http://www.beraforcongress.com en Copyright 2012 2012-02-01T19:45:49+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-outraises-lungren-for-tenth-straight-quarter/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-outraises-lungren-for-tenth-straight-quarter/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJanuary 12, 2011Contact: Josh Wolf(916) 544-3273josh@beraforcongress.com Dr. Ami Bera raises $1,103,157 for cycle as he prepares for California’s 7th Congressional district challenge. ELK GROVE, CALIFORNIA – On January 31, the final day of the fourth quarter reporting period, Congressman Dan Lungren released underwhelming fundraising numbers, yet again outraised by up-and-coming challenger Dr. Ami Bera. 2012-02-01T18:45:49+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-earns-place-in-prestigious-dccc-red-to-blue-program/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-earns-place-in-prestigious-dccc-red-to-blue-program/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJanuary 12, 2011Contact: Josh Wolf(916) 544-3273josh@beraforcongress.com Bera campaign highlighted as one of the most competitive campaigns nationally ELK GROVE, CALIFORNIA –  Dr. Ami Bera (CA-7) announced today that he earned a place on the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s highly prestigious Red-to-Blue program.  Having recently announced raising over $1.1 million in the year 2011, Dr. Bera is extremely well positioned to unseat career politician Congressman Dan Lungren.  Dr. Bera is one of three candidates in California named to Red-to-Blue and one of only 18 named nationwide. 2012-01-18T18:56:43+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/momentum-builds-in-beras-bid-for-californias-new-7th-congressional-district/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/momentum-builds-in-beras-bid-for-californias-new-7th-congressional-district/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJanuary 12, 2011Contact: Josh Wolf(916) 544-3273josh@beraforcongress.com Dr. Ami Bera raises $1,103,157 for cycle as he prepares for California’s 7th Congressional district challenge.  ELK GROVE, CALIFORNIA –  The  Bera for Congress campaign unveiled its fundraising totals in advance of the 4th quarter filing period.  In one year, Bera has raised $1,103,157, with a cash on hand total of $918,873.  Dr. Bera is running in California’s new 7th Congressional District, setting up a highly anticipated rematch with Republican Congressman Dan Lungren.  In the last three months Bera raised $256,326.  Through the end of the third quarter, Dr. Bera had outraised the embattled Lungren nine consecutive fundraising quarters in a row.  In addition, Dr. Bera received over 2,300 contributions from individuals, of which over 70% were under $100. 2012-01-12T17:51:19+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/overwhelmingsupportin2011/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/overwhelmingsupportin2011/ Congressional challenger Dr. Ami Bera raises $857,000 this cycle as he prepares for his race for California’s 7th Congressional district ELK GROVE, CALIFORNIA - Today, Dr. Ami Bera announced that he raised $325,000 in the important third quarter filing period, bringing his total raised for the cycle to $857,000, with a cash on hand total of $708,000. Dr. Bera is running in California’s new 7th Congressional district, setting up a highly anticipated rematch with embattled Republican Congressman Dan Lungren. Through the end of the second quarter, Dr. Bera had outraised Lungren eight consecutive fundraising quarters in a row. In addition, Dr. Bera has raised over 85% from individual donors in California, has received over 1,500 individual contributions, of which 70% were under $100, showing significant grassroots support for the campaign. “I am extremely humbled by the thousands of individuals who have supported my candidacy. The fact that in just a few short months so many individuals have contributed to our 2012 race suggests how frustrated people are with Dan Lungren and the dysfunction they see in Washington, DC. In Congress, I will work to end the partisan gridlock and provide a voice for the people of California’s 7th Congressional district,” said Dr. Bera. 2011-10-12T15:02:27+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/statementonobl/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/statementonobl/ As an American, today is a day to reflect on the sacrifices of our brave military and intelligence personnel. I commend the President on his determination to follow through on his promise to bring this terrorist to justice. Good people everywhere still mourn for the loss of life inflicted by senseless acts of terrorism. Although this closes one chapter on the horrific events of that Tuesday morning in September, it renews our determination that evil people will not be allowed safe haven to plot atrocities. 2011-05-02T18:48:57+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/strong-showing-for-dr.-ami-bera-highlights-depth-of-community-support1/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/strong-showing-for-dr.-ami-bera-highlights-depth-of-community-support1/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 13, 2011Contact: Ben Ghosh(916) 583-8655press@beraforcongress.com Strong Showing for Dr. Ami Bera Highlights Depth of Community Support   Bera for Congress previews its 1st quarter numbers with a strong show of support and momentum Elk Grove, CA—One of the most hotly contested Congressional challengers in the nation in 2010—Dr. Ami Bera (CA-03)—is picking up right where he left off.  Bera released a preview of his FEC first quarter financial numbers today, announcing over $230,000 raised. “Since I announced that I am running again in 2012, the broad outpouring of community support for our Congressional Campaign has been incredible,” said Bera. “It’s clear to me that the community is frustrated with what’s going on in Washington DC, and is looking for new representation that will be a voice for the forgotten middle class.” Perhaps more impressive than the dollar figure are some of the specifics of Dr. Bera’s filing, including that: 2011-04-14T15:06:49+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/lungren-says-he-wants-to-privatize-social-security...again1/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/lungren-says-he-wants-to-privatize-social-security...again1/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 29, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com LUNGREN SAYS HE WANTS TO PRIVATIZE SOCIAL SECURITY...AGAIN!ELK GROVE, CA -- Today during Congressman Lungren's appearance on KTKZ's The Capital Hour With Eric Hogue, Lungren said yet again that he favored privatizing Social Security. Lungren's quote: "I have said that we should entertain the possibility that they might be allowed to take a portion of the amount that they have in their account, that is that is credited to them, and allow them to be involved in investments." During his radio debate with Dr. Bera last week, Dan Lungren reiterated his support for privatization, but, in a bizarre disregard for the facts, stated "I would challenge Dr. Bera to give one instance of where I’ve ever said I would privatize Social Security, it does not exist.”Dr. Ami Bera responded by releasing this web video of Dan Lungren advocating for privatization of Social Security, and lying to senior citizens about it. 2010-10-29T20:38:14+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/lungren-ads-violate-fec-law/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/lungren-ads-violate-fec-law/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 27, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.comLUNGREN ADS VIOLATE FEC LAWAdvertisements fail to include required legal disclaimer, Lungren continues to think he's above the lawELK GROVE, CA -- In yet another example of Dan Lungren's characteristic arrogance, Lungren's television advertisements "fear," "clone," and "who is Ami Bera" all violate Federal Election Commission law.  Lungren's ads should be taken off the air, recut and not be eligible for non-political rates for any time the ads have already run. The ads fail to include the correct written disclaimer required of all ads authorized by federal candidates. Specifically, the ads violate 11C.F.R § 110.11(c)(3), requiring that all ads contain a written statement at the end of an ad identifying the candidate and stating that the candidate approved the message. To comply, the disclaimer must appear at the end of the ad; in letters equal to or greater than four percent of the vertical picture height; for at least four seconds; and with a reasonable degree of color contrast. The Lungren ads fail to include a statement that complies with these requirements. 2010-10-28T15:34:22+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dan-lungren-lies-to-seniors/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dan-lungren-lies-to-seniors/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 26, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com DAN LUNGREN LIES TO SENIORSCongressman reiterates support for Social Security privatization in live radio debate…then he lies. Again.ELK GROVE, CA -- Today, Dan Lungren showed a callous disregard for the facts as he continued to lie to voters about his plan to privatize Social Security. In a live radio debate between Dr. Ami Bera and Dan Lungren, the Congressman reiterated his plans to privatize Social Security, and then challenged Dr. Bera to find one instance where he declared support for privatization, stating, “I would challenge Dr. Bera to give one instance of where I’ve ever said I would privatize Social Security, it does not exist.”We beg to differ: WATCH DAN LUNGREN LYING TO SENIORS ABOUT PRIVATIZING SOCIAL SECURITY 2010-10-26T18:07:44+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/congressman-john-garamendi-endorses-dr.-ami-bera/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/congressman-john-garamendi-endorses-dr.-ami-bera/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 22, 2010  Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com CONGRESSMAN JOHN GARAMENDI ENDORSES DR. AMI BERA  ELK GROVE, CA -- Congressman John Garamendi, who represents California's 10th Congressional District, released a web video in support of Ami Bera for Congress.  "You have a chance to elect Ami Bera, a physician, to Congress -- we really need that kind of knowledge, that kind of expertise in the halls of Congress," said Congressman Garamendi. "I know he is determined to represent you in a way that not only protects and provides the kind of government that will be watching out for your best interest, he also is determined to bring back the jobs that we need. He will be part our effort to once again make it in America. I hope you'll vote for Ami Bera in the upcoming election. He's a physician, he's a good person, and he is dedicated to public service."  WATCH CONGRESSMAN GARAMENDI ENDORSING DR. AMI BERA HERE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 22, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com CONGRESSMAN JOHN GARAMENDI ENDORSES DR. AMI BERA   ELK GROVE, CA -- Congressman John Garamendi, who represents California's 10th Congressional District, released a web video in support of Ami Bera for Congress.  "You have a chance to elect Ami Bera, a physician, to Congress -- we really need that kind of knowledge, that kind of expertise in the halls of Congress," said Congressman Garamendi. "I know he is determined to represent you in a way that not only protects and provides the kind of government that will be watching out for your best interest, he also is determined to bring back the jobs that we need. He will be part our effort to once again make it in America. I hope you'll vote for Ami Bera in the upcoming election. He's a physician, he's a good person, and he is dedicated to public service."  WATCH CONGRESSMAN GARAMENDI ENDORSING DR. AMI BERA HERE     2010-10-22T19:59:09+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/ask-lungren/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/ask-lungren/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 20, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com  ASK DAN LUNGREN: DO YOU STAND FOR TRANSPARENCY OR KARL ROVE? ELK GROVE, CA -- Last week, Karl Rove's billionaire slush fund, American Crossroads, placed a $690,000 television buy to bail out their best investment: Dan Lungren. No surprise, since Lungren paved the way for Karl Rove's money laundering scheme by opposing transparency in campaign finance reporting.    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 20, 2010  Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com  ASK DAN LUNGREN: DO YOU STAND FOR TRANSPARENCY OR KARL ROVE? ELK GROVE, CA -- Last week, Karl Rove's billionaire slush fund, American Crossroads, placed a $690,000 television buy to bail out their best investment: Dan Lungren. No surprise, since Lungren paved the way for Karl Rove's money laundering scheme by opposing transparency in campaign finance reporting.  Dan Lungren voted against the DISCLOSE Act to require transparency in corporate campaign spending, and applauded the controversial Citizens United Supreme Court decision on the floor of the House. Even worse, Lungren has taken $15,000 from Citizens United, and even appeared in an incendiary Citizens United film alongside Ann Coulter.  The Citizens United decision overturned decades of campaign finance law, allowing corporations to spend unlimited amounts of money on campaign activities. The decision also paved the way for Rove's organization, American Crossroads, to launder money from Big Oil billionaires, who are actively seeking the anonymity provided by new independent groups in the post-Citizens United world. In a staggering display of hypocrisy, Lungren recently suggested he supported greater reporting requirements on individual donations.  "Big Oil billionaires are laundering hundreds of thousands of dollars through Karl Rove's shadowy front group in order to save their best investment -- Dan Lungren," said Lucinda Guinn, Bera for Congress campaign manager. "Dan Lungren says he supports campaign transparency -- now he has a choice: denounce Rove and the shadowy billionaires, or continue to protect limitless undisclosed contributions from corporations who are polluting our democracy."  READ THE FACTS ABOUT DAN LUNGREN, KARL ROVE AND AMERICAN CROSSROADS HERE. ###     2010-10-22T01:46:20+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/the-facts-about-karl-roves-misleading-ad/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/the-facts-about-karl-roves-misleading-ad/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 19, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.comTHE FACTS ABOUT KARL ROVE'S MISLEADING ADAmerican Crossroads and Karl Rove Ignore the Facts to Protect Their Best Investment -- Dan LungrenELK GROVE, CA -- Worried about protecting a vulnerable career politician, last week Dan Lungren and Karl Rove’s corporate slush fund began airing another false ad against Ami Bera.  Imagine that.  Here are the facts: 2010-10-19T16:38:03+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dan-lungren-stays-silent-while-karl-rove-and-his-shadowy-allies-mislead-vot/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dan-lungren-stays-silent-while-karl-rove-and-his-shadowy-allies-mislead-vot/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 18, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com DAN LUNGREN STAYS SILENT WHILE KARL ROVE AND SHADOWY ALLIES MISLEAD VOTERSDoes Lungren stand with Karl Rove and the billionaires or California voters? ELK GROVE, CA -- Today, the Sacramento Bee called on Dan Lungren to break his silence and take on the Karl Rove's shadowy front group, American Crossroads. And while the Big Oil billionaires rush to save their best investment, Lungren's continued silence raises a serious question that demands a clear answer: does Lungren stand with Karl Rove and the billionaire oil men, or California voters? Dan Lungren has refused to denounce the misleading ads being aired by Karl Rove and his shadowy front group, American Crossroads. The organization, a slush fund for Big Oil billionaires, allows Lungren's corporate allies to avoid transparency while laundering their campaign contributions through Karl Rove. "Dan Lungren is a career politician who has spent the last 23 years fighting for the corporate special interests who line his pockets," said Lucinda Guinn, Bera for Congress campaign manager. "Now he has a choice: denounce Karl Rove and the Big Oil billionaires, or admit he's in the pocket of corporate special interests who are bankrupting our economy and corrupting our government."While Lungren remains silent, his record speaks for itself. Dan Lungren has taken $84,950 from oil and gas companies and voted to give Big Oil $2.6 billion in tax breaks. Lungren has also taken $15,000 from Citizens United, applauded the Supreme Court Citizens United decision which allowed corporations to spend unlimited money on campaign activities, and is even starring in an incendiary Citizens United film alongside Ann Coulter. American Crossroads is a shadowy front group founded by Karl Rove, which is funded almost exclusively by four billionaires, including two Texas Big Oil executives. The organization launders money from nefarious mega-corporations, who are actively seeking the anonymity provided by new independent groups in the post-Citizens United World. READ THE FACTS ABOUT DAN LUNGREN, BIG OIL AND AMERICAN CROSSROADS HERE.### 2010-10-18T22:06:12+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/what-karl-rove-and-dan-lungren-dont-want-you-to-know/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/what-karl-rove-and-dan-lungren-dont-want-you-to-know/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 15, 2010  Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com WHAT KARL ROVE AND DAN LUNGREN DON'T WANT YOU TO KNOW Big Oil, Wall Street and Karl Rove Put Their Money on Lungren ELK GROVE, CA -- Today, Big Oil joined with Wall Street to rescue one of their staunchest allies: Dan Lungren. Under the direction of Karl Rove's shadowy organization American Crossroads, these two corporate special interests began pouring thousands of hidden dollars into the Sacramento media market, hoping to protect one of their greatest investments in Congress.  "Karl Rove, Big Oil and Wall Street lining up behind Dan Lungren confirms what voters already know -- Lungren is looking out for himself and his corporate campaign contributors, not middle class families," said Lucinda Guinn, Bera for Congress campaign manager. "Lungren opposes campaign transparency, and now his friends can launder their contributions through Karl Rove -- if he wants to fight for corporations instead of Californians he should go back to lobbying for Bear Stearns."  CLICK HERE TO READ THE FACTS ABOUT DAN LUNGREN AND AMERICAN CROSSROADS  American Crossroads is funded and operated almost exclusively by Wall Street special interests, corporate lobbyists, and Big Oil executives -- including a former Enron lobbyist, the owner of the financial investment giant AIG, and the manager of one of the world's largest hedge funds. As of June, 97% of the money American Crossroads raised came from four billionaires, including two oil and gas billionaires.  For his part, Dan Lungren has taken over $84,000 from the oil and gas industry, over $248,000 from the financial industry, and in return is doing their bidding in Congress -- voting in favor of a $2.6 billion tax break for Big Oil and against limits on executive compensation for bailed out banks.  Even more egregious, by voting against the DISCLOSE Act and supporting the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, Dan Lungren supported the very same loopholes being exploited by Karl Rove and American Crossroads to hide the identity of their donors (CLICK HERE TO READ THE FACT SHEET).   ### FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 15, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com WHAT KARL ROVE AND DAN LUNGREN DON'T WANT YOU TO KNOW  Big Oil, Wall Street and Karl Rove Put Their Money on Lungren  ELK GROVE, CA -- Today, Big Oil joined with Wall Street to rescue one of their staunchest allies: Dan Lungren. Under the direction of Karl Rove's shadowy organization American Crossroads, these two corporate special interests began pouring thousands of hidden dollars into the Sacramento media market, hoping to protect one of their greatest investments in Congress.  "Karl Rove, Big Oil and Wall Street lining up behind Dan Lungren confirms what voters already know -- Lungren is looking out for himself and his corporate campaign contributors, not middle class families," said Lucinda Guinn, Bera for Congress campaign manager. "Lungren opposes campaign transparency, and now his friends can launder their contributions through Karl Rove -- if he wants to fight for corporations instead of Californians he should go back to lobbying for Bear Stearns."  CLICK HERE TO READ THE FACTS ABOUT DAN LUNGREN AND AMERICAN CROSSROADS  American Crossroads is funded and operated almost exclusively by Wall Street special interests, corporate lobbyists, and Big Oil executives -- including a former Enron lobbyist, the owner of the financial investment giant AIG, and the manager of one of the world's largest hedge funds. As of June, 97% of the money American Crossroads raised came from four billionaires, including two oil and gas billionaires. For his part, Dan Lungren has taken over $84,000 from the oil and gas industry, over $248,000 from the financial industry, and in return is doing their bidding in Congress -- voting in favor of a $2.6 billion tax break for Big Oil and against limits on executive compensation for bailed out banks.  Even more egregious, by voting against the DISCLOSE Act and supporting the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, Dan Lungren supported the very same loopholes being exploited by Karl Rove and American Crossroads to hide the identity of their donors (CLICK HERE TO READ THE FACT SHEET).   ###     2010-10-17T22:31:36+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-raises-more-than-550000-in-third-quarter/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-raises-more-than-550000-in-third-quarter/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 6, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.comBERA RAISES MORE THAN $550,000 IN THIRD QUARTERBera for Congress previews its third quarter financial numbers, raising more than $550,000 this quarter, and over $2.13 million to dateElk Grove, CA -- Bera for Congress released a preview of third quarter financial reports today, announcing over $2.13 million raised to date.  Dr. Ami Bera raised over $550,000 since the last quarterly FEC report."Our campaign continues to gain momentum thanks to our grassroots support,” said Bera’s campaign manager, Lucinda Guinn.  “Over 3,300 individuals have given to our campaign, while our opponent has taken hundreds of thousands of dollars from corporate special interests and done their bidding in Congress.  Northern Californians are tired of politics as usual, Ami Bera will fight for the kind of change we need.”Some highlights include: Over 3,329 individuals have donated to the campaign since its start. 90% of this quarter’s contributors are from California. This quarter, 1,425 donations came from the Sacramento region, signifying that Bera’s grassroots donor base is growing stronger. The FEC report for the third financial quarter, which runs July 1, 2010 through September 30, 2010, will be filed in the coming days. The deadline to file is October 15, 2010.### 2010-10-06T16:07:10+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/aloha-lungren-new-ad-exposes-lungrens-exploitation-of-ethics-loophole/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/aloha-lungren-new-ad-exposes-lungrens-exploitation-of-ethics-loophole/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 4, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.comALOHA LUNGRENNew ad exposes Lungren's exploitation of ethics loophole, took lobbyist funded trip to HawaiiELK GROVE, CA -- Today Bera for Congress unveiled a new ad exposing Dan Lungren’s exploitation of an ethics loophole to take a free, first class trip to Hawaii, courtesy of aviation lobbyists.  Lungren was one of the first Representatives to find and exploit this loophole in newly passed ethics laws. At a time when middle class Californians are struggling, it’s clear that Dan Lungren is looking out for only one person: Dan Lungren. “This is a pattern of behavior with Lungren -- ignoring the rules and looking out for himself,” said Lucinda Guinn, Bera for Congress campaign manager. “From voting himself pay raises, to spiking his own pension, to lobbyist-funded-luxury trips, Lungren has shown northern Californians over and over again that he’s not fighting for the kind of change we need.” Earlier this year the Bera Campaign released LoopholeLungren.com, highlighting Lungren’s trip to Hawaii and detailing the copious amount of money Lungren has accepted from corporate special interests and lobbyists. This new ad will be accompanied by a substantial online advertising campaign, further driving internet traffic to LoopholeLungren.com.WATCH THE AD HERE Exploiting this ethics loophole is only one example of Lungren's self-serving behavior. "While California families are struggling, Dan Lungren voted against extending unemployment benefits and against equal pay for equal work," said Guinn. "On the other hand, Lungren has no problem accepting fancy trips and hundreds of thousands of dollars from corporate special interests, and then doing their bidding in Congress."### 2010-10-04T21:32:23+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-bera-releases-petition-calling-on-lungren-to-return-spiked-pension-mone/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-bera-releases-petition-calling-on-lungren-to-return-spiked-pension-mone/ FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 28, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com DR. AMI BERA RELEASES PETITION CALLING ON LUNGREN TO RETURN SPIKED PENSION MONEY Over 1,000 online signatures, Californians demand Lungren return the money ELK GROVE, CA -- On the heels of a new ad featuring Californians condemning Dan Lungren's pension spiking, Bera for Congress released an online petition urging Lungren to return the money he has received from his spiked pension to the state of California, and decline any future spiked dollars he plans to receive. Over 1,000 individuals have already signed the petition. "At a time when California is struggling to pay for our teachers and firefighters, Lungren's spiked pension is costing our state too much," said Diane Campbell of Elk Grove. "I signed the petition because we can't afford career politicians like Dan Lungren -- it's clear he's only looking out for himself." "People are hurting everywhere, but Dan Lungren learned how to manipulate the system," said Mary Beth Kropp from Elk Grove. "I don't think he thinks the rules do apply to him." By accepting a 25 percent pay raise in his final month as attorney general, Lungren spiked the amount of money he receives every year from the state of California, increasing his yearly pension payouts by $11,000. Lungren's actions contrast with several Republican lawmakers, such as Assemblymen George House (R-Hughson) and Rico Oller (R-San Andreas), both of whom rejected the pay spike. Dr. Bera has pledged that he will turn down any pay raises as long as there is a federal budget deficit. A doctor and former Associate Dean of Admissions at UC Davis, Bera has gained tremendous support for his grassroots campaign. Nationally acknowledged as one of the top challenger races in the country, Dr. Bera has achieved enormous fundraising success, secured decisive endorsements, and earned widespread support. Bera, 45, is a lifelong Californian whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from India over 50 years ago. He and his wife, Dr. Janine Bera, have been residents of Elk Grove, California for over 15 years and have a 12-year old daughter, Sydra. ### 2010-09-28T21:30:24+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-releases-first-ad/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-releases-first-ad/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 14, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com  DR. BERA RELEASES FIRST TV AD Spot highlights Lungren’s record of double dipping and pension spiking   ELK GROVE, CA – Today Bera for Congress released its first television ad highlighting Dan Lungren's tarnished ethical record and history of self-serving behavior. The spot, called “Spiked,” details how Lungren has been double dipping into taxpayer money to fund his salary and lavish pension. “Californians deserve to know who Lungren has been looking out for during his 30-year political career: himself,” said Lucinda Guinn, Bera’s campaign manager.  “At a time when California families are struggling to get by and unemployment is soaring, Lungren opposed emergency unemployment benefits but went right ahead and dipped into two taxpayer funds for personal gain.” Lungren accepted a 25% pay raise in his last month in office as attorney general. The pay spike increased his state pension by over $11,000 dollars per year. Since that time Lungren has continued to support and accept pay raises while in Congress.  WATCH THE AD “SPIKED” TRANSCRIPT Narrator: The LA Times says Dan Lungren is plagued by ethics issues. And criticized for being a Washington insider. There’s more...listen to this: TV Announcer: The former California attorney general spiked his state pension just before leaving office. Narrator: Double dipping …nearly 230-thousand dollars a year with taxpayer funds. And if that wasn’t enough…In Congress, Lungren supported raising his pay six times. Dan Lungren...Spiking his pension, raising his pay and “plagued by ethics issues.” Heard Enough?  Dr. Bera: I’m Ami Bera and I approve this message.      The ad will begin running today on broadcast in the Sacramento media market. This is the first television advertisement in the race between Dr. Ami Bera and Dan Lungren.  A doctor and former Associate Dean of Admissions at UC Davis, Bera has gained tremendous support for his grassroots campaign. Nationally acknowledged as one of the top challenger races in the country, Dr. Bera has achieved enormous fundraising success, secured decisive endorsements, and earned widespread support.  Bera, 45, is a lifelong Californian whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from India over 50 years ago. He and his wife, Dr. Janine Bera, have been residents of Elk Grove, California for over 15 years and have a 12-year old daughter, Sydra. ### FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESeptember 14, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com    DR. BERA RELEASES FIRST TV ADSpot highlights Lungren’s record of double dipping and pension spiking ELK GROVE, CA – Today Bera for Congress released its first television ad highlighting Dan Lungren's tarnished ethical record and history of self-serving behavior. The spot, called “Spiked,” details how Lungren has been double dipping into taxpayer money to fund his salary and lavish pension.   “Californians deserve to know who Lungren has been looking out for during his 30-year political career: himself,” said Lucinda Guinn, Bera’s campaign manager.  “At a time when California families are struggling to get by and unemployment is soaring, Lungren opposed emergency unemployment benefits but went right ahead and dipped into two taxpayer funds for personal gain.”   Lungren accepted a 25% pay raise in his last month in office as attorney general. The pay spike increased his state pension by over $11,000 dollars per year. Since that time Lungren has continued to support and accept pay raises while in Congress.    WATCH THE AD “SPIKED”   TRANSCRIPT   Narrator: The LA Times says Dan Lungren is plagued by ethics issues. And criticized for being a Washington insider. There’s more...listen to this:   TV Announcer: The former California attorney general spiked his state pension just before leaving office.   Narrator: Double dipping …nearly 230-thousand dollars a year with taxpayer funds. And if that wasn’t enough…In Congress, Lungren supported raising his pay six times. Dan Lungren...Spiking his pension, raising his pay and “plagued by ethics issues.” Heard Enough?    Dr. Bera: I’m Ami Bera and I approve this message.      The ad will begin running today on broadcast in the Sacramento media market. This is the first television advertisement in the race between Dr. Ami Bera and Dan Lungren.    A doctor and former Associate Dean of Admissions at UC Davis, Bera has gained tremendous support for his grassroots campaign. Nationally acknowledged as one of the top challenger races in the country, Dr. Bera has achieved enormous fundraising success, secured decisive endorsements, and earned widespread support.    Bera, 45, is a lifelong Californian whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from India over 50 years ago. He and his wife, Dr. Janine Bera, have been residents of Elk Grove, California for over 15 years and have a 12-year old daughter, Sydra. ###   2010-09-14T14:14:38+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/answer-the-question/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/answer-the-question/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 2, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com ANSWER THE QUESTION Bera for Congress calls on Lungren to answer Governor's question: Is it pensions or is it parks? ELK GROVE, CA -- Sacramento agrees on one thing: Dan Lungren's spiked pension is hurting Californians. Yesterday Republican Governor Schwarzenegger took aim at spiked pensions like the one enjoyed by Lungren: "Is it pensions or is it parks? Is it pensions or higher education? Is it pensions or childcare?"  How would Dan Lungren respond to these questions?  CBS-13 recently exposed how Lungren is double-dipping into taxpayer funds, collecting a taxpayer funded congressional salary while accepting a spiked, taxpayer funded pension from the state of California. In his final month as attorney general, Lungren accepted a 25.9% salary increase, which spiked his pension payouts by over $11,000.   "Before we devote one penny of taxpayer money for schools or kids, Californians will have to pay over $55,000 this year alone for Dan Lungren's spiked pension," said Lucinda Guinn, Bera for Congress campaign manager. "We call on Dan Lungren to answer Governor Schwarzenegger's questions - what's more important, his lavish, spiked pension, or education and healthcare for California's citizens?"  ###    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESeptember 2, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com   ANSWER THE QUESTIONBera for Congress calls on Lungren to answer Governor's question: Is it pensions or is it parks? ELK GROVE, CA -- Sacramento agrees on one thing: Dan Lungren's spiked pension is hurting Californians. Yesterday Republican Governor Schwarzenegger took aim at spiked pensions like the one enjoyed by Lungren:   "Is it pensions or is it parks? Is it pensions or higher education? Is it pensions or childcare?"  How would Dan Lungren respond to these questions?    CBS-13 recently exposed how Lungren is double-dipping into taxpayer funds, collecting a taxpayer funded congressional salary while accepting a spiked, taxpayer funded pension from the state of California. In his final month as attorney general, Lungren accepted a 25.9% salary increase, which spiked his pension payouts by over $11,000.     "Before we devote one penny of taxpayer money for schools or kids, Californians will have to pay over $55,000 this year alone for Dan Lungren's spiked pension," said Lucinda Guinn, Bera for Congress campaign manager. "We call on Dan Lungren to answer Governor Schwarzenegger's questions - what's more important, his lavish, spiked pension, or education and healthcare for California's citizens?"  ###      2010-09-02T20:48:59+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/nobody-likes-a-double-dipper/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/nobody-likes-a-double-dipper/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 20, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com Nobody Likes a Double-Dipper Lungren takes taxpayer-funded "cadillac" pension from Californians while also collecting taxpayer-funded salary.  ELK GROVE, CA - While Republicans debate pension reform at the upcoming "Pension Tsunami" workshop, they should take a hard look at one of their own: Representative Dan Lungren.  In 2009, Lungren received $55,697 in taxpayer money as part of his "cadillac" pension plan from the California Legislators Retirement System (LRS), after only eight years of service. As reported by the Sacramento Bee, Lungren receives a higher than average pension based on a 25.9% pay-raise he accepted in his final month as attorney general. This form of "pension spiking" was outlawed in 2007, but Lungren continues to benefit from the loophole, drawing a pension based on a salary he received for only one month.  While drawing an exorbitant pension from California taxpayers, Lungren is also collecting a $174,000 taxpayer funded federal salary, after taking over $12,000 in pay raises since 2005. This figure does not include Lungren's generous, taxpayer subsidized healthcare - according to the L.A. Times tax payers pick up the tab for three quarters of Lungren's premiums and paid roughly $15 billion in 2008 to insure federal employees like Lungren.  (Legistorm.com, "Member of Congress Salaries" http://www.legistorm.com/member_of_congress_salaries.html; Los Angeles Times, 1/4/88; Los Angeles Times, 8/2/09)   Not including perks like healthcare, Lungren's double-dipping will cost the American taxpayers over $229,000 this year alone.   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEAugust 20, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com Nobody Likes a Double-DipperLungren takes taxpayer-funded "cadillac" pension from Californians while also collecting taxpayer-funded salary. ELK GROVE, CA - While Republicans debate pension reform at the upcoming "Pension Tsunami" workshop, they should take a hard look at one of their own: Representative Dan Lungren.  In 2009, Lungren received $55,697 in taxpayer money as part of his "cadillac" pension plan from the California Legislators Retirement System (LRS), after only eight years of service. As reported by the Sacramento Bee, Lungren receives a higher pension based on a 25.9% pay-spike he accepted in his final month as attorney general. This form of "pension spiking" was outlawed in 2007, but Lungren continues to benefit from the loophole, drawing a pension based on a salary he received for only one month. Yesterday, Lungren disputed the amount of the pay-raise, but it is confirmed in this San Francisco Chronicle article. While drawing an exorbitant pension from California taxpayers, Lungren is also collecting a $174,000 taxpayer funded federal salary, after taking nearly $12,000 in pay raises since 2005. This figure does not include Lungren's generous, taxpayer subsidized healthcare - according to the L.A. Times tax payers pick up the tab for three quarters of Lungren's premiums and paid roughly $15 billion in 2008 to insure federal employees like Lungren.  (Legistorm.com, "Member of Congress Salaries" http://www.legistorm.com/member_of_congress_salaries.htm; Los Angeles Times, 8/2/09)   Not including perks like healthcare, Lungren's double-dipping will cost the American taxpayers over $229,000 this year alone. 2010-08-21T23:10:10+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dan-lungrens-lavish-pension/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dan-lungrens-lavish-pension/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 19, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com DAN LUNGREN'S LAVISH PENSION As California Republicans address the "Pension Tsunami" Lungren enjoys lavish LRS Pension ELK GROVE, CA - On Saturday August 21, 2010, the California Republican Party is hosting their fall convention, which will feature a workshop on “The ‘Pension Tsunami Facing California.”  The agenda for the workshop states that it will address the issue of lavish pension packages:  “How excessive are the pension packages given to government employees – and how you can best communicate with the public by using concrete examples of lavish pension packages” (California Republican Party web page, “Convention Info: Workshop Series,” http://www.cagop.org) If California Republicans are really looking for “concrete examples of lavish pension packages,” they could look to one of their own: Rep. Dan Lungren.  In 2009, Lungren received $55,697 in pension income from the California Legislators Retirement Pension (LRS) for only eight years of service as attorney general.  The following table details the pension income that Lungren has reported on his financial disclosure statements since he began collecting an LRS pension:  (Financial Disclosure Statement, “Schedule I: Earned Income,” United States Clerk of the House, Dan Lungren) Lungren’s LRS pension has far exceeded the pension income earned by the average state employee in California. According to calculations by the Orange County Register, under the pension plan offered to typical state employees, an 11-year employee would be eligible, at most, for $40,738 annually.  (Orange County Register, 8/13/10) Moreover, Lungren enjoyed a significant spike in his pension payments due to a 25.9% salary increase he received during his final month in office, which increased the maximum amount he could collect on his LRS pension by $11,546.40.  If LRS pension payouts are calculated using 40% of an individual’s maximum salary, then Lungren’s LRS pension would have only been $44,553.60 based on the $111,384 salary he received in 1998.  However, after Lungren received his 25.9% pay raise, the maximum pension benefits available to him increased from $44,553.60 to $56,100, based solely on the salary he received from December 7, 1998 until January 4, 1999. (California Citizens Compensation Committee, “Salaries of Elected Officials,” www.dpa.ca.gov, Orange County Register, 8/13/10)  A few years after Lungren took advantage of this form of "pension spiking," it was outlawed.  In 2007, the Senate and the Assembly passed SB 221 unanimously, which changed the pension benefit structure to close the payout loophole enjoyed by Lungren. Pensions are now based on the highest average salary during a 12-month period.  Lungren continues to draw a pension based on a salary he made for only a month. (SB 221, 2007; Sacramento Bee, 7/18/2007) Additionally, Lungren’s $55,697 LRS pension package is not the only government benefits package he will be eligible for when he retires.  He will also be eligible to receive an estimated federal pension of $64,662 for the 15 years he’s served in Congress, courtesy of the American taxpayer.  Although Lungren has yet to begin collecting a federal pension, an estimate was calculated based on his congressional salary over the last three years and the Civil Service Retirement System pension formula provided by the Congressional Research Service. This year Lungren accepted a $174,000 taxypayer-funded salary in addition to his lavish LRS pension. (U.S. Senate web page, “RL30631: Congressional Research Service Report for Congress: Retirement Benefits for Members of Congress,” www.senate.gov; TheCapitol.net web page, “FAQ: Pay and perquisites of Members of Congress,” www.thecapitol.net) ###   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEAugust 19, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com DAN LUNGREN'S LAVISH PENSIONAs California Republicans address the "Pension Tsunami" Lungren enjoys lavish LRS Pension ELK GROVE, CA - On Saturday August 21, 2010, the California Republican Party is hosting their fall convention, which will feature a workshop on “The ‘Pension Tsunami Facing California.”  The agenda for the workshop states that it will address the issue of lavish pension packages:  “How excessive are the pension packages given to government employees – and how you can best communicate with the public by using concrete examples of lavish pension packages” (California Republican Party web page, “Convention Info: Workshop Series,” http://www.cagop.org) If California Republicans are really looking for “concrete examples of lavish pension packages,” they could look to one of their own: Rep. Dan Lungren.  In 2009, Lungren received $55,697 in pension income from the California Legislators Retirement Pension (LRS) for only eight years of service as attorney general.  The following table details the pension income that Lungren has reported on his financial disclosure statements since he began collecting an LRS pension:  (Financial Disclosure Statement, “Schedule I: Earned Income,” United States Clerk of the House, Dan Lungren) Lungren’s LRS pension has far exceeded the pension income earned by the average state employee in California. According to calculations by the Orange County Register, under the pension plan offered to typical state employees, an 11-year employee would be eligible, at most, for $40,738 annually.  (Orange County Register, 8/13/10) Moreover, Lungren enjoyed a significant spike in his pension payments due to a 25.9% salary increase he received during his final month in office, which increased the maximum amount he could collect on his LRS pension by $11,546.40.  If LRS pension payouts are calculated using 40% of an individual’s maximum salary, then Lungren’s LRS pension would have only been $44,553.60 based on the $111,384 salary he received in 1998.  However, after Lungren received his 25.9% pay raise, the maximum pension benefits available to him increased from $44,553.60 to $56,100, based solely on the salary he received from December 7, 1998 until January 4, 1999. (California Citizens Compensation Committee, “Salaries of Elected Officials,” www.dpa.ca.gov, Orange County Register, 8/13/10)  A few years after Lungren took advantage of this form of "pension spiking," it was outlawed.  In 2007, the Senate and the Assembly passed SB 221 unanimously, which changed the pension benefit structure to close the payout loophole enjoyed by Lungren. Pensions are now based on the highest average salary during a 12-month period.  Lungren continues to draw a pension based on a salary he made for only a month. (SB 221, 2007; Sacramento Bee, 7/18/2007) Additionally, Lungren’s $55,697 LRS pension package is not the only government benefits package he will be eligible for when he retires.  He will also be eligible to receive an estimated federal pension of $64,662 for the 15 years he’s served in Congress, courtesy of the American taxpayer.  Although Lungren has yet to begin collecting a federal pension, an estimate was calculated based on his congressional salary over the last three years and the Civil Service Retirement System pension formula provided by the Congressional Research Service. This year Lungren accepted a $174,000 taxypayer-funded salary in addition to his lavish LRS pension. (U.S. Senate web page, “RL30631: Congressional Research Service Report for Congress: Retirement Benefits for Members of Congress,” www.senate.gov; TheCapitol.net web page, “FAQ: Pay and perquisites of Members of Congress,” www.thecapitol.net) ###     2010-08-19T20:44:39+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-signs-pledge-not-to-privatize/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-signs-pledge-not-to-privatize/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 13, 2010  Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com  ON 75th ANNIVERSARY OF SOCIAL SECURITY, DR. AMI BERA SIGNS PLEDGE NOT TO PRIVATIZE Celebrates Social Security's birthday with senior citizens, calls on Lungren to take same pledge ELK GROVE, CA - Today, in a celebration with senior citizens commemorating the 75th anniversary of Social Security, Dr. Ami Bera signed a pledge promising not to privatize the Social Security program, and called on Dan Lungren to do the same. After signing the pledge, Dr. Bera presented the seniors with a large cake to celebrate the program's birthday.  WATCH VIDEO OF DR. BERA'S CHALLENGE TO LUNGREN HERE “After celebrating the 75th birthday of Social Security with the great residents of Eskaton Senior Village, I've signed a pledge to fight against any efforts by Washington D.C. to privatize Social Security," said Dr. Bera. "I challenge Congressman Dan Lungren to make that same pledge." Dan Lungren has repeatedly advocated for privatization. During his 2004 campaign, Lungren told the Sacramento Bee that he favored "allowing private investment of Social Security contributions" (Sacramento Bee, 10/17/04). And, in 2005, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Lungren supported President Bush's plan to add private accounts to Social Security (San Francisco Chronicle, 3/04/2005). As recently as this week, Lungren praised Rep. Paul Ryan's budget plan to privatize Social Security.  "I believe strongly in protecting the future of this vital program and ensuring its long-term sustainability," said Dr. Bera. "My opponent has advocated for privatizing Social Security and gambling with seniors’ benefits in the stock market – an idea that would have resulted in an economic catastrophe for millions of Americans. When I’m elected, I’ll do everything in my power to protect Social Security today, and for the next generation of American workers." A doctor and former Associate Dean of Admissions at UC Davis, Bera has gained tremendous support for his grassroots campaign. Nationally acknowledged as one of the top challenger races in the country, Dr. Bera has achieved enormous fundraising success, secured decisive endorsements, and earned widespread support.  Bera, 45, is a lifelong Californian whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from India over 50 years ago. He and his wife, Dr. Janine Bera, have been residents of Elk Grove, California for over 15 years and have a 12-year old daughter, Sydra. ##FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEAugust 13, 2010  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEAugust 13, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com  ON 75th ANNIVERSARY OF SOCIAL SECURITY, DR. AMI BERA SIGNS PLEDGE NOT TO PRIVATIZECelebrates Social Security's birthday with senior citizens, calls on Lungren to take same pledge ELK GROVE, CA - Today, in a celebration with senior citizens commemorating the 75th anniversary of Social Security, Dr. Ami Bera signed a pledge promising not to privatize the Social Security program, and called on Dan Lungren to do the same. After signing the pledge, Dr. Bera presented the seniors with a large cake to celebrate the program's birthday.  WATCH VIDEO OF DR. BERA'S CHALLENGE TO LUNGREN HERE “After celebrating the 75th birthday of Social Security with the great residents of Eskaton Senior Village, I've signed a pledge to fight against any efforts by Washington D.C. to privatize Social Security," said Dr. Bera. "I challenge Congressman Dan Lungren to make that same pledge." Dan Lungren has repeatedly advocated for privatization. During his 2004 campaign, Lungren told the Sacramento Bee that he favored "allowing private investment of Social Security contributions" (Sacramento Bee, 10/17/04). And, in 2005, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Lungren supported President Bush's plan to add private accounts to Social Security (San Francisco Chronicle, 3/04/2005). As recently as this week, Lungren praised Rep. Paul Ryan's budget plan to privatize Social Security.  "I believe strongly in protecting the future of this vital program and ensuring its long-term sustainability," said Dr. Bera. "My opponent has advocated for privatizing Social Security and gambling with seniors’ benefits in the stock market – an idea that would have resulted in an economic catastrophe for millions of Americans. When I’m elected, I’ll do everything in my power to protect Social Security today, and for the next generation of American workers." A doctor and former Associate Dean of Admissions at UC Davis, Bera has gained tremendous support for his grassroots campaign. Nationally acknowledged as one of the top challenger races in the country, Dr. Bera has achieved enormous fundraising success, secured decisive endorsements, and earned widespread support.  Bera, 45, is a lifelong Californian whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from India over 50 years ago. He and his wife, Dr. Janine Bera, have been residents of Elk Grove, California for over 15 years and have a 12-year old daughter, Sydra. ###     2010-08-13T03:47:21+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-unveils-loopholelungren/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-unveils-loopholelungren/   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 29, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244  press@beraforcongress.com BERA CAMPAIGN UNVEILS WWW.LOOPHOLELUNGREN.COM Site highlights video of Lungren exploiting ethics loophole, ties voting record to campaign contributions ELK GROVE, CA – Today the Bera for Congress Campaign unveiled a new website, www.LoopholeLungren.com, highlighting the hundreds of thousands of dollars Lungren has accepted from Washington lobbyists and exposing Dan "Loophole" Lungren's egregious exploitation of a House ethics loophole to skirt the rules and take a lobbyist-funded junket to Hawaii.  The website features a video from ABC News, detailing how Lungren used a loophole in the House ethics rules so that he and his wife could take an all expense paid trip to Hawaii, courtesy of federal aviation lobbyists. Lungren was one of the first members of the House of Representatives to discover and exploit this loophole, after Democrats passed sweeping ethics reform legislation in 2007.  "Visitors to LoopholeLungren.com can see for themselves how Dan Lungren spends his time: skirting the rules and cavorting with special interest lobbyists in exotic locations," said Lucinda Guinn, Dr. Bera's campaign manager. "Dan Lungren has taken hundreds of thousands of dollars from Washington lobbyists, and in return he's working for corporate special interests in Congress – he is the poster child for what's wrong with Washington. The arrogance, and utter lack of remorse Lungren shows after being caught red-handed exploiting an ethics loophole is simply astounding. Californians deserve better."  Click Here to Visit LoopholeLungren.com ### FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJuly 29, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com BERA CAMPAIGN UNVEILS WWW.LOOPHOLELUNGREN.COMSite highlights video of Lungren exploiting ethics loophole, ties voting record to campaign contributions ELK GROVE, CA – Today the Bera for Congress Campaign unveiled a new website, www.LoopholeLungren.com, highlighting the hundreds of thousands of dollars Lungren has accepted from Washington lobbyists and exposing Dan "Loophole" Lungren's egregious exploitation of a House ethics loophole to skirt the rules and take a lobbyist-funded junket to Hawaii.  The website features a video from ABC News, detailing how Lungren used a loophole in the House ethics rules so that he and his wife could take an all expense paid trip to Hawaii, courtesy of federal aviation lobbyists. Lungren was one of the first members of the House of Representatives to discover and exploit this loophole, after Democrats passed sweeping ethics reform legislation in 2007.  "Visitors to LoopholeLungren.com can see for themselves how Dan Lungren spends his time: skirting the rules and cavorting with special interest lobbyists in exotic locations," said Lucinda Guinn, Dr. Bera's campaign manager. "Dan Lungren has taken hundreds of thousands of dollars from Washington lobbyists, and in return he's working for corporate special interests in Congress – he is the poster child for what's wrong with Washington. The arrogance, and utter lack of remorse Lungren shows after being caught red-handed exploiting an ethics loophole is simply astounding. Californians deserve better."  Click Here to Visit LoopholeLungren.com ###     2010-07-29T03:57:34+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-unveils-big-oil-big-money/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/bera-unveils-big-oil-big-money/   FOIMMEDIATE RELEASE July 15, 2010 Contact: Lucinda Guinn (916) 686-5244 press@beraforcongress.com BERA CAMPAIGN UNVEILS NEW VIDEO EXPOSING LUNGREN'S SUPPORT FOR BIG OIL Lungren supports tax breaks for oil companies while taking $75,000 from Big Oil ELK GROVE, CA – Today Bera for Congress unveiled a new online video, "Big Oil, Big Money" exposing Dan Lungren's continued support for offshore drilling and Big Oil, even after the catastrophic BP oil spill.  CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO  TRANSCRIPT Anchor: Republican Dan Lungren says we have to start drilling for oil off the coast of California.  Lungren: Take the restraints off of offshore oil drilling. Allow more leases. We can do it safely. Announcer: 11 workers are still missing and feared dead...the gusher in the Gulf continues to pour ou t.   Lungren: We can do it without environmental degradation.  Announcer: The spill now covering 400 miles of shoreline...once it's in these fragile wetlands, the oil is almost impossible to clean up.  Lungren: Look, drill here, in America. Not only in California but off Florida. In the Gulf. Off Atlantic.  Announcer: How much more will Lungren do for Big Oil? Lungren has voted for $2.6 billion in tax breaks for oil and gas companies, to expand offshore drilling, and even as Big Oil's profits continue to soar, Lungren voted to give them government handouts. It's easy to see where Lungren's loyalties lie.  Lungren: Drill here, in the United States, American resources. Drill now, not 20 years from now, not 30 years from now, now! Drill here! Drill here! Drill here!  Announcer: And Lungren's greed seems to have no end.  Lungren: If I could get more I'd take more. Announcer: Dan Lungren: Hasn't he taken enough?  ### FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJuly 15, 2010Contact: Lucinda Guinn(916) 686-5244press@beraforcongress.com BERA CAMPAIGN UNVEILS NEW VIDEO EXPOSING LUNGREN'S SUPPORT FOR BIG OILLungren supports tax breaks for oil companies while taking $75,000 from Big Oil ELK GROVE, CA – Today Bera for Congress unveiled a new online video, "Big Oil, Big Money" exposing Dan Lungren's continued support for offshore drilling and Big Oil, even after the catastrophic BP oil spill.  CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO  TRANSCRIPT Anchor: Republican Dan Lungren says we have to start drilling for oil off the coast of California.  Lungren: Take the restraints off of offshore oil drilling. Allow more leases. We can do it safely. Announcer: 11 workers are still missing and feared dead...the gusher in the Gulf continues to pour ou t. Lungren: We can do it without environmental degradation.  Announcer: The spill now covering 400 miles of shoreline...once it's in these fragile wetlands, the oil is almost impossible to clean up.  Lungren: Look, drill here, in America. Not only in California but off Florida. In the Gulf. Off Atlantic.  Announcer: How much more will Lungren do for Big Oil? Lungren has voted for $2.6 billion in tax breaks for oil and gas companies, to expand offshore drilling, and even as Big Oil's profits continue to soar, Lungren voted to give them government handouts. It's easy to see where Lungren's loyalties lie.  Lungren: Drill here, in the United States, American resources. Drill now, not 20 years from now, not 30 years from now, now! Drill here! Drill here! Drill here!  Announcer: And Lungren's greed seems to have no end.  Lungren: If I could get more I'd take more. Announcer: Dan Lungren: Hasn't he taken enough?  ###     2010-07-15T04:08:44+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-candidate-for-californias-3rd-congressional-district-rele/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-candidate-for-californias-3rd-congressional-district-rele/ RANCHO CORDOVA, CA – In a gathering with working families and small business leaders, candidate for California’s 3rd congressional district Dr. Ami Bera unveiled his economic plan to create jobs and stimulate economic recovery, while returning opportunity and prosperity to California. 2010-06-10T19:29:56+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/california-teachers-association-endorses-dr.-ami-bera/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/california-teachers-association-endorses-dr.-ami-bera/ Teachers across the region support Bera as campaign picks up steamElk Grove—The California Teachers Association has endorsed Dr. Ami Bera inhis bid to unseat Dan Lungren this November. 2010-06-03T00:15:01+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/california-nurses-association-endorses-dr.-ami-bera-for-congress/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/california-nurses-association-endorses-dr.-ami-bera-for-congress/ Momentum continues to build on Bera’s campaign Elk Grove, CA—The California Nurses Association and National Nurses Organizing Committee has endorsed Dr. Ami Bera for Congress in California’s third district. 2010-05-24T20:19:29+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/league-of-conservation-voters-action-fund-endorses-bera-for-congress/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/league-of-conservation-voters-action-fund-endorses-bera-for-congress/ Elk Grove, CA—The League of Conservation Voters has announced their endorsement of Dr. Ami Bera to represent California’s 3rdCongressional District. “LCV is proud to endorse Dr. Ami Bera for the U.S. House of Representatives because he understands that instead of spending billions on foreign oil, we should be investing in clean, secure energy sources right here in America,” said LCV President Gene Karpinski. 2010-05-13T06:25:49+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-out-raises-lungren-four-consecutive-quarters/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-out-raises-lungren-four-consecutive-quarters/ Bera’s cash on hand advantage grows to $327,000 Elk Grove, CA – Dr. Ami Bera announced yesterday  that he has finished the first quarter of 2010 with over $977,000 cash on hand, after raising $384,511 in the first quarter of 2010 and successfully out raising his opponent for the fourth consecutive quarter. 2010-04-16T06:23:09+00:00 http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-raises-over-380000-in-first-quarter/ http://www.beraforcongress.com/press_releases/entry/dr.-ami-bera-raises-over-380000-in-first-quarter/ Grassroots campaign and small dollar donors put Bera at almost $1 million cash on hand Elk Grove, CA – Dr. Ami Bera announced today that has finished the first quarter of 2010 with over $977,000 cash on hand, after raising $384,500 in the first quarter of 2010. 2010-04-15T06:20:38+00:00