Politics Watch

vacation

2008-05-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

Yeah, this post is way late and yeah, no one probably even reads this, but as I am on summer vacation and I got overloaded (way overloaded in the course of one measly week) with political emails, so I'm going to just go for a fresh start in the GE, probably when I get back to school or when I get a stable schedule...

So while I'm away here, I recommend visiting the blog I co-write, The Punditburo.

-Matt

support fair pay

2008-04-24T09:51:00.001-07:00

Dear Friend,

Senate Republicans have done it again.

Yesterday, they blocked a vote on the Fair Pay Restoration Act, an important bill that would protect millions of Americans from pay discrimination based on race, national origin, gender, religion, age, or disability.

This legislation corrects last May's Supreme Court ruling in the Lilly Ledbetter case, which requires victims of pay discrimination to file suit within 180 days of the initial pay-setting decision, or else they cannot be awarded compensation. This requirement is unfair, since workers often do not know how their pay compares to that of their colleagues.

Workers shouldn't have to be mind-readers to protect themselves from discrimination. Those who suffer from pay discrimination shouldn't run out of time to file a claim for back pay simply because the employer initially managed to hide its illegal behavior.

We fell just three votes short yesterday of overcoming the Republicans' filibuster and reforming this unfair system. Help us get past Republicans' obstructionism and hold employers accountable for pay discrimination -- sign the petition supporting the Fair Pay Restoration Act:

http://www.democraticmajority.com/fairpay

This legislation is named for Lilly Ledbetter, a former supervisor at a Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company plant in Gadsden, Alabama. For nearly two decades Ms. Ledbetter worked hard, while putting up with taunting and teasing from her male co-workers.

But during that time Goodyear was using discriminatory evaluations to pay her less than her male colleagues doing the same work. When Ms. Ledbetter finally discovered the discrimination and filed suit, she was awarded full back pay by a jury.

The Supreme Court, however -- in a 5-4 ruling -- reversed the decision and imposed the unfair deadline. This ruling overturned decades of precedent, and it upset our nation's shared sense of what is fair and right.

For years, Lilly Ledbetter had no idea her pay was less than that of her male colleagues because Goodyear kept its salary information confidential. The discrimination continued with every paycheck she received.

Now Republicans are holding up legislation that would protect workers like Lilly Ledbetter by allowing them to file suit up to 180 days after their most recent discriminatory paycheck -- a change that will hold employers accountable for their discriminatory practices and restore fairness to the workplace for millions of Americans.

Please show your support for the Fair Pay Restoration Act:

http://www.democraticmajority.com/fairpay

The Fair Pay Restoration Act uses the language from the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1991, which corrected a similar problem of discrimination in seniority.

It upholds a long tradition of laws dedicated to ending unfair discrimination by employers.

But these laws will be meaningless unless workers can enforce their rights in courts. The Fair Pay Restoration Act will ensure that workers have remedy they deserve when their right to equal pay for equal work is violated by their employer.

Senate Republicans have shown where they stand on this issue -- but they're in the small minority. Women's organizations, civil rights groups, labor unions, disability advocates, religious groups, and businesses all support the Fair Pay Restoration Act.

Join all of us and show your support too:

http://www.democraticmajority.com/fairpay

Sincerely,

Senator Edward M. Kennedy

NRCC email

2008-04-23T19:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the NRCC e-Newsletter, a service provided to you by the
National Republican Congressional Committee. This newsletter will keep you informed of our efforts to take back the majority and return conservative leadership to the U.S. Congress.

NRCCBLOG

Obama's Coattails

By: Gary Andres

It wasn't supposed to play out this way. Obama's new politics and electrifying campaign style would energize Democrats and help the party's down ticket candidates?

Turns out Democrats may be too busy clinging to their guns and religion to get too excited about Obama's White House bid.

His comments and views about rural America's "bitterness" expose a major fault line with Democrats' congressional candidates --a wedge with the potential nominee in key swing legislative districts. It could cause many down ticket candidates to distance themselves from a presidential candidate they believe out of step with the values and ideology of their congressional districts.

"It puts them on the defensive by forcing them to begin answering for the actions of their potential presidential nominee that we know will not be able to carry most of the districts we are targeting," Ken Spain, spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee said yesterday.

This Politico story, focusing on vulnerable Democrat Congressman Patrick Murphy, supports Spain's thesis. "Murphy has also been playing a pivotal role in rallying support for Obama, and he has been attending rallies and making appearances on cable news networks to tout Obama's candidacy. But while his endorsement gives him short-term exposure, some caution that a too-close association with Obama could backfire in a general election..."

Just when will superdelegates like Patrick Murphy denounce Obama's elitist comments about small town America?

NRCCRADAR

OH-15 (Pryce/Open)

Gongwer News Service, April 15, 2008: "Republican Steve Stivers filed a first-quarter federal campaign finance report Monday showing he raised $279,417 for his congressional election contest in roughly equal amounts from individuals and political action committees. Contributions from Feb. 14 through Jan. 31 brought his net fund-raising for the election cycle-to-date to $787,370. After expenses, Mr. Stivers showed cash on hand at the end of the reporting period of $599,689. Mr. Stivers, a state senator, faces Democrat Mary Jo Kilroy, a Franklin County Commissioner, in the Nov. 4 election to the U.S. House from the 15th Congressional District in central Ohio...Sen. Stivers issued a statement describing as 'remarkable' the financial and other support he had received. "I've received support from every corner of the district - from young families and students to our seniors and veterans - it's overwhelming and I'm honored for their trust and support,' he said." [more]

MN-02, MN-03 (Bachmann, Kline)

Associated Press, April 15, 2008: "Republican incumbent Michele Bachmann has a big lead in dollars over her Democratic challengers in Minnesota's 6th Congressional District. A federal campaign report says Bachmann had more than $1 million in the bank at the end of March. That's almost 10 times more than the amounts reported by the Democrats seeking to challenge her...In the 2nd District, Representative John Kline also had a cash advantage over his nearest Democratic rival. Kline had $510,000 in the bank, compared with $39,000 for Iraq war veteran Steve Sarvi." [more]

IL-06 (Roskam)

Associated Press, April 15, 2008: "Republican Congressman Peter Roskam has Democrat Jill Morgenthaler beat right now on the money front by about an 8-1 margin as they head into the general election ...Morgenthaler had only $127,000 as of the end of March, while Roskam had almost $1 million, the lion's share of the $1.3 million the freshman congressman has raised this election cycle. That's based on campaign finance reports that were due today with the Federal Election Commission and that cover the period through March." [more]

NRCCTV

Travis Childers: He's No Magician

Travis Childers, the Democratic candidate in Mississippi's First Congressional District Special Election on April 22nd claims he isn't a magician when it comes to solving the problems that plague the congressional district that he wants to represent. Well that's good since the voters aren't looking to elect a magician to Congress, they're looking for someone who can fight for their interests in Washington. [watch the NRCC video]

last night's debate

2008-04-23T19:11:00.001-07:00

Dear John,

Last night, Senator Obama and I had the chance to express some substantive differences on issues that affect people's lives in Kentucky every day: the war in Iraq, the mortgage crisis, Social Security, and rising gas prices.

I know when I stand up at a debate like last night, I'm speaking not just for myself, but for everyone who has supported me in this race. I know I wouldn't be here without you, and I can't tell you how proud I am to stand with you.

This race should be decided on the merits of our ideas -- not the size our campaign coffers. I've spent some time in Kentucky recently, and I know the people there agree.

The Kentucky primary is close to a month away, and this race is so close that a contribution you make today could be the difference between winning and losing.

If you missed the debate last night, click here to watch my closing statement and contribute today to help me win.

Thank for all you do and I hope to see you on the trail soon!

Sincerely,

Hillary Rodham Clinton

McCain strategy memo

2008-04-23T18:57:00.002-07:00

To: Interested Parties
From: Rick Davis
Date: April 23, 2008
Re: Pennsylvania Democratic Primary Results

The race for the Democratic Nomination will continue.

Hillary Clinton's victory in Pennsylvania last night has extended the primary to the next round of contests (Indiana and North Carolina on May 6) and has maintained the competitive nature of the race.

With her 10-point victory, we should expect her poll numbers and resources to increase in the coming days. Primary wins, especially in the 2008 election cycle, have had a direct impact on the national polling numbers for the candidates and when national polling numbers increase, so do campaign donations.

Since last night, the Clinton campaign reportedly raised $10 million dollars online - enough to make a significant dent in upcoming media buys in North Carolina and Indiana. Barack Obama continues to surpass fundraising expectations and will most likely continue to do so. We need help during this period of democratic turmoil so we can build our resources and be ready to fight when the race begins.

Pennsylvania exit polls tell an interesting story that has implications for November.

Even though Hillary Clinton won this primary, Barack Obama is seen as the front runner among Pennsylvania Democrats and is perceived to be the candidate most likely to win the Democratic Party's nomination.

Fifty-five percent of Pennsylvania voters say they believe Barack Obama will be the nominee in November. And, one-fifth of Clinton's Pennsylvania supporters believe he will be the nominee in November. So, the victory for Clinton is seen as a bump in the road for Obama, even by some of her true believers.

Exit polls reveal why this poses significant problems for Obama if he becomes the nominee. The most important problem: Clinton voters don't automatically become Obama voters after he becomes the nominee. In fact, Obama leaves large portions of Clinton's coalition on the table in November.

Obama only wins 72% of the Democratic vote in a general election match up among those surveyed last night. Clinton shows her broad coalitional strength and wins 81% in a general election match up against John McCain. A full quarter of the Democrats in Pennsylvania are not willing to cast their ballot for Obama against McCain (15% say they vote McCain and 10% say they stay home), however, Clinton loses only 17% of Democrats (10% for McCain and 7% would not vote). This gap of 8-points would be significant in a general election match up. President Bush lost Pennsylvania by 2-points in 2004, when 41% of the electorate were Democrats. That 8-point gap among Democrats is enough to swing the state the other way (8% of 41% is 2.8-points, turning Pennsylvania red). This dynamic is clearly visible in publicly released surveys; an average of April polls show McCain trailing Obama by an average of 3-points (3 surveys in April) and trailing Clinton by 8-points.

The cracks in Obama's Democratic coalition in Pennsylvania mirror what we saw in Ohio, and those cracks could have implications in November.

Hillary Clinton cleaned up with Union households - like she did in Ohio.
In Pennsylvania, Clinton won 59% of Union members (Obama 41%). Obama won these voters by significant margins in Wisconsin (+9), but has lost his hold on their vote in both Ohio (Clinton 55% - 43%) and now Pennsylvania.

Clinton did better than Obama with lower income voters.
Our targeting and analysis of the 2008 political landscape puts voters who are on the lower economic brackets at the heart of either party's winning coalition. Hillary won at every income level below $150,000, and Obama only won with the wealthiest Pennsylvania voters. Obama's media foibles contributed to his inability to connect to voters who are suffering the real impact of this challenging economic environment.

This is also apparent in the number of voters who feel Clinton is more in touch with their views. Fifty-six percent of Pennsylvania Democrats say Clinton cares about people like them - again a significant switch from earlier contests. Wisconsin exit polls shows Obama had a 12-point advantage on that measure. By the time Ohio held their primary, Clinton had switched the dynamic and led by 12-points.

Clinton won Catholic voters.
In Wisconsin, Clinton split the Catholic vote 50%-50% with Obama. Again, she changed the dynamic in Ohio and won Catholics by 27-points (63% - 36%). In Pennsylvania, she increased her margins and won by 38-points (69% - 31%). The strength of this coalition bolsters her argument that Obama would have had problems competing in Michigan and will not be able to carry key Midwestern states in November.

Clinton won Jewish voters.
In Pennsylvania, the first state where both candidates competed for a significant block of Jewish voters, Clinton won by 15-points (57% - 43%). Again, the data suggests Jewish voters, a key Democratic coalition, pose a potential problem for Obama.

Clinton increased her margins in suburban and rural areas - without losing ground in urban areas. Clinton won Pennsylvania suburbs by a 12-point margin and won rural areas by 22-points. And Clinton lost in urban areas by 14-points. This is similar to her Ohio performance. But, it shows an increase in her performance in urban areas from earlier contests (in Wisconsin she lost urban areas by 21-points). Clinton has figured out how to increase her margins among suburban and rural voters and cut into Obama's base of urban voters.

What does that mean for John McCain?

Ultimately most pundits contend that Hillary Clinton still has more than an uphill battle to become the nominee. So, what does this victory mean for John McCain?

While the Democratic nomination continues to unfold, our campaign is actively engaged in listening to voters' concerns and sharing John McCain's message with them. Senator McCain has an active schedule in the coming weeks. Last week, he gave a major economic address where he addressed short term concerns like enacting a summer gas tax holiday, he proposed a new "HOME Plan" to help those who are hurt by the housing crisis and he is proposing a student loan continuity plan to make sure America's college students aren't hurt from the credit crunch. In addition, Senator McCain has spent this week travelling to places many in our nation have forgotten and where our citizens have felt left behind but where hope, innovation and local solutions are helping to lift these communities up. And, next week, Senator McCain will visit various health care facilities and unveil his plans and solutions to help Americans improve access and affordability to good health care. In addition, the campaign is building our organization and resources for the campaign in the fall.

going rural...

2008-04-23T18:57:00.001-07:00

My Friends,

This week I embarked on a trip to areas of the United States seldom-visited and all too often forgotten by our nation's leaders. I am doing this because I want to learn from the people who live in these areas. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit Alabama. During my trip I spent time in the towns of Selma, Gee's Bend, Camden and Thomasville.

It was an honor to visit Selma, a place that held great significance in the Civil Rights movement. I was also fortunate to visit the Gee's Bend quilters, who gave me such a warm welcome - I thank them for their hospitality. I hope you will take the time today to follow this link to watch a video straight from the campaign trail.

My friends, I am traveling to these places because if I am to be President of the United States of America, I'm going to be the president of all the people. I will work for all people and I will listen to all people. By understanding the challenges - and they are enormous - that these Americans face today, I will be a far better president.

There must be no forgotten places in America. I have always believed in this country, in a good America, a great America. And I have always believed we can build a better America for all people. This week, I'm traveling to places where great Americans are still fighting for change to make us a better country. I am going to meet and learn from these patriots.

I am running for president as a different type of candidate and I ask that you join my campaign today.

Sincerely,

John McCain

P.S. My friends, I will continue to travel to places across our country that are too often forgotten to meet and learn from the Americans who live in these areas. I am doing this because if I am elected President of the United States, I want to be president of all people. Our campaign has put together a special video featuring highlights from yesterday's stops in Alabama. I invite you to follow this link to watch this special video and, if you are able to, make a generous donation to our campaign so that we may continue our good work. Thank you.

the rant

2008-04-23T18:55:00.002-07:00

Two quick notes from the campaign trail this week.

Colorado: Republican Hypocrisy

Last week we told you about how Colorado Republican Bob Schaffer accepted more than $13,000 in travel and accommodations from a front group for convicted felon and Tom DeLay confidant, Jack Abramoff.

Schaffer then turned around and defended the business practices of sweatshops run by Abramoff's lobbying clients, despite a mountain of evidence against the manufacturers.

To drive home the true scope of this hypocrisy, the DSCC has produced a great new video. We created this video to make sure that each and every Colorado voter knows the truth about Schaffer's shady ties to Jack Abramoff.

Click here to see the latest video about the Colorado Senate race.

Republican Bob Schaffer is tainted by the Jack Abramoff scandal, and he's not fit to serve the great people of Colorado.

The latest polling shows a neck and neck race between Schaffer and Democrat Mark Udall. Udall has earned rave reviews so far in this race for his record of courageous leadership on the war in Iraq and renewable energy issues. We'll be sure to keep you updated as this campaign heats up.

Alaska: Strong Democrat Enters the Race

Second, great news just yesterday from Alaska where Democrat Mark Begich is officially entering the race to make a strong challenger against embattled Republican incumbent Ted Stevens.

As mayor of Anchorage, Begich helped create nearly 10,000 new jobs and eliminated a $33 million city budget deficit. If elected senator, Begich has pledged to restore trust and transparency in our government and to expand the G.I. Bill to give veterans everything they need to earn a college degree.

Scandals have rocked the Republican Party in Alaska. Even Ted Stevens himself is under investigation by the FBI and is going to be extremely vulnerable this cycle. The latest polling already shows a dead heat, even before voters start paying attention and learning all about Stevens' sordid past.

help barack in KY

2008-04-23T18:55:00.001-07:00

Matthew --

Today, the eyes of the nation are on Pennsylvania, where voters are heading to the polls to make their voices heard in their Democratic primary. But Kentucky's primary is coming up in just a few weeks, and I wanted to let you know about a program our campaign is introducing called Kentucky Precinct Team Leaders.

We've seen record turnout in contests across the country -- we've won the most votes, the most states, and the most delegates, and it's thanks to supporters like you.

But this campaign is far from over, and we can't take anything for granted. We need to reach everyone we can in Kentucky on May 20th. And to do that, we need to get organized on a local level.

http://ky.barackobama.com/precinctleader

Grassroots organizers have a special place in my heart.

My dad was an avid Democrat and a Precinct Captain in Chicago. He was a blue collar city worker who put two kids through college despite being stricken with multiple sclerosis in the prime of his life.

But my dad got up every day, driven to create a better life for our family and our community. And one way he worked for change was by talking to his neighbors, knocking on their doors, and helping get them to the polls.

It's such an important job. I hope we can count on you to sign on and help out. The campaign will put you in touch with a staff organizer in your area who will help you get organized.

http://ky.barackobama.com/precinctleader

Thank you for everything you're doing,

Michelle

re: our ad

2008-04-23T18:52:00.002-07:00

Dear matt,

Our first ad of the presidential campaign hit TVs across the country today, thanks to people like you.

The response from Democrats has been strong and overwhelmingly positive -- many of you are thrilled that we're standing up and fighting John McCain on television while Senator Clinton and Senator Obama work to win the nomination.

The response from Republicans has also been strong, but overwhelmingly negative -- they're frustrated their candidate has such a terrible understanding of economics and that the American people are beginning to find out.

John McCain himself has seen the ad. When he was asked tough questions about his economic plan after seeing it, he became testy and dismissive.

But while the ad starts running on national television today, we're still organizing places like Kentucky, laying the groundwork that Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama will need to win in November. And you can help.

Make a contribution today to help us keep John McCain out of the White House -- we're running ads, organizing volunteers, and building the tools we'll need to win. But it costs money, and we can't afford to wait. Watch our first ad and make a contribution today:

http://www.democrats.org/support

Help us continue asking the tough questions of John McCain. We want to make sure Americans hear John McCain in his own words -- on the air and at their door.

Thanks for all you do.

Tom McMahon
Executive Director
Democratic National Committee

P.S.: A few of you had trouble with the link in Governor Dean's e-mail yesterday. We're sorry if you had any issues. To see our ad, click here.

crucial

2008-04-23T18:52:00.001-07:00

Dear Matthew,

The Pennsylvania primary is being held today, but the next 14 days could be the decisive period in this election.

The Indiana primary on May 6th is one of the biggest and most closely watched contests remaining, and the race is shaping up to be a dead heat.

Right now, local staff and volunteers are working hard to identify Obama supporters as Primary Day approaches -- but they need the help of supporters like you from all across the Midwest.

http://in.barackobama.com/INcanvass1

Everything we've accomplished has been made possible by a network of grassroots supporters across the country working to make change possible.

The primary in Indiana is our last, best chance to build on our success in the Midwest -- and a strong finish for Barack could make the difference in this election.

We can't get there without your help.

With the race so close, I hope we can count on you to canvass in Indiana this weekend:

http://in.barackobama.com/INcanvass1

Hope to see you soon,

Mitch

Mitch Stewart
Indiana State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- If you can't make it this weekend, start planning to come to Indiana in the final days before the May 6th primary.

Your help will be crucial during our Get Out The Vote push that begins Saturday, May 3rd.

http://in.barackobama.com/CometoIN

finally, something other than a lapel!

2008-04-23T16:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Fellow Republicans,

As the presidential campaign kicks into high gear, it's more important than ever to show your support for John McCain as the presumptive Republican nominee for president. One way you can stand out is by wearing official John McCain 2008 gear.

Our official campaign store, http://store.johnmccain.com, has hats, buttons, bumper stickers, yard signs, t-shirts and special state and coalition-specific gear. Please visit our store today!

As Republicans, we know that John McCain is the right man to lead our nation as we face tough challenges. Now is the time to stand with John McCain and show our support for him. As president, John McCain is the most prepared candidate to serve as our commander in chief and fight for our shared values in the White House. As his team of supporters, it is our job to ensure he wins in November.

Please visit http://store.johnmccain.com to buy your official McCain 2008 gear and encourage your friends, neighbors and colleagues to do the same.

Thank you,

Rick Davis
Campaign Manager

P.S. As we head into spring, the presidential campaign is heating up. It's more important than ever to show your support for John McCain by wearing official McCain 2008 gear. Please visit http://store.johnmccain.com today to purchase a bumper sticker, button, lapel pin, polo shirt or any of the coalition gear today. Thanks for your support!

our first ad

2008-04-23T16:55:00.000-07:00

Dear matt,

John McCain believes we're better off economically today than we were eight years ago.

The American people know that's not true -- they're feeling the effects of high gas prices, lost jobs, and a housing crisis. Voters continually rank the economy as their biggest concern.

So this week we're planning to release our first national television ad of the presidential race to show the American people just how wrong John McCain is on the economy. We're also strengthening our local organizing efforts to make sure the American people really know how little John McCain understands the economy.

We need $500,000 to help pay for ads like the one we plan to air this week, fund organizers in your state and build a national infrastructure to help Hillary or Barack win the White House.

Can you help us raise $500,000? If you can, then millions of Americans will get to see and hear the real John McCain in his own words -- and we'll be building for victory in November.

Click here to see our first ad of the presidential race:

http://www.democrats.org/support

John McCain is on the record as saying the economy is something he really doesn't understand as well as he should. It shows.

Unemployment is up. Gas and food prices are up. Inflation is on the rise. The housing market is in a slump. The pundits are saying we're in the worst economic mess in decades. But John McCain keeps defending his friend George Bush, saying everything is just fine.

Providing tax cuts for the wealthy, allowing oil and gas companies to make huge windfall profits and turning a blind eye to the problems in the home lending market -- these are John McCain's solutions. American families can't afford four more years of failed Bush economic policies.

Your support today allows us to get this spot on the air across the country. We want to do this right -- please take a moment now to watch the ad and then make a contribution:

http://www.democrats.org/support

John McCain and the Republican Party hope we'll forget about the mismanagement of the last eight years. They're working hard to distract Americans from getting to know the real John McCain, and the Republican spin machine is working overtime.

While John McCain is out trying to reintroduce himself to the American people, we want to make sure voters have all the facts -- and have the chance to know the real John McCain.

Your support to help us raise $500,000 means we can start distributing the ad on national television this week, while putting additional resources into our 50-state strategy.

We'll make sure Americans hear John McCain in his own words. And the more we raise, the more voters we can reach with this and other spots.

Thanks for your support,

Howard Dean

the greatest hoax

2008-04-23T16:54:00.000-07:00

Dear matthew,

Earth Day is this Sunday, and in that spirit, our mission is clear.

We need to oust Republican senators who believe that global warming is "the greatest hoax ever perpetrated on the American people." And we desperately need to change George Bush's "wait 10 years and then take action" attitude toward global climate change.

But the fact is that the entrenched money interests who stand to profit from the failed status quo have lined up against the Democrats and given over $2 million in campaign contributions to the Senate Republicans.

While our opponents look to industries like oil and gas to stock their campaign coffers, our Democratic challengers depend on people like you. Make a contribution right away, so the DSCC can level the playing field for our candidates across the country.

Click here to make an immediate, secure contribution of $50, $75, or more. Your support is the only way we can compete against Big Oil's millions.

Democrats are doing everything they can to fight global warming in the Senate. Just last month, I, along with Sens. Cardin and Clinton took action to oppose the Bush administration's attempts to dramatically cut funding for programs designed to curb acid rain.

This Earth Day, you can make a lasting, sustainable impact too - by helping the DSCC elect an overwhelming Democratic majority in the Senate. It's the only way our country can get serious about tackling global warming.

Remember, as long as Mitch McConnell and Roadblock Republicans control enough votes, they are bound and determined to stand up for the entrenched interests and stand in the way of progress. If you want to change the failed status quo, you have to change the Senate.

Your support today helps us give our candidates everything they need to go right after Republican incumbents across the country. An investment now will pay off with victory in November.

Click here to make an immediate, secure contribution of $50, $75, or more. Your support is the only way we can compete against Big Oil's millions.

It's bad enough that we're going to have to compete against Karl Rove and the Republican attack dogs this fall. But please don't let us face them with anything less than everything we need to fight back.

The DSCC's job is to level that playing field and we rely on your support to do it. Please, make an immediate contribution today.

Sincerely,

Chuck Schumer

gas tax holiday?

2008-04-23T16:53:00.001-07:00

My Friends,

This week, I laid out an economic plan aimed at providing immediate and long-term relief for all American families. One of the key components of this plan is a suspension of the federal gas tax on gasoline from Memorial Day to Labor Day of this year.

The effect of this "gas tax holiday" will be an immediate economic stimulus - taking a few dollars off the price of a tank of gas every time you fill up. And because the cost of gas affects the price of food, packaging and just about everything else, this immediate step will spread economic relief to every family in America.

My friends, this election will be shaped by the big issues we face as a nation, not the small ones. To effectively communicate our solutions to these issues, I will need a united base of support and financial resources to communicate my message to the American people. That's why I ask you to join my campaign by making a financial contribution by following this link right away.

I am running for president to tackle the most pressing challenges facing our nation today, and our economy is certainly one of our top challenges. The voters of our country will have a clear choice in November between my vision and policies for our country - rooted in our shared conservative principles - and the tax and spend policies of my Democratic opponents.

Whether it's the economy, the struggle against radical Islamic extremism or national security issues, I stand ready to offer bold solutions to our nation's challenges. The gas-tax holiday is just one example, and as I have always done, I will make my case to every American who will listen.

I will not confine myself to the comfort of speaking only to those who agree with me. I will make my case to all the people. I will listen to those who disagree. I will try to persuade them. I will debate. I will learn from them. And I will fight every moment of every day for what I believe is right for this country, and I will not yield.

Please join me today in the fight for what is right for this country by making a donation of $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000 - any amount up to the legal limit of $2,300. Your generosity is greatly appreciated, and I look forward to what will surely be a great contest in November.

Thank you,

John McCain

P.S. In November, Americans will have a clear choice between my policies for addressing the big issues and the policies of my opponents. I stand ready to offer bold new solutions to the challenges we face as a nation, and I ask that you join me today calling for a gas tax holiday to provide immediate economic relief for many Americans. Please follow this link to join my campaign for president by making a generous donation today. Every donation, no matter how small, is crucial to our campaign. Thank you.

re: 120 million and the FEC

2008-04-23T16:52:00.002-07:00

Dear matt,

Governor Dean wrote to you this week about the $120 million fund to remake John McCain and destroy Senator Clinton and Senator Obama.

As part of their plan, John McCain will start a "Compassion Tour" next week designed to position him as a different kind of Republican.

He'll be going into inner city neighborhoods and economically depressed towns, trying to reach out to voters his party traditionally ignores.

Sound familiar? Know any other Republican politicians who have claimed to be a "compassionate conservative"?

We've seen this campaign before: a Republican candidate who holds a dangerous and wrong opinion on Iraq, supported by piles of lobbyist and special interest money, who works non-stop to look folksy and compassionate; a Republican candidate who knows nothing about jobs and the economy, fixing health care or a rational foreign policy.

We've also seen how it turns out. They're able to use their money to get the White House -- and Americans are left with four years of a dangerous Republican president.

We can't let that happen again. We need you to contribute right now so we can counter John McCain's "Compassion Tour," and help fight the $120 million they're going to throw at us.

http://www.democrats.org/competitive

John McCain is like George Bush in every way. We can't let them take the White House again. Make a contribution today:

http://www.democrats.org/competitive

Tom McMahon
Executive Director
Democratic National Committee

take ownership

2008-04-23T16:52:00.001-07:00

Dear Matt,

I wanted to get in touch with you before Monday's voter registration deadline in Kentucky.

Voter registration is about more than just politics -- it's about encouraging folks to get involved in a process they've felt left out of for far too long.

In more than 40 contests so far, that's exactly what we've seen. Millions of people have voted for the first time or come back after years of frustration. Supporters like you have reached out to friends and neighbors and worked to bring about the kind of change we need.

I know we can make this happen in Kentucky -- but only if you take ownership of this effort.

This weekend is our best chance to bring new voices into the political process -- the deadline to register in order to vote in the May 20th primary is next Monday, April 21st. It's more important than ever that you get involved in your community and help register voters.

Supporters are gathering at campaign offices across the state. Come see us at the office near you and make a difference this weekend:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYcanvass

We have only a few days before the deadline -- and thousands of potential supporters to reach.

I hope I can count on your help this weekend.

Thank you,

Barack

P.S. -- If you can't make it out to a canvass this weekend, you can still make a difference. Send a message to your friends and neighbors encouraging them to register before the deadline:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYrtv

hamas and the US election

2008-04-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

Team,

Wednesday's Democratic debate provided insight into Barack Obama's positions on key foreign policy issues. As president he says he would immediately withdraw our troops from Iraq- even if he were strongly advised against this by our nation's top military commanders. He would also hold direct talks with the Iranian regime- a regime that does not recognize Israel and is the largest state sponsor of terrorism in the world. Iran's president has even called for Israel to be "wiped off the map."

During the debate, Barack Obama once again refused to condemn former President Jimmy Carter- who publicly supports Obama- for holding talks with the Hamas terrorist group, a group supported financially, politically and militarily by Iran.

Barack Obama's foreign policy plans have even won him praise from Hamas leaders. Ahmed Yousef, chief political adviser to the Hamas Prime Minister said, "We like Mr. Obama and we hope he will win the election. He has a vision to change America."

We need change in America, but not the kind of change that wins kind words from Hamas, surrenders in Iraq and will hold unconditional talks with Iranian President Ahmadinejad.

John McCain's foreign policy provides a stark contrast to the policies of Barack Obama. As president, John McCain will provide the leadership we need to win the war against Islamic extremists. We need your help today to reach out to Americans across the country to spread the message of John McCain's plan for your national security. Please follow this link to make a financial contribution to our campaign today.

We are in the middle of a hard-fought campaign, and I am confident that the leadership and bold solutions John McCain will provide as our commander in chief are what our nation needs. We need your immediate donation to take John McCain's solutions to the American people.

John McCain will always put the interests of American families above all else. This is the type of leadership we need as a nation, and I hope you will take the time today to join our campaign and make a financial contribution to ensure the policies of Barack Obama do not become the policies of America.

Sincerely,

Christian Ferry
Deputy Campaign Manager

P.S. - The differences between our campaign and that of Barack Obama's could not be more clear. While Senator Obama would surrender in Iraq and hold talks with the Iranian regime, John McCain will never surrender in the struggle with Islamic extremists. Please join our campaign today by making a generous donation of $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000 or $2,300. Thank you.

mad as hell

2008-04-17T13:01:00.001-07:00

Dear matthew,

Watch the lowlights from last night’s debate on ABC. Sick of this junk news?

Take Action Now

I'm outraged about last night's presidential debate on ABC, and you should be too.

ABC dedicated the entire first half of the debate to recycling the same junk news stories about the candidates' personalities and past associations that have been circulating endlessly in recent weeks.

At a time when we are facing life and death decisions about health care, war, climate change and the economy, ABC went for fluff and innuendo. No wonder so many people are misinformed or don’t pay attention to politics.

Last night made a mockery of this election and gave us a stark view of Big Media's impact on our democracy.

We have to do something. Instead of just switching channels, we need to demand better media.

Tell ABC: We Want Quality Journalism, Not Junk News

Media is the lifeblood of our democracy. But as our media falls into fewer and fewer hands, real journalism is being replaced by cheap infotainment and rank sensationalism. Newsrooms are being squeezed, foreign bureaus have been shuttered, and serious issues are simply ignored.

We can do more than just throw open the window and scream, "We're not gonna take it anymore."

Last night's debate is just a symptom of a much more serious sickness afflicting our media system. The root of this problem is bad policies that let Big Media companies like Disney -- which owns ABC -- get so big. It's up to Congress and the FCC to roll back media consolidation.

But it's moments like this that wake people up to the dire state of the media. Help spread the word.

Tell Your Friends: Support Quality Journalism

We deserve better media; we need better media. Let’s hold ABC and Disney accountable -- and fight for media that we can count on.

Onward,

Josh Silver
Executive Director
Free Press
www.freepress.net

P.S. Get connected and help spread the word. Join us on Facebook.

P.P.S. Missed the debate? Read Tom Shales’ review, “In Pa. Debate, the Clear Loser is ABC.”

recession and war

2008-04-17T13:00:00.001-07:00

Dear Matthew,

I'm looking at an amazing new poll.

We commissioned it earlier this year. It shows that voters in all 50 states see a link between the war and our sinking economy. Folks across the country think getting out of Iraq is one of the best ways to help fix our deepening economic crisis.

This message is political dynamite. If the link between Iraq war spending and the recession was in the headlines, John McCain and other pro-war politicians wouldn't get away with their endless war strategy.

We've got to get this out there—so we're ramping up a massive "Iraq/Recession" campaign to get the message out that the war is standing in the way of economic recovery. We'll use ads, bird-dogging, local press conferences from coast to coast, and a host of other methods to make the point. Can you kick in $25? Click here:

https://pol.moveon.org/donate/od0408.html?id=12454-4820096-hJClH5&t=3

Our first step will be to release this new poll next week in hundreds of communities around the country, with the local media looking on. We'll follow that up with a media campaign on the tradeoffs between war and economic progress—and then a bird-dogging campaign aimed at both Senator McCain and Republican Senate candidates. Everywhere these candidates go, we'll make sure it's clear that their most important economic policy is to keep dumping billions every year into Iraq's unwinnable war.

We've got to move forward fast. Every day, Sen. McCain and other pro-war politicians are promoting more of the same failed Bush policies—an endless occupation of Iraq, more preemptive wars—and pretty much getting a free pass from the media.

Click here to chip in now:

https://pol.moveon.org/donate/od0408.html?id=12454-4820096-hJClH5&t=4

We all remember the famous slogan from the 1992 presidential campaign, "It's the economy, stupid." Today, voters are naming the economy as their top concern again. It's critical every voter understands that the Iraq war is standing in the way of economic recovery. If voters understand this link, politicians like Sen. McCain won't be able to get away with their strategy of endless war.

As Elizabeth Edwards recently said, "If the economy is your number one issue when you're voting, the war is, too."

That's why we're scaling up a campaign to say that the money being spent on war should be spent on getting us out of a nasty recession and helping those who are hurting because of it.

Can you chip in $25 to help us run this powerful campaign to connect the dots between recession and war?

https://pol.moveon.org/donate/od0408.html?id=12454-4820096-hJClH5&t=5

Thanks for all you do,

–Nita, Justin, Anna, Eli, and the MoveOn.org Political Action Team
Thursday, April 17th, 2008

Support our member-driven organization: MoveOn.org Political Action is entirely funded by our 3.2 million members. We have no corporate contributors, no foundation grants, no money from unions. Our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. If you'd like to support our work, you can give now at:

http://political.moveon.org/donate/email.html?id=12454-4820096-hJClH5&t=6

PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

mccain lapel pin, for that special interest in your life.

2008-04-17T12:59:00.002-07:00

Dear Fellow Republican,

Our campaign continues to prepare for the upcoming general election in November, and we are working to ensure John McCain is our next President. As a loyal Republican, we will need your support in our campaign against either Senator Clinton or Senator Obama this Fall in what will be a highly competitive race. Your support is crucial in sending John McCain to the White House as our next president, and that's why I ask for your support today.

John McCain remains steadfast in his commitment to a brand of leadership that promotes principle over politics, and now he needs a commitment from you. With your immediate contribution of $100 or more in support of his presidential campaign, you will be sent an official John McCain 2008 lapel pin to identify you as a key McCain supporter.

As president, John McCain will reduce the size of the federal government, reduce your tax burden and win the war against radical Islamic extremism. His vision for our country is a stark contrast to both Democratic candidates who want to expand the size of the federal government, raise your taxes and immediately withdraw our troops from Iraq because of mounting political pressure.

The challenges facing our nation today demand tough solutions and these solutions require real leadership. Show your friends, family and neighbors that John McCain is the leader who will unite our party and win in November by following this link to make a donation for your exclusive lapel pin.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Rick Davis
Campaign Manager

P.S. As a supporter of John McCain's presidential campaign, you will receive a special McCain 2008 lapel pin with your donation of $100 or more today. We need your financial support now more than ever as we raise funds to take on either Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama - who have raised over $400 million combined- in the fall. Please show your support by making a donation and proudly wearing the McCain lapel pin. Thank you.

condi must go

2008-04-17T12:59:00.001-07:00

Dear matt,

You and I suspected it. Now, ABC News confirms it.¹

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice chaired repeated White House meetings approving specific torture techniques before they were used -- then lied about it to Congress.

Now Brave New Films put it all together in a "smoking gun" video. That's why, Democracy for America is partnering with True Majority and Brave New Films to launch an aggressive national campaign with a simple message: Condi Must Go.

Watch the video and sign the petition now.

www.CondiMustGo.com

This is the first time concrete evidence shows that senior White House officials, "not only discussed specific plans and specific interrogation methods, but approved them."

The torture meetings were gruesome in detail, often choreographed "down to the number of times a CIA agent could use a specific tactic" or combination of tactics.

The ABC news report makes it crystal clear that torture committed in Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo Bay were not isolated incidents by a few "bad apples". In fact, these incidents were standard operating procedure dictated at the highest level of government and led by the current Secretary of State. Her directives to the CIA were unambiguous, "This is your baby, go do it."

Join me in signing the "Condi Must Go" petition right now.

www.CondiMustGo.com

Don't sit this petition out because you think Secretary Rice is untouchable. When we joined with Brave New Films to push for the impeachment of Alberto Gonzales last year, no one thought he would ever be forced out of office. Our critics were wrong then, and they are wrong now.

That's why we're working with True Majority and Brave New Films to expose the truth about Condoleezza Rice. Today, we launch the petition. Tonight, we start a media campaign with a 30-second ad airing on ABC immediately after tonight's Presidential debate.

We will not stop until Condoleezza Rice is held accountable. Sign the petition now.

www.CondiMustGo.com

Working together, we move America forward. Thank you for everything you do.

-Jim

Jim Dean
Chair

¹ abcnews(dot)go(dot)com/print?id=4583256

IN barack stuff

2008-04-17T12:58:00.002-07:00

Dear Matt,

Over the weekend, Barack wrapped up a three-day bus tour of Indiana, and it was an amazing trip.

For three days, all across Indiana, he met with folks who are hungry for change -- but frustrated by a politics that never seems to listen to them.

The May 6th primary in Indiana is one of our biggest remaining contests, and supporters from around the country are needed to take the trip and help build our movement here.

Our team put together a video of Barack's tour. Watch it and see the excitement on the ground in Indiana -- then sign up to come spread the word this weekend:

http://in.barackobama.com/INweekend

Our campaign has always relied on grassroots supporters like you to build this movement.

That's why so many supporters have knocked on doors, made phone calls, and even traveled to nearby states to talk to folks about the kind of change we're working to bring about.

Even if you've never participated in politics before, I know you'll have the experience of a lifetime making a difference for Barack in this important contest.

http://in.barackobama.com/INweekend

Thank you,

Mitch

Mitch Stewart
Indiana State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- If you can't make it this weekend, start planning to come to Indiana in the final days before the May 6th primary.

Your help will be crucial during our Get Out The Vote push that begins Saturday, May 2nd.

http://in.barackobama.com/CometoIN

KY barack stuff

2008-04-17T12:58:00.001-07:00

Dear Matt,

Kentucky's voter registration deadline is coming up on Tuesday, April 21st, and anyone who wishes to vote in the primary on May 20th must be registered as a Democrat.

The deadline for non-Democrats to switch parties has passed, but we can still register first-time voters -- and college campuses are the perfect place to make a difference.

Over the next week, Obama supporters will be leading voter registration drives for college students at campuses across the state.

Find the registration drive at a campus near you and sign up to join fellow supporters registering new Democrats:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYcolleges

Thousands of Kentucky students are eager to support Barack in the primary -- but are not yet registered as Democrats. We need your help to reach as many people as possible before the deadline.

Personal contact from someone like you is the most effective way to encourage these potential supporters to register -- and help build a base that will support Democrats in Kentucky for years to come.

No prior political experience is necessary. All you need is a hunger for change -- and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action.

Find the event near you and sign up now:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYcolleges

Bringing new people into the political process is more than just an important part of our strategy -- it's what our movement is all about.

Thank you for all that you've done -- your work is making the difference.

Carolyn

Carolyn Tandy
Kentucky State Director
Obama for America

have you filed your taxes?

2008-04-17T12:57:00.002-07:00

My Friends,

Today, April 15th, marks the deadline when all Americans must file their income taxes. While many of us are aggravated and displeased when we see exactly how much of our hard-earned money goes to the federal government - if one of my Democratic opponents is elected in November, you can be certain your tax rate will increase across the board.

When we elect our next president in November, we will make a clear statement about the direction we want to take our economy and our tax system. As I have said before, this election will present Americans with a clear choice between my vision for our country and that of my Democratic opponents.

I believe today, as I have always believed, in small government, fiscal discipline and low taxes. I believe that tax cuts work best when accompanied by lower spending. And I make the promise to you that if elected president, I plan to make the present tax cuts permanent, lower corporate rates from 35% to 25% and end the Alternative Minimum Tax, which will affect millions of middle class families.

But I cannot succeed in my efforts without your immediate financial support.

I know the Democrats will criticize me relentlessly for proposing tax cuts, and they have raised more than $400 million to spend attacking my candidacy and our shared conservative ideals. My campaign must be financially prepared to respond to this criticism, and that's why I ask that you follow this link immediately to make a donation of $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000 or up to the legal limit of $2,300.

There is a lot at stake in this election. If either of my Democratic opponents, Senators Clinton or Obama is elected, they have made it perfectly clear they plan to raise your taxes.

Senators Clinton and Obama have called for higher income taxes, higher social security taxes, higher investment taxes and higher corporate taxes. They have both already laid out plans to pass record-setting tax increases.

My friends, this is not the kind of change our country needs. Your immediate donation is absolutely critical because as we've seen from their record-setting fundraising efforts, Senators Clinton and Obama will do whatever it takes to win in November. My campaign must be financially prepared for what will be a great contest come November.

I hope I can count on your immediate financial support. Thank you.

Sincerely,

John McCain

P.S. My Democratic opponents are more determined than ever before to win the White House in November. To date, they've raised over $400 million for their efforts. If elected, both Senators Clinton and Obama have made it clear they will raise your taxes. I want to cut your taxes and reduce the wasteful spending that has taken over Washington, but I will not succeed in my efforts without your immediate financial support. Please follow this link right away to make a contribution of $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000 or any other amount up to the legal limit of $2,300. Thank you.

judges and stuff

2008-04-17T12:57:00.001-07:00

Dear matthew,

Repairing the damage to our Constitution and our standing in the world will take years, but RIGHT NOW certain senators can stop more of President Bush's dangerous judicial nominees from getting lifetime seats on the federal courts.

As the Republican tantrum over unconfirmed nominees continues, key Democratic senators are starting to echo what we've been saying: in these months leading up to a presidential election, controversial nominees need not and should not be considered for confirmation. Hundreds of Bush judges are already doing plenty of damage to your rights and legal protections.

Tell senators on the Judiciary Committee to stand up to Bush and his Senate allies by invoking the well-established Senate tradition of not considering controversial judicial nominees in the months leading up to a presidential election.

It's urgent that we get as many people as possible to add their name to this fight via our petition at http://www.pfaw.org/go/EnoughBushJudges.

Please sign now and then do your part to help make sure others join the petition as well.

In a post on The Hill's Congress Blog on Friday, PFAW Legal Director Judith E. Schaeffer pointed out the hypocrisy of Republicans who are trying to create a crisis where there is none, using the example of one particularly controversial nominee:

Senate Republicans are trying to turn Peter Keisler, a co-founder of the Federalist Society and a former law clerk for Robert Bork, into a poster boy for alleged foot-dragging by Democrats on Bush's judicial nominees. Keisler has been nominated by Bush to fill the 11th seat on the D.C. Circuit, one of the most important appellate courts in the country. Back when President Clinton tried to fill this very same seat, Senate Republicans blocked those efforts, claiming that the court's caseload was not heavy enough to justify having 11 judges. Well, that caseload has decreased in the interim, yet Republicans are now stomping their feet, demanding that Keisler be confirmed.

Senators on the Judiciary Committee need to reject the Republicans' ridiculous charade, the real purpose of which is to energize their Radical Right base (whose pet issue is of course the federal judiciary). Click here to tell them: http://www.pfaw.org/go/EnoughBushJudges

The country is faced with pressing needs on which the Senate needs to focus. Senators should NOT be spending their time helping George W. Bush expand his legacy by packing the courts with more bad judges.

-- Your Voice Against Bush's Judges, People For the American Way

FEC and McCain

2008-04-17T12:55:00.002-07:00

Dear matt,

A recent report by the Associated Press has revealed that the Republican National Committee is pulling together a joint fund with John McCain called the "Victory Committee." Its goal is to raise $120 million -- which they're sure to spend trying to destroy our candidates.

We've seen this before -- we know they're already launching attacks on Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. And while they're tearing them down, they'll try to spin John McCain to the American people.

It's a $120 million makeover fund, designed to make everyone forget about the last eight years of John McCain, George Bush, the war, the economy, Katrina, and a stunning lack of competency.

We can't let John McCain and the RNC get away with it -- Hillary and Barack need us to fight back while they're trying to win the nomination.

That's why I'm making an urgent request for you to help us with a contribution today -- we have to keep up. They've got a head start, but we can stay competitive if you make a contribution right now:

http://www.democrats.org/competitive

This $120 million fund is about more than just money and negative ads though -- it goes to the core of what John McCain pretends to be.

As a "maverick reformer," he has repeatedly claimed to be a crusader for campaign finance reform, but he has shown little regard for campaign finance law. At the same time, he's staffed the highest levels of his campaign with Washington lobbyists, with one of them going so far as to work out of McCain's campaign bus.

I emailed at the end of February about McCain's decision to break the law and unilaterally withdraw from primary matching funds. We filed a complaint with the FEC that many of you signed your support for, but it has been unable to act.

So yesterday, we sued the FEC to force an investigation into whether McCain has violated campaign finance law. We refuse to let his campaign go unchecked, and we'll do whatever it takes to make sure he is held accountable.

It takes a lot to raise $120 million, but John McCain's staff of lobbyists knows they can count on checks from their friends and special interests. They can't raise the money they need without it.

So this is what we're up against -- a $120 million fundraising push, an opponent who's already broken campaign finance law, a team of lobbyists who have plenty of friends to help them get the cash they need to trash our candidates, and an FEC that is unable to act on our complaint.

We need to stay competitive, and the only way to do that is for you to make a contribution right now:

http://www.democrats.org/competitive

Your contribution means we stay competitive. It means we can go out and respond to the Republican attacks while Hillary and Barack work to become our party's nominee.

And your support means we can show the Republicans that, as in 2005, 2006 and 2007, Democrats plan to compete everywhere -- and win.

Thanks for all that you do,

Howard Dean

fix FISA

2008-04-17T12:55:00.001-07:00

Dear Matt:

Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a strong and balanced FISA bill, legislation that protects America’s national security while defending civil liberties – without granting retroactive immunity to phone companies. Retroactive immunity would abet the Bush-Cheney Administration’s efforts to avoid accountability for its actions.

Now that the House has passed
a fair FISA bill, it's time to
turn our attention back to
the Senate.

Forward an email to
your Senators now!

This was a tremendous accomplishment -- and would not have been possible without the hard work and support from engaged citizens like you. The fight for a fair FISA bill has been waged all across the country: in the halls of Congress, on progressive political blogs, in newspaper editorial pages, on the public airwaves, and around dinner tables and water coolers from coast-to-coast.

But there’s still much work to do. Now that the House has passed a fair FISA bill, it’s time to turn our attention back to the Senate – and we hope you’ll join us in urging our Senate colleagues to sign on to the strong FISA legislation the House passed just last month.

Urge the Senate to support the House’s strong and balanced FISA bill – forward an email to your Senators now!

We’ve already seen the impact of grassroots activity on the FISA debate. Your emails, phone calls, blog posts, and letters-to-the-editor – including more than 1,600 letters written [by you and other friends] in response to our call last month alone – really do make a huge difference. Thank you so much!

Now we need your help to make sure that our colleagues in the Senate know that the American people are watching – and that they want a FISA bill that protects our national security, preserves our civil liberties, and refuses retroactive immunity to telecom companies.

Urge the Senate to support the House’s strong and balanced FISA bill – forward an email to your Senators now!

First the Bush-Cheney Administration tried to bully the House into accepting its own deeply flawed FISA legislation. Then White House officials and Congressional Republicans refused to meet with us to hammer out a better bill. And then the President and his allies blocked our attempts to temporarily extend existing surveillance legislation – incredibly blaming Democrats for their own efforts to let the legislation expire.

Despite all of this bullying, cajoling, and foot-dragging, we’re proud that our House Democratic colleagues stood firm, refusing to water down the strong, balanced FISA bill that passed the House and is now on its way to the Senate.

Now we need your help to encourage our Democratic colleagues in the Senate to stand firm as well.

Urge the Senate to support the House’s strong and balanced FISA bill – forward an email to your Senators now!

Thank you, once again, for your continued support on this critical issue.

bitter

2008-04-17T12:52:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

We've all said things that we've regretted. Sometimes they result from a mere slip of the tongue and sometimes they reveal deeply held beliefs that you'd rather not communicate to the world.

A few days ago, at a San Francisco fundraiser, Barack Obama described Americans who live in small towns or other areas that have experienced a loss of jobs as "bitter" people, adding that it didn't surprise him that they, "..cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

These words are revealing on a number of levels, and expose the out-of-touch beliefs to which John McCain offers stark contrast. Today, John McCain offered a different account of small town America:

"During the Great Depression, with many millions of Americans out of work and the country suffering the worst economic crisis in our history, there rose from small towns, rural communities, inner cities, a generation of Americans who fought to save the world from despotism and mass murder, and came home to build the wealthiest, strongest and most generous nation on earth.
They suffered the worst during the Depression, but it did not shake their faith in, and fidelity to, America. They did not turn to their religious faith and cultural traditions out of resentment and a feeling of powerlessness to affect the course of government or pursue prosperity. On the contrary, their faith had given generations of their families' purpose and meaning, as it does today."

These hard working men and women aren't "bitter". They love their country, their faith, their family and their traditions. They are the heart and soul of this country, the foundation of our strength and the primary authors of its essential goodness - Barack Obama should get to know them.

If Barack Obama is the Democrat nominee in the general election, the American people will have a clear choice between two different visions - Senator Obama's liberal, elitist philosophy and John McCain's faith in the small town values that continue to make America great. John McCain will not forget them or write them off. Neither should Barack Obama.

We are up against a large fundraising hurdle if Barack Obama is the nominee and we need your help now. Even before the general election begins, the differences are clear, we must do everything we can to make sure these beliefs don't make it into the White House.

I hope you will make a contribution today.

Sincerely,

Rick Davis
Campaign Manager

DSCC rant

2008-04-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Remember Jack Abramoff, the jailed Republican lobbyist busted a couple of years ago for fraud, corruption, and shady dealings with Tom DeLay?

Colorado Republican Bob Schaffer hopes you don't. Because it's going to be awfully hard for him to win his Senate election once the voters know that Schaffer is just another Republican tainted by scandal.

An Abramoff front group paid $13,000 to send Schaffer to the Northern Marianas Islands. Ostensibly, the purpose of the trip was for Schaffer to investigate well-documented human rights abuses by Abramoff clients.

What surprised us is the floating, mid-air garment factory - accessible only by parasail - now operating in the Northern Marinas.

After all, that's the only possible explanation for the newly surfaced photograph of Schaffer parasailing on Abramoff's dime, right? It couldn't possibly mean that a crooked lobbyist was showering this congressman with all the extras at a lavish 5-star tropical resort, right?

Nah...couldn't be...

Needless to say, Schaffer claimed he didn't find any indications of abuse, despite a mountain of evidence. And after he returned to Washington, Schaffer became one of Abramoff's leading attack dogs against anyone trying to bring reform to the Northern Marinas.

Click here to learn more about Bob Schaffer's tropical vacation, paid for by Jack Abramoff.

The news broke last week and is burning up the Colorado newspapers. We'll be sure to keep you updated as the story unravels.

And no matter what happens, the DSCC will be working day and night to make sure Colorado elects Democrat Mark Udall and his record of courageous leadership on the war in Iraq and renewable energy issues.

The last thing we need is another Abramoff crony in Washington.

april 11 mccain update

2008-04-12T10:19:00.000-07:00

The McCain Update - April 11, 2008

John McCain began the week focusing on the war in Iraq and the larger struggle against radical Islamic extremism. He spoke at the VFW National headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, on Monday. On Tuesday, he heard about the importance of continuing the new strategy in Iraq when General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker testified before the Senate on the progress being made there. Later in the week, John McCain also addressed the economic problems affecting America's families by unveiling several new critical economic initiatives during a Brooklyn Small Business Roundtable.

This week, John McCain's public service announcement for American Idol's charity, "Idol Gives Back," appeared on the popular show. Click here to watch the clip of the ad!

John McCain spoke Monday at the National Veterans of Foreign Wars Headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri. He was grateful to be in the company of Americans who have had the burden of serving our country in distant lands and the honor of having proved their patriotism in difficult circumstances.

The job of bringing security to Iraq is not finished, but we are no longer staring into the abyss of defeat and can look ahead to the genuine prospect of success. We have a great opportunity, not only to bring stability and freedom to Iraq, but to make Iraq a pillar of our future strategy for the Middle East. If we seize the opportunity before us, we stand to gain a strong, stable, democratic ally against terrorism and an ally in the region against an aggressive and radical Iran.

John McCain discussed the critical need to provide for our veterans after their courageous service. As president, he will do everything in his power to ensure that those who serve today and those who have served in the past have access to the highest quality health, mental health and rehabilitative care in the world. Whatever our commitments to veterans may cost, John McCain will keep them. To read his entire speech to the VFW, click here.

On Tuesday, John McCain listened to General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker's testimony on the current situation in Iraq, including the danger of Iran, the continuing threat of al-Qaeda in Iraq and the security of the Iraqi people.

John McCain's opponents’ constant call for an immediate withdrawal, regardless of the consequences, is a reckless and dangerous move that would threaten the long term security of our country. Leadership is not about bowing to political pressure; it is about thinking through the consequences and having the experience and judgment to make the tough decisions.

As president, John McCain will ensure that our troops come home victorious in a war that is a critical part of the larger struggle against radical Islamic extremism. He will keep our national security his highest priority.

Before the Iraq Senate hearings Tuesday, John McCain attended the Veterans for Freedom Rally outside of the Capitol. Among others, John McCain was joined by Senators Joe Lieberman and Lindsey Graham, who also have been outstanding supporters of our military men and women.

At the rally, John McCain said, "No one detests war more than a veteran. But the veteran also knows the consequences of defeat means greater sacrifice and greater numbers who are wounded and killed. You know better than any, the consequences of defeat." Click here to see pictures from the rally.

John McCain outlined several new initiatives to provide immediate help for American families. Across the country, hard-working families are facing economic challenges. Gas prices are rising, mortgages are threatened, and thousands have lost their jobs. Now is the time to act, and John McCain outlined several near-term, tangible plans to address some of the challenges confronting Americans today. Click here to read his plan.

At the Brooklyn Small Business Roundtable in New York on Thursday, John McCain discussed his plan and how to get our economy back on track. For Americans, a good job is the best program for housing, education, clothing, health care and transportation ever devised. A strong, growing economy with good jobs is central to everything we want for America. Today our economy is weakening, and as John McCain travels around the country and meets with people, he sees how things are getting tougher for many Americans. John McCain's plan will help alleviate the economic pressures on American families by bolstering job security, confronting higher living costs, and facing the housing crisis with real solutions. Click here to read the full speech.

McCain Star Supporters

Congratulations to all of our winners from the McCain Basketball Brackets challenge! We had outstanding participation and appreciate everyone who took the time to submit their brackets. All of the winners defeated John McCain, whose final pick of UNC fell in the final four. In the main contest, Gary Brown won with 169 points. Jeffrey Carlington was second with 168 points and Tucker Peve was third with 167 points. In the Second Chance contest, the first place winner was Johnny Moats with 124 points. Nicole Najim and Peter Smith tied for second with 120 points each. Sara Meriweather and Laura Norton tied for third place with 116 points each. Our first place winners will receive a McCain fleece, second place winners will receive a McCain hat and the third place contestants will receive a pin.

Our winning schools were University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill in first place, Ohio State University - Columbus in second place and University of Kansas in third place. Thank you to everyone who participated in the bracket challenge. We appreciate your support!

We want to again congratulate Vivian and Elliott Palefsky from Savannah, Georgia, who were the lucky winners of the Ride the Bus contest as part of the Service to America tour last week. The Palefskys had a great time with John McCain aboard the Straight Talk Express in Jacksonville, Florida. If you have not had a chance to watch the video of their experience, 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.

McCain Press Release: Statement By John McCain On China And The Olympic Games

McCain Press Release: John McCain Outlines New Initiatives To Provide Immediate Help For American Families

Fortune Magazine: Why McCain Has the Best Health-Care Plan

McCain Press Release: McCain Honors The Sacrifice Of Michael Monsoor

Baltimore Sun: McCain's Memphis Tribute to King

Florida Times-Union: McCain Has this Crowd at 'Hello Again'

Time Magazine: McCain: Loving His Misspent Youth

Reuters: McCain Says He Knows Economy Better than Democrats

$40 million attacks by the far left

2008-04-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

Dear McCain Supporter,

George Soros the "liberal megadonor" is at it again. He and his group of billionaire left-wing Democrats have pledged $40 million dollars of soft money to smear John McCain in a national television ad campaign.

In an article published in Politico, it was reported that Paul Begala and David Brock met with a gang of Manhattan liberals at the home of George Soros to outline their plans for a $40 million dollar ad campaign against Senator McCain. Brock is quoted as saying the group could do the work of the press corps that has "fallen down on the job" when it comes to McCain!

Folks, that is why we need your help and we need it now. We need to be able to answer whatever smear campaigns the liberal left throws at us. Please help as we combat this base demagoguery with a donation of $50, $100, $250 or even $1000 today.

Soros and his liberal friends need to know that they cannot buy this election with their billions. With your help we will continue to get out the straight talk on the issues that Americans care about.

Sincerely,

Rick Davis
Campaign Manager

P.S. - Billionaire George Soros has shown time after time that he is willing to fund baseless left-wing smear campaigns. Help us combat the millions he plans to use against us - please make your most generous donation right away. Many thanks.

[And how many millions and billions have the far right spent on aggressively publishing pseudo-journalistic commentary magazines pushing failed ideas and broadcasting TV ads turning Max Cleland into Osama?]

left wing extremists

2008-04-11T09:01:00.000-07:00

Dear matt,

You and I have seen this attack before.

Yesterday morning, the Miami Herald quoted Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart calling Joe Garcia and his supporters "left-wing extremists."

"Joe Garcia continues to align himself with left-wing extremists. The latest to join the ranks is Congressman Charlie Rangel," reads a statement from Diaz-Balart's campaign.

"He has a long and well-known history of supporting a radical left-wing agenda including supporting higher taxes on working families and appeasing our nation's enemies. Left-wing birds of a feather, tax and spend together."

I know we will not just stand aside and let these attacks go unanswered. Let's show this Bush-Republican machine what we can do when "birds of a feather" really flock together, contribute $20.08 to Joe Garcia right now.

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

During our Dean for America days together, we learned to always fight back.

Now, I'm the Senior Advisor to Joe Garcia's powerful campaign to take back south Florida. The early endorsement of Democracy for America led the way in bringing us a national spotlight, and helped us grow our people-powered, grassroots campaign. DFA members provide us with boots on the ground and the small-donor, financial support to back them up.

Joe Garcia has already strongly rejected Mario Diaz-Balart's claims. We can reject them by showing our people-powered support for Joe Garcia today. Contribute $20.08 now:

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

We know that the more this campaign grows -- the more supporters from across south Florida and the country that get involved -- the more negative and desperate Republican Rep. Diaz-Balart will get. This is just the beginning. And while these tactics might have worked in the past, they won't work this time. At least, not with your strong support.

Working together, we stand for a different kind of politics.

-Joe

Joe Trippi
Senior Advisor for Joe Garcia for Congress

[goddamit mccain read the news or something!]

2008-04-10T07:19:00.002-07:00

My Friends,

Today, I had the privilege to hear from General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker on the current state of the war in Iraq and the progress that has been made there. We owe these two patriotic Americans a debt of gratitude for their selfless service to our country.

At the beginning of last year, we were engaged in a great debate about what to do in Iraq. Four years of mismanaged war had brought us almost to the point of no return. Sectarian violence in Iraq was spiraling out of control, life had become a struggle for survival, and a full-scale civil war seemed almost unavoidable. Al Qaeda in Iraq was on the offensive and entire Iraqi provinces were under the control of extremists.

However, rather than retreat from Iraq and face the terrible consequences that would ensue, we chose to change strategies and turn things around. I was proud to be an outspoken advocate for this change in strategy and endured much criticism from members of both parties. As I've said time and time again, I'd rather lose a campaign than lose a war.

"Never despair," Winston Churchill once said. And we did not despair. We were tested, and we rose to the challenge. Some political leaders close their eyes to the progress that the surge has made possible, and want only to argue about the past.

But the question for the next president is not about the past, but about the future and how to secure it.

While the job of bringing security to Iraq is not finished - as the recent fighting in Basra and elsewhere vividly demonstrated - we are no longer staring into the abyss of defeat, and we can now look ahead to the genuine prospect of success. Success - the establishment of a peaceful, stable, prosperous, democratic state that poses no threat to its neighbors and contributes to the defeat of terrorists - this success is within reach.

Should the United States choose to withdraw from Iraq as Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama wish to do; before adequate security is established, we will exchange for this victory a defeat that is terrible and long lasting. Al Qaeda in Iraq would proclaim victory and increase its efforts to provoke sectarian tensions, pushing for a full scale civil war that could descend into genocide and destabilize the Middle East. Iraq would become a failed state that could become a haven for terrorists to train and plan their operations.

We cannot allow this to happen.

The American people deserve the truth from their leaders. Doing the right thing in the heat of a political campaign is not always the easiest thing. But when 4,000 Americans have given their lives so that America does not suffer the worst consequences of our failure in Iraq, it is a necessary thing. In such a grave matter, we must put the nation's interests before our own ambitions.

My opponents' calls for an immediate withdraw, regardless of the consequences, is a reckless and dangerous move that would threaten the long term security of our country. Leadership is not about bowing to the political pressures, it is about thinking through the consequences and having the experience and judgment to make the tough decisions.

Senators Clinton and Obama will surely echo the sentiments of their extreme liberal supporters and call for a pre-emptive withdrawal from Iraq. The American people deserve better. I encourage both candidates to move beyond empty and destructive rhetoric and elevate the debate to a level that the country deserves. There are tough decisions ahead and America deserves leaders that are up to the challenge.

As president, I will ensure that our troops come home victorious in this war that is part of the larger struggle against radical Islamic extremism and will continue to make keeping our nation secure my highest priority.

Sincerely,

John McCain

P.S. - Please join me by signing this petition today, calling on Senators Clinton and Obama to support our troops on the ground and the mission they are carrying out.

a sea of obama ads

2008-04-10T07:19:00.001-07:00

Dear john,

With 14 days to go until the people of Pennsylvania vote, the Obama campaign has decided to go all-out. They're trying to end the race for the White House with an unyielding media blitz. Right now, we're being outspent 4-1 on Pennsylvania television.

So now, here's what we have to ask ourselves: Have we come this far in our history-making contest for the Democratic nomination only to see the race decided not by the quality of our ideas but by the size of our opponent's media budget?

Not a chance -- not if you and I have anything to say about it. And, believe me, we do.

Don't let a sea of Obama ads overwhelm our powerful message in Pennsylvania. Contribute now.

Everywhere I campaign in Pennsylvania, I meet people who are bearing the brunt of George Bush's failures on the war, the economy, health care, and other critical issues.

They're eager to hear our powerful call for change. But, we need more ads on the air to make sure our message gets through to people.

With just 14 days to go, please step up and help us close the Obama campaign's 4-1 advantage. Contribute now.

Everything is on the line in Pennsylvania and the states to follow. And we still have the only advantage any campaign should hope for -- the ability to determine our fate by how hard we work and how determined we are to pull through to victory.

This is one of the closest, most spirited contests for the Democratic nomination we've ever seen. And I have to tell you: I wouldn't want to be going through this remarkable experience with anyone other than you.

With a little less than two weeks to go, let's give it everything we've got.

Sincerely,

what they want

2008-04-10T07:18:00.001-07:00

Dear john,

Please take the time to listen, as I have, to the voices of our fellow citizens in Michigan and Florida.

A supporter from Marion, MI put it simply: "We want to have our voice heard! We want to vote!" Another in Delray Beach, FL reminded Americans of what we all believe, "Our votes should count. We went to the polls in good faith that our votes would count and our voices would be heard."

Tens of thousands of people in Michigan, Florida, and all over the country are standing up and speaking out, urging that we live up to our democratic ideals. In our hearts we know that voters everywhere deserve the chance to make their voices heard.

Hillary Clinton respects all voters and their right to participate in this historic contest. Their votes, along with all the others, will and should determine when this contest is at an end. It's the American way -- everybody counts in this country.

I know you will join with Americans everywhere who are proudly standing with their fellow citizens in making sure the great states of Michigan and Florida have a voice in this race -- along with all the states who will cast their ballots in the upcoming months. Today is the day to step forward for democracy. Today is the day to sign on to make sure that all American voices are heard.

Click here to show your support for seating Florida and Michigan delegates at the convention.

Thank you for all you are doing for our country and for our campaign.

Sincerely,

Maggie Williams
Campaign Manager
Hillary for President

the crowds

2008-04-10T07:17:00.001-07:00

Dear john,

When I turn on the TV all I hear is negative words. The news stations keep telling you that we're down and out. But that's plainly not true. I'm on the trail every day for Hillary and the crowds are bigger than ever before, and let me tell you - they are excited!

I wanted to show you a video from a recent event with Hillary in North Carolina - you can see for yourself Hillary's packed events and enthusiastic supporters.

Click here to watch the video.

Sincerely,

Terry McAuliffe
Chairman, Hillary Clinton for President

enough is enough

2008-04-10T07:16:00.001-07:00

Dear matthew,

If you haven't already seen the latest video message from PFAW President Kathryn Kolbert and signed our petition urging the Senate to halt consideration of ANY more of George W. Bush's controversial judicial nominations, please check it out now.

Click to watch

Bush allies in the Senate are turning on the heat, trying to push through ultra-conservative, highly controversial judges -- judges who will carry on the Bush administration's influence for a lifetime on the highest courts in the land.

But there is a longstanding Senate practice of ending the consideration of controversial nominees in the months before a presidential election. It's time to say enough is enough

Check out the video message from PFAW President Kathryn Kolbert explaining why the Senate Judiciary Committee must stop all further confirmations of controversial judges ... and then, sign our petition.

http://www.pfaw.org/go/StopBadJudges

-- Your Allies at People For the American Way

6 months at a time

2008-04-10T07:14:00.001-07:00

Dear MoveOn member,

No matter what happens in Iraq, the Bush administration and John McCain always have an answer: 6 more months.

When the "surge" began a year ago, they told America things would get better by September. In September, they said we'd know more by spring. And this week, General Petraeus is on Capitol Hill asking for—you guessed it—6 more months. Senator McCain and President Bush couldn't agree more.

They don't have a plan for getting us out of Iraq. So they're trying to sell endless war on an installment plan.

Six more months won't change anything—except the body count and the price tag. It's critical that the news media and voters know that the Bush-McCain strategy in Iraq is to keep us there indefinitely—6 months at a time. So we've put together a video exposing their "6 month" gambit. Please check it out and pass it on:

Watch the video

What exactly are they saying?

Yesterday John McCain said the same thing he's been saying for the last 5 years: We have to stay in Iraq, but "success is in reach."

And General Petraeus told the Senate that it would be fall before he could say whether, or when, to draw down troops below the "pre-surge" levels. (Specifically, he recommended a 45-day period for "evaluation" starting in the summer, followed by an open-ended "assessment" process to decide what to do next).¹

It all boils down to this: Demand more time and promise that victory is just over the horizon. Unfortunately, according to experts from the Iraq Study Group, the "surge" has gotten us "no closer to being able to leave Iraq than [we were] a year ago."²

More than 4,000 Americans are dead. We've spent almost $500 billion on this war. A year after the "surge" began, Americans are no safer, and there is no end in sight.

With the Bush-McCain wait-and-see strategy, we can expect to hear "6 more months" for years and years to come.

We can't just sit by. We've got to speak out now—please help spread the word.

Thanks for all you do,

–Nita, Justin, Eli, Marika, and the MoveOn.org Political Action Team
Wednesday, April 9th, 2008

P.S. If you had trouble clicking on the video above, try this link:
http://pol.moveon.org/sixmonths/?id=12416-4820096-59Z42T&t=3

Sources:

1. "Petraeus Calls for Troop Withdrawal Halt," Associated Press, April 8, 2008
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=3556&id=12416-4820096-59Z42T&t=4

2. "Report: US No Closer to Iraq Goals," Associated Press, April 6, 2008.
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=3555&id=12416-4820096-59Z42T&t=5

http://political.moveon.org/donate/email.html?id=12416-4820096-59Z42T&t=6

PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

McCain is scary

2008-04-10T07:12:00.001-07:00

Dear matt,

John McCain is so wrong on Iraq, he can't even get the basic facts about the situation on the ground correct.

Today, as he was questioning Gen. David Petraeus, he again confused the difference between Shiite and Sunni Muslims.

At least five times as a candidate John McCain has stated that Iran (a Shiite nation) is supporting Al-Qaeda (a Sunni group) in Iraq. This is not some minor mistake, but a significant gaffe. He clearly does not understand the sensitive political dynamics in that region of the world.

What's worse is that he's done it at important times when you'd expect him to be at his best -- he did it today in the Senate while questioning the commander of American forces in Iraq, and he did it on a recent trip to the Middle East.

If John McCain can't remember such a simple fact at crucial times, how will he be able to do it as President?

We have to stop John McCain from taking control of the White House, and stop him from taking over George Bush's war in Iraq. Can you write a letter to the editor of your local paper letting voters in your area know just how confused John McCain is?

http://www.democrats.org/gaffes

Once is misspeaking -- five times is a dangerous lack of understanding. John McCain so badly misunderstands Iraq that he's content to stay there for 100 years, something he's said multiple times. He has also failed to explain how he would pay for a war that is now costing you and me $12 billion each month -- money we could be using to help our economy here at home.

John McCain wants us to believe that his decades of foreign policy experience make him the natural choice to lead our nation at war with terrorists.

We just can't afford someone who just doesn't understand Iraq -- it's too dangerous.

Thanks for your support.

Howard Dean

mccain's ideas

2008-04-10T06:57:00.001-07:00

My Fellow Republicans,

Last week, I embarked on a "Service to America" tour visiting various places that have had great importance in my life. I have always considered service to our country the greatest duty and highest honor, and I continue to encourage others to answer the call, as I believe it is everyone's duty to serve a cause greater than one's self.

Like so many American men and women today, I answered our nation's call to duty early in my life. From the time I entered the U.S. Naval Academy at the age of 17, through the years I spent in Vietnam, and during my tenure in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve our nation.

I am convinced that every challenge I have confronted during my years of serving our country and its ideals has made me better able to lead and ready to serve as president from day one. I humbly ask you to join my campaign for President of the United States today so that I may be so fortunate as to serve our country a little while longer.

I have had the honor to share my service to America with many great men and women. Most inspiring of all was President Ronald Reagan. Today, I am as sure as I was when I first entered public life as a foot soldier in the Reagan Revolution that the principles of the Republican Party are always in the best interests of the American people, I've fought relentlessly in Washington for conservative change to cut taxes, put an end to wasteful spending, and strengthen our military.

On issue after issue, never in recent memory has there been such a stark difference in the direction that opposing candidates want to lead America. I intend to win the war in Iraq and bring our troops home with honor in that victory. Senators Clinton and Obama want to surrender and withdraw our armed forces. When I'm your president, I will continue my fight to end wasteful spending and restore fiscal responsibility to Washington. My Democratic opponents will raise your taxes. In these challenging economic times, the last thing we need is a Democratic president raising our taxes as both Senators Clinton and Obama will do.

When I'm your president, I will promote market-based solutions and consumer choice in order to provide families with affordable and quality health care. Senators Clinton and Obama will offer a big-government solution to health care coverage.

As your Republican candidate for president, I have an enormous sense of responsibility and duty. That's why I am not in the habit of making promises to my country that I do not intend to keep.

Therefore, I come to you offering leadership, experience, judgment and real solutions based on my commitment to the conservative agenda - for that is what separates me from my Democratic opponents. These are the qualities that I firmly believe have prepared me to guide our nation forward.

But I cannot win this election alone - I need your help.

I stand before you ready to continue my service to our great nation - and prepared to uphold the conservative values that millions of Americans hold dear. I hope you will join me in this fight by following this link to make a campaign contribution of any amount - up to the legal limit of $2,300.

Thank you,

John McCain

P.S. I have never forgotten what it means to be an American. Even during the toughest of times, when I was a POW in Vietnam, what sustained me during those five and a half years of captivity was my faith in God, faith in my country, and faith in my fellow prisoners. And I'll never forget that day, 35 years ago, when I and many other very happy prisoners of war were returned to freedom.

My friends, we are so fortunate to live in the greatest nation on earth. I am running for President of the United States because I believe in the greatness of this nation as a beacon of goodwill throughout the world. Please consider making a generous contribution to my presidential campaign of $50, $100, $500, $1,000, or $2,300 today. Thank you.

help barack in kentucky

2008-04-10T06:56:00.001-07:00

Dear Matt,

The Kentucky primary is only six weeks away, but there's another important deadline coming up even sooner.

Anyone who wants to vote on May 20th must register as a Democrat by April 21st. If you are not currently registered, you must register as a Democrat in order to vote for Barack.

This race is extremely close, and every vote matters. Make your support count by registering as a Democrat today:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYvote

If you're certain that you're already a registered Democrat, take a moment to invite five of your friends to register as Democrats so they can join you in voting in the Kentucky primary:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYrtv

This campaign has generated unprecedented enthusiasm all across the country. Hundreds of thousands of supporters have attended events, canvassed their neighborhoods, and organized their communities for Barack.

But the Kentucky primary is quickly approaching, and now's the time to turn our enthusiasm for Barack into votes. The deadline to register as a Democrat is April 21st, but you can register today:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYvote

Thank you,

Lauren

Lauren Kidwell
Kentucky Field Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- After making sure you're registered, make an even bigger difference.

Across the state, people are committing to knock on doors, make phone calls, and help bring more voices into the political process by registering voters in Kentucky.

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYvolunteer

through new orleans

2008-04-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

[Ok, my posts to this site are probably going to be by the week from now on, until my schedule straightens out with the summer...]

Dear matthew,

One of the DSCC's most important responsibilities is to keep you, our most dedicated supporters, up-to-the-minute on all the latest developments from Senate campaigns across the country. This job is especially significant during this critical election year, when so much media attention is focused on the presidential race.

That's why the DSCC's Amy Rubin is traveling to all our key states - video camera in hand - to give you the inside story on how we're going to expand our Senate majority in November.

For her most recent video, I dispatched Amy to New Orleans where she toured the devastated Lower Ninth Ward with Democratic Senator Mary Landrieu. This new clip captures the real connection between Senator Landrieu and the people she serves.

Click here to take a look at our new video from New Orleans. It's just the latest dispatch from our new series, The Road to Victory.

I've been proud to serve with Senator Landrieu as she fights for the relief and rebuilding assistance they need in Louisiana. I know that the people we talked to are ready to stand up in November and fight to make sure she is reelected.

Watch the video and you'll see one of her constituents deliver a simple and heartfelt message of support: "I believe in her. I really do."

That's all I need to hear. I'm doing everything I can to give the DSCC all the resources we need to help Senator Landrieu secure victory this fall. I hope I can count on your support every step of the way.

Sincerely,

Chuck Schumer

10 things about McCain

2008-04-06T17:06:00.001-07:00

Dear MoveOn member,

For all the coverage this week of Senator John McCain's background, there are some important things you won't learn about him from the TV networks. His carefully crafted positive image relies on people not knowing this stuff—and you might be surprised by some of it.

Please check out the list below, and then forward it to your friends, family, and coworkers. We can't rely on the media to tell folks about the real John McCain—but if we all pass this along, we can reach as many people as CNN Headline News does on a good night.

Click here to tell us how many people you can pass it on to—and to see our progress nationally:

http://pol.moveon.org/mccain10/?id=12407-4820096-.bKR6v&t=231

10 things you should know about John McCain (but probably don't):

1. John McCain voted against establishing a national holiday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Now he says his position has "evolved," yet he's continued to oppose key civil rights laws.¹

2. According to Bloomberg News, McCain is more hawkish than Bush on Iraq, Russia and China. Conservative columnist Pat Buchanan says McCain "will make Cheney look like Gandhi."²

3. His reputation is built on his opposition to torture, but McCain voted against a bill to ban waterboarding, and then applauded President Bush for vetoing that ban.³

4. McCain opposes a woman's right to choose. He said, "I do not support Roe versus Wade. It should be overturned."⁴

5. The Children's Defense Fund rated McCain as the worst senator in Congress for children. He voted against the children's health care bill last year, then defended Bush's veto of the bill.⁵

6. He's one of the richest people in a Senate filled with millionaires. The Associated Press reports he and his wife own at least eight homes! Yet McCain says the solution to the housing crisis is for people facing foreclosure to get a "second job" and skip their vacations.⁶

7. Many of McCain's fellow Republican senators say he's too reckless to be commander in chief. One Republican senator said: "The thought of his being president sends a cold chill down my spine. He's erratic. He's hotheaded. He loses his temper and he worries me."⁷

8. McCain talks a lot about taking on special interests, but his campaign manager and top advisers are actually lobbyists. The government watchdog group Public Citizen says McCain has 59 lobbyists raising money for his campaign, more than any of the other presidential candidates.⁸

9. McCain has sought closer ties to the extreme religious right in recent years. The pastor McCain calls his "spiritual guide," Rod Parsley, believes America's founding mission is to destroy Islam, which he calls a "false religion." McCain sought the political support of right-wing preacher John Hagee, who believes Hurricane Katrina was God's punishment for gay rights and called the Catholic Church "the Antichrist" and a "false cult."⁹

10. He positions himself as pro-environment, but he scored a 0—yes, zero—from the League of Conservation Voters last year.¹⁰

John McCain is not who the Washington press corps make him out to be. Please help get the word out—forward this email to your personal network. And if you want us to keep you posted on MoveOn's work to get the truth out about John McCain, sign up here:

http://pol.moveon.org/mccaintruth/?id=12407-4820096-.bKR6v&t=232

Thank you for all you do.

–Eli, Justin, Noah, Laura, and the MoveOn.org Political Action Team
Saturday, April 5th, 2008

Sources:
1. "The Complicated History of John McCain and MLK Day," ABC News, April 3, 2008
http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalpunch/2008/04/the-complicated.html

"McCain Facts," ColorOfChange.org, April 4, 2008
http://colorofchange.org/mccain_facts/

2. "McCain More Hawkish Than Bush on Russia, China, Iraq," Bloomberg News, March 12, 2008
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aF28rSCtk0ZM&refer=us

"Buchanan: John McCain 'Will Make Cheney Look Like Gandhi,'" ThinkProgress, February 6, 2008
http://thinkprogress.org/2008/02/06/buchanan-gandhi-mccain/

3. "McCain Sides With Bush On Torture Again, Supports Veto Of Anti-Waterboarding Bill," ThinkProgress, February 20, 2008
http://thinkprogress.org/2008/02/20/mccain-torture-veto/

4. "McCain says Roe v. Wade should be overturned," MSNBC, February 18, 2007
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17222147/

5. "2007 Children's Defense Fund Action Council^® Nonpartisan Congressional Scorecard," February 2008
http://www.childrensdefense.org/site/PageServer?pagename=act_learn_scorecard2007

"McCain: Bush right to veto kids health insurance expansion," CNN, October 3, 2007
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/10/03/mccain.interview/

6. "Beer Executive Could Be Next First Lady," Associated Press, April 3, 2008
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5h-S1sWHm0tchtdMP5LcLywg5ZtMgD8VQ86M80

"McCain Says Bank Bailout Should End `Systemic Risk,'" Bloomberg News, March 25, 2008
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aHMiDVYaXZFM&refer=home

7. "Will McCain's Temper Be a Liability?," Associated Press, February 16, 2008
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=4301022

"Famed McCain temper is tamed," Boston Globe, January 27, 2008
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2008/01/27/famed_mccain_temper_is_tamed/

8. "Black Claims McCain's Campaign Is Above Lobbyist Influence: 'I Don't Know What The Criticism Is,'" ThinkProgress, April 2, 2008
http://thinkprogress.org/2008/04/02/mccain-black-lobbyist/

"McCain's Lobbyist Friends Rally 'Round Their Man," ABC News, January 29, 2008
http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=4210251

9. "McCain's Spiritual Guide: Destroy Islam," Mother Jones Magazine, March 12, 2008
http://www.motherjones.com/washington_dispatch/2008/03/john-mccain-rod-parsley-spiritual-guide.html

"Will McCain Specifically 'Repudiate' Hagee's Anti-Gay Comments?," ThinkProgress, March 12, 2008
http://thinkprogress.org/2008/03/12/mccain-hagee-anti-gay/

"McCain 'Very Honored' By Support Of Pastor Preaching 'End-Time Confrontation With Iran,'" ThinkProgress, February 28, 2008
http://thinkprogress.org/2008/02/28/hagee-mccain-endorsement/

10. "John McCain Gets a Zero Rating for His Environmental Record," Sierra Club, February 28, 2008
http://www.alternet.org/blogs/environment/77913/

http://political.moveon.org/donate/email.html?id=12407-4820096-.bKR6v&t=241

PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

be an organizing fellow

2008-04-06T17:04:00.000-07:00

Matt --

Kentucky's primary is coming up on Tuesday, May 20th, and it's crucial that supporters across the state stay focused on this important contest.

But I also want to let you know about an exciting project that we'll be kicking off in all 50 states this summer. It's called the Obama Organizing Fellowship.

When I was a young man, I was inspired by the Civil Rights Movement and the idea of people working at a grassroots level to bring about change.

I got my chance on the South Side of Chicago, as a community organizer, and it was the transformative experience of my career.

It allowed me to put my values to work and to see that real change comes not from the top-down, but from the bottom-up, when ordinary people come together around a common purpose.

The experience changed the course of my life -- and I want to share that kind of opportunity with you.

That's why we're introducing a program that's going to train a new generation of leaders -- not only to help us win this election, but to help strengthen our democracy in communities across the country.

If you apply and are selected, you'll be trained in the basic organizing principles that this campaign and our movement for change are built on. You will be assigned to a community where you'll organize supporters. Assignments will begin in June, and you'll be required to work a minimum of six weeks over the summer.

This program is designed to give you real world organizing experience that will have a concrete impact on this election.

Apply to be an Obama Organizing Fellow and put progressive values to work in the real world:

http://my.barackobama.com/fellows

If you can't take the time away from work or your family that's required for the fellowship program, you can still get involved.

Reach out to someone you know who may be interested in this program, and let them know we could use their help:
http://my.barackobama.com/fellowsinvite
House an Organizing Fellow -- If you have a spare room, you can help by offering housing to an Organizing Fellow near their training or near their eventual assignment. We haven't set locations for all of the trainings and assignments, but if you sign up, our staff will be in touch as the campaign grows:
http://my.barackobama.com/fellowshousing
Support this program by making a donation to this campaign:
https://donate.barackobama.com/fellowsdonate

Being a community organizer wasn't easy, but it was the most valuable education I ever received. It taught me that together, ordinary people can do extraordinary things.

Organizing changed my life, and I hope it changes yours.

Thanks,

Barack Obama

P.S. -- You don't have to wait until this summer to make a difference for our campaign.

Right now, supporters across Kentucky are volunteering to get as many Kentuckians as possible ready for Primary Day on May 20th.

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYvolunteer

april 4 mccain update

2008-04-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

[I would like to start this post by saying that according to Think Progress, McCain has a terrible track record on respecting Dr. King]
The McCain Update - April 4, 2008

John McCain was in Memphis today to commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., on the 40th anniversary of Dr. King's assassination. John McCain issued the following statement:

"Dr. King stirred the conscience of our nation to ensure that the self-evident truths of human freedom held true for all Americans. The power of his work and vision was not ended forty years ago in Memphis. Across the world, men and women are living Dr. King's dream as they strive to extend the blessings of human liberty and human rights to all. Today, we mark a tragic day in our nation's history while honoring the work of a man who was the voice for our nation's highest ideals."

To read the speech John McCain gave this morning about Dr. King and his enduring legacy, click here.

Service to America Tour

This week, John McCain embarked on a Service to America tour that tells the story of his life, from his proud family naval history starting in Meridian, Mississippi, to his current home in Arizona. You can follow the entire tour online at www.JohnMcCain.com/Service where there are videos, speeches and the latest news about the tour.

Where the McCain story begins - The family traditions of duty, honor and sacrifice shaped John McCain from an early age and guided his vision for the future. Meridian is the home of McCain Field named after John McCain's grandfather, an admiral in the U.S. Navy.

An excerpt from John McCain's speech in Meridian:

"A distant ancestor served on General Washington's staff, and it seems my ancestors fought in most wars in our nation's history. All were soldiers - both Henry and Bill McCain were West Pointers - until my grandfather broke family tradition and entered the Naval Academy in 1902. He was succeeded there by my father, then me, and then my son."

Click here to read more about day one, including John McCain's full speech, a blog report from the road and the day's video.

The Mark of a Man - John McCain describes "the mark of a man," the imprint left on his heart by a once-in-a-lifetime relationship with a teacher whose lessons shaped his ideas about right and wrong, compassion and forgiveness. Alexandria is the home of Episcopal High School where, John McCain attended school.

An excerpt from John McCain's speech in Alexandria:

"I doubt I will ever meet another person who had the impact on my life that my English teacher at Episcopal High School did. But I know there are many Americans who should teach and could influence children as beneficially as he did me. All children should have a teacher like I had, who they remember when they have children and grandchildren as one of the most fortunate relationships in their lives."

Click here to read more about day two, including John McCain's speech, blog report from the road and the day's video.

A Love of Country - Day three details John McCain's journey from a young man who arrived at Annapolis more focused on breaking rank than rising through the ranks, to a man who had in him, a love of country and a commitment to serving her ingrained in his heart for life. Annapolis is the home of the U.S. Naval Academy and John McCain prepared to serve his country in Pensacola after graduation.

An excerpt from John McCain's speech in Annapolis:

"I want every American to know that, despite its attendant risks and sacrifices, military service even for one or two enlistments or for a career is one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever have."

Click here to read more about day three, including John McCain's speech, blog report from the road and the day's video.

Character through Sacrifice - In the immediacy, chaos, destruction and shock of war, soldiers are bound by duty and military discipline to endure and overcome. Jacksonville was the home of John McCain before his deployment to Vietnam and following his return after 5 years as a POW.

An excerpt from John McCain's speech in Jacksonville:

"The defense of my country was important not only to the security of my countrymen and the blessings of life in America. It was important to the world: to the peace and stability of the world and to advancing in a hostile world those ideals we believe are universal. I was part of that great cause, a small and unessential part, but a part nonetheless."

Click here to read more about day four, including John McCain's speech, blog report from the road and the day's video.

Ride the Bus Update: Vivian and Elliott Palefsky from Savannah, Georgia, were the lucky winners of the Ride the Bus contest. The Palefskys joined John McCain and the Service to America tour in Jacksonville on Thursday. They rode on the Straight Talk Express and attended John McCain's speech at at Cecil Field. Click here to watch a video of their experience.

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.

Reuters: "Rambunctious" McCain

USA Today: McCain Campaigns, Urges Public Service

Reuters: McCain Takes a Walk Down Memory Lane

Bloomberg: McCain's 'Biography Tour'

Associated Press: McCain Touts Military Heritage

Meridian Star: Meridianite Remembers John McCain

Annapolis Capital: McCain to Tout Military Experience in Annapolis

Los Angeles Times: Life-Story Tour Will Show Voters The Real McCain

you're invited

2008-04-06T16:59:00.002-07:00

Please join us this Monday at the grand opening of our
Obama for America Lexington office.

Come meet our staff, get to know fellow supporters in the area, and learn how you can make a difference for Barack heading into the May 20th Kentucky primary.

Here are the details:

Lexington Office Grand Opening

Obama for America Lexington Office
120 East Reynolds Road, Suite 115
Lexington, KY

Monday, April 7th
5:30 p.m.

RSVP now:
http://ky.barackobama.com/Lexington

Hope to see you there!

Obama for America

40 years

2008-04-06T16:59:00.001-07:00

Dear MoveOn member,

40 years ago today, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and this nation lost one of the greatest leaders for peace and justice that we have ever known.

All morning, the staff here at MoveOn have been sending each other his quotes and speeches—words that, decades later, still inspire new generations of folks to action.

We were so moved that we really wanted to share some of them with you, as a celebration of Dr. King's legacy and a reminder that his words are as important today as they were 40 years ago.

* * *

"A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual doom."

* * *

"I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality... I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word."

* * *

"The time is always right to do what is right."

* * *

Here's a clip from one of Dr. King's most powerful speeches:

Thank you for all you do to bring justice and peace to this world.

–Adam G, Adam R, Aisling, Anna, Carrie, Daniel, Eli, Ilyse, Joan, Justin, Karin, Laura, Lenore, Marika, Matt, Nita, Noah, Patrick, Peter, Ray, Stephanie, Tanya, and Wes
MoveOn.org Political Action
Friday, April 4th, 2008

P.S. If you had trouble clicking on the video above, try this link:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=b80Bsw0UG-U

what I think about all this, part 2

2008-04-06T16:47:00.000-07:00

The Current Candidates!

John McCain: His emails are alright. He stresses his straight talk express, his experience, and puts news articles praising him (or at least not bashing him) on his emails. Good job.
But that doesn't change the fact that I've already compiled at least 10 flip flops and terrible positions he's taken, nullifying the straight talk. Also, in his latest email he asks for donations of $50 up to $2,300, which suggests to me that taking money from "regular folks" isn't so important to him. His donor page lets you do $25 or even lower, and all the other candidates asked for $25. Why doesn't McCain care to ask for the little guy's help?

Hillary Clinton: Her emails and the ones coming from her husband, daughter, and surrogates are alright. She tries to inspire, but I just can't shake the feeling from time to time that her emails fly in the face of what the news has said or what just plain happened. People calling on you to resign? Well, raising something like 2 million from an undisclosed number (at the time) of recipients shows the media who's boss, apparently. Also, being slightly biased (see The Punditburo's postings on the Clintons) I feel like her emails emphasize her as someone who's in it to win it, not because that's what everyone wants, but because she doesn't give up and that's why you should support her. The subtext to me is "I deserve it and dammit I'm not going to let the media or anyone else tell me otherwise".

Barack Obama: Much has been written about his emails, his webpage and his style. And I think his emails measure up to this - the small private dinner with Barack, constantly talking about how 'you' helped out, and sending emails asking for volunteers to go places. I don't get so much of that from Hillary or McCain. Hillary just has big fundraisers in my home state. Barack's people sent me an email to announce the opening of his campaign office in Lexington. I don't even know if Hillary has such a system. Perhaps it's microtargeting, but I feel like it's more than that.

So that's that. Back to posting regular emails.

What I Think About All This

2008-04-04T09:12:00.001-07:00

I've decided at this juncture in time to give my opinion on what I have observed in my reading of all this political mail, but infused with what I actually know about the candidates.
Also before I start, I apologize for not having more republican emails. I just signed up for the RNSC and RNCC in addition to the few email that the RNC sends out.

So here goes:
The Democratic Party & DSCC &DCCC: I've been getting emails from Howard Dean and crew for a while, and I have a lot of admiration for the man. His 50-state strategy helped gets Democrats the majority in the past congressional elections, and is getting ready to continue the gains.
The Democratic party has been pretty tame for the most part in the past 8 years, but one thing I've noticed from reading emails is that there seem to be more humane goals on our [my] agenda than the Republican party. Dean has sent out a lot more emails than whoever runs the RNC right now, and I think that he wants to keep voters and the party faithful up-to-date and involved. I've been on the RNC email list since 2004 and I could probably count on my hands the number of RNC emails I've gotten outside of election season 2004. Our argument summed up in one sentence: We have let the Bush administration get away with too much damage to our country for too long, it's our turn especially now that we have more solid plans than the Republicans.
And finally, I think that in terms of slurring the other side, the Democrats keep things focused - Bush and the neocons have (definitely) shredded our constitution, let our deficit balloon, and they keep lying to us about the war. These are legitimate political concerns and such, especially to a biased liberal "special interest" like me, who totally is giving bokus of cash to the party so that I can destroy Bush's super awesome happy fun time legacy that's only being protected by the righteous forces of the totally average American supporters of the....
Republican National Party: what few emails I get from them basically strike me as a little nastier than the Democratic ones. My side is referred to as "highly partisan", on a roll to take "complete control" of Washington (like that's not what the conservatives just had for the last 8 years, like compromise or party control shifting isn't a historical phenomenon), "liberal" like it's still a bad word, they say that MoveOn.org is a "radical protest group", and the like.
What the hell is this? A party or a bitchfest of people in power bitching that they can't have a one party state? I've been watching the RNC for a long time, and in the past 8 years they've served as the unofficial attack dog of the white house, sending Ken Mehlman out to, as a teacher from my old high school used to say, "weave a tapestry of bullshit." The RNC gets to be meaner than the president, and it gets to apologize when the president gets mean. It's a political win-win. It's a national win-lose, the American people losing, of course.

And MoveOn.org: I think they need to stop sending so many emails, and they seem to have chilled out a bit. They had a lot of goodwill in 2004 but I think a lot of folks are tired of getting outrage/information overflow. But in my years of watching politics, one thing is for sure: they genuinely care about the agenda they have, and they back up their emails with links to news stories. I like that. Most people will throw opinions at you like they're true. MoveOn.org throws opinions at you and gives you news stories so you can fact-check. nice.

And on to the Candidates:
first the failed ones.
Dennis Kucinich: He's my kind of liberal policy-wise but America doesn't like policy-wonks or short candidates, they want an asshole who can scare them or someone to calm them down. Honestly providing solutions isn't in the question, and advocating peace so much in his emails and still falling tells me that America isn't ready to realize how stupid war and violence is. Also, he was a congressman (low fundraising ability) and rankled moderates too much, I bet.

John Edwards: I thought he was going to keep up. I was wrong. To me, John's emails were great. When he started his OneCorps to get college kids going around fixing poor areas of America I thought it was great; when he decided to run for president I thought it was great. Too bad he hired Joe Trippi for his manager, because I think John probably was the closest to what America wants, it's just that he was abrasive about it and so he lost. Also, like Kucinich, most Americans haven't woken up and paid attention to policy in a while.

Ron Paul: I think he might still be trying to run, but he said he's not going to run as an independent, so he lost in my book. His emails were rather humble, basically a husband-and-wife operation, and they were plain text. Not very exciting, not energetic, and to boot Ron's a libertarian which most Americans disagree with.

Rudy Giuliani: I just looked back at his emails, and I think I can see into his campaign a bit. It's bland + scary scary 9-11 terrorists scary. He lost, and now I hope he goes away forever.

Mitt Romney: In real life, he's an asshole. In his emails, I guess they were alright. He talked about conservatives and conservatism a lot. whoop-dee-do he's just an opportunist in the end, and now apparently a party hack as he's been campaigning for McCain. Oh those republicans, stab each other in the back and when the RNC says "now" they turn around and smile fake smiles and start patting each other's backs without wincing. Party over ideals. It's the Republican way.

Mike Huckabee: Probably the most likeable Republican candidate. Recently came out and defended Jeremiah Wright. His emails were humble without being too humble, they had an energy, he had "Rangers" and chuck norris on his side. It was a "cool" conservative campaign, but in the end he still believes in evolution and wants to make this a christian nation. uh-oh.

And the last three observations will come later! I have class.

answer the call

2008-04-04T09:10:00.001-07:00

My Friends,

This week, I have embarked on a "Service to America" tour visiting various places that have had great importance in my life. I have always considered service to our country the greatest duty and highest honor, and I continue to encourage others to answer the call, as I believe it is everyone's duty to serve a cause greater than one's self.

Like so many American men and women today, I answered our nation's call to duty early in my life. From the time I entered the U.S. Naval Academy at the age of 17, through the years I spent in Vietnam, and during my tenu in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve our nation.

As your Republican candidate for president, I have an enormous sense of responsibility and duty. That's why I am not in the habit of making promises to my country that I do not intend to keep.

But I cannot win this election alone - I need your help.

Thank you,

John McCain

P.S. I have never forgotten what it means to be an American. Even during the toughest of times, when I was a POW in Vietnam, what sustained me during those 5 ½ years of captivity was my faith in God, faith in my country, and faith in my fellow prisoners. And I'll never forget that day, 35 years ago, when I and many other very happy prisoners of war were returned to freedom.

help barack in kentucky

2008-04-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Matt,

One of our best chances to make a difference for Barack in Kentucky is just two days away.

This Saturday, April 5th at 10:00 a.m., Democrats across the Commonwealth will gather at Precinct Conventions.

These conventions are a major step in the process that will assign Kentucky's delegates to the Democratic National Convention, and it's crucial that Obama supporters in every precinct attend.

Let us know you'll be attending your Precinct Convention this Saturday -- a local Obama organizer will be in touch to help make sure you are ready for Convention Day:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYprecinctconventions

The Precinct Convention process is easy and fun -- here's all you need to do:

Be at your general election polling location this Saturday, April 5th at 10:00 a.m. to participate in your Precinct Convention. If you don't know your polling location, you can look it up here.
Stand together with other Barack supporters. You can even wear an Obama pin or sticker so you'll be easier to identify.
Elect precinct leaders who support Barack. These leaders will serve as delegates to the County and Legislative District Conventions in the coming weeks and will help secure as many national delegates as possible for Barack.

This race is still very close, and after more than 40 contests, one thing is certain -- every state, every vote, and every delegate counts.

This Saturday's Precinct Conventions are an amazing chance to build on our momentum in Kentucky -- and help secure additional delegates for Barack.

Let us know you can attend:

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYprecinctconventions

Thank you,

Lauren

Lauren Kidwell
Kentucky Field Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- Whether or not you can make it on Saturday, you can be a big part of our team in Kentucky.

http://ky.barackobama.com/KYvolunteer

first lady laura bush

2008-04-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Matt,

I have an important personal favor to ask.

Last month, President Bush wrote you about the outstanding work the Republican National Committee (RNC) is doing to help our candidates at all levels build strong, effective campaigns.

The President also asked for your support in helping the RNC meet its budget goal of $27.8 million.

The RNC must reach this total to provide all our candidates the research, polling data, volunteer training, target voter lists, and direct financial assistance they need to win.

These campaign services are crucial to help GOP candidates counter the hundreds of millions of dollars left-wing special interests will spend to try to elect a liberal Democrat president and Congress. The Democrats' liberal allies have pledged to amass more than $500 million to defeat Republicans.

In 2000 and 2004, George faced a similar onslaught of attacks by special interest groups. The early resources you provided the RNC were vital to answering them and led to victory. We are committed to making certain the men and women representing our Party in 2008 get the same kind of help.

Republican victories this November begin with GOP grassroots leaders like you, Matt.

Please help keep our Party moving toward electing Republicans from the courthouse to the White House by making an urgent online contribution of $1,000, $500, $100, $50, or $25 to the RNC today to meet their fundraising target.

Your continued support is indispensable to our Party's success on Election Day and to sustaining George through this final year of his Presidency.

The President will fight to overcome every effort the Democrats make to push his agenda to the backburner. He's already won vital victories on the budget, the fight against terror, and on holding the line on taxes.

He has made it clear that his Administration will continue working to expand the economy, create more jobs, reduce the deficit, remain on the offensive against the enemies of freedom, and advance our country's security.

These tasks will not be easy. The highly partisan liberal Democrats leading the Congress have shown little desire to work with the President on solutions to the challenges facing America.

If Republicans are to keep our conservative agenda moving forward and stop the Democrats' bid for complete control of Washington, then you and I and every GOP grassroots leader must do everything we can to elect a new Republican president and Congress.

I hope our Party can count on you today to make a special 2008 online campaign contribution of $1,000, $500, $100, $50, or $25 to help the Republican National Committee reach its budget goal.

Matt, George and I are grateful for your special friendship throughout his campaigns and Presidency. As we continue to count on you, our candidates this year are relying on your enthusiastic support as well. Please help the RNC as generously as you can. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Laura Bush

deadline in indiana

2008-04-04T09:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Matt,

Indiana's primary is just six weeks away -- but there's only one week left before another crucial deadline.

Anyone who wants to support Barack in Indiana must register to vote by April 7th.

After more than 40 contests, we have won more votes, more delegates, and more than twice as many states as Senator Clinton. But the race is still incredibly close -- and Senator Clinton is targeting Indiana.

Can you come to Indiana before April 7th and help bring more voices into the political process?

http://in.barackobama.com/canvassIN

Indiana will play a pivotal role in securing Barack's lead.

Volunteers from nearby states traveled here last weekend to register voters for Barack. And we're going to be making one last big push to register voters this weekend, before the April 7th deadline.

This campaign has been powered by grassroots energy from the beginning, and now is the time to transform your enthusiasm for Barack into action.

Join fellow supporters in spreading this movement for change across Indiana:

http://in.barackobama.com/canvassIN

Thank you for your continued support,

Mitch

Mitch Stewart
Indiana State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- If you know anyone in Indiana who hasn't registered, take a moment to invite them to register so they can vote in the Indiana primary:

http://in.barackobama.com/INrtv

foreclosure crisis

2008-04-02T14:26:00.001-07:00

Dear matthew,

With millions of Americans losing their homes in the worst foreclosure crisis in memory, Senate Democrats are springing into action.

Republicans, on the other hand are starting another filibuster.

We have new legislation designed to rush federal assistance to people devastated by the mortgage crisis, but our opponents are once again standing in the way of progress. Now, I need your help to tell the Republicans that it's time to do the right thing.

We need to help hard-working American homeowners, who are watching their home values fall with every foreclosure - for many of them, that's their children's college tuition and their retirement savings disappearing before their eyes.

Click here to tell Senate Republicans to stop filibustering the Foreclosure Prevention Act. Too many American families are suffering and they need our help.

Republican economic failures caused this crisis in the first place. They did away with government oversight and removed any accountability from the private sector, and then they acted surprised when Countrywide became this year's Enron.

Now our economy is on the very brink of recession and foreclosure rates have nearly doubled in the last year. Over 2 million Americans are at risk for losing their home and losing their grip on the American Dream. We can't afford to sit around and wait for these issues to sort themselves out.

Democrats have a plan to address this crisis.

We would immediately authorize an additional $200 million for housing counselors who can help keep a half-million at-risk families in their homes.

Our plan would $4 billion to help local communities hardest hit by foreclosures buy back and rehab empty houses, so that property values in the surrounding neighborhoods don't plummet further.

We would also let homeowners who are forced into bankruptcy get their mortgages modified to reflect their lower home value, just like bankruptcy courts can modify loans for vacation homes and yachts.

Finally, Senate Democrats would amend the Truth in Lending Act to require simplified disclosures of interest rates and payments, helping working families avoid foreclosures in the future.

Republicans are planning to filibuster this vital legislation as early as 2:30 PM today, so we need to act fast. Join the DSCC today as we tell our opponents it's time to stand up for the middle class.

Click here to tell Senate Republicans to stop filibustering the Foreclosure Prevention Act. Too many American families are suffering and they need our help.

These foreclosures hurt all of us. They damage the economy in a downward spiral of falling home values and decreased tax bases.

Worse, they put our friends and neighbors out of their homes. It's not right, so Senate Democrats are standing up against it. Republicans are standing in our way.

Please take action today.

Sincerely,

Chuck Schumer

every vote should count

2008-04-02T14:24:00.001-07:00

Dear john,

It is a bedrock American principle: we are all equal in the voting booth. No matter where you were born or how much money you were born into, no matter the color of your skin or where you worship, your vote deserves to count.

But millions of people in Florida and Michigan who went to the polls aren't being heard. The delegates they elected won't be seated at the Democratic National Convention in Denver this August -- and that's just not fair to those voters.

The people of Michigan and Florida must have a voice in selecting our nominee for president. I have repeatedly called for seating their delegates.

Click here to join me in showing our support for seating Florida and Michigan delegates at the convention.

This is such an important principle, and I appreciate you standing up with me.

Sincerely,

Hillary Rodham Clinton

meet with bill

2008-04-02T14:23:00.003-07:00

loud and clear

2008-04-02T14:23:00.001-07:00

Dear john,

You have spoken loud and clear over the past few days with a tremendous show of support. Your actions are drowning out the voices calling for this race to come to an end, and I am truly touched that you are so committed to our campaign.

Now we have just a few hours left before our midnight fundraising deadline. This is our last chance to show our strength in the midst of the onslaught from our opponent who wants this race to end before millions of Americans have their say.

Together we are going to keep fighting and winning. But first we need to show that we have the resources to compete vigorously in the upcoming races, and I'm depending on you for that support.

I wish you and I could share some of the experiences I'm having on the campaign together. But I recorded a special video message for you on the trail recently, and I hope you'll take a look.

Click here to watch the video and make a contribution to show our strength by our critical midnight deadline.

We're just short of reaching our $3 million goal by the end of the month -- your contribution could be the one that puts us over the top.

Thank you so much for all you have done and continue to do -- on to victory!

Thank you for everything,

Hillary Rodham Clinton

last chance for the straight talk express

2008-04-02T14:20:00.001-07:00

All,

I wanted to send a quick reminder that today is the last day to make a contribution to be eligible to win a day on the Straight Talk Express with John McCain. If you can make a donation of $50 or more before midnight tonight, we'll also send you a commemorative Straight Talk Express ticket.

Our tour schedule has been recently updated and as the lucky winner, you and a friend can join John McCain in Jacksonville, Florida this Thursday, April 3rd, riding the bus and attending events including his speech at Cecil Field. We've had an overwhelming response from supporters during the last week and we find it extremely encouraging.

John McCain is the only candidate in this race who is ready to lead as commander in chief from day one, and it is our job to raise the resources necessary to help him win in November.

Please follow this link to make your contribution of $50 or more before the deadline of midnight tonight!

Thank you,
Rick

Rick Davis
Campaign Manager
John McCain 2008

quick and certain

2008-04-02T14:19:00.001-07:00

Dear matthew,

When it comes to winning Senate seats this fall it all boils down to this simple equation: we have an amazing opportunity to build a big majority, but we have to do everything right, every step of the way.

We have all the momentum. Just look at the map. Republicans have to defend their national failures in 21 states, and we only have to support 12 Democratic incumbents running for reelection.

The only way we're going to turn this historic opportunity into an overwhelming victory is if you help the DSCC meet our critical fundraising goal before midnight tonight. Right now, we're just $78,011 away from having everything we need before the deadline to execute our game plan. Now is not the time to give the Republican Swift Boat operation any opening to damage our campaigns.

Click here to make a secure contribution of $50, $75, or more. Give in the next 12 hours and a group of Democratic senators will match your contribution 2-to-1, instantly tripling your impact.

The DSCC knows how to win. Our strategy took back the Senate in 2006, and we're already running strong 2008 campaigns.

I know you're getting hammered with fundraising asks right now, but I want you to understand - your actions in the next 12 hours are critically important to our victories in November. We are in prime position in so many states across the country, but we need to execute our plan between now and Election Day.

For example, in Virginia, Mark Warner looks very strong in a southern state that once was a reliable Republican stronghold. Former New Hampshire Governor Jeanne Shaheen leads the latest polls and is ready to knock off the Republican incumbent.

We're gearing up to knock on hundreds of thousands of doors and make a mountain of phone calls between now and Election Day. We're also going to be responding - quick and certain - to every attack ad the Republicans throw at us.

Your support today is essential to winning an overwhelming Senate majority that will pass the Democratic agenda. I look at our numbers every day, and we can't do it if we don't meet our fundraising goals.

Click here to make a secure contribution of $50, $75, or more. Give in the next 12 hours and a group of Democratic senators will match your contribution 2-to-1, instantly tripling your impact.

I know you believe in our cause, but we need you to make a contribution now, in these crucial final hours before the deadline.

Sincerely,

J.B. Poersch

Republican Sen. Jim Inhofe is afraid of you

2008-04-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

Dear matt,

Last Thursday, DFA members nationwide took action and raised over $21,000 for Andrew Rice and his campaign to unseat Republican extremist, Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe. Now, Sen. Inhofe is running scared.

His campaign knows Sen. Inhofe will never win on the issues or by defending his extremist record and ridiculous statements. So instead, they attacked you, the so-called "far-left". Here is an excerpt from their fundraising message on Friday:

Just yesterday, a group founded by Howard Dean called Democracy for America (DFA) sent a fundraising email to liberal activists nationwide calling my friend, Senator Jim Inhofe, a "Republican Extremist." I hope that, like me, you laughed at this kind of over-the-top language, especially since it comes from a group that thinks America isn't even a democracy.

What's not funny is this far-left group's fundraising potential. They've timed their message just three days before the end of a critical quarter. With the help of DFA and many other liberal groups fundraising on his behalf, Senator Inhofe's likely opponent hopes to impress his liberal counterparts in Washington, New York, and San Francisco so he can attract even more out-of-state dollars.

That's right, we've got them worried. Now, let's double your impact. Contribute $20.08 to Andrew Rice right now.

www.actblue.com/page/supportandrew

According to Sen. Inhofe's campaign, we're "pouring tens of thousands of dollars into [Oklahoma] so [we] can distort Senator Inhofe's record. Outrageous lies are being spread and partisan negative attacks are being launched"

They go on and say they are worried that "liberal groups like Democracy for America may succeed in their efforts to demonize Senator Inhofe."

They're afraid of the power of millions of voices calling for change. They are afraid that Andrew Rice will win and deliver real results for Oklahoma and America. Sen. Inhofe is afraid of you. Contribute $20.08 today and remind him why.

www.actblue.com/page/supportandrew

Working together, we will elect a progressive Congress.

-Charles

Charles Chamberlain
Political Director

P.S. If you missed Jim's endorsement message from Thursday, I have included it below so you can learn more about both candidates in this race and why it is so important that we elect Andrew Rice in November.

let's show mccain what service means

2008-04-02T14:15:00.001-07:00

Dear matthew,

Want a reminder of why we still need more people in Congress who know what war really is, and the obligations we owe those who bore the burden of battle?

Just last week, Vice President Cheney was asked about the burden of the Iraq War on our military. His answer? George Bush bears the greatest burden of the war.

4,000 American troops who gave their lives? The Vice President summed it up: "They volunteered."

When I read the Vice President's comments, I was reminded of what Marine Corps 3-star General Gregory Newbold, the former Operations Director at the Pentagon, said about the war in Iraq:

"The commitment of our forces to this fight was done with a casualness and swagger that are the special province of those who have never had to execute these missions - or bury the results."

This is why our work isn't done changing the face of Congress. Dick Cheney doesn't get it, but he'll be gone in January - the question is, who will be coming here to speak up for the troops?

The rubber's hitting the road right now. I need you to help send more people to Washington who did serve, who did volunteer, and who took from that experience a personal commitment to provide for our nation's soldiers and a deep understanding of the magnitude of issues of war and peace.

Here are some more of those people -- so please do what you can to help them today:

http://www.actblue.com/page/strongermajority2

In the House, there's been no better or clearer voice on national security than Admiral Joe Sestak from Pennsylvania. The johnkerry.com community went to the mat to help send Admiral Sestak to Congress, and he has been as courageous in Congress as he was in the Navy. His record of standing up and being counted has landed him on the very top of the GOP target list, and he can use our help right now. A good fundraising quarter can signal great strength and put him on the offensive in 2008.

In New York, former Navy Commander Eric Massa is running against Randy Kuhl. Last time, Eric came within a whisker of beating Kuhl, losing by only 2 points. With a little extra effort this time, we can push Eric over the top. Eric's a former top aide to the Supreme Allied Commander in Europe. He understands military and foreign policy in his head and in his gut, and he's committed to a new course in Iraq and to making health care universal for all Americans.

In California, former Air Force helicopter pilot Charlie Brown is running to fill another GOP open seat vacated by a Republican one step ahead of scandal. Now he's facing two career politicians who didn't even live in his district. Charlie's son is active-duty Air Force and has served four tours in Iraq; believe me, Charlie doesn't need any lectures about who bears the burden in the military today. And Charlie isn't waiting to get to DC to start helping; he's donating 5% of everything he raises in this campaign to help veterans' service organizations around the country.

And we also have an incredible veteran running to break the Republican roadblock in the Senate. In Tennessee, my friend Bob Tuke is a Marine who served America in uniform, a Democratic soldier who has worked hard for others and, now, a candidate for the United States Senate. He headed up my efforts in Tennessee in 2004, and he's fought for Democrats as head of the TN Democratic Party. He served in Vietnam (yes, he volunteered), and now is answering the call to service once again. In January, I want to see Bob sworn in to the United States Senate.

So please donate what you can to help these great veterans turn our Congress into a force for change:

http://www.actblue.com/page/strongermajority2

It is profoundly wrong to think that fighting for your country overseas and fighting for your country's ideals at home are contradictory or even separate duties. They are, in fact, two sides of the very same patriotic coin. So this year, let's send more of these great Democratic patriots to Congress.

Thanks,
John Kerry

deadline tonight

2008-04-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

Matthew --

If you donate before midnight tonight, your donation will be part of our March financial report to the FEC.

Why is that important?

This will be the final report before the next series of primaries, and the results will be sized up and interpreted by everyone trying to gauge the strength of our campaign.

Thanks to you, we've won more delegates, more votes, and twice as many states as Senator Clinton.

But this race isn't over yet.

We're fighting a battle on two fronts. Senator McCain is attacking from one side, intent on suggesting that a third term of George Bush's policies is somehow the best path for our country. Meanwhile, Senator Clinton is attacking from the other, because her campaign has flatly stated that tearing us down is her only chance to win.

There are 10 primaries and caucuses remaining in states like Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Indiana. This two-front battle will require unprecedented resources, and we can't let up.

Your donation, before midnight tonight, will build our campaign for the remaining contests and send a message of strength to all those scrutinizing the campaign finance reports.

And don't forget -- tonight is also the last chance to become one of the donors eligible for a dinner with me we'll be having soon.

Will you make a donation of $25 now?

https://donate.barackobama.com/deadline

There's one thing we already know about the March fundraising results: Senator Clinton and Senator McCain have raised a significant portion of their money from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs.

We've never done that, and we never will.

Instead, we will continue to rely on more than a million individual donors who support this campaign by giving only what they can afford.

Change does not come from the top down -- it comes from the bottom up.

So rather than having expensive fundraising dinners to take contributions from Washington lobbyists, I'm hosting a different kind of dinner. If you are chosen from among the donors who give before midnight tonight, I'll get to hear your personal story and ideas about how we can solve America's biggest problems together.

Donate before 11:59 p.m. EDT tonight, and you could join me for dinner sometime soon:

https://donate.barackobama.com/deadline

The pundits are slowly realizing something about our political process that we've known from the beginning: people matter.

In unprecedented numbers, ordinary people are volunteering and donating to this campaign. They're taking true ownership in a way that has never happened before.

When we started this campaign over a year ago, the pundits and the political insiders didn't think it was possible to mobilize ordinary people to reject conventional thinking and fight for real change.

We have a chance to prove them wrong, and tonight is a critical deadline on this journey.

Help us finish this quarter strong:

https://donate.barackobama.com/deadline

Thank you for your support,

Barack

not big on quitting

2008-03-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

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

The Pattern

2008-03-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

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 Rodham Clinton

2008-03-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

darfur crisis: made in china

2008-03-30T11:48:00.001-07:00

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

Dear matt,

Seize this opportunity to 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

2008-03-30T11:46:00.001-07:00

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.

David Brooks: (McCain) Tested Over Time

National Review On Democrats' "100 Years War" Distortion

The Arizona Republic: McCain's Policy

Wall Street Journal: The No-Name Generation

Associated Press: McCain, Romney to Campaign Together

Washington Post: McCain Details His Foreign Policy

San Diego Union-Tribune: McCain Makes Visit to County

Wheeling (WV) News-Register: McCain Health Care Plan More Responsible

McCain Press Release: Nancy Reagan Endorses John McCain For President

Washington Post: The Next President's Plan...

San Francisco Chronicle: Nobody likes mortgage buyout but everyone supports it

one answer

2008-03-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

Dear matthew,

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

2008-03-30T11:42:00.002-07:00

Dear matt,

John 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

2008-03-30T11:42:00.001-07:00

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:

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

my friend tom udall

2008-03-30T11:40:00.002-07:00

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

2008-03-30T11:40:00.001-07:00

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 21^st 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