Sunday, March 30, 2008

not big on quitting

Dear john,

Here's the most important thing you need to know about this race: it's neck-and-neck.

Only 130 delegates separate Hillary from Senator Obama -- and that's not counting Florida and Michigan. The difference in popular vote is less than 1 percent, and millions of voters have yet to make their voices heard. This election should be about their choice.

But now we're hearing people -- elected officials, party members, and Obama campaign surrogates -- call for Hillary to pull out.

With the race this close, it sure doesn't make sense to me that she'd leave now -- does it make sense to you?

There's no better way to tell Hillary that you support her staying in than to make a contribution to her campaign -- and no better time to contribute than right now.

We're facing a big deadline on Monday. Our opponents and the media will scrutinize our fundraising reports and look for any sign of weakness. By making a contribution today, you can help make sure we show nothing but strength.

Contribute by our midnight Monday deadline to help us show our strength.

I know that Hillary never forgets exactly why she is running. Her commitment to the people of this country never wavers.

At this critical moment, all of us supporting Hillary must make sure we are just as focused as she is. With all the talk of the state of the race, all the people telling her she should just give up, you and I must make sure she has everything she needs to stay in this race.

With our big fundraising deadline coming up midnight Monday, we need to show the critics and the doubters that this campaign is running full steam ahead with the determination to win.

Contribute now to help us reach our $3 million goal by midnight Monday.

My family isn't big on quitting. Hillary's in this race to win, and she's in it thanks to you.

Sincerely,

Bill Clinton
Bill Clinton

The Pattern




Help us reach $3 million by our March filing deadline!
Dear john,

Have you noticed the pattern?

Every time our campaign demonstrates its strength and resilience, people start to suggest we should end our pursuit of the Democratic nomination.

Those anxious to force us to the sidelines aren't doing it because they think we're going to lose the upcoming primaries. The fact is, they're reading the same polls we are, and they know we are in a position to win.

In three days, we're facing a critical March filing deadline -- another chance to show the strength of our campaign. Let's take these three days to make something absolutely clear: we aren't going to simply step aside. You and I are going to keep fighting for what we believe in, and together, we're going to win.

Contribute today to help us raise $3 million by the March filing deadline at midnight Monday.

Every time we are challenged to prove the strength and durability of our appeal to voters, we meet our goals. We did it in New Hampshire, we did it on February 5, and we did it again this month in Texas and Ohio.

With the March filing deadline, we have the chance to show our strength again. This is a crucial test as we approach the next big primary in Pennsylvania and the contests that follow.

Millions of voters are still waiting to have their say. Let's make sure they have a chance to be heard.

Contribute today to help us raise $3 million by the March filing deadline at midnight Monday.

At times like this, with everything on the line, it means so much to me to know that I can rely on you to meet the challenges we face head-on.

Thank you for everything,

Hillary
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Click here to RSVP

darfur crisis: made in china

human rights first.  The New Name of Lawyers Committee for Human Rights.

[not particularly "politics"-worthy, but it deserves to be put to the public.]


Dear matt,

Seize this opportunity to save lives in Darfur
Save lives in darfur

Donate today to Human Rights First’s Made In China campaign to stop the deadly arms flow from China!

Sitting at your computer, it’s hard to grasp the horrible atrocities still taking place in Darfur every day. How can the killing continue, years later?

One major contributor: China’s continued sale of guns and bullets to Sudan – the very weapons used to kill, maim, and terrorize in Darfur.

Our recent report, “Investing in Tragedy,” reveals the link in stark relief, and newspapers and government officials are starting to take notice of the facts. The Chinese government has publicly denounced our report. Now Human Rights First is launching a major campaign to stop China from fueling the violence in Darfur and you play an important part.

Your tax-deductible gift of $35 or more today can help support this important work. We need to reach $30,000 by April 9.

Why is April 9th our deadline for gifts? On that day, the Olympic torch for the 2008 Beijing Games will stop in North America. Protesters will rally, further exposing China’s role in Darfur’s deadly crisis. From now until the Olympics, China is in a vulnerable place. We need to act while China is feeling the heat.

Let’s be clear about the vicious cycle that sustains the violence in Darfur: China buys Sudan’s oil; Sudan buys China’s guns; the guns are used to massacre the people of Darfur. This cycle must end now. If we can stop the guns - and we believe it’s possible - we can stop the killing.

China has stopped selling arms under pressure in the past. If we can do it again, we can save countless lives.

Contribute today to Human Rights First’s campaign to stop the deadly flow of arms.

Consider the fact that China was ratcheting up its sales of arms to Sudan when other countries were decreasing their sales. By stopping the flow of arms to the conflict, we’ll get guns off the ground in Darfur and send a loud signal to Sudan that China, its main protector, expects a permanent resolution to this crisis.

The death, displacement and destruction must stop, and it is our responsibility to help – that means you and me. Many of you have already done much, but there is more for us to do that can and will make a difference. Today.

Please help us end the continuing suffering in Darfur.

My deepest gratitude for your support,

Maureen Byrnes
Executive Director

The McCain Update 2

The McCain Update - March 28, 2008

Next week, John McCain will embark on a "Service to America" tour visiting numerous locations that have played a significant role in shaping who he is today. Throughout the stops, he will introduce himself to the nation through a series of speeches and visits that trace the life of a man indebted to his nation, humbled by the opportunity to serve his country, honored by his family's love and deeply moved by his fellow Americans' courage and sacrifice.

The tour will highlight the events and figures that shaped his views of right and wrong, forgiveness and grace and the tradition of service and sacrifice ingrained in him from generations of McCains. The tour will include stops in Mississippi, Virginia, Maryland, Florida and his home state of Arizona. The "Service to America" tour will be about the future of America and the change John McCain will bring as president.

Visit www.JohnMcCain.com throughout next week for the latest updates from the tour as John McCain visits with voters, listening to their concerns and offering his vision for the future.

Ride the Bus Update: As you may have heard, we are offering another opportunity to join John McCain aboard the Straight Talk Express for a day on the campaign trail during his upcoming "Service to America" bus tour. You and a friend can join John McCain in Jacksonville, Florida for the day, riding the bus and attending events including his speech at Cecil Field. Remember, if you can give $50 or more, not only will you be entered to win a ride on the Straight Talk Express, but you'll receive a commemorative Straight Talk Express tick et, so be sure to make a contribution before midnight on March 31st.

First Post-Primary Election Ad

Today, the campaign released its first television ad since John McCain became the Republican Party's presumptive nominee. The ad, entitled "624787," poses important questions to the American people about what values they want in their next president, and highlights John McCain's experience, character and optimistic vision for our future. "624787" will run statewide in the important battleground state of New Mexico.

To watch the ad, click here. Be sure to tell your friends and family to visit www.JohnMcCain.com/Service to watch the ad as well.

Major Foreign Policy Address

John McCain spoke to the World Affairs Council in Los Angeles, California this week about his foreign policy positions and how he would lead as president. He articulated his vision which centers on building an enduring peace based on freedom that would secure our interests and those of our allies, and would make the world safer and freer. He made clear that he is an idealist with a deep understanding of the world's realities.

He also laid out his vision of collaborative relations with our allies in Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa that will strengthen our alliances and our security. Such a course would allow us to better address diverse global challenges such as climate change, treatment of terrorist detainees, while enhancing the use of "smart power" to counter radical Islamic extremism. Click here to read the entire speech.

The Housing Crisis

John McCain addressed the Orange County Hispanic Small Business Roundtable with some "straight talk" about the housing crisis and the economic situation facing our country. He discussed his proposed principles for addressing the housing crisis in the short-term as well as in the long-term to assure it never happens again.

He gave a clear explanation of the challenges facing America's economy and a lucid explanation of how we got here. He will not play election year politics with the housing crisis; he will evaluate everything in terms of whether it might be harmful or helpful to our effort to deal with the crisis we face now and its implications for long term growth. He made clear that it is not the duty of government to bail out and reward those who act irresponsibly. He called for several specific steps to strengthen the foundations of the millions of businesses small and large that provide jobs for American workers. These steps would also strengthen the U.S. dollar and help to control the rising cost of living that hurts our families. To read his full speech, click here.

Latest News

Below are some of the top news articles from this week. For more news articles and press releases, go to www.JohnMcCain.com.

one answer

Dear matthew,

51 seats are not enough.  Contribute today. Senate Republicans are on a record pace for filibusters and obstruction. They only have one answer to all the changes we need in America: No. They say no to curbing global warming, no to fixing our economy, and no to ending the war in Iraq. And they are not going to change.

The only way to stop the obstructionism and deliver progress is to build a sustainable, overwhelming Senate majority. That means more than the fifty-one seats we have today. That's why the DSCC is aggressively on the offensive in red states and blue states and everywhere in between.

But victory is going to take all the right preparations now, especially when the spotlight is shining far away from the Senate races. The single best way you can achieve results in November's elections is by making a contribution to the DSCC - they know how to win.

The DSCC needs $1,103,843 before the critical March 31 end-of-quarter fundraising deadline - just 3 days away! Give now and a group of Democratic Senators will match your contribution 2-to-1.

Click here to make an immediate, secure contribution of $50, $75, or more. Give before March 31 and your contribution will be instantly tripled.

I've seen first hand what happens when Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell controls a Republican caucus that would rather rubber stamp the Bush Administration than make real progress on the most important challenges facing our country.

More than five years after the Iraq war began, Senate Republicans continue to block any responsible proposals to end this tragic war and bring our brave men and women home. Democrats have proposed plans again and again to change course in Iraq and each time, Republicans have blocked our efforts.

We also have a President who refuses to tackle the global warming crisis or reduce our dependence on foreign oil and a Republican Minority that all too often just follows his lead. Time and again, when Senate Democrats act to clean up the environment, the Republicans stand in our way. Like so many Americans, I was outraged when Republicans blocked our efforts to increase investments in renewable and alternative energy.

The only way to pass our agenda is to elect more Democratic Senators. The DSCC knows exactly how to win these races. They proved it in 2006, and have built a terrific foundation so they can do it again in 2008.

Click here to make an immediate, secure contribution of $50, $75, or more. An overwhelming Senate majority is within our reach, but we still have plenty of work to do.

Right now - this moment - we stand at the brink of an amazing opportunity. This time next year, we could have a Democrat in the White House and an overwhelming Democratic majority in both houses of Congress.

But it won't happen if we don't do everything necessary for victory between now and then.

Please help the DSCC meet their goal at this critical end-of-quarter deadline. The media and all the right-wing operatives will be looking at our fundraising numbers to see if we have what it takes to fight for every seat. If we are going to win, we must do everything we can - starting today.

I hope we can count on your support.

Sincerely,


Barbara Boxer

now more than ever

Dear matt,

Our nominee can't build an organization to take on John McCain yet, but we canJohn McCain is raising money and campaigning across the country -- he's looking at the White House.

Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are also raising money and campaigning across the country -- but they're still looking at the nomination.

Hillary and Barack can't build an organization to take on John McCain directly yet, but we can. And we have to -- it's our responsibility as Democrats to make sure we're prepared.

I need you to make a contribution now so we can make sure John McCain doesn't get a free ride -- Americans everywhere need to know the truth, and we're going to make sure they get it.

http://www.democrats.org/NoFreeRides

Over the past three years, you've invested heavily in our 50-State Strategy. We put resources in all 50 states, committing to make sure each state has the resources and infrastructure to compete at every level.

We saw the results from this strategy in 2005, 2006, and 2007. And, with your help, it will help us take back the White House in 2008.

Why? The Republican Party is in trouble. Just read what the Web site Politico reported...

At a time when the GOP presidential nominee will need more assistance than ever, a number of state Republican parties are struggling through troubled times, suffering from internal strife, poor fundraising, onerous debt, scandal or voting trends that are conspiring to relegate the local branches of the party to near-irrelevance.

In some of the largest, smallest, reddest and bluest states in the nation, many state Republican organizations are still reeling in the aftermath of the devastating 2006 election cycle, raising questions about how much grassroots help the state parties will be able to deliver to presumptive GOP nominee John McCain.

We've worn them down, but we can't be complacent -- we've seen what they will do to win. We can't let up -- every day that goes by where we don't answer John McCain's attacks means another opportunity missed, and it erases the work we've done so far.

Make a donation today and support our efforts to help elect Hillary or Barack. We're fighting John McCain so he doesn't get ahead.

http://www.democrats.org/NoFreeRides

We can't allow John McCain to crisscross the country, fooling the American people with his "more of the same" agenda.

Your donation today helps us take him head-on everywhere.

Thank you,

Howard Dean

meet barack for dinner

Matthew --

If you're wondering what it might be like to join Barack Obama and three fellow supporters for a casual dinner, you should watch this video.

From the very beginning of this campaign, Barack has rejected contributions from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs. Instead, he has relied on grassroots donors like you to support this campaign, and this is not the first time he's invited you to join him for an intimate dinner for five.

Get a glimpse of a previous dinner with Barack, and make a donation before 11:59 p.m. EDT on March 31st. You could join Barack and three other guests for an evening of good food and good conversation:

Video: Dinner with Barack

https://donate.barackobama.com/dinner

One of the folks in that video is Michael Griffith, a miner from Fernley, Nevada -- he was one of Barack's guests at a dinner last year.

We gave him a call this week and asked him to talk about the experience so that we could share it with you. Here's what he had to say about it:

"It was an awesome experience -- Barack spent hours talking to us, and at the dinner table he was just like any other guy. It really felt like somebody invited friends over for dinner and good conversation.

My dad is a paralyzed vet, and his health care costs are huge, so I talked to the Senator about how he planned to provide for our veterans. He gave a thoughtful, detailed answer, and I could tell that taking care of our veterans was a big concern to him.

But we didn't just talk about politics. He talked about his children, and his wife, and how much he misses his family when he's on the road. And those of us with children shared stories about our families, too. He was a funny guy, and there was a good amount of joking around. All in all, it was a great conversation.

Ever since the dinner, I've remained active in the campaign. I was the precinct captain for my neighborhood here in Fernley, Nevada, and we won our caucus. I also went to the county convention, and we won there too.

I'm grateful to have been a part of this, because I know that beyond winning an election, we're also changing the way politics works in this country."

People like Michael are transforming politics in this country -- not just by changing the way campaigns are funded, but by getting involved on a grassroots level and working for change in their communities.

While Senator Clinton and Senator McCain have accepted millions from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs, this campaign has relied on more than a million individual donors giving only what they can afford. Just last month, more than 90% of the donations to Obama for America were for $100 or less.

If you make a donation in any amount between now and 11:59 pm EDT on Monday, March 31st, you could join Barack and three other supporters for dinner and a conversation about the issues that matter most to you.

Make a donation and share your story, and you could join Barack for an intimate dinner for five:

https://donate.barackobama.com/dinner

Thank you for your support,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Donate

my friend tom udall

Dear matthew,

I've known Tom Udall for more than 25 years. But more than just being my good friend, he has shown himself time and again to be a voice for reason and solid Democratic values.

In fact, he was one of the very few Members of Congress to have the courage to vote against the War in Iraq, even when George W. Bush was stampeding the entire country into an invasion that we now know was completely unjustified and ultimately deeply damaging to America. You can hear Tom talk very eloquently about his plan to end the war by clicking here.

You, I and all of America need his wisdom now in the U.S. Senate--particularly when we've seen how 49 Republicans can block the entire progress of the country through political maneuvering and threats of filibuster.

Today I'm asking you to join all of us who support Tom by becoming part of his New Mexico Progressive Action Network. All New Mexicans--and all Americans--must be united in our resolve to take back our country after eight years of the Bush-Cheney Administration.

Without Tom in the Senate, along with a veto-proof Democratic majority, we cannot begin to undo the terrible damage George W. Bush, Dick Cheney, and the Republicans have done to our economy, our environment and our future.

Millions of Americans now face home foreclosure while trillions of dollars in personal wealth have been wiped out because of Republican aversion to financial regulation.

37 million Americans face every day without health insurance because of Republican devotion to insurance company profits.

And America is hobbled by its dependence on foreign oil while the Republicans have blocked a meaningful renewable energy policy for the future.

Tom Udall is exactly what New Mexico and America needs right now. And with your help, he can represent us all in the U.S. Senate.

I know that right now the media and many voters are focused on the presidential election. And there is no question that it is critically important. But it is every bit as important that we elect as many Democrats to the Senate as possible.

A Democratic president will need a Senate that will fully support the change America needs now. And if, despite our best efforts, the Republicans hold onto the White House, it will be like a third term for George W. Bush and Dick Cheney unless we have a veto-proof majority in the Senate.

Even though my own presidential bid is over, I remain keenly engaged in this election at every level of government. We have an opportunity to take our country back now that we simply must not miss.

My fondest hope for you, matthew, and every other activist is that you remain engaged in this election as well. And that you support my friend Tom Udall's campaign for the U.S. Senate.

Thank you for being the kind of American who is willing to stand up for what you believe.

All the best,

Bill

help these vets build a stronger majority

Dear matthew,

There's nothing our johnkerry.com community has done these last four years that I'm more proud of than our work to elect veterans - "Fighting Democrats" - to Congress.

In races the cynics said we couldn't win, you gave early and often to elect some special candidates who shook up Washington and reminded Karl Rove and his Republican allies that patriotism doesn't have a political label, and the flag of the United States doesn't belong to a Party, it belongs to the American people.

And these vets have reminded the political class what patriotism really is: just a couple weeks ago, for instance, the House of Representatives stood up to George Bush on his illegal wiretapping scheme and refused to budge in the face of fear-mongering attacks from the right.

And some of the veterans you helped elect (people like Patrick Murphy and Tim Walz) were right in the middle of it, reminding America that there's a way to safeguard our security without shedding our values.

But we're not done yet. We need more Democrats in Congress to finally achieve a true working majority, and we need more Democratic veterans to help chart a new national security course and help us end the disastrous Bush/McCain Iraq policy.

So please click here and do what you can to help some great Democrats - and veterans of our armed services - win in November: http://www.actblue.com/page/strongermajority

We have some great new candidates running to take over Republican seats:


In New York, Tom Reynolds just retired, spooked by my friend and young Iraq war veteran Jon Powers. Capt. Powers saw the devastation of the Iraq War up close and personal when he served in Baghdad and decided to do something about it. As soon as he got back home, he started a charitable organization to help Iraqi children. Jon and I have been friends for three years now; I believe that if we seize this moment and send him to Congress he will be a real leader for our Party and country for decades to come.


And in California, we have the Deputy Commander of all Joint Special Forces Operations in Iraq running to replace arch-conservative Duncan Hunter. Mike Lumpkin has served 8 operational tours as a Navy SEAL, so he knows the realities of 21st century conflicts intimately. He knows we need to change course in the Middle East and knows a strong nation depends on good jobs and an economy that works for working people.

We also have two incumbents you all helped elect in 2006 we need to help. They've been targeted by Republicans for their courage in standing up for us, and we need to have their backs:

Patrick Murphy was the first Iraq war veteran elected to Congress, and he's been a great ally in the drive to keep our promises to those who wear the uniform of our country. He's worked tirelessly to end the Bush policy in Iraq. Patrick has been one of the best fresh young Democrats in Congress; and that's exactly why he earned a place on the list of top GOP targets this fall.

Minnesota's Tim Walz, who started his service when he was 17 on the first day he was eligible to join the National Guard, stood with Patrick and other Democrats a couple of weeks ago and refused to let the White House scare the Congress about illegal wiretapping and domestic spying. Tim stood up for the Constitution and stared down the fear-mongering ads the rightwing threw at him. But by doing so, he made himself a target for the right, and we need to stand up for gutsy public servants like Tim when they stand up for us.

So please do what you can to help these great Democrats hold and expand our Democratic majority in the fall:

http://www.actblue.com/page/strongermajority

I firmly believe we'll have a new Democratic President next year, and that President will need a strong Democratic Congress to deliver the kind of change our country needs. In the last election, we fought off the worst of the Republican policies, and now it's time to get our country moving forward.


Thanks so much for your help,
John Kerry

Thursday, March 27, 2008

please join me!




Dear john,

Contribute today and you could see Hillary and Elton
When I heard that Elton John was throwing a concert in New York for my mom's campaign, I knew it was going to be a night I didn't want to miss.

Want to join me there?

My mom's campaign is bringing two supporters and their guests to New York on April 9 for both Elton John's one-night-only concert and the party after the concert. It's going to be a great night and a great time.

It's such an important time to support my mom's campaign. There are big contests coming up, starting with Pennsylvania, and I know she can win with your support. She's working so hard out on the campaign trail, and I know that your support makes a real difference to her and this campaign.

Enter now and you might join me, my mom, and Elton John for his one-night-only concert in New York on April 9. Make a contribution today.

I talk to a lot of people who are excited to see my mom win and be the president we all need -- and who are working hard to help make that happen. It means so much to me to know that there are so many people like you who believe in my mom and are working to help her win. I know that she'll be such a great president and she will win, but not without all our help. And what better time to help than right now?

Please contribute today. Enter and you might be joining me, my mom, and Elton John for a concert in New York!

I'm so grateful for everything you're doing to help my mom win!

Thank you!
Chelsea

mccain bus tour

As our campaign works to build a national grassroots effort to elect John McCain in November, we are counting on the support from each and every one of you as we face either Senator Clinton or Senator Obama in the general election.

1We've come up with a special offer for our most dedicated supporters as a token of appreciation. We're offering another opportunity to join Senator McCain aboard the Straight Talk Express for a day on the campaign trail during his upcoming "Service to America" bus tour. You and a friend can join Senator McCain in his home state of Arizona for the day, riding the bus and attending events culminating in a speech at the Grand Canyon.

If you can make a donation of any amount between today and March 31st, you will be entered for the chance to win. Please follow this link to make your donation right away. If you're able to give $50 or more, we'll send you an exclusive, commemorative Straight Talk Express Ticket.

Our campaign is working to build the financial resources necessary to take on the Democrats in November, and we're approaching a crucial deadline on March 31st. On that day, our campaign will report the amount of money we have raised during the first three months of 2008. The liberals and the media will use the amount we report as a sign of the strength of our campaign. That's why it is so important for you to make a donation of $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000 or $2,300 today.

We fully expect our Democratic challenger to be better funded as we head into the summer and fall months. We must work to close the fundraising gap now so we have the resources necessary to bring John McCain's goals, record and accomplishments to the American people.

Your financial support is more critical to our campaign than ever before. Please follow this link to make your donation today. And remember, as a special way of thanking our most generous supporters, if you make a donation before March 31st, you will be entered to win a trip on the Straight Talk Express with John McCain! If you're able to give $50 or more, we'll send you a commemorative Straight Talk Expr ess ticket. Thank you for your generous support.

Sincerely,

Rick Davis

Rick Davis
Campaign Manager

P.S. I can speak from first-hand experience that nothing is more exciting than seeing John McCain in action on the campaign trail aboard the Straight Talk Express. He is truly a man with a bold vision for our nation and is the only candidate in this race who is ready to serve as commander in chief on day one in the White House. Please enter the contest to join us for a day on the Straight Talk Express by making an immediate donation more before March 31st. If you can give $50 or more today, remember, we'll send you a very special Straight Talk Express ticket. Thank you.

clinton donors threaten party

Dear MoveOn member,

This is pretty outrageous: a group of Clinton-supporting big Democratic donors are threatening to stop supporting Democrats in Congress because Nancy Pelosi said that the people, not the superdelegates, should decide the Presidential nomination.1

It's the worst kind of insider politics—billionaires bullying our elected leaders into ignoring the will of the voters.

But when we all pool our resources, together we're stronger than the fat cats. So let's tell Nancy Pelosi that if she keeps standing up for regular Americans, thousands of us will have her back. And we can more than match whatever the CEOs and billionaires refuse to contribute. Clicking here will add your name to our statement:

http://pol.moveon.org/democracy/o.pl?id=12391-4820096-ZidjKo&t=273

The statement reads: "The Democratic nomination should be decided by the voters—not by superdelegates or party high-rollers. We've given money—and time—to progressive candidates and causes, and we'll support Speaker Pelosi and others who stand up for Democracy in the Democratic Party."

We're launching it today with our friends at the blog OpenLeft.com. Our goal is to deliver tens of thousands of signatures to Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders later this week.

A few weeks ago, Speaker Pelosi told ABC News, "If the votes of the superdelegates overturn what happened in the elections, it would be harmful to the Democratic Party."2

She's right, but Clinton's top fundraisers want her to back off. According to the New York Times, their letter "carries an ominous tone, which stops just short of delivering a threat. The donors remind Ms. Pelosi that they are 'strong supporters' of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee."3 Their language was careful, but their implied threat was universally understood. (Roll Call carried this headline: "Clinton donors threaten Pelosi and DCCC."4)

They're the old guard, and this is how the Democratic Party used to function—the big donors called the shots. But the small donor revolution has changed that. The 20 people who signed this letter have given Democrats an average of $2.4 million per year over the last 10 years.5 Small donations now dwarf that: In February alone, Obama and Clinton raised $47 million in small donations.6

Still, old habits die hard. We need to send a strong signal that we, the small donors, will back Democratic leaders who have the courage to stand up and do the right thing. Please sign our statement today.

http://pol.moveon.org/democracy/o.pl?id=12391-4820096-ZidjKo&t=274

Thanks for all you do,

–Noah, Justin, Ilyse, Wes, and the MoveOn.org Political Action Team
Thursday, March 27th, 2008
Sources:

1. "Clinton Donors Warn on Superdelegate Fight," New York Times, March 27, 2008.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/27/us/politics/27dems.html

2. Ibid.

3. "Clinton donors ask Pelosi to Back Off," New York Times Caucus Blog, March 26, 2008.
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=3534&id=12391-4820096-ZidjKo&t=276

4. "Clinton Donors Threaten Pelosi and DCCC," Roll Call, March 26, 2008.
http://www.rollcall.com/issues/1_1/breakingnews/22683-1.html

5. "Pelosi's hecklers gave $24 million," Politico, March 27, 2008.
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=3535&id=12391-4820096-ZidjKo&t=278

6. "February Fundraising Frenzy for Presidential Candidates," Campaign Finance Institute, March 21, 2008.
http://www.cfinst.org/pr/prRelease.aspx?ReleaseID=187


Barack in Indiana

Dear Matthew,

Help register more voices in Indiana

Thanks to supporters like you, Barack has won twice as many states, more delegates, and more votes than Senator Clinton.

Now you can help build on that momentum in nearby Indiana.

Volunteers are registering voters across the state.

This Saturday, March 29th at 12:00 p.m. local time, Obama for America is organizing voter registration canvasses. Come to Indiana, join our campaign staff and fellow supporters, and help build our movement for change.

Sign up to help register voters in the Hoosier State:

http://in.barackobama.com/INcanvass

As we enter the final stages of this election, it's important to show how strong our movement is across the Midwest, and you can help by registering voters in Indiana.

Our campaign has always relied on grassroots supporters to build our movement and spread the word about Barack Obama.

You can help keep the momentum going by joining your fellow supporters in Indiana this Saturday:

http://in.barackobama.com/INcanvass

Hope you can make it!

Mitch

Mitch Stewart
Indiana State Director

Obama for America

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

re: dinner with barack

Matthew --

Refusing money from PACs and Washington lobbyists makes this campaign different in one very important respect.

We are not beholden to anyone but you.

We've rejected the traditional Washington fundraising strategy -- including countless dinners hosted by lobbyists -- and put our trust in millions of Americans owning a piece of this campaign.

Senator Clinton and Senator McCain have a different approach.

Both have accepted millions from lobbyists and special interests, and both have relied on high dollar donors for the majority of their funding.

This campaign is different, and I'm looking forward to supporters like you joining me for a different kind of fundraising dinner.

If you make a donation in any amount between now and 11:59 pm EDT on Monday, March 31st, you could join me and three other supporters for an intimate dinner for five:

https://donate.barackobama.com/dinner

On Monday, at 11:44 am, Bonnie Lochetta of Rushville, Indiana made her first donation of $25.

I'm pleased to announce that Bonnie will be one of my dinner guests. Here's what she told us about herself:

"I come from an incredibly Republican county in a little tiny town.

I've always been the rebel in my family. I had a fantastic government teacher in high school who really opened my eyes to a lot of things. I haven't always voted Democratic, but I wanted to vote for someone who spoke to me personally.

Now my kids are doing well in school, but I'm praying for scholarships. I have no savings, and I don't know how I'm going to put them through college.

I have never contributed to a political candidate before, but I have started an organizing group in my very Republican county. My children are very active in their support, and I will do all I can to show my neighbors that together, YES WE CAN."

I'm looking forward to having dinner with Bonnie, but there are still three seats left at the table. Will you be in one of them?

If you make a donation by 11:59 pm EDT on Monday, March 31st, you could join us:

https://donate.barackobama.com/dinner

We'll pay for your trip and the meal -- all you need to bring is your story and your ideas about how to make this a better country for all Americans.

Small donations from ordinary Americans have set our campaign apart and allowed us to reject the influence of Washington lobbyists and special interest groups. Not only is your support the key to our success, it's essential to reclaiming a government that is of the people, by the people, and for the people.

I hope you will make a donation now to participate in this opportunity. Continue to support this campaign and strengthen your role in our movement:

https://donate.barackobama.com/dinner

Together we can put an end to pay-for-influence politics.

We can turn the page in Washington, and it all begins with you.

Thank you for your support,

Barack

Gen. Wesley Clark

Dear matthew,

51 seats are not enough.  Contrubite today It's been five years since the disastrous Iraq War began.

And the Bush administration remains every bit as out of touch as they were when George Bush ridiculously proclaimed "Mission Accomplished" in 2003.

Last week, Dick Cheney went to Iraq and remarked that the war was a "successful endeavor" that has been "well worth the effort."

This Alice in Wonderland worldview is the hallmark of the Bush presidency and the defining trait of the congressional Republicans who have been right at his side for seven years, aiding and abetting his disastrous decisions.

That's why you need to help the DSCC expand Democrats' narrow 51-seat majority in the Senate.

With the election only months away and the crucial first quarter fundraising deadline upon us, the only way to make sure that Democrats have the resources necessary to make this year's plan a success is to give right now.

Click here to make a donation of $50, $75 or more to help expand the Democratic Senate majority in 2008. The March 31 deadline is so important that if you give today, your contribution will be matched 2-to-1 by a group of Democratic senators, effectively tripling your contribution.

For all you could say about the disastrous reign of Republicans, I think the defining feature of their rule has been their complete detachment from reality.

They claim to be spreading freedom around the world, when in fact they've created perhaps the fiercest and most alarming anti-American backlash in history.

They say we're taking the offensive against terrorists when in fact, al Qaeda is as dangerous as it's been at anytime since 2001.

And this disturbing trend can be seen in every issue of importance to the American people.

They say we're making progress on health care, while every year more Americans go without coverage.

They say they've got a plan for energy independence, and yet our dependence on foreign oil - and its price - feels like it increases every day.

George Bush denies we're in a recession, while business luminaries like Warren Buffet say, "by any commonsense definition, we're in a recession."

George Bush has given us nothing but doublespeak for seven years and by supporting his disastrous agenda, Senate Republicans are equally responsible for this mess we're in.

The DSCC is doing everything they can to make sure they no longer damage our nation from those positions of leadership. As the DSCC stares down this decisive fundraising deadline, we have got to get behind their efforts. Remember, if you give now, a group of Democratic senators will match you 2-to-1, effectively tripling your contribution.

Click here to make a donation of $50, $75 or more to help expand the Democratic Senate majority in 2008.

I have no question that the United States will regain its stature in the world and its strength at home. But I am equally certain that Democratic leadership is necessary to make it happen.

These changes won't come to pass on their own.

We need you.

Sincerely,


Gen. Wesley Clark


Tuesday, March 25, 2008

hillary and elton

Dear john,

Contribute today and you could see Hillary and Elton
In the interest of harmony -- and melody -- I promise you there won't be any duets.

I'm really looking forward to the solo concert my friend Elton John is throwing in New York to help our campaign -- and I would very much like the chance to meet you there.

We're sending two supporters, along with their guests, to New York with VIP tickets for this very special, one-night-only concert on April 9, and it could be you. We will have a chance to talk just you and I -- and you will get to meet Elton John at the party we're throwing afterwards. It's going to be a great night.

Your support is so important to my campaign right now. As we ramp up our campaign in Pennsylvania, I need your help to make sure we have the resources we need to win. If you enter, you and I might see each other in New York on April 9. Make a contribution today.

Enter now for a chance to join me at Elton's solo concert in New York on April 9.

Elton's concert comes at such an exciting moment in our campaign. I'm seeing incredible enthusiasm as I travel across Pennsylvania and other states with upcoming contests.

We've got momentum at our backs, but a big task ahead of us. The Obama campaign is in the middle of a $3 million ad blitz in Pennsylvania, and we've got to do everything we can to overcome their fundraising advantage. Then we face competitive contests in Indiana, North Carolina, West Virginia, Kentucky, Oregon, and Puerto Rico -- and we are already getting started in those states.

There's no better time to support our campaign, and no better way to do it than to make a contribution. And if you enter today, you may join me and Elton for a one-of-a-kind concert.

Enter now for a chance to join me at Elton's solo concert in New York on April 9.

Thank you so much for all your support. I hope you know how much you mean to me and my campaign.

Sincerely,

Hillary
Hillary Rodham Clinton

ride with me on the straight talk express

My Friends,

Next week, I will embark on a "Service to America" tour visiting numerous locations that have played a significant role in shaping who I am today; places where I have had the honor of serving our nation. This tour will take me through Mississippi, Virginia, Florida and my home state of Arizona. I look forward to visiting sites that have left an imprint on my life aboard my campaign bus, the Straight Talk Express.

My campaign has come up with an opportunity for a supporter to join me on the Straight Talk Express for a day of conversation and campaigning. As a token of my appreciation for your financial support, you will be entered to win this seat aboard the Straight Talk Express if you make a contribution before midnight on March 31st. I hope you'll consider joining me by making a donation today. If you can give $50 or more, not only will you be entered to win a ride on the Straight Talk Express, but you'll receive a commemorative Straight Talk Express ticket.

March 31, 2008 marks an important deadline for our campaign. We will file a report with the FEC outlining the amount of money we have raised during the past three months. I'm reaching out to you to ask for your support by following this link to make a donation of $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000 - anything you can contribute up to the legal limit of $2,300.

I have said many times before that this campaign will be the most expensive campaign in our history, and I have no doubt that both Senators Clinton and Obama will continue to report historic, record-breaking fundraising numbers. With your support today, my campaign will have the resources necessary to compete with either Senator Clinton or Obama in what will be a great contest come November.

I'm looking forward to traveling on the Straight Talk Express again next week, visiting directly with voters, hearing their concerns, offering my vision for the future and highlighting those among us who are serving our country and communities, dedicating themselves to causes greater than their own self interest. Your support makes this possible, and I am grateful for any assistance you are able to give.

Sincerely,

2

John McCain

P.S. You have an opportunity to join me aboard the Straight Talk Express by making a generous contribution before March 31st. With your donation of $50 or more, we will send you an exclusive, commemorative Straight Talk Express ticket as a symbol of your commitment to our campaign. Thank you.

human rights campaign

Dear matt,

Eric Breidenbaugh knew something was wrong.

His partner and his partner's parents were all missing – hours overdue from a family flight aboard a small private plane.

Eric called his local airport, near Pinellas Park, Florida, to see if they had any information. They did, but they wouldn't give it to him. They said he was "not an actual family member," so they couldn't tell him whether his partner was alive or dead.

He searched the TV news, where he soon saw footage of the plane he himself had ridden in many times. That was how he found out that his life partner of six years, Joseph Bellamy, had been killed with his parents in a plane crash. Watch Eric speak about the experience »

It's simply wrong that GLBT Americans should be treated like second-class citizens, denied the right to care for their loved ones. Yet even in Eric's' own state of Florida, anti-GLBT groups won't rest. They're trying to write a ban on marriage equality into the constitution, and get right-wing voters to the polls while they're at it.

We need to strengthen our field program so we can fight this battle and others, including electing fair-minded candidates and passing key legislation. Your activism and your commitment are critical, as is the financial support so instrumental to our efforts.

The coming weeks are critical. In Florida, the referendum to enshrine discrimination against GLBT couples in the constitution has officially qualified for the November ballot, and opponents are already gearing up and spending cash. A dirty campaign is likely. And in California, right-wing groups are collecting signatures for a similar measure, with a deadline of mid-April.

If either measure passes, our community could be unable to pass laws preventing heartbreaking stories like Eric Breidenbaugh's. Basic information or access to your partner denied in an emergency. Right-wing extremists that much closer to making inequality permanent nationwide.

So HRC is already mobilizing NOW with help from supporters like you, including:

  • Sending in full-time field staff to recruit and train hundreds of volunteers.
  • Donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to state groups in Florida and California.
  • Helping staff a "Decline to Sign" campaign in California that is already gumming up right-wing signature gathering efforts.
  • Mobilizing our 700,000 supporters to fight anti-GLBT amendments nationally.
  • Electing fair-minded candidates who will help oppose initiatives like this.

Think for a moment about the pain and suffering experienced by countless people like Eric Breidenbaugh every single day. Then, resolve to make those injustices a thing of the past by renewing your commitment to this ongoing struggle.

Warmly,
Joe Solmonese
Joe Solmonese
President

P.S. If you have already joined as a member for 2008 – please accept our sincere thanks and disregard this request.