democrats, 32 percent as Republicans, and 33 percent unaffiliated.

Weissmann told The Colorado Statesman that redistricting is only "part of the story."

The other part of the story, Weissmann said, is about the accusations of insider trading made against Polis in a recently released book by Peter Schweizer.

"Between the vulnerability of Polis on his ethics and the redistricting, I think there is a lot of enthusiasm," Weissmann said. "I'm not sure the facts of the redistricting are widely known, but those who understand it are excited about it."

Join us on Pinterest!

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 22:55:00 GMT

A picture is worth 1,000 words, so our campaign has joined Pinterest to make it easier for you to follow us by photos. We've also added a special gallery of images from throughout the 2nd Congressional District.

Follow us at http://pinterest.com/teamweissmann/

Weissmann Urges Polis to Return Insider Trading Profits to Taxpayers

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 20:17:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) – Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District, Wednesday called on Congressman Jared Polis to return to the U.S. Treasury profits he made by insider trading.

"Colorado voters and American taxpayers are the victims of Jared Polis’ insider trading,” stated Weissmann. “To use his position of trust in the Congress to obtain inside information about legislation, and perhaps even to influence that legislation, right before his stock trades benefited from specific legislative provisions calls into question the integrity of everything Congressman Polis has done in Congress. In this case, there are technical provisions of Obamacare, enacted by the narrowest of margins, which may be law solely to benefit Polis’ massive portfolio."

"Who was Congressman Polis looking out for? Was he trying to recoup some of the nearly six million dollars of his own money that Polis spent on his first Congressional campaign?

"Congressman Polis should return his insider trading profits to the U.S. Treasury. Doing so will not put to rest questions about why he supported these specific provisions in the first place. But it will at least give Colorado voters the peace of mind that in the end he was not financially rewarded for tweaking Obamacare for his own personal benefit," concluded Weissmann. Polis is the wealthiest Democrat in the House of Representatives.

On Monday, Eric Weissmann called on Jared Polis to pledge to the voters of Colorado that he will never again engage in congressional insider trading, while legislation, known as the STOCK Act, aimed at preventing such behavior, slogs through the Congress.

Polis added his support to the STOCK Act (H.R. 1148) just days after Stanford University’s Hoover Institute fellow Peter Schweitzer revealed in his book, "Throw Them All Out," that Polis had abused his position to obtain information unavailable to the general public, and to trade on that information. According to the book, Polis used the inside information to make multi-million dollar investments in a private medical tourism company and in biotech ETF shares, each positioned to profit from legislative action.

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In Case You Missed It: GOP congressional hopefuls contend Polis is vulnerable

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT

The Longmong Times-Call ran a story this morning about the new, competitive 2nd Congressional District, and the fact that the right candidate could well beat incumbent Democrat Congressman Jared Polis.

"Boulder business investor Eric Weissmann, who's vying with Lundberg to be the Republican candidate in this year's 2nd District general election contest with Polis, said voter registration tallies after redistricting show the 2nd to be more competitive than it's been in the past, with Democrats reportedly having only a 2 percent edge over Republicans.

"'We don't have to lose this time,' Weissmann said."

Learn more about how the right Republican can beat Congressman Polis by visiting this page or continue reading the article here.

UPDATED: The Daily Camera is now covering this story as well.

Weissmann Calls on Polis to Make a Pledge Against Insider Trading

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 04:06:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) – Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District, Friday called on Congressman Jared Polis to pledge to the citizens of Colorado he will never again trade investments based on privileged information available to him because of his position in Congress, even if Congress fails to adopt the STOCK Act (H.R. 1148).

A book by Stanford University’s Hoover Institute fellow Peter Schweizer, Throw Them All Out, recently detailed exactly how Polis used his congressional perch to obtain information, unavailable to the general public, about who stood to profit from the passage of certain provisions of Obamacare as the bill moved through Congress. Polis then profited handsomely by using the inside information to make multi-million dollar investments in a private medical tourism company and in biotech ETF shares, each well positioned to profit from legislative action.

In an act of brazen hypocrisy, Polis sought political cover for his actions by endorsing the STOCK Act, but only after publication of Schweizer’s book showed him caught red-handed profiting from inside information.

“That the STOCK Act is stuck on Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s desk and is in jeopardy of not finding its way to the President’s desk even after its passage by the House is an indication of just how broken Washington really is,” said Weissmann.

“Whether or not the STOCK Act makes it to the President’s desk, Congressman Polis owes the voters of Colorado an apology. I call on Congressman Polis to pledge to the voters of Colorado that he will not engage in these corrupt, abusive and unethical practices again, irrespective of the status of the STOCK Act.

“Remember Amendment 41?” concluded Weissmann. “Polis was a financial backer of this so-called ethics initiative, put to Colorado voters in 2006. Two years after helping bankroll the measure’s passage, Polis went to Congress and profited from this astonishingly unethical act. Congressman Polis’ commitment to ethics seems evident only when politically convenient and necessary. The people of Colorado deserve better than this cynical and hypocritical behavior.”

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ICYMI: Colorado's 2nd Congressional District Now Competitive

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 21:18:00 GMT

According to The Colorado Observer, Colorado's 2nd Congressional District is competitive for the first time since 1998.

Republicans could end up with a scenario that hasn’t happened in years, a contested primary for the 2nd Congressional district. Previously seen as a safe seat for incumbent Congressman Jared Polis (D-Boulder), with the last close race not occurring since 1998, the contours of the district were altered significantly in redistricting, making it suddenly competitive. That has attracted a steady stream of challengers into the race, with the current count of GOP candidates at three.

In 2010, Congressman Polis comfortably rode to re-election, winning by almost 20 points. When a Denver district judge adopted the Democrats’ proposed redistricting map, which was later upheld by the Colorado Supreme Court, the district shifted to become what is now a 34% Democratic, 32% Republican and 33% Unaffiliated registration balance. Since redistricting was finalized in December, the district has seen a 2-point gain in Republican registration, providing further encouragement for the GOP challengers.

ICYMI: Rep. Polis says Weissmann would "be a fine congressman."

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 21:32:00 GMT

Rep. Jared Polis made some flattering remarks about Eric Weissmann in an interview with the Colorado Statesman. He described Weissmann as "a good friend, a capable guy… He’d be a fine congressman."

We’d like to thank the Congressman for his kind remarks. Congressman Polis is likewise a smart and capable candidate. Eric had hoped he would be a different type of Democrat. Unfortunately, Polis has used his vote in the Congress to advance a dangerous agenda, make the federal government much bigger and more intrusive. His support for initiatives like ObamaCare, stimulus spending, Cap and Trade, and Card Check offend the sensibilities of Colorado's newly redistricted Second Congressional District.

But we do appreciate Congressman Polis' recognition of Eric's leadership capabilities and commitment to serving his community! If you also think Eric is "a capable guy" and he would "be a fine congressman," please consider becoming a volunteer or making a contribution today!

In Case You Missed It: Big Money Front and Center in 2nd Congressional District Contest

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 20:07:00 GMT

From The Colorado Observer

Big Money Front and Center in 2nd Congressional District Contests
2/23/2012
By Tina Nguyen

WASHINGTON, DC – During his formal campaign kickoff announcement earlier this month, Boulder-based investment banker Eric Weissman joked that he would not be able to “out Jared Jared” in his effort to unseat the incumbent, Democratic Congressman Jared Polis.

Though the comment was a subtle dig at Polis's self-financing abilities -- the sixth richest member of Congress, the tech entrepreneur has an estimated worth of nearly $66 million dollars according to Roll Call -- the issue of wealth has new significance for this year's race. A recent insider trading scandal has tied Polis to a widespread practice among Congressmen who use their exclusive access to non-public information to make investments.

The practice is illegal for most Americans, but not for Members of Congress -- a little known fact. That is, until recently, when a joint investigation by 60 Minutes and Peter Schweizer of Stanford University's Hoover Foundation uncovered multiple incidents that would normally be classified as insider trading by lawmakers.

» Continue reading here

In Case You Missed It: Republican hopes to give Polis a run for his money

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:02:00 GMT

From the Colorado Statesman...

Weissmann announces GOP candidacy in CD 2
Republican hopes to give Polis a run for his money
2/20/2012
By Ben Conarck

Republican businessman Eric Weissmann's candidacy for CD 2 against popular and well-funded Democratic incumbent Rep. Jared Polis is, by many accounts, a longshot. But recent voter registration numbers from the Colorado secretary of state show that the race -- at least on paper -- may be closer than originally anticipated.

Initially, when borders were finalized after redistricting last year, Democrats enjoyed a 4-point advantage over Republicans among active voters, but that lead has dwindled to just two points, according to registration numbers released in February.

The new data paints a more competitive picture of the 2nd CD, with 34 percent of active voters registered listed as Democrats, 32 percent registered as Republicans, and 33 percent unaffiliated...

Last Wednesday, Weissmann issued a press release rolling out a series of endorsements from other Republicans.

The release listed endorsements from Bob Greenlee, former Boulder mayor and a former candidate for the CD 2 seat before Polis took office; Aislinn Kottwitz, Fort Collins City Councilwoman; Josh Penry, former Senate Republican leader; Steve Schuck, Colorado Springs businessman and former candidate for governor; Katie Witt, Longmont City Councilwoman; and Rob Witwer, former state Representative from Jefferson County...

Weissmann said he is the only candidate in the district race who offers a "pro-liberty, pro free-market" approach.

"I focus on reducing the interference of government in our lives and in our businesses," he said...

» Continue reading here

ERIC WEISSMANN SIGNS NO-EARMARK PLEDGE

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 18:08:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) -- Eric Weissmann, candidate for Colorado's 2nd Congressional District, today pledged not to seek any earmarks in the next Congress. Weissmann is the only candidate in the race to sign the pledge, drawing a sharp distinction between himself and his opponent, incumbent Congressman Jared Polis.

As described by the pledge’s sponsor, Americans for Prosperity, "earmarking" is the process used by members of Congress to redirect taxpayer funds to identified projects without going through a rigorous merit review process.

"Spending 'earmarks' are among the most odious and corrupting of congressional practices," observed Weissmann. "Members of Congress use earmarks to direct money toward politically-connected donors and supporters. In some cases, Members of Congress have even earmarked federal monies to entities in which they have a personal financial interest. This is just wrong. Any real reform of Washington has to start with ending earmarks.

"Not only has Jared Polis refused to sign the pledge against seeking earmarks for even a single term, but he has personally sought millions of dollars in earmarks. On the issue of spending, there is a clear difference between Jared Polis and me. Instead of leaving in place a mechanism that incentivizes Members of Congress to spend more money, I want to pursue reforms that reduce government spending.

"From the stimulus, to Obamacare to earmarking, Washington's spending binge continues unchecked under Jared Polis," concluded Weissmann. "We have to do better."

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Eric Weissmann Statement on the Passage of the STOCK Act

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:00:00 GMT

(Louisville, CO) -- On Thursday Eric Weissmann, candidate for Congress in Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District, made the follow statement regarding the passage of the STOCK Act (H.R. 1148) to put an end to congressional insider trading.

"It is unfortunate that we cannot rely on members of Congress to do what’s right without having to pass legislation. The reports of members of Congress, including Congressman Polis, using inside information to invest in public and private companies that stand to benefit from Congressional activities is shameful and needs to be handled seriously if we are going to restore faith in our government.

"The passage of the STOCK Act by both the House and Senate is a good first step in deterring these abusive practices, but doesn’t go far enough to protect the American people from members of Congress who chose to act with self-interest over public good.

"I hope that in the conference process, members of the House and Senate will incorporate some of the provisions proposed in the RESTRICT Act (H.R. 3550) that would have every member of Congress invest their money in a blind trust or publish their investments publicly in real time, leaving no question about the investments they make. The RESTRICT Act also covers both public and private companies and leaves no loopholes for members to do the wrong thing.

"Members of Congress fail to realize they’ve been elected to serve their constituents and work to make their lives better, not the other way around. If elected, I will demand higher standards for members of Congress and work to restore faith in our government at a time when we desperately need it."

Businessman Eric Weissmann is a candidate for Congress from Colorado's 2nd Congressional District. More information can be found at www.ericweissmann.com

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Republican Leaders Endorse Eric Weissmann

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:00:00 GMT

(Boulder, CO) -- Eric Weissmann, candidate for Colorado's 2nd Congressional District, today announced the endorsement of several Colorado Republican leaders.

"I am humbled to have the support of some of Colorado's great Republican leaders," said Weissmann. "These endorsements are evidence of strong momentum for our message of reforming the federal government to make it smaller and simpler."

The following leaders today endorsed Weissmann's candidacy:

Bob Greenlee, former Boulder Mayor
Aislinn Kottwitz, Fort Collins City Councilwoman
Josh Penry, former Senate Republican leader
Steve Schuck, Colorado Springs businessman, education reform advocate and former gubernatorial candidate
Katie Witt, Longmont City Councilwoman
Rob Witwer, former State Representative from Jefferson County

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Businessman Eric Weissmann Launches Bid For Colorado's New 2nd Congressional District

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:50:00 GMT

(Louisville, CO) – Eric Weissmann, a successful small businessman from Boulder, today announced his candidacy for Colorado’s new Second Congressional District, which includes all of Larimer, Broomfield, Grand, Gilpin, Clear Creek and Summit counties and parts of Boulder, Jefferson, Park and Eagle counties.

"Colorado’s Second Congressional District can contribute to a new, can-do philosophy in Washington, D.C. that transcends typical party labels and whose hallmark is a ‘leave us alone’ approach to federal government. I offer a quintessentially Western, freedom-oriented mindset embodied by voters from across the political spectrum in this part of Colorado.

"I believe the Second Congressional District has so much more to offer this great nation in this time of challenge than just a congressman who rubber stamps the agenda of his political party and its allied interest groups. We can do better."

Promising a “simpler and smaller federal government that respects the individual and the states,” Weissmann proposed several reforms to rein in runaway deficit spending, implement a simpler and fairer tax system and promote a vibrant, dynamic, job-creating market economy.

"The incumbent says he supports freedom, but his actions demonstrate a top-down, Uncle Sam knows best philosophy,” said Weissmann. “Bailouts, subsidies for favored industries and corporations, regulation, Obamacare and the 2009 ‘stimulus’ votes define Jared Polis. He believes Washington knows best.

"I’m running for Congress because I’m concerned that we might be the first generation to break our promise to the next generation of a freer, better future; because I am frustrated and angry at the dysfunctional antics in Washington; and because the only people with a chance to make things better – to really make a difference in this crazy time – are not the politicians climbing a career ladder, but people like me who’ve been successful in the private sector and exercised leadership in their communities,” concluded Weissmann.

Weissmann, a first-generation American who grew up in the district, has been involved in several successful business ventures, starting at age 15. At age 21, he started the software firm Decisioneering, which grew to employ more than 100 Coloradoans. Since selling Decisioneering, Weissmann has acquired and invested in a number of growth companies.
Weissmann is actively involved in a number of Colorado community and charitable organizations, with a special emphasis on improving educational opportunities for at-risk youth.

Eric and his wife, Jennifer, reside in Boulder and are the proud parents of three children.

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Eric Weissmann Calls On Congressman Jared Polis To Return $1,000 Contribution Made In 2008

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 07:00:00 GMT

(Louisville, CO) – Eric Weissmann, newly announced candidate for Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District and one-time contributor to Jared Polis, today asked for his money back from Polis.

"We've actually been friends going back many years," Weissmann said in addressing supporters as he launched his campaign today. "I even gave him $1,000 in his first primary election. Now before my Republican friends here have an aneurism, let me point out it was a primary, there wasn't even a Republican in the race, and my support for GOP candidates has been unwavering.

"But Polis spoke as though he understood the principles of liberty and the free market. He promised to be a new kind of Democrat. But here's what I didn’t know -- that the new kind of Democrat was going to be even worse than the old kind. ObamaCare. Stimulus. Auto bailouts. Cap and Trade. And the list goes on and on.

"So Congressman -- when you watch this on YouTube -- pay attention to this: you have let me down. You broke your promise to be pro-market, and you do not embody the pro-liberty values you led me to believe we shared. You have put the interests of your political party first. Jared: I – WANT – MY – THOUSAND – DOLLARS – BACK – NOW!"

Colorado's new Second Congressional District includes all of Larimer, Broomfield, Grand, Gilpin, Clear Creek and Summit counties and parts of Boulder, Jefferson, Park and Eagle counties.

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