STEVE PEARCE WILL CHALLENGE HARRY TEAGUE FOR CONGRESSIONAL SEAT

Steve Pearce with his wife, Cynthia at his side announced yesterday afternoon that he would seek the GOP nomination for the 2nd Congressional District House seat currently held by Harry Teague. The Hobbs business man addressed about 100supporters who gathered at Rawson Builders to hear comments from Pearce who held the congressional seat prior to his run for the U.S. Senate last year and losing to Tom Udall.

The "old guard" of the local GOP were present and his old campaign and congressional staff from Dona Ana County were among the group. There were a number of young and enthusiastic supporters also, with a strong presence from the GOP 'conservative right wing evangelicals' present.

In his introductory speech, former State Senator Lee Rawson defined Pearce's full name. Steve he said means "the crowned one;" Edward (Pearce's Middle Name) is "appointed protector;" and Pearce means "rock." Rawson went on to say that Pearce was a "patriot, leader, former Veteran, and will stand up to protect the rights of New Mexicans." Using the acronym BET which Rawson explained was "B for balance;" "E for experience;" and finally "T for Trust."

Pearce opened by saying that the "GOP has not communicated well with the American people and has failed to get out their message." He noted that he has known Harry Teague for a number of years and their offices were across the street from one another in Hobbs, NM where both men are in the oil business. However, Pearce said that Teague has failed New Mexico and that it was time for a change.

He said as he looked at Teagues conformist votes and views during his first term in Congress this convinced him that he needed to run again. Pearce said that he was extremely disappointed in Teague's vote for the "Cap and Trade" bill that will "kill jobs in New Mexico."

Pearce admitted that this would be a "tough fight" and that he could not count on Washington for support. His opponent's supporters will use "stimulus money" to "buy favor" from local communities and leaders to help him maintain his seat.

"Tax and Spend" is what has hurt American and the "out of control Congress adding more bureaucracies: doesn't help Pearce went on to say.

Pearce said that he was committed to "fight for jobs for New Mexico, cut spending and taxes, fight corruption in New Mexico at all levels, the revitalization of the U.S. economy, and protect the people and the environment" were among his litany of political challenges.

"I need your help, it will take money, time and volunteers to help me win" as Pearce challenged his supporters to get involved.