Anne Marie's Blog

Don't Be Scared This Halloween

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:59:28 EDT

When Robots Attack:

Fight the Robo-Calls by getting involved today!

Help Get Out The Vote

Make Calls From Home

Find Your Local Office

Fight The Smears

McCain's Counting on New Hampshire: New Hampshire is counting on YOU

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:22:38 EDT

New Hampshire is very much a battleground - it went to George Bush by 1% in 2000 and John Kerry by 1% in 2004.The polls are tight once again this year, but we have a very real opportunity to take away John McCain's hopes of winning New Hampshire by Getting Out The Vote and making sure every single supporter is going to the polls on Election Day.
We have come too far to let up now. If you don't have plans this weekend, or if you can rearrange them, we're asking again for you to come to New Hampshire.

We only have FOUR days left to elect Barack. We need to work as hard as we can this weekend.

Sign up to help with GOTV this weekend in New Hampshire. Every voter you talk to can make a real difference in this close race.If you don't have a ride, don't worry. We have a ride share website, NH.BarackObama.com/NHride that can help you find a ride with another supporter in your area.

Saturday: John Kerry Returns to Granite State

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:12:01 EDT

MANCHESTER-- With less than 3 days until Election Day, Sen. John Kerry will be on the Seacoast of New Hampshire this Saturday, November 1st to rally voters in support of Sen. Barack Obama, Jeanne Shaheen, and Democrats up and down the ticket.

Saturday, November 1st:

5:00 p.m. Unity Rally with Sen. John Kerry, Jeanne Shaheen, and Democratic candidates
Portsmouth Public Library- Levenson Community Room
175 Parrott Avenue, Portsmouth

NH Republican Leaves McCain Campaign to Support Obama

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:07:43 EDT

MANCHESTER - Fred Bramante, a member of McCain's New Hampshire Leadership Committee and a 2008 Alternate Delegate to the Republican National Convention today announced his support for Senator Obama's Campaign for Change.

Bramante, a Co-Chair of Gov. Mike Huckabee's presidential campaign and former Republican gubernatorial candidate, is a past Chairman and current member of the New Hampshire State Board of Education. His endorsement marks the first time nationally that a delegate or alternate delegate to the 2008 Republican National Convention has publicly announced their decision to support Sen. Obama.

"I believe that America is at a critical point and that how our nation addresses the issue of education redesign will hold the key to America's future," said Fred Bramante. "Barack Obama is committed to reforming our public schools instead of abandoning them. To my disappointment, Senator McCain continues to support the use of vouchers, a divisive approach to education which has gotten us nowhere for decades and will not ensure that our children will live their lives in another American Century."

On the call, the Obama-Biden Campaign also announced 20 other prominent New Hampshire Republicans who support Obama for president.

"As a lifelong Republican and father of two, I believe Obama is the best choice for the future of our country. He has my support because of his views on the economy, his concern for America's standing in the world, and his opposition to the war in Iraq," said Barry Schuster of Lebanon. "As the former Chair of the school board, I know improving education policy will be critical to the Senator because of his own experiences and the value he places on reforming the system."

"It has been the Democratic candidate, Barack Obama, who has demonstrated sound judgment in dealing with this economic crisis," said Pamela Diamantis of Greenland. "I am supporting Obama because he meets the criteria I want in a president, which is someone who is a strong leader who has conviction around his ideas and has the skills and desire to effectively communicate and build a consensus."

This group of 20 New Hampshire Republicans joins a long list of other prominent Republicans supporting Obama including Republican State Representative Sandy Kearns, former Republican State Senator Richard Russman, former Republican State Representative William Tsiros, and former Republican State Representative Liz Hager.

"American Stories and American Promises"

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:05:57 EDT

Last night, the Obama campaign aired a 30 min special about American stories - stories like yours, of families talking around the dinner table about the tough choices they are facing and their dreams for the future. This country was formed by stories like these - parents who moved to get a better schools for their children, men and women who have to go back to work after retirement to support their families, and young people seeking to better their future through work and education.

Barack's message tonight speaks to these American stories, and to the commitment that he makes to all Americans to address these concerns.

In case you missed any part of it, or want to watch it again, or share this with your friends - you can watch Barack's message here:

The election ends in five days, and we need your help to get out the vote in New Hampshire. You can find a volunteer opportunity near you right now.

American Stories and American Promises

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 20:59:54 EDT

Tonight, the Obama campaign aired a 30 min special about American stories - stories like yours, of families talking around the dinner table about the tough choices they are facing and their dreams for the future. This country was formed by stories like these - parents who moved to get a better schools for their children, men and women who have to go back to work after retirement to support their families, and young people seeking to better their future through work and education.

Barack's message tonight speaks to these American stories, and to the commitment that he makes to Granite Staters and all Americans to address these concerns.

In case you missed any part of it, or want to watch it again, or share this with your friends - you can watch Barack's message here:

The election ends in six days, and we need your help to get out the vote right here in New Hampshire. You can find a volunteer opportunity near you right now.

Ned Lamont Visits Manchester Office

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:26:46 EDT

This afternoon Ned Lamont, former Democratic candidate for Senate in CT against Joe Lieberman, stopped by the Campaign for Change office to show his support, thanking volunteers and making phone calls to help Get Out the Vote in the last week of the campaign.

In 2000 we were out hustled. In 2004 we were out muscled with the Swift Boat attacks. Now, with the power of our volunteer base, we won't be out hustled or out muscled this year.

Lamont, who endorsed Barack during the primaries, is the Chairman of Connecticut for Obama. His CT group has sent over a hundred volunteers to New Hampshire every weekend for months, and Lamont has been acting as a surrogate for the campaign at local Chamber of Commerce debates.

"Everyone has their eyes on New Hampshire," Lamont said.

Join Lamont's efforts: come to your nearest New Hampshire office to help Get Out the Vote.

Watch Ned Lamont's message of support from January here

Why Granite Staters are Voting for Obama

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:13:04 EDT

Tomorrow you have your chance to stand up and be heard when you head to the polls. But you're not just standing up for yourself, you're standing up for what you're passionate about:
issues list here
video here
why are you voting? send in your voting story link
get out the vote - nov rain link here

Madeleine Albright Addresses Veterans and Military Families on the Eve of "the Most Critical Election of our Time"

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:48:25 EDT

This guest blog was written by Josh Levine, Director of Veterans Outreach for the New Hampshire Campaign for Change

Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, a strong supporter of Senator Barack Obama, met with veterans and military families Tuesday at the Public Library in Portsmouth, NH. Dr. Albright, who teaches at Georgetown University, spoke about our current national security situation and the failure of President Bush's approach to foreign policy over the last eight years. During her remarks, she described what she saw as the major issues facing the next President of the United States, and why she believed Barack Obama was uniquely qualified, in knowledge, demeanor, confidence, and judgment to begin the tough work of solving these complex problems.

Following her remarks she fielded questions from the forty-person audience. She spoke about the need for the United States to begin disengagement in Iraq, both to force the Iraqi government to solve its lingering political issues and so that we can focus on Afghanistan, the real immediate threat to American security. She endorsed Senator Obama's plans for dealing with Iraq through a multilateral regional solution and for intensifying efforts to rebuild Afghanistan and help Pakistan to stabilize itself. Other topics included restoring America's standing in the world, dealing with Iran, the world financial crisis, rethinking the use of the National Guard in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the current and future roles of NATO.

On each issue, Dr. Albright described her views and discussed with the audience Barack Obama's deep thoughtfulness, clear thinking, and confidence to lead our country through these tough times. She said that not only is Senator Obama the right man to address our great concerns abroad, but that he "will talk to us, tell us the truth" so that we as a nation can work together to meet our challenges at home.

If you're tired of the same failed foreign policies of the past and are ready for America to have a better standing in the world, sign up to help Get Out The Vote now.

A closer look: John McCain's Record

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:44:11 EDT

Obama-Biden Campaign Releases New Web Tool Exposing McCain's Budget Hypocrisy

CHICAGO, IL - The Obama campaign today released a new web tool that reveals the truth about John McCain's promise to cut spending and balance the budget by 2013. The new site takes visitors step by step through McCain's proposed spending and proposed offsets, explaining exactly what it would take to make McCain's budget numbers add up.

See for yourself at TheRecord.BarackObama.com/Spending.

"John McCain likes to rail against new spending on the campaign trail, but what he doesn't tell voters is that his own spending proposals would expand the deficit by more than $300 billion each year - unless he makes drastic cuts to programs that American families depend on," said Obama-Biden Spokesman Bill Burton.

McCain has proposed more than $700 billion in new spending and tax cuts each year, but the offsets he's proposed - including taxing health insurance benefits, cutting Medicare and Medicaid, a spending freeze and eliminating earmarks - leave a gap of $310 billion every year.

As today's New York Times explains, McCain "has not specified" where the additional spending cuts would come from to close the gap in his budget. This new web tool lets visitors try out for themselves how to close McCain's $310 billion per year gap - including slashing defense spending by half, or cutting Medicare by 75 percent.

A Personal Plea to Canvass

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:51:10 EDT

This blog was written by Greg, a volunteer in Vermont.

Let's make history together. Can you imagine seeing McCain-Palin winning when you knew you could have done something about it? What's a day off work or an evening compared to THAT???

The single most important way to impact that is to meet face to face with people. Canvassing is the number one way to accomplish that. The campaign has said that collectively over 2,000 folks this past weekend went to New Hampshire. Studies have shown that for every 12 doors you simply knock on is one vote for your candidate. It's easy; just ask them what's important to them and it goes from there! A few minutes with an undecided voter makes all the difference in the world Here's the most important fact.

The last election in New Hampshire was decided by less than 3,000 votes. You may only end up speaking to 2 undecided voters. Even if you can impact just one person; collectively that comes to over 3,000 voters. That can make the difference in us winning New Hampshire.

The next biggest reason to canvass and make phone calls is to support Jeanne Shaheen for US Senate. This is the closet Senate election in the country. The Democrats are close to getting 60 Senate seats. That's why doing all we can to get Shaheen elected is SO VITAL! If you are passionate about OBAMA then he will need every single Senator on his side. That's why we need every single person.

If you want to make sure Obama-Biden is elected, then the biggest way you can affect the vote is to volunteer, doing a variety of tasks. I'm going ALL OUT for the Obama Get Out the Vote. It is so amazing to see so many folks from all over New England Canvassing! I am especially proud of all the Vermonters. Even the candidates from VT and NH and many of the staff get out to bang on doors.

Let's get ALL FIRED UP!!!

Are you fired up? Join Greg in New Hampshire for Get Out The Vote. Go all out and fight for every vote in New Hampshire.

Are YOU Ready to Get Out The Vote?

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:47:14 EDT

Change happens because the American people demand it. Because they rise up and insist on new leadership and new ideas, a new politics for a new time. - Sen. Barack Obama

Six days until the election - six days to join us in making history. This isn't the time to let up and rest on our laurels, it's the time to push forward to victory. This is what happens if we get complacent:

Don't trust the polls. We need to push through the finish line.

Sign up now to help us fight for every last vote.

Make calls with us, knock on doors with us, help out in your local office, bring food to volunteers and staff, house a volunteer, make calls from home, put Obama flyers around your town... whatever you can do our staff can help you with.

This is our time.

Senator Clinton Returns to the Granite State!

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:25:04 EDT

This blog was written by Colin at NH HQ

Today, Hillary Clinton returned to New Hampshire for the first time since her rally in Unity with Senator Obama back in June. She was welcomed with open arms by raucous crowds which greeted her in Manchester and Pelham. With the election only a week away, Hillary Clinton came to the Granite State to let everyone know why she is working so hard to elect Senator Obama to the White House.

Her first event was at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester. She was introduced by former Gov. Jeanne Shaheen who is running for Senate against incumbent John Sununu. To get our country moving on the right track, Senator Obama will need Jeanne Shaheen in the Senate, so help elect her and Barack Obama by working as hard as you can this last week.

Hillary spoke passionately about the issues affecting our country - lack of access to health care, high energy prices, failing schools, and the sense of malaise sweeping the country due to the financial crisis. Hillary told the Granite State that a vote for McCain is a vote for more of the same and four more years of George W. Bush. She closed by urging all of her supporters from the primary to go out and work and vote for the Democratic ticket up and down the ballot.

THURSDAY: GOV. HOWARD DEAN TO ENERGIZE AND ENCOURAGE GRANITE STATE STUDENTS TO GET OUT THE VOTE

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 20:36:54 EDT

MANCHESTER-- Former Vermont governor and current chairman of the Democratic National Committee Howard Dean will be in New Hampshire this Thursday, October 30th for a Rally for Change. With just over a week until New Hampshire voters head to the polls, Gov. Dean will stress the incredibly high stakes of the election for young voters and encourage them to vote. Dean will also discuss Sen. Obama's plan to create jobs and improve the state of our economy so that young Granite Staters can successfully enter the workforce upon graduation.

Earlier today, the Obama campaign in New Hampshire released a list of 50 New Hampshire student leaders who are not only supporting Sen. Obama's Campaign for Change, but are working on campuses to elect former Gov. Jeanne Shaheen, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter, and Congressman Paul Hodes. These student leaders have been and will continue to play an active role in the last days of the campaign energizing students to vote and have dedicated their time to engaging classmates in the electoral process. New Hampshire students can visit NH.BarackObama.com for more information on voting and how to get involved in these final days of the campaign.

Thursday, October 30th

11:45 a.m. Rally for Change with Gov. Howard Dean

UNH Durham- Granite State Room-- MUB

83 Main Street, Durham

Volunteer Spotlight: Paul's Journey for Change

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:41:41 EDT

This blog was written by Brendan O'Neill, our Claremont, NH Field Organizer

Five nights a week, Paul trickles down the Connecticut River from his home in Woodstock Vermont to call voters in the Claremont Campaign for Change office, brightening up what can too often be described as dreary and decrepit Pleasant St. With a coffee in hand and a chuckle in his belly, Paul often spends 3-4 hours plugging away in his favorite spot with his favorite phone, swooning undecided voters and greeting the occasional McCain supporter with "that's really too bad, have a nice evening."

Current estimates place Paul as having personally made over 3,000 calls in the last five or six weeks, easily putting him in the top three among individual callers from the Claremont office. Despite his Vermont residency, he has entrenched himself in local New Hampshire politics by advocating for both State Senate candidate Jay Phinizy and U.S. Senate candidate Jeanne Shaheen. A former advertisement guru, Paul's boisterous telephone persona and intermittent anecdotes make him an office favorite among staff and fellow volunteers. Because of his dedication, consistency, and experience volunteering in past GOTV efforts, Paul will be serving as the Ride-to-the-Polls captain on Election Day.

Thank you Paul!

Can you join us in New Hampshire for Get Out the Vote? If you have any time you could help, don't wait: sign up today.

Field Blog #17: Dover Office: Weekends with Larry, Brigit, and Debbie

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:54:28 EDT

This blog was written by Field Organizer Butch Frey

Saturdays are a hoppin' time in the Dover office! With canvassers arriving both from out-of-state and in-state, we are fired up and ready to go! But both the organizers and the volunteers rely on a few special people that come in every weekend and help us orchestrate a smooth canvass. The "Dover Weekend Team" consists of three all-star regulars, Larry from Dover, Debbie from Dover, and Brigit from Rollinsford.

These great people provide the backbone for the great canvasses out of the Dover office.

Larry from Dover

Larry from Dover begins his Saturdays by arriving early to set up for volunteers, and ends his Sunday with volunteer calls and data entry with his daughter Zoe. Larry hasn't worked for a candidate in years but believes this election is special. He has said of this election, "This is clearly the most important election of my lifetime. I just don't know if I can do anything else on the weekends...this is too important, and we just simply can't let this oppourtunity slip away."

Brigit from Rollinsford

Brigit from Rollinsford works to recruit volunteers during the week, and then greets them on the weekend. With a jovial personality and kind smile, she works with people's schedules and helps deal with any issues that come up. She always is there to offer a sandwich or a good joke when volunteers or staff need a little nourishment.

The weekend team is completed by Debbie from Dover who answers questions and concerns from volunteers after they return from pounding the pavement. She supports Senator Obama because she believes they offer real change to the partisan politics of Washington, and will provide help to the middle class.

The Dover office runs on the help of great volunteers that believe in our grassroots movement for change. Come out and visit the Dover Weekend Team in action and help change the world!

Dover Campaign for Change

11 Chestnut St.

Dover, NH 03820

(603) 742-5416

Field Blog #16: Sandwich Fair in Central NH

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:15:09 EDT

Earlier this month, local Democrats flooded Central New Hampshire for the annual Sandwich Fair. Shaw, a local teacher and Obama fan, reported that foot traffic past the Democratic booth was awesome. According to Shaw, the Sandwich Democrats had wonderful support and enthusiasm from a crowd that some estimated at 10,000 people for the weekend. Folks loaded up on their favorite Obama gear, picked up information on volunteer opportunities with their Local Field Office, and educated themselves on all of the down-ticket Democratic candidates.

Shaw explained that the Sandwich Fair is a traditional agricultural fair that has been running annually for well over a century. It features an old fashion midway with rides as well as events like tractor pulls, oxen twitching, and show horse jumping. Dozens of farm animals are carefully groomed and judged- you'll find everything from chickens and rabbits, to cattle and llamas, to goats and ducks. As with most fairs, food is a big draw too. Blue ribbons are awarded for the best apple pie, top blueberry jam, biggest pumpkin, and most beautiful quilt - just to name a few.

Although Sandwich sits in one of the more rural sections of the state, local residents can volunteer at one of the four Obama Field Offices up north. Whether you only have an hour on a weeknight for some data entry or a couple hours for neighborhood canvassing or phone calls, we need you. With Marty in Plymouth, Scott and Ashley in Conway, Tim and Joe in Laconia, and Kate in Berlin, there's no shortage of field organizers to get you connected in the North Country. With eight days left to connect with undecided voters in Northern New Hampshire, the time to act is now. Your voice is too important. We need you. Join us. Sign-up to join New Hampshire for Obama

Come visit Marty, Scott, Ashely, Tim, Joe, and Kate at:

Plymouth
42 Main St. Apt. E
Plymouth, NH 03264
(603) 438-2762

Conway
85 Main St.
Conway, NH 03818
(603) 447-3330

Laconia
54 Canal St.
Laconia, NH 03246
(603) 528-2931

Berlin
225 Main St.
Berlin, NH 03570
(603) 752-2715

If you have any questions please call or email NH@BarackObama.com.

This guest Field blog was written by Martin Schubert, Field Organizer in Plymouth.

Field Blog #15: Kendal Seniors for Obama

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:09:12 EDT

This blog was written by Jennifer, a volunteer from the Upper Valley for Obama Team

Nestled in the beautiful landscape of Hanover, NH, the Kendal retirement community is renowned for its active, engaged senior residents. A dedicated group of Obama campaign volunteers from Kendal demonstrates why this reputation is well-deserved.

For several weeks now, Kendal residents have been holding their own phone bank for Obama out of their residences, with Edie taking the lead in organizing their efforts. The dedicated group has proven to be quite a force in reaching out to New Hampshire voters throughout the state, smashing their own calling records and earning a special trophy from campaign staff (seen below).

How do they do it? Each morning, Edie's pie basket (also seen below) appears with fresh calling packets for volunteers to pick up. By evening, packets are returned to the pie basket to be picked up by staffers for data entry. The next day, the process starts again, and hundreds of calls are made.

Hats off to our great team of Kendal volunteers!

If you'd like to get active and help out the efforts of our great Kendal team on the phones, find your local field office and get involved. Get Out The Vote starts tomorrow, so we need your help now more than ever. If you can't make it in to your local office, or if you have limited time to volunteer, think about using Neighbor to Neighbor, our online call tool, to make calls whenever it is convenient for you.

Field Blog #17 Pearl at the Seacoast

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:49:36 EDT

This blog was written by Field Organizer Stephen Goepfert

The Seacoast region is proud to spotlight one of our best volunteers, Pearl. In all of her 87 years, Pearl admits that she has not seen a campaign like this before. The organization in Hampton and the excitement generated by the primary inspired Pearl to take an active role with the Obama campaign. She volunteers every Thursday night and reaches out to neighbors for hours making phone calls.

Ever since the beginning of the primary, Pearl has dedicated herself to advancing Democratic candidates in any way she can. You can see Pearl out on the corner waving signs, in the office making phone calls, or signing up for multiple Get Out the Vote shifts. When asked whether or not she has enough time to do all these things, Pearl replies "Busy is the way to be."

Pearl could not sit home this election. She truly believes that Senator Obama has great presidential material. Too often, Pearl says, politicians say that this is the way things have to be. However, Pearl believes that Barack sees thing as they should be. This election is the most important of her lifetime - and this is from someone who's seen America at many crossroads.

Recently at our GOTV training, Pearl impressed everyone by signing up for 7 shifts. Her contributions to this campaign are proof that you are never too old to get involved.

Field Blog #14: Answer the Call in Nashua

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 15:28:05 EDT

This blog was written by Field Organizer Gerad Teague

I answered the phone a couple of weeks ago when Jennifer was on the other end of the line. The other field organizers and I usually switch off picking up the phone--I had just a 1 out of 3 chance of getting there. I'm a lucky guy.

Jennifer told me that she would like to come to New Hampshire and that she thought we had a tough race going up here. She said that she'd like to be a part of our team here in the office. After completing Camp Obama, Jennifer needed a place put her skills to work. She'd learned our precious computer system, she'd read up on our organizing philosophy, and she'd blocked out her time to do the hard field work we need to do to get Barack and Joe into office. I reassured her that we could use her here.

Now I can't say for sure, but it seemed that after Jennifer arrived at our office the temperature rose a few degrees, our musty carpets smelled just a bit better, and it seemed like I had gotten a bit more sleep. All of a sudden our call sheets were organized. We didn't have to hunt down the rubber bands, because they were in our supply cabinet where they should be. The volunteers coming into the office were suddenly treated to a bright new face ready to help them with their calls and answer their questions.

I'm so glad to have such a fantastic addition to our team here in Nashua. There is so much that needs to get done in the next two weeks, we'll need Jennifer so much to make sure it gets done.

That said, Jennifer, however capable, won't be able to win New Hampshire by herself. She'll need all of your support. Come join her in the Nashua office, and help us bring change to Washington.

Three More Granite State Newspapers Endorse Obama Yesterday

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 15:06:28 EDT

The Valley News, The Keene Sentinel, and the Portsmouth Herald all endorsed Barack Obama yesterday, adding to New Hampshire's strong backing of Senator Obama and the endorsements of the Cabinent Press, the Concord Monitor and the Nashua Telegraph last week.

To read the full text of all endorsements, click here.

Excerpt from the Valley News:

As we see it, one of the two big questions this year is, whatever happened to John McCain? That the proud Republican maverick of previous years now bears the W. brand -- tax cuts for the rich, unbridled enthusiasm for offshore oil drilling and so on -- is puzzling to many of his longtime admirers (including members of this editorial board), as is his abandonment of sensible immigration reform.

Excerpt from the Keene Sentinel:

We can decide to continue down the path we have all been on since 2000, with a new leader who may be somewhat more broadminded and rational than his predecessor. Or, better yet, we can opt for a change in direction, with an articulate leader who offers imaginative new alternatives to failed policies at home and a reversal of the United States' growing isolation on the world stage.
The election of Barack Obama as president would constitute a fresh departure for our country, at a time when our country sorely needs a fresh departure.

Excerpt from the Portsmouth Herald:

We have no doubt about where the political direction of the country should go. It's a simple question of going backward or taking a major leap forward. When Americans cast their ballots on Nov. 4, Obama is our clear and convincing choice for president to lead the country come January.
During the lengthy campaign, Obama has unleashed a call to action for the entire country through his inspiring rhetoric and his ability to draw millions of new voters, young and old and across the political spectrum, into the ranks of those demanding an entirely new approach to governance.

Check out the full text of these endorsements, and three other major endorsements from the Cabinet Press, the Nashua Telegraph and the Concord Monitor here.

Announcing a new design of Neighbor to Neighbor

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 18:19:26 EDT

Chris Hughes, Director of Online Organizing, just wrote this blog post about our brand new redesign of Neighbor to Neighbor, a tool that thousands of supporters are using right now to call and canvass Granite Staters.

Check out the exciting changes, and join us now.

For two months now, tens of thousands of people have been making phonecalls from the comfort of their own homes, and knocking on doors in their own communities.
With 12 days to go, we’ve upgraded our calling and walking tool to make it easier to use.
Some of the things that we’ve changed:

•   New look and feel that is consistent with the rest of MyBO and BarackObama.com
•   The call script window is wider and easier to read. The Save button is now at the top, making it easier to move from one voter to the next. Less scrolling means more time calling.
•   Easier to report contacts after having a conversation
You’ll notice that no functionality has been removed. We’ve tried as hard as possible to avoid making any dramatic changes with only a few days to go before the election. It’s simply been our goal to make the system more intuitive and easier to use.
Let's get started calling!

Granite State Sportsmen for Obama Fired Up for Change

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 18:16:43 EDT

MANCHESTER, NH - In the midst of hunting season, Sportsmen and women across New Hampshire have joined together to announce their support for Senator Barack Obama for president. This announcement comes as hunters throughout the Granite State carry on the tradition of hunting from generation to generation during Youth Hunt Weekend for Deer, which is October 25-26 across the state.

"Growing up in New Hampshire, most of us spent our time outdoors hunting, fishing or hiking. These traditions were passed down from mothers and fathers to their children. As a hunter, I take pride in the outdoors and want a president who will honor that tradition while conserving our land and waterways," said Richard Moquin, statewide Chair for Sportsmen and Sportswomen for Obama. "Senator Obama will not only protect our Second Amendment rights, but preserve our wildlife so future generations can continue this tradition. I know he'll be a true friend of the sportsmen."

"I believe that hunting, fishing and spending time in the outdoors is a valuable experience for all generations - young and old," said Clinton King of Berlin. "An Obama administration will protect those rights, allowing national lands to stay open and continuing to allow gun owners to use our firearms, especially for hunting. As president, Obama will stand up for conservation, preserving national forest lands and ensuring that our wildlife is protected."

The New Hampshire Sportsmen and women for Obama is made up of one Statewide Chair and co-Chairs in each county of the state. They know that Senator Obama will stand up for their individual Second Amendment right to pursue their hunting traditions and ensure the future of hunting and fishing by expanding access to private hunting and fishing areas. The steering committee includes former New Hampshire Fish and Game Department officials, hunters, fishers and conservationists, as well members of the National Rifle Association.

As President, Barack Obama will continue to stand up for sportsmen and sportswomen by:

Protecting the rights of hunters and other law-abiding Americans to purchase, own and use guns.
Improving access by providing financial incentives to private land owners who voluntarily open their land to hunting and fishing.
Advocating funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which provides needed resources to state agencies to conserve important wildlife habitat.
Recognizing that global warming is real, is happening now, and poses a real threat to America's fish, wildlife, and the future of hunting and fishing, and providing real leadership to combat climate change.
Supporting proposals endorsed by dozens of national hunting and fishing organizations to devote billions of dollars annually to state game and fish agencies and federal land management agencies to help them ensure that fish and wildlife survive the coming impacts of climate change.
Ensuring that Farm Bill conservation programs are funded to provide maximum benefit to fish and wildlife.
Supporting state efforts to educate youth in order to maintain hunting and fishing traditions.

Danzig, Former Sec. of the Navy, visits Obama Seacoast Office

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 13:59:32 EDT

This post was written by Colin Milligan at NH HQ

Richard Danzig, former Secretary of the Navy under President Clinton, visited our Portsmouth Campaign for Change office to meet and talk with Seacoast veterans. Danzig, a strong supporter of Senator Obama, was in town for the commissioning of the USS New Hampshire.

Danzig spoke to veterans and volunteers in the office about the connection between working on a political campaign and serving in the military. He said that both offer a chance for two people who have never met each other to have an instant bond and sense of comrade.

Danzig, who was in Ohio and Virginia recently, said that New Hampshire is one of the most important states in this election. With his words of encouragement, the volunteers and veterans headed off to knock on doors and make phone calls. He encouraged everyone to sign up for a GOTV shift.

If you're a veteran for Obama, please visit our website for NH Veterans to sign up to help!

Actor Jeffrey Wright: We're all in this together

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 13:46:20 EDT

Over two hundred people registered this morning at the Manchester City Hall, as a diverse crowd of gathered to chat, dance, listen to music, and hear Actor Jeffrey Wright ("W", Syriana, Casino Royale) speak about coming together to create one nation seeking change.

I look around me, wherever I go at Obama events, and I see the complexity of America represented in the faces of the people around me at these events. You know, a lot of what's happened in the last few months has been to narrow the vision of America down to Hockey Moms and Joe Six Packs and Joe the Plumbers. But America's more complicated than that. There's Jose the Barber. There's basketball big brothers. We're all here together and its we who make this country great.

Wight recently played Colin Powell in the movie "W", and spoke about Powell's endorsement of Barack last Sunday.

[Powell] talked about how the strength of this country is in our diversity, the strength of this country is in its complexity. Colin Powell himself was born from immigrant parents from Jamaica. That's the story of our country. And when we start to exclude, at such critical times as these in terms of America's place on the global stage, when we seek to exclude whole sections of the population as we try to face these challenges we undermine our capacity to really overcome them.

Although today marks the last day to early register, if you live in New Hampshire you can still register and vote at the polls on Election Day.

"Getting people to register the day of is a great opportunity," Wright said. "You've got to find these pockets, these pools of people to register."

Can you join us to Get Out The Vote this week? We only have ten days to remind people they can register on the day of, and participate in this election. Let's go out and win New Hampshire and change this country.

Eday Prime TIme

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:12:29 EDT

Before you've even had your first cup of coffee, here is what you can do to help us Get Out The Vote today:

Find Your Polling Location

Are you a first time voter, recently moved or haven't voted in a few years? Make sure you know where to vote on Election Day - its easy. Check out VoteForChange.com right here to find out where your polling location is, or just double check. Don't wait - make sure you're ready today.

We'll even give you directions!

Do you need a ride to the polls? Sign up here or call 1-888-NH-CHANGE

Find An Event Near You

GOPer and Former MA Governor Endorses Obama

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 19:01:23 EDT

MANCHESTER - The Obama Campaign today announced that Republican William Weld, former Massachusetts governor, endorsed Senator Barack Obama for President. In his endorsement, Weld cited Senator Obama's steady leadership, good judgment, and ability to unify Democrats, Republicans and independents to bring the change we need to Washington, D.C.

"Senator Obama is a once in a lifetime candidate who will transform our politics and restore America's standing in the world," Governor Weld said. "We need a President who will lead based on our common values and Senator Obama demonstrates an ability to unite and inspire. Throughout this campaign I've watched his steady leadership through trying times and I'm confident he is the best candidate to move our country forward."

Weld served as the governor of Massachusetts from 1991 to 1997. Prior to his term as governor, Weld was appointed U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts by President Reagan and later selected to head the Criminal Division of the Justice Department in Washington, D.C.

"We are proud to receive Governor Weld's endorsement as we grow our grassroots coalition of Democrats, Republicans, and independents to change politics in Washington, D.C.," New Hampshire Communications Director Sandra Abrevaya said, "Senator Obama has earned the support of Republicans nationwide and here in New Hampshire because he has spent his entire life bringing people together to solve the tough challenges Americans face."

Yesterday in New Hampshire, the Obama Campaign announced former Republican State Senator Richard Russman, former Republican State Representative Sandy Kearns, and former Republican State Representative William Tsiros joined other Republicans statewide in their endorsement of Barack Obama.

Go to Republicans for Obama to read more about Republicans backing Obama. Additional Republican endorsers include: former Secretary of State Colin Powell, former GOP Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson, former U.S. Congressman Jim Leach, and former U.S. Senator Lincoln Chaffee.

Barack Obama - El Sueño Americano

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:16:20 EDT

Yesterday the Obama campaign released a 30 second television ad in Spanish. Barack speaks about the critical importance of voting, for your future and your family's future.

Watch the ad, and share it with a friend.

If you know Latinos who would like to get involved in the campaign for change in New Hampshire, or who need more information, please visit our New Hampshire Latinos website: my.barackobama.com/nhlatinos

We need your help - 11 days left to step up.

Barack Needs You in New Hampshire

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:30:52 EDT

Dear Anne Marie,

When I endorsed Barack last January, I was endorsing a candidate with the power to transform America.

Now it's less than two weeks until Election Day, and this movement has expanded beyond anything we could have imagined.

Hundreds of thousands have volunteered, and millions have registered to vote for the first time. Now we need to make sure that this incredible enthusiasm translates into votes.

I am reaching out to you today to ask you to do still more to change this country. The most important work over the next 11 days will be done by voters like you knocking on doors and reaching out to undecided voters in battleground states.

That's why I'm asking you to take the short trip to New Hampshire and make a difference in the final days of this campaign. To double your impact, bring a friend.

Our neighbor is once again a key battleground state. In 2000, Al Gore lost New Hampshire by just 7,000 votes. Four years later, John Kerry won by just 9,000.

It's going to be incredibly close this year, too. That's why I need you to help Barack.

The last few days before Election Day, November 4th, are the most crucial of the campaign. Barack is counting on supporters like us to make our get out the vote efforts as effective as possible.

Whatever you can do and however much time you can give, there's a job for you. We need people to canvass, make phone calls, help with visibility, and drive voters to the polls.

And given the rising negativity and attacks coming from the McCain campaign, it's more important than ever that New Hampshire voters learn more about Barack -- who he is and how he'll bring about the change we need.

Sign up now to spend a day in New Hampshire and volunteer in this crucial battleground:

http://my.barackobama.com/cometoNH

This campaign is about turning our backs on the politics of division, and returning to a politics that embraces hope and creates real change in our country and in our world.

Together I know we can help elect Barack Obama and bring the change we need.

Sincerely,

Senator Edward M. Kennedy

P.S. -- The best way to help out in New Hampshire is to call the Obama state hotline at (603) 657-4494 to schedule your trip and connect with other supporters in your area who are headed to New Hampshire. Check out NH.BarackObama.com if you have any questions.

Join Actor Jeffrey Wright in NH Tomorrow

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:49:37 EDT

Jeffrey Wright, an actor in films such as "W", Casino Royale, Syriana, Cadillac Records and The Manchurian Candidate, will be in Nashua and Manchester this Saturday, meeting Granite Staters to hear about the issues on their mind this election and speak about his support of Sen. Obama.

Wright is no stranger to politics. A native of our nation's capitol, Washington, D.C., Wright studied Political Science as well as acting while attending Amherst College.

Wright will encourage all eligible voters to participate in this historic election and bring about the change we need by voting for Barack Obama and Democrats up and down the ticket.

This is a great opportunity to get your friends who are undecided or unregistered involved in the political process. If you have time between knocking on doors and calling your neighbors this weekend, join us for a block party in Manchester or a meet and greet in Nashua this Saturday.

Join Actor Jeffrey Wright in Manchester
Block Party at City Hall Plaza
Food, Music, Canvassing and Fun
Starts at 10 a.m. RSVP at My.BarackObama.com

Join Actor Jeffrey Wright in Nashua
Meet and Greet Party at the Adult Learning Center, 4 Lake St.
Food, Music, Canvassing and Fun
Starts at 10 a.m. RSVP at My.BarackObama.com

Actor Jeffrey Wright in NH this Saturday

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 08:05:05 EDT

Jeffrey Wright, an actor in films such as "W", Casino Royale, Syriana, Cadillac Records and The Manchurian Candidate, will be in Nashua and Manchester this Saturday, meeting Granite Staters to hear about the issues on their mind this election and speak about his support of Sen. Obama.

Wright is no stranger to politics. A native of our nation's capitol, Washington, D.C., Wright studied Political Science as well as acting while attending Amherst College.

Wright will encourage all eligible voters to participate in this historic election and bring about the change we need by voting for Barack Obama and Democrats up and down the ticket.

This is a great opportunity to get your friends who are undecided or unregistered involved in the political process. If you have time between knocking on doors and calling your neighbors this weekend, join us for a block party in Manchester or a meet and greet in Nashua this Saturday.

Prominent Granite State Republicans Supporting Obama

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:36:17 EDT

McCain's Negative Campaign Tactics, Tax Policy, Economic Stances and War in Iraq Among the Many Reasons for the Move to Obama

MANCHESTER-- Citing McCain's negative attacks as well as his stances with Bush on the economy and the war, prominent New Hampshire Republicans have come out in support of Barack Obama's Campaign for Change.

"I think that Obama offers a better chance for change in the coming years. The current administration has done a disservice to the country - not just on economic issues but also on environmental issues," said former Republican State Senator Richard Russman. "I believe Senator Obama and Joe Biden will be much more interested in clear air, clear water and global warming issues, far better than Senator McCain and particularly Governor Palin."

"I'll be supporting Obama in November even though I have been a long-time Republican. I've been really turned off by McCain's negative attacks this year," said former Republican State Representative Sandy Kearns. "I rode the Straight Talk Express in New Hampshire with John McCain eight years ago, but when he launched his campaign this time around, I realized he had lost some of his maverick tendencies. The people of New Hampshire are the real mavericks. They know the government should be there for the people who need it, but we like to keep it out of our doctor's offices and bedrooms."

"As a long time Republican elected official in the state of New Hampshire, I think Obama has the best solution for the current economic crisis and he has the ability to really improve our healthcare system. These are critical issues in our state and for me personally," said former Republican State Representative William Tsiros. "McCain is offering the same policies of the current President who I completely disagree with when it comes to the war in Iraq and his economic policies. As a small business owner I can't afford another four years of Bush. I have been telling my fellow Republicans that it is time to wake up."

Learn More About the McCain of 2008

MANCHESTER, NH - Today, former U.S. Senator Lincoln Chafee and Marge Bonneville, from Tilton, New Hampshire, who voted for McCain in 2000, will hold a press conference to discuss what is at stake for Granite Staters in this election. Marge Bonneville was featured in a New Hampshire web ad, released by the Obama campaign this week, that highlighted individuals who voted for McCain in 2000 and are now supporting Senator Obama.

Here are the details:

Press Conference with Former U.S. Sentator Lincoln Chafee and Marge Bonneville of Tilton, NH

Legislative Office Building

33 North State Street, Concord NH

11:45 am TODAY

Slim Margins in NH: Be the Change in 2008

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:12:28 EDT

Every election, we are reminded just how important New Hampshire is to the national landscape. In 2000, Al Gore lost our state by just 7,000 votes. Four years later, John Kerry won by just 9,000.

It's going to be incredibly close this year, too. Barack needs your help today.

Hundreds of thousands have volunteered, and millions have registered to vote for the first time. Now we need to make sure that this incredible enthusiasm translates into votes.

With just two weeks until Election Day, we need you to look at your calendar and block off time to volunteer for the campaign. There are tens of thousands of voters who have not heard directly from this campaign and we must reach them before polls close on Tuesday, November 4th.

We need supporters like you out there doing the kind of work that wins elections -- knocking on doors and reaching out to undecided voters in person.

Sign up now to volunteer to make a difference in the final push, and bring a friend with you to double your impact.

These last few days before Election Day, November 4th, are the most crucial of the election. Barack is counting on supporters like you to make our get out the vote efforts as effective as possible.

Whatever you can do and however much time you can give, there's a job for everyone. We need people to canvass, make phone calls, help with visibility, and drive voters to the polls.

And given the rising negativity and attacks coming from the McCain campaign, it's more important than ever that voters learn more about Barack -- who he is and how he'll bring about the change we need.

Sign up now to volunteer and help Barack win New Hampshire:

nh.barackobama.com/gotvnh

Together we can help elect Barack and bring about the change we need.

Thanks for all that you do,

Katina

Katina Tsongas

Field Director

New Hampshire Campaign for Change

GOTV is Right Around the Corner

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 18:11:05 EDT

When the leaves start to change colors up here in Dover, New Hampshire, the residents begin to expect two things: tourists for "leaf peeping" season and an election to be just around the corner.

The Granite Staters are fired up and ready to go as they came out for a great training Monday night to learn how to get out the vote for Barack Obama. About 130 longtime veteran activists and volunteers working for a campaign the first time brought their calendars and fit as many volunteer shifts in as possible to help Barack become the 44th President of the United States. The training discussed the multiple tasks designed to get out the vote, from canvassing and phone calls, to poll watchers and rides to the polls.

You can join the Dover residents committed to change by signing up here to volunteer during GOTV. We're looking for more volunteers to join our ground game, knocking on doors and making phone calls to voters. You could also help us out by signing up to host a GOTV Volunteer in your house, bring a meal to your local office, or make calls from your own home on Neighbor to Neighbor.

Are you feeling the fierce urgency of now?

Red Arrow GOPer Switches to Obama

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:33:55 EDT

Red Arrow Diner Manager Elaine Boule Backs Obama

The Red Arrow Diner, a Manchester establishment since its founding in 1922, has had its fair share of politicians walk through their doors. A place for coffee and conversation, the Red Arrow Diner has drawn just about every candidate during the primaries.

Only one of those candidates has won over Manager Elaine Boule though, and that's Barack Obama and his steady response to the issues that impact New Hampshire voters, especially the economic crisis.

Listen to Elaine's views in this video:

"John McCain is a little too wishy-washy. I understand that he was in the service and he's a war hero, and he's very good about what's going to go on with the war. I appreciate his service. I don't think he'll make the next best president.

Read the whole article in today's Washington Post "The Trail" on their website.

Check out Barack in the Red Arrow last May on the campaign trail.

What's Your Obama Tax Cut?

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 10:14:58 EDT

New Hampshire can't afford more of the same. If Barack Obama and Joe Biden are elected, more than 800,000 people in New Hampshire will get a tax cut. That's change we can believe in.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden will cut taxes for 95% of working families, and provide at least three times as much tax relief for middle class families as John McCain and Sarah Palin. The Obama/Biden plan provides $1,000 of tax relief for workers and new tax benefits to help families pay for college, childcare and save for retirement.

What's your tax cut? Find out at http://taxcut.barackobama.com.

Share this blog with your friends. Make sure they know the truth about the Obama-Biden tax plan.

Field Blog #13: Hudson's Vivian

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:01:37 EDT

This blog was written by Field Organizer Calla Brown

Vivian is one of New Hampshire’s most enduring supporters of Barack Obama. Having met Barack at an event just a few months after he announced his candidacy, Vivian decided on the first-term senator from Illinois over the deep field of Democratic candidates. There was something in the way he talked to her—cool, intelligent, and thoughtful—that led Vivian to believe that he would change the way things had been going in recent years.

Perhaps one of the most persuasive people to set foot in the Nashua office, she has been known to turn an undecided voter into a full-fledged supporter while managing to schedule them to do repair work at her house the next weekend. She knocks on car windows while holding signs at intersections and poses tough questions about jobs and health care to McCain-stickered cars. She volunteers at every event in the area, whether it is a rally for Barack Obama himself or the last-minute organizational meeting before a big week of campaigning.

Just recently, in the wake of the collapse of finance giant Lehman Brothers, Vivian’s employer downsized its operation. The most recent hire, Vivian found herself at the bottom of the seniority ladder, and management had to let her go.

Tears still in her eyes, the first stop Vivian made after losing her job was our field office. With her usual big smile and eagerness to help out, she announced that she was going to have a few more hours to offer the campaign on top of her already substantial volunteering schedule. She proceeded to her usual position at the head of our phone bank, laughing in her usual way, but this time, with just a bit more determined than usual. Vivian McGuire is a constant reminder to all of us here in the Nashua office why we need change and why we need Barack Obama.

Join Vivian in our Nashua office to work tirelessly for the change we need:

Nashua
306 Amherst St.
Nashua, NH 03063
(603) 880-5122

Fight McCain's Cowardly Tactics

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 17:17:18 EDT

I just saw this post by Chris Hass on our HQ blog yesterday, and wanted to share it with you:

We learned on Thursday that voters in key battleground states are receiving automated phone calls from John McCain's campaign, spreading some of the most vile smears of this election. But these desperate "robocalls" say more about John McCain and his campaign than they do about Barack.

It was McCain himself who denounced these underhanded and cowardly tactics as "hate calls" after a rash of them helped sink his primary campaign in 2000. The perpetrator behind those attacks: George W. Bush.
If you or your family and friends have received one of these calls, you can help us fight back by reporting it. Documenting these calls is the only way the full extent of the McCain campaign's negative tactics will ever be known by voters across the country.
In talking about the election endgame, Stepen Rose from the Huffington Post wrote:
"If Barack Obama becomes president, it will be because of grass roots organization. The people who will make the difference on November 4 are the paid and volunteer organizers of the Obama-Biden campaign."
It will be the work you do on the ground these next 17 days that will make the difference, because honest, person to person contact is more powerful than a deceptive, automated phonecall. But as FiveThirtyEight reported while on the road in western Pennsylvania:"From what we've seen, this IS the McCain ground campaign. Robocalls count as "touches" on voters, as do direct mail pieces such as this one. As David Plouffe said in today's fundraising letter to supporters, "These tactics are all that the McCain campaign and their allies have left."

Sen. John Kerry came to Nashua and Manchester yesterday, calling on John McCain and John Sununu to take a stance and stop these negative campaign tactics. You can read about Sen. Kerry's visit to NH here.

If You Can't Join Them, Beat Them: Be Involved in NH From Home

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 16:24:22 EDT

Do you want to be involved in a battleground but don't have the time to drive for change or go into your local office? You can still make a direct impact in New Hampshire, a critical battleground state, by using Neighbor to Neighbor to make calls or get canvass lists right from your home computer.

Our Neighbor to Neighbor tool makes it easy to get in touch with voters in your community. Recently, Jill Biden visited our office in Chicago and used Neighbor to Neighbor to contact voters in a battleground state near her. Check out this short video of her experience:

We need your support now, and Neighbor to Neighbor helps you be involved no matter where you live, on whatever schedule that is convenient for you.

You can make a huge impact in this election. If you can make calls anytime between now and Election Day, sign up now and make a commitment to battle for every vote with us.

Two Major Newspaper Endorsements for Obama in New Hampshire

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:44:41 EDT

Both the Nashua Telegraph and the Concord Monitor's editorial boards endorsed Barack today, echoing Barack's support among Granite Staters.

Below are clips from the editorials. Full remarks can be found on the Nashuatelegraph.com and the ConcordMonitor.com.

Today, we endorse Barack Obama in his historic bid to become the 44th president of the United States of America. At this critical point in the nation's 232-year history, the young senator from Illinois is the right person at the right time to lead this country back to its former greatness and standing in the world community.

At first, like many Americans, our initial attraction to Obama as a presidential candidate was influenced by his extraordinary speaking skills, which he has used to inspire millions all across the country.

But we were equally impressed when we met with him a little more than a year ago in the TV studios of Nashua High School South. (The video is available for viewing at www.nhprimary.com).

From the moment we opened the session by asking him to detail his strategy for removing U.S. troops from Iraq, Obama answered our questions with a thoughtfulness that transcended the talking-point responses we heard from other candidates.

But, given everything that is at stake, we have confidence that he would rise to the challenge, much as he has done at other key stages of his life, and use his considerable leadership skills to build consensus toward the public good.
Read the full article...

The choice could not be clearer. Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois should be this nation's next president. As the first African American to hold the highest office in the land, Obama would make history and instantly remake America's image abroad. But that is not why he deserves to win. Obama has the temperament, judgment, ideas and vision to be president. Despite his decades of experience and heroic history, John McCain is not the right candidate for this moment.

No decision highlights this difference more starkly than McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate. Unlike Obama's choice for vice president, Sen. Joe Biden, Palin is unqualified, profoundly so, to hold either of the nation's top two offices.

Obama's considerable skills are augmented by his intelligence and his ability to inspire. All of that will be necessary to tackle problems that have grown to seem insurmountable over the past eight years. Serious people are talking about the end of America's supremacy as the world's leading economic power. The nation's young assume that they will not be as well-off as their parents. Unless the nation changes course quickly, their parents fear they could be right.
Read the full article...

John Kerry: "Right to the Very End"

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 17:20:37 EDT

With only 17 days left until November 4th, John Kerry returned to New Hampshire to talk about turning NH blue, McCain's negative attack robo-calls, looking out for our troops and veterans and what's at stake in this critical moment of our history.

97 days from today George Bush leaves Washington. What's important is not just that he leaves but that we replace him with someone who has the right vision for this country.

As the McCain camp continues to hit NH homes with false and dishonorable robo-calls, John Kerry called on John Sununu to break his silence and speak out, as Sen. Collins (R-Maine) has against these smears.

I also call on John McCain to grab back that decency he exhibited four years ago, eight years ago, and to take those negative messages out of here. They do not belong in the United States' political system.

Speaking to a packed office of volunteers who had just returned from canvassing, Kerry took the time to thank New Hampshire, and the flood of residents of his own Massachusetts, for their relentless hard work, laying the groundwork four years ago, and for refusing to stop since.

I am confident because you've never quit, you've never stopped, you're out here knocking on doors and calling voters, that we're going to win the greatest victory we've ever won in 17 days... This is as important as it gets. On Thursday before the Tuesday Election, I was going to win. The next day Osama bin Ladin appeared in a tape on television and we froze in the polls. This takes hard work right to the very end.

There are 17 days left before election day, and we must make this battleground state our battleground. We must make calls, we must knock on doors and we must get involved. Don't let up.

And They're Off!

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 10:39:44 EDT

It's 10:30 am in Manchester, and hundreds of canvassers have already hit the doors. Coffee, coats, and stickers in hand, volunteers have been streaming in the office since 9 am, arriving in cars and by the bus load with friends, family and neighbors.

Over 550 canvassers are expected in our Manchester office alone today, coming in from Manchester, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Vermont.

"Lots of people, lots of energy," Ed, a full-time volunteer, said. We've even had dachshunds for Obama."

The dachshund, Stan, with owner Jennifer from Boston, has canvassed twice before. Stan came decked out in a "Bark Obama" t-shirt, tail swinging.

"The only problem is that he wants to go to every door," Jennifer said.

After arriving, the canvassers received a short training and tips for canvassing, and met with local field organizers to plan their morning of reaching out to Granite Staters.

Can you join us to canvass this weekend or next weekend? Sign up here to help us if you are from out of state, or sign up using this link to help out if you are a New Hampshire resident. You can also find your local office here.

We only have 17 days left to make the change we so desperately need in this country happen, so get involved now.

17 Days out: Join John Kerry to Campaign for Obama in NH

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:31:25 EDT

What are you doing this weekend? Can you join Sen. John Kerry at a canvass kickoff in Nashua or Manchester? Here are the details:

Kerry Will Denounce McCain Campaign Smear Tactics; Discuss Sen. Obama's Judgment and Plan to Bring Change to Washington

MANCHESTER-- With less than 20 days left until Election Day, U.S. Senator John Kerry will travel to New Hampshire this Saturday, October 18th to reach out to Granite State voters about the Obama-Biden plan to bring change to Washington. As someone who experienced firsthand the Republican smear tactics that were used with voters during the 2004 presidential election, Sen. Kerry will discuss Sen. McCain's decision to mislead voters with vicious and false information instead of address the real issues impacting American families. Kerry will be in Nashua and Manchester.

"The phone calls that Sen. McCain is using in the Granite State and across the country to scare voters and spread misinformation about Sen. Obama are incredibly offensive and demonstrate McCain's desperate attempt to distract from the economy," said Sandra Abrevaya, New Hampshire Communications Director. "We're thrilled that Sen. Kerry will be in the state this weekend to combat these false claims about Sen. Obama and discuss why Sen. McCain represents more of the same failed Republican leadership.

CANVASS EVENT with John Kerry IN NASHUA

SATURDAY, October 18 at 1:30 pm

306 AMHERST ST.

NASHUA, NH

VETERANS TO VETERANS VOTER CONTACT EVENT with John Kerry IN MANCHESTER

SATURDAY, October 18 at 3 pm

359 ELM ST.

MANCHESTER, NH

Join John Kerry this weekend and drive for change in NH.

You can also help us to fight against smear campaign tactics. To report a robo call and help the campaign respond to these desperate attacks faster please visit www.fightthesmears.com/report.

17 Days out: John Kerry to Campaign for Obama in NH

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:14:34 EDT

What are you doing this weekend? Can you join Sen. John Kerry at a canvass kickoff in Nashua or Manchester? Here are the details:

Kerry Will Denounce McCain Campaign Smear Tactics; Discuss Sen. Obama's Judgment and Plan to Bring Change to Washington

MANCHESTER-- With less than 20 days left until Election Day, U.S. Senator John Kerry will travel to New Hampshire this Saturday, October 18th to reach out to Granite State voters about the Obama-Biden plan to bring change to Washington. As someone who experienced firsthand the Republican smear tactics that were used with voters during the 2004 presidential election, Sen. Kerry will discuss Sen. McCain's decision to mislead voters with vicious and false information instead of address the real issues impacting American families. Kerry will be in Nashua and Manchester.

"The phone calls that Sen. McCain is using in the Granite State and across the country to scare voters and spread misinformation about Sen. Obama are incredibly offensive and demonstrate McCain's desperate attempt to distract from the economy," said Sandra Abrevaya, New Hampshire Communications Director. "We're thrilled that Sen. Kerry will be in the state this weekend to combat these false claims about Sen. Obama and discuss why Sen. McCain represents more of the same failed Republican leadership.

CANVASS EVENT with John Kerry IN NASHUA

SATURDAY, October 18 at 1:30 pm

306 AMHERST ST.

NASHUA, NH

VETERANS TO VETERANS VOTER CONTACT EVENT with John Kerry IN MANCHESTER

SATURDAY, October 18 at 3 pm

359 ELM ST.

MANCHESTER, NH

Join John Kerry in fighting against smear campaign tactics. To report a robo call and help the campaign respond to these desperate attacks faster please visit www.fightthesmears.com/report.

If You Can't Join Them, Beat Them: Be Involved From Home

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:43:46 EDT

We need your support now, and Neighbor to Neighbor helps you be involved no matter where you live, on whatever schedule that is convenient for you. You can choose what campaign you would like to be involved in:

Calling Latino Voters

Calling Women

Calling NH Voters Concerned About Healthcare Issues

Calling Unregistered Voters

Canvassing Unregistered Voters

You can make a huge impact in this election. If you can make calls anytime between now and Election Day, sign up now and make a commitment to battle for every vote with us.

Field Blog #11: Students for Change in Exeter

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 10:02:40 EDT

Stratham High School student Elias has been an intern for the New Hampshire Campaign for Change since early July. A former John Edwards volunteer, Elias has spent the last four months dedicated to electing Senator Barack Obama.

Elias is a tireless and deeply passionate advocate for causes that he believes in, whether it be the affordability of health care or the rising cost of home heating fuel. Elias enjoys going door to door, as it allows him to engage in discussion with his neighbors about why he so avidly supports Senator Obama.

Elias (in red) with his friend Taylor and actor and Obama supporter Kal Penn (middle), last weekend in Exeter.

Elias has effectively utilized his network of friends and schoolmates to bring other volunteers to the campaign. Along with fellow intern, Chelsea (Brentwood), Elias has helped build a core of high school students at Exeter High School who are now regular volunteers. Sixteen “Blue Hawks” came out on Columbus Day to canvass in Exeter and Stratham for Senator Obama.

To join Elias and his friends by getting involved in the campaign in Exeter, call Jonny Asen at 603-438-3152 or email him at Jasen@nhforchange.com

Are you a student who wants to get involved in your local student group too? Visit our student resource page and sign up today to help with your student group.

Portsmouth
195 Hanover St., Suite 13
Portsmouth, NH 03801
(603) 436-2763

This field blog was written by Field Organizer Jonny Asen

From Barack: Why New Hampshire Needs YOU

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 20:09:48 EDT

Barack drew thousands of people to Mack's Apple's today in Londonderry, NH to listen to him speak about the Obama-Biden plan for change, the day after the final presidential debate. He spoke of the dire need for change in this country, and why we must keep fighting to make this change happen.

Well, New Hampshire, last night we had a debate. I think you saw a bit of the McCain attack strategy in action. But here's what Senator McCain doesn't seem to understand. With the economy in turmoil and the American Dream at risk, the American people don't want to hear politicians attack each other - you want to hear about how we're going to attack the challenges facing middle class families each and every day. You want to hear about the issues that matter in your lives. You want to hear about how we're going to bring about the change that we desperately need for our country. That's what the American people want to hear.

Barack spoke to the serious concerns of voters - addressing the economic crisis, creating jobs for the American middle class, fighting for families and working tirelessly for you in Washington.

John McCain thinks this campaign is all about me - but the truth is, this campaign is about you. Your jobs. Your health care. Your retirement. Your children's future. That's what this election is about. That's what I'm fighting for. Because I can take 3 more weeks of these attacks from John McCain, but the American people can't take four more years of the same failed policies and the same divisive politics.

New Hampshire, we are 19 days away from changing this country. But for those of you who are getting a little cocky I have two words for you: New Hampshire. I learned right here that you can't let up or pay too much attention to the polls. We've got to keep making our case for change; we've got to keep fighting for every vote; we've got to keep running through that finish line. This election is too important to take anything for granted. The future that you and I seek for our children is too important to let up now. The time for change has come.

We need you to help us win New Hampshire. Can you sign up today to join Barack Obama to fight for every vote, every step of the way? Sign up now to help win NH for Obama-Biden and our democratic candidates. If you already signed up and you need a ride, find one here.

Let's make change happen.

"I have two words for you: New Hampshire"

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 17:20:29 EDT

Barack drew thousands of people to Mack's Apple's today in Londonderry, NH to listen to him speak about the Obama-Biden plan for change, the day after the final presidential debate.

Well, New Hampshire, last night we had a debate. I think you saw a bit of the McCain attack strategy in action. But here's what Senator McCain doesn't seem to understand. With the economy in turmoil and the American Dream at risk, the American people don't want to hear politicians attack each other - you want to hear about how we're going to attack the challenges facing middle class families each and every day. You want to hear about the issues that matter in your lives. You want to hear about how we're going to bring about the change that we desperately need for our country. That's what the American people want to hear.

Barack spoke to the serious concerns of New Hampshire voters - addressing the economic crisis, creating jobs for the American middle class, fighting for families and working tirelessly for you in Washington.

John McCain thinks this campaign is all about me - but the truth is, this campaign is about you. Your jobs. Your health care. Your retirement. Your children's future. That's what this election is about. That's what I'm fighting for. Because I can take 3 more weeks of these attacks from John McCain, but the American people can't take four more years of the same failed policies and the same divisive politics.

New Hampshire, we are 19 days away from changing this country. But for those of you who are getting a little cocky I have two words for you: New Hampshire. I learned right here that you can't let up or pay too much attention to the polls. We've got to keep making our case for change; we've got to keep fighting for every vote; we've got to keep running through that finish line. This election is too important to take anything for granted. The future that you and I seek for our children is too important to let up now. The time for change has come.

New Hampshire, let's join Barack Obama to fight for every vote, every step of the way. Sign up now to join the campaign's team in NH and find your local office.

We need your help today.

Patrick, the Neighbor to Neighbor wiz kid, from Williamstown, MA

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:08:38 EDT

Patrick is 12 years old and from Williamstown, MA. He says he likes Barack Obama for "his healthcare reform. I like his idea of not drilling in Anwar National Parks in Alaska. I like his plan of taking soldiers out of Iraq," Patrick said.

I first got into the election when I met Arianna Huffington about twelve weeks ago. She talked about the policies of John McCain and that they go nowhere, and that they are the same policies as the Bush Administration.

He likes to read Maureen Dowd in the New York Times when she talks about the real McCain. Not only is Patrick knowledgeable, well-spoken on politics and just sharp all around, he is a wiz kid on the computer and found a whole new way political activism is growing on http://NH.BarackObama.com.

Patrick loves the online organizing tool called Neighbor to Neighbor. He invites his friends over to his home and he gives them lists of phone numbers to call through the Neighbor to Neighbor tool. He helped raise money for Senators Obama and Biden by playing the Dgembe, an African drum, on main streets around town and urging people to donate on a personal fundraising page on http://my.BarackObama.com put up by his mom.

He goes to all the political meetings in town, phonebanks with his friends, and traveled to the Manchester, New Hampshire Headquarters to see what the Campaign for Change is doing and meet the Out of State Director, Mike Cassel, whom he met on a webinar last week and thought he was so cool. He also wanted to see Senator Biden, or "Joe" as he calls him, in Manchester on Monday.

Not many of us can keep up with Patrick on the Internet, but if we could, he'd teach us all how powerful it is to reach out to people in New Hampshire with the Neighbor to Neighbor tool and talk to them about the importance of this election and the change that Barack Obama and Joe Biden will give us if elected President and Vice President of the United States of America.

Join Patrick, logon to my.BarackObama.com and start reaching out to voters using Neighbor to Neighbor.

This post was written by Brian Clark, New Hampshire New Media Director

Biden in NH, Monday Oct. 13

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:40:04 EDT

Look, you can't change the next four years if you continue George Bush's shoot first, ask questions later foreign policy.

Joe Biden held two community gatherings in New Hampshire today, speaking to over 600 people in Rochester's American Legion Building and drawing a crowd of nearly 1,000 at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester.

Biden spoke to the everyday, pressing concerns of Granite Staters - paying their heating bills this winter, keeping their jobs and their homes, and creating affordable healthcare.

"Will I have my job next month? Can I afford to go to the doctor? Is my house still worth what I paid for it?," Biden said. "These are questions that aren't going to be answered by negative attacks."

Today both John McCain and Barack Obama gave major speeches regarding our economic crisis and the tough issues facing Americans.

"What McCain is saying today ... is we have spent the last eight years gambling with our economy, and not a single thing he is proposing is different," Biden said. In today's speech McCain said that we have spent the last eight years waiting for our luck to change. "When Barack is president," Biden said, "we are not going to be waiting for our luck to change. We are changing our luck."

John McCain wants to attack Barack Obama. Barack Obama wants to attack the problems America faces. I guess when you vote with George Bush 90% of the time all you can do is attack 100% of the time.

Biden focused on real economic solutions, saying the crisis didn't start a day ago, a week ago or a month ago, but six or so years ago. We need, Biden said, to give tax cuts to 95% of Americans, create good paying jobs that stay in America, and put together the finest economic team in the country to work on these issues - before Jan. 20th.

Watch part of Biden's speech in Rochester here.

Help Sen. Biden make change happen now by finding your local office.

Spread the Truth about Barack

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 16:43:08 EDT

I just got the following email from Jon Carson, the National Field Director, about taking action now and contacting voters near me in NH. Every day from now until November 4th we will be reaching out to voters, and we need your help. Can you read this email and get involved today?

Dear Anne Marie,

The smears and lies about Barack are becoming more frequent, more outrageous, and more offensive.

While you and I know the truth, many undecided voters do not.

Right now, supporters like you who live in crucial battleground states are in a special position to influence this election by talking to undecided voters in your community. You can help by making phone calls or knocking on doors to set the record straight and win your state.

Get your list of potential supporters to contact. We'll give you talking points you can use.

This election is coming down to the wire. Voters are making up their minds, and in a number of states they are casting their votes early. You can help make sure the attacks we're seeing from the McCain campaign don't influence their decision at the polls.

No experience is required -- you can do it all from home. You'll join more than 200,000 supporters around the country who are using our voter contact tool to great success.

Ask friends and family to join you. If more supporters like you get involved, we can quickly reach the number of voters we need to win this election.

Get started right now:

http://my.barackobama.com/n2n

Thanks for all you do,
Jon
Jon Carson
National Field Director
Obama for America

The Trees, They Are a-Changing

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 16:10:00 EDT

It's another beautiful day for canvassing in NH, and the Manchester office is buzzing with canvassers, from NH and out of state alike. David Roben and Jane Juliano are first time canvassers, who drove in this morning from Cambridge.

Outfitted with a script, map, flyers for Joe Biden's NH visit tomorrow and Bella, Jane's golden retriever, the two are looking forward to having conversations with NH voters.

The faltering economy motivated Jane and David to make the hour long drive to come to NH and do everything they can to help the campaign, starting by knocking on doors.

"I was extremely anxious about this campaign," Jane said, "and to get over it I had to volunteer. Plus, the trees are beautiful this time of year."

Jane, a Visiting Professor at Harvard Law School, and David, a manager of a window manufacturing company in Quincy, MA, both urge supporters to take any angst they have over the Wall Street crisis and turn it into action.

"It will make you feel a whole lot better than sitting and watching the negative ads on tv. Everyone's mad, but they don't know what to do about it," Jane said.

As Jane's dog Bella got a drink of water from a volunteer at the office, Jane and David were briefed on NH's down ticket races and voter registration in NH.

David and Jane have never been involved with a campaign before, but are jumping into volunteering in as many ways as they can. Besides canvassing, Jane is helping with recruitment for our election protection program and phonebanking. They plan on returning for more canvassing as soon as they're able to.

Can you get involved and join Jane and David? Visit our website to sign up to drive to New Hampshire next weekend, or any weekend before Nov. 4.

If you've already signed up and you need a ride, or you have a ride to share, visit our carpool website.

Joe Biden in Rochester!

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 13:40:38 EDT

This Monday, October 13th, please join Joe Biden in Rochester, where he will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need.

Community Gathering with Joe Biden

The American Legion Hall

94 Eastern Ave

Rochester

Doors Open: 8:00 a.m.

Get Your Tickets HERE

Joe Biden in Manchester this Monday!

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 17:59:31 EDT

This Monday, October 13th, please join Joe Biden in Manchester, where he will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need.

Community Gathering with Joe Biden
Southern New Hampshire University Athletics & Recreation Complex Field House
2500 N. River Road
Manchester, NH

Monday, October 13th
Doors Open: 11:30 a.m. Program Begins: 1:30 p.m.
Get Your Tickets HERE

MONDAY: Howard Dean Returns To New Hampshire For College Voter Registration Events

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 17:57:24 EDT

The Campaign for Change just released the following statement:

MONDAY: Howard Dean Returns To New Hampshire For Keene State College Voter Registration Drive, Dartmouth College Community Event, Democratic Coordinated Campaign Phone Bank

Manchester, New Hampshire

Former Vermont Governor and current Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, Howard Dean, will return to New Hampshire this Monday for a voter registration drive at Keene State College, a community event with students at Dartmouth College and a Democratic Coordinated Campaign phone bank in Concord.

“Governor Dean will speak to students, faculty, and Keene community members about the importance of registering to vote this election year” said Sandra Abrevaya, New Hampshire Communications Director. “The stakes in this election are too high for young voters to sit this one out. Whether the issue is reviving our faltering economy, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, or making higher education affordable to all, Senator Obama and Senator Biden will deliver the change New Hampshire needs.”

“Governor Dean will lay out the very clear choice that New Hampshire students and families have this November between six more years of the failed economic polices of the Bush-Sununu years, or a new direction with Jeanne Shaheen and Barack Obama,” said Kate Bedingfield, communications director for Jeanne Shaheen for Senate. “In addition to talking with students, he will also visit a Democratic Coordinated Campaign phone bank in Concord to join people who are on the phones with New Hampshire voters spreading the message of change on behalf of Barack Obama, Jeanne Shaheen and Democrats up and down the ticket. On November 4th, people across New Hampshire will have the opportunity to stand up, make their voices heard and demand real change.”

The New Hampshire Campaign for Change is engaging students and young voters across New Hampshire and will continue to do so in the remaining weeks. Granite Staters interested in doing their part to elect Sen. Obama, Sen. Biden, Jeanne Shaheen and Democrats up and down the ticket can visit nh.barackobama.com and www.jeanneshaheen.org to find their local office and get involved.

VIDEO: Why I'm Voting For Barack

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 17:41:32 EDT

I received an important email today that I wanted to share with all of you. Please check out John's story, and share it with five friends today...

Dear Anne Marie,

My name is John Hutson. I'm a retired United States Navy rear admiral. Until recently, I was a lifelong Republican. This year, I'm voting as a Democrat and supporting Barack Obama for President.

Now I need your help. I need you to send this video to five undecided voters right now:

The Republican Party I once knew is long gone -- replaced by John McCain's negative campaign, with its Karl Rove smear tactics and the failed politics of fear that John McCain decried in the 2000 Republican primary. These politics disgusted me then, and I'm disgusted now.

Barack Obama has proven to me that he's the only candidate who can unite this country and solve our challenges based not on one party's affiliation or ideology, but on common principles.

It's time to cast aside the politics and divisiveness of the past and elect someone who won't tax our health care benefits, who will address the economic crisis with good judgment, and who will restore our standing in the world.

Watch my video now and forward it to at least five undecided voters in New Hampshire today:

http://NH.BarackObama.com/HutsonVideo

New Hampshire has always led the way in bringing change to America -- by supporting leaders who show good judgment and independent thinking.

In this election, Barack Obama is that leader. Let's lead the way again.

Thanks,

John Hutson

how to get involved

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 11:08:09 EDT

Hi Team,

Thanks for becoming involved in this group, and in the campaign. i've invited myself to the group to help you all learn how to use it - and to get involved in other ways. The easiest way to learn about options to be involved is to visit our action center, http://my.barackobama.com/actioncenter.

Thanks for everything you're doing.

houseparty

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:01:57 EDT

you are all welcome to the houseparty Judy is having on Tuesday night at my house - 662 Deaver Drive, Blue Bell, off Penllyn Pike. 7 PM. It is being coordinated by Pat Ahern at the headquarters in Plymouth Meeting. They will be showing a video and signing up new volunteers. If anyone has one or more folding chairs they could loan me for the evening, Judy will be happy to pick them up.

Thanks.