Or-01 Clip Book-Updated 2012. 01.11
Or-01 Clip Book-Updated 2012. 01.11
Or-01 Clip Book-Updated 2012. 01.11
Ad 3: Cornilles Attacked Bonamici on Taxes In his first attack ad against Bonamici Cornilles said she voted for tax increases. The job creator or the partisan politician? The Oregonian reports, Senator Bonamici has one of the most liberal voting records in Salem. Shes voted for 60 tax increases, hurting the middle class and small businesses. Incredibly, Bonamici cant recall ever voting against a tax increase or fee hike. Bonamici cant recall ever voting against a tax increase or fee hike The Oregonian, 12/19/11 And she has no record of job creation. Its time for a job creator. We have to focus on bi-partisan solutions that create real jobs. I'm Rob Cornilles and I approve this message. [Change We Need, Uploaded, 1/3/12] Ad 2: Cornilles Touted Self as Job Creator In his first ad of the 2010 general election Cornilles touted his record of creating jobs. Alison Cornilles: We have three great boys. We were worried about them being able to find jobs here in Oregon when they get older. Rob Cornilles: Yeah, people are struggling. They dont know if theyre going to be able to find work and thats why my number one priority in Congress will be to create jobs. Announcer: Rob Cornilles proven job creator. Rob Cornilles: As a small business owner who has created jobs. I know what it takes to move this economy, to give people a brighter future. Announcer: Read the Cornilles Commitment online. Rob Cornilles: We have to focus on bipartisan solutions that create real jobs. Im Rob Cornilles and I approve this message. [Cornilles for Congress ad, 12/8/11] Criticized Bonamici for Negative Ads, Despite His Own Previous Negative Campaigning In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles criticized his opponent, Suzanne Bonamici, for running negative ads against him, and said that there was already too much negativism in politics. However, Bonamici countered by pointing out that Cornilles went negative on her by claiming she voted party-line 98% of the time while a state legislator. [News Yamhill County, 12/13/11] Ad 1: Cornilles Claimed He Would Protect Medicare and Social Security; Touted Job Creation Im Rob Cornilles. Like you Ive had it with Washington. Politicians more concerned with their job than yours. And both parties are at fault. We need a new direction. Im a small business owner whos created jobs. In Congress Ill take an independent route. Grow jobs, reduce the debt, protect Social Security and Medicare. Sending more politicians to DC wont change things. Im running for Congress because we can do better. Thats why I approve this message. [Cornilles for Congress, uploaded 10/24/11]
Note: Cornilless ad is similar to Rep. Blumenauers ad Cornilles was Running Through Oregons Third Congressional District in First Ad In 2011, the Daily Kos pointed out that in Cornilless first ad he is shown running through Oregons Third Congressional District. Downtown Portland, which features in the ads background just across the Willamette River, is in the 1st CDbut that same river divides the 1st from the 3rd, so to capture a picturesque view of that part of the city, you have to situate yourself in OR-03. [Daily Kos, 10/26/11] Cornilles Ad Took a Page Out of the Romney Playbook The Fix reported that Cornilless ad took a page out of the Romney playbook. Oregon special election candidate Rob Cornilles (R) takes a page out of Romneys book, with an ad featuring him running literally for Congress. [Chris Cillizza, Washington Post, 10/26/11] Ad Showed Cornilles Running in Wrong District Cornilles ran away from district in ad that was filmed in the wrong district. Hes standing on the Eastbank Esplanade, with the downtown Portland skyline behind him. Setting aside the questionable politics of being the downtown Portland candidate in a district that runs all the way to McMinnville and Astoria - the basic fact is that on his run through the district, he actually wound up in Earl Blumenauers district. After all, the Willamette River is the dividing line between OR-1 and OR-3. [Blog, Blue Oregon, 10/26/11] Cornilless Campaign Manager Said Only Part of Ad Was Shot in the 3rd District Cornilless campaign manager said only a few seconds of the ad were shot in the 3rd district. Hotline reported, Daily Kos pointed out this morning that part of the Cornilles ad was actually shot in Blumenauers 3rd District, not the 1st. Cornilles campaign manager Mary Anne Ostrom said that its only the last few second of the ad that were shot in the 3rd - across the Willamette River so that the camera could capture the 1st Districts skyscape. [Hotline, 10/25/11] First TV Spot Devoid of Party Affiliation In 2011, it was reported that Cornilless first television spot was devoid of any mention of the word Republican, as the GOP nominee works to define himself as an Independent and separate himself from party leadership. [National Journal, 11/10/11]
First Ad of Special Targeted Democratic Voters
In 2011, Cornilless first ad of the special focused on a message targeted at Democratic voters. The Republican is telling voters hell be an independent voice and a change from former Rep. David Wu. [Roll Call, 10/27/11]
Choice
Oregon Right to Life Sent Out Mailer Touting Cornilles as an excellent pro-life voice in congress In 2011, a mailer was sent out on behalf of Cornilles by the Oregon Right to Life PAC, which touted that Cornilles would be an excellent pro-life voice in congress. The mailer read Of the two candidates running for Congress in your district, only one stands up for the little guy. Rob Cornilles for Congress. Rob Cornilles will be an excellent pro-life voice congress. Rob committed to fighting abortion and is a strong supporter of parental notification laws. Unlike his opponent, Rob is opposed to using tax funding for abortion, including hidden funding within the Obama Healthcare plan. Robs opponent, on the other hand, is one of the nations most extreme advocates of abortion, including voting in favor of partial-birth abortion FOUR TIMES. Please vote Rob Cornilles for Congress. The other candidate supports the extreme interests of the pro-abortion lobby. David Wu: Elected to Congress in 1998: Congressional Votes: Voted against the ban on Partial-Birth abortion FOUR TIMES! Voted against the Unborn Child Pain Awareness Act in 2006: Voted against the Unborn Victimes of Violence Act THREE TIMES! Endorsements: 2010 NARAL Pro-Choice America: Voted Against the Child Interstate Notification Act in 2005: Voted against the Child Custody Protection Act Voted for the Obama healthcare bill: Voted against efforts to remove abortion funding from the healthcare bill: David Wus Voting Record is Among the Most Extreme in Congress. Authorized and Endorsed by the Oregon Right to Life PAC. [Oregon Right
to Life PAC, accessed 12/5/11]
Was Pro-Life, Backed by Oregon Right to Life and Supported Restricting Access to Abortion In 2011, Cornilles was backed by Oregon Right to Life and described himself as pro-life and supports restricting access to abortion. [Oregonian, 12/1/11] Claimed He Supported Allowing Abortion in Cases of Rape and Incest In 2011, Cornilles claimed that contrary to Right to Life, he supported allowing abortion in cases of rape and incest. Cornilles said Im pro-life with exceptions in the case of rape, incest, and the life of the mother. [Oregonian, 12/1/11] Claimed He Supported In Vitro Fertilization In 2011, Cornilles claimed that contrary to Right to Life, he supported in vitro fertilization. [Oregonian,
12/1/11]
Claimed He Supported Embryonic Stem Cell Research In 2011, Cornilles claimed that contrary to Right to Life, he supported embryonic stem cell research.
[Oregonian, 12/1/11]
In 2011, Cornilles claimed he was pro-life, but supported an exception for the life of the mother. Cornilles said I dont believe we should use federal tax dollars to pay for abortions. [Oregonian, 12/1/11] Accused Opponent of Supporting Public Funding for Abortions, Late-Term Abortions and Abortions for Minors Across State Lines In 2011, Cornilles accused Bonamici of favoring public funding for abortion, late-term abortions and allowing a minor to go across state lines for an abortion. Cornilles said With the exception of protecting a young girl from an abusive parent, I cant support taking a minor across state lines for an abortion without a parents knowledgeSen. Bonamici supports partial birth abortions up to the final days of a pregnancy. I do not. [Oregonian, 12/1/11] Pro-Life Candidate In 2011, it was reported that although Cornilles was pro-life. [Editorial, Willamette Weekly, 10/19/11] Said He is Pro-Life Cornilles said, Im pro-life. [Americans for Prosperity Meeting, 1/19/10] Pro-Life Cornilles said he is pro-life, but I always have been grateful that we can make that choice. [Daily Astorian,
1/21/10]
Touted Endorsement from Oregon Right to Life At a Democracy in Action forum in 2010, Cornilles touted his endorsement from Oregon Right to Life. I can assure you that you would not have the endorsement of the Oregon Right to Life unless you were pro-life. I am the only candidate on the stage who has indicated his pro-life, in that he got the endorsement of the Oregon Right to Life, Cornilles said. [Democracy in Action forum, 4/20/10] Received Independent Expenditure Help from Oregon Right to Life According to FEC filings, Oregon Right to Life spent over $50,000 in independent expenditures, including over $30,000 in mail and over $18,000 in phone calls. The National Right to Life organization spent $852 in radio ads in support of Cornilles. [FEC.gov] Received Oregon Right to Life Endorsement in 2010 In 2011, Life News reported that Cornilles was pro-life and received the Oregon Right to Life endorsement in 2010. Republican Rob Cornilles is pro-life. In 2010, he earned the endorsement of Oregon Right to Life, the states largest pro-life organization that works to protect human life
both from abortion and from assisted suicide, which is legal in Oregon. In addition, Cornilles opposes the pro-abortion Obama healthcare law. [Life News, 9/19/11]
Agriculture Issues
Trusted Food Growers to Protect Consumers When asked about food safety Cornilles said he trusted those who grew food to do what is right. Being a native Oregonian, Ive always trusted my neighbors to do whats right. Now sometimes people disappoint us, but I trust Oregonians, those who grow our foods, those who look after our natural resources. I trust them to do whats right, to preserve that which we have here. He went on to say We need to make sure that laws and regulations are followed and when theyre not, punishment should be meted out to those people. But we have a flourishing industry right now in Oregon, farmers markets in almost every community in our state, certainly our district, and those need to be protected we need to encourage that kind of organic growth. [League of Women Voters, 10/20/11]
spend as much as you bring in. Right now we dont have that requirement on the federal level, thats why we have these deficits that were running each and every year. He went on to say I support a balanced budget amendment, the problem with a balanced budget amendment, if we enacted it immediately is, if you remember were in a 1.3 trillion dollar deficit this year, and if its a law that you cant spend more than you can bring in, wed have to cut 1.3 trillion dollars of servicesWe have to slowly work to a balanced budget. Thats my proposal, I think its a fair way and I also think its a measured way so as not create so much hurt across the country. [West View High School
Forum, Part 1, 00:31, 10/17/11]
Said He Would Have Voted to Raise Debt Ceiling In a 2011 radio interview, Cornilles said the debt ceiling had to be raised because America had to pay its bills. Cornilles said, As it relates to the current debt ceiling crisis as they called it, you know the fact is we should have never gotten to that point. Why did we have to raise the debt ceiling? Its because we borrow money we dont have And for those who might argue that we shouldnt have raised the debt ceiling, well no one will ever know for certain because we actually did it, some would argue that we should not have done it and we would have been able to pay our bills anyways. I do not subscribe to that thinking. I think we had to do it for the good of the country. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 2, 8:40, Posted
9/23/11]
Supported Balanced Budget Amendment In 2011, columnist Dave Lister wrote that Cornilles supported a balanced-budget amendment, but recognizes that Draconian spending cuts cant happen overnight. [Columnist, Dave Lister, Oregonian, 9/29/11] Said Solution to Debt Crisis was Growing Private Sector In 2011, columnist Dave Lister wrote that Cornilles said the debt crisis would not be solved without growing the private sector. Until we get people back to work so theres less dependence on government services, we are going to have to continue to borrow money we dont have. This is a pivotal period that requires more than a Republican or a Democrat. It requires proven career builders, not proven career politicians. [Columnist, Dave Lister, Oregonian, 9/29/11]
knowledge of the barriers to innovation and growth erected by those who have never run a small business. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11] Favored Simple Tax Code, Trade Opportunities and Reducing Regulation In 2011, Cornilles said he favored simplifying the tax code, opening up trade opportunities and reducing regulation. He wrote, Heres the solution: We need to create certainty for small business owners and those who would invest in Oregon by simplifying the tax code, reducing burdensome regulation, encouraging entrepreneurs, and opening up trade opportunities. Stifling regulations that hurt our traditional industries like fishing and timber must be reconsidered. While responsible regulation is needed to manage our natural resources and provide sustainability, an abundance of regulation isnt the answer. [Op-ed, Rob Cornilles, Daily Astorian, 10/26/11] Advocated for Federal Government Loaning Resources to Small Businesses Cornilles advocated for loaning resources to small businesses instead of relying on the federal government. Instead of relying on the federal government to blow through 780 dollars of pork earlier this year, more reasonable mind wouldve argued to loan resources to small businesses who make up 90% of the companies in Oregon, so that they can in turn invest in new hires and training their people with marketable and sustainable skills, in new product development, in infrastructure, in other resources and necessities that would lead to sustainable careers and economic growth. Instead of the pork that we got that not only creates temporary projects, but eventually leads state and city governments to tax even more so they can pay for those projects and their maintenance and upkeep. [Portland Tea Party speech, Part 2, 3:03,
9/7/11]
Endorsed by The Portland Business Alliance In 2011, Cornilles was endorsed by The Portland Business Alliance in the First Congressional District primary. Cornilles earned the nod because of his private sector experience and commitment to creating jobs. [Portland Business Journal, 10/13/11]
In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles supported the strongest potential disclosure and transparency requirements on campaign advertising. Cornilles said, I adamantly oppose, however, shadow groups that do not have to disclose their donations. Just as organizations have a right to speak, voters have a right to know who is speaking. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
Claimed to Disagree that Wealthy Individuals, and Lobbyists Were more Important Than Opinions Of Constituents In 2011, in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that he disagreed that wealthy individuals, and lobbyists were more important that the opinions of constituents. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Led in Fundraising According to October 2011 Quarterly Report In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles led fundraising efforts in Oregons First Congressional District, having raised over $505,567, according to a quarterly fundraising report filed in October. [Daily Astorian,
11/7/11]
Headed Into General Election with $422,492 Cash on Hand In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles, headed into the general election with $422,492 cash on hand.
[Yamhill Valley News-Register, 11/5/11]
Cornilles Received Campaign Cash from GOP Leaders In 2011, Cornilles received money from GOP leaders in Congress. For example, Cornilles received $5,000 from the Every Republican is Crucial political action committee, which is affiliated with House Majority Leader Eric Cantor. He also received $1,500 from four other committees affiliated with congressional Republicans. [Oregonian, 10/28/11] Said He Had Not Taken Money from the Republican Party Because He Did Not Want to Be Beholden to Them In 2010, Cornilles said So Ive already said to the Republican leadership, you know, what I have just suggested to you now. And, I have not, uhthere are many Republican candidates around the country who have taken money from the Republican Party, I have not. Because I do not want to be beholden to them. [Yamhill Candidate Forum, 10/9/10] 2010: Received Money from National Republicans and Sessions In 2010, Cornilles received $2,500 from Rep. Sessions PAC, and $5,000 from the National Republican Congressional Committee. [Open Secrets, accessed 10/18/11; Open Secrets, accessed 10/18/11] Headline: Rob Cornilles cashes in on GOP donors in Oregon special election
In October 2011, Cornilles received Washington cash from key Republicans, totaling more than $16,000 through the middle of October. Cornilless donors include a slate of House GOP leaders, including Majority Leader Eric Cantor of Virginia, Armed Services Committee Chairman Buck McKeon of California and National Republican Congressional Committee Deputy Chairman Greg Walden of Oregon. He also received donations from several House GOP freshmen, including Illinois Rep. Bobby Schilling and Texas Rep. Bill Flores. [Politico, 10/31/11] Received Donation from Vern Buchanans Vote to Elect Republicans Now PAC; Buchanan Under Investigation In 2011, Rep. Vern Buchanans Vote to Elect Republicans Now PAC gave Cornilles a $250 donation.
[FEC, Cornilles for Congress, Filed 10/27/11]
Vern Buchanan is Under Investigation by the Department of Justice. Rep. Vern Buchanan is under investigation by the Justice Department for allegations that he asked a former business associate to reimburse employees who made donations to his campaign account, a local paper reported. The Bradenton Herald, which is based in the Republicans western Florida district, first reported that the DOJ was investigating whether Buchanan, a former car dealership owner, asked his associate, Sam Kazran, to encourage employees to make straw donations to the lawmaker.
[Politico, 10/18/11]
Vern Buchanan Under Investigation By the Office of Congressional Ethics. The House of Representatives Office of Congressional Ethics has launched a preliminary investigation into Rep. Vern Buchanan, R- SarasotaThe preliminary review of Buchanan, says a source, began in late September and is yet another response to allegations that the Longboat Key Republican pressured employees into donating to his congressional campaigns, then reimbursed them with funds from one of his car dealerships. [Florida Independent, 10/25/11] Vern Buchanan Named One of the Most Corrupt Members of Congress. In the seventh edition of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washingtons listing of the most corrupt members of Congress, two Florida congressmen managed to earn a spot on the list. Those two Florida representatives would be Miami-based Rep. David Rivera and Rep. Vern Buchanan of Sarasota -- both members of the Republican PartyBuchanan, however, qualifies this year as a repeat offender in CREWs list. Witness tampering, obstruction of justice, and bribery are all in a days work for the ethically challenged Rep. Vern Buchanan, CREW says. The Sarasota congressman orchestrated an elaborate scheme that forced his employees to contribute to his campaign, ensuring they would be illegally reimbursed with corporate money. [Broward New Times,
9/20/11]
FEC says Rep. Buchanans Former Hyundai Firm Engaged in An Extensive and Ongoing Scheme. The Federal Election Commission is asking a federal court to impose a $67,900 fine on a company formerly co-owned by Rep. Vern Buchanan that it says engaged in an extensive and ongoing scheme to reimburse employees who made contributions to the Sarasota Republicans congressional campaign. In a motion for default filed Friday in U.S. District Court in Florida, the FEC says Hyundai of North Jacksonville which Buchanan once partially owned -violated federal campaign finance law by making contributions in excess of the legal limit and by reimbursing employees who made the contributionsThe owner of the company said Tuesday he
has acknowledged the company reimbursed employees, but said it was a directive issued by Buchanan. [Bradenton Herald, 5/31/11] Wife Gave $250 to Mitt Romney There are no federal campaign contributions for Robert Cornilles. But his wife Allison gave Mitt Romney for President $250 in 2007. His wife was listed as an executive assistant at Game Face, Inc.
[fec.gov]
Raised Over $500,000 in Two Months Since Entering Special Election in 2011 In 2011, Cornilles raised over $500,000 in the two months since he entered the race to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Democrat David Wu. [Blog, Oregonian, 10/3/11] Received $2,500 From Koch Industries PAC In 2010, Cornilles received a $2,500 donation from the Koch Industries political action committee. [CQ
Moneyline, accessed 9/15/11]
Received Help from FreedomWorks In October 2010, FreedomWorks spent almost $1,400 on door hangers and bumper stickers to support Cornilles, according to independent expenditure filings with the FEC. [fec.gov]
Choice Issues
Cornilles is Pro-Life. Cornilles said, Im pro-life. [Americans for Prosperity Meeting, 1/19/10] Said He was Pro-Life. When asked where he stood on the issue of abortion he said, Well I always respect life and my wife and I have shared this opinion ever since we were old enough to be parents. One thing I do not support is I do not support the federal funding of abortionIm not a supporter of late term abortionand I think Im with the American people on this. [KGW.com, 10:26, 9/4/10] Cornilles Said He Wouldnt Have Gotten the Endorsement of Oregon Right to Life Unless He was Pro-Life. Cornilles said, I can assure you, you would not have the endorsement of the Oregon Right to Life unless you were pro-life. I am the only candidate on the stage who has indicated hes pro-life, in that he got the endorsement of the Oregon Right to Life. So its very clear where I stand. If you have any questions I would encourage you to call Oregon Right to Life. [Democracy in Action Forum, 4/20/11]
Cornilles also said that Democrats should have had the courage to go public with concerns about David Wu before the 2010 election. Former Congressman Wu defeated Cornilles 55 percent to 44 percent in 2010. [Real Clear Politics, 11/9/11] Said Bonamici Should Have Questioned Wu, Rather Than Contributing to Him In 2011, Cornilles attacked Bonamici for her ties to Wu, saying she should have questioned Wus lack of political clout instead of contributing to his last reelection campaign. Sen. Bonamici is part of the very political establishment that enabled David Wu and covered up his offensive behavior, Cornilles said. [The Oregonian, 11/9/11] Attacked Bonamici for Raising Taxes and Fees More than Fifty Times Over Five Years In 2011, Cornilles attacked Bonamici for raising taxes and fees more than fifty times over five years. Now my opponent, Senator Bonamici raised taxes and fees on Oregonians more than fifty times in just five years while a member of the Oregon legislature and shes not done. Now when Oregonians are struggling to create or find jobs, she wants to raise taxes in a broken system without reforming it. [Cornilles Campaign Kick-Off, 11/9/11] Attacked Bonamici for Voting with the Majority of her Party 98 Percent of the Time In 2011, Cornilles attacked Bonamici for voting with the majority of her party 98 percent of the time. Senator Bonamici claims shes bipartisan because she helped redraw district boundaries for elections. How fitting, how fitting that a politician, while preparing to run for Congress herself, would think its an accomplishment to create safe legislative districts for her political friends. And while in Salem, Senator Bonamici, she voted with the majority of her party 98 percent of the time, 98 percent. She has a more partisan voting record than David Wu. Ladies and gentlemen we dont need more of the same. Voting 98 percent of the time with your party is not leadership, its button pushing. [Cornilles Campaign Kick-Off,
11/9/11]
Consumer Issues
Claimed to Believe the Government Should Set Food and Consumer Safety Standards In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that the federal government should enact and enforce minimum standards to protect consumers from unsafe products and guarantee food safety, as opposed to allowing manufacturers to self-police. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011]
In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles deemed the federal governments bailout of the automotive industry a waste of money, since Ford Motors managed to improve sales and products without using taxpayer money. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Said Washington Helped Well-Connected on Wall Street With crony capitalism benefitting the career politicians and the well-connected on Wall Street, it is absolutely critical that we send new leaders to Washington. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Said Stimulus Signs That Said Putting Oregon Back to Work Were Offensive Cornilles said the stimulus signs that said putting Oregon back to work were offensive to him. Have you seen on our highways and byways those signs that say putting Oregon back to work? Those signs are offensive to me. The government doesnt put people back to work, its your taxpayer money that puts people back to work. People create jobs. Dont thank the government, thank yourselves. [Portland Tea Party
speech, Part 3, 00:05, 9/7/11]
Said He wanted to Affect Change Inside Oregon Boardrooms In 2011, Cornilles gave a speech at the Dorchester Founders event and said he wanted to affect positive change inside Oregon boardrooms. Friends, I would rather affect positive change inside Oregon boardrooms than protest circumstances on our sidewalks. If my comments here sound sacrilegious, consider that as Republicans, we know to separate religion from government. Because government is NOT our religion. Religion is our religion. Politics is politics. Im grateful our Founders had the wisdom to see the difference. [The Dorchester Founders Speech by Rob Cornilles, Accessed 4/4/11] Would Have Voted Against Economic Stimulus Bill In 2010, Cornilles said he would have voted against $800 billion economic stimulus. [Daily Astorian, 1/21/10]
Education Issues
Said No Child Left Behind Act was Flawed In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles criticized No Child Left Behind as faulty, and said his districts education system would be one of his main concerns in office. Cornilles said, Our education system must be a priority. I will resist more top-down solutions like the well-intentioned but flawed No Child Left Behind Act, and instead focus on local control. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
Suggested Fundraising to Fund Music and Arts Programs When asked how he planned to fund music and arts programs Cornilles suggested fundraising. One of the boards that I serve on in our state is the Special Olympics of Oregon, and I helpraise money for those children. Last week I was at a dinner in downtown Portland, where we raised tens of thousands of
dollars for these children and adults who should benefit from that program. And thats an example of what we can do for schools, and what we do for schools. He went on to say Heres the trick, in order for private citizens to be able to give money to their favorite charity, whether it be to school programs, Special Olympics or anything else, they have to have a job, they have to be prosperous. They cant be spending 40% of their income going to taxes, but rather we need to let them keep as much of their money as possible to do good things. To support their favorite causes How do you do that? You lower taxes, you make sure people have stable jobs, that grows the economy and that means important services such as you described. [West View High School Forum, Part 1, 10:55,
10/17/11]
Criticized Bill Then Said It Funded Teachers At the Warrenton town hall He went back last week, flew back at the call of Mrs. Pelosi, like all members of the Congress, took time away from their district work session, which this is called in August when theyre supposed to be here working with you, instead Im here holding the town hall. I dont see Mr. Wu holding any town halls and they flew back to Washington at your expense and what did they do? They passed another bailout bill, $26 billion. Swiped the credit card once againthat was for teachers.
[Warrenton town hall, 41:11, 8/24/10]
Said No Child Left Behind and Race to the Top Should Be Abolished In 2011, Cornilles and Avakian agreed the George W. Bush-era No Child Left Behind law and the Obama administrations Race to the Top should be abolished. They both favored giving local school districts much more freedom in how they spend school money. Cornilles said, nobody in Washington, D.C. knows better than we do locally how to educate our kids... I have trusted the teachers in the classrooms to best decide how to use the resources and methods to make sure our kids are prepared to compete globally. [Blog, Oregonian, 9/20/11] Flip-Flopped on No Child Left Behind Reauthorization At a candidate forum in 2010, Cornilles said that he supported reauthorizing No Child Left Behind.
[Dorchester candidate forum, 3/06/10]
In 2011, Cornilles said at a Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce candidate forum that he supported abolishing both the No Child Left Behind law and the Obama administrations Race to the Top program.
[Oregonian, 9/20/11]
Energy Issues
Supported Construction of Keystone XL Pipeline In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles voiced his support for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, as part of a strategy to make us less dependent on Mideast petroleum products. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011]
Claimed He Supported Reduction of Oil, Natural Gas and Ethanol Subsidies In 2011, it was reported in a candidate questionnaire that Cornilles called for the elimination or largescale reduction on federal tax subsidies for oil and natural gas exploration in the United States and ethanol production. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Was in Favor of LNG In 2011, Cornilles said he was in favor of LNG. Cornilles was asked would you have supported or opposed the LNG facility or the pipeline that transported that gas through Oregon? He said I was in favor of LNG last year and I remain in favor of it. However I dont think the federal government should be determining citing of LNG lines, I think thats a local issue. He went on to say the reason I was in favor of it was because I believed that compromise could be met between industry and private landowners, and if we always avoid difficult, prickly, controversial issues and citing when were talking about building renewables in our state, were never going to get anything done. [Westside Economic Alliance Candidate Forum, part 1, 10/27/11] Said District Could Hold Liquid Natural Gas Facility When asked about liquid natural gas Cornilles said You asked the question and you said that our district could host one of these facilities, and obviously its a hypothetical situation right now. There is discussion of a natural gas line south of our district, through Cruise Bay, I think its a local decision. And I dont think the federal government should be dictating what local jurisdictions decide, let the communities decide this. [League of Women Voters, 10/20/11] Claimed He Opposed Drilling Off Shore of Oregon Cornilles claimed he opposed drilling off the shore of Oregon. I would also say one area of our district that needs to be protected is our shores. Theres been some discussion about drilling off the shore of Oregon, I think thats crazy. Theres been no proven evidence that that would lead to any positive outcomes. But Ill tell you what I do want to focus on, I want to focus on those energy sources that are already here with in the district and the state that were not maximizing, yet we have the technology and the know how to do it. Whether its wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, and yes even natural gas. We have the people here and the companies here that could actually make us more energy independent not just locally but national as well if they had a champion in Congress, fighting for those companies and those industries. [League of Women Voters, 10/20/11] Received Contributions from Sause Brothers Ocean Towing Responsible For 1988 Oil Spill Off The Washington Coast In 2011, Cornilles received at least $6,000 from people associated with Sause Brothers Ocean Towing. An Oregon tugboat company that already has agreed to pay $3.5 million in damages could be forced to pay even more for a 1988 oil spill off the Washington coast. A federal judge in Portland this week ruled against Sause Brothers Ocean Towing of Coos Bay in its bid to limit its liability for the spill off Grays Harbor, Wash. The spill allowed 231,000 gallons of heavy-grade oil to flow into the Pacific Ocean near
Ocean Shores after the barge Nestucca was rammed by its own tug after a tow cable snapped More than 100 claims for damages have been filed against Sause Brothers and BP North American Petroleum. [The
Oregonian, 1/26/91; FEC, Cornilles for Congress, Filed 10/27/11]
Received Contributions from Flores who had Interest in Company that Did Offshore Drilling In 2011, Cornilles received $500 from Bill Flores for Congress. On March 16, 2011 Flores introduced the Expedited Offshore Permitting Act of 2011. In March, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. The legislation amended the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to establish more stringent deadlines and requirements for drilling permits in the Gulf of Mexico. [HR 1115,
3/16/11; Cleburne Times-Review, 3/20/11; Cornilles for Congress, Filed 10/27/11]
Environmental Issues
Wasnt Ready to Say Whether Climate Change Existed In 2012, on climate change Cornilles said he wasnt ready to say one way or the other whether it existed. He said not all scientists agreed on the cause. Im running for Congress, he said, not scientist.
[Oregonian, 1/10/12]
Headline: Rob Cornilles Endorsed by Major Pesticide Lobby Group In 2012, the Willamette Weekly reported that Cornilles accepted endorsement of group that lobbies on behalf of the pesticide and farm chemicals industry. Despite the fact that organic farming has become a major industry in Cornilles district Cornilles touted the endorsement of Oregonians for Food and Shelter that lobbies on behalf of the pesticide and farm chemicals industry, a fact Cornilles did not mention in his Dec. 20 press release on the endorsement. Cornilles refused to comment on questions about the endorsement. [Willamette Week, 1/6/12] Supported Sending Oregonians Back in to Responsibly Manage Forests In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles advocated for the preservation of the environment, while also sending Oregonians back in to responsibly manage our forests. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
Would Have Voted Against the Cap and Trade Bill In 2010, Cornilles said he would have voted against the cap and trade bill. [Daily Astorian, 1/21/10] Said There Was No Science that People Affect Climate Change At a May 2010 forum at the Executive Club in Portland, Cornilles said there was no science that could prove climate change was advanced by humans. [Executive Club forum video, 5/05/10] Said He was Working with Forestry Industry and Trusted Them as Stewards of Forest
In a 2011 radio interview, Cornilles said he was working with the forestry industry and seeing how they managed the forest. Cornilles said, Im heading out into the forest. Im taking a tour with the forest industry and I want to see exactly what they do and how they do it, and what the federal government is doing to prevent them from doing their skills and their jobs well and see how I can be more helpful to this industryI have totally trust in their ability to be stewards of the forest. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 2,
Summary, 7:40, Posted 9/23/11]
Said Congress Should Have Required Limited Spending on Wall Street Bonuses In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that the federal government should file suit to claw back the $100 billion + bonus and profit money paid by Wall Street and banks to themselves with taxpayer money. The Wall St. banks should not have spent taxpayer money in this way, but Congress also should not have passed the bill without constraining such spending of taxpayer money on bonuses in the first place, said Cornilles. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Said Government Should Investigate and Prosecute Crimes Committed By Financial Institutions In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said the federal government should investigate and take legal action against potential crimes committed by financial institutions. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
Said Dodd-Frank Slowed Down Loans In 2011, Cornilles blamed the Dodd-Frank bill for slowing down loans. Then Congress, like they often do, says well we can fix this! So they began to pass some additional regulations on lending institutions so that they couldnt just quickly give out loans and lines of credit etcetera. One of those regulations is something thats called the Dodd-Frank bill, it was passed more than a year ago. He went on to say, The Dodd-Frank bill was essentially a way of, well first of all I should tell you, it was 2,000 pages thick. A law 2,000 pages thick. I dont even know if you have any manuals that are nearly
that thick on how to construct one of your tugs. 2000 pages of law, now thats just the law, and it was for the financial services industry that youre describing, banks etc. [Lektro, 22:11, 10/27/11] Did Not Know What Glass-Steagall Act Was In 2011, Cornilles said he was not familiar with the 1930s-era Glass-Steagall Act, blamed for deepening the 2008-2009 financial crisis. Oregon Public Broadcasting reported Given the time hes spent talking about banks on the campaign trail, some observers were surprised to hear his response to a question on reviving the 1930s-era Glass-Steagall Act, which prohibited commercial banks from participating in investment business. Its repeal has been blamed in some quarters for deepening the 2008-2009 financial crisis. Eric Schmidt, who moderated a candidates forum in Beaverton on Monday asked the candidates about that, The questions pretty simply, Do you support re-enacting Glass-Steagall. The Glass Steagall Act. Im not familiar with that. Cornilles replied. [Oregon Public Broadcasting, 10/26/11] Declined to be Specific on Retooling Dodd-Frank Wall Street Bill-Did Not Favor Repeal In 2011, Cornilles said he favored retooling -- although not repealing -- the Dodd-Frank Wall Street regulation bill, but declined to be specific. Cornilles says its stopping lenders from getting loans to businesses. He declined to be specific about aspects hed revise. He did say hes not in favor of repealing it. [Oregon Public Broadcasting, 10/26/11] Supported Occupy Wall Street Protests At a 2011 forum, Cornilles sided with Democrats in supporting the crowds at Occupy Wall Street and Occupy Portland gatherings. Cornilles claimed he was upset with what Wall Street bankers got away with and said, If thats what theyre protestingI join them. [Forest Grove News-Times 10/12/11] Criticized Dodd-Frank Bill In a 2011 radio interview, Cornilles criticized the Dodd-Frank bill for placing regulations on the banking industry. Yeah, I think this is an example ofthis is the result of a Congress that claims to have good intentions, but they over-reached. And this happens too often, the pendulum swings way too far to one side when a crisis happens in our country. We need frankly more reasoned thought and what you saw afterthis whole financial crisis weve have been going through these three or four years was one piece of legislation called the Dodd-Frank bill. The Dodd-Frank bill is a new financial regulations placed on banks and other lending institutions and financial advisors ect. Ive spoken to many of them, especially in the small business community and they say the Dodd-Frank bill is untenable for us. We cant comply with everything. Its too expensive, were going to have to shut down. Or its becoming so difficult for us to lend because of the restrictions on lending through the Dodd-Frank bill that now my local small businesses are suffering. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 2, 12:50, Posted 9/23/11] Expressed Concern for Banking Community In a 2011 radio interview, Cornilles expressed concern about the banking industry. He said, You know I worry about the community banksI really worry about their ability to survive this crisis
because of the new stack of regulations, theyre still trying to figure out andas Ive said earlier, if you dont know what regulation means the best and safest thing to do unfortunately is to go sit on the sidelines and wait till the rule book is determined and that is not good for this economy. So weve been over-regulated and that needs to be...shrunk responsible I might add if were going to see this economy grow again. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 2, 12:50, Posted 9/23/11] Spoke Out Against Dodd-Frank At a 2010 forum Cornilles said This is the newest decision made back in Congress, its called the DoddFrank bill or commonly referred to as Wall-Street reform passedabout a month ago. Now it sounds like a good idea to reform Wall Street, Im for that. Theres a lot of things going on in Wall Streetwe need to scrutinize more carefully I should say. But theres a lot of stuff in this bill that those who wrote it and voted on it dont understand. Im talking to banks, those that we rely on right now to lend money to small businesses so we can grow jobsas recently as just a few days ago, I talked to them about this piece of legislation. I said what does it mean to you, your bank, your ability to lend money. And they said we dont know yet, thats the problem with it. [Warrenton Town Hall, 15:23, 8/24/10] Would Have Voted Against Bank Bailout Bill In 2010, Cornilles said he would have voted against bank bailout bill. [Daily Astorian, 1/21/10]
Foreign Policy Issues Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea Game Face Inc. Tax Lien
Failed To Make Federal Payroll Tax Payments For Three Quarters In A Row Resulting In $80,000 Tax Lien In 2011, the Willamette Week reported that Game Face failed to make federal payroll tax payments for three quarters in a row in 2007, resulting in an $83,000 federal tax lien. Cornilles said his bookkeeper failed to make tax the payments and his company set up a payment plan with the Internal Revenue Service and got the lien cleared three months later. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Business Had Problems Such as a federal tax lien In 2011, Cornilles downplayed the problems his business had, such as a federal tax lien in 2007 for failing to pay payroll taxes. Cornilles claimed an employee missed making the tax payments. But his business has also had its problems. Game Face was hit with a federal tax lien in 2007 after the company failed to pay payroll withholding taxes for several months. And the company was forced to retool its operations after three former trainees filed a claim charging that they deserved thousands of dollars in wages for what amounted to unpaid telemarketing work. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Had $83,284 Lien Filed Against Him For Failing To Pay Payroll Taxes For Nine Months In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles company had a brush with authorities came in 2007 when the Internal Revenue Service filed a tax lien of $83,284 against Game Face after it failed to pay
payroll taxes for nine months. Cornilles said a bookkeeper failed to pay the taxes and hid warning notices. And he said the company paid off the debt in three months once he learned of the lien, and he says he doesnt know why the now-departed bookkeeper failed to make the payments. Cornilles ex-employees expressed skepticism that Cornilles would miss unpaid taxes. They say he was a hands-on manager who always wanted to know the details of company operations. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Cornilles: There are a lot of cases out there where people have cheated the system In 2011, Cornilles met with the residents at St. Helens Avamere senior living facility and said There are a lot of cases out there where people have cheated the system. Cornilles shared his views on health care and claimed to saw a need to improve Medicare and Medicaid programs. [South County Spotlight, 11/2/11] Worked Out A Payment Schedule With the IRS After Being Hit With a Federal Tax Lien Cornilles worked out a payment schedule with the IRS after being hit with a federal tax lien. In 2011, Cornilles campaign manager wrote that Cornilles knows first-hand the struggles of running a small business. In 2007, his company briefly had a federal tax lien after an inexperienced bookkeeper failed to pay federal payroll taxes for three quarters. When Game Faces CFO told Rob of the circumstances, he contacted the IRS and worked out a payment schedule. The lien was satisfied in three months. [Rob Cornilles for Congress, 10/20/11] Internal Revenue Service Filed $83,000 Federal Tax Lien Against Company In 2011, it was reported that although Cornilles boasted that For 162 months weve met a payroll, he had an 83,000 federal tax lien against his company. Whats never been reported is Game Face later encountered a more serious problem. Although Cornilles boasts, For 162 months weve met a payroll, records show that in May 2007, the Internal Revenue Service filed an $83,000 federal tax lien against his company for failing to make 2006 tax withholdings. Cornilles blamed an inexperienced bookkeeper and said after discovering the problem, he paid off the lien in August 2007. [Editorial, Willamette Weekly, 10/19/11] Told Voters He Should Be Elected Based on Business Experience; Had $83,000 IRS Tax Lien on Business In 2011, Cornilles told voters he should be elected based on his business success and his experience balancing a budget, but four years ago the IRS put an $83,000 tax lien on his business. Cornilles claimed that he hired an inexperienced bookkeeper who didnt pay federal tax withholdings for three quarters. Public documents show the lien was released in August 2007, about three months after it was imposed. Cornilles campaign manager said the bookkeeper left the company by mutual agreement. [Associated Press,
10/19/11]
Headline: Candidates business had tax lien In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles business hand an $83,000 IRS tax lien. Republican congressional candidate Rob Cornilles has been telling voters he should be elected based on his business acumen and his
experience balancing a budget, but four years ago the IRS briefly put an $83,000 tax lien on his business.
[Associated Press, 10/19/11]
Headline: Business owned by Republican congressional candidate Rob Cornilles had federal tax lien In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles failed to pay federal payroll taxes for nine months and had an $83,284 lien filed against his business. Cornilless business Game Face Marketing had a federal tax lien in 2007. Cornilless Tualatin company, which markets sports tickets, owed $83,284 in federal taxes, according to the IRS lien, which was filed in Washington County. Records show it was paid off three months later. Cornilles said his bookkeeper was inexperienced and failed to pay federal payroll taxes for nine months. The Oregonian reported, Cornilles has emphasized his business credentials as a reason he should be elected. Failure to pay federal taxes doesnt help that image. [Oregonian, 10/19/11]
Willamette Week: Business that he Staked Campaign Credentials on was in Decline In 2012, the Willamette Week endorsed Bonamici and reported that his business that he staked his campaign on was in decline. Game Face is a company in decline, having reached its peak size of 22 employees nearly a decade ago. Today the company has no office and employs only four people other than Cornilles and his wife, Allison. If starting and running a struggling small business were all it took to serve in Congress, Oregon would have tens of thousands of candidates ready to go to Washington.
[Editorial, Willamette Week, 1/11/12]
Lost Endorsement of Daily Astorian Paper Found Aspects of Business Background Troubling In 2012, Cornilles did not get the endorsement of the Daily Astorian, in part because they found aspects of his business background troubling. The editorial read Reports in The Oregonian and Willamette Week have added perspective to Cornilles claims about his companys workforce. The firm once employed 20; now it employs four. The IRS levied a federal tax lien of $83,284 against Game Face for not paying payroll withholding taxes for nine months Aspects of Cornilles business background are troubling. Not paying federal payroll taxes for nine months is a blinking red light. [Editorial, Daily Astorian, 1/10/12] Said He Did Executive Search Work That Gave Him Insight into How Jobs Were Created In 2011, Cornilles said he would be a job creator because he visited different workplaces and that his firm has done training and executive search work that gives him a good insight into how jobs are created. He
also says hes presented several ideas for simplifying the tax code and reducing the budget deficit that he says will help create jobs. [Oregonian, 12/8/11] Had Four Full-Time and Two Part-Time Employees Working Out of Their Homes In 2011 the Oregonian reported that Cornilles owned a sports marketing company that had four full-time and two part-time employees working out of their own homes. [Oregonian, 12/8/11] Admitted that He Had Employees Working from Home Shuttered Office In 2012, Cornilles said So weve always been very methodic about when we hire, weve always tried to do it very responsibly and sometimes weve hired very quickly and sometimes weve had to recognize that because of circumstances you have to make changes in the way a business operates. About 3 years ago we decided to move out of an office space in Tualatin that was about 6,800 square feet and change the way that we deliver services to our clients and put our employees in home base offices all around the region here. Thats how our business has been operating for the last 3 years. [ELGL Meeting, 4:05, 1/5/12] Claimed He Taught Best Business Practices In 2012, Cornilles said Gameface doesnt just service clientsprimarily our business is the sports worldwe give them best business practices so that they can run a very successful enterprise, take care of their fans so they have a great reputation. [ELGL Meeting, 11:00, 1/5/12] Customer Relations Specialist for Sports, Manufacturers and Retailers In 2011, Cornilles was described as a customer relations specialist for various professional sports franchises, including manufacturers, retailers and professional services. He touted his business and job creation credentials. [News Yamhill County, 12/13/11] Said He Created 60 Jobs, But Never Had More than 20 Employees In 2011, it was reported that Cornilless said he created 60 jobs, but he never had more than 22 employees at any given time and had only four full-time employees and two part-timers. [The Fix,
Washington Post, 12/14/11]
Came Under Scrutiny for Lien and Failing to Pay Employees for Telemarketing Work In 2011, it was reported that Cornilless business came under scrutiny over a 2007 tax lien for unpaid taxes and employee claims that they werent paid for telemarketing work. [The Fix, Washington Post, 12/14/11] Headline: Rob Cornilles pursuit of tax breaks and his shrinking company challenge his campaign image as a Job Creator In 2011, the Willamette Week reported that Cornilles claim that he was one of the nations top sports marketing firms puzzled some sports veterans. I dont know what that means, says Steve Patterson, former Blazers president and now chief operating officer for Arizona State Universitys athletic department. He went on to say I dont even know how you evaluate that claim. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11]
Said He Understood What it Took to Create Jobs Because of Training Experience In 2011, Cornilles said he understood what it took to create jobs because of his experience training people. There are not enough people in Washington who have created jobs, said Cornilles, who adds that he understands what it takes to expand employment because of his experience helping place and train people in the front offices of sports teams. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Claimed His Business Recruited Personnel for Sports Teams, Advised and Trained on Ticket Sales In 2011, Cornilles touted that his business trained people to become sports franchise employees, recruited front-office personnel for sports teams, and advised and trained teams on how to sell more tickets.
[Willamette Week, 12/14/11]
News Reports Shrunk Business Claims Down To Size Due To His Lack Of Employees, Problems With Regulators And Tax Lien In 2011, the Willamette Week reported news reports shrunk his business claims down to size due to his lack of employees, problems with regulators and tax lien. Rob Cornilles hasnt seen his campaign message that hes a job creator go quite like hed hoped. Cornilles is the Republican nominee in the Jan. 31 special election to replace former U.S. Rep. David Wu. Hes running by talking up his credentials on the No. 1 issue voters want to hear about: creating Oregon jobs. His proof has been the success of his sports marketing company, Game Face, which his campaign claims is one of the most influential consulting and executive training firms in the sports industryworldwide. But news reports have since shrunk those claims down to size, citing problems with regulators, tax liens and the fact his company is a ghost of its former self. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Tried To Register Business At A PO Box Illegally - Then Put Down A Physical Address That His Company Vacated In 2008 In 2011, Cornilles tried to register his business at a PO Box, which was illegal, so he put down a physical address that his company vacated in 2008. Cornilles tried to fix his business registration, which showed his company to be inactive. He tried to re-register Game Face using a post-office box for the companys address and was required by law to provide a physical location Cornilles listed 19125 SW 125th Court, Tualatin, as Game Faces address. Cornilles, however, vacated a 6,800-square-foot office at that location in 2008 to save money. I can see how that would be confusing to people, he said, Theres nothing fishy about it. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Reportedly Allowed Federal Trademark to Lapse No Longer Owned Brand The Willamette Week reported in 2010, records showed Cornilles allowed the federal trademark on the name Game Face to lapse, which meant he no longer owned the right to the brand hed spent 15 years building. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Note: research
Said His Business Declined Due to Recession and Campaigning for Congress In 2011, Cornilles told the Willamette Week that his business had declined in recent years due to the recession and his campaigning for Congress. Cornilles said Game Face was highly dependent on his presence and that hes taken a pay cut. I sacrificed income for the benefit of my employees, he said.
[Willamette Week, 12/14/11]
Couldnt substantiate claim that he had been in more front offices than any person in sports In 2011, the Willamette Week reported that Cornilles couldnt substantiate his claim that he had been in more front offices than any person in sports. Admittedly, youd have to take my word for it, Cornilles said. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Previously Said He Trained 25,000 Executives Then Changed Number to 30,000 Cornilles claimed he trained 30,000 executives but previously said on his LinkedIn page that the number was 25,000. The increase isnt because I did 5,000 in the past year, Cornilles says. Its because I did the numbers more carefully. Thats a massive number, says Syracuse University sports marketing Prof. Rick Burton, who coauthored an academic paper with Cornilles 15 years ago. Theres just no way to know whether its accurate or not. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Former Employees Said Cornilles Received Inappropriate Massages From A Female Assistant In 2011, former employees said Cornilles received inappropriate massages from a female assistant. They said they didnt always like the atmosphere around the company. A former employee said of the messages - I really thought it was inappropriate for a business setting, one former employee says. This never happened, Cornilles says. In our 16 years, there have been no complaints, formal or informal, regarding inappropriate behavior on my part. The woman who had worked as his assistant did not respond to requests for an interview. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Former Employee Said Cornilles was Triple-Dipping on Trainees In 2011, Joey Kink, a former employee who helped run the academy said Cornilles was triple-dipping and collecting fees from trainees, earning commissions from their sales and getting paid when they were placed in jobs. Joey Kink, a former employee who helped run the academy, said the program was designed so Game Face would pick up fees from trainees, earn commissions from ticket sales made by its trainees and then receive a placement fee from employers that hired a trainee. So we were triple-dipping at that one particular point in time, Kink says. Cornilles claimed the approach worked well for everyone.
[Oregonian, 12/12/11]
Forced Unpaid Trainees to Spend at Least 11 Weeks Trying to Sell Tickets Over the Phone In 2003, Cornilles ran afoul of the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries for forcing unpaid trainees to spend at least 11 weeks trying to sell tickets over the phone. The state questioned the legality of Game Faces business model after three former trainees filed complaints in 2003 requesting back wages.
Basically, we were paying to work, says Catherine Turallo, one of the complainants who paid $1,395 to attend the academy. They got a few tips on their selling techniques, but essentially worked the phones all day long, she said. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Cornilles Didnt Think He Did Anything Wrong Despite Paying Out Over $9,000 in Back Wages In 2011, Christine Hammond, administrator of the bureaus Wage and Hour Division, said state and federal law made it clear that companies could not use unpaid interns or trainees primarily to generate revenue. There was an awful lot of telemarketing going on and there was not a lot of training going on, says Hammond. Game Face agreed to pay just over $9,000 in back wages to the trio in a settlement. Cornilles said he didnt he did anything wrong. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] For Business Cornilles Would Talk for Eight Hours a Day In his business Cornilles would travel and train marketing and talked for eight hours a day. Tom Leip, who was the first employee Cornilles hired, says that to understand Cornilles, you need to hear him speak. He can stand in front of a group of people -- and it can be a relatively large group of people -- for eight hours a day for three consecutive days, and people want to hear more, says Leip, who now runs Edmontons professional soccer team. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Let Business Registration Lapse for More Than a Year In December 2011, Cornilles let his business registration with the state lapse for more than a year. He claimed the lack of registration was a simple paperwork error and that Game Face remained a viable company. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Business was Down to Four Full-Time Employee No Office in Oregon Employees Worked from Home In December 2011, Cornilles acknowledged that his business was down to four full-time employees and two part-timers. And his company no longer had an office in Oregon employees now work out of their homes. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Company Never Had More Than 20 to 22 people Employed at any one time Despite 60 Jobs Claim In 2011, Cornilles repeatedly said Game Face created 60 jobs in Oregon, yet his company never had had more than 20 to 22 people at any one time. With a marketers flair, Cornilles repeatedly talks about how Game Face has created 60 jobs in Oregon. That, however, refers to the number of people who have worked at the company at one point or another. Game Face has never had more than 20 to 22 people at any one time. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Claimed His Training Program Placed Hundreds into Jobs in Sports Industry Cornilles claimed that his training program placed hundreds of beginners in the highly competitive sports industry. [Oregonian, 12/12/11]
Used Sports Marketing Career to Market Self Described as Knowing Right Thing to Say In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles used his career in sports marketing to market himself. His acquaintances said with his experience training sports executives he developed a stage presence. Tualatin businessman Rob Cornilles is putting his unusual career in sports marketing to a new purpose: selling himself to voters as the Republican candidate in Oregons 1st Congressional District. Hes charismatic, hes a good talker and always knows the right thing to say, says Josh Hunt, who once worked for Cornilles. It fits well with his current endeavors. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Claimed He Launched 500 Careers In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles called himself a job creator, saying, I have spent my professional life employing people (60 here in Oregon) and launching the careers of 500 others nationwide by giving them skills they needed to thrive. I launch careers. [Oregon Independent Party,
2011]
Said Congress Needed People Who Know How to Write a Budget, Like Him In 2011, it was reported that in a radio interview, Cornilles said that, we need people who dont have agendas coming into office. And we need people whove actually met a payroll, like myself. Ive met a payroll for 193 straight months with almost 60 employees in my business. And I have simple, basic principles that I abide by, and one of those things is you know what I know how to write a budget and stick to it. We havent had a budget in Congress for three years. No wonder theres so much uncertainty out there, because if were looking to Washington for leadership, were not getting it. [Oregon Public Radio,
Think Out Loud, 3:26, 10/28/11]
Said He Directly Employed 60 Oregonians In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, Cornilles referred to himself as a career-builder, saying he directly employed 60 Oregonians and had been a driving force behind the placement of more than 500 individuals into full-time jobs around the industry- many of whom had given up hope that they could find work in their chosen field. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11] Said His Company Advised and Trained More Than 30,000 People In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, it was reported that Cornilles said that his small business excelled at helping organizations maximize their potential and bring measurable results to customers and that his business had advised and trained more than 30,000 people since their start. [The Oregonian,
accessed 10/31/11]
Said He Started One of the Most Influential Consulting and Executive Training Firms in the Sports Industry Worldwide In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, it was reported that Cornilles said the business he started was one of the most influential consulting and executive training firms in the sports industryworldwide. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11]
Cornilles: You have to Pay to Play In 2011, when talking about the MLS soccer stadium Cornilles said Our neighbors to the north are proving theres a demand for this product, especially in this region, he went on to say Which only emboldens the league to insist you have to pay to play. [Oregonian, 3/7/09] Claimed He Created 500 Jobs In 2011, Cornilles said And over the years Gameface has hired about 60 people, in sixteen years. We dont have nearly as big a shop as you do. Weve never been this big all at one time. But weve had 60 people go through our doors, and hopefully they all left better than we found them. And weve also over the years been able to create 500 jobs, 500 jobs, for people all over the country who wanted to work in our industry. [Lektro, press conference, 5:57, 10/27/11] Was a Former Sporting Goods Company Executive In 2011, Politico reported that Cornilles founded a sports marketing company. [Politico, 10/31/11] Said He Understood How to Maintain A Successful Business with Productive Employees In 2011, Cornilles said he understood how to maintain a successful business with productive employees. He wrote, Having spent my professional life creating jobs and training others in preparation for careers, I understand the rigors of sustaining a successful business with productive employees. While some like to talk about creating jobs, Ive actually done it. That is why job creation is the centerpiece of my campaign to represent Oregons 1st District in Congress. [Op-ed, Rob Cornilles, Daily Astorian, 10/26/11] Wanted to Reduce Regulations That Covered the Treatment of Employees in Workplace In 2011, Cornilles said he would reduce regulations that cover the treatment of employees in the workplace. It was reported that he said any policies that require legal counsel for compliance are probably overly cumbersome. The founder of the sports marketing firm GameFace says he wants to reduce regulations that cover the treatment of employees in the workplace. He did not cite specific policies, but said any policies that require legal counsel for compliance are probably overly cumbersome. [Oregon
Public Broadcasting, 10/26/11]
Defended Self Against Complains About Training Academy, Claimed Thanks To Him Two Of The Three Landed Jobs With Professional Teams In 2011, Cornilles campaign manager said in a fundraising letter that three people that attended Game Faces ran a training academy filed complaints with Oregons Bureau of Labor and Industry. In 2003, three people who paid to attend the academy complained to Oregons Bureau of Labor and Industry that they should have been paid for marketing calls made during training sessions. Cornilles campaign manager went on to write, Surprised by the complaint and admitting no wrongdoing, Rob opted to settle with the disgruntled customersYet, thanks to Robs training and
reputation in the industry, two of the three landed jobs with professional teams. [Rob Cornilles for Congress,
10/20/11]
Had Consulting and Executive Training Firm with 400 Customers in U.S. and Europe; Helped Launch Career of 500 In 2011, Cornilles campaign manager said in a fundraising letter that Cornilles company turned his idea into one of the most influential consulting and executive training firms in the sports industry with 400 customers in the U.S. and Europe. Over 16 years, Rob has employed 60 Oregonians at Game Face and helped launch the careers of 500 young men and women in the sports industry. [Rob Cornilles for Congress,
10/20/11]
Paid Off Game Face Trainees Who Alleged They Were Made to Work without Pay In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles paid about $9,000 to three Game Face trainees who alleged they worked hundreds of hours without pay. In 2003, as the Forest Grove News-Times first reported, the company settled Bureau of Labor and Industries complaints by three Game Face trainees who alleged theyd worked hundreds of hours without being paid. Cornilles denies wrongdoing, but he paid the three about $9,000 to avoid litigation. [Editorial, Willamette Weekly, 10/19/11] Ran as Job Creator Despite Only Employing Five People In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles ran as a job creator despite only employing five people. Cornilles is back, running as a job creator. Although his company, Game Face Marketing, which helps pro and college teams sell sports tickets, has just five employees, Cornilles claims hes trained or found jobs for hundreds since 1995. [Editorial, Willamette Weekly, 10/19/11] Said He Met a Payroll for the Last 193 Months In his opening statement at the Jewish Federation Candidate Forum Cornilles said, sixteen years ago we started a company out of our spare bedroom and that companies called Gamefaceand that companies been able, for the last 193 months to be able to meet a payroll, something that not all businesses in Oregon are able to do unfortunately. [Jewish Federation Candidate Forum, Part 1, 10:45, 10/10/11] Said His Small Business Experience Would Help Him Create Jobs In 2011, Cornilles said his small business experience would help him create jobs. We do that through simplifying the tax code, eliminating loopholes that only mega-corporations get to take advantage of and making sure that our regulations are reasonable and not over the top, he said. [KATU.com, 10/13/11] Cornilles said He Knew How to Meet a Payroll, Write a Budget and Stick to a Budget At a Warrenton Town Hall Cornilles said, I think were going to see a lot of people coming out of the private sector getting elected to Congress this year. People who, like me know how to meet a payroll, who know how to write a budget and stick to a budget. Who know how to make tough sometimes decisions every month, sometimes every day. [Warrenton Town Hall, 20:04. 8/24/10]
Cornilles Said He Had a Clean Conscience About His Finances and Business Practices At a Warrenton Town Hall Cornilles said, I have a clean conscience about my finances and my business practices. [Warrenton Town Hall, 47:50. 8/24/10] Cornilles Said He Knew How to Meet a Payroll and Stick to a Budget in Business Cornilles said And so for 162 months weve met a payroll and that means that we know how to stick to a budget. We know how to say no when it wouldnt be prudent. [KAST2, Radio Interview, 2:30, Posted 9/22/11] Said as a Business Owner He Knew How to Stick to a Budget In 2010, Cornilles said, As a business owner who knows how to stick to a budget. As a business owner who knows when you take risksyou may win, but you may also loseI have that mentality and background. [Dorchester Republican Debate, 8:36, 3/6/10] Said Knew How to Save and Do More with Less Cornilles said he could do more with less as a representative. I want to be your representative ladies and gentlemen because I know how to do more with less, I know how to be prudent, how to save. But when government runs into hard time what do they do? They tax, and if thats not enough they increase your fees, your regulations and ultimately they force you and your employers to either pack it in or move across the river or worse move overseas. [Portland Tea Party speech, Part 3, 1:27, 9/7/11] Game Face Marketing Had $83,000 Tax Lien Released On May 2, 2007, Game Face Marketing Inc, Tax ID 911858186 of Tualatin, Oregon had a federal IRS tax lien filed against it for $83,284. The lien was released on August 17, 2007. [Nexis Public Records] Cornilles is the President and Founder of Game Face, Inc. Cornilles is the President and Founder of Game Face, a company that helps sports franchises boost ticket sales and provide a more entertaining experience for fans. His clients have included the Boston Celtics, New York Mets and Denver Broncos. He has also done work locally for the Portland Trail Blazers and the Portland Beavers. [The Oregonian, 7/15/09] Attempted to Take Credit for 500 Jobs Cornilles claimed he advised 25,000 executives and hundreds of sports businesses. He claimed his innovation had been the driving force behind the successful placement of more than 500 individuals into a full-time job in the industry. [www.cornillesforcongress.com, accessed 10/13/09] Cornilles was President of Game Face Inc.
In 2011, the Portland Tribune reported that Rob Cornilles, the President of Game Face Inc., a sports marketing company, was running against Jim Greenfield, who managed commercial and residential real estate investments.
[Portland Tribune, 8/15/11]
Owned a Business that Cornilles Claimed had 60 Employees and Placed 500 People in Jobs In 2011, Cornilles owned a business with his wife that had 60 employees and had placed at least 500 people in jobs. Their company was Game Face, advising sports teams on making themselves a sustainable enterprise. Weve largely funded our business out of our back pocket, out of a savings account, and we know some of the fundamental principles that I think were lacking in Congress today. We know how to spend responsibly, we know how to hire, we know what it takes to hire, and we also know what it takes to sit on the sidelines when it comes to hiring and what goes through your mind when you try to think if hiring would be the wise thing to do right now, he said. [Daily Astorian, 9/23/11] Claimed That He Employed 60 People and Helped 500 People Get Jobs In 2011, Cornilles claimed that he employed 60 people and helped 500 people get jobs in Oregon. Cornilles said, Quite frankly, I am a career builder. Not only have I employed nearly 60 people, but our small business has actually helped create more than 500 careers for people around the industry and around the country. And thats experience that we need today, we dont need another proven career politician we need a proven career builder. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 1, 10:27, Posted 9/23/11] Said He Had 60 Employees and Helped 500 People Get Jobs In 2011, Cornilles said he had had 60 employees over the life of his company and had helped 500 people get jobs across the country. Thats true just to be clear our 60 employees are all not right now, over the years weve had 60 people go through our game facein addition to hiring for myself, we also encourage, persuade our clients, which are primarily sports franchises and intercollegiate sports programs around the country, we persuade them to hire as well. And we have been able to train people who wanted to work in this industrybut didnt have the requisite skills to do it. Even after a college education, we train them to do it and we introduce them to our clients and they get jobs, they get careers. Weve been able to do that for more than 500 people across the country. [KAST2, Radio Interview, 3:52, Posted 9/22/11] Sued by, Settled Case with Former Trainees Alleging Unpaid Work In 2003, Cornilles was sued by three participants of his Executive Academy, a training program for recent college grads meant to connect them to jobs in the sports marketing industry. Documents filed with the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries showed that Game Face paid $9,052.07 to three former participants after they made claims that Cornilles academy was an unpaid call center with a $1,395 entry fee. What they dont tell you is when you show up you go through one week of classwork and you learn the first day that youre a salesman for him, said one former participant. Youre a cold-call telemarketer. The same participant said that employees made up to 120 calls a day, trying to sell season ticket packages for the various sports teams that had hired Cornilles.
Hed go out and contract with these people and say Ill come in and train your ticket salespeople. Then he gets us to do it for free. The agreement, in which the former employees were paid for missing compensation, specifically stated that Game Face was not admitting to any wrongdoing. [Forest Grove News-Times, 10/20/10] Worked with Dallas Stars on Training and Helping Place New Workers In 2008, Game Face Inc, co-hosted a sales training seminar for college students and graduates in the Dallas area. The trainings help people to find jobs in the growing arena of sports sales and management. The fact of the matter is we have more jobs that we have to fill for teams than we have qualified candidates for, Cornilles said. The industry is definitely growing because there are more teams than ever before. [Star Telegram, 4/07/08] Worked with St. Louis Cardinals on Downsizing Stadium Strategy In 2006, Cornilles worked with the St. Louis Cardinals on their new stadium which contained fewer seats and therefore required a new marketing strategy for the increased prices on the new seats. [Associated Press
State & Local Wire, 4/09/06]
Has Worked with More than Half the Teams in NHL In 2005, following the NHL and players agreement, Cornilles said the National Hockey League should look at the coming season as a total re-launch. He had worked with more than half the leagues teams.
[Baltimore Sun, 7/14/05]
Helped Turn Around L.A. Clippers Sales Cornilles helped to turn around the L.A. Clippers ticket sales when he came on as a salesperson for the team that had been labeled by Sports Illustrated as the worst. The consulting job was the start of Cornilles company Game Face Inc. [Business Journal, 9/21/01]
Bulls Hired Game Face Marketing in 1999 In 1999, The Bulls hired Game Face Marketing to help with their ticket sales, with Cornilles describing their services as helping teams focus on things they can provide to customers that are teamproof.
[Chicago Tribune, 5/05/99]
Consulted in Australia In 1998, Cornilles was brought in to help the National Baseball League by conducting a conference on ticket sales in Melbourne, Australia. [Canberra Times, 2/17/98] BBB Processed One Complaint about Game Face Inc in Previous 36 Months The Better Business Bureau processed a complaint about Game Face Inc in the past 36 months. It related to guarantee or warranty issues and was administratively closed. Being administratively closed is defined as BBB determined that despite the companys reasonable effort to address complaint issues, the consumer remained dissatisfied. The company does have a BBB rating of A, but is not an accredited business. [BBB.Org, accessed 10/13/09] NOTE: The Better Business Organization website no longer contains information about this complaint.
I think everyone should be able to run their business the way they want to run it, and if someone chooses not to provide that benefit, they may pay the consequences. That being people choose not to work for them, said Cornilles. [Oregon Public Radio, Think Out Loud, 7:14, 10/28/11] Supported Extended Coverage for Young Adults in the Affordable Care Act In 2011, it was reported that in a radio interview, when asked if he supported any of the provisions in health care reform, Cornilles stated that he was in favor of the extension of coverage of care for young adults, that he support the coverage of kids, especially in this economy, who cannot afford healthcare on their own so they stay on their parents plan. Cornilles went on to say, And I have two boys myself in college, and believe me, Im really concerned about them when they get out of college as far as what kind of opportunities theyre going to have to be able to get a real good job, a sustainable job, in fact a career and thus pay for their own coverage. [Oregon
Public Radio, Think Out Loud, 7:31, 10/28/11]
Said He Was Committed to Building Healthier Communities In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, it was reported that Cornilles said he was committed to building stronger and healthier communities here in Oregon. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11] Said Healthcare Reform Eliminated $500 Billion from Medicare In 2011, it was reported that in a radio interview, Cornilles said that the Affordable Care Act eliminated $500 billion from Medicare. But I will tell you one thing about the healthcare plan that is especially distressing is that it eliminated $500 billion from Medicare. And we have in Oregon nearly a quarter of a million seniors who take advantage of what they call Medicare advantage. Nearly half of those seniors are going to be adversely affected by that cut to Medicare, which was part of that signature healthcare plan last year. And that gravely concerns me, said Cornilles. [Oregon Public Radio, Think Out Loud, 7:59, 10/28/11] Would Have Voted Against Health Care Reform Bill In 2010, Cornilles said he would have voted against the health care reform bill. [Daily Astorian, 1/21/10] Thought Repealing Obamacare was Wasted Exercise Because President Would Never Approve In 2011, Cornilles was asked if he would repeal the health care reform law, he said he thought repeal was a waste of time because the President would never approve it. Last year when I was running for Congress I took a lot of heat from my party and the reason was I would not say that I would go back to Congress in 2011, should I have been elected and repeal Obamacare as they called it. And the reason why is because I felt that it would be a wasted exercise to try to repeal something the President would never approve of. And we can talk more about why I felt that the repeal would be a wasted exercise and what we should have been doing during these critical months to improve healthcare coverage and costs in our country. [After Deadline Radio Show, 13:38, Posted 9/30/11]
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Said Healthcare Costs Must be Lowered as Part of Medicare and Medicaid In a 2011 radio interview, Cornilles said he was in favor of lowering health care costs in Medicare and Medicaid. I think we can all agree theres tremendous waste and fraud in government today. Theres about a $60 billion fraud number just in Medicaid a year alone. Recently the Oregonian reported that $60 billion has been wasted in the two wars because of fraud and corruption. So we need to eliminate those who would allow this to continue. We need greater transparency. And people who are not beholden to certain special interest or lobbying groups who allow this to occur. He went on to say, As this relates to healthcare though I must add because thats part of Medicare and Medicaid, we have to reduce the cost of doing healthcare, providing health care in this country. A great example is what we have right here in Washington County. We have community health centers and I happen to be on the board of one called Virginia Garcia. [OregonLive.com, uploaded 9/26/11] Said There was Waste in Medicaid and Healthcare Costs Had to be Reduced In 2011, Cornilles highlighted waste in Medicare and Medicaid and his support for community health centers. I think we can all agree that theres tremendous waste and fraud in government today. Theres about a 60 billion dollar fraud number just in Medicaid alone every year. Recently the Oregonian reported that 60 billion dollars has been wasted in the two wars because of fraud and corruption so we need to eliminate those who would allow this to continue. We need greater transparency and people who are not beholden to special interests or lobbying groups that allow this to occur, Cornilles said. As it relates to healthcare though, I must say that is a part of Medicare and Medicaid. We have to reduce the cost of healthcare in this country. A great example is what we have right here in Washington County. We have community health centers and I happen to be on the board of one called Virginia Garciaand the typical patient there costs about $765 a year to give them preventative care, whereas if they went to the emergency room it would be $1,900 dollars per visit. [Washington County forum, 9/19/11; OregonLive.com,
Uploaded 9/26/11]
have congestion, we cant have old bridges etc. We need to make sure that we can compete domestically as well as internationally. Because we know whats happening you know in the Asian countries especially. Theyre building up infrastructure very quickly. They can move products and services rapidly; it becomes more efficient, more cost effective for them, we have to compete with that. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 2, 0:14, Posted 9/23/11]
In December 2011, Cornilles came out with his first ad of the general election in the Oregon special entitled jobs. Alison Cornilles: We have three great boys. We were worried about them being able to find jobs here in Oregon when they get older. Rob Cornilles: Yeah, people are struggling. They dont know if theyre going to be able to find work and thats why my number one priority in Congress will be to create jobs. Announcer: Rob Cornilles proven job creator. Rob Cornilles: As a small business owner who has created jobs. I know what it takes to move this economy, to give people a brighter future. Announcer: Read the Cornilles Commitment online. Rob Cornilles: We have to focus on bipartisan solutions that create real jobs. Im Rob Cornilles and I approve this message. [Cornilles for Congress, Jobs, accessed 12/8/11] Claimed He Believed Structural Opportunities Did Existed for Workers to Secure Middle-Income Jobs In 2011, Cornilles claimed to think it was a problem that low-income families faced hurdles in securing a middle-income job. He checked the box that said This is a problem, because the changes are structural and opportunities do not exist for workers to gain secure employment. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] As a Small Business Owner Said He Would Temper Uncertainty in Job Market In 2011, Cornilles said he should be elected to Congress because as a small business owner he would temper uncertainty in the job market. There are so many things small business owners like me need in order to take the risk and make the investment to hire people, Cornilles says. [Oregon Public Broadcasting,
10/26/11]
Short on Specifics on Job Creation In 2010, the Oregonian noted that Cornilles was short on specifics when it comes to saying precisely how he would apply his own job-creation skills to a large, diverse district. [Oregonian, 10/14/10] Criticized President Obamas September 2011 Job Speech In 2011, on the Bill Post Radio Show Cornilles criticized the Presidents September job speech. Cornilles said if he were the President giving a jobs speech he would have said, I understand that government intrusion of the free market system is not working. Weve tried it now for two and a half, three years almost and all we see is an unemployment rate that is historically high and back in Oregon it has been above the national average for 15 straight yearsthe rest of us watching that speech were asking where is the beef here. And so what I would have said is I know what is necessary to create employment opportunities for Oregonians back home. You need to first of all create an environment where businesses want to grow, where theyre motivated to expand and hire and not fearful of doing that. [The Bill Post Radio
Show, 2:15, 9/9/11]
Didnt Care About Political Persuasion in Getting People Back to Work In 2011, Cornilles said when it came to getting people back to work he didnt care about political persuasion. Ive visited all the communities in the district, he said. I didnt ask about what party they
belonged to. I focused on (listening to) the results they needed to be accomplished. [Beaverton Valley Times,
9/22/11]
Labor and Working Family Issues Other Social Issues Personal Issues
Household Income Came from Wifes Family Trust In 2011, Cornilles household income came from business investments in a family trust controlled by his wifes family. His wife, Allison, controls 17 percent of the trust. His disclosure forms showed that he made $48,750 in 2011, $42,000 in 2010 and $85,750 in 2009. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Disclosure Reports Indicated Familys Real Wealth Came From His Wife He Wouldnt Say How Trust Affected His Familys Finances In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles disclosure reports indicated that that his familys real wealth came from his wife he wouldnt say how the trust affected his familys finances. Disclosure reports showed Cornilles took $42,000 in salary from the firm in 2010 and $48,750 in the first 7 1/2 months of this year, before he started his latest campaign. In comparison, he reported a salary of $87,200 in 2008. His wife had a 17 percent share in a family trust that owns stocks and several business properties in Oregon. Cornilles wouldnt explain how the trust affects his familys finances, saying, How my family benefits from income is my own business. He did say the assets and annual income listed in the report reflect the overall trust and not just her share. As a result, the report indicates she could have received income last year ranging between $81,000 and $714,000. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Main Source of Income Seemed to Be His Familys Wealth In December 2011, Cornilles main source of income seemed to be his familys wealth. He claimed he built the company without the aid of a trust owned by his wifes family that now appears to be the main source of his familys wealth, according to financial disclosure reports filed with the U.S. House. Her share of the assets is worth between $1.47 million and $6.5 million, but the trust also has liabilities that cloud the financial picture. [Oregonian, 12/12/11] Said He Was a Product of the First District In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, it was reported that Cornilles said he was a native Oregonian and a product of the First Congressional District, as he was born in Portland and then raised in Washington and Yamhill Counties. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11] Married High School Sweetheart and Had Three Sons
In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, it was reported that Cornilles married Allison Au, his high school sweetheart from Newberg High School, 25 years ago, and was the father of three sons with Au, ages 21, 18, and 15. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11] Affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, it was reported that Cornilles was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11] Headline: Rob Cornilles really, really wants you to think hes not a millionaire
In 2011, Cornilles said, [the] biggest laugh in the hall so far tonight was from my wife when you called me a millionaire. Yet, Cornilles disclosed assets of between $8.7 million and $39.0 million - and 2010 income of between $477,942 and $4.18 million. Cornilles also said of the tax cut proposed by President Obama, [T]he problem with this is that just doing a temporary tax cut extension for another twelve months is just going to create a bigger problem at the end of 2012. In 2010 Cornilles opposed ending the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy: Cornilles said not renewing the tax cuts would be demonizing certain classes of our society and discourage economic growth. [Columnist, Kari Chisholm, Blue Oregon, 10/25/11]
2010 Assets Totaled Between $8 Million and $49 Million In 2011, Cornilles said his company was profitable and in 2010 he disclosed personal assets of between $8 million and $49 millionprimarily his wifes property investments. [Editorial, Willamette Weekly, 10/19/11] Cornilles Said His Wife Laughed When Audience Member Called Him a Millionaire At a 2011 forum, Cornilles said, by the way, biggest laugh in the hall so far tonight was from my wife when you called me a millionaire. [Jewish Federation Candidate Forum, Part 2, 1:38, 10/10/11] Said Failing to Vote in Oregon Elections was A Mistake When asked why he didnt vote in 9 of the past 27 elections since 1998, despite the fact that the vote by mail system was easy, Cornilles said It was a mistake. These elections were things that I should have voted in, whether it was because of travel or other commitments, I made a mistake and I havent let it happen for a few years and I will not let it happen again. [News Channel 8, KGW.com, 9:10, 10/15/11] Graduated from Newberg High in Oregon In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles was an Oregon native and graduated from Newberg High. [Editorial,
Forest Grove News-Times, 10/19/11]
Failed to Vote a Third of the Time Because He Didnt Study Issues In 2011, Rob Cornilles said he didnt vote a third of the time because he didnt have enough time to study the issues. According to Politico, The Oregonian digs through congressional candidate Rob Cornilles voting record and finds a potential problem: Hes neglected to cast a ballot a third of the time since 1998.
Election records show that Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian, state Sen. Suzanne Bonamici of Beaverton and state Rep. Brad Witt of Clatskanie have not skipped an election. Cornilles, who ran against [Rep. David] Wu in 2010, missed statewide primary elections in 2000 and 2006 as well as local elections in 1999, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007 and in May of 2009. [Blog, Politico, 8/16/11] Reportedly Did Not Have Record of Tax Liens In light of the news that Avakian had delinquent taxes the Associated Press reported in 2011 that none of the other candidates in the race Democratic legislators Brad Witt and Suzanne Bonamici, and Republican businessman Rob Cornilles have records of tax liens. [Associated Press, 9/14/11] Owns Properties with Wife that Generate Between $465,000 to $4.15 million in Rent Annually Listed on his 2009 PFD are five properties that generate between $465,000 and $4.15 million in rent annually. They appear be a part of a Family Partnership in which his wife as a 17 percent interest. Cornilles lists the mortgages for three of the properties as part of his liabilities. [PFD 2009] Wife appears to be Independently Wealthy through Family partnership worth Millions According to Cornilles financial disclosure filed in 2009, his wife, Allison, appeared to be quite wealthy. She listed assets, mostly commercial property, worth at least $9 million. However, Cornilles told the Oregonian that that as a minority owner of the assets, she cant liquidate them, even if she wanted to. This campaign is going to be based solely on the contributions that we receive, Cornilles said. In addition, FEC regulations limited the ability of a spouse to personally transfer money to a candidate for the purpose of a campaign, and contributions were limited to normal limits.
[Oregonian, 10/09/09]
Four Traffic Infractions There were four traffic infractions filed against Cornilles in Oregon between 1988 and 2001. [Nexis Public
Records]
1988: A speeding infraction for exceeding max speed for trucks. Union County Courts case number 883432, offense date May 31, 1988. 1995: A exceed maximum speed court fine of $66. Yamhill county court, case number T9504407, offense date August 31, 1995. 1997: A failure to carry registration card. Clackamas County Court case number 9773940, offense date April 24, 1997. 2001: A fine of $173 for violation of basic rule. Clackamas County Court case number 0185566, offense date June 11, 2001.
Political Issues
Cornilles Lost Endorsement of Oregonian In 2012, Bonamici got the endorsement of the Oregonian Cornilles lost the endorsement which he received last cycle. in background and in understanding of the issues, Cornilles can't match Bonamici Cornilles' considerable but untried energy might better be tested first at the legislative or local level.
[Editorial, Oregonian, 1/7/12]
Lacked Legislative Experience In 2012, Cornilles did not get the endorsement of the Daily Astorian, in part because he had no legislative experience. Cornilles has not served on a public board or commission or held elective office. [Editorial,
Daily Astorian, 1/10/12]
Claimed He Would be Bipartisan in House In 2012 Cornilles tried to praise the whole Oregon Congressional delegation to make himself look bipartisan. He claimed his independence and being in the majority would be an asset in the House. He would be in the majority, which would be an asset, he said. At the same time, the GOP leadership would understand that he couldn't vote in lockstep with them and continue to hold the district. That, he said, would give him the leverage to be independent. [Oregonian, 1/4/12] Staked Campaign on Business Experience In 2011, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported that Cornilles has staked his campaign on his experience in businessRepublican Rob Cornilles usually frames this issue in terms of his own experience with the sports marketing firm he founded in 1995. [Oregon Public Broadcasting, 12/14/11] Didnt Have Good Week with Investigative Reports Detailing Business Problems and Inflated Claims In 2011, Cornilles didnt have the best week of press. The Oregonian dug into issues he had with his sports marketing company including a federal tax lien and legal questions he faced about the companys business model. Then the Willamette Week published a story that cast doubt on some of the claims he made over the prominence of his business. [Hotline, National Journal, 12/14/11] Daily Kos: Id expect things to get worse, not better, for Cornilles In 2011, it was reported that Cornilless negative press on his business could hurt the argument hes trying to make, and whats more, these revelations only emerged this week, which suggests that they may not have fully percolated and may not be completely reflected in this poll. That is to say, Id expect things to get worse, not better, for Cornilles. [Daily Kos, 12/16/11] Cornilles 98% Voting Record Attack
In October Cornilles said, For someone to be a 98% voter with their party, like some of my Democrat opponents are in the state legislature, or like my previous opponent Mr. Wu was in Congress, if Im a 98 percenter Ill be the Republican version of David Wu and I dont think thats healthy for this district. [Oregon Public Broadcasting, Think Out Loud, 13:51, 10/28/11] On November 5, 2011 Cornilles said, Im running against someone on the other side, shes voted 98% of her time in Salem with her party. I think anyone who votes 98% of the time in Salem with her party will probably do the same thing in Washington DC. [McMinnville Meet and Greet, Part 2,
38:29, 11/5/11]
On November 9, 2011 Cornilles said, And while in Salem, Senator Bonamici, she voted with the majority of her party 98 percent of the time, 98 percent. She has a more partisan voting record than David Wu. Ladies and gentlemen we dont need more of the same. Voting 98 percent of the time with your party is not leadership, its button pushing. [Campaign Kick Off Presser, Part 2, 0:23, 11/9/11] On November 27, 2011 Cornilles said, Senator Bonamici, she talks about separating herself from her party but the reality is she votes 98% of the time with the Democrats in Salem. I dont know how that represents bipartisanship, that represents to me more of the same. We cant afford more of the same. [Independent Party of Oregon Debate, Part 2, 2:55, 11/27/11] On November 9, 2011 the Oregonian reported that Cornilles, in a speech to supporters at the World Forestry Center, criticized Bonamici for voting with the majority of her party 98 percent of the time in the last legislative session. That is not leadership, he said, its button-pushing.
[Oregonian, 11/9/11]
Said Americans Should Elect Candidates Willing to Break from Their Party In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said, we need to elect people who have shown a willingness to break from their party. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Called Himself a True Independent Voice In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles advocated for voters from Oregons First District to, send a true independent voice to Congress who has not only proven he knows how to create jobs through his own small business (60 employees in16 years), but will be a champion and strong advocate for the First District. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Columnist: Cornilles to Face Criticism that He was More Conservative Than He Would Admit In 2011, Portland-based political analyst Len Bergstein wrote that Cornilles would face criticism that he was more conservative than he says he is - more like a tea-party candidate of the 2010 campaign, out to destroy social security and Medicare. Cornilles would try to appeal to the voter who is angry at politics as usual and incumbents -- as well as those anti-Obama voters. Cornilles will be most successful if he gets voters to think about this election in terms of national issues - anger at government and politicians, anger at big government and overspending at the national level and reasons to not like Obama, Bergstein said. [Columnist, Len Bergstein, Portland-based political analyst, 11/19/11]
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Distanced Himself from Republican Party Despite Receiving Funding from Boehner and Other GOP Leaders In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles tried to distance himself from the Republican Party leaders like John Boehner, despite receiving contributions from Boehner and other senior House Republicans. Just in case youre wondering, Im not running for John Boehner, Cornilles said, referring to the Republican House speaker. Im not running for a party. Im running for a people. Democrats said Cornilles is telling voters what they want to hear but cant be trusted not to vote with Republican leaders.
[Real Clear Politics, 11/9/11]
Claimed He was Not Running for Boehner Received $5,000 from Boehner a Week Before He Made Claim In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles claimed he was not running for John Boehner, a week before, however, he received a $5,000 contribution from the leader. The Oregonian reported Cornilles said I am not running for John Boehner, I am not running for a party. Just last week, however, the House speakers political action committee contributed $5,000 to Cornilles campaign, joining several other GOP House members who have given to the GOP nominee. [The
Oregonian, 11/9/11]
Claimed He Talked to Republicans About Fact that He Wouldnt Vote for Republican Party All the Time In 2011, Cornilles said he wouldnt vote with the Republican Party all the time and that he had talked with them about this fact. They know that going in. They knew it when I ran the first time. Ive had conversations with them. They know why Im running. They know Im not doing it to seek party favors, says Cornilles. [Oregon Public Broadcasting, 11/9/11] Claimed He Would Vote Against Party if in Oregons Best Interests Despite being a lifelong Republican Cornilles claimed he would against his party if he felt it was in the best interest of Oregonians. And so for me its about reaching voters, Oregonian to Oregonian and talking to them about, how do we create jobs in these communities, how do we keep companies here, how do we grow our schools, said Cornilles. [KGW.com, 11/10/11] Won 73% of Vote in 2011 GOP Primary In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles won 73% of the vote in Oregons First Districts Republican primary. [The Oregonian, 11/9/11] Had Been a Republican for Whole Life Claimed He Wasnt Running for a Party In 2011, Cornilles said he was not running for a party, despite the fact that he had been a Republican all his life. Ive never been a fan of labels, Cornilles said. A lot of people are frustrated because they have a hard time pinning a label on me. They forget that Im not running for a party, Im running for people.
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Ive been a republican all my life, but Im not afraid of calling the Republican Party out when they make mistakes. [Tualatin Times, 11/10/11] Decided to Run for Office Because He was in a Good Place and had Family Support In 2010, Cornilles said he decided to run for office because he was in a good place and had family supporting him. I decided I was in a good place, I had a good family supporting me, I knew something about job creation so I decided to run. The decision to run for the seat again did not come easily after losing to Wu in 2010. We were wiser, Cornilles said. We talked about it as a family, prayerfully considered it, and decided this is the best way we can contribute to the community. [Tualatin Times, 11/10/11] Cornilles Did Not Have Easy Path to Victory Needed to Change Voters Party ID In 2011, Jim Moore, who teaches political science at Pacific University said Cornilles had to focus on changing voters natural party identifications. Moore said Cornilles has to focus on changing voters natural party identifications. The Forest Grove News Times wrote, Cornilles had to get every Republican vote in the district, turning independent voters on and catching some wayward Democrats, thats not an easy path to victory. [Forest Grove News-Times, 11/16/11] Claimed He Would Change Washington, D.C.
In 2011, Cornilles said he planned to do a few things differently after he lost to Wu in 2010 he said he would change Washington, D.C. Now that weve taken the first step in changing the 1st District of Oregon, are you ready to change Washington, D.C., with me? Cornilles asked supporters. Everyones got their work cut out for them, (making sure that) voters are well-educated about the two candidates, Cornilles said. (My main concern) is that there may not be enough time for the voters to get to know me and realize what I can do to benefit this district. We have 84 days. Ill go anywhere, Ill do anything to communicate with voters. And when I say communicate, its not just talking, but listening. [Forest Grove News-Times, 11/16/11]
Claimed to Have Bipartisan Support In 2011, Cornilles claimed he had bipartisan support for his candidacy. Im already getting bipartisan
support. I would challenge Sen. Bonamici to tell us what Republicans are supporting her. I have Democrats who are supporting me, I have independents who are supporting me, and thats because people are tired of the same-old, same-old. They want to go a new direction in this district, not to mention this state. [Forest Grove News-Times,
11/16/11]
Oregon Special Election Likely to be Overshadowed by Republican Presidential Race In 2011, the Forest Grove News-Times reported that the Oregon special election would likely be overshadowed by the Republican presidential race. Cornilles has to hope that anti-incumbent mood (antiDemocratic in this case) lasts into January, Moore said. The political dynamic will be quite different then. The Republican presidential race will dominate all media coverage. This House seat will either
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disappear in the blizzard of caucuses and primaries, or it will be seen as a harbinger of national trends. We can hope for the latter, but prepare for the former. [Forest Grove News-Times, 11/16/11] Republicans in Presidential Race and in House Could be Problematic for Cornilles In 2011, it was reported that if a more extreme presidential candidate took the lead it could be problematic for Cornilles. That is bad for Cornilles - just being Republican will be problematic, said Jim Moore, who teaches political science at Pacific University. Another scenario, could be one where the leading Republican candidate takes stands that Cornilles opposes. It may make it even harder for Cornilles in office if the Rs still have a majority in the House, Moore said. [Forest Grove News-Times, 11/16/11] Had to Unite Republican Party and Covert Democrats to Win In 2011, talk radio host Jayne Carroll wrote that in order to win Cornilles had to heal the wounds that divided his party and offer voters something better than Democrats have been delivering for the past 37 years. Cornilles was cautious and presented himself as a moderate. Democrats attacked flopping businessman with no core values. If Cornilles is going to win, he is going to have to convert some Democrats, get the bulk of the Independents, and energize the Republicans. [Op-ed, Jayne Carroll, Hillsboro
Argus, 11/15/11]
Walked Fine Line with Tea Party Voters and Moderate Positions In 2011, Cornilles had to attract Tea Party voters without changing his moderate positioning as a selfdescribed Hatfield/Packwood Republican. [Editorial, Forest Grove News Times, 11/16/11] Tried to Convince GOP He was One of them Without Appearing Extremist In 2011, Cornilles tried to convince the GOP that he was one of them without appearing to Democrats not to be an unrealistic extremist. Cornilles was running in the face of the Oregon Republican Party, which experienced problems when the religious right called the shots, insisting on rigidly anti-abortion and antihomosexual candidates. The Daily Astorian editorial read Cornilles spent a lot of time trying to convince GOP voters that he was one of them while appearing to Democrats not to be an unrealistic extremist.
[Daily Astorian, 11/15/11]
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In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles started out at a disadvantage in the Oregon special election. An editorial read that he lost to Democrat Wu by 13 percentage points in 2010, despite the Republican surge that year and despite an early trickle of allegations about Wus peculiar behavior (the well-known photo of Wu wearing a tiger suit surfaced before the election). Democrats have an edge in voter registration in the 1st District, which stretches from the western neighborhoods of Portland to the Oregon Coast, and have held the seat since Les AuCoin was elected in 1974. [Editorial, Register-Guard, 11/10/11] Cornilles Needed to Add More Depth to Answers; Called quick and over-confident in his knowledge In 2011, the Oregonian editorial board said Cornilles, meanwhile, has to add more depth and political savvy to his campaign. He still sometimes comes across as glib, offering too-smooth, its-as-simple-asthat answers to complicated issues such as education reform or cutting federal spending and reducing the deficit. Cornilles quick and over-confident in his knowledge. [Editorial, Oregonian, 11/9/11] Claimed 97% of Fundraising Came from Oregon, Not Washington DC In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles was asked by a constituent in a radio interview how he would stand up to Republican leadership when offered deals to support their efforts. Cornilles responded that he remember[s] who Im representing. Im not running for John Boehner, Im running for people like you, Betty. This is why 97% of my fundraising is coming from within the state of Oregon, not special interests, not lobbyists from Washington DC. [Oregon Public Radio, Think Out Loud, 15:00, 10/28/11] Said He Would Not be a 98% Voter with His Party In 2011, it was reported that in a radio interview, Cornilles was asked how much support he had received from Republican groups, and responded that he believed GOP leadership understood that he was running in an eclectic district, and that for someone to be a 98% voter with their party, like some of my Democrat opponents are in the state legislature, or like my previous opponent Mr. Wu was in Congress, if Im a 98 percenter, Ill be the Republican version of David Wu and I dont think thats healthy for this district and I think the Republican leadership understands that as well. [Oregon Public Radio, Think Out Loud,
13:50, 10/28/11]
Said He Wasnt Running for Republican Party, but for a People In 2011, it was reported that in a radio interview, when asked where he saw himself within the Republican Party, Cornilles said, Im not running for a party, Im running for a people. [Oregon Public Radio, Think Out
Loud, 12:15, 10/28/11]
Graduated from Brigham Young University In a 2011 candidate guide by The Oregonian, it was reported that Cornilles received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Brigham Young University. He also went to Newberg High School. [The Oregonian, accessed
10/31/11]
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In 2011, Cornilles said he was not a career politician and political games wouldnt solve problems. I am a proven career-builder, not a career politician. If you think Oregon would be well served to send more of the same to Washington D.C., my opponents offer you another chance to send a partisan to Congress who will be eager to vote for a party rather than a people. If you believe, as I, that todays political games are not going to solve our growing unemployment and economic problems, and that its time to elect new leaders, I humbly ask for your vote. Lets elevate our expectations of what our representatives in Congress should be. [The Oregonian, accessed 10/31/11] Cornilles Claim: I dont believe the extreme on either side is the answer In 2011, Cornilles claimed he did not believe in the extreme on either side of the answer. I think I share your feeling that we need a sense of responsibility, people need to be responsible for their actions. Those who dont play by the rules need to be held responsible for it, those who are working hard and weve seen a lot of those people in this economy who need some additional assistance either to start a business or to keep a business afloat, those people also need fair consideration. I dont believe the extreme on either side is the answer. [Lektro, 26:17, 10/27/11] Oregonian Editorial Board: Hoped to See Some More Detailed Ideas From Cornilles In 2011, the Oregonian wrote that they hoped to see some more detailed ideas from Cornilles. [Editorial,
Oregonian, 11/2/11]
Cornilles: thats the only thing Ill say today thats not true When talking about Game Face and his work with professional sports teams Cornilles said Some of you may know I started my career working in the professional sports world. Worked for an NBA basketball team, power forward, thats the only thing Ill say today thats not true. [Westside Economic Alliance Candidate Forum, Part 1, 7:35, 10/27/11] Cornilles Declined to be Specific In 2011, although Cornilles said he favored retooling the Dodd-Frank Wall Street regulation bill he declined to be specific about aspects hed revise. [Oregon Public Broadcasting, 10/26/11] Jim Greenfield was Cornilles Only Serious Challenger in the GOP Primary In 2011, it was reported that Jim Greenfield was Cornilles only serious challenger in the GOP primary. Cornilles reported $505,556 in contributions, he spent $101,295. Greenfield told the News-Times he is loaning his campaign $100,000. Cornilles received large donation from Nike Founder Phil Knight, Stimson Lumber CEO Andrew Miller, former U.S Sen. Bob Packwood and former Oregon Gov. Victor G. Atiyeh. [Portland Tribune, 10/19/11] Cornilles Had Thin Platform
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In 2011, the Willamette Weekly endorsed Cornilles in the Republican primary, but said his platform is thin. [Editorial, Willamette Weekly, 10/19/11] Criticized for Failing to be a True Conservative At a forum in 2011, Cornilles failed to attend, but was attacked by his opponent for failing to be a true conservative. And though Cornilles did not attend, Greenfield used the opportunity to take jabs at his Republican primary challenger, whom he called a nice guy, a moderate. Greenfield said he was the only true fiscal conservative running and criticized Cornilles for not publicly taking a pledge not to raise taxes. [Daily Astorian, 10/17/11] Refused to Sign No Tax Pledge or Repeal of Federal Health-Care Law In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles refused to sign the no-tax pledge or vow to repeal the new federal health-care law. [Editorial, Forest Grove News-Times, 10/19/11] Said He was Not a Career Politician In 2011, Cornilles received the Oregonian endorsement in the primary and said his career experience meant he was not a typical politician. Cornilles, of Tualatin, is the founder and president of Game Face, a five-employee sports consulting and training company. He has never held public office but has served on several community boards, including Virginia Garcia health centers, Special Olympics of Oregon and the Oregon League of Minority Voters. Cornilles argues that voters in the district are tired of candidates on the typical career track, and that a businessman with community experience can speak to their concerns.
[Editorial, Oregonian, 10/15/11]
Headline: Blasted by his own party - Hes not a real Republican In 2011, Cornilles faced intense scrutiny from fellow Republicans about his conservative credentials. His Republican opponents said he was not a real conservative. Im a fiscally conservative Republican, he said. However, both of his primary opponents disagreed. Jim Greenfield said he wanted an aggressive approach to cut the national debt. Hes not a real Republican, Greenfield said. Greenfield cited Cornilless refusal to sign pledges to not raise taxes or to repeal the federal health care law. Every single Republican in Congress voted against Obamacare, so Rob Cornilles is clearly out of touch with Republicans on that, he said. Republican candidate Lisa Michaels agreed and said Republicans shouldnt look to Cornilles to limit government and cut taxes. If you want to elect somebody, you need to elect somebody who is a rock solid conservative, she said. Both Republicans expressed concerns that conservatives would not be motivated by Cornilles as the partys nominee. [KATU.com, 10/13/11] Said He Wasnt Running Against Obama In 2011, Cornilles said he was not running against Obama and didnt talk about him much on the campaign trail. Im not running against President Obama, Cornilles said. Im running for a district that hasnt had a champion in Congress for years. [Politico, 11/14/11]
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Attacked By Right for Failing to Support No Tax Pledge and Health Care Repeal At a 2011 forum, Cornilles fended off attacks from the right. Cornilles was attacked by Jim Greenfield for not signing the no-new-taxes pledge offered by Grover Norquists Americans for Tax Reform. I have signed the no-new- tax pledge. Rob Cornilles has not, Greenfield said, adding hes also signed a pledge to repeal the Affordable Care Act, which Cornilles wont do. Maybe Rob should run in the Democratic primary. Lisa Michaels, a Beaverton marketing consultant, piled on with Greenfield. Im a conservative. Jims a conservative. Rob is not, Michaels said. [Forest Grove News-Times 10/12/11] Said He Didnt Sign Other Peoples Pledges and Defended Stance on Health Care Reform At a 2011 forum, Cornilles fended off attacks from the right. He said he didnt sign other peoples pledges and would work to reform President Obamas health care bill instead of getting caught up in the game of voting to repeal it in full. [Forest Grove News-Times 10/12/11] Was in DC at Event in 2011 Held at the Republican National Campaign Committee In 2011, it was reported by Oregon Capitol News that Cornilles was scheduled to make a DC appearance with a stop at the Business Coalition for Fair Competition. The event was held at the Republican National Campaign Committee offices. The Business Coalition for Fair Competition was a policy advocacy group that promotes the utilization of and reliance upon the private sector by government at all levels and that eliminates unfair government-sponsored competition with private, for profit enterprise, including small business. [Oregon Capitol News, 10/5/11] Said No One from DC Asked Him to Run for Congress In a 2011 radio show Cornilles said people should trust him because no one from DC asked him to run for Congress. Cornilles said, So why they should trust me? Is because I wasnt groomed for this position. And you know Anne, nobody asked me from Washington D.C. would I run. No one approached me ten years ago and said Rob were going to put you on the career track to run for congress someday but you got to do this and then that, youve got to return this favor for us. You scratch our back, well scratch yours. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 1, 13:03, Posted 9/23/11] Announced Running for Congress July 2009, Met with National Republican Party In July 2009, Cornilles announced he was running for congress. He met with representatives from the National Republican Party to discuss his prospects and criticized Representative David Wu for the fiscal policies of Democrats in Congress. Wu, Cornilles said, is contributing to a spending spree right now that is racking up a debt and a deficit that is going to adversely affect our community for years to come. [Oregonian, 7/15/09] Claimed He was Not Political
17
In 2011, Cornilles said he did not come from a political background. I dont come from the political background. I dont know how to play the political games and dont know how to get to the edge of brinkmanship. But I do know how to get stuff done. And I know how to work with people of varying backgrounds economical, educational, ethnic backgrounds and Ive demonstrated that in my career.
[Daily Astorian, 9/23/11]
Hired Anne Ostrom as New Campaign Manager In 2011, Cornilles hired Mary Anne Ostrom as his new campaign manager. Mary Anne Ostrom, a former tech and political reporter for the San Jose Mercury News and most recently director of media affairs for Meg Whitman for Governor 2010. [Politico, 10/5/11] The Special Election in Oregon Leaned More Democratic Than New York Special The Oregonian reported that Wus old district leans more towards Democrats than New York. At this point, according to the Cook Political Report, Wus old district leans slightly more to the Democrats than does the open New York Congressional seat. Cook rates the Oregon seat as favoring Democrats by eight points, compared to the five-point Democratic lean in New York. [Blog, Oregonian,
9/9/11]
Democratic Edge in OR-01; Cornilles Lost By 12 Percentage Points in 2010, a Strong Republican Year In 2011, it was reported that OR-01 had a Democratic registration edge and Wu defeated Cornilles by more than 12 percentage points when the two went head-to-head in 2010, which was a strong Republican year. [Blog, Oregonian, 10/3/11] Jim Greenfield Announced Run Against Rob Cornilles In August 2011, Jim Greenfield announced that he was putting together a team to take on Rob Cornilles. Greenfield got 34 percent of the vote in his attempt to unseat Wu in 2002. [Columbian, 8/11/11] Received Oregonian Endorsement in 2010 In 2010, Cornilles received the endorsement of the Oregonian, noting that voters seeking a new, moreconsistent presence in Congress should choose Cornilles. The paper also wrote that he had no government experience at any level and will have to deepen his knowledge of many issues facing the district. [Oregonian, Editorial, 9/26/10]
Senior Issues
Favored Means Test on Social Security as well as Medicare Benefits In 2012, Cornilles said he favored means test Social Security as well as Medicare benefits.
[Oregonian, 1/10/12]
18
Favored Reducing Social Security Benefits Through Means-Testing for Wealthier Seniors In 2011, the Oregonian pointed out that Cornilles talked about reducing the costs of Social Security through such possibilities as means-testing benefits for wealthier seniors. [Oregonian, 12/8/11] Applauded Wyden on Plan to Fix Medicare In 2012, Cornilles said I have applauded Ron Wyden several times in the last three weeks for ideas that hes been espousing, whether it be on trade, whether it be on how we fix Medicare. [ELGL Meeting, 34:00,
1/5/12]
Praised Wyden and Ryans Medicare Plan In 2012 Cornilles praised Wyden and Ryans Medicare plan. Cornilles said Wyden has been like my best buddy in recent weeks by taking such steps as reaching out to Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wisc., to collaborate on a Medicare plan. [Oregonian, 1/4/12] Applauded Senator Wyden and Rep. Ryans Medicare Reform Plan In 2011, Cornilles applauded Senator Wyden and Rep. Ryans Medicare reform plan, designed to protect seniors health care choices while taking steps to protect the systems financial viability for the next generation. Cornilles said he appreciated Senator Wydens resolve to overhaul our federal tax code and find ways to expand access to health care while controlling costsI appreciate that he stepped forward on the difficult issue of Medicare when leadership was needed. Cornilles said private options are important too. He went on to say What I see in the collaboration between Sen. Wyden and Congressman Ryan is the beginning of a serious, bipartisan discussion to find common ground on this very difficult issue. He also accused his opponent of being unable to step away from her party leadership and support bold ideas like Sen. Wydens. We cant afford more of the same.
[Cornilles for Congress, 12/16/11]
Democrats Said Cornilles Wanted to Privatize Parts of Medicare Cornilles Said He Favored Medicare Advantage In 2011, Cornilles claimed a Democratic ad asserting that he wanted to privatize parts of Medicare was twisting he views. He said he wanted to continue the Medicare advantage plans that allow seniors to obtain Medicare benefits through private plans. [Oregonian, 12/8/11] Claimed He Would Maintain Medicare Choice In 2011, Cornilles issued a Cornilles Commitment and claimed he would maintain Medicare choice. He wrote We must maintain Medicare choice for seniors so they can choose a plan that they feel best suits their health care needs. [CornillesCommitment.com, accessed 12/8/11] Claimed He Would Oppose Any Effort to Privatize Social Security or Medicare
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In 2011, Cornilles issued a Cornilles Commitment claiming he would oppose any effort to privatize Social Security or Medicare. [CornillesCommitment.com, accessed 12/8/11] Claimed He Would Protect Benefits for Those Nearing Retirement In 2011, Cornilles issued a Cornilles Commitment and claimed he would protect those nearing retirement. He wrote I will push for sensible reforms to lower costs for our seniors and protect those nearing retirement, while ensuring benefits will be there for younger generations.
[CornillesCommitment.com, accessed 12/8/11]
Supported Imposing Means Testing for Social Security and Favored Bowles-Simpson
In 2011, Cornilles supported means testing for Social Security and favored the Bowles Simpson Commission Report. When asked what changes he supported regarding Social Security Cornilles said he supported imposing some form of means testing so that benefits for high-income seniors are reduced but benefits for lower income seniors remains unchanged. He also wrote, I oppose privatization, period. Politicians should also stop spending annual Social Security surpluses on other government programs, robbing money from future retirees. Common sense reforms need to be embraced and we need to stop kicking the can down the road by continually ignoring good starting points, like the bipartisan Bowles Simpson Commission Report. I truly believe that Social Security can be preserved for future generations with just a few bipartisan changes. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011]
Supported Imposing Means Testing for Medicare and Using Bowles-Simpson as a Starting Point
When asked what changes he supported in the current Medicare funding system Cornilles checked the box Impose means testing so that high-income seniors pay higher premiums for their Medicare (Parts B, C, D) coverage. And, Reduce hospital costs and costs of procedures by stricter controls and audits. He also said he opposed the Ryan Plan and keeping the status quo of Medicare. He said we must look, again, to Bowles-Simpson as a starting point. He accused the Democrats of supporting $500 billion in Medicare cuts. The cuts largely come out of a program called Medicare Advantage, which is an alternative to traditional fee-for-service Medicare. In Oregon, over 254,000 seniors have chosen Medicare Advantage for their health care. It is estimated by Medicares Chief Actuary that these cuts will force nearly half of Oregons seniors whove selected this option back onto fee - for-service Medicare he result will be catastrophic cuts and premium increases that will harm seniors and, over time, cause an end to the system as we know it today. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011]
Cornilles Medicare Claim Against Bonamici False In 2011, Politifact described Cornilless claim that Bonamici supported cutting $500 billion from Medicare by supporting President Obamas Affordable Care Act as false. Were giving Cornilles a False for his statement that Bonamici supports $500 billion in cuts to Medicare. [PolitiFact, Oregonian, 11/14/11] Cornilles Medicare Claim Against Bonamici Wrong In 2011, Politifact repeatedly pointed out that Cornilless claim that President Obamas Affordable Care Act cut $500 billion from Medicare was wrong. [PolitiFact, Oregonian, 11/14/11]
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Politifact Repeatedly Debunked Cornilles Medicare Claim In 2011, Politifact repeatedly debunked Cornilless claim that President Obamas Affordable Care Act cut $500 billion from Medicare. Well, PolitiFact Oregon addressed it more than a year ago when Scott Bruun tried to use it against Rep. Kurt Schrader and called the claim Mostly False. The article continued But thats not all: PolitiFact National gave Michele Bachmann a Mostly False in September for claiming Obama was stealing $500 billion from Medicare. In July, PolitiFact Texas gave a state representative a Mostly False for claiming $500 billion in Medicare cuts were coming. And PolitiFact Ohio served up an out-and-out False to the National Republican Senatorial Committee in June for claiming that Sen. Sherrod Brown had voted to cut $500 billion from Medicare. [PolitiFact, Oregonian,
11/14/11]
Politifact: Affordable Care Act Does Not Eliminate Current Medicare Benefits In 2011, Politifact reported that The Affordable Care Act does not actually eliminate any current Medicare benefits. When Cornilles accused Bonamici of supporting a $500 billion cut to Medicare, Politifact wrote The Affordable Care Act does reduce Medicare spending by $500 billion over the next 10 years. But heres the catch: Those dollars arent taken out of the current budget, they are not actual cuts, and nowhere does the bill actually eliminate any current benefits. [PolitiFact, Oregonian, 11/14/11] The Affordable Care Act Reduced Medicare Spending by $500 Billion Over the Next 10 Years Primarily Through Savings In 2011, Politifact reported that The Affordable Care Act reduced Medicare spending by $500 billion over the next 10 years primarily through savings. About $220 billion comes from reducing annual increases in Medicare payments to health care providers. Another $36 billion comes from increasing premiums for higher-income beneficiaries. Administrative changes land another $12 billion in savings. A new national board is set to come up with $15.5 billion in savings -- but cant get those savings from a reduction in benefits. The last big chunk of $136 billion comes in changes to the Medicare Advantage program, which has become more expensive than initially anticipated. [PolitiFact, Oregonian, 11/14/11] The Affordable Care Act Did Not Cut Current Budget for Medicare, Nor Did It Cut Guaranteed Medicare Benefits In 2011, Politifact reported that that The Affordable Care Act did not cut the current budget for Medicare, nor did it cut guaranteed Medicare benefits. while its true that the government is looking to reduce the growth of future spending, the Affordable Care Act does not eliminate $500 billion out of the current budget for Medicare. Most important, there are no cuts to guaranteed Medicare benefits. [PolitiFact, Oregonian, 11/14/11] Bonamici Supported the Affordable Care Act - did not Support Cutting Medicare Benefits
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In 2011, Bonamici said that she supported the Affordable Care Act, but did not support cutting Medicare benefits. Let me be absolutely clear: I do not support cutting Medicare benefits. I believe Medicare is a fundamental promise our nation owes to seniors and keeping Medicare financially stable is simply a matter of getting our priorities straight. [PolitiFact, Oregonian, 11/14/11] Cornilless Campaign Stuck to False Medicare Claim In 2011, Politifact repeatedly debunked Cornilless the claim that President Obamas Affordable Care Act cut $500 billion from Medicare, however, he stuck by his claim. His campaign pointed to an Oregonian article before the health care bill passed that described the proposed savings as cuts, Politifact wrote it does, but it doesnt make the claim any more accurate. The campaign also pointed to a Washington Post article that pointed out that Republican leaders have supported the same cuts in Medicare. In the House Republican budget, lawmakers repealed the Obama health care law but retained all but $10 billion of the nearly $500 billion in Medicare savings, suggesting the actual policies enacted to achieve these spending reductions were not that objectionable to GOP lawmakers. [PolitiFact, Oregonian, 11/14/11] Cornilless Campaign Pointed to Washington Post Story that Wrote His Medicare Claim Has Significant Exaggerations In 2011, Cornilless campaign pointed to a Washington Post story to back-up claim that the Affordable Care Act cut $500 billion from Medicare, but the story found his Medicare accusation had significant omissions and/or exaggerations. Politifact repeatedly debunked Cornilless claim that President Obamas Affordable Care Act cut $500 billion from Medicare. [PolitiFact, Oregonian,
11/14/11]
Means Testing and Raising the Minimum Age were on the Table for Social Security When asked about Social Security Cornilles said means testing and raising the minimum age were on the table. Cornilles said, the way it is right now is not going to workthere are some workable solutions. What Im hearing from people I talk to in DCis they say all the issues that are out there right now because everybody from both sideswe need this thing to be preserved nicelyso I think weather were talking about means testing or whether were talking about raising the minimum age of receiving Social Security, those types of things are on the table. [Washington County Meet and Greet, Dicks Country Chrysler Jeep
Dodge, 11/3/11]
Note: The Obama administration, in seeking $4 trillion in spending cuts in a debt limit deal, has put major changes to Social Security and Medicare on the table if Republicans agree to increased tax revenues. [Daily Caller, 7/6/11] Declined to be Interviewed on About Healthcare, Medicare and Medicaid In 2011, Cornilles declined to be interviewed by the Lund Report, a group that focused on healthcare. The Democratic candidates interviewed opposed cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. [Oregonian, 11/1/11] Claimed He Was Not for the Sole Privatization of Medicare and Social Security
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In 2011, Cornilles claimed he was not for the sole privatization of Medicare and Social Security. I certainly have never been for the privatization, the sole privatization of Medicare or Social Security. I think we need to give seniors the choices that theyve come to rely on and we need to preserve those programs because theyre so important and seniors have paid into those systems and they need to know that theyre going to be there when they need them most. [KOHI Interview, 4:53, 11/2/11] Touted Bowles-Simpson Report to Make Social Security Viable for Future In 2011, at the Beaverton Fall Voters Forum Cornilles said, I dont believe in the privatization of Social Security. I think our countries had that debate several years ago and I think we had a resounding answer from the American people. Heres what most concerns me about Social Security, other than the fact that it has to be fixed. Because as Suzanne said we made promises to seniors and I agree those promises need to be kept not just for todays seniors, but for future seniors. How do you do that? You make sure that the programs viable in the future. And as I said heres what disappoints me. He went on to say Last year the Bowles-Simpson report came out as commissioned by the President and in that report, which took 8 months to create they laid out some very pragmatic and very compromising ideas that we can start a discussion with in Washington, DC. What happened? Well essentially that report went in the desk drawer of people in the oval office and people in Congress and so were still talking about it. [Beaverton Fall Voters Forum, 19:37, 10/24/11] Talked About Allowing Choice Between Private Plans and Current System in Medicare and Social Security In 2011, the Oregonian reported, Cornilles said he would support a hybrid approach for Medicare that would allow seniors to choose between private plans and the current system. And he has also talked about allowing more choice in Social Security as well. [Oregonian, 10/25/11] Supported Reforming Medicare for Next Generation In 2011, Cornilles said he did not favor the no action plan on Medicare, instead he would reform for the next generation. He wrote, The second plan is to try to find solutions that will safeguard Medicare for those currently in the system or nearing retirement age, while finding reforms that will ensure it is financially healthy for the coming generation to retireI support preserving the safety net of health care for seniors, particularly those who lack the means to access health insurance anywhere else.
[Oregonian, 10/24/11]
Wanted to State Steps to Shore Up Medicare and Social Security In 2011, Cornilles said he wanted to take careful, prudent steps to shore up Medicare and Social Security and distanced himself from the House Republican budget plan to end Medicare as an entitlement program. [Oregonian, 10/25/11] Suggested Congress Use Bowles-Simpson Commissions Report to Preserve Medicare and Social Security
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In 2011, Cornilles said Congress and the President should have gone through the Bowles-Simpson Commissions report on how to preserve Medicare and Social Security. Congress and the President should have been busy this past year digging through the bi-partisan Bowles-Simpson Commissions report on how to preserve Medicare and Social Security. [Oregonian, 10/24/11] Said Social Security Needed To Be Reformed In 2011, Cornilles said Social Security needed to be reformed. Social Security, while in need of some reform for future generations, is thankfully easier to place on a sustainable track than Medicare However, for younger workers many of whom already say they are suspicious that they will ever receive benefits we need to enact common-sense bipartisan reforms. [Oregonian, 10/24/11] Questioned How Social Security Would be Provided to Next Generation In 2011, Cornilles said the question was how Social Security would be provided to kids and grandkids, he touted the Bowles-Simpson deficit reduction report. When asked about Social Security and the debt Cornilles said, First and foremost, we have to protect Social Security. Its a safety net that todays seniors have invested in, and theyve been promised that. We have to keep those promises, as well as those people in our country who are disadvantaged. The question therefore is how do we make sure that their kids, and their grandkids, and great-grandkids have the same type of certainty when they reach that age, or when they reach that need? He went on to say, I was really encouraged a year ago when the President commissioned what they called the Deficit Reduction Board, Bowles-Simpson is another name for it, and one of the things that they put on the table was some ideas to save Social Security. And while I dont agree with everything in their proposal or their recommendations, I was very discouraged when Congress and the President essentially just put their ideas in a desk drawer and theyve been sitting there all year. [League of Women
Voters, 53:19, 10/20/11]
Avoided Talking About Ryan Budget In 2011, Cornilles avoided talking about the Ryan budget. [Politico, 11/14/11] Supported a Private Option for Medicare In 2011, Cornilles said he supported a hybrid approach of giving seniors a choice between the existing system and a private option in relation to the Republican budget plan. [Oregonian, 10/11/11] Supported Private Option for Social Security When asked about the Ryan Plan, Cornilles said, Right now theres two plans, essentially, one is to let Social Security go bankrupt by doing nothing, by allowing it to just continue on its present course. And the other is to take it totally private. I think that somewhere in between, I think you create an opportunity rather to allow people more choice. [Pacific University Candidate Forum, 31:54, 10/9/11] Asked What He Meant When He Said He Supported a Private Option for Seniors with Medicare and Social Security
24
In 2011, Cornilles was asked, The Democratic Partys also taking you to task on your position on Social Security. Youve called it sort of a hybrid reform where you favor a private option for seniors with Social Security and Medicare. And some people would say that is really risky with the volatile Wall Street, being able to your money in private investment. Why do you think thats a good idea? He said, Well first of all, Ill be very clear I have never, nor would I ever support privatization of Social Security. What I do believe though is that Social Security needs to be sustainable for everybody. Right now, those seniors who are enjoying its benefits and who are soon to enjoy its benefits, that needs to be there for them. We have made promises to our seniors, theyve contributed to the system and that needs to be something that they receive. Down the road, how are we going to make sure that the generation 20 years from now, 30 years from now enjoys that same benefit? [News Channel 8, KGW.com, 5:47, 10/15/11] Favored Bowles-Simpson Report for Entitlement Reforms In 2011, Cornilles was asked, The Democratic Partys also taking you to task on your position on Social Security. Youve called it sort of a hybrid reform where you favor a private option for seniors with Social Security and Medicare. And some people would say that is really risky with the volatile Wall Street, being able to your money in private investment. Why do you think thats a good idea? He said, I think that this is, frankly, one of those areas where there is some common ground in Washington DC. This is probably the best place where we can find bipartisanship, however, I find it very discouraging that the Bowels-Simpson report, which was brought out almost a year ago, eight months in the making, it had some common sense ideas. Some of them I agree with some of them I dont, and yet for the most part this year its been sitting in the desk drawers of people in Washington. Im tired of people talking, lets actually roll up our sleeves, get to work and finish something. [News Channel 8,
KGW.com, 5:47, 10/15/11]
Supported Social Security Reform In 2011, columnist Dave Lister wrote that Cornilles supported Social Security reform, but understood the existing program had to be maintained for those whose retirement is on the horizon. [Columnist, Dave Lister,
Oregonian, 9/29/11]
Would Cut Social Security and Medicare Before Trimming Defense In 2010, Cornilles said that he would cut spending on entitlement programs such as Social Security and Medicare before trimming the defense budget. [Daily Astorian, 1/21/10]
25
When talking about reforming the tax code Cornilles said companies were making money off the tax code, which I think it absolutely wrong. [Daily Astorian, uploaded, 3:11, 12/18/11] Involved in Business Group that Sought Big Government Tax Breaks In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles was involved in a business group that sought large tax breaks from the local, state and federal governments, despite his campaign claim that he favored eliminating tax loopholes. Cornilles claimed he was no longer involved in the project, which would have turned the Veterans Memorial Coliseum into a multimedia production hub. The plan would have included millions of dollars in tax incentives. [KATU, 12/14/11] Denied Inconsistency Between Words and Actions on Tax Policy In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles defended his involvement with a group of investors that would have involved big government tax breaks. On his campaign website he railed against a broken tax system and complained about a dizzying number of credits, deductions, and loopholes. But he and a group of investors proposal to revamp the Veterans Memorial Coliseum sought big tax breaks. Cornilles claimed he was no longer involved in the project and tried to distance himself from a proposal that anticipated millions of dollars in tax incentives. So here he was asking for a very large group of tax breaks for this deal but saying that as a candidate hed like to get rid of tax breaks. So it was inconsistent, said Willamette Week reporter Nigel Jaquiss, who broke the story. One mans loophole is another mans credit. I dont say tax breaks should be eliminated in my campaign, Cornilles said. I say we should eliminate corporate loopholes for the mega-corporations and the mega-rich. [KATU, 12/14/11] Development Proposal Relied on Tax Breaks Despite Claim on Campaign Trail that Tax Breaks Hurt Small Business In 2011, Cornilles said tax breaks hurt small businesses ability to create jobs and claimed taxpayers like him got stuck with the bill on tax breaks however, he would have benefitted from tax breaks in his development proposal. Cornilles and his partners proposed an $80 million remodel of Memorial Coliseum that relied on big tax breaks for its investors. His proposal would have made the Coliseum a multimedia facility. The proposal counted on substantial tax breaks for investors, who will receive a 100% State of Oregon (transferable) tax write-off in addition to federal matching incentives co-developed by the City, according to a May business plan. Backers said at the time the proposal could be eligible for as much as $30 million in tax credits. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Claimed He Wasnt Familiar With His Own Development Proposal That Counted On Tax Breaks In 2011, Cornilles claimed he wasnt familiar with his own Memorial Coliseum proposal to turn it into a multimedia facility and associated tax breaks. He said he didnt recall that tax breaks were part of his partnerships proposal despite the fact that it was reported on the Willamette Week May 18, 2011.When shown a copy of his groups plan, he said one of his partners wrote it. Im not as
26
familiar with it as you might think, Cornilles said. It was not a formal proposal. He said the plan was simply a concept. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11] Family Trust Included Retirement Center Built with $9 Million in Public Loans Tax Abatement Worth $2 Million In 2011, Cornilles wife had a 17 percent holding in a family trust which included a Northeast Portland retirement center built with nearly $9 million in public loans. The center had its property tax abatement extended, a break that city officials estimate is worth $2 million. [Willamette Week, 12/14/11]
Tax Issues
Willamette Week: Hypocritical on His Position on Taxes In 2012, the Willamette Week endorsed Bonamici and said he was hypocritical on his position on taxes. He blasts tax breaks for corporations and wealthy individuals, but in 2011 proposed a renovation of Memorial Coliseum built on millions of dollars worth of tax breaks. [Editorial, Willamette Week, 1/11/12] Claimed He Would Enact Fair Tax Code and Eliminate Special Interest Loopholes In 2011, Cornilles issued a Cornilles Commitment claiming he would enact a fair tax code. And claiming he would eliminate special interest loopholes. [CornillesCommitment.com, accessed 12/8/11] Reiterated Support for Bush Tax Cuts In 2011, Cornilles reiterated his support to keep the Bush tax cuts in place. [Oregonian, 12/8/11] Proposed A Tax Plan That Eliminated Loop Holes and Exemptions In 2011, Cornilles proposed a tax plan that eliminated loop holes and exemptions. The News Yamhill County reported he advocated for creating a simpler, more predictable tax code that eliminates many corporate tax loop holes and exemptions to eliminate situations like General Electric that paid no federal taxes last year despite making $14 billion dollars worldwide.
[News Yamhill County, 12/13/11]
Claimed He Would Favor Closing Corporate Loop Holes and Exemptions In 2011, Cornilles claimed he would go to Washington and favor raising tax revenues through closing corporate tax loop holes and exemptions, but also lowering certain tax revenues on others. [News Yamhill
County, 12/13/11]
Supported Eliminating Home Mortgage Interest Deduction for Second Homes In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles voiced his support for the elimination of the home mortgage interest deduction for second homes. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011]
27
Refused to Answer Whether it was Fair the Top 5% of Income Earners Had Lower Tax Rate than Average U.S. Household In 2011, Cornilles refused to answer whether it was fair that the top 5% of income earners had a lower tax rate than the average U.S. household. Cornilles said fiddling with the tax rates is insufficient. Our tax system is broken and needs to be overhauled. A dizzying number of credits, deductions, and loopholes have created a maze where people send money on things designed to avoid taxes rather than generate economic growth. Cornilles said a majority of Americans paid no federal income tax, and that the full tax bill is shouldered by, people like you and me, and small and medium-sized companies like the ones in Oregon that dont have tens of millions of dollars to stuff the tax code with special interest perks. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
Did Not Support Surtax on the Wealthy In 2011, it was reported that when asked if he supported a proposed 5% surtax on household incomes in excess of $1 million annually in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said he did not. [Oregon Independent
Party, 2011]
Would Reduce Tax Rate on Income from Controlled Foreign Corporations In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said he supported the reduction of tax rates on income from controlled foreign corporations so that money could come back to the U.S. Such a reduction must be coupled with a requirement that these corporations spend the savings on job-creating activities. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Called for Elimination of Loopholes, Said Current Tax Code Promotes Tax Avoidance In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles called for the simplification of the tax code. I support eliminating the loopholes that encourage tax avoidance behavior and lowering rates to encourage job-producing activities. The tax code drives too many decisions, meaning individuals and companies are allocating resources based on a tax avoidance benefit rather than a job creation benefit, said Cornilles. He said he supported lowering rates to encourage job-producing activities. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
Called for the Creation of Equal Opportunity for All Americans to Share in National Prosperity In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that the government had the responsibility to enact appropriate laws and regulations regarding trade, tax rates, and social programs to ensure that all segments of our economy have an equal opportunity to share in (and create more) national prosperity. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Said Raising Taxes on the Wealthy was Not the Way to Reduce the Deficit
28
In 2011, it was reported in a candidate questionnaire that Cornilles said raising taxes on the rich was not a viable option to reduce the federal budget deficit. Raising taxes on the wealthy as has been proposed would increase taxes by less than $100 billion per year. So, instead of a $1.3 trillion deficit in 2011 we would have a $1.2 trillion deficit. That assumes that they wont simply shelter income in the hundreds of loopholes that riddle our complex tax code. The problem isnt that we are under-taxed; its that we have a broken tax system and our government continues to excessively borrow money that even the greatest tax on the wealthy cannot satisfy, said Cornilles. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Said Government Should Reduce Taxes to Increase Jobs In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that the government should reduce taxes in order to increase jobs in the United States. Simplify the overly complex tax code that too often favors the politically connected and mega-corporations over the middle-class and small businesses. Increase predictability in taxes and regulations so employers can feel more comfortable expanding and hiring, wrote Cornilles. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Promised to Overhaul Tax Code In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles promised to overhaul the federal tax code. [Oregon Public Broadcasting,
11/9/11]
Ideas on Decreasing the National Debt Included Simplification of the Tax Code In 2011, Cornilles said his ideas on decreasing the national debt include simplification of the tax code.
[Tualatin Times, 11/10/11]
Would Simplify the Tax Code by Lowering Rates and Eliminating Deductions and Credits In 2011, it was reported that in a radio interview, when asked what he would push for if elected to Congress, Cornilles said he would simplify the tax code by lowering rates and eliminating deductions and credits. Cornilles told the interviewer, Right now the tax code is so mumbo-jumbo people cant understand it, at least small business owners like myself cant understand it because it just continues to change and the changes are temporary If we simplify the tax code by lowering rates and eliminating these crazy loopholes and these deductions and creditsI think well see a greater fairness in the tax code. [Oregon
Public Radio, Think Out Loud, 4:14, 10/28/11]
Advocated for Reducing Tax Rates for Everyone In 2011, Cornilles said he would reduce tax rates for everyone, we also reduce rates for everybody.
[Westside Economic Alliance Candidate Forum, Part 2, 10/27/11]
29
In 2011, Cornilles said he would lower tax rates across the board. The tax code we have today in our country doesnt work. Because its not helping us to drive the economySo what we need to do is simplify the tax code so that everybody understands it. You simplify it, by first of all lowering the rates across the board, and also eliminating loopholes that only the mega corporations. He went on to say, Its not fair to small businesses in Oregon, where 60% of the jobs are created in this state. We need a tax code that small businesses can understand, thats predictable enough that they know how to move forward and invest, not just for the month ahead, but for the year and the decade ahead. Tax simplification is the key, its one of the driving things that I will be a part of in Congress. [League of
Women Voters, 10/20/11]
Favored Lowering Overall Tax Rates and Eliminating Tax Loopholes In 2011, Cornilles said he favored eliminating tax loopholes that only large corporations could use, but lowering tax rates overall. Cornilles said Politicians in Washington D.C. keep wanting to suggest a new fix, but their fixes are always temporary. And thats not how businesses work. They always want to look two years down the road, ten years down the road, and make plans accordingly. [Oregon Public Broadcasting,
10/26/11]
Advocated for Lowering Taxes for Millionaires In 2011, when asked if he would support raising revenue by taxing the rich like Warren Buffet. Cornilles said, Well, I do think, again I am kind of humored by Warren Buffet, I think hes found a nice way to use the tax code to make sure there are no more Warren Buffets. But I think quite simply we need to simplify the tax code. Its too complicated, there are too many loopholes that only the mega-corporations get to take advantage of. So if we simplify by eliminating the loopholes, by reducing the rates for all parties, people of all income brackets. [News Channel 8, KGW.com, 2:30, 10/15/11] Did Not Know Details of Herman Cains 9-9-9 Tax Plan In 2011, when asked if he would supported Herman Cains 9-9-9 Plan, Cornilles said, I, frankly, havent looked into it too much, I dont know that all the details are out there. Im really more concerned with simplifying the entire tax code. [News Channel 8, KGW.com, 3:19, 10/15/11] Said He Would Lower Tax Rates When Asked If He Would Support Taxing Millionaires When Cornilles was asked if the millionaires in the first district of Oregon should pay higher taxes he said, This whole issue about taxes is very simple to me. If we want to create greater economic activity and encourage people to be entrepreneurial and take risks and invest in America we need to lower all the tax rates and eliminate the crazy loopholes that we have created over the last 20 to 30 years. Thereby giving everyone a fair chance to be prosperous in this country. And by the way to biggest laugh in the hall so far tonight was from my wife when you called me a millionaire. [Jewish Federation Candidate Forum, Part 2,
1:12, 10/10/11]
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In 2011, Cornilles received the Oregonian endorsement in the primary and said he backed lower tax rates. He maintains that the economy is hurt by overregulation, and that the tax system needs lower rates and fewer loopholes. But he calls himself a different type of Oregon Republican, who grew up watching Hatfield, Packwood and Atiyeh, and has refused to commit to the no-tax-increase pledge that all but six of current U.S. House Republicans have signed. [Editorial, Oregonian, 10/15/11] Said He Opposed Raising Taxes In 2011, Cornilles said he opposed raising taxes despite the fact that he would not sign the no tax pledge. Im a principled person, he said. and just because I have principles doesnt mean that I wont listen to what the other side has to say. [KATU.com, 10/13/11] Would Have Voted Against Closing Loopholes, Medicaid Assistance, Education Funding In 2010, Cornilles said he would have voted against a bill extending increased Medicaid assistance and education funding to states by closing tax loopholes for multinational corporations. [Jayne Carroll Show,
KUIK 1360, 8/10/10]
The bill extended the increased federal matching payments of the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage program provided for under the economic stimulus law for an additional six months. It also provided $10 billion in supplemental appropriations for education to assist in hiring and retaining teachers and other public school employees. The $26.1 billion cost of the bill was offset in part by terminating increased food stamp benefits, provided by the stimulus law, and by closing use of the foreign tax credit by multinational corporations. Closing those loopholes would raise approximately $10 billion in revenue. [CQ Bill Analysis, 8/11/10] The bill passed, 247-161, and the President signed the bill into law on August 10, 2010. [HR 1586, Vote
#518, 8/10/10]
Criticized President Obamas Position on Continuing Payroll Tax In 2011, Cornilles criticized President Obamas plan to extend lowered payroll tax rates for employers and employees. Cornilles said, Another thing that the president mentioned which I think is something that should be discussed and debated in congress, he talked about putting a further holiday on the payroll tax. Now thats good because it puts more money in middle class pockets, but the problem with this is that just doing a temporary tax cut extension for another twelve months is just going to create a bigger problem at the end of 2012. Because at that point the tax, the payroll tax will shoot up considerably. Tax breaks will expire. They will sunset and now were going to have a massive tax hike at the end of 2012. Cornilles continued, We need to fix the tax code so that its predictable and this isnt just for a year or two. Its five and ten years out that will revitalize investment dollars in this country both domestically and dollars coming even coming from overseas to invest in our local communities and our infrastructure.
[Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 2, 3:45, Posted 9/23/11]
31
In 2010, Peggy Bodner with the Portland Examiner wrote that Cornilles believed that the corporate tax rate was hindering Americas ability to compete internationally, and wanted to lower the rate accordingly. [Portland Examiner, 5/18/10] Supported Extending Bush Tax Cuts In a 2010 debate, Cornilles supported extending the Bush administrations tax cuts for the wealthy. Cornilles said not renewing the tax cuts would be demonizing certain classes of our society and would discourage growth. [Oregonian, 9/11/10] Advocated for Simplifying Tax Code and Getting Rid of Regulations In 2011, on the Bill Post Radio Show Cornilles advocated for simplifying the tax code and eliminating regulations that strangled business. He said, They know with certainty whats around the economic corner because the tax code has been simplified because regulations have been brought into check and we keep those reasonable regulations that keep us safe, but we eliminate those that simply strangle business investment and entrepreneurship and risk taking. In 2011, on the Bill Post Radio Show Cornilles criticized the Presidents September job speech and said he would simplify the tax code and get rid of regulations, which strangle business. [The Bill Post Radio Show,
3:16, 9/9/11]
Said He Wouldnt Sign No Tax Pledge At a 2011 forum, Cornilles was attacked by fellow Republicans for his refusal to sign the no tax pledge. A conservative Republican must go to Washington, D.C., Michaels said. With all due respect, (Cornilles) lost by double digits to crazy Congressman Wu. He said he wouldnt pander to right-wing ideals to win votes. I dont sign pledges, he said. I take a pledge to the people of the district. Right now, that means a fairer tax system with lower rates across the board and elimination of loopholes, he said. [Hillsboro Argus, 10/11/11] Was Not on Board with Grover Norquists No-Tax Pledge In 2011, columnist Dave Lister wrote that Cornilles was not on board with Grover Norquists no-tax pledge. I havent signed it, he says. I dont let other people do my talking for me. My commitments are to those who live in my district, first and foremost. [Columnist, Dave Lister, Oregonian, 9/29/11] Previously Would Not Answer Whether He Would Sign No-Tax Increase Pledge In 2011, in response to the question of whether Cornilles would sign a no-tax increase pledge, he said that the tax code is overly complicated. We need a simpler, fairer tax structure, Cornilles said. [Oregonian, 9/21/11] Advocated for Simpler Tax Code
32
In 2011, Cornilles advocated for a simpler tax code and a fairer tax code. Cornilles said Here in Oregon especially, if we could have a simpler tax code, starting at the Federal level so that entrepreneurs and investors know what theyre going to be able to do with that investment, not just next year but 3 years from now, 5 years from now, 10 years from now, thats step number 1. And we certainly need a fairer tax code in this country. Theres no reason for example GE, which makes billions of dollars much of it overseas, should have zero tax liability in this country. Thats absolutely wrong. [Ann Samuelsons radio
show, Summary, Part 1, 7:20, Posted 9/23/11]
Said Tax Cuts Were Necessary to Create Jobs In 2011, on the Bill Post Radio Show Cornilles said the President knew tax cuts would get the economy going again. Cornilles said, its also interesting to me that at the end of last year President Obama pushed forward the extension of what they call the Bush tax cuts. Now why did he do that? Because he knew that tax cuts were necessary to get the economy going again. And what did he do last night? He talked about additional extension of other tax cuts, the pay roll tax. It seems very curious to me that this President, when push comes to shove recognizes that in fact lower taxes is what will stimulate economic activity in this country not hire taxes. In 2011, on the Bill Post Radio Show Cornilles said tax cuts were necessary to create jobs. He expressed support for the Bush tax cuts and said the President acknowledged that lower taxes would stimulate the economy. [The Bill Post Radio Show, 3:27, 9/9/11] Said the Tax Code Needed to Be Simplified; Criticized President for Proposing Temporary Changes In 2011, Cornilles said the tax code needed to be simplified and criticized the President for proposing temporary changes to the tax code. The tax code is so overly complicated Tom, that small business owners like myself we cant understand it from year to year because it continues to change. As recently as two weeks ago the president, you know, proposed new changes to the tax code, which would be temporary by the way, which is not the way businesses think. It shows the difference between a President who really has never run anything before as far as the private sector vs. those of us who have. You have to simplify the tax code. You have to make it fair theres no reason that the GEs of the world who make billions of dollars even overseas should get away paying zero in taxesthat needs to be fixed. [KAST2,
Radio Interview, 5:50, 9/22/11]
Tea Party
Would Certainly Side with the GOPBloc In 2012, the Daily Astorian reported that Cornilles tried to claim he was not ideologically driven by the tea party, but he would certainly side with the GOPbloc. He was also conservative on social issues such as abortion. [Editorial, Astorian, 1/10/12] Tried Portray Self as Independent after dubbing himself The Original Tea Party Candidate
33
In 2011, Politico reported that Cornilles tried to portray himself as a independent after dubbing himself the original tea party candidate. Democrats are also likely to jump on Cornilles for portraying himself as an independent after dubbing himself the original tea party candidate during his 2010 challenge to Rep. David Wu. [Blog, Politico,
10/26/11]
2011: Avoided Tea Party-Type Rhetoric In 2011, Cornilles avoided Tea Party-type rhetoric and said he would not vote in lockstep with his party. [Oregonian, 10/25/11] Branded Himself as the Original Tea Party Candidate In 2010, Cornilles branded himself as the original tea party candidate. [Politico, 11/14/11] Asked How Closely He Affiliated Self with Tea Party Said He Didnt Know What Tea Party Meant In 2011, Cornilles was asked how closely he affiliated himself with the Tea Party. He said, Well, I really dont know what we mean when we say Tea Party quite frankly. If we mean that the Tea Party is made up of individuals who decided to get up off the couch and actually hold their elected officials accountable, who decided to do more than just yell at the TV andbecome active and involved in the political process, then I think everybody who is paying attention right now is a part of that movement. [News Channel 8, KGW.com, 4:55, 10/15/11] Said He Wanted to Motivate Oregon Tea Party and AFP In 2011, Cornilles gave a speech at the Dorchester Founders event and said he wanted to motivate grassroots organizations like the Oregon Tea Party and AFP. Is our behavior motivating young or new Republicans to wholeheartedly join worthwhile, grassroots organizations like the Oregon Tea Party and AFP? Are we, the leaders of the Republican Party, acting in such a way that, as William F. Buckley said, the most conservative candidates that are electable would want to throw their life in the blender and run as an R? [The Dorchester Founders Speech by Rob Cornilles, Accessed 4/4/11] Said He Appreciated the Leadership of Oregon Tea Party At a 9/12 Project candidate forum in 2010, Cornilles said that he had been attending Tea Party meetings for months and months and months and I appreciate their passion and their leadership [9/12 Project
candidate forum, 3/18/10]
Cornilles Called Himself The Original Tea Party Candidate In 2010, Cornilles called himself the original Tea Party candidate because he had been running the longest of any candidate running in Oregon and epitomized Tea Party values. [Executive Club forum, 5/5/10]
Trade Issues
34
Editorial Had Jaw-Dropping Misapprehension on Oregon Port In 2012, the Daily Astorian pointed out that Cornilles in an editorial page column said the Port of Astoria was one of Oregons busiest ports - a jaw-dropping misapprehension. [Editorial, Astorian, 1/10/12] Supported SolarWorlds Trade Complaint to China Over Subsidizing Solar Panels In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles called for tougher and more equitable trade agreements, particularly with China, in order to increase American exports. Cornilles said he supported SolarWorlds trade complaint, which was based on the grounds that China is subsidizing its solar panel manufacturers illegally in an attempt to buy the world market. [News Yamhill
County, 12/13/11]
Backed Trade Agreements with South Korea and China In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles viewed making Oregon more competitive in the world market as an important part of creating a sound economy. Cornilles claimed he would be an aggressive promoter of Oregon workers, and would support accountable trade agreements with countries like South Korea and China. Our assets are the envy of districts across the United States, he said. If were allowed to compete, I know we will. [Yamhill County News-Register, 12/14/11] Pleased with Approval of South Korean, Colombian, and Panama Free-Trade Agreements In 2011, it was reported in a candidate questionnaire that Cornilles said he was pleased that Congress had approved the proposed free-trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia, and Panama. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
Said Free-Trade Deal with South Korea Would Directly Benefit Oregons 1st District In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said the free-trade deal with South Korea would particularly benefit Oregons First Congressional District because, South Korea is a huge market for Oregon goods already, but they have suffered tariffs placed on them by the Koreans. This deal eliminates those tariffs. These products include agriculture, electronic components, machinery and many other products. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Said Free-Trade Agreements Good for District, District Trade-Dependent In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that the free-trade agreements approved by Congress would prove beneficial for the First Congressional District of Oregon. Few districts in the country are as trade-dependent as the First District of Oregon. The Brookings Institution estimates that there are 268,000 jobs in the Portland region that rely on trade. These jobs tend to pay higher average wages than jobs in the same market that do not depend on international trade. So,
35
not only does international trade create sustainable jobs, it creates good-paying careers and a positive future for our communities, schools, and children, said Cornilles. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Cornilles: I will be a staunch advocate for sound economic policies, including free and fair trade In 2011, Cornilles said he would be a staunch advocate for free and fair trade. If elected to serve the 1st District, I will be a staunch advocate for sound economic policies, including free and fair tradeAs a business owner myself, I know that is how we reset Oregons 1st District on the path to prosperity. [Oped, Rob Cornilles, Daily Astorian, 10/26/11]
Attacked Democrats for Failing to Support Trade Agreements In 2011, Cornilles wrote an op-ed, where he accused the Democrats of failing to support trade agreements. He wrote, The economic future of Northwest Oregon hinges on our skilled workers, innovative companies and envious position along the Pacific Rim. [Op-ed, Rob Cornilles, Daily Astorian,
10/26/11]
Supported Free Trade Agreements with Asia and Loosening Regulations In 2011, Cornilles said he supported free trade agreements with Asia and other partners and loosing regulations. Cornilles had an event with small business owners and said if elected, he would support free trade agreements with Asia and other partners, and try to loosen the regulatory climate, which he says hinders small business. [OPB News, 10/11/11] Advocated for Authorization of Trade Agreements with Korea, Panama and Colombia In 2011, Cornilles advocated for authorization of trade agreements with Korea, Panama and Colombia. Lets go ahead and authorize these free trade agreements with Korea, with Panama, with Colombia. If we do this, this means jobs for Oregon business because wed be opening up more markets internationally. And that gives our companies in the first district a chance to spread there goods elsewhere and I would add, we have to make sure that we have a fair infrastructure here that provides the transportation of goods and services. But you cant just throw more money at the problem, weve already dedicated money to infrastructure build-up and that moneys either being wasted or its not even being used right now because of the hurdles even the government has to go through to see a project to fruition.
[KAST2, Radio Interview, 8:02, Posted 9/22/11]
Wanted to Wheel-and-Deal with China In endorsing Wu in 2010, the Pamplin Media Group wondered why voters should elect someone who wants to wheel-and-deal with the Peoples Republic. The paper reported that Cornilles argued that his support from Nikes Phil Knight and Columbia Sportwears Tim Boyle show that he would work with job creators to sort out their issues with China and help them grow economic output. [Pamplin Media Group, Forest Grove News-Times, 10/13/10] Oregon Lost 47,900 Jobs to China; Experienced More Job Losses than All But Three States
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In 2011, a think tank calculated that Oregon lost 47,900 jobs since China was admitted to the World Trade Organization in 2001. Oregon experienced more job losses to China than all but three other states. Oregons Silicon Forest, the Washington County technology belt between Beaverton and Hillsboro, has been among the hardest-hit areas in the nation. The report read as a result of Chinas currency manipulation and other trade distorting practices, including extensive subsidies, legal and illegal barriers to imports, dumping and suppression of wages and labor rights, the envisioned flow of U.S. exports to China did not occur. [Portland Tribune, 9/20/11] Cornilles Accused of Selling Out Oregon Jobs Due to Position on Trade In 2010, Cornilles criticized his opponent Wu for his obstructionist view on trade. Wu criticized Cornilles for his endorsement from Nike founder and accused him of selling out on Oregon jobs. What would you sell out first -- our jobs or our values? Wu asked his challenger. [The Sun, 10/27/10] Cornilles and Wu Were at Odds Over Trade Relations with China In 2011, it was reported that Cornilles was at odds with Wu over trade relations with China. Nike supported expanding trade relations and Nike co-founder and chairman Phil Knight personally endorsed Cornilles, and the Republican received contributions from the companys political action committee and a handful of its top executives. Wu didnt get a dime from Nike. [Politico.com,
4/26/11]
Wanted to Wheel-and-Deal with China. The Forest Grove News-Times wondered why voters should elect someone who wants to wheel-and-deal with the Peoples Republic. The paper reported that Cornilles argued that his support from prominent employers showed that he would work with job creators to sort out their issues with China and help them grow economic output. [Editorial, Forest Grove News-Times, 10/13/10] Cornilles Favored Free Trade In 2011, Cornilles wrote on his website that he favored free trade agreements and policies that expand markets. [Cornilles for Congress, accessed 9/21/11]
Transportation Issues
Would Fight for Funding for Columbia River Crossing In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that he would fight for funding for the Columbia River Crossing, deeming the project necessary to make Oregons First District economically competitive. He said We need to replace the Eisenhower-era bridge to help update our infrastructurebut the waste so far has been inexcusable and reinforces the skepticism people feel towards government. [Oregon
Independent Party, 2011]
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In 2011, it was reported in a candidate questionnaire that Cornilles said subsidies from the federal government for high-speed rail and Amtrak service should be limited. Such subsidies should be reviewed and approved on a case-by-case basis only where they make sense from a geographic location standpoint as well as considerations such as demand, other nearby infrastructure and transportation options, etc, said Cornilles. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Recognized Need for Columbia River Crossing In 2011, columnist Dave Lister wrote that Cornilles recognized the need for the Columbia River Crossing. He was however, disappointed that six years and $150 million were wasted. If we are to grow this economy, Cornilles, we have to have solid infrastructure. [Columnist, Dave Lister, Oregonian, 9/29/11] Cornilles Backed $3 Billion Columbia River Project In 2011, Rob Cornilles backed the $3 billion project to replace the Interstate 5 bridge over the Columbia River. He agreed with the three leading Democratic candidates and said the need for the project was clear. Cornilles complained that the Washington and Oregon departments of transportation have spent $130 million on planning but havent turned a shovel of dirt yet. The 1st District for too many years has not had a real strong voice in Congress to help us build the infrastructure needed in the region, Cornilles said. [Oregonian, 9/17/11] Said He Would Make Sure Columbia River Crossing Project was Done Affordably In 2011, Rob Cornilles agreed the Columbia River Crossing project an expanded Interstate 5 bridge to connect Portland and Vancouver, Wash., should go forward. Cornilles said We have to improve our infrastructureWeve spent $147 million and six years on the project which hasnt even produced a shovel full of dirt. I will make sure it gets done and gets done affordably.
[Beaverton Valley Times, 9/22/11]
Columbia River Crossing Project Depended Upon Federal Funding In 2011, according to the Columbia River Crossing website the project was expected to receive federal funding. The CRC project is expected to receive funding from three major sources: the federal government, the states of Washington and Oregon and tolling the I-5 bridge. Each funding source is expected to provide about a third of the total construction funds. [Columbia River
Crossing.org, accessed 9/19/11]
Veterans Issues
Called for Providing Veterans with Job Access, Transition Support, and Best Health Care In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, Cornilles said that the government needed to care for our returning troops by providing them, access to good jobs, transition training, and the best possible health care, including mental health care. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011]
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Advocated for Troop Draw Down in Iraq In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, when asked how many American troops should be stationed in Iraq Cornilles said as of January 2012 there should be only enough to secure our safe and efficient withdrawal. And as of January 2013 there should be only a small security contingent as the US embassy. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Would Not Comment on How Many Troops Should Be Stationed in Afghanistan In 2011, it was reported that in a candidate questionnaire, when asked how many American troops should be stationed in Afghanistan in the next three years, Cornilles refused to state his opinion, saying, We want our troops home as quickly as possible. Absent more input from military commanders, it would be irresponsible of me to provide a specific number on what the size of the military force should be in Afghanistan. [Oregon Independent Party, 2011] Supported Obamas Proposed Job Programs for Veterans In a 2011, Cornilles was asked to comment on President Obamas job speech in a radio interview. Cornilles said he agreed with the President on providing jobs and job training for veterans. First of all he spoke very well about how we need to make sure we take care of our returning veterans, that they have job opportunities when they return homeI believe strongly that they need to go from helmet to hard hat quickly and whether it be through training programs. Whether it be through relationships we build within the corporate community that gives them reason and incentive to hire our veterans, they have sacrificed greatly, they and their families, they need to be taken care of. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 2, 0:14, Posted 9/23/11]
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Said He was a Huge Believer in Community Health Centers Like Virginia Garcia In 2011, Cornilles said he was a huge believer in the community health centers like Virginia Garcia. Im also on the board of Virginia Garcia Memorial Foundation. You probably know Virginia Garcia, its a community health center in fact there are six almost seven clinics in Washington and Yamhill counties. Im on that organizations board because I believe strongly that healthcare is a vital interest in our community and healthcare coming out of Washington is not fixing our problem. But rather community health centers are just that, theyre opportunities locally to fix national problems. And Im a huge believer in what were doing at Virginia Garcia, to lend healthcare, not health insurance, but healthcare to those who are either unemployed or perhaps with low income or worse yet no income. Thats something I care deeply about. [Westside Economic Alliance Candidate Forum, Part 2, 20:42, 10/27/11] Accused of Possibly Abetting Illegal Immigrants by Supporting Health Care Facility In 2011, Cornilles gave a speech at the Dorchester Founders event and defended himself against charges that he was aiding an organization possibly abetting illegal immigrants. Recently I learned that my own naming to the Board of Directors for a health care facility in Washington County actually caused a few in our Party distress and consternation. The charge is that Im aiding a liberal organization and possibly abetting illegal immigrants. Why is it commendable to join a liberal school board, for example, but illadvised to exercise influence over an organization that serves needy children who would otherwise fill up our emergency rooms? [The Dorchester Founders Speech by Rob Cornilles, Accessed 4/4/11] Touted Involvement in Community Health Center Funded In Part Through Medicaid In 2011, Cornilles said the community health center he worked with, the Virginia Garcia Community Health Centers was funded in part through Medicaid. Cornilles said, Ive been fortunate to be involved in a variety of organizations on boards for example, Im on the board of the Special Olympics of Oregon, Im on the board of the Oregon League Minority Voters as well as Virginia Garcia Memorial Foundation. And for those listeners who do not know what Virginia Garcia is, its a community health center in fact there are six clinic in Washington and Yamhill counties that we oversee and those clinics are for people of low or no income who need healthcare and they go to one of the Virginia Garcia clinics and we provide that healthcare for themAlmost 50% of the costs are provided actually by the patients. They work out a payment plan and the payment plan is still less than what it would be if they were buying insurance on a monthly basis. He went on to say And the other half comes from Medicaid and also comes from private donations and corporate donations. And Community health centers are just a terrific tool in fact a great solution for the health care problems we have today. [Ann Samuelsons radio show, Part 1, 2:40, Posted 9/23/11]
Womens Issues
Described Busted Dot-Coms as the Young Girl the Day After the Prom In 2001, Cornilles described the bust of dot-coms for sports teams as them looking like the young girl the day after the prom.
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Theres more room for other industries to step in and build alliances. Whereas, some industries were squeezed out when the dot-coms were sexy, now the dot-coms kind of look like the young girl the day after the prom, said Cornilles. [Business Journal, 5/11/01] Gave Presentation on, Everything I Need to Know about Business I Learned from Dating In 2006, Cornilles gave a presentation to students in Purdue Universitys Krannert School of Management called Everything I Need to Know about Business I Learned from Dating. He talked about his strategies, presenting, listening and solving, opening, rather than closing, and empathic listening. [Journal
and Courier, 3/25/06]
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