The Populista Report

Help send me to Netroots Nation!

2009-07-14T18:55:00.000-07:00

I want to go to Pittsburgh. Not for the G20 summit, not to see the best team in football's opener, not simply to visit a emerging hub of the green economy.

I want to go to Pittsburgh for the fourth annual Netroots Nation convention. But I need your help. I try not to ask for too much from this community but I need to ask for some help again.

From August 13-16 Pittsburgh will be hosting this years Netroots Nation, I want to be there to appear on a panel, attend other awesome panels, meet you all and do the whole Netroots Nation experience.

I need your help to get there. Democracy for America is running a scholarship competition to help make the costs of attending more affordable. They will be selecting 10 winners from the final round judged by a variety of factors, but one of them is public support. You can help me win a scholarship by voting for me. It will take less than a minute and I'd really appreciate your help. Just click here. That will take you to a page where you can either log into your existing DFA account (if you have one) or create a new one, then it takes you to a page where you can write a quick comment of support and click on "voice support" to officially support me. If you want to read my application click here.

It costs money for DFA to provide these scholarships, if you can send them some money to help out with the cost. It helps send 30 people to Netroots Nation who might not have been able otherwise. It was built out of kid oakland's original chicago voices effort. So any donations you could send them give a great bang for the buck and help send some great people to Netroots Nation.

Thanks so much for all that you do and for any votes that you could give me.

Sí se puede!

Daily Stuff: May July 3rd / 2009

2009-07-03T21:46:00.000-07:00

-This is a must watch video from Bill McKibben -- a real American hero -- about climate politics and movements in the United States and about how the Obama White House told him that if we want Obama to be able to take the bold action on climate change that we need we have to build a movement to make him do it, and I would add, make the Senate do it.

-National Republicans are idiots.

-The idea that the Farm Bureau represents farmers is laughable. They are, to be quite frank, a evil organization. Exhibit A, Exhibit B.

-I'm reserving comment on this until Google releases it's much hyped Palin to English translation machine.

-I agree with this guy. Stage makeup is overrated for the positives it brings.

Happy almost Forth of July!

Tom Perriello: Profile in Climate Courage

2009-06-26T18:32:00.000-07:00

Today the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES) passed the House of Representatives on a 219-212 vote. It was not a perfect bill, indeed it has major flaws, but it is the first time a chamber of Congress has ever passed meaningful, comprehensive legislation dealing with climate change. It is a historic vote.

Unfortunately 44 Democratic representatives voted NO on this bill. Only three of them did that beacuse the bill was too weak. The rest wouldn't take the political risk of voting for even a fairly weak climate bill that doesn't even come close to doing what science demands. That's a pretty depressing fact. And it means we've got a lot of work to do as climate activists.

But one representative from a tough district didn't go along. He stood up for what he knew was right and voted for the bill despite a flood of calls to his office driven by hate radio, despite the political pressures of being a freshman Democrat in a district McCain won. That representative is Tom Perriello of Virgina's 5th district.

Although I don't live in his district or even in Virgina I've been a fan of Perriello for a long time. In 2006 Keith Ellison was elected to Congress from the 5th district of Minnesota which is the district next to mine. He happens to be a Muslim and was the first Muslim elected to Congress.

At the time the representative from Virgina's 5th district was Republican Rep. Virgil Goode. Virgil Goode is a bigot. The idea of serving next to a Muslim made him spew out lots of bigotry. That's how I first learned about Virgil Goode. He seemed like a nasty guy. But his district seemed like it was unlikely to elect a Democrat. I forgot about the district.

But I am a reader of Josh Marshall's Talking Points Memo, particularly the TPMCafe section. And they allow guest posts from notable people. Well in October, 2007 Tom Perriello was one of the guest posters. And he wrote one of the most important articles I've read by a politician. Entitled "Conviction Politics... in Practice." Read it. It's worth your time.

After that I got very interested in the campaign and did what I could as someone who doesn't live in the district and can't vote. Asked for money online. No one thought he could win. But I believed in him. He ran a great, grassroots campaign and won in one of the biggest upsets of the 2008 election by under 1000 votes.

And today he made any probably meaningless contribution to his campaign that I made worthwhile by putting his conviction politics into practice and voting for ACES. It wasn't a easy vote. McCain won the district. It has been traditionally Republican. But Tom stood up for what he believed in.

As Darcy Burner so eloquently wrote we need to reward people to stand up for what they believe in and display courage and conviction. Of all the representatives who made the right vote today Tom needs the most help. His district will be a top target of Republicans in 2010. He will have a strong opponent. We need to reward conviction politics and thank Tom Perriello by supporting him.

I've set up a ActBlue page where you can donate to his campaign. Tom doesn't going to get a lot of money from special interests and if he ever did he won't after today. He needs our help. He did the right thing. It's time to reward that.

Please donate what you can. Anything helps.

And while your at it. Join 1Sky, a fantastic group working hard for a strong climate bill. They are doing some of the best work in the environmental movement and have lots of ways you can help. Passing a good climate bill in the Senate will be very, very hard. We need to build a strong climate movement to do that and that's exactly what 1Sky is doing. They could also use some money if you've got any. Polluters are outspending us 16-1.

We need to restore the founding American ethic that we are better off when we are in this together. Since the original thirteen colonies joined together as the United States, through Civil War and the Great Depression, we have risen or fallen according to this simple rule: America thrives when we are united in a common purpose for the common good.- Tom Perriello

Michele Bachmann is a liar: Climate action edition

2009-06-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

Michele Bachmann is crazy in a lot of ways. If your reading this blog, you probably know that. One of her most outrageous examples of that is her denialism and lies about global climate change and the cost of federal action on climate change to avoid the devastating effects of climate change.

She has been doing this by making wild and incorrect claims to scare the American people into opposing climate action. She's thrown out a lot of figures, for example in a op-ed she wrote for the Avista Capital Partners-owned Star Tribune in which she claimed the cost of climate action would be between $3,128 and $4,000 per household. To combat climate action she's called for ‘Armed and Dangerous’ Opposition.

But as we learned today her fearmongering is far, far from the truth. In reality the modest climate action being considered by Congress now in the form of the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES) would likely cost $5 dollars a year or less per household, and that's without factoring in the negatives economic impacts of climate change that would be averted with this action.

The CBO (Congressional Budget Office) released a report about the economic impacts of H.R. 2454 (ACES) at the request of Rep. Dave Camp, a Republican from Michigan. And here's what they found: the average household would spend a minuscule amount to reduce global warming pollution. Their analysis determined “that the net annual economywide cost of the cap-and-trade program in 2020 would be $22 billion—or about $175 for the average household.” To put that in perspective, 48 cents per day – a tiny bit more than the cost of a postage stamp – to avoid climate change. In fact, households in the lowest economic quintile would see an average net benefit of about $40 in 2020.

But the CBO is certainly overestimating the what the costs would really be. It only estimates the economic impact of the cap and trade "title" of the bill and does not factor in the other major parts of the bill dealing with energy efficiency and renewable energy which would significantly lower economic impacts. The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy estimates that the efficiency provisions alone could save $170 per household in 2020. The math is easy. That's nearly as much as the CBO estimates the total cost per household to be which makes the cost of climate action a mere $5 a year per household in America or a little bit more then a penny a day.

And even that estimate is likely far overstating the costs of action. Most environmental regulations cost much less then originally estimated, for example the actual cost of the Clean Air Act of 1990 was just one quarter of original EPA estimates.

So when you hear politicians like Michelle Bachmann lying about the costs of climate action remember what the truth is. Climate action will cost per household at most, will create 30,000 new jobs in Minnesota and prevent the worst impacts of climate change which could hit Minnesotans, particularly our farmers. Unfortunately Minnesota's Rep. Colin Peterson is leading the fight to block climate change action with some of the same Bachmannesque denalisim which is sadly being enabled by Rep. Tim Walz who helping him delay progress until Peterson's demands to weaken the American Clean Energy and Security Act are met. It's too bad that Minnesota Democrats are standing in the way of climate action that will help the farmers in their districts and create new jobs for their constituents. I'll have more on that soon.

Assaisinated

2009-05-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

No daily stuff today. Robert Tiller was assassinated today and that's about all I can deal with.

Daily Stuff: May 29th / 2009

2009-05-29T20:04:00.000-07:00

-Tom Tancredo: Racist

-Vermont passes feed in tariffs. This is a policy that needs to be debated more. I know it was tried a few decades back in California and it didn't work but Germany made some changes to it and it seems to be working very well for them. Gainesville, Florida recently started a feed-in tariff and it has been a big success. Yet it doesn't seem like it's being discussed nationally as a realistic policy option, it's about time we at least have a debate about it.

-Isn't small government awesome!

-Ladies and gents, introducing Ed Rendell, last seen worrying about Obama losing a state he won by double digits.

-White male power!

-I don't always agree (in fact I quite often disagree) with things said by some writers on the OpenLeft frontpage but I'm always happy when people step it up and put their money where their mouth is in support of progressive infrastructure.

Daily Stuff: May 27th / 2009

2009-05-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

-My fellow MPP blogger Big E has a post up on the parallels between California's total governmental breakdown and move toward 19th century social Darwinism and Tim Pawlenty's impending disastrous unilateral cuts in Minnesota. It's worth a read.

-Obama nominated a bunch of ambassadors today.

-He's also apparently considering a really awesome guy to head up a big new forign aid effort.

-America is a center-left nation, despite the reports to the contrary.

-When Joe Romm talks about offsets in cap and trade it's generally worth reading. So take a look.

-This strikes me as a very good idea that the Senate will probably kill.

Daily Stuff: May 26th / 2009

2009-05-26T19:34:00.000-07:00

Back from a vacation of getting ticks on me and marveling at the genius of Pixar and Rowan Atkinson movies.

-Apparently Barack Obama nominated Maria Sotomayor to the Supreme Court today. Seems like a very good and historic pick although conservatives will likely be upset that Obama didn't nominated their ideal choice: a robot.

-Unsurprisingly Prop 8 was upheld by the California Supreme Court today. Certified genius Adam Bonin explains. The Courage Campaign gears up to repeal it.

-In more surprising news Ted Olson, Bush's lawyer in Bush vs Gore and one of the most influential conservative lawyers in the countries is challenging Prop 8 in federal court.

-My college Joe Bodell has his latest gubernatorial power rankings for Minnesota. I pretty much agree. I'd put Coleman and Marty a bit higher but Joe is better at these things then I am. It's definitely a race that could play out a lot of different ways.

-Dear Tucker Carlson: If your not going to go away at least come up with a new idea, Thanks.

-Ezra Klein does more explaining of healthcare reform.

Daily Stuff: May 22 / 2009

2009-05-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

-This is kind of cool.

-Funny things happen when Republicans are honest.

-Yes. Waterboarding is torture. Duh.

-Doesn't have a rate cap but still a step forward. Obama signs the credit card bill of rights.

-Please stop tweeting, Glenn Beck. Examples of Beck tweets "we're all going to die. Soon." and "I like fish"

-I don't entirely agree with Jesse Jenkins and the Breakthrough Institute on climate change and the ACES bill (See Joe Romm for a slightly over the top version of that) but Jesse has a very measured take on what we need to do to improve the bill. The bottom line: we need more money for clean energy. It's more complicated then that but it is a important point to make.

-Ethan McNamee for President!

Daily Stuff: May 21 / 2009

2009-05-21T19:40:00.000-07:00

Today the House Energy and Commerce Committee finished it's markup of the landmark clean climate, energy and jobs bill known as Waxman-Markey or more formally the American Clean Energy and Security Act. It passed the committee with one Republican vote (Mary Bono Mack of California) and four Democrats in opposition. It's a pretty huge deal so that's most of what today's stuff is about.

-First. What Dave said. And I would add it would be nice to have that kind of presence in the office of every legislator every week.

-Lots of people have roundups on the passage. I recomend Grist's Kate Sheppard and Climate Progress's Joe Romm. Adam Siegel is less impressed.

-It was really awesome to read the great reporting/livetweeting under the #ACES tag on twitter. In particular @JesseJenkins @climatebill @kate_sheppard @LCVoters @MeghanMcNamara and probably some others I'm forgetting did a really fantastic job of providing real time updates throughout the process. They really showed that Twitter can be used as a powerful tool for open government, not just a way to update the world on what your eating.

-Evan Bayh is a really bad Senator. I don't mind being a Big Tent party, don't think most Democrats should get primaries and am fine with Democrats who "vote their district." But Evan Bayh is from a state that Barack Obama won. Every single issue he tries to find a way to find "common ground" for no reason other then that's the niche he's created for himself. It's hard to see what he does as motivated by any principle or conviction. If he faced India's other Senator, Republican Richard Lugar, in an election I honestly think I'd vote for Lugar.

-This guy is cool. Maybe I should become a speed reader.

-What would happen if we delayed helathcare reform? Really, really bad things.

-Ezra Klein makes incredibly boring things exiting and easy to understand Part 1: differential tax treatment of health care benefits when provided by your employer

-Mmmm. Nice cool Mud Soup.

Daily Stuff: May 16 / 2009

2009-05-16T21:02:00.000-07:00

I'm back from the road.

-Megan Mcardle the make a great case to not include offsets in a cap and trade regime and turns it into a argument in favor on a carbon tax. Sigh.

-Waxman released the compromise version of his climate bill. Romm, Jenkins/Norris and many more have takes on it. I pretty much agree with the

-Obama's nomination of Jon Huntsman to be Ambassador to China strikes me as completely brilliant

-Happy Whitey Tape Day!

-CBO + Healthcare Reform Numbers = Jon Cohn

-R.T. Rybak won his first DFL endorsement easily on the first round. Why? Beacuse he's a good mayor.

-You've got to admit, our president is just a little bit adorable.

Daily Stuff: May 11 / 2009

2009-05-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

-I wonder what reading Senate Finance Committee papers on policy options to expand healthcare coverage on a Monday night and finding it interesting makes me. In any case, if anyone else is into that kind of stuff here it is.

-This is incredibly depressing. Our planet is about to hit dangerous tipping points that could drastically change the way of life for billions of people on Earth and potentially cause "water wars" that could cost us trillions and Congress is debating perhaps one of the most wide reaching changes to our economy ever. And no one has any clue about what that change is. More people think cap and trade has to due with Wall Street reform then the enviorment. Doesn't make you feel confident in our f future.

-Speaking of which Gillian Caldwell, the awesome director of 1Sky has a post on Climate Progress about "climate trauma." It was good to know that I wasn't the only one feeling like that.

-On a much brighter climate related note Joe Romm thinks carbon dioxide emissions in the United States peaked in 2007 and I can't argue with his logic. That would be fantastic news.

-Mike Lux is quite smart. He is a big fan of toast. Me too. He also wishes America made good high quality products, that would be cool as well.

-What Yglesias said

-Arjun Jaikumar is leaving DailyKos for the DSCC. Couldn't have happened to a better person. Arjun is one of the best damn bloggers that DailyKos ever put on the front page.

Weekend Stuff

2009-05-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here's some notable stuff that I have been reading or watching over the weekend.

-The AP has a scoop on a major announcement coming tomorow about healthcare costs. I have a no AP linking policy due to many things (mostly their stance on content distribution and copyright) but you should be able to find it with a quick Google. Paul Krugman has most of it along with his thoughts which I mostly agree with. It's a good step forward but I honestly don't have a whole lot of trust in these people. I think they are trying to use this to improve their public image so they can kill the public plan. I hope Obama sticks to his guns and gives us all a choice (You can help out with that by Standing With Dr. Dean).

-Obama as it turns out, can make some pretty good jokes. Sure they got written by comedy writers so do Colbert and Stewart's jokes. I've always imagined this would be the most fun part about being president.

-Rock Hackshaw, a great blogger from NYC has a very good post about urban issues.

-John Edwards had smart people running his campaign.

-Cory Booker takes to HuffPost to write about education reform. I don't agree with Cory on everything but it's worth a read.

-President Obama: Please stand up to Bibi. If you are able to resolve the I/P issue it will be a lasting legacy that only addressing climate change will be able to match.

Daily Stuff - 5/8/09

2009-05-08T21:39:00.000-07:00

-My fellow MPP blogger Brian Falldin wants my favorite St Paul City Councilmember, Melvin Carter, to run for governor. I'm unconvinced. Melvin is a great guy but he's been on the council for a year. I'll be strongly encouraging him to run for mayor in 2013 and maybe governor in 2018. He's got young kids and by then would be just barely 40 when inaugurated I believe. We've got plenty of other promising potential candidates this time around.

-I'm proud of my state for being the first to ban BPA, all the fantastic advocates who worked so hard for this day and Governor Pawlenty for signing this bill.

-Arlen Specter and Diane Feinstein are laying the groundwork for a "compromise" on EFCA. It's not nearly as good as the original bill which I continue to support but it's much better then other "compromises" I've seen floating around and would be a genuine improvement over the current system. Labor law needs to be updated and this would be a step forward.

-Breaking news: Sean Hannity makes Stephen Colbert's job easy.

-Obama's administration is gearing up to fire two awful bank CEO's: Ken Lewis and Vikram Pandit. Good.

-A Democratic Congressman from a district that Obama won by a huge margin is obstructing any chance of saving the climate. And he wants to be governor. Awesome! Don't elect this guy, Hawaii.

The march towards equality continues

2009-05-05T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today was another great day in the fight for human rights and equality for GLBT people. Marriage equality for same-sex couples moved forward in three localities.

In Washington, DC the city council voted 12-1 to recognize same-sex marriages performed out of state potentially setting up the issue for a vote in Congress. The Mayor, Adrian Fenty has said he will sign it.

In Maine marriage equality easily passed the Maine House with some very conservative members in support.

In New Hampshire the State House Judiciary Committee approved the State Senate's marriage equality bill.

Tomorrow the full New Hampshire State House and Maine State Senate will vote on marriage equality. Both bodies have recently passed marriage equality legislation but need to vote for it again beacuse the other chamber has amended the legislation. Then it will go on to two Democratic governors: Maine's John Baldacci and New Hampshire's John Lynch. Both have expressed opposition to marriage equality in the past but have not said they will veto marriage equality if it comes to their desks. I remain hopefully that both will stand on the right side of history but any phone calls to them from in state residents will be very important in getting them to sign the bills.

Even less then 5 years this kind of stuff would have been unthinkable. The Democratic presidential nominee was campaigning in favor of anti-marriage equality constitutional amendments in Missouri and other states and only Massachusetts allowed same-sex marriages. Now four states have marriage equality with Maine and New Hampshire possibly being added to that list within a week. If Jon Corzine wins re-election in 2009 New Jersey will pass marriage equality, additionally New York, California, DC, Minnesota, Washington State and maybe Rhode Island have active efforts underway to win marriage equality. I think it's quite possible that all of those states and potentially more will legalize marriage equality for same sex couples in the next two years or so, if we work hard enough.

The march towards equality continues!

El Tinklenberg will also take on Michelle Bachmann

2009-05-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

Photo by Aaron Landry

The second candidate to jump in against Bachmann in as many days is El Tinklenberg who has ran twice for the seat, in 2006 when he lost the DFL nod to Patty Wetterling and in 2008 when he won the DFL and IP nods but lost to Bachmann in the general. He has started calling local DFLers in the past days telling them he is in.

Tinklenberg has been mulling this over since his loss in November. He had over $452,898 in campaign funds left over at the end of his campaign and has been talking to local party officials, unions and the DCCC (Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the national party outlet for electing Democrats to the House). Since the election he's donated over $250,000 of that to the DCCC and also sponsored the Humphrey Dinner. Previously he said he would make a announcement in July but I expect Reed's entrance sped up his entry.

Lots of district DFL activists didn't think Tinklenberg ran a good campaign last time around. To his credit he has acknowledged that he made mistakes and has said he will try to avoid the mistakes made in the 08 campaign but it remains to see what that means. He will have a uphill climb convincing many DFL activists that he will be able to run a stronger campaign this time around.

A third candidate is said to be considering the race. I haven't been able to confirm this but it is rumored to be Sen. Tarryl Clark. Whoever ends up the nominee will have a tough race ahead if we are going to dump Bachmann and I think these thoughts hold whoever it is. In addition it's extremely important that whoever wins the DFL nod articulates a clear, positive case for why they should be elected to Congress not just rely on being the anti-Bachmann.

Maureen Reed to run against Michelle Bachmann

2009-05-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

Could 2010 be the year we finally Dump Bachmann?

Political Muse of Liberal in the Land of Conservative is reporting (and I have been able to independently confirm) that 2006 Independence Party Lt. Governor Nominee Dr. Maureen Reed spoke to a meeting of the 6th District DFL tonight and announced that she will be running against Rep. Michelle Bachmann as a DFL candidate in 2010.

This is a very interesting development. Reed would be a very strong candidate. First. Who is she?

Dr. Maureen Reed currently serves as a diplomate in internal medicine with the American Board of Internal Medicine and a fellow of the American College of Physicians. She formerly served as medical director for HealthParners and as a member and chair of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents. In 2006 she ran for Lt. Governor on the Independence Party ticket with Peter Hutchinson. If she does indeed run she would be the first candidate to announce a run against Bachmann so far this cycle. 2006 and 2008 DFL candidate El Tinklenberg is also rumored to be mulling a run.

However I don't believe a Democrat is likely to beat Bachmann unless one of three things happens: Minnesota passes fusion voting in time for the 2010 election, Minnesota passes Instant Runoff Voting in time for the 2010 election or only two major parties run candidates on the ballot in 2010.

First of all. Why does one of those things need to happen for a Democrat to have a strong chance of winning? In Minnesota three political parties have qualified for major party status. The Republican Party (which will nominate Michelle Bachmann should she run for re-election), the DFL Party and the Independence Party.

In 2006 El Tinklenberg was endorsed by both the DFL Party and the Independence Party. However Minnesota law does not allow candidates to appear on the ballot for multiple parties so Tinklenberg filed to appear on the ballot as a DFLer. You might expect no one to file for the Independence Party seeing as they'd already endorsed Tinklenberg, however someone named Bob Anderson plunked down the 300 bucks to file thus ensuring his appearance on the general election ballot as the Independence Party candidate.

In November Bachmann got only 46.4 percent of the vote. However she still won the election beacuse Anderson pulled 10 percent of the vote which split the anti-Bachmann vote and let her sneak into office again with a plurality. If this happens again and the Independence, DFL and Republican Parties all run candidates I do not think that Democrats have a good chance of winning the seat. However if a former Independence Party member like Reed runs and one of these three things happens I believe we can Dump Bachmann.

1. Pass into law and and implement Instant Runoff Voting before for 2010 elections

This is my preferred solution and probably the least likely to happen. It would allow both the DFL and IP to run candidates and allow voters to choose whoever they thought was the best candidate. As long as a majority picked the DFLer or IP candidate before Bachmann she would be defeated. However it seems very unlikely that this could happen before 2010 as Tim Pawlenty would surely veto it if it came to his desk.

2. Pass into law and implement fusion voting before the 2010 elections.

Fusion voting allows a candidate to be endorsed by multiple parties. It is currently in use in New York. Reed could then run for both the DFL and Independence Party endorsements and appear on the ballot and the candidate for both parties. Had this been the law in 2008 Tinklenberg would have appeared on the ballot for the DFL and IP and I believe he'd be the congressman currently.

Unlike Instant Runoff Voting fusion would not require replacing the current machines and so it might have a better chance of passing but I still doubt it will be made a priority and get Pawlenty's signature before 2010.

3. Have only two major party candidates on teh ballot in 2010

Of the three I believe this one is the most achievable beacuse it does not require a change in law that could be blocked by Pawlenty.

First Reed or another candidate would need to secure the backing of both the DFL and Independence Party as Tinklenberg did. They would then need to make sure that unlike in 2008 no other Independence Party candidate filed and thus put three major party candidates on the ballot.

It may not be necessary to do anything to make sure that happens. Anderson was the only person to file as a Independence Party candidate after Tinklenberg had won the official IP endorsement and perhaps no one would do the same this time making sure the IP had no candidate on the ballot. However it's always possible that someone WOULD file thus potentially making a split outcome that sends Michelle Bachmann back to Congress.

So how to prevent that possibility? I see only one legal way. Run a front candidate. Now I know that doesn't sound very nice but if Reed or another candidate wins both the DFL and IP endorsements and wants to win in November I think it needs to happen. Essentially assuming that does happen someone needs to file for the IP primary on a platform of dropping out to make sure the officially endorsed IP candidate doesn't lose in the general. If it turns out no one else files they can end their campaign up to two days after the filing deadline, if someone else does file they have to win the primary and then they can drop out leaving the November ballot with just two major party candidates and giving the DFL and Independence Parties and chance to unseat the worst member of Minnesota's delegation to Washington.

Personally I think the final option is the most realistic. If we want to Dump Bachmann Democrats, IP members, independents and sane Republicans are going to need to join together. Dr. Reed is well positioned to do just that. It will be interesting to see how her campaign plays out.

UPDATE: Political Muse is reporting and I have been able to confirm that she did indeed speak to the CD6 meeting tonight and officially announce her campaign. No video but my source says she sounded a theme very simular to what I said above. We have to unite the DFL and IP parties and put together a coalition that also includes independents and moderate Republicans if we want to win in the 6th. Here's a note that Muses's source sent:

Yes she announced officially.

I talked to her quite a bit and she is really a good 'people person', listener and has a good handle on health care, job creation and the mortgage crisis.

She calls herself a 'blue dog' which turned some off, but I'm willing to give her a chance.

She understands the need to gain both the DFL and Indepence party endorsements and understands that other IP candidates need to be out of the mix. However knows legally she can't really do anything about it. But she has been a big part of the IP party so her influence may mean something.

In addition I've been able to confirm that she has already started building a campaign staff and will be making hires in the upcoming weeks. As I said before, it will be a very interesting race. We'll keep you updated.

HUGE Victory for marriage equality in Maine!

2009-04-28T12:39:00.000-07:00

Local TV is reporting that the Maine Judiciary Committee has voted 11-2 to pass LD 1020 which would establish marriage equality in Maine. One member of the panel, Republican Sen. David Hastings, voted to send the bill to voters for a public referendum. Four members of the panel are Republicans. That means at least one voted for marriage equality.

This is a huge victory. Marriage equality will now almost certainly either become law this year or be on the ballot in 2010. The Maine Senate has a 18-17 Democratic majority. If it passes there it will have a very strong chance of passing the more liberal state house. Then it heads to Democratic governor John Baldacci. Baldacci has been opposed in the past but now says he's keeping a open mind. Only time can tell but I don't think he will veto it if it comes to his desk. He's not running for re-election and I doubt he'd want to be remembered as the Democrat who stood in the way of equality.

Equality is also very likely to be headed to the ballot in 2010. Even Republicans are now favoring that. There are two ways that could happen. The legislature could send it straight to the ballot or it could pass marriage equality and then the forces of hate would attempt a repeal referendum. So no matter what we are going to be gearing up for a ballot campaign that will not be easy. We can't sit by and watch and repeat the mistakes that we made on Prop 8 in California. We have to change hearts and minds and be proactive. If you don't live in Maine you can still help by sending a donation to Equality Maine which has launched a major campaign to win marriage equality and is doing great work. If you live in Maine you can go here, type in your zip code and town and contract your legislator in favor of marriage equality.

And on a related note, New Hampshire's State Senate will be voting on marriage equality tomorow. It has already passed the State House. It's not looking good but if you live in New Hampshire please click here, find your Senator and call them. Let's win!

Sick

2009-04-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

A scary world for them =

-The world being a safe place for gay people

-People being open about their sexuality and gender identification.

-Accurate portrayals of happy gay families.

-Other bad things include tolerance, piercings, diversity, courage, compassion, pride and equality.

In their sick and twisted world god loves you but he doesn't love who you are. They use "studies" to show that gays are inferior, remember anyone else using "studies" to show that any other groups are inferior? In their world hate, bullying and bigotry and accepted and encouraged.

It's sick, disgusting and wrong.

In California last November these forces of hate used their fear tactics, caught us all by surprise and passed Prop 8, banning marriage equality in California. In 2010 their will almost certainly be a measure on the ballot to repeal Prop 8 in 2010 and it will be a close fight. The forces of hate are gearing up with a false and fearmongering ad. Luckily the Courage Campaign, one of the best progressive groups in California, is fighting back by holding "Camp Courage" training camps around the state modeled off Camp Obama and Camp Wellstone to train activists on how to fight for equality. But they need money to put these on all over the state. If you want to fight back against these sick, fear mongering bigots send the Courage Campaign a donation. Whatever you can afford, 5 bucks or 5 thousand bucks. Don't let hate win.

OH-Sen: Voinovich to call it quits

2009-01-11T12:21:00.001-08:00

So says Politico

Ohio Republican George Voinovich is expected to announce Monday that he won't seek re-election to the Senate in 2010.

Cue the music

This is retirement number four for Big Bad John and Co. just five days into the 11th Congress. In addition to that everyone knows that Kay Bailey Hutchison will make a run for governor and may resign to focus on that. Democrats have legitimate chances to pick up all of them.

Republicans likely to take a shot at the seat include Rob Portman and John Kasich. Democrats have a large field of potential candidates including Rep. Tim Ryan and Rep. Betty Sutton but the CW in Ohio says that Lt. Governor Lee Fisher will run and clear the field with Gov. Ted Strickland's backing.

The Republicans so far are dropping like flies. Big Bad John Deathwatch Part 1?

Also at this point in the 2008 cycle no Republican had announced their retirement. Wayne Allard announced his retirement on January 15th, 2007. The next retirement wasn't until August 31. In 2006 only Bill Frist retired for the Republicans. If I remember correctly Democrats won quite a few seats in those elections, imagine what 2010 will look like.

I'm back

2008-12-22T21:41:00.000-08:00

I guess.

Been over a month since I've posted here, didn't really go anywhere though and I doubt my loyal readership of maybe 1 missed me too much.

I'm now a "frontpager" at the newly launched and totally awesome Minnesota Progressive Project which is in my humble and totally biased opinion the best state blog (or will be on Jan 1 when the legendary RK closes down).

So yeah, I'll try to be a bit more regular now.

Taking a look at my predictions

2008-11-12T17:00:00.000-08:00

It's been a little bit more then a week since the elections and I'm finally starting to recover so let's take a look at how my predictions turned out.

Gubernatorial: Nailed it.

Presidential: Got everything right except for Indiana and NE-02 which Obama won and Missouri which it looks like Obama lost but still has not been called. Only one off for the electoral college count though.

Senate: Nailed it in every called race so far. Votes are still being counted and recounts will probably happen in Alaska and Minnesota. There will be a runoff in Georgia.

House: Off by a lot. We kept PA-11 but lost LA-06 and KS-02 and didn't pick up FL-25, IL-10, IN-03, MN-03, MN-06, MO-09, NJ-07, WA-08, AZ-03 and OH-02. So I was wrong on 13 races. There is a runoff in LA-04 and votes are still being counted in OH-15 and CA-04, I predicted the Dems would win all three of them, right now that's looking likely in OH-15 and LA-04 but not quite as likely in CA-04.

Right now though I missed 16 races out of 536 or about 97 percent. Not bad, not great.

Populista Report Final Predictions: House Elections

2008-11-03T11:22:00.000-08:00

Now finally for the exiting and long list of House elections.

Republican Pickups: FL-16, TX-22, PA-11

Democratic Pickups: NY-13, AZ-01, VA-11, NY-25, AK-AL, CO-04, FL-24, IL-11, MI-09, MI-07, NY-29, OH-16, OH-15, NC-08, NM-01, NM-02, CA-04, CT-04, FL-08, FL-25, ID-01, IL-10, IN-03, LA-04, MD-01, MN-03, MN-06, MO-09, NJ-03, NJ-07, NV-03, OH-01, PA-03, WA-08, AL-02, AZ-03, OH-02, VA-02, VA-05.

Net Democratic Gain: +36

Maybe a little optimistic. But I think that's going to be pretty close.

Populista Report Final Predictions: Senate Elections

2008-11-03T11:20:00.000-08:00

Now for the very important Senate elections.

Republican Pickups: None

Democratic Pickups: Virgina, New Mexico, Colorado, New Hampshire, Alaska, Oregon, North Carolina, Minnesota

And I also predict the Georgia Senate race will go into a runoff and Jim Martin will win it but I'll have final predictions closer to that election.

Populista Report Final Predictions: Gubernatorial Elections

2008-11-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

Next up the less exiting gubernatorial races.

Republican Pickups: None

Democratic Pickups: Missouri

Polls show close elections for Democratic candidates in Washington and North Carolina but both will hold their seats.

Populista Report Final Predictions: Presidential Election

2008-11-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

I'm going to make some final predictions for the presidential race and the race for the House, Senate and Governors races, mostly for fun with a little bit of relying on polls and stuff like that and a little bit of gut. First up the presidential election.

Electoral Votes: Barack Obama 364, John McCain 174

Popular Vote: Obama +6.9

McCain Pickups: None

Obama Pickups: Iowa, New Mexico, Colorado, Nevada, Missouri, Ohio, Virgina, North Carolina and Florida

I'm a little unsure about North Carolina and Missouri but I'm going to call them for Barack. I think he'll come up just short in Indiana, Montana and Georgia.

Obama's campaign shatters records

2008-11-01T19:15:00.001-07:00

I just got off a call with 20,000 teams leaders from around the country that Obama Field Director Jon Carson hosted. We heard from David Ploffe and Barack himself. To keep us occupied while we waited for Barack Jon told us some of what we've done.

Some of what we've done:

-1.9 million voters registered.

-1,119,022 GOTV shifts filled.

-Took the first three weeks to get to the first 2 million contacts. 1 week to get to the next 2 million and 2.5 million a week since.

-13.3 million voter contacts. That's actual conversations with voters. About 1 out of every 10 people who vote in this election will have been personally contacted by the Barack Obama campaign. Considering most of this has been going on in battleground states the number there is probably something closer to 1 of every three voters or even half the voting age population in super battlegrounds like Virgina.

Early Voting:

Not sure I got this all right but here's some of what I think I heard.

-In North Carolina Democrats have a 500,000 voter advantage as of yesterday.

-In Nevada we've got a 13% advantage in early voting. In 2004 it was only 4%

-In Colorado where Republicans always had big leads in early voting we now have a 25,000 lead in early voting.

-In Florida 3.8 million early votes have been cast already. And Democrats have a 7% advantage among those voters.

Barack's Message to Us:

Barack sounded unbelievably tired. He said we've come so far and it would be a shame not to finish strong. That people have registered lots of new voters before but making sure they turn out is the hard part. And he had three requests.

-Increase your commitment even more. We can sleep after the election, and believe me, I could use sleep just as much as any of you.

-Bring a freind. Prove the doubters wrong and lets make sure the new voters turn up this time.

-Keep people fired up. There's long lines across the country and they will be even longer on election day. Keep everyone fired up and motivated and lets fight for every vote.

And finally he borrowed a phrase from Markos and told us all to leave it all on the field. We've got McCain at his 5 yard line. Let's finish the job.

And then he said thank you to all of us for the work we're doing.

So let's do this.

The Obama campaign has a nice splash you should go to, punch in your zip code and get involved locally if your in a competitive state. If not you can still help out by using the easy online phonebanking tool or by making a final donation.

This is it. Less then 72 hours until the polls close. They might be the most important 72 hours in our lifetimes.

Fired up!

Why does Sarah Palin pal around with felons?

2008-10-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

The news is just breaking, Alaska Senator Ted Stevens has been convicted of lying about free home renovations and other gifts he received from a wealthy oil contractor. He was found guilty on all seven counts of making false statements on Senate financial documents. This probably dooms him and the Populista Report has changed the ranking of the Alaska Senate race to "Likely Democratic."

But this has bigger implications then that. On November 4th everywhere in American John McCain and Sarah Palin will be on the ballot and Sarah Palin would not have gotten to that place had it not been for Ted Stevens. Sarah Palin is a Ted Stevens Republican. I have written a lot about that fact here's a overview of their tight working relationship.

-Sarah Palin served as a director for a 527 group organized by Stevens right as Palin was building her statewide profile for a statewide run.

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin began building clout in her state's political circles in part by serving as a director of an independent political group organized by the now embattled Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens.

Palin's name is listed on 2003 incorporation papers of the "Ted Stevens Excellence in Public Service, Inc.," a 527 group that could raise unlimited funds from corporate donors. The group was designed to serve as a political boot camp for Republican women in the state. She served as one of three directors until June 2005, when her name was replaced on state filings.

Palin's relationship with Alaska's senior senator may be one of the more complicated aspects of her new position as Sen. John McCain's running mate; Stevens was indicted in July 2008 on seven counts of corruption.

-Video of Stevens endorsing Palin in a ad was uncovered. (It has since been scrubbed from her site)

-As a long time freind and supporter Stevens was naturally very happy that his freind Palin was picked as VP.

It's a great day for the nation and Alaskans. Governor Palin has proven herself as a bright, energetic leader for our State and will bring the same energy to the Vice Presidency. She will serve our country with distinction - the first Alaskan and first woman on the Republican ticket. I share in the pride of all Alaskans.

-After all, Stevens and Palin go way back.

I have known and worked with Sarah for over a decade from her service as Mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, in her role as president of the Alaska Conference of Mayors, and most recently as our Governor. She is attentive to her job and family, brings people together, and is able to make tough decisions.
It may be a strong endorsement, but it's about as useful as "Brownie" saying you are qualified to handle emergency. But I guess friends stick together, when Stevens was indicted Palin said it "would be premature" to call for his resignation.

-Palin has supported the infamous Bridge to Nowhere that Ted Steven's championed.

-Palin's campaign manager and chief of staff recently signed on to run his campaign.

-Blogger Dean Barker dug up this

"It is so encouraging to hear again that Senator Stevens and I are singing from the same sheet of music," said Governor Palin.

-With a little digging I found more.

The Senator and I are working closely together

Keep in mind this is a indicted, corrupt and unpopular senator we are talking about. But there is more.

Over the course of the last few months, the Governor has unveiled a multi-phase statewide energy plan that puts Alaskans first and mirrors the Senator’s efforts on the Senatorial level.

-The Jed Report has uncovered some interesting video footage

-Also I found these videos featured prominently on Stevens channel

Let's face it. Ted Stevens and Sarah Palin are political allies. They have had some disagreements but both have helped each other out at key periods of their political careers. Ted Stevens has been convicted on federal on corruption charges and betrayed the public trust. Sarah Palin wants voters to put her a heartbeat away from leading the free world.

It's time to start being honest about that. And it's time to start thinking about if we want someone with such a troubling relationship like that so close to the presidency.

Sarah Palin has accused Barack Obama of "paling around with terrorists" based on shaky connections from decades ago and actions generations ago. Sarah Palin on the other hand has worked closely with a convicted felon up until a few months ago. So the question I have is this.

Why does Sarah Palin pal around with felons?

Panic! At the NRCC Part 2

2008-10-22T16:09:00.000-07:00

I've written before about the major scaling back at the Republican party and their campaign arm, the NRCC in particular as they scale back to try desperately to avoid the electoral devastation that awaits them in less then two weeks. At the point of my first post they had started scaling back in 8 districts. Since then they've scaled back in OH-06 and MI-09. Now today comes three more districts, CO-04, MN-06 and FL-24 bringing the total to 13 districts.

But there is more then that. A new GOP "Death List" has been leaked apparently top Republicans have left Republicans in the following districts for dead ranking them as likely gone

-New York 13
-Alaska
-Arizona 1
-Virginia 11
-New York 25
-Illinois 11
-Florida 24
-Michigan 7
-Nevada 3
-North Carolina 8

And apparently the list also finds 9 Republican seats "Leaning Democratic" and 22 seats ranked as tossups. Also 15 seats are marked as possible losses if there is a wave. The Republicans rankings look very close to ours. If anything they predict a bigger victory for Democrats then us.

It's not a good time to be a Republican.

The Populista Report House Race Rankings 10/21/08

2008-10-21T21:36:00.000-07:00

Here are the Populista Report's rankings for the House of Representatives. Any other race is not considered competitive. We currently project a net Democratic gain of 25-31 seats.

LIKELY D (10)
Open (NY-25)
Gillibrand (NY-20)
Hill (IN-09)
Foster (IL-14)
Marshall (GA-08)
Murphy (PA-08)
Open (OR-05)
Walz (MN-01)
Ellsworth (IN-08)
Altmire (PA-04)

LEAN D (12)
Open (VA-11)
Open (AZ-01)
Open (AL-05)
Childers (MS-01)
Yarmuth (KY-03)
Giffords (AZ-08)
Mitchell (AZ-05)
Open (OH-16)
Carney (PA-10)
Feeney (FL-24)
Open (IL-11)
Young (AK-AL)

TOSSUP (28)
Shea-Porter (NH-01)
Open (NY-26)
Kagen (WI-08)
Open (MN-03)
Kanjorski (PA-11)
Shays (CT-04)
Hayes (NC-08)
Open (AL-02)
Musgrave (CO-04)
Open (LA-04)
Walberg (MI-07)
Knollerberg (MI-09)
Open (NM-02)
Open (NM-01)
Open (NJ-03)
Open (NJ-07)
Porter (NV-03)
Open (MD-01)
Open (OH-15)
Cazayoux (LA-06)
Boyda (KS-02)
Reichert (WA-08)
English (PA-03)
Lampson (TX-22)
L. Diaz-Balart (FL-21)
M. Diaz-Balart (FL-25)
Kuhl (NY-29)
Sali (ID-01)

LEAN R (13)
Drake (VA-02)
Schmidt (OH-02)
Chabot (OH-01)
Graves (MO-06)
Open (MO-09)
Kirk (IL-10)
Open (WY-AL)
Open (CA-04)
Capito (WV-02)
Shadegg (AZ-03)
Open (KY-02)
Culberson (TX-07)
Goode (VA-05)

LIKELY R (9)
Bilbary (CA-50)
Boustany (LA-07)
Garnett (NJ-05)
Buchanan (FL-13)
Dent (PA-15)
McCaul (TX-10)
Wolf (VA-10)
Kline (MN-02)
Mahoney (FL-16)

The Populista Report Senate Race Rankings

2008-10-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

SOLID D (12)
Pryor (AR)
Biden (DE)
Durbin (IL)
Harkin (IA)
Kerry (MA)
Levin (MI)
Baucus (MT)
Reed (RI)
Rockefeller (WV)
Johnson (SD)
Open (VA)
Lautenberg (NJ)*

LIKELY D (2)
Open (NM)
Landrieu (LA)

LEAN D (4)
Open (CO)
Open (NH)
Smith (OR)
Dole (NC)

TOSSUP (4)
Stevens (AK)
Coleman (MN)
Wicker (MS)
Chambliss (GA)

LEAN R (1)
McConnell (KY)

LIKELY R (3)
Open (NE)
Collins (ME)
Inhofe (OK)

SOLID R (9)
Sessions (AL)
Open (ID)*
Roberts (KS)*
Cochran (MS-A)
Graham (SC)
Alexander (TN)
Cornyn (TX)*
Enzi (WY-A)
Barrasso (WY-B)

*A race to watch. Could conceivably turn into a competitive race.

The Populista Report Gubernatorial Race Rankings: 10/21/08

2008-10-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

SOLID D (4)
Schweitzer (MT)
Lynch (NH)
Manchin (WV)
Open (DE)

LIKELY D (1)
Open (MO)

LEAN D (2)
Gregoire (WA)

TOSSUP (1)
Open (NC)

LEAN R (1)
Daniels (IN)

LIKELY R (1)
Dougles (VT)

SOLID R (2)
Hoven (ND)
Huntsman (UT)

Wishing "Toot" Well

2008-10-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

Barack Obama is taking a few days off the campaign trail to spend time with his ailing grandmother Madelyn Dunham. The reports do not look good for her condition. Let's hope that she will live to see her little Barry elected president. My best wishes are with her and the Obama family.

Google CEO Eric Schmidt endorses Obama

2008-10-20T20:11:00.000-07:00

Not really unexpected, but good to hear anyways. Schmidt is one of the best businessman and one of the most visionary leaders in our country today and has made Google a real model company, in my humble opinion. He also does great work as chair of the New America Foundation. While we're on the subject of Google, the LATimes has some fun speculation on if they'll make a move into energy.

Colin Powell slams Michelle Bachmann

2008-10-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today Colin Powell endorsed Barack Obama quite eloquently on Meet the Press.

But why did the lifelong Republican endorse Barack Obama, a Democrat? In part beacuse of our very own agent of hate, Michelle Bachmann.

This business from the congresswoman from Minnesota saying, let’s examine all congressman to see who is pro-American or not pro-American. We’ve got to stop this kind of nonesense and pull ourselves together. And remember that our great strength is in our unity and diversity and so, that really was driving me.

I've had some disagreements with Colin Powell in the past to put it lightly. But he hit the nail on the head. Even Colin Powell, a man who probably could have become the Republican nominee for President in 1996 realizes the hateful fear mongering of Michelle Bachmann hurts our image abroad and hurts the political debate in our country by bringing it into the gutter.

Hopefully Powell will take some time out of his busy schedule and come to Minnesota to endorse and campaign for El Tinklenberg, the common sense candidate who is running against Michelle Bachmann.

But even if Powell isn't able to do that, I hope you donate to El Tinklenberg through the Netroots for El page. So far we've raised 1,415 from 28 donors and I've set a goal of 2,300, the equivalent of one maxed out big money donor. Let's prove that a politics of hope can win and can defeat a agent of hate like Michelle Bachmann

Donate to El Tinklenberg!

Photo by Aaron Landry

A Minnesotans thoughts on Michelle Bachmann

2008-10-17T23:16:00.000-07:00

Michelle Bachmann has turned into quite a hot topic here in the netroots after her disgraceful performance on Hardball that that you can watch for yourself here.

It's hard to even begin on how horrifying that McCarthyesque, hateful interview was. But a lot of us Minnesotans have known about Michelle Bachmann and her hateful, extreme ways for years. Thankfully we've got a real shot at beating her this year, and you can help send her and her hateful brand of politics packing. Keep reading to find out how!

The Bachmann Record:
First a little more about Michelle Bachmann and why it is so critical that we win this race. You already know about her shameful performance on Hardball. But Michelle Bachmann has been embarrassing Minnesotans for a long time on a lot more then just that.

Blames Economic Woes on Minorities:
Just recently she blamed the financial crises on minorities,

Anti-Gay Zelot:
She was Minnesota's leading anti-gay politician and now she's a favorite of the anti-gay movement. When there was a march for GLBT rights on the day the Minnesota legislature voted down a hateful anti-gay constitutional amendment of hers she literally hid in the bushes and spied on them, I'M NOT KIDDING! During her rallies for her hateful amendment people carried signs calling for the murder of gay and lesbian people and she's since said she's proud of that rally.

Energy Dumb:
Bachmann is a global warming denier despite all the evidence out there. She also thinks if those horrible Democrats didn't take over Congress gas would magically be 2 dollars a gallon. Yes she's from the "Drill Baby Drill" school of thought.

Worst Person in the World:
Michelle has been appearing frequently on Keith Olbermann's Worst Person in the World segment for over two years now. Here was her first time

and here is her latest

If you want to know more about why we need to Dump Bachmann head over to the good folks at Dump Bachmann who have been working hard to do just that since before she was even in Congress!

Send El to Congress!

Photo by Aaron Landry
Thankfully we've got someone great running to replace her. Elwyn Tinklenberg. El was a city councilman and mayor of Blaine (a big city in the district), Minnesota Transportation Commissioner and is currently president of the The Tinklenberg Group a transportation consulting firm. He's a big advocate for public transit, strongly pro-union and for smart economic policies, supports universal healthcare, is for ending the war in Iraq and is a strong advocate for a transition alternative energy and a green economy.

But he win?

Yes! A recent poll showed him only 4 points behind Bachmann or within the margin of error with 15 percent undecided. El's got a perfect profile for the district but while Bachmann has raised 2 million as of the end of Q3 Tinklenberg has only managed to raise 1 million. In short, he needs our help to get his message out and win.

So donate!
Every little bit counts.

I set up a fundraising page with a goal of 10,000 so we can show Michelle Bachmann that we reject her politics of hate and so we can tell El Tinklenberg and his campaign that we embrace his politics of hope.

So donate to El Tinklenberg!

If Bachmann wins this race it will be a lot harder to beat her in the future and her politics of hate and fear could be in Congress for a generation. This is our best shot to prevent that. Michelle Bachmann is a disgrace to Minnesota and decent people everywhere in our nation.

So please, please. Donate to El Tinklenberg.

Minnesota Daily Political Roundup: 10/16/2008

2008-10-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

A new poll that shook up the 6th congressional district race, a new ad in that race that is downright embarrassing, debates, awkward policy, Hillary. Lots of stuff happening today in the Minnesota political world. And we also have news of Norm Coleman's disturbing ties to Saddam Hussein's former lobbyist and Barack Obama's deeply troubling ties to crazy delicious breakfast food. All that and more in today's Minnesota daily political roundup.

MN-06:

-The biggest news of the day is a new poll of the 6th district congressional race that has Bachmann leading Tinklenberg 42-38, basically a statistical tie! I had been down on our hopes in the district but now I think we have a fighting shot!

-Doug Grow has a interesting article on Michelle Bachmann in MinnPost

-MPR also takes a look at the race.

-The two candidates sparred in a debate tonight.

-Michelle Bachmann has a new ad that could very well be the worst ad I've ever seen.

Senate race:

-Dean Barkley proposed something related to election financing today. It's very, odd though. The great Jeff Rosenberg has more.

-TheBigE has some questions about Gander Mountain.

-Hillary Clinton will campaign for Al Franken

-Sean Broom raises some disturbing questions over Barack Obama's ties to crazy delicious breakfast

-Norm Coleman took money from Saddam's lobbyist.

Other Congressional Races:
-There was a debate yesterday in the hotly contested race in the forth district.

-Tim Walz is fighting for the people of the first district again.

Presidential:
-The Independence Party might endorse a candidate for President. Let's hope Obama is able to snag that.

-Mary Pawlenty is going to hit the campaign trail.

-Hillary is headed to the Iron Range to campaign for Barack.

-Todd Palin campaigned on the Iron Range.

Other:

-Minnesota Independent takes a look at Minnesota's biggest givers.

-The single craziest member of the US Senate was in Minnesota tonight.

Also at MNBlue

Debate Reactions Part 2: McXplosion Edition

2008-10-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

Since the other thread is getting long, here is a new one.

Focus Groups/Polls:

Fox News:

Stan Greenberg:

Pre-debate:

McCain: 54 favorable / 34 unfavorable
Obama: 42 favorable / 42 unfavorable

Post-debate:

McCain: 50 favorable / 48 unfavorable
Obama: 72 favorable / 22 unfavorable

Politico/Insider Advantage:

Who won?

Obama 49 / McCain 46

Pundits:

Marc Ambinder: Tonight, we saw a McXplosion. Every single attack that Sen. McCain has ever wanted to make, he took the opportunity tonight to make. Around 30 minutes in, McCain seemed to surrender the debate to his frustrations, making it seem as if he just wanted the free television. LINK

Ezra Klein: McCain looks angrier and more petulant than any participant in any major debate I've watched. Watching him try to stay seated is like watching a furious kid try and obey a timeout. He can hardly hold himself still. LINK

Josh Marshall: It seems like we've now seen McCain's Ayers/ACORN primal scream. I'm not sure Obama knocked anything out of the park. But at the end of it, I don't think McCain landed any solid punches either. And McCain was often incoherent and a bit kitchen-sinkish. Basically a draw, though if recent polls are any indication, the draw in debate terms may hurt McCain since people do not like McCain's attacks. LINK

James Fallows: ...the ten minute or twelve minutes that began with Obama looking at McCain and talking about crowds at Palin rallies saying "Kill him" were riveting TV and seemed to reveal purified versions of the persona each candidate has been presenting through the previous sessions. This debate may matter less in the long-term outcome than the others, since that's typically true of final debates. But because the contenders are engaging each other more directly -- being at the same table, being physically so close to each other, having more trouble containing their emotions, being aware that the whole thing is almost over -- in human terms this is actually the most interesting. Link

Megan McArdle: Okay, I wasn't voting for him anyway, but I find McCain's focus on attacking Obama, rather than his own policy, unbelievably grating. His strongest performance of the night has been talking about the benefits of his own health plan, drawing a reasonable distinction between his philosophy and Obama's, and coherently explaining that difference, without resorting to either whining or calumny. LINK

Outside the Beltway: Overall, I don’t see how McCain helped himself tonight, much less hit the home run he needed to put himself back into this thing. LINK

Kevin Drum: I know I'm partisan, but McCain seemed completely out of his depth tonight. He was flitting from point to point all night without ever putting together a coherent argument, and grabbing miscellaneous attacks from the rolodex in his head whenever some bright idea popped into his mind. His energy level was weirdly erratic, tired at times but then suddenly perking up whenever he got annoyed by something and remembered some zinger that he wanted to fire off. LINK

Jonathan Chait: McCain lost the overall message of the debate. The cost of McCain's sharper tone was that he sounded more like a dogmatic Republican. Obama was softer, let many points go, but was much more effective at sounding like a moderate. LINK

BeliefNet: OK, that's over. And so is the McCain campaign. He was more aggressive than he's been so far, and he came close to landing some blows on Obama. But he never really connected, and for the most part this debate was as platitudinous as they all have been. McCain came off as sour, agitated and petulant. Obama -- man, nothing rattles that guy. McCain was two tics away from a vein-popping "You can't handle the truth!" Jack Nicholson moment, I felt. At one point, I thought: Which one of these men would I want in the White House when the 3 a.m. phone call comes in? Link

Obama wins again: Post debate reactions and call to action

2008-10-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Digg it!

The final 2008 presidential debate between Barack Obama and John McCain has concluded. And as promised, McCain went on the attack, trying to distract the American people from the real issues by using fear.

It's the same old typical Rovian campaign. But I don't think that's going to work this time. Once again Obama is being called the winner by people all over the political spectrum. Keep reading to see some of the reactions that are coming in and how you can take action to make sure John McCain's politics of fear.

Snap Polls/Focus Groups:

CNN Focus Group:

Who won the debate?

Barack Obama 58 / John McCain 31

Did you change your vote

3 yes's

All for Obama.

Who expressed their views clearly:

Obama 66 / McCain 26

Favorables/Unfavorables:

McCain Faves Before Debate: 51
McCain Faves After Debate: 49
McCain Unfaves Before: 45
McCain Unfaves After: 49

Obama Faves Before Debate: 63
Obama Faves After Debate: 66
Obama Unfaves After: 33

CBS Focus Group:

Who won?

Obama 53 / McCain 22

Who shares your values?

Before debate: Obama 54 percent

After debate: Obama 62 percent

Who are you voting for:

28 Obama / 14 McCain

Fox News:

Obama won (looking for more info)

Did you switch?

4 switches. All for Obama.

Media Curves:

Pundits/Blogs:

Taegan Goodard: Sen. Barack Obama ultimately won the debate by repeatedly bringing it back to the issues. He occasionally lapsed into wonkish, policy speak, but it seemed to register well with the Ohio focus group CNN was tracking. It was refreshing that Obama understands the important issues facing the country. He did a much better job than McCain simply explaining his own policy positions. LINK

ABC News: Sen. Obama also gets specific right away -- looking right to the camera with his bailout package for the middle class. And if you're looking for the first candidate to draw a distinction tonight, it's Obama, not McCain. LINK

Ari Mebler: Barack Obama never delivered a knockout punch during the final presidential debate, but it did not matter. Obama won a T.K.O. -- defeating his opponent without ever knocking him out. LINK

Washington Post (Chris Cillizza): Obama is ON message. A question about campaign finance and nasty campaigning becomes an economic answer. LINK

Bob Shrum: This performance was embarrassing. Put McCain out of his misery -- hold the election now. LINK

TIME: "Jobs." And the dial lines go WHANGO! Obama should work "jobs" into every answer, including any about Bill Ayers. LINK

CNN (Bill Schneider): Obama's answers during this first line of questioning appear crisp and clear, while McCain's sound disconnected and rambling. LINK

ABC News: …McCain is still saying he'd balance the budget within four years? This is silliness, and I think McCain knows it. I look forward to his campaign explaining how, exactly, he'll do this while extending the Bush tax cuts and funding bailouts. LINK

National Review: A couple folks here have been saying that McCain is doing better than in the previous two debates. I wish it were true, but I just don't see it. I think a few times McCain has come across as spluttering. LINK

Washington Post Fact Check (Michael Dobbs): Joe the Plumber - John McCain raised the story of "Joe the Plumber" who ran into Barack Obama at a political rally in Toledo, Ohio, earlier this week. He depicted the plumber as an average American who will end up paying more taxes under the Obama plan. In fact, the plumber told Obama that he had plans to buy a company that would make more than $250,000 a year. Obama has conceded that his proposal to phase out the Bush tax cuts for high-income groups will lead to higher taxes for people making more than $250,000 a year. Obama told the plumber that he would face an increase in his marginal tax rate from 36 to 39 per cent, but Americans earning less than $250,000 a year would stand to gain under his proposal. LINK

Nate Silver: Congratulations, President Obama. LINK

NBC News (Mark Murray): McCain was wrong, however, when he said that 100% of his ads weren't negative. According to a recent study by the University of Wisconsin Advertising Project, 100% of McCain's ads have been negative. LINK

Washington Post Fact Check (Michael Dobbs): McCain exaggerated the closeness of the relationship between Obama and former Weather Underground founder Bill Ayers in claiming that his rival had "launched his political career" in Ayers' living room. It is true that Obama attended a coffee meeting at Ayers' home after he announced his intention to run for the state senate in September 2005. But according to Lynn Sweet of the Chicago Sun-Times, who has tracked Obama's political career closely, the Ayers' event was only one of a series of coffees in the Hyde Park community where he lived. The kickoff for Obama's Senate run came at a meeting in the Hyde Park Ramada Inn on Sept. 19, 1995. LINK

TIME: McCain is flat-out lying about Obama's health care plan. It is not government-run health care, and looks nothing like the Canadian system. LINK

Washington Post Fact Check (Glenn Kessler): John McCain made two assertions on corporate taxes, one that small businesses pay 50 percent of the taxes and the other that U.S. corporations are among the highest taxed in the world. Both are wrong. LINK

Washington Post Fact Check (Alec MacGillis): McCain said that ACORN, the large anti-poverty and affordable housing organization, is perpetrating one of the greatest voter frauds in the history of the country. This is greatly overstating the allegations that have been brought against the group in recent weeks. LINK

Washington Post (Chris Cillizza): The Fix- Again, lots of different attacks from McCain...hard for the average viewer to know what to take from debate. LINK

Also if you want to know the truth about the debate you can check here.

Time for action!:

Fed up with McCain's %100 negative, fear based campaign? Then take action! There are lots of ways you can help and we can't afford to sit on the sidelines any longer.

One way you can help right now is by donating. During the primaries some other bloggers and I started the Obamathon netroots fundraising drive. That has raised $63,376 so far. Can we get that to $75,000 by the end of tonight to show we won't put up with the politics of fear?

Yes we can!

Donate to the Obamathon!

Every little bit counts. 5 bucks or 500 bucks. Whatever you can give right now.

If you can't give or want to do more go to this site and click on your state. Find the office nearest to you and if your not yet involved, go there, they'll find some way you can help no matter what your talents are. If you can phonebank and canvass? Great. If you don't like doing that kind of stuff there is tons of data and other work to be done. I'm sure you can find something that will be fun and help get Barack Obama elected, the people at the office are always friendly and eager to help. It will be fun, trust me.

It's time for us all to step it. Barack's got us to this point, now it's up to us. I think this new ad from SEIU sums up the stakes very quickly.

Are you fired up?

Joe Biden is fired up

Donate to Barack Obama

UPDATE: Check out these images from Al Rodgers on DailyKos

Panic! At the Republican Party

2008-10-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

I wrote a few days ago about the National Republican Campaign Committee (NRCC) scaling back ad buys all around the country.

Well since then we've found out more.

The NRCC is scaling back their buy even MORE in Minnesota's third district and now only has one week reserved for Republican candidate Erik Paulsen.

The rumors I heard about OH-16 where correct. The NRCC has canceled almost a third of a million dollars of ad time in that district.

Following up on those stories the Politico reported that the NRCC is ditching it's "prized" recruits in Republican open seats to focus only on holding down Democratic gains by protecting incumbents.

And now the Republicans are getting worried about the Senate side of things too. First the report that the RNC would take out a 5 million dollar loan not to help McCain, but as a last resort to stop Democrats from getting 60 seats in the Senate and just now the news is breaking that they are pulling out of their only long shot hope to knock off a Democratic incumbent. Even in Colorado where they hoped to hold on to a Republican seat they are pulling out and I suspect we'll see more of this in the coming days.

And it's not just congressional races. The RNC is pulling it's McCain ads from Wisconsin and Maine after the McCain campaign pulled out of Michigan.

The Republicans are on their deathbed. We could be looking at a 60+ seat majority in the Senate, 100+ majority in the House and a 400+ EV landslide for Obama. This could all change, but right now things are looking good.

Minnesota Daily Political Roundup: 10/15/2008

2008-10-15T12:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've missed a few days. I had a big test, and you know, sometimes that comes first ;) Lots of stuff to catch up with.

Senate:

-Al Franken raised 4.4 million dollars in Q3. Coleman? 1.5 million. Wow, fantastic news.

-Stu Rothenberg has the race as a tossup.

-FiveThiryEight has it at Tilts Democratic

-Joe Lieberman, the "Democrat" who will get kicked out of the party at the end of the year is going to bat for Coleman.

-The Hill profiles Dean Barkley

-DSCC has a new ad out.

-Franken has two new ads

MN-06:

-El Tinklenberg has been added to the DCCC's Red to Blue program for competitive Democratic candidates, very good news.

-Michelle Bachmann ducked another debate

-And she's in a little bit of a scandal

-Tinklenberg has passed the 1 million mark for the race

-And released a web ad that if refined for TV could, IMO be a gamechanger.

MN-03:

-Kare11 and WCCO profile the race.

-The Humphrey Institute hosted Paulsen and Madia

-Erick Black takes on Erik Paulsen

-Madia has a new ad up.

Other:

-Voter registration is breaking records right and left.

-Everyone wants to be a election judge.

-Even some Republicans like the outdoors and arts.

-Surprise! People don't care about a three cent gas tax increase when it helps builds roads and bridges.

-Minnesota loves Michelle Obama I was at her TC event, it was amazing.

-MPR just put out the coolest campaign tool of the cycle. Check it out!

Crossposted at MNBlue

All around the world

2008-10-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

Interesting stuff is happening.

-Steve Clemons alerted me to the fact that the British Embassy in Washington has started a blog. It's actually surprisingly interesting. Hopefully this will become a trend. The internet has opened up a lot of information for anyone to see and interact with. Diplomatic issues have not generally been things that anyone except other diplomats can follow but the internet changes that.

-Conservative Canadian PM Stephen Harper will stay in power with a slightly stronger minority government which kind of sucks.

-Not sure what to make of this. Could the Middle East conflict simply die down beacuse people get tired of it? Somehow I doubt it will be that easy.

Obama and McCain even in West Virgina

2008-10-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

Wow.

InsiderAdvantage just released it's latest batch of polls and now has Obama behind McCain by just two in West Virgina, within the 4 point margin of error. This is a state Hillary Clinton won by 30 points and was never thought to be even remotely in reach.

Now it's a battleground. That's how much this race has shifted. Great news to all the great folks fighting the good fight in West Virgina.

Here are the rest of the poll numbers

Florida: Obama 48%, McCain 44%

Nevada: Obama 49%, McCain 46%

North Carolina: Obama 48%, McCain 46%

VA-05: Another fantastic ad out today

2008-10-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

Tom Perriello is one of my favorite congressional candidates in the country. He's got a amazing background, he's helped take down Liberian dictator Charles Taylor, was a major player in the peace and reconciliation process in Sierra Leone, helped found the online grassroots people-powered humanitarian movement Avaaz.org and many other things. Now he's running against Virgil Goode, a proud bigot and one of the worst if not the worst member of Congress. And he's been running some great ads created by the best ad firm in the country (IMO) Eichenbaum & Associates

Here is another great ad he's running

And what's Goode running ads about? That Tom used to have a scary beard.

It's fear mongering, plain and simple. But that's what Virgil Goode has built a career off.

It's a tough district to win but Virgina Gov. Tim Kaine won it in 2005 and I think Tom can win it too. The latest poll showed him down 13 which may sound like a lot but it's a 20 point gain since he started running ads.

With your help he can close that gap and win. Donate to him today.

FL-08: Another fantastic ad from Alan Grayson

2008-10-09T21:49:00.000-07:00

Really good campaign advertising can win elections. Paul Wellstone was a huge underdog when he first ran for Senate, this classic ad helped him win.

In Florida's Democratic primary Alan Grayson ran two of the best ads I've ever seen

As a result he won his primary big against a much better known Democrat. Now he's got a new ad out for the general election that's also fantastic.

Millions of dollars get wasted on ads like this

Grayson won't waste any money on crappy ads like that. He's also a very smart guy and would make a fantastic congressman. Drop him a few coins.

Minnesota Daily Political Roundup: 10/9/2008

2008-10-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

Senate Race

-Norm Coleman campaigned in New Ulm

-Al Franken is hitting Norm Coleman on Social Security.

-Franken, Coleman and Barkley will meet for their second debate on Saturday.

-After his negative ads went over horribly Coleman is trying to go positive with a new ad featuring his daughter.

-Eric Black has a lot more on "Suitgate"

- Mark Dayton slams Norm Coleman on oversight in a op-ed.

- Al Franken has a anti-negative campaigning ad out.

-The DSCC also has a new ad out

- Rasmussen has their latest poll of the Senate race out. Al Franken leads Norm Coleman 43-37 with Dean Barkley pulling in 17 percent. Coleman led in their last poll. I think Franken has gained the edge in this race.

Congressional Races

-Alliance for a Better Minnesota has a new ad hitting Michelle Bachmann on her ties to Bush.

-Ashwin Madia had a HUGE fundraising quarter in Q3. He raised nearly a million dollars bringing his total to over 2.1 million for the race so far. We don't know the exact numbers for Erik Paulsen but we know he hit 2 million on September 16th from a campaign e-mail.

-Healthcare for America Now will air ads against Erik Paulsen. I'll post it when I can get a copy.

-The first debate in the first district was today between Brian Davis and Tim Walz. You can watch some of it at The UpTake

Other:
-I agree with Jeff and Jeff. Please, please don't run for governor Matt Entenza. I'm begging you. Seriously.

-T Paw is hitting the road for State House GOPers.

Cross-posted at MNCampaignReport

Panic at the NRCC: House Republicans Scaling Back

2008-10-09T13:33:00.000-07:00

The National Republican Campaign Committee (NRCC) is in dire circumstances. It's being way outspent and outraised by it's Democratic counterpart the DCCC and Democrats seem likely to pick up another 20-30 seats this election even after their massive gains in 2006.

Things just got a whole lot worse though. Yesterday we learned that the NRCC was scaling back it's ad buy in MN-03. Today the good folks at New Mexico FBIHOP broke the news that the NRCC ad buy for New Mexico's first district has been cut by two thirds and the Rothenberg Political Report is reporting that they have scaled back their buy in NV-03.

This looked kind of like a trend. So I did some digging into places where the NRCC had been planning ads to see if there was more to the story.

Turns out there is. After checking with some local sources I've found out they've canceled buys in 8 different districts and I'm still digging for more. Here's the list of the districts and times that I've got cancellation confirmations in so far.

FL-16: 10/14-10/20 in West Palm and Ft. Myers
ID-1: 10/7-10/21 in Spokane
KS-02: 10/21-10/27 in all district markets
LA-06: 10/21-10/27 in Baton Rouge
MN-03: 10/14-10/20 in Minneapolis
NV-03: broadcast and cable buys 10/14-10/20
TX-22: 10/14-10/20 in Houston.
NM-01: 10/14-28 in Albuquerque

I'm hearing some stuff about OH-15, OH-16, LA-04, CO-04 and a few other districts that I'm working to confirm.

Not a good sign for Republican chances in November.

More soon...

Minnesota Daily Roundup - 10/8/08

2008-10-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

Lots of news in the Minnesota political world today. And since I'm a Minnesota political junkie I'm going to try to do a roundup of it daily.

MN-03:

-KSTP and SurveyUSA have a new poll out showing Democratic candidate Ashwin Madia leading Republican Erik Paulsen and Independence Party candidate David Dillon in the race for the open seat in the 3rd congressional district

SurveyUSA (10/6-7, 634 likely voters):

Ashwin Madia (D): 46
Erik Paulsen (R): 43)
David Dillon (IP): 8
(MoE: ±4%)

Those numbers are pretty close to a recent DCCC internal poll showing Madia leading by 44-39 which is surprising beacuse the KSTP/SurveyUSA polls of Minnesota have tended to have a Republican lean. Also they polled the presidential race in the 3rd district. Obama leads McCain by 49-47. Bush beat Kerry here by 51-48 in 2004. Full details of the poll are available here. Other interesting finds in the poll. Bush has a 28-68 approve/disapprove ratio in the district which should help Madia but current Representative Jim Ramstad has a 58-10 ratio which should help Paulsen. 66 percent say that the economy is the number one issue, all other issues are in single digits. 48 percent of voters say oil companies are to blame for high gas prices, nothing else comes close. Also when asked if they'd support a candidate favors offshore drilling as a energy solution or one who favors alternative energy the candidate who would favor alternative energy won 62-29.

-Tom Scheck over at Polinaut is reporting that the NRCC has scaled back their mid-October ad buy in support of Paulsen, and now only has $216,450 in reserved time for Paulsen but is buying $126,000 of ad time in the 6th district despite Michelle Bachmann having tons of cash and not being a target of the DCCC, interesting.

-So now Paulsen is getting desperate and calling Madia a lier.

MN-Sen:

-James Dobson's Focus on the Family PAC has a mailing out in support of Norm Coleman. You can view the PDF here.

-A new poll from MPR has Franken up 4

MN-06:

-Forum Communications has a nice series about the MN-06 race. One is a general profile of the race, one is a profile of Democratic/IP candiate Elwyn Tinklenberg and one is a profile of incumbent Republican Michelle Bachmann.

-The Star Tribune also looks at the race.

Presidential Election:

-Michelle Obama will be in Minnesota on Monday.

-Rasmussen's latest poll of Minnesota has Obama up 7.

-McCain is outspending Obama $608,000 to $121,000.

-MNPublius says he's going to double that amount.

Other Stuff:

-After being rejected overwhelmingly by the voters anti-Instant Runoff Voting activists are headed to court. Go IRV!

And that's the news for today.

Embarrassing

2008-10-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

I have to say, I almost feel sorry for this guy (Norm Coleman's campaign manager Cullen Sheehan)

Debate reactions part 2

2008-10-07T21:31:00.000-07:00

More debate reactions are pouring in so I'm making a new post.

Polls/Focus Groups:

MediaCurves:

1004 voters nationwide.

Who won the debate?

Independents: 52% Barack Obama / 34% John McCain / 14% Don't know
Democrats: 84% Barack Obama / 10% John McCain / 6% Don't know
Republicans: 68% John McCain / 20% Barack Obama / 12% Don't know

SurveyUSA California:

Poll of 904 debate watchers in California.

Who won the debate?

Barack Obama 56% / John McCain 26% / 18% No Clear Winner

Which candidate laid out a better vision for America's future?

Barack Obama 62% / John McCain 31% / Unsure 6%

SurveyUSA Washington:

741 debate watchers. Their Washington State polls gave ties to McCain and Palin last two debates.

Who won the debate?

54% Barack Obama / 29% John McCain / 18% no clear winner.

Which candidate laid out a better vision for America's future?

Barack Obama 60% / John McCain 35% / Unsure 6%

CNN Extended Poll:

Iraq: Obama 51% / McCain 47%
Terrorism: McCain 51% / Obama 46
Economy: Obama 59% / McCain 37%
Financial Crises: Obama 57% / McCain 36%
Who was more likable: Obama 65% / McCain 28%
Who was more intelligent? Obama 57% / McCain 25%
Who spent more time attacking opponent? McCain 63% / Obama 17%

CBS Extended Poll:

Understands your needs and problems?

Before Debate: Obama 60%
After Debate: Obama 80%

Would make right decisions on the economy:

Before Debate: Obama 54%
After Debate: Obama 68%

Before Debate: McCain 41%
After Debate: McCain 49%

CNN Dials:

Pundit Reactions:

John King: "Game Over"

David Sirota:

It's stunning how uncomfortable and uninformed John McCain is when it comes to economic issues. I know it's not his forte, but he's been in the Congress for a quarter century, and was the chairman of the Commerce Committee, so he should have at least a basic command over these issues. He doesn't.

Robert Shrum:

If the question of the first debate was whether Obama would pass the threshold on national security -- he did then and again tonight -- the reality of this debate is that McCain didn't pass the threshold on the economy. He can't get there with blather about earmarks; the voters aren't dumb. And his tax cuts for the wealthy are hardly appealing in this environment.

National Review Online Reader:

Well I have gone outside and pulled up my Mcain/Palin sign. This election is over. I will vote for Mcain but I know that come Nov. 5 Obama will be our president-elect.

Matt Lewis:

Because McCain needed to gain some momentum tonight -- unless I'm missing something -- I don't think he accomplished that goal tonight...

Vaughn Ververs

A draw of that kind is good news for Obama, who has seen the political landscape tilt strongly his way in recent weeks, both nationally and in the crucial battleground states. McCain needs a breakout moment, and he didn’t get one in Nashville Tuesday night.

Chris Cillizza:

By and large, both Obama and McCain stuck to their tried and true attacks on their rival. Obama cast McCain as a clone of the current president whose judgment on domestic and foreign affairs had been wrong time and time again. McCain painted Obama as a liberal who wants to raise taxes and increase spending in the midst of an economic crisis. No new ground was broken. Obama, smartly, stuck to a script to avoid any sort of flub that could change the general direction of the race, which is a trend in his favor.

Ross Douthat:

I'd call tonight's debate a draw, which if the dynamic from the first debate holds probably means it was a big win for Obama. I was gratified by the approach McCain took - by the absence of personal attacks (though, yes, the dislike still came through), by the attempt to actually engage with Obama on issues like health care, and yes, by the promise to buy up home mortgages, which was exactly the kind of blatantly panderish thing McCain needs to do if he wants to actually win this thing. (More on this tomorrow.) But Obama was unruffled and consistent - change vs. more of the same, change vs. more of the same, rinse and repeat - and for whatever it's worth the physical and generational contrast between the two men was very striking in this setting, and especially in the early going McCain seemed to me be showing his age as he delivered his answers. He improved as the night went on, but the vigor gap was palpable.

Joe Conason:

John McCain's latest debate performance points up the cynicism of his recent attacks on Barack Obama's character -- which he plainly did not dare to repeat before the live audience on national television.

American Spectator:

So much for McCain as the master of townhalls. As Quin notes below, McCain got better as the topics moved to things he's actually interested in. But does anyone think he won this debate? I don't.

McCain's Lies:

Obama's campaign has got a list of McCain's lie's out.

1.1 1. MCCAIN PROPOSING NEW HOUSING PLAN. McCain today said he had a new plan to allow the Treasury to purchase and restructure mortgages. The truth is that this is not a new proposal and is already part of the rescue plan that was signed into law. It was Obama, not McCain who called for this move two weeks ago.

MCCAIN TAX PLAN IS BETTER. McCain said, "It is my proposal not Senator Obama's" that will "take care of working families." The reality is that even the Heritage Foundation agrees Obama will provide a middle class tax cut that studies have found is three times larger than under McCain's plan. In contrast, the McCain plan's benefits would overwhelmingly go to the wealthiest Americans and would leave out 101 million middle class households.
MCCAIN'S PLAN FOR HOUSING CRISIS. McCain said, "We have got to give some trust and confidence back to America" to solve the housing crisis. But Politifact agrees that McCain was taken by surprise by the mortgage crisis and was "a latecomer" to the debate. He even said "I don't claim to be smart enough" to solve the housing crisis and newspapers have found that McCain "overstates" his past actions on housing regulation.
TIES TO FANNIE/FREDDIE. McCain talked about "Senator Obama and his cronies and friends in Washington" and blamed them for Fannie and Freddie, while news accounts have pointed out his "deeper" ties to the companies. His campaign manager Rick Davis fought against greater regulation for years, and then his firm was revealed to be taking $15,000 a month until this summer from Freddie Mac, after denying any recent ties.
MCCAIN WILL MAKE HEALTH CARE AFFORDABLE AND AVAILABLE. McCain said "We can do them all at once," talking about affordability and availability of health care, but he failed to mention that experts say his plan may require some to pay more or get less coverage, that millions would lose their employer-based coverage, and that even he has admitted that his plan will raise taxes on some.
SMALL BUSINESS TAXES. McCain said Obama's plan "will increase taxes on 50% of small business revenue," when the Washington Post found similar attacks "untrue," and studies show 97% of small business owners wouldn't see higher taxes under Obama's plan. Factcheck.org said the attack used "a false and preposterously inflated figure."
TAX CUTS FOR THE WEALTHY. McCain said "I am not in favor of tax cuts for the wealthy." While he once said that the Bush tax cuts were "too tilted to the wealthy," now he wants to make them permanent.
2005 ENERGY BILL. McCain attacked Obama for his vote for the 2005 energy bill, saying it had "billions for oil companies." The truth is that FactCheck.org called this "an old canard" and a "false attack." The non-partisan Congressional Research Service said the bill actually raised taxes on the oil and gas industry.
94 VOTES FOR HIGHER TAXES…AGAIN. McCain once again repeated the attack that Obama voted 94 times for higher taxes, calling it "his record." This attack has been debunked by the Associated Press, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, CNN, the New York Times and FactCheck.org, among others.
OBAMA RECORD ON NUCLEAR POWER. McCain said, "Obama is opposed to that," when the reality is that this attack is "false" according to FactCheck.org. Obama supports nuclear as long as it's "clean and safe."
HEALTH COVERAGE FOR PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS. McCain said his health care plan would let people cross state lines to get plans, suggesting it would improve care and not telling Americans that it would weaken patient protections and does nothing to require insurance companies to cover pre-existing conditions. McCain's plan would create a situation the GOP chair of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners said would cause a "race to the bottom."
HIGHER HEALTH CARE COSTS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES. McCain attacked Obama's health care plan, suggesting that Obama will fine small businesses and make health care more expensive for them. ABC pointed out that he was "omitting key details about Obama's plan to mitigate costs" for health care for small businesses. McCain also omitted his record of voting repeatedly against tax credits for small businesses to help with health care costs and that the majority of members of the National Federation of Independent Businesses oppose his plan.
JUDGMENT ON IRAQ. McCain said that he had "the judgment" to make national security decisions, ignoring his record of misguided statements during the course of the Iraq war. In 2005 he said the war would be over within 18 months. In 2003 he said "we will be welcomed as liberators," and that "we will win it easily."
RUSSIA AND GEORGIA. McCain said Obama "was wrong about Russia when they committed aggression against Georgia" when Obama had condemned Russia's actions and called for an immediate ceasefire.
SURGE IN IRAQ. McCain again attacked Obama on the surge, when news accounts show that Obama "said at the time" that the increase "could improve security in certain neighborhoods but that it would not solve the long-term political strife." Meanwhile McCain said only 10,000 troops would do the job.
NEGOTIATIONS. McCain attacked Obama on diplomatic engagement, but the Washington Post has said McCain is "distorting history when he suggests that Barack Obama is bucking American presidential tradition in expressing a willingness to meet with the leaders of countries hostile to the United States" and that McCain is "incorrect."

17. SOMALIA. McCain held up Somalia as an example of failed American foreign policy, saying "we ended up having to withdraw in humiliation." McCain ignored the amendment he introduced in 1993 to cut off funding for troops in Somalia.

And that's all I have for tonight. I think it's pretty clear Obama won by now.

Debate reactions coming in

2008-10-07T20:03:00.001-07:00

Digg it!

I really, really did not like the format for tonight's debate, it cut off any real conversation or discussion of the issues (not that any of the other debates have had much of that.) I don't think Obama did fantastic, he was solid but nothing more. But I thought McCain really did horribly tonight, he came of as condescending and angry. Take a look at these clips.

It seems to me that McCain has a intense dislike of Obama. He once again barely even looked at him, he wouldn't shake his hand after the debate and that really didn't come off well to me and I don't think voters will like it either.

Here's some reactions from tonights debate.

Snap Polls/Focus Groups:

CBS:

Obama 39% / McCain 27% / 35% Draw

CNN:

Obama 54% / McCain 30%

MSNBC:

Obama 60% / McCain 40%

FOX News:

Obama won (can't find numbers yet)

Pundits:

Taegan Goddard:

Tonight's debate wasn't even close. Sen. Barack Obama ran away with it -- particularly when speaking about the economy and health care. Talking about his mother's death from cancer was very powerful. On nearly every issue, Obama was more substantive, showed more compassion and was more presidential.

In contrast, Sen. John McCain was extremely erratic. Sometimes he was too aggressive (referring to Obama as "that one.") Other times, he just couldn't answer the question (on how he would ask Americans to sacrifice.) And his random attempts at jokes (hair transplants?) were just bad.

Andrew Sullivan:

"This was, I think, a mauling: a devastating and possibly electorally fatal debate for McCain... I've watched a lot of debates and participated in many. I love debate and was trained as a boy in the British system to be a debater. I debated dozens of times at Oxofrd. All I can say is that, simply on terms of substance, clarity, empathy, style and authority, this has not just been an Obama victory. It has been a wipe-out. It has been about as big a wipe-out as I can remember in a presidential debate. It reminds me of the 1992 Clinton-Perot-Bush debate. I don't really see how the McCain campaign survives this."

Ezra Klein:

"Tonight was supposed to be John McCain's night, but it was the first clear debate win Obama has scored over the course of this campaign -- including the primary. McCain, as it turned out, was badly disadvantaged by the format. This debate was more physical than previous encounters. And McCain, for reasons of age and injuries and height, has a less commanding physical presence than Obama."

Andy McCarthy:

With due respect, I think tonight was a disaster for our side. I'm dumbfounded that no one else seems to think so. Obama did everything he needed to do, McCain did nothing he needed to do. What am I missing?

Mark Halperin:

"McCain spent much of the evening trying to define Obama on his terms, but never broke all the way through."

Bill Whittle:

The things that will (should have said "would") have hit Obama in the polls were subjects that were not raised tonight and I see no reason to think they will be raised next time. The news won't cover these issues. It has to come out in the debates. And I don't see much chance that we will see that next time.
This was not a great night for our team. It's up to the 527's now I think. I don't know how else to get the negatives about Obama out there.

Marc Ambinder:

"CW says that John McCain had a 90 minute window to turn his campaign around - to put into play the McCain Resurgence Strategy, if you will, and if that's the CW threshold, I don't think McCain met it."

And check out this collection of photos from the debate. Here's a sample one. Go look at them all.

Overall? Obama was the clear winner. He did everything he needed to do and McCain didn't do anything he needed to do.

UPDATE: More debate reactions are coming in

NBC (Shrum) 9:43 PM: I think he won a win tonight, Barack Obama. Because I think the big headline of this debate is that people across the country more and more comfortable with the idea of President Obama. He projects a sense of calmness and strength that kind of grace under pressure that people prize in a president.

MSNBC (Fineman) 11:10 PM: "Another good moment for Obama was when Obama basically took control of the foreign policy debate toward the end there."

FOX News (Luntz)10:43 PM: "We seem to be getting winners out of this. Obama did better overall. "

CNN (Brown) 11:06 PM: "Number one, who did the best job in the debate? Obama 54%, McCain 30%. The debate watchers: opinion of Barack Obama, before the debate, your favorables at 60%, after the debate, they went up for Obama to 64%. Unfavorable for Obama at 38%, after the debate they went down to 34%. For John McCain, the opinion of John McCain, his favorables before the debate, 51% unchanged, after the debate again at 51%. His unfavorables 46%, and again, unchanged 46%."

CNN (Bob Schneider): I'm not sure that McCain's presenting of Iraq as a model for Afghanistan will be resonate with voters. LINK

TIME: I'm very distracted by McCain standing behind Obama and looking really, really mad. LINK

Washington Post Factchecker (Michael Dobbs): In outlining his tax policy, John McCain boasted that he would give all American families a $5,000 tax credit to allow them to go out and buy their own health insurance. This is true but it is only part of the story. The other part, which McCain rarely mentions on the campaign trail, is that the Republican candidate has also proposed taxing employer-provided health benefits, which will wipe out most of extra income from the tax credit. LINK

Washington Post Factchecker (Michael Shear): Sen. McCain claimed that Sen. Obama was the second-highest recipient of money from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac "in history." Having received $105,849, he falls behind Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Sen. Christoper Dodd (D-Conn.) in third place, not second. And it's unclear where McCain bases his claim that Obama is second "in history" since the sites that track these contributions don't use that kind of duration. LINK

Chicago Tribune (Frank James): McCain says we need to do something about home values. He says he will order the Treasury Sec to buy up bad mortgages. "Is it expensive? Yes." He says. Kind of conflicts with his statement a few words before that he would cut spending. LINK

TNR (Michael Crowley): Time after time tonight, McCain rushes and garbles his points so that many voters, I suspect, aren't sure what he's said. LINK

CNN (Hillary Rosen): I am fixated on the dial line at the bottom of the screen on CNN. Women are responding very enthusiastically to Obama. And women have been the larger part of the undecided vote in the battleground states. They like his specificity on tax cuts, the budget, education and energy. And now the environment has just sent both men and women to the top line. McCain only gets to the top line with either men or women when he is positive. Each time he criticizes Obama, the line flattens. LINK

Washington Post (Eugene Robinson): I think most viewers will decide that Obama won the debate, if only because he seemed more presidential and he represents a party other than George W. Bush's. These encounters, I believe, are fundamentally unkind to John McCain. LINK

Talking Points Memo: "Clear, even decisive win for Obama tonight." The debate's relatively low-key tone, combined with a series of exchanges that Obama won by at minimum a marginal amount, translate into a clear, even decisive win for Obama tonight. There's no point in mincing words: Time is running out for McCain. As multiple observers have pointed out, McCain needed to jar the electorate into seeing this race in a new way. It isn't even clear if McCain even tried to do this tonight -- there was no moment where he appeared to make an aggressive bid to take down Obama or grab the initiative. LINK

UPDATE 2: This is getting too crowded so I've not another reactions thread up here.

It's on: Keating Economics

2008-10-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

Obama's campaign has the full documentary up now at KeatingEconomics.com where you can download the whole thing for yourself. And it's creating quite a buzz. Take a look at Google Trends.

Keating Economics

2008-10-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

Obama's campaign goes there

And launches a site as well that says a "full documentary" will be up at 12 ET.

Very interesting. Looks like the Obama campaign is not going to sit idly by while Obama is smeared as a terrorist sympathizer. It will be interesting to see what this "documentary" will be.

Daily Digest: Good for Google Edition

2008-09-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

-Google just came out against the hateful Prop 8 in California that would take away the right to marry from same-sex couples who love each other. Good for Google.

-Michelle Bachman was elected in 2006 from the area above where I live. I have never been more ashamed of a politician from my state. Michelle Bachman is willing to use exploit the economic crises by using racial fears. That's despicable. If there was one person I could defeat in Congress it would probably be Michelle Bachman.

-Reihan thinks a Putin/Uribe election would be far more interesting. I have to say it would certainly shatter a lot of barriers. Mostly beacuse Putin and Uribe would hire the KGB and right-wing militas, respectively, to smash the glass barriers.

-Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader in the Senate is tied with Bruce Lunsford, a corrupt, conservative Democrat. McConell is also corrupt and far more conservative but it's hard to get exited about this race.

-Is it just me, or does anyone else think it's amazing that the debate avoided completely the Israeli/Palestine conflict?

-Steve Clemons and Fareed Zakaria are right, Sarah Palin is in no way qualified to be vice president. The fact that McCain picked her speaks extremely poorly of his judgment, in my opinon.

-Nate's got today's polls.

-Minnesota will have a 90 percent of it's voting age population registered by election day. Does that rock or what? National average is a full 22 points lower.

-Why can't the Twins close the deal? The White Sox's are horrible but we still can't close the deal and get into the playoffs. If we lose tomorow I will be sooooo angry.

Brain Break: The wonders of YouTube

2008-09-27T18:22:00.000-07:00

File under: things that don't make any sense but are still funny.

Wes Clark LIVE at New America NOW

2008-09-17T14:10:00.001-07:00

Wes Clark is speaking live at a New America Foundation event in DC hosted by Steve Clemons. I had the chance to attend a event of Steve's when he was in town for the RNC and it was quite interesting, I suspect Clark's event will also be fascinating. Watch it if you have the time.

TPM nails Palin

2008-09-08T22:40:00.000-07:00

That's what journalism looks like. It's called factchecking people and we need more of it. Good on you Josh Marshall!

Speaking of journalists. Steve Clemons has a good question for a journalist to ask Sarah Palin.

Jill Biden rocks

2008-09-08T22:08:00.000-07:00

I really, really like Jill Biden. Everyone should have a chance to see Jill Biden and Michelle Obama before they cast their votes.

New Obama/Biden Ad nails McCain/Palin

2008-09-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

Very good new ad. Looks like the Obama campaign agrees with Mike Lux

Putting a myth to rest

2008-09-07T19:59:00.000-07:00

One thing I've heard from some Republicans in praising Sarah Palin is that she "took on" the corrupt Alaska Republican Party establishment and specifically that she "took on" indicted Senator Ted Stevens. I've tried to debunk that but I still hear it being repeated. Now the Jed Report has uncovered some video footage that should pretty much put this claim to rest.

Also I found these videos featured prominently on Stevens channel

Let's face it. Ted Stevens and Sarah Palin are political allies. They have had some disagreements but both have helped each other out at key periods of their political careers. Ted Stevens has been indicted on corruption charges. Sarah Palin wants voters to put her a heartbeat away from leading the free world.

It's time to start being honest about that. And it's time to start thinking about if we want someone like that so close to the presidency.

Ackerman in Afghanistan

2008-09-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

This is cool.

Spencer Ackerman who is one of my favorite bloggers is in Afghanistan right now doing what real journalists do, seeing what's really happening.

It will be interesting to hear about his findings.

Mind break: BarackRolling of McCain

2008-09-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

I've watched this close to 10 times and it's still funny.

Enjoy.

Joe Biden at his best

2008-09-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

When Barack Obama picked Joe Biden as his vice presidential running mate I thought it was a solid pick but wasn't hugely enthusiastic about it beacuse there are some policy positions that he holds that I'm not exactly happy about. However as the days go by I am more and more glad that he was picked.

He has shown he is a fantastic campaigner who complements Obama perfectly and I think he will be a fantastic governing partner. I think Obama showed very good judgment by picking Biden and Joe showed why today.

Biden tears apart the Republican ticket for it's total lack of focus and understanding of any of the major challenges we face.

I think Steve Clemons (who was right about Joe Biden) nailed it last night

I just don't believe he understands how important it is to see that this is a major moment of historical discontinuity for the world and for the United States. To preserve America's constructive global role and to offset more calamity at home and abroad -- we need to talk about more than drilling off the coast, and keeping down taxes (while oddly continuing to beef up the US military and its obligations without regard to receipts to pay for this).

That pretty much explains my feelings about the RNC. The Republicans spent four days showing they don't get it. It's not that they are bad people necessarily (although I thought their exploiting of 9/11 was utterly shameful and unacceptable), it's that the ticket of candidates they are putting forth fundamentally does not get how big the challenges that we face are. It's just a election year problem that can be fixed by simple, wrongheaded slogans (Drill here, drill now, pay less. Stronger military, stronger America. Lower taxes, more prosperity.) The problem is that their isn't a simple fix to the mess we are in, and if you don't get that (and I don't like John McCain or Sarah Palin do), then you will not be able to do anything meaningful about our situation.

MN-02: New ad from Team Sarvi "Wrong"

2008-09-04T20:28:00.001-07:00

Crossposted from Minnesota Progress

Iraq War Vet and Second District Democratic Nominee Steve Sarvi is up with the first ad of the MN-02 race. It's a solid ad, I'm not quite as impressed with it as I am with Ashwin Madia's ads but it's a good ad that defines Sarvi in the terms that Sarvi wants before Kline has a chance to define him. He also defines Kline before Kline can which is important since despite being the incumbent, Kline is not well known.

It's essentially the same strategy that Tim Walz used in 2006. If you want to him run this ad you can donate here.

And if your wondering why you should help Sarvi win I wrote about John Kline's out of touch record awhile ago. Learn about the Kline Record and donate to Steve Sarvi.v

MN-03: "Change the Way" Ashwin Madia's new ad

2008-09-04T20:26:00.000-07:00

Crossposted from Minnesota Progress

Team Madia is up with it's second ad. And again, I'm very impressed.

Most Democrats run ads of them talking to people while MIDDLE CLASS TAX CUTS, ENERGY INDEPENDENCE, HEALTH CARE FOR ALL, END WAR IN IRAQ flash on the bottom of the screen. Sure those are all popular poll tested themes but those kind of ads are boring and unmemorable not to mention ineffective.

Madia's ad's are unconventional, interesting and convey his message in a much more memorable way. I'd really like to know who made these ads. For those who missed it, here is his last ad:

If you want to help air these ads, donate here.

Sarah Palin: A Ted Stevens Republican

2008-09-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

I have written extensively about the close relationship between corrupt indicted Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska and John McCain's running mate, current Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin. Stevens and Palin have been friends and allies for over a decade. Stevens has helped Palin get elected as governor and selected as vice president and Palin has given him cover to run for re-election.

Today brings new developments about the Palin/Stevens Connection. The Washington Post did some digging and found out that Palin served as a director for a 527 group organized by Stevens right as Palin was building her statewide profile for a statewide run.

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin began building clout in her state's political circles in part by serving as a director of an independent political group organized by the now embattled Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens.

Palin's name is listed on 2003 incorporation papers of the "Ted Stevens Excellence in Public Service, Inc.," a 527 group that could raise unlimited funds from corporate donors. The group was designed to serve as a political boot camp for Republican women in the state. She served as one of three directors until June 2005, when her name was replaced on state filings.

Palin's relationship with Alaska's senior senator may be one of the more complicated aspects of her new position as Sen. John McCain's running mate; Stevens was indicted in July 2008 on seven counts of corruption.

You can say that again. But I'd call it a little bit more then "complicated." I'd say that despite her protestations she is nothing more then a Ted Stevens Republican. Corrupt, abuser of power, out of touch. That's Ted Stevens and that's also Sarah Palin.

Sarah Palin fails in Republican pollsters focus group

2008-09-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

(h/t Oliver Willis)

Top Republican pollster Frank Luntz conducted a focus group of swing voters here in Minnesota for AARP and when he tested their reactions to Republican Vice Presidential pick Sarah Palin the result was not something I suspect the McCain campaign will be happy about.

However it does confirm Rasmussen's polling showing Palin to be playing very badly among undecided voters. From Andrew Sullivan:

But among the critical undecideds, the Palin pick made only 6 percent more likely to vote for McCain; and it made 31 percent less likely to vote for him. 49 percent said it would have no impact, and 15 percent remained unsure. More to the point: among undecideds, 59 percent said Palin was unready to be president. Only 6 percent said she was. If the first criterion for any job is whether you're ready for it, this is a pretty major indictment of the first act of McCain's presidential leadership.

The fact of the matter is that Sarah Palin is not playing well among undecided voters. She will help McCain bring out evangelicals but will that make up for her horrible performance among swing voters? I don't think so but we won't know until November 5th.

The Palin/Stevens Connection: Closer then you think

2008-08-29T22:19:00.000-07:00

Digg it!

Ever since this morning when John McCain announced the hated, unqualified, corrupt, anti-semitic supporting, polar bear hating, anti-science, anti-fact Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin more and more about her has been coming out.

Once of the central arguments for Palin was that she is seen as a "reformer" compared to the infamously corrupt Alaska Republican Party. The problem is she's a close ally of Sen. Ted Stevens who has been indicted on federal corruption charges and could be going to jail soon.

First video of Stevens endorsing Palin in a ad was uncovered. (It has since been scrubbed from her site)

As a long time freind and supporter Stevens was naturally very happy that his freind Palin was picked as VP.

It's a great day for the nation and Alaskans. Governor Palin has proven herself as a bright, energetic leader for our State and will bring the same energy to the Vice Presidency. She will serve our country with distinction - the first Alaskan and first woman on the Republican ticket. I share in the pride of all Alaskans.

After all, Stevens and Palin go way back.

I have known and worked with Sarah for over a decade from her service as Mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, in her role as president of the Alaska Conference of Mayors, and most recently as our Governor. She is attentive to her job and family, brings people together, and is able to make tough decisions.
It may be a strong endorsement, but it's about as useful as "Brownie" saying you are qualified to handle emergency. But I guess friends stick together, when Stevens was indicted Palin said it "would be premature" to call for his resignation.

But the Stevens/Palin connection goes farther then that. Palin has even supported the infamous Bridge to Nowhere that Ted Steven's championed.

So it's not surprising that Palin's campaign manager and chief of staff recently signed on to run his campaign.

But that's not it, blogger Dean Barker dug up this

"It is so encouraging to hear again that Senator Stevens and I are singing from the same sheet of music," said Governor Palin.

With a little digging I found more.

The Senator and I are working closely together

Keep in mind this is a indicted, corrupt and unpopular senator we are talking about. But there is more.

Over the course of the last few months, the Governor has unveiled a multi-phase statewide energy plan that puts Alaskans first and mirrors the Senator’s efforts on the Senatorial level.

So essentially Palin's energy policy is the same as a Senator who has been indicted for his close and corrupt relationship with oil company executives.

Let's face the facts, John McCain picked a running mate with close ties to a indicted, disgraced Senator. That is NOT putting "Country First", that's a reckless political act thats going to backfire big time.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg. More to come.

Final VP Prediction: It's Obama/Biden

2008-08-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

Unlike elections there is no real way of knowing or predicting the winner of the Veepstakes. Still, every four years it's always one of the biggest stories with news organizations pouring huge resources into trying to get the scoop.

I have no such resources and am not a giant news organization, but with Barack Obama's announcement of his vice presidential choice imminent and reports from Obama himself that he has decided on his VP I've listened to the few words Obama has said about his choice, watching the body language and behavior of the VP "shortlist", doing some educated guess work and some plain old guessing I've concluded that Senator Joseph Biden of Delaware has been selected as Barack Obama's vice presidential running mate.

There is your scoop.

Madia: "It's time for a little more bravery in Washington"

2008-08-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

Today is Ashwin Madia Blog Day and so as a supporter from pretty much the day the primary field settled. I thought I'd post a little bit about why I've been part of Madiamania for so long. It shouldn't be two hard beacuse two blogs today, Ashin's in The Hill and Howie Klein's on DownWithTyranny, have spelled out my main reason pretty well. I've supported Ashwin Madia since the start beacuse he has courage.

Today in a blog for The Hill Ashwin summed it up in one line

It’s time for a little more bravery in Washington.

Ashwin Madia has the courage to take on the war's biggest cheerleader, Joe Lieberman

Today, the Republican Party announced that the loudest defender of status quo policies on Iraq, Senator Joe Lieberman, will be a prominent speaker at the Republican National Convention in my home state of Minnesota. Senator Lieberman and I do have one thing in common. We’ve both changed political parties. I left the Republican Party in 2002 after it replaced “balance our budget” with “borrow and spend” and after we started a war without a plan for success; a war we did not need.

With all respect to Senator Lieberman, talking tough about Iraq is not brave. Bravery is not demonstrated through words but instead through action.

Ashwin Madia has the courage to oppose the recent FISA bill.

I am troubled by the House passage of HR 6304, the FISA Amendments Act of 2008. There is much we can do to prevent terrorism, but such measures do not require the sacrifice of fundamental constitutional freedoms which our country was founded upon. This legislation demonstrates the need for leaders in Congress who have experience in the military and in Iraq, and who value the rule of law as we fight the War on Terror.

Ashwin Madia has the courage to stand for full equality for all Americans.

Ever since the start of my campaign, I have been reaching out to members of the LGBT community in Minnesota. That’s because I strongly believe in full equal rights for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans.

As a Marine Corps lawyer who served in Iraq, I was one of first attorneys to successfully defend a gay Marine from discrimination in the military. It wasn’t easy to stand in front of a jury made up of other U.S. Marines and argue against the military's bigoted and shameful "don't ask, don't tell" policy, but I was more than willing to do so. I would I would be proud to serve alongside anyone brave enough to put on the uniform.

As someone with a brother who is gay, I would advocate passionately for passage of a federal hate crimes law that recognizes the disproportionate number of threats on a daily basis faced by members of the LGBT community. Existing law already extends legal protections for a number of vulnerable minority communities. Every day that we do not have this protection, LGBT individuals remain at risk.

I support same-sex marriage and full equality under the law. Civil unions fall short and seem to be a way for politicians to avoid recognizing all people as equal.

Lastly, it is unacceptable that our nation continues to allow a form of discrimination to exist in the workplace based on a characteristic that is just as inherent as sex, race, or disability. I support efforts to prohibit job discrimination.

I’m running for an open seat which had been held by a moderate Republican. But my opponent, State Representative Erik Paulsen, has been a vehement opponent of equal rights for LGBT Minnesotans for more than a decade. He led the fight in 2004, and again in 2006, to write discrimination into the Minnesota state constitution. He even voted to prevent equal benefits from being provided to domestic partners of state employees even though many of Minnesota’s largest employers already have policies that promote equality.

I have been endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign and by Minnesota’s Stonewall DFL (Democrats). I hope you will consider supporting my campaign in the coming days and weeks. We need pragmatic problem solving not people who put their political ideology ahead of principles. It’s time for a few more patriots in Congress and a few less politicians.

::

Those are just three examples to give you a idea of what Ashwin is about. Ashwin is a fighter, if we send him to Washington he will not disappoint.

Here's a great video of Ashwin

We won't get a great progressive like that in Washington by wishing for it. We've got to work for it.

Want courage in Washington? Donate.

Republican Congressmen Attacks 14 year old blogger

2008-08-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

That's right. Yesterday at a debate between Rep. Virgil Goode of Virgina's 5th district and his Democratic challenger Tom Perriello Goode said this

"And they want me out of Congress, the liberal Democrats want me out. And they want me out because I'm a conservative voice, if we can silence that person that's exactly what we want, we want more mushers up here in Congress that won't speak out and stand out. They want a Obamajority in this country, Tom is on the Obamajority list for the US House of Representatives, they want to get him in there because they know he is going to be voting with them. They want to control the White House, 60 votes in the US Senate and a strong majority in the US House of Representatives."

Goode is famous for using bogeymen to scare people, he attacked Rep. Keith Ellison for being a Muslim and repeated tall tales about China that even Dick Cheney said where false.

Now he's found a new bogeymen. He's attacking the Obamajority, an ActBlue page started by a 14 year old blogger--me.

That's right, back in March I started an ActBlue page, "The New Obamajority". After asking for suggestions I added Tom Perriello to the page. Apparently the 587 dollars we raised from 12 donors over the internet terrified Goode so much that he decided to attack a internet fundraising page in his closing remarks at a key debate in his race.

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That internet fundraising page is even more terrifying to Goode because it was started by me, a 14 year old blogger with close to no political experience before two years ago. I'm trembling in my boots!

Personally I don't think 587 bucks is anything to be scared about. If I were Goode I would be more worried about the fact that he's getting outraised by Perriello. But I say we give him something to really be scared about.

I'm setting a goal of getting to 50 donors for Perriello on the Obamajority page to send Goode packing.

Donate to Tom Perriello

Goode doesn't seem to like "mushers" which is odd because it is the name of people who race dogs similar to dogsled racing, I guess Goode has a problem with mushing, maybe if we retire him he'll have enough free time to try out mushing and maybe he'll learn to love it.

Goode for Musher! Donate now.

It's also a good excuse to donate to a terrific progressive candidate who will help build a Obamajority and will fight for our values. He helped develop the Responsible Plan to End the War in Iraq, helped found the people powered group Avaaz.org and is a strong believer in conviction politics.

Donate for People-Powered Conviction Politics

Also, Goode came close to breaking a secret I've been keeping. Tom will not be voting with "them" as Goode said, he will be personally calling me up before each vote and asking me how to vote. In fact, he got me a slick new phone for that purpose.

Let me assure you of this, Tom will march lock step with the powerful Teenage Blogger Caucus!

Donate to Tom

We've got a goal, we've got a teenage blogger attacking congressmen, we've got a terrific candidate to replace him.

Now time for action! It's time to make a difference and let's do it. Let's use the super-powerful Obamajority internet fundraising page to elect Tom Perriello and say "Goodbye" to Virgil Goode. We can use the series of tubes to make a difference!

Send a donation through the series of tubes!

Donate

More Republicans for Obama

2008-08-12T18:20:00.000-07:00

Awhile back I wrote about Lou Thieblemont, mayor of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania and lifelong Republican switching parties so he could vote for Barack Obama in the Pennsylvania and noted other Republicans for Obama also called Obamacans.

Well there is lots more news on that front today. Former GOP Representative Jim Leach endorsed Obama today and kicked off the campaigns official Republicans for Obama effort. Keep reading for more.

"It's been a very difficult thing for me because I've never endorsed a Democrat before...but sometimes in life you come to a juncture where it's very clear the national interest trumps party discipline - Jim Leach"

Today on a conference call Leach endorsed Obama and kicked off Republicans for Obama. RfO will launch a website later this week and has a leadership committee of about 20 current and former prominent Republicans. Rita Hauser, International Peace Institute Chair and 2000 New York Finance Chair for Bush will lead the group with former Republican Senator Lincoln Chaffee.

Also today Fairbanks, Alaska's Republican Mayor Jim Whitaker endorsed Obama.

Other Republicans who have endorsed Obama include:

-Tom Bernstein who went to Yale University with Bush and coowned the Texas Rangers baseball team with him
-Oregon's First District GOP Congressional Nominee Joel Haugen
-Reagan policy advisor Bruce Bartlett
-Delbert Spurlock, who was Assistant Secretary of the Army under Reagan
-ex Senator (and Governor) Lowell Weicker of Connecticut
-Tony Campell, a former GOP congressional candidate from Maryland
-Douglas Kmiec, a Republican who served in the Justice Department under President Ronald Reagan
-Dorothy Danforth Burlin, a lawyer who is the daughter of former U.S. Senator John Danforth
-Susan Eisenhower, president of the Eisenhower Group

Let's take a look at some of these people and why they are for Barack in their own words.

Susan Eisenhower:

Here is why she is a Obamacan from a beautiful op-ed of hers in the Washington Post endorsing Obama.

We have been living in a zero-sum political environment where all heads have been lowered to avert being lopped off by angry, noisy extremists. I am convinced that Barack Obama is the one presidential candidate today who can encourage ordinary Americans to stand straight again; he is a man who can salve our national wounds and both inspire and pursue genuine bipartisan cooperation. Just as important, Obama can assure the world and Americans that this great nation's impulses are still free, open, fair and broad-minded.

.......

It is in this great tradition of crossover voters that I support Barack Obama's candidacy for president. If the Democratic Party chooses Obama as its candidate, this lifelong Republican will work to get him elected and encourage him to seek strategic solutions to meet America's greatest challenges. To be successful, our president will need bipartisan help.

Given Obama's support among young people, I believe that he will be most invested in defending the interests of these rising generations and, therefore, the long-term interests of this nation as a whole. Without his leadership, our children and grandchildren are at risk of growing older in a marginalized country that is left to its anger and divisions. Such an outcome would be an unacceptable legacy for any great nation.

And here she is on MSNBC explaining why she's for Obama

Lou Thieblemont:

Here is why the Republican mayor of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania is voting Obama.

"I'm sick and tired of the politics of fear in this country. He's the only one who doesn't do that, He's the only candidate who's said he'd talk to our enemies and try to get some common ground."

Lincoln Chaffee

Here is what the only Republican senator who opposed the war said when he endorsed Obama

"I believe Senator Obama is the best candidate to restore American credibility, to restore our confidence to be moral and to bring people together to solve the complex issues such as the economy, the environment and global stability,"

Douglas Kmiec:

Douglas Kmiec served in Reagan's DoJ but he's supporting Obama too and penned a Slate article about it.

Today I endorse Barack Obama for president of the United States. I believe him to be a person of integrity, intelligence, and genuine good will. I take him at his word that he wants to move the nation beyond its religious and racial divides and that he wants to return the United States to that company of nations committed to human rights.

..........

All around the country Republicans are flocking to Obama beacuse they are fed up with the modern Republican Party and are ready for a change. But we can't take anything for granted. We've got less then three months until the election. There is no time to sit on the sidelines.

There's plenty of things to do and the stakes are high. So whatever you do, do something!

YES. WE. CAN.

100 days to change the world

2008-07-27T18:19:00.000-07:00

100 days from now depending on where you live you'll probably either be working franticly to get people to the polls or watching results trickle in.

Election Day 2008 is 100 days from today.

End the War Day 2008 is 100 days from today.

Universal Health Care Day 2008 is 100 days from today.

Solve the Climate Crisis Day 2008 is 100 days from today.

We've got 100 days left to make a impact on what might be the most important election yet.

The stakes are too high to stay on the sidelines.

So what can you do to make a difference in this critical election and elect Barack Obama? Lots! Here's a few.

Donate:

One of the quickest ways to help is by donating via the netroots fundraising drive, the Obamathon!

Obama needs the money to keep his machinery of hope running. For the first time in history we have a presidential candidate running a truly grassroots campaign based on the 50 state strategy. And that's not cheap. Every penny makes a difference. This election will be close. Kerry spent $5.52 for every vote he received. Donate $5.52 and put one more vote in the Obama total. If you want to make a difference, donate.

Vote for Change:

For Obama to win we need to register millions of new voters, change the electorate, and get them to the polls. That's why the Obama campaign launched Vote for Change, a national voter registration and mobilization drive. Vote for Change might just be the most important initiative the campaign has launched. It helps democracy, it helps Obama, it helps downballot progressives and it keeps out elected officials accountable. The Obama campaign and kath25 have put together great guides on how to register voters and how to run a Vote for Change event.

In 2008 it's time to explode the vote.

All Politics is Local:

As Tip O'Neil famously said, all politics is local. It's very important to get involved locally and get networked to your community. There are two great ways of doing this.

First is finding your local office. To find your local office go to barackobama.com, move your cursor over the states button and select your state. Since I live in Minnesota I clicked on Minnesota then on the right hand side there should be a "Find your local office" link. In Minnesota these are the offices

Minnesota Headquarters
777 Raymond Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55114

Duluth
302 Superior Street
Duluth, MN 55802

Mankato
220 E. Main Street, Suite 1
Mankato, MN 56001

Minneapolis
514 Hennepin Avenue E
Minneapolis, MN 55403

Moorhead
817 Center Avenue
Moorhead, MN 56560

Northfield
102 3rd Street E.
Northfield, MN 55057

Saint Cloud
904 W. Saint Germain Street
St. Cloud, MN 56301

Wayzata
15700 Wayzata Boulevard
Wayzata, MN 55391

Find your office and call them or go visit them, there will be lots of friendly people who will help you find something to do.

Second you can get networked locally by joining My.BarackObama.com, clicking on the "Groups" button that's found on the right and typing in your zip code to find groups in your state. You'll be surprised at how many active and committed people there are in your area!

Get local!

Phonebank:

Phonebanking is another easy way to help elect Barack Obama. You can do it anywhere and make a real impact in key states. Get calling! Not comfortable with phonebanking yet? The Obama campaign and Elise have fantastic guides to get you started.

Ba(Rock) The Phones!

Netroots Networking:
The most important thing is getting networked locally and taking action locally but we in the netroots also need to get networked so we can be effective. There is a very simple way to do that, join the Netroots for Obama google group. It will only take a minute and then you will be connected with hundreds of other people from around the country. It's quick, easy and important.

Join Netroots for Obama.

..........

There you go. Five things you can do to make a difference. We've only got 100 days left and there is no time to waste.

100 days for a sane foreign policy.

100 days for a better economy of shared prosperity.

100 days for a real commitment to education.

100 days for equal rights for all Americans.

100 days for a clean environment and clean energy.

100 days for a ethical government.

100 days for smart fiscal policy.

100 days for a real healthcare reform.

100 days for a humane immigration reform.

100 days for a real security.

100 days to end the war.

100 days to end poverty.

100 days for our veterans.

100 days left to change the world.

The future will not belong to those who stand on the sidelines - Paul Wellstone

GET ACTIVE!

McCain attacks: Time to fight back!

2008-07-23T18:11:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days the McCain camp has started to get desperate with all the good news for Obama. So what does a campaign run by the architect of negative campaigning do?

Do some good 'ole negative campaigning of course. Here's a recap.

Attack Ads:

First he attacks Obama on foreign policy releasing this ad

FactCheck.org quickly debunks it.

So he tries again. This time on gas prices

Whoops, FactCheck.org calls it a "A Full Tank of Nonsense"

McCain subsequently gets mocked for the ad

RNC/McCain Attacks Obama's Patriotism:
Today the RNC released this smear ad

Obama's campaign quickly shot back against this misleading attack.

"There are honest differences between Senator Obama’s position on Iraq and Senator McCain’s, but there’s no question that both support our troops. Under the RNC’s definition, John McCain would have also chosen politics over our military when he urged George Bush to veto funding for the troops, and we know that’s not the case.

This is the sort of distasteful and misleading attack from the Rove playbook that the American people are tired of, that does nothing to give our troops the equipment they need, and distracts from the honest debate we should be having about how we can keep the country secure."

Calling names:

When your false attacks are not working, what do you do? Try to win a campaign on the issues? Nope.

Imply that your opponent is a socialist.

Politicizing the Holocaust:
Today Barack Obama stopped by the Israeli Holocaust Memorial Yad Vashem to pay his respects.

What does the McCain camp do? Try to score cheap political points. Rep. Robert Wexler quickly responded.

"It's shameful and unconscionable that the McCain campaign is using Senator Obama's somber visit to Israel's Holocaust Museum Yad Vashem as a backdrop to score cheap political points instead of focusing on the security needs of the nation."

Obama "Choosing to lose Iraq War"
First on Sunday top McCain surrogate Joe Lieberman tried out this attack. Then today in Rochester, New Hampshire McCain said this:

This is a clear choice that the American people have. I had the courage and the judgment to say I would rather lose a political campaign than lose a war. It seems to me that Obama would rather lose a war in order to win a political campaign.

TIME's Joe Klein had this to say

This is the ninth presidential campaign I've covered. I can't remember a more scurrilous statement by a major party candidate. It smacks of desperation. It renews questions about whether McCain has the right temperament for the presidency. How sad.

...

There is a reason why politicians who want to be President don't say these sort of things: It isn't presidential.

Klein also took his case to CNN

I think this cartoon pretty much sums it up

McCain's campaign has discovered that the American people have a "bias towards Obama" so they are lashing out with misleading negative attacks straight out of the Rove playbook. And it's only July!

So what can we do to help fight back?

We can fight back with the Obamathon!

The Obamathon is currently at $61,511. Can we get to $70,000 and give the campaign the resources t hey need to fight back against these Rovian attacks? I think we can. One thing is for sure. We can't sit idly by while McCain lashes out with this outrageous attacks. It's time to do something.

Donate, sign up for a event, volunteer, register voters, sign up to counter smears.

Whatever you do. Make sure you

GET ACTIVE!

YES. WE. CAN.

Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek. - Barack Obama

Barack Obama: Environmental Champion

2008-07-21T15:29:00.001-07:00

From July 3rd, 2008

Environmentalism is not an upper-income issue, it's not a white issue, it's not a black issue, it's not a South or a North or an East or a West issue. It's an issue that all of us have a stake in - Barack Obama

Contrary to reports of my untimely demise I am still here I just have been having problems coming up with stuff to write about. I've written a lot of diaries on Obama's platform but there is one issue that I have not written about much. And it's a very, very important issue. A little something called our environment. Barack Obama has been a champion of the environment for a long time. In this diary I will take a look at his background on this issue and plans for moving our country and environment forward.

Obama's green past:

Early life and State Senate
Barack Obama isn't new to working on the environment. During his undergrad days at Colombia Obama did a three-month stint with a Ralph Nader offshoot group trying to get minority students at City College in Harlem to recycle. As a community organizer on the South Side of Chicago Obama fought for lead abatement in the Altgeld Gardens project. Obama's fought for the environment long before he got into politics.

When he did enter politics as a state senator Obama dove right into the tough environmental issues of the day. Here is a quote that Jack Darin, leader of the Sierra Club in Illinois gave to Grist Magazine

He's an incredibly quick study. He's not a scientist, but remarkably adept at analyzing the details of complex environmental issues, asking the right questions, and ultimately making the right policy decision for public interest.

That showed in his voting record. Illinois Environmental Council gave Obama a 100 Percent Environmental Voting Record Award in 2003, he was one of only six state senators to receive that award. When he ran for Senate the Sierra Club and League of Conservation Voters endorsed him over half a dozen other candidates who all seemed more likely to win the Democratic primary. In 2004 the LCV named him a 2004 Environmental Champion, one of 18 sitting and prospective members of Congress to receive the award. That's nothing to sneeze at.

U.S. Senate
Once Obama got to the US Senate he didn't waste any time getting to work fighting for the environment. He fought against lead paint, he introduced the Fuel Economy Reform Act which lead to the increase in CAFE standards that was passed into law last summer, he introduced the Oil SENSE Act to strip subsides from the oil companies which was later passed by the House and worked with clean energy hero Rep. Jay Inslee to introduce the inovative Health Care for Hybrids Act just to name a few things.

In the 109th Congress Obama earned a 96% score from the League of Conservation Voters

Obama's plan for a green future:

Obama laid out his platform on the environment in a speechlast October. Here are a few key points.

-100% Auction Cap and Trade Plan to Reduce Emissions 80 Percent by 2050:

Obama's plan would implement a cap and trade program that would reduce emissions to where the science says they need to be, 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. He would do this by auctioning off all of the credits from the cap and trade program instead of giving them right back to the Big Oil and Coal companies which is the problem with other cap and trade programs. This will make polluters pay. The revenue (30-50 billion a year) will go towards helping consumers with the economic transition, helping the development and deployment of clean energy and investing in energy efficiency.

Businesses don't own the sky, the public does, and if we want them to stop polluting it, we have to put a price on all pollution. It's time to make the cleaner way of doing business the more profitable way of doing business. - Barack Obama

-25 by 25 Renewable Portfolio Standard:

Obama would implement a requirement that 25 percent of the electricity in the United States would come from renewable sources such as wind, solar and geothermal by the year 2025. This would spur huge investment in green energy sources and create tons of new jobs as well as reduce emissions.

-Energy Efficiency

Improving energy efficiency is the fastest and cheapest way to reduce emissions. Obama would set a national goal of reducing the energy intensity of our economy 50% by 2030. That's very ambitious but it is needed. To do this he'd phase out the inefficient incandescent light bulb technology, invest in a digital smart grid, require all buildings be carbon neutral by 2030 and make the largest consumer of energy in America (the federal government) become a leader in energy efficiency among other things.

-Becoming Energy Independent

Obama's plan would reduce oil consumption by at least 35%, or 10 million barrels per day, by 2030. That would more than offset the equivalent of oil we are expected to import from OPEC nations in 2030 and would significantly reduce emissions. To do that he would raise fuel-economy standards for automobiles to 40 miles per gallon and light trucks to 32 mpg by 2020, increase funding for mass transit and bikes and help bring advanced vehicles such as plug-in hybrids and electric cars to the market.

-Making the U.S. a Global Leader on Climate Change
And finally and possibly most importantly Barack Obama would reengage the USA with the rest of the word on climate change and work to negotiate a successor to the Kyoto Treaty that tackles the challenge of the climate crises head on and brings the whole world together as part of the solution.

..........

Barack Obama understands the pressing challenges to our environment and he has strong plans to deal with them. It's personal to Obama, his daughter Malia has chronic asthma. Obama will be a leader on this pressing issue. Just take a look at what Mark Longabaugh, senior vice president for political affairs at LCV had to say about Obama to Grist.

Obama is by far one of the most compelling and knowledgeable politicians on the environment I've ever sat in a room with, I've been playing national politics for more than 20 years and I quite literally can't remember one person I've met -- even on a national level -- who was more in command of facts, more eloquent, and more passionate on these issues than Sen. Obama.

I don't know about you but that's the kind of person I want in the White House.

Let's make it a reality.

Get involved.

Donate

Respect. Empower. Include.

Yes. We. Can.

Last night at the Xcel Energy Center, I saw history

2008-07-21T15:24:00.000-07:00

From June 4th, 2008

Because of you, tonight I can stand here and say that I will be the Democratic nominee for the president of the United States of America.

It took 16 months to get there. But last night I was there in St. Paul, Minnesota. I was there when Barack Obama clinched the Democratic nomination for President of the United States of America.

After 16 a long, 16 month journey we have finally made it across the first finish line. To quote Le blogueur Oakland Kid

This moment isn't about Democrats or Independents or Republicans, this is a moment of celebration for all of us, as Americans...

Only in America was this moment possible. Only in America could hundreds of thousands heed the call for Change and find their hard work and their relentless organizing answered by one candidate who rose up above a field of exceptional leaders to secure this victory.
Change is at hand.

It's been a long journey to get here. Last night was the third Obama rally I have attended. The first one had about 1/10th the crowd but it was equally filled with hope. Back on June 29th, 2007.

That was almost a year ago. But there was that same sense of hope last night at the Xcel Energy Center when 17,000 people packed inside and 15,000 watched from the streets as Barack Obama went from the skinny guy with the funny name to the Democratic Nominee for President of the United States.

.....

It's hard to express how I feel about this. I have been a supporter of Barack Obama for President for almost 20 months. That's a long time. What started as a few dedicated people with common hopes has turned into a full fledged, winning, campaign.

Yes. We. Did.

.....

We still have a lot more ahead of us though. Exactly 5 months from now millions of people around this great country will head to the polls and vote. And that's what matters. Winning that is how Obama will become the 44th President of the United States of America. It wouldn't hurt to chip in and help get us there.

.....

And then we will have more work to do. Electing a president doesn't make change if that president can't get there agenda through Congress. To do that we will need to never stop working for change.

Martin Luther King Jr once said that the arc of the moral universe is long but it bends towards justice.

Last night in St. Paul it was bending pretty heavily towards justice. As kid oakland said

Somewhere in heaven, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Thomas Jefferson and Walt Whitman are smiling tonight. Somewhere in heaven, Caeser Chavez and Harriet Tubman and Robert Kennedy are celebrating this victory. Somewhere up there, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln and Fannie Lou Hamer understand.

A Change is upon us.

Folks, last night we made history.

Give yourself a big pat on the back and let's roll up our sleeves and get back to work.

Yes. We. Can.

obama flashback: meet Marjorie Marsh

2008-07-21T15:23:00.000-07:00

From May 30th, 2008

No long diary from me tonight. Just a short flashback from the past. Back on December 26th, 2007. Before Iowa. Close your eyes and try to remember back then for a moment.

It's been over a year since I made my first blog and so I've been reading through some of my older blogs and found this video about Marjorie Marsh, a 94 year old precinct captain for Obama in Iowa and I'd thought I'd s hare.

Back before Iowa everything was up in the air. How did we win? We won beacuse thousands of people like Marjorie stayed focused and kept their eye on the ball.

That's how we got here. By staying focused. That's how we will win in November. By staying focused.

I know it's easy to fret about the ups and downs of the campaign "What if it goes to the convention?!?!?!, LATEST POLL SAYS WE ARE DOOMED!!!!! THEY CANT CHANGE THE RULES!!!!!"

It's easy to get caught up in stuff like that. But in the end it doesn't matter and worrying about that kind of stuff won't help. Stay focused and we can win this thing.

That is the incredible story of this campaign. Thousands of people stood up and said yes we can.

I'm with that guy. So is she

So are so many millions of people.

But I also trust us with our future. Together we have come so far and we will go even farther.

Stay focused and we can do anything. We've come a long way. We've got a long road ahead of us. That's my message for tonight.

Yes. We. Can.

Obama is back!

2008-07-21T15:21:00.000-07:00

From May 28th, 2008

Amitai Etzioni has a interesting post over at TPMCafe today. In it he argues that for a while Obama had only been focused on unity but that in his recent speech to the graduating class of Wesleyan University he got back to the second main theme of his campaign. Service.

Or more specifically the the call for service for the common good. The article is worth a read. But more importantly so is Obama's speech. It wasn't widely covered but in my opinion it is one of his best.

One part of it stands out to me

I still remember one of the very first meetings we put together to discuss gang violence with a group of community leaders. We waited and waited for people to show up, and finally, a group of older people walked into the hall. And they sat down. And a little old lady raised her hand and asked, "Is this where the bingo game is?"

It wasn't easy, but eventually, we made progress. Day by day, block by block, we brought the community together, and registered new voters, and set up after school programs, and fought for new jobs, and helped people live lives with some measure of dignity.

But I also began to realize that I wasn't just helping other people. Through service, I found a community that embraced me; citizenship that was meaningful; the direction I'd been seeking. Through service, I discovered how my own improbable story fit into the larger story of America.

But I think you should read or watch the full speech. It's well worth twenty minutes of your time. Here is the full text of the speech.

Thank you, President Roth, for that generous introduction, and congratulations on your first year at the helm of Wesleyan. Congratulations also to the class of 2008, and thank you for allowing me to be a part of your graduation.

I have the distinct honor today of pinch-hitting for one of my personal heroes and a hero to this country, Senator Edward Kennedy. Teddy wanted to be here very much, but as you know, he's had a very long week and is taking some much-needed rest. He called me up a few days ago and I said that I'd be happy to be his stand-in, even if there was no way I could fill his shoes.

I did, however, get the chance to glance at the speech he planned on delivering today, and I'd like to start by passing along a message from him: "To all those praying for my return to good health, I offer my heartfelt thanks. And to any who'd rather have a different result, I say, don't get your hopes up just yet!"

So we know that Ted Kennedy's legendary sense of humor is as strong as ever, and I have no doubt that his equally legendary fighting spirit will carry him through this latest challenge. He is our friend, he is our champion, and we hope and pray for his return to good health.

The topic of his speech today was common for a commencement, but one that nobody could discuss with more authority or inspiration than Ted Kennedy. And that is the topic of service to one's country – a cause that is synonymous with his family's name and their legacy.

I was born the year that his brother John called a generation of Americans to ask their country what they could do. And I came of age at a time when they did it. They were the Peace Corps volunteers who won a generation of goodwill toward America at a time when America's ideals were challenged. They were the teenagers and college students, not much older than you, who watched the Civil Rights Movement unfold on their television sets; who saw the dogs and the fire hoses and the footage of marchers beaten within an inch or their lives; who knew it was probably smarter and safer to stay at home, but still decided to take those Freedom Rides down south – who still decided to march. And because they did, they changed the world.

I bring this up because today, you are about to enter a world that makes it easy to get caught up in the notion that there are actually two different stories at work in our lives.

The first is the story of our everyday cares and concerns – the responsibilities we have to our jobs and our families – the bustle and busyness of what happens in our own life. And the second is the story of what happens in the life of our country – of what happens in the wider world. It's the story you see when you catch a glimpse of the day's headlines or turn on the news at night – a story of big challenges like war and recession; hunger and climate change; injustice and inequality. It's a story that can sometimes seem distant and separate from our own – a destiny to be shaped by forces beyond our control.

And yet, the history of this nation tells us this isn't so. It tells us that we are a people whose destiny has never been written for us, but by us – by generations of men and women, young and old, who have always believed that their story and the American story are not separate, but shared. And for more than two centuries, they have served this country in ways that have forever enriched both.

I say this to you as someone who couldn't be standing here today if not for the service of others, and wouldn't be standing here today if not for the purpose that service gave my own life.

You see, I spent much of my childhood adrift. My father left my mother and I when I was two. When my mother remarried, I lived in Indonesia for a time, but was mostly raised in Hawaii by her and my grandparents from Kansas. My teenage years were filled with more than the usual dose of adolescent rebellion, and I'll admit that I didn't always take myself or my studies very seriously. I realize that none of you can probably relate to this, but there were many times when I wasn't sure where I was going, or what I would do.

But during my first two years of college, perhaps because the values my mother had taught me –hard work, honesty, empathy – had resurfaced after a long hibernation; or perhaps because of the example of wonderful teachers and lasting friends, I began to notice a world beyond myself. I became active in the movement to oppose the apartheid regime of South Africa. I began following the debates in this country about poverty and health care. So that by the time I graduated from college, I was possessed with a crazy idea – that I would work at a grassroots level to bring about change.

I wrote letters to every organization in the country I could think of. And one day, a small group of churches on the South Side of Chicago offered me a job to come work as a community organizer in neighborhoods that had been devastated by steel plant closings. My mother and grandparents wanted me to go to law school. My friends were applying to jobs on Wall Street. Meanwhile, this organization offered me $12,000 a year plus $2,000 for an old, beat-up car.

And I said yes.

Now, I didn't know a soul in Chicago, and I wasn't sure what this community organizing business was all about. I had always been inspired by stories of the Civil Rights Movement and JFK's call to service, but when I got to the South Side, there were no marches, and no soaring speeches. In the shadow of an empty steel plant, there were just a lot of folks who were struggling. And we didn't get very far at first.

I still remember one of the very first meetings we put together to discuss gang violence with a group of community leaders. We waited and waited for people to show up, and finally, a group of older people walked into the hall. And they sat down. And a little old lady raised her hand and asked, "Is this where the bingo game is?"

It wasn't easy, but eventually, we made progress. Day by day, block by block, we brought the community together, and registered new voters, and set up after school programs, and fought for new jobs, and helped people live lives with some measure of dignity.

But I also began to realize that I wasn't just helping other people. Through service, I found a community that embraced me; citizenship that was meaningful; the direction I'd been seeking. Through service, I discovered how my own improbable story fit into the larger story of America.

Each of you will have the chance to make your own discovery in the years to come. And I say "chance" because you won't have to take it. There's no community service requirement in the real world; no one forcing you to care. You can take your diploma, walk off this stage, and chase only after the big house and the nice suits and all the other things that our money culture says you should by. You can choose to narrow your concerns and live your life in a way that tries to keep your story separate from America's.

But I hope you don't. Not because you have an obligation to those who are less fortunate, though you do have that obligation. Not because you have a debt to all those who helped you get here, though you do have that debt.

It's because you have an obligation to yourself. Because our individual salvation depends on collective salvation. Because thinking only about yourself, fulfilling your immediate wants and needs, betrays a poverty of ambition. Because it's only when you hitch your wagon to something larger than yourself that you realize your true potential and discover the role you'll play in writing the next great chapter in America's story

There are so many ways to serve and so much need at this defining moment in our history. You don't have to be a community organizer or do something crazy like run for President. Right here at Wesleyan, many of you have already volunteered at local schools, contributed to United Way, and even started a program that brings fresh produce to needy families in the area. One hundred and sixty-four graduates of this school have joined the Peace Corps since 2001, and I'm especially proud that two of you are about to leave for my father's homeland of Kenya to bring alternative sources of energy to impoverished areas.

I ask you to seek these opportunities when you leave here, because the future of this country – your future – depends on it. At a time when our security and moral standing depend on winning hearts and minds in the forgotten corners of this world, we need more of you to serve abroad. As President, I intend to grow the Foreign Service, double the Peace Corps over the next few years, and engage the young people of other nations in similar programs, so that we work side by side to take on the common challenges that confront all humanity.

At a time when our ice caps are melting and our oceans are rising, we need you to help lead a green revolution. We still have time to avoid the catastrophic consequences of climate change if we get serious about investing in renewable sources of energy, and if we get a generation of volunteers to work on renewable energy projects, and teach folks about conservation, and help clean up polluted areas; if we send talented engineers and scientists abroad to help developing countries promote clean energy.

At a time when a child in Boston must compete with children in Beijing and Bangalore, we need an army of you to become teachers and principals in schools that this nation cannot afford to give up on. I will pay our educators what they deserve, and give them more support, but I will also ask more of them to be mentors to other teachers, and serve in high-need schools and high-need subject areas like math and science.

At a time when there are children in the city of New Orleans who still spend each night in a lonely trailer, we need more of you to take a weekend or a week off from work, and head down South, and help rebuild. If you can't get the time, volunteer at the local homeless shelter or soup kitchen in your own community. Find an organization that's fighting poverty, or a candidate who promotes policies you believe in, and find a way to help them.

At a time of war, we need you to work for peace. At a time of inequality, we need you to work for opportunity. At a time of so much cynicism and so much doubt, we need you to make us believe again.

Now understand this - believing that change is possible is not the same as being naïve. Go into service with your eyes wide open, for change will not come easily. On the big issues that our nation faces, difficult choices await. We'll have to face some hard truths, and some sacrifice will be required – not only from you individually, but from the nation as a whole.

There is no magic bullet to our energy problems, for example; no perfect energy source - so all of us will have to use the energy sources we have more wisely. Deep-rooted poverty will not be reversed overnight, and will require both money and reform at a time when our federal and state budgets are strapped and Washington is skeptical that reform is possible. Transforming our education system will require not only bold government action, but a change in attitudes among parents and students. Bringing an end to the slaughter in Darfur will involve navigating extremely difficult realities on the ground, even for those with the best of intentions.

And so, should you take the path of service, should you choose to take up one of these causes as your own, know that you'll experience frustrations and failures. Even your successes will be marked by imperfections and unintended consequences. I guarantee you, there will certainly be times when friends or family urge you to pursue more sensible endeavors with more tangible rewards. And there will be times when you are tempted to take their advice.

But I hope you'll remember, during those times of doubt and frustration, that there is nothing naïve about your impulse to change this world. Because all it takes is one act of service – one blow against injustice – to send forth that tiny ripple of hope that Robert Kennedy spoke of.

You know, Ted Kennedy often tells a story about the fifth anniversary celebration of the Peace Corps. He was there, and he asked one of the young Americans why he had chosen to volunteer. And the man replied, "Because it was the first time someone asked me to do something for my country."

I don't know how many of you have been asked that question, but after today, you have no excuses. I am asking you, and if I should have the honor of serving this nation as President, I will be asking again in the coming years. We may disagree on certain issues and positions, but I believe we can be unified in service to a greater good. I intend to make it a cause of my presidency, and I believe with all my heart that this generation is ready, and eager, and up to the challenge.

We will face our share of cynics and doubters. But we always have. I can still remember a conversation I had with an older man all those years ago just before I left for Chicago. He said, "Barack, I'll give you a bit of advice. Forget this community organizing business and do something that's gonna make you some money. You can't change the world, and people won't appreciate you trying. But you've got a nice voice, so you should think about going into television broadcasting. I'm telling you, you've got a future."

Now, he may have been right about the TV thing, but he was wrong about everything else. For that old man has not seen what I have seen. He has not seen the faces of ordinary people the first time they clear a vacant lot or build a new playground or force an unresponsive leader to provide services to their community. He has not seen the face of a child brighten because of an inspiring teacher or mentor. He has not seen scores of young people educate their parents on issues like Darfur, or mobilize the conscience of a nation around the challenge of climate change. He has not seen lines of men and women that wrap around schools and churches, that stretch block after block just so they could make their voices heard, many for the very first time.

And that old man who didn't believe the world could change – who didn't think one person could make a difference – well he certainly didn't know much about the life of Joseph Kennedy's youngest son.

It is rare in this country of ours that a person exists who has touched the lives of nearly every single American without many of us even realizing it. And yet, because of Ted Kennedy, millions of children can see a doctor when they get sick. Mothers and fathers can leave work to spend time with their newborns. Working Americans are paid higher wages, and compensated for overtime, and can keep their health insurance when they change jobs. They are protected from discrimination in the workplace, and those who are born with disabilities can still get an education, and health care, and fair treatment on the job. Our schools are stronger and our colleges are filled with more Americans who can afford it. And I have a feeling that Ted Kennedy is not done just yet.

But surely, if one man can achieve so much and make such a difference in the lives of so many, then each of us can do our part. Surely, if his service and his story can forever shape America's story, then our collective service can shape the destiny of this generation. At the very least, his living example calls each of us to try. That is all I ask of you on this joyous day of new beginnings; that is what Senator Kennedy asks of you as well, and that is how we will keep so much needed work going, and the cause of justice everlasting, and the dream alive for generations to come. Thank you so much to the class of 2008, and congratulations on your graduation.

That's all. I don't have anything more to say right now. I just want to give a little bit more exposure to what I think is a great speech and a great article. Of course if you are inspired it wouldn't hurt to donate or take action in one of the remaining states (Puerto Rico, Montana or South Dakota) and while the nomination is not certain we also have to start getting networked and organized for the general election. With that in mind fellow blogger kid oakland suggested two steps

Join the Netroots for Barack Obama listserv.

Join other Kossacks on the Obama campaigns networking site, My.BarackObama.com. It's a great tool for getting organized and networked with fellow Obama suporters. So sign up and if you want to join your fellow Kossacks then search for and join a group called Kossacks for Obama. (You should also enter your zip code and join a group near you.)

That should only take 5-10 minutes of your time and doing those two things will plug you into a tremendous network and give you tools that we have never had before.

This campaign is about the common good.

Yes. We. Can.

Don't ever forget that this campaign is about you

2008-07-21T15:18:00.000-07:00

From May 6th, 2008

Tonight Barack Obama gave a fantastic speech. But one part really stood out to me.

So don't ever forget that this election is not about me, or any candidate. Don't ever forget that this campaign is about you-- about your hopes, about your dreams, about your struggles, about securing your portion of the American Dream.

In the end that's really what this campaign is about. It's about us. Together. Together over 1,500,000 of us have taken ownership of this campaign and donated. We have made this campaign about us not about the special interests and there same old Washington games. Today the people of North Carolina and Indiana rejected the same old Washington distractions. They rejected the same old Washington gimmicks. They sent a strong message.

Now we need to send another huge message by showing our support by Obama. In other words, DONATING. We can start to wrap this nomination up and give us strong momentum going into the general election. We can send a message.

Here is that speech in full:

You know, some were saying that North Carolina would be a game-changer in this election. But today, what North Carolina decided is that the only game that needs changing is the one in Washington, DC.

I want to start by congratulating Senator Clinton on her victory in the state of Indiana. And I want to thank the people of North Carolina for giving us a victory in a big state, a swing state, and a state where we will compete to win if I am the Democratic nominee for President of the United States.

When this campaign began, Washington didn't give us much of a chance. But because you came out in the bitter cold, and knocked on doors, and enlisted your friends and neighbors in this cause; because you stood up to the cynics, and the doubters, and the nay-sayers when we were up and when we were down; because you still believe that this is our moment, and our time, for change-- tonight we stand less than two hundred delegates away from securing the Democratic nomination for President of the United States.

More importantly, because of you, we have seen that it's possible to overcome the politics of division and distraction; that it's possible to overcome the same old negative attacks that are always about scoring points and never about solving our problems. We've seen that the American people aren't looking for more spin or more gimmicks, but honest answers about the challenges we face. That's what you've accomplished in this campaign, and that's how we'll change this country together.

This has been one of the longest, most closely fought contests in history. And that's partly because we have such a formidable opponent in Senator Hillary Clinton. Tonight, many of the pundits have suggested that this party is inalterably divided-– that Senator Clinton's supporters will not support me, and that my supporters will not support her.

Well I'm here tonight to tell you that I don't believe it. Yes, there have been bruised feelings on both sides. Yes, each side desperately wants their candidate to win. But ultimately, this race is not about Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama or John McCain. This election is about you-- the American people-- and whether we will have a president and a party that can lead us toward a brighter future.

This primary season may not be over, but when it is, we will have to remember who we are as Democrats-- that we are the party of Jefferson and Jackson; of Roosevelt and Kennedy; and that we are at our best when we lead with principle; when we lead with conviction; when we summon an entire nation around a common purpose-- a higher purpose. This fall, we intend to march forward as one Democratic Party, united by a common vision for this country. Because we all agree that at this defining moment in history-- a moment when we're facing two wars, an economy in turmoil, a planet in peril-- we can't afford to give John McCain the chance to serve out George Bush's third term. We need change in America.

The woman I met in Indiana who just lost her job, and her pension, and her insurance when the plant where she worked at her entire life closed down-- she can't afford four more years of tax breaks for corporations like the one that shipped her job overseas. She needs us to give tax breaks to companies that create good jobs here in America. She can't afford four more years of tax breaks for CEOs like the one who walked away from her company with a multi-million dollar bonus. She needs middle-class tax relief that will help her pay the skyrocketing price of groceries, and gas, and college tuition. That's why I'm running for President.

The college student I met in Iowa who works the night shift after a full day of class and still can't pay the medical bills for a sister who's ill-- she can't afford four more years of a health care plan that only takes care of the healthy and the wealthy; that allows insurance companies to discriminate and deny coverage to those Americans who need it most. She needs us to stand up to those insurance companies and pass a plan that lowers every family's premiums and gives every uninsured American the same kind of coverage that Members of Congress give themselves. That's why I'm running for President.

The mother in Wisconsin who gave me a bracelet inscribed with the name of the son she lost in Iraq; the families who pray for their loved ones to come home; the heroes on their third and fourth and fifth tour of duty-- they can't afford four more years of a war that should've never been authorized and never been waged. They can't afford four more years of our veterans returning to broken-down barracks and substandard care. They need us to end a war that isn't making us safer. They need us to treat them with the care and respect they deserve. That's why I'm running for President.

The man I met in Pennsylvania who lost his job but can't even afford the gas to drive around and look for a new one-- he can't afford four more years of an energy policy written by the oil companies and for the oil companies; a policy that's not only keeping gas at record prices, but funding both sides of the war on terror and destroying our planet in the process. He doesn't need four more years of Washington policies that sound good, but don't solve the problem. He needs us to take a permanent holiday from our oil addiction by making the automakers raise their fuel standards, corporations pay for their pollution, and oil companies invest their record profits in a clean energy future. That's the change we need. And that's why I'm running for President.

The people I've met in small towns and big cities across this country understand that government can't solve all our problems-- and we don't expect it to. We believe in hard work. We believe in personal responsibility and self-reliance.

But we also believe that we have a larger responsibility to one another as Americans-- that America is a place-- that America is the place-- where you can make it if you try. That no matter how much money you start with or where you come from or who your parents are, opportunity is yours if you're willing to reach for it and work for it. It's the idea that while there are few guarantees in life, you should be able to count on a job that pays the bills; health care for when you need it; a pension for when you retire; an education for your children that will allow them to fulfill their God-given potential. That's the America we believe in. That's the America I know.

This is the country that gave my grandfather a chance to go to college on the GI Bill when he came home from World War II; a country that gave him and my grandmother the chance to buy their first home with a loan from the government.

This is the country that made it possible for my mother-- a single parent who had to go on food stamps at one point-- to send my sister and me to the best schools in the country on scholarships.

This is the country that allowed my father-in-law-- a city worker at a South Side water filtration plant-- to provide for his wife and two children on a single salary. This is a man who was diagnosed at age thirty with multiple sclerosis-- who relied on a walker to get himself to work. And yet, every day he went, and he labored, and he sent my wife and her brother to one of the best colleges in the nation. It was a job that didn't just give him a paycheck, but a sense of dignity and self-worth. It was an America that didn't just reward wealth, but the work and the workers who created it.

Somewhere along the way, between all the bickering and the influence-peddling and the game-playing of the last few decades, Washington and Wall Street have lost touch with these values. And while I honor John McCain's service to his country, his ideas for America are out of touch with these values. His plans for the future are nothing more than the failed policies of the past. And his plan to win in November appears to come from the very same playbook that his side has used time after time in election after election.

Yes, we know what's coming. We've seen it already. The same names and labels they always pin on everyone who doesn't agree with all their ideas. The same efforts to distract us from the issues that affect our lives by pouncing on every gaffe and association and fake controversy in the hope that the media will play along. The attempts to play on our fears and exploit our differences to turn us against each other for pure political gain-- to slice and dice this country into Red States and Blue States; blue-collar and white-collar; white and black, and brown.

This is what they will do-- no matter which one of us is the nominee. The question, then, is not what kind of campaign they'll run, it's what kind of campaign we will run. It's what we will do to make this year different. I didn't get into race thinking that I could avoid this kind of politics, but I am running for President because this is the time to end it.

We will end it this time not because I'm perfect-- I think by now this campaign has reminded all of us of that. We will end it not by duplicating the same tactics and the same strategies as the other side, because that will just lead us down the same path of polarization and gridlock.

We will end it by telling the truth-- forcefully, repeatedly, confidently-- and by trusting that the American people will embrace the need for change.

Because that's how we've always changed this country-- not from the top-down, but from the bottom-up; when you-- the American people-- decide that the stakes are too high and the challenges are too great.

The other side can label and name-call all they want, but I trust the American people to recognize that it's not surrender to end the war in Iraq so that we can rebuild our military and go after al Qaeda's leaders. I trust the American people to understand that it's not weakness, but wisdom to talk not just to our friends, but our enemies-- like Roosevelt did, and Kennedy did, and Truman did.

I trust the American people to realize that while we don't need big government, we do need a government that stands up for families who are being tricked out of their homes by Wall Street predators; a government that stands up for the middle-class by giving them a tax break; a government that ensures that no American will ever lose their life savings just because their child gets sick. Security and opportunity; compassion and prosperity aren't liberal values or conservative values-- they're American values.

Most of all, I trust the American people's desire to no longer be defined by our differences. Because no matter where I've been in this country-- whether it was the corn fields of Iowa or the textile mills of the Carolinas; the streets of San Antonio or the foothills of Georgia-- I've found that while we may have different stories, we hold common hopes. We may not look the same or come from the same place, but we want to move in the same direction-- towards a better future for our children and our grandchildren.

That's why I'm in this race. I love this country too much to see it divided and distracted at this moment in history. I believe in our ability to perfect this union because it's the only reason I'm standing here today. And I know the promise of America because I have lived it.

It is the light of opportunity that led my father across an ocean.

It is the founding ideals that the flag draped over my grandfather's coffin stands for-- it is life, and liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

It's the simple truth I learned all those years ago when I worked in the shadows of a shuttered steel mill on the South Side of Chicago-- that in this country, justice can be won against the greatest of odds; hope can find its way back to the darkest of corners; and when we are told that we cannot bring about the change that we seek, we answer with one voice-- yes we can.

So don't ever forget that this election is not about me, or any candidate. Don't ever forget that this campaign is about you-- about your hopes, about your dreams, about your struggles, about securing your portion of the American Dream.

Don't ever forget that we have a choice in this country-- that we can choose not to be divided; that we can choose not to be afraid; that we can still choose this moment to finally come together and solve the problems we've talked about all those other years in all those other elections.

This time can be different than all the rest. This time we can face down those who say our road is too long; that our climb is too steep; that we can no longer achieve the change that we seek. This is our time to answer the call that so many generations of Americans have answered before-- by insisting that by hard work, and by sacrifice, the American Dream will endure. Thank you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

The time is now to step up. This campaign is about you. This campaign is about us. Yes we can. Let's add to Obama's victory. Donate today for all of us. Let's send a strong message with one voice-- yes we can.

DONATE

Keep Fighting. Yes. We. Can.

2008-07-21T15:14:00.000-07:00

From April 22nt, 2008

The results are still trickling in from Pennsylvania. The people have voted. We can't change how they voted.

But what we can do is keep fighting.

We still have Guam, Indiana, North Carolina, West Virgina, Kentucky, Oregon, Puerto Rico, South Dakota and Montana. All of them still need to vote and we still need to be working hard to win.

It probably isn't a good time to phonebank or canvass any of those states but there is one way we can help out right now and show this campaign is still going strong.

And that is donating.

..................................................

You can say yes we can.

You can send a strong message for change.

Let's keep fighting.

..................................................

Donate. Yes. We. Can.

BREAKING: 10-Point Swing Towards Obama! (With your help)

2008-07-21T15:12:00.000-07:00

From April 19th, 2008

The only way to influence polls is to take action and change minds. Don't you want to see a "OBAMA WINS PA" headline? Don't you want a big swing in the polls towards Obama? The only way to make that happen is to take action. This morning kath25 posted a great action diary that didn't get much attention so I asked if I could repost it. Hopefully this headline will get you to see this and take action. And if your not a phonebanking type you can always donate.

Obsessing over the latest ups and downs doesn't do anything. Taking action does. Read kath's easy ways to take action below the flip and take action. Even if it's just twenty minutes of your time. It makes a difference. It will help bring the 10-Point Swing Towards Obama!

This is the last weekend to help Obama in Pennsylvania! We’ve all seen the great photo diaries from last night’s 40,000+ supporter rally in Philly. Obama’s leading the news across the Keystone State.

Now, Obama needs your help to capitalize on this attention and turn it into VOTES. Remember, folks, it’s votes that count. How do we get more votes? Easy – we make calls. Today, it’s all about phonebanking, and Obama needs your help.

I’ve got a community phonebanking diary set up here, and to make it more fun for you all, a few local Philly celebrities have agreed to drop in and encourage us.

Call Pennsylvania Voters
Use the online phonebanking tool and call PA voters. Even just 20 calls can make a difference and win voters for Obama. Will you join us in making a difference? Call voters in PA.

Call Pennsylvania Women
Women for Obama, let’s remind women in Pennsylvania that they have a real choice for a great feminist man who cares deeply about women’s issues. Call women in PA.

Call Pennsylvania Students
Fellow young people, let’s keep our turnout high in this election and keep making a difference in selecting our next President. Let’s kill that "apathetic youth" meme once and for all. Call students in PA.

Call Pennsylvania Veterans
Obama wants to honor, respect, and care for our veterans. Vets, grab those phones and call other vets in PA and explain to them why Obama is the best candidate to keep our nation’s sacred promise to those who serve in the military. Call PA veterans.

Now, I promised you local Philly celebrities to inspire you all to make these calls, and here they are.

Ben Franklin can’t endorse Obama, but if you believe in the founding father’s message, you’ll want to make calls on his behalf. As Ben once said himself, "Hide not your talents, they for use were made. What's a sun-dial in the shade?" Ben didn’t have a phone, but if he did, I know "sun-dial" would be replaced with "cell phone" and "shade" with "pocket." So take out those phones and get dialing! Let’s provide some back-up to the volunteers on the ground in PA today and make calls. Can you give just one hour of your time today? After all, as Ben Franklin says, "He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else."

It’s no surprise that McNabb should be making a phonebanking play, given that Obama’s such a sports fan. McNabb’s calling an audible from the line, and needs you to reach out to those PA voters today. He doesn’t like the look of Hillary’s defense, and he’s calling on you to help get things done for Obama. Plus, if that’s not good enough, it’ll really piss off Rush Limbaugh. (Note: as far as I know, McNabb hasn’t actually endorsed Obama. Yet.)

Ahh, the noble Philly cheesesteak. That cheesesteak can’t make calls today, but you sure can. This luscious lunchmeat knows that change starts with you. So put down that sandwich and pick up that phone. Call voters across PA and tell them why YOU support Obama, and why you think he’s the best person to be President of our great country. Then, once you’ve made your calls, go reward yourself with some greasy goodness.

Ok, now that I've suckered you in with my silly cartoons, please take an hour and make calls today.

Call Pennsylvania Voters.
Call Pennsylvania women.
Call Pennsylvania Students.
Call Pennsylvania Veterans.

If you're new to phonebanking, ask questions in the comments and myself or another seasoned caller will help you out. Also, check out these diaries by Elise:

How to (Ba)Rock a Phonebank
How To (Ba)Rock a Phonebank II

The Most Important Thing You Can Do Today is Call.

The only reason why Obama has made it this far is through the tremendous outpouring of support from volunteers such as yourself. He has a great message and an amazing staff, but it's the commitment of regular people like all of us who spend our time spreading his message of hope in the future, change for the better and a government that will actually serve the people that has carried him to a lead in votes, states, and delegates.

Let's keep it going. I'm committed to supporting Obama all the way to Denver, and then November, and then inauguration day and beyond. None of us can get there alone. Who's with me in making some calls today?

UPDATE: Want some more inspiration? Here is Barack today out meeting the good people of PA.

UPDATE2: Also if you are not comfortable phonebanking here are some handy tips.

Fight Back! Call to Obamaction: Day 2

2008-07-21T15:10:00.000-07:00

From April 17th, 2008

Last night I posted a call to action after one of the most unfair and uninformative debates ever. It got a overwhelming response and tons of donations poured in. But we can't just do that for one night. We have primaries to win still and we need to keep the focus on action up. We still need to be taking action. Calling voters in PA. Traveling to PA for GOTV. Donating to the campaign so they have the resources to win. Doing whatever you can. And so I bring you the third day of Obama Action Week.

To get you all fired up and ready to go here is a fantastic video I have just stumbled upon.

It isn't allowing me to embed it but I strongly urge you to go to Al Gore's The Current here and watch the whole thing.

I think that video captures very well the spirit of this grassroots campaign. It is well worth 10 minutes of your time.

Another one of my favorite and inspiring videos from this campaign is the amazing story of Joshua Stroman.

I think those videos are really representative of the amazing enthusiasm and grassroots energy we have seen in this campaign. It is Obama's Army, or as I like to call it, his Machinery of Hope, that has gotten us this far. That's us. We have gotten him from here:

To where we are today. Millions strong. No one would have guessed we would come this far but we've proved them wrong. And that's why the talking heads are on the attack. But we will see worse then this. This is just the Democratic primary. After that comes the general election were we will face John McSame and the same kind of Karl Rove style-swift boating that they always give us. But worse. We will have to fight back again and again. But we are going to do that by taking action. Knocking on doors. Calling people. Donating. Organizing. Traveling. We will fight back and we will take this country back for the people. That is the long term goal. But we need to take it day by day and the next short term focus that we have is Pennsylvania. It would take a miracle to win but we have done it before, the least we can do is keep it close.

Let's make it happen. Hit the phones. Hit the road. Hit the donate button.

If you're walking down the right path and you're willing to keep walking, eventually you'll make progress. - Barack Obama

Yes. We. Can.

MAKE CALLS - TRAVEL - DONATAE

Fight Back! Post-Debate Call to Obamaction

2008-07-21T15:09:00.001-07:00

From April 16th, 2008

Tonight we saw one of the biggest "gotcha politics" debates yet. The moderators seemed set on destroying Obama by using trivial matters to play "gotcha!" Tonight we also saw why Barack Obama is the right canidate for president. Tonight he showed why he is the right canidate to take on John McCain and the right canidate to turn around our country. Because he fought back by talking about what Americans care about. The issues.

Time and time again the moderators tried to use trivial matters to divide us and time and time again Barack Obama responded by talking about the serious problems facing our country. Health care, Iraq, the economy, the environment. And then they would attack again using the same old right-wing frames.

I think Barack got it right. The American people and the people of Pennsylvania are better then that. They can see through the petty attacks and they will vote on the real issues. They will see Obama's record and his plan. And that record and that plan is clear.

Barack Obama will pass a comprehensive 100% Cap and Auction Carbon emissions plan.

Barack Obama will make massive investments in energy independence.

Barack Obama will invest in energy efficiency and promote fuel efficiency and alternatives to driving.

Barack Obama voted to eliminate Cluster Bombs.

Barack Obama is opposed to the militarization of space.

Barack Obama has set a goal of the elimination of nuclear weapons, but will not do so unilaterally.

Barack Obama will target and attack those who attack our nation and build alliances with everyone else.

Barack Obama will meet with leaders of foreign countries and rebuild our nation's relationships around the world.

Barack Obama will make sensible reforms to United States policy towards Cuba, allowing more visits and more economic exchange with Cuba for Cuban-American families.

Barack Obama will double United States humanitarian foreign aid.

Barack Obama will pass comprehensive immigration reform in his first year in office.

Barack Obama will stand with Caucus for Priorities for sensible reductions in our military expenditures and reinvestment in our infratructure and our people. Watch this video.

Barack Obama is for portable, opt-out pensions for working families.

Barack Obama is for ready return income tax returns that benefit all Americans who have straightforward taxes.

Barack Obama will eliminate income taxes entirely for fixed income seniors making under $50,000 a year.

Barack Obama is for a Universal Health Care plan that has shared responsibility between Government, Business and Individuals.

Barack Obama is for true net neutrality.

Barack Obama is for transparency in our government and public access to the work done in Washington D.C.

Barack Obama voted for accountability on FISA.

Barack Obama contributed to the effort to reverse the South Dakota abortion ban.

Barack Obama will pay our teachers more.

Barack Obama will create a national service program for college students.

Barack Obama will routinely ask parents to help in the education of their children.

Barack Obama will pass a law banning replacement workers.

Barack Obama has spoken out against homophobia and Anti-Semitism at African American churches.

Barack Obama has spoken in favor of condom use to combat AIDS at evangelical mega churches.

Barack Obama and his wife Michelle took a public HIV test in Kenya to promote testing as a means of preventing the spread of AIDS/HIV.

Barack Obama has made the central internal credo of his campaign be the three words, Respect, Empower, Include.

Barack Obama graduated from Columbia University and went to work as a community organizer on Chicago's South Side.

Barack Obama is a Constitutional Scholar who will promote respect for the rule of law and a return to respect for the Constitution within our Exectutive Branch.

Finally, Barack Obama understands the meaning of the fundamental moral imperatives that underly the politics of our party. (Watch that clip.)

---------------

But while that record and his strong debate performance might have sealed the deal for some people they also might not come out to vote.

We can't afford that.

If you agree with me that Barack Obama should be president then we can't just watch debates and see how well Barack performed. We need to turn that performance into votes by taking action. Calling voters in PA. Traveling to PA for GOTV. Donating to the campaign so they have the resources to win. Writing a letter to the editor saying how well you thought Barack did.

Barack is doing everything he can and he just did very well in the debate. I think we owe it to him to do our share of the work.

He just endured two hours of relentless right-wing attacks from a media that wants desperately to tear him down. The least we can do is fight back and take action!

If you have had enough of gotcha politics. Take action.

If you want real change in America. Take action.

If you want to see Barack Obama as President on January 20th, 2009. Take action.

We can do this but it won't happen if we stay on the sidelines.

Democracy begins with you. Tag. Your it.

GET ACTIVE!

Yes. We. Can.

MAKE CALLS - TRAVEL - DONATAE

To Obama Supporters: It's The Action, Stupid.

2008-07-21T15:07:00.000-07:00

From April 15th, 2008

It's the economy, stupid. That was the famous banner in Bill Clinton's Little Rock War Room.

Once again the economy is a major issue. So is Iraq. So is health care. So are a whole host of other issues.

But issues only matter if they can be communicated to the American people. And you can't get any kind of message across unless you have campaign funds, unless you have dedicated volunteers that pick up the phone and call voters, that go door to door and do all the other work that needs to be done.

Polls have zero effect on the election. Daily up and downs have almost no effect on the election.

Frankly if you want Barack Obama to win the only thing that matters is action. In other words. It's the action, stupid.

So far 1,327,935 people have taken action by donating.

Many of those have gotten involved and signed up to volunteer or attended a event.

14,265,507 people have taken action by going to the polls and voting for Barack Obama.

Many more will, and the only way to get more people to do that is by action.

Today kath25 kicked off Obama Action Week in a effort to get us here to start focusing a bit more on action. casperr followed that up by writing a fantastic diary "How Badly do you want Barack to be our next President?." However neither got much exposure. So I thought I would add my voice.

More than 10,000 Pennsylvanians signed a letter that speaks out against the recent attacks in support of Barack Obama. Pennsylvania is a hard state for Barack to win but the only way we can change that is by taking action. Can you imagine how great it would be to win Pennsylvania? The race would be over. Don't you want the race over? Then take action.

Call people. I know it doesn't sound fun but it makes a difference.

Another thing that helps. And when I say helps I mean helps is person to person contact. Unless you are in PA or have invented some kind of magical technology you have to hit the road and travel to PA if you want to talk to people and convince them to vote for Barack face to face. I understand many of you cant. But if you possibly can, PLEASE do.

Or if you can't do either of those you can always donate. Join 1,328,325 others and your donation will be matched by someone else. Running political campaigns is not easy or cheap. So donate.

Do whatever you can do. But please, please do something. Meet or exceed Gov. Jim Hodges challenge to spend 20 minutes a day helping elect Barack.

We can't afford to wait for change any longer. One of my favorite radio talk show hosts, Thom Hartmann, ends each show with a challenge:

Democracy begins with you, activism begins with you. Tag, your it.

Tag. Your it. What will you do to help elect Barack Obama?

Yes. We. Can.

1,309,965

2008-07-21T15:05:00.000-07:00

From April 14th, 2008

As of 10:09 CT that is how many people have donated to Obama for America.

14,265,507 American citizens have voted Barack Obama for president and many more will.

Back on that cold day, February 10th. Who would have thought that?

Not a whole lot of people. But a army of millions of people worked there tail off and focused on the goal. And that is how we have come so far.

The only way a movement like that can be stopped is by distraction.

By taking remarks out of context and claiming someone who was paying collage loans off a few years ago is a elitist.

An elitist? An elitist?

The belief that certain persons or members of certain classes or groups deserve favored treatment by virtue of their perceived superiority, as in intellect, social status, or financial resources.

a. The sense of entitlement enjoyed by such a group or class.

b. Control, rule, or domination by such a group or class.

You mean Barack Obama, the guy who was a community organizer? Elitist?

But that is the game that has to be played. It makes us all distracted so we spend time worrying and not doing anything.

We can't fall into that trap.

I don't have a whole lot to say. But if you are worried about this then stop it and do something about it. That is the only thing that will help.

Hit the phones, hit the road, write a letter to the editor, go to a event, volunteer, donate. Do SOMETHING.

As Paul Wellstone said, the future will not belong to those who stand on the sidelines. We don't have time for distraction. It's time for action.

And since it is probably too late to do many of those things (except for donating) I will leave you with two videos to reflect on.

and

Yes. We. Can.

Step it Up for People-Powered Politics

2008-07-21T15:03:00.000-07:00

From April 10th, 2008

Recently fellow blogger Eddie in ME alerted me to a situation in Maine in which Rita Moran, the Kennebec County Democratic Committee chair, got kicked out of her elected position as DNC Women by establishment trickery.

Here in the netroots we pride our selfs in being part of the people-powered politics movement but this is the time when we need to step it up and take action on behalf of people-powered politics! In this essay I'll try to give a brief of what happened and how we can take action!

What happened:

In November, Jennifer DeChant who was a DNC Women (kind of like the board of directors for the DNC), missed her third consecutive meeting of the Democratic State Committee. According to state party rules, the position was vacated and she had to run for reelection. So progressive activists drafted Rita to run as a people-powered canidate. She accepted and won the position. One of those activists and a fellow blogger Eddie in ME wrote a great blog about that story.

However the establishment didn't like that a grassroots reformer had won. So as soon as she had won they started trying to oust her. They did this based on saying inadequate notice was given (it was stated at the November meeting, and in the agenda). The real reason that they didn't want Rita as DNC Women is that she is a grassroots reformer. But there is no rule against that so the establishment had to find other ways to kick Rita out. Here is a basic overview of what they did.

- Stan Gerzofsky, State Rep. from Brunswick sent a letter to John Knutson, State Party Chair, complaining that the notice of the DNC election was not adequate. Stan requested a repeal of the election. (He did so on legislative letterhead- a big no-no.) - John did not report the results of Rita's election to the DNC. Had he, a repeal would not have been permitted under Robert's Rules of Order. The DNC had listed Rita as the DNC Woman, then reversed course upon request from Arden Manning, the Executive Director of the MDP and resisted Jennifer DeChant (the former DNC women who lost the election). No matter what, this was incorrect-either Rita was the DNC Woman, or if not her, the position was vacant as of January.

-The State Rules Committee stated that a repeal was permitted under the rules since Rita was not seated as DNC Woman. However, the election would have had to have been illegal or illegitimate (they determined it was not), or irreparable personal damage would have been done to Jennifer DeChant. In addition, it was stated that the injured party would be expected to define "adequate notice" (they did not).

-At the March meeting of the State Central Committee, a vote was held to repeal the January DNC Election. The repeal passed by about five or six votes. A new election was held immediately, and Jennifer DeChant was reelected to her post on the DNC.

At this point there is nothing that can be done about that. The election was immediately reported to the DNC (funny how that happens only when a insider favored canidate wins). However there are two ways that we can still help. Rita is running for a four year term as DNC Women at the State Convention and needs our help to win. That will not make her a delegate to the national convention this year but there is a add-on delegate slot open.

Step it up: How to take action for people-power politics:

We need to step it up for people-powered politics now. We need to stand with Rita. But how? How can we help Rita get the add-on delegate slot and send a grassroots delegate to Denver? Easy.

Add-on Delegate:
There is a open slot for add-on delegate to the national convention in Denver. John Knutson, the state party chair, can right this wrong by appointing Rita to the slot. There are two ways to urge him to take this step. One is calling the Maine Democratic Party office at (207) 622-6233 and the other is e-mailing him at chair (AT) mainedems (DOT) org. John isn't a bad guy so be polite. Say that you think the procedure that ousted Rita was unfair and you believe she would be a excellent canidate for the add-on delegate position. Don't be nasty, just state positive reasons why you think Rita should be chosen. Here are a few suggestions of things to talk about if you call or e-mail.

-Who you are, where your from.
-That they've been following the
story.
-That Rita's a great volunteer, and a great activist, who has
done great things for her county, and that hard work deserves rewards.
-That it's important that we heal the rift in the party around the
country, and this would be a step toward doing it in Maine.
-That we
need more outsiders and Progressives at the convention.
-Anything else you can think of!

Rita for DNC:

Also, Rita is running for a new four-year term as DNC Woman at the state convention. This will NOT make her a superdelegate for 2008, but 2012. She is one of the leaders in the grassroots of the Maine Democratic Party but she needs our help. She has lots of energy behind her campaign but she needs some resources to run a campaign. She will need between $3k-5k, to run a campaign. This covers everything- signs, buttons, stickers, phone calls, the list of delegates and alternates, mailing to each of them, everything.

Two candidates are running against Rita thus far. One is Maggie Allen, the former Executive Director of the MDP. She was in charge when Pat Colwell, the state party chair who resigned in disgrace following a major scandal, was running the show. The other is Betty Johnson, the party treasurer in the same era. It's old guard scandal versus new blood.

But can Rita win? YES. This is a state that Obama won 60-40, and she advocates for his brand of politics- grassroots driven, bottom up. She wants to represent the people, not the money. If the Obama and grassroots delegates coalesce around her as their choice, she will win handily.

The real question that we should ask before we support her though is why. Why is Rita running for DNC? I'll let her speak for herself.

I am running for the Democratic National Committee because I think that you, ordinary Maine Democrats like me, deserve a national voice.

I believe that, after this election is over and we have a Democrat in the White House, this party needs to take a long, hard look at itself. We need to decide what works, and what does not.

Just as presidential candidates are calling for change, and rightly so, we Democrats need to decide what needs to change in our own party as well. We were founded by people like Thomas Jefferson and James Madison because they believed that a party which represented ordinary people was needed if our American democracy were to survive and prosper.

Friends, I believe that we need a course correction, we need to get back to our ideals, stop this superdelegate nonsense, and make every Democrat count, and count equally. I will try to make that happen. Remember, the political insiders got to where they are because of people like us, making phone calls, donating to campaigns, and getting out the vote.

If I'm elected to the DNC, and it will not possible without your help, I hope to be your voice, your clear strong voice, on the national stage.

Thanks for listening.

Rita Moran

That sounds like the kind of person we need on the DNC. But she needs our help. Time to Step it Up for People-Powerd Politics and Donate to Rita for DNC!

I've talked to Eddie and he will be in the comments answering any questions about the situation. If we want a change in the nation and in our party we have to take it back. We must step it up for people-powered politics.