As If You Needed Another Reason Not To Vote For Him

Rick Santorum moved one step closer to re-election the other day when he received the most important endorsement of all: The one of NASCAR stars.

Yes, as part of a new coalition called Racing For Rick, several NASCAR officials and drivers — Richard Petty, Bobby Labonte, Darrell Waltrip, Jeff Burton, etc. — weighed in with support for our state’s current junior senator.

If you’re not exactly a fan of Santorum, don’t let this endorsement sully NASCAR’s name for you. This is merely individual drivers supporting Ricky. And it’s not like they’re endorsing his social views, either. No, this time it’s simply a matter of that old political chestnut of you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours:

Jack Roush, President of Roush Racing, made the following comments: “I have always admired Senator Santorum for his leadership, tenacity and commitment to getting the job done. He is a fighter for what he believes in. And he doesn’t back down when the going gets tough. Rick has also been a champion for an issue that is of great importance to me. He is working to pass legislation that would positively impact the motorsports community by clarifying the tax code for our industry. His efforts are greatly appreciated, and I am proud to stand by him during his reelection campaign.”

Rick gives it 110 percent! He takes it one race at a time! He plays the game like a kid! He’s trying to get NASCAR tax breaks!

Full release after the jump.

June 9, 2006

Virginia Davis
215-528-xxxx
virginiad@ricksantorum.com

NASCAR Stars Endorse Rick Santorum for Reelection

Blakeslee, PA — At a news conference this evening, Senator Rick Santorum received the endorsement of Jack Roush, President of Roush Racing and Michael Helton, President of NASCAR. During the event, they also kicked-off Racing Fans for Rick, a coalition of grassroots activists who enjoy motorsports and are committed to Senator Santorum’s reelection. Learn about the coalition at www.RacingForRick.com.

Jack Roush, President of Roush Racing, made the following comments: “I have always admired Senator Santorum for his leadership, tenacity and commitment to getting the job done. He is a fighter for what he believes in. And he doesn’t back down when the going gets tough. Rick has also been a champion for an issue that is of great importance to me. He is working to pass legislation that would positively impact the motorsports community by clarifying the tax code for our industry. His efforts are greatly appreciated, and I am proud to stand by him during his reelection campaign.”

“Rick Santorum demonstrates leadership at its core. There aren’t many politicians who actually do what they say they’ll do, and stand up for what they believe in,” said Michael Helton, President of NASCAR. “What some folks may not know is that Senator Santorum has been a great friend and ally to NASCAR and the motorsports community. The facilities and tracks in Pennsylvania include the nationally known Pocono Raceway right here in Monroe County, Lake Erie Speedway, and Maple Grove Raceway. These and other raceways in Pennsylvania hold NASCAR and other racing events, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans each year. Senator Santorum recognizes the role that motorsports racing plays in Pennsylvania, and I am pleased to support him for reelection.”

Senator Santorum said, “It is a great opportunity to stand with these fine gentlemen and discuss a sport that is enjoyed by so many in Pennsylvania. Every year the Pocono Raceway draws hundreds of thousands of fans to NASCAR events which generate significant local revenue for this community. I appreciate the support of many in the NASCAR community.”

Last year, Senator Santorum introduced the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act, legislation that would permanently extend the current treatment of investments made to motorsports entertainment complexes. If passed, the Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act will clarify tax treatment by the Internal Revenue Service of the growing motorsports industry. In addition to Jack Roush and Michael Helton, Senator Santorum has been endorsed by Jeff Burton, Bill Elliott, Bobby Labonte, Richard Petty, and Darrell Waltrip. Please visit www.RacingForRick.com to learn more.

The endorsements of Jack Roush and Michael Helton are their own and not the organizations they represent.