Becky Furgason's Blog

Young Voices

Becky Furgason — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:48:09 EST

Seven year old Beni donated his time today making phone calls for Barack at the St Paul - Midway office. Beni also donated to the office a drawing he made, his own take on the Obama rising sun logo. He told me the field over which the sun is rising represents all of America, he included the Capitol Building, the White House, and, at the top, the Lincoln Memorial, because he said, "Lincoln is like Obama."

When asked why he likes Obama, he replied,

"Because his health care plan is really educated, the war, and he's doing the best thing for the economic crisis."

Young people all across Minnesota and all across America are getting involved in the political process this year. Feeling empowered and motivated by a candidate they believe can move this country back in right direction. While young people like Beni can't vote, they can still have a major impact on this election; by being a part of the process, by getting involved, by volunteering.

Visit MN.BarackObama.com now to find out how you can help on Election Day

While Beni was inside explaining Barack's health care plan to an undecided voter, outside several high school students were making their voices heard as they marched down University Avenue.

Whatever your age and whether you have ever volunteered before or not, now is the time. There is one day left, Election Day, visit MN.BarackObama.com now to find the location nearest you and sign up to join the Minnesota Campaign for Change get the vote out for Obama and Biden tomorrow, November 4th, Election Day!

GOTV: Day 1

Becky Furgason — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 17:25:05 EDT

With just three days left in the presidential campaign, Barack Obama's Minnesota Campaign for Change continues its statewide Get Out The Vote program with canvasses and phone banks at over 100 Action Centers around the state.

Find the Action Center nearest you

To ensure the highest possible turnout for the Obama/Biden ticket, the Minnesota Campaign for Change will be attempting to knock on an unprecedented number of doors while simultaneously making a number of phone calls never before attempted during a Minnesota get out the vote effort.

Many feel this is the most important election in their lifetime and too important with too much at stake to spend the next three days sitting on the sidelines. With over 100 Action Centers and thousands of shifts still to fill, you have an opportunity to make a difference in the outcome of this election and to help shape the future or America.

Visit MN.BarackObama.com/NovVolunteer now and sign up to join in the largest Get Out The Vote effort Minnesota has ever seen.

Minneapolis Kicks Off GOTV with Keith Ellison

Becky Furgason — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:20:56 EDT

Keith Ellison joined Campaign for Change this afternoon to help rally volunteers as they kicked off the start of Minnesota's ten day Get Out The Vote effort. Prior to sending them off to be trained, Mr Ellison told them,

"Go out there, do the best you can, and transmit that love, that passion you have for our country to somebody else. You see something in them that they may not see in themselves at that moment. Light that fire, start that spark."

Campaign for Change organizers provided volunteers, many whom have never volunteered for a political campaign before, with a thorough training and provided answers to all their questions; putting them on the path to a successful canvass.

The hard work and enthusiasm of supporters like you has helped build this unprecedented grassroots movement. There may be only ten days left, but there is a lot of work to be done and it can't be done without you.

This isn't over until the last vote is cast on Election Day, please visit MN.BarackObama.com/GOTVforChangeMN today and sign up to help ensure a win on November 4th.

Photos from this afternoon's event in Minneapolis

GOTV Kick Off in St Paul with Al Franken

Becky Furgason — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 13:11:56 EDT

With just ten days left in the presidential campaign, Barack Obama's Minnesota Campaign for Change, today, launched its statewide Get Out The Vote program with kick-off events around the state. Elected officials and candidates are helping to rally volunteers as they gather to knock on doors and phone bank across Minnesota.

The Minnesota Campaign for Change will be aggressively targeting potential voters with door knocks and phone calls to ensure the highest possible turnout for the Obama/Biden ticket. The campaign will fill tens of thousands of volunteer shifts in the final days of the campaign.

All the hard work and dedication of people like you has brought us to this, the last ten days. This election is too important and there is too much at stake to spend them sitting on the sidelines. There are thousands of shifts to fill and even more doors to knock and calls to make. Every single one of you is needed. Visit MN.BarackObama.com/GOTVforChangeMN now and sign up to join in the largest Get Out The Vote effort Minnesota has ever seen.

Photos from this mornings kick-off in St Paul with Al Franken

Find Your In-Person Absentee and Election Day Polling Location

Becky Furgason — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:50:21 EDT

http://www.voteforchange.com

Election Day is almost here, and what you do in the final days of this campaign will help change the course of history.

The Minnesota Campaign for Change has set up over a hundred GOTV Action Centers across the state where volunteers like you can go to knock on doors or make phone calls during the final days of this campaign.

Visit MN.BarackObama.com/GOTVforChangeMN to find the Action Center nearest you and sign up to help Get Out The Vote in Minnesota.

THURSDAY: Collin Peterson hosts Get Out the Vote Kickoff

Becky Furgason — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 19:37:27 EDT

Rep Collin Peterson and Obama's Minnesota Campaign for Change will host a Get Out the Vote Kickoff in Marshall on Thursday

As Election Day nears, U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson, Barack Obama's Minnesota Campaign for Change and several local elected officials will join local farmers and supporters of the Obama campaign in a kick off of Get Out the Vote activities at the Campaign for Change Headquarters in Marshall.
Rep. Peterson will address Senator Obama's strong record on issues of importance to rural Minnesotans and the clear choice voters have in this election. The Obama Campaign for Change has an unprecedented level of organization and support in rural Minnesota that will be mobilized to get out the vote in the days running up to Election Day.
Here are the details:

Who:

U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson
Minnesota Campaign for Change
Local Elected Officials
What:
Get Out The Vote Kick Off
Where:
Obama Campaign for Change Headquarters
240 W Main St
Marshall, MN
When:
Thursday, October 23, 2008
4:30 PM

VIDEO: Getting out the vote

Becky Furgason — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:33:24 EDT

The following email was sent out today from Minnesota State Director Jeff Blodgett:

Dear Becky,
Did you know the second most common reason that people don't vote is that they don't know how? The top reason: No one ever asked them to.
There's no doubt about it -- the conversations you have with friends, family, and voters across Minnesota will decide the outcome of this election.
In the next two weeks, we're planning the largest get out the vote (GOTV) operation in Minnesota history. But it'll only happen if you're a part of it.
Watch this video explaining the importance of our GOTV operation and sign up to become a part of this historic effort:

We have to make sure every voter hears Barack's message of change and votes. What we do or don't do in the next two weeks will decide the outcome of this race.
To meet our GOTV goals, we'll need to fill over 50,000 door-knocking shifts in the last four days, including 30,000 on Election Day, November 4th, alone.
We can't risk waking up on November 5th to four more years of the same failed policies and the same cynical politics.
Can you volunteer to get out the vote between now and Election Day and help change the course of history?
Join our Campaign for Change today and do your part by signing up below:
http://mn.barackobama.com/GOTVMN
Thanks,
Jeff
Jeff Blodgett
Minnesota State Director
Obama for America
P.S. -- You can also make calls or knock on doors on your own time. Visit Neighbor to Neighbor now and do your part right from home:
http://mn.barackobama.com/n2n

Statement of Barack Obama on Passing of Tony Dean

Becky Furgason — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:31:56 EDT

Senator Barack Obama today issued the following statement regarding the passing of Tony Dean, the renowned sportsman, outdoors radio and television broadcaster, and wildlife habitat and environmental advocate:

"Tony Dean was committed to his fellow sportsmen and determined to protect our precious habitats – and unafraid to voice his opinions on both. I was honored to have his endorsement, and as President, I will continue to fight for those causes he held dear. His passing is a tremendous loss for sportsmen and conservationists alike. Michelle, the Bidens and I extend our thoughts and prayers to Tony’s family and friends."

Share Your Health Care Story

Becky Furgason — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:13:25 EDT

At last nights' debate Barack Obama was able to share with viewers details of his plan to improve health care and make it available and affordable for all Americans. This campaign is about you, your stories and ideas help shape the debate and the campaign's vision.

Share your own Health Care story here

From Ann in Farmington, MN:

As a pharmacist I see everyday who health insurance effects every person in the community. There isn't a day that goes by that there isn't a patient that has to choose between taking their medication and paying other bills. This years medicare enrollment is starting soon and our senior citizens will have to make another tought decision to either stay with their current insurance or try another plan. It is hard at times for them to find a plan that will be the best. Knowing how much insurance one will need is sometimes hard to predict especially when they suddenly fall ill during the middle of the year. I also have many patients that have no health care coverage at all, but have pre-existing condtions and are unable to obtain insurance. It saddens me that in a country where everything is possible and we take care of so many others that these people are unable to have the best for their care. We have to at times find alternatives that are less expensive but are not as effective and hope that they will work. Barack please help everyone find good healthcare that every American deserves.

Read Obama's Health Care Plan here

Michelle Obama Speaks to Voters in Rochester

Becky Furgason — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:41:50 EDT

Today at the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester, Michelle Obama spoke to an estimated 2200 Minnesota voters about the clear choice they have in this election between change and more of the same. She discussed the everyday challenges that working families face as our economy worsens. She talked about Barack Obama and Joe Biden's long records of standing up for women and families and brought the crowd to their feet in applause when she talked about Barack's plan to responsibly end the war in Iraq and bring our troops home with honor.

She told the crowd that America deserves a leader who "gets it,"

"We have to start asking ourselves don't we deserve leaders and policies that reflect our values as a nation and our reality. Don't we deserve that? Don't we deserve leaders who get it? I've been traveling around for 20 months with the sole task of letting you know that my husband, Barack Obama, gets it. He doesn't get it in some philosophical, theoretical way, he get's it because he's lived it. The experiences that have shaped him shapes the way he sees the world and shapes what kind of President he will be"

Later in the afternoon, Michelle spoke before a crowd of approximately 4500 at a rally at Macalester College in Saint Paul.

Community Event with Michelle Obama in Rochester, MN

Statement of Barack Obama on the Passing of Allan H. Spear

Becky Furgason — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:27:06 EDT

Chicago, IL – Senator Barack Obama today released the following statement on the passing of Minnesota State Senator and former President of the Senate Allan Spear:

"I join with all Minnesotans who mourn the loss of Allan Spear. His evenhandedness, his command of the issues, and his ability to reach across the aisle and work with colleagues of both parties were legendary and should inspire us all. He was a man of great courage who served as one of this nation’s first openly gay legislators. Michelle and I and the Bidens send our thoughts and prayers to Allan’s partner, Junjiro Tusji, and all the family, friends and colleagues who loved him."

Monday: Michelle Obama in Rochester and St. Paul

Becky Furgason — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:19:59 EDT

This Monday, October 13th, please join Michelle Obama in Rochester or St. Paul, where she will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need.

Rochester Event:

Community Event with Michelle Obama

Taylor Arena at the Mayo Civic Center
30 Civic Center Drive SE
Rochester, MN

Monday, October 13th
Gates Open: 10:30 a.m.
Program Begins: 12:00 p.m.

http://mn.barackobama.com/RochesterMO

Tickets are not required but people with tickets will be guaranteed admittance. People without tickets WILL BE ADMITTED as space permits.

For security reasons, do not bring bags and please limit personal items. Signs and banners are not permitted.

St. Paul Event:

Change We Need Rally with Michelle Obama

Macalester College
Leonard Center
125 Snelling Ave S.
St. Paul, MN

Monday, October 13th
Doors Open: 2:30 p.m.
Program Begins: 4:00 p.m.

http://mn.barackobama.com/StPaulChange

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required; however, an RSVP is strongly encouraged.

For security reasons, do not bring bags and please limit personal items. Signs and banners are not permitted.

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) Stumps in Minnesota

Becky Furgason — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 22:59:37 EDT

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, national chairman of the Obama/Biden for America campaign, joined Barack Obama's Minnesota Campaign for Change today to talk to voters around the state about Barack Obama and Joe Biden's plan to restore the economy by creating middle-class jobs in America's heartland. Durbin made several campaign stops around the state, including a canvass kick off in Stillwater and a phone bank in White Bear Lake.

Senator Durbin played a significant role in convincing Barack to run for President and was first to endorse him. He told volunteers in Stillwater,

"We have an extraordinary candidate, this guy is something special and I think you know it. His message of unifying the country comes at just the right moment; when we come together, we're at our strongest. This American family comes in a lot of different brands, a lot of different colors, and a lot of different backgrounds; but when we're together nobody can beat us, and is there ever a time when we needed unity more as a nation than we do now?"

He talked about the challenges the next President will be inheriting; responsibly ending the war in Iraq, bringing the troops home with honor, and rebuilding the American economy. "There are many more things that we need to do," he said, "but we can't get it done if we don't win and we can't win without you."

He closed by telling a story that Al Gore used to tell when he ran for President, two stories, about the two choices we have for the morning after the election.

First choice:

"You can wake up the morning after the election with a headache and a soar throat. It's raining outside and you can hear the thunder and the lightening; the rain is hitting your bedroom window. You get out of bed and you walk toward the living room, you stub your toe on the chair and you're kinda limping. When you get into the living room, there's your family dog, growling at you. You open the front door and pick up the Pioneer Press, out of a puddle of water, you read the headline and it says "John McCain Elected President".

"That's the first choice," he said, "but, there's a second choice."

"You wake up on Wednesday, November the 5th and you never felt better in your life; clear headed and bright eyed. You hear the birds singing outside as the sun comes through the window. You kick your feet out of bed right into the slippers, walk into the living room and there's your little dog with his tail wagging, looking at you. You open the front door and there is the clean dry paper, that Pioneer Press: "BARACK OBAMA ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES!"

"Now which ending do we want to have?"

As Senator Durbin says, "we can't win without you." With less than 25 days to go, your time is more valuable and more needed than ever. Sign up today to volunteer for Barack Obama's Campaign for Change here in Minnesota. Let's make sure November 5th's headline reads, "BARACK OBAMA ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES!"

Sign up today!

Photos from today's events

Share Your Health Care Story

Becky Furgason — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:05:48 EDT

Health care or lack of health care affects all Americans in one way or another. Whether you are a health care professional or have received care, everyone has a story to tell. This campaign is about you, your stories and ideas help shape the debate and the campaign's vision.

From Kris in Wadena, MN:

My 12 year old son has a disease called Mastoid Disease. This is a deadly disease if not maintained and watched closely. It is also a debilitating painful disease. He has had many surgeries to correct and maintain this disease. I have lost count of how many but; I know it is close to 50 surgeries as of this date. Too many to mention but, In April of 2006 he had a Tutigen eardrum transplant, He was the first child to receive this surgery and it to be a success in the United States. Before him, they tried it on an adult and it was a success for him too. It is now done more frequently on patients.
We have had our son on medical assistance through the county that we live in for most of his life as we could never afford these microscopic surgeries for him. As of Jan. 2009 his medical assistance will end due to our income and we have run out of programs for him to be on. I am very worried about what will happen. I won't be able to even take him in for his periodic visits to see his surgeon. I pray every day and night for a miracle. My son is a Miracle! He is a good student. He gets A's and B's on his report cards. He does have medical issues at school that we are dealing with. Such as, he has to be careful not to hit his head and the cold weather can really damage his ears. He is on a 504 plan at school. He wants to someday be an Ear Surgeon and find a cure for this horrible disease so no other person has to go through what he has gone through. As an infant, we were told that he would not be able to hear or talk. Looking at him today, you would never know that he had such a disease. He talks and does not slur his words. He also can hear with the help of a hearing aide.
Please Mr. Obama, Please help all of us find a way to protect ourselves and our children and help us provide health insurance for them. If my son's insurance does run out, I won't stop there; I will go deeply in debt to help him. I am very worried for Jan.2009 as my son could die from this if we can't get him to his regular doctor (surgeon's) appointments and have insurance to help us. Thank You; Kris

From Lori in Saint Louis, MN

Working as a RN is a challenge in many ways. But lately the biggest challenge I face every shift is a shortage in staffing, due to a budget crunch faced by the Hospital I work at. This crunch is due to rising costs of all supplies, including rising prices of fuel, food and medical supplies. Also it is due to decreased payments from Medicare, and Medicaid, along with the increase of patients who do not have health insurance.
This is a crisis in the Health Care Industry, and is dangerous for patients. Nurses are at jeopardy for making mistakes, and losing their jobs, and Nursing Licenses. Both the patient and the medical staff are suffering. Hospitals are looking at ways to cut costs, and the first cuts are with staff, this is putting our patients in danger. I hope that your administration looks at this crisis seriously, and helps to protect the patient and health care workers, by increasing payments from Medicare, and finding a way to help the uninsured. Our Health care system is on the brink of collapse, just like Wall Street. Unless this is addressed it will become much worse.
Lorie
Registered Nurse
Minnesota

Share your own Health Care story here

Read Obama's Health Care Plan here

Because Health Care Is Too Important To Be Left To Chance

Becky Furgason — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 19:01:44 EDT

In events around the state today, Barack Obama's Minnesota campaign, local officials and regular Minnesotans discussed a report on John McCain's radical health care plan that will tax health care benefits for the first time, result in 20 million Americans to lose their employer-provided health care and raise health care costs. Press conferences were held today in St. Paul, Rochester, Mankato and Virginia.

Currently more than 45 million Americans are uninsured, and millions more underinsured. Senator Obama's health-care plan will provide affordable, accessible health care to all and will reduce premiums by $2,500 per family. Experts have shown that John McCain's plan, which he admits will increase taxes on some individuals, could also force another 20 million Americans from their current employer-provided health care plan.
"Far too many Minnesotans are struggling to get by without the health insurance they desperately need", State Rep. Erin Murphy said. "John McCain's plan to tax working Minnesotans' health benefits is unconscionable. It is another sign that John McCain does not get it. With the economy already punishing middle class families, and healthcare out of reach for millions, Senator McCain once again has shown he sides with the special interest lobbyists who run his campaign. We don't need higher taxes on healthcare, we need to bring costs down and make coverage affordable and available to everyone who needs it. John McCain's plan is just more of the same out of touch Washington jargon that has created this crisis."

The report is available in full HERE

Watch the new "Coin" Ad:

Read Obama's health care plan

Share your own health care story

Commentary on McCain health care plan

Thirty Days and Counting

Becky Furgason — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 20:43:43 EDT

This weekend Campaign for Change volunteers and staff knocked on doors across the state as part of the "One Month Out" weekend. This means Election Day is now less than one month away. You still have the opportunity to help win this state for Barack Obama, and help him bring change to our country. Every day, up to and including Election Day, Barack Obama's Campaign for Change offers volunteers the opportunity to be a part of this historic campaign. Sign up online at MN.BarackObama.com or visit a local field office to find out how you can help.

Supporters in White Bear Lake finished up a weekend of canvassing with a "Barack-B-Q" held after today's canvass for all those who spent the day knocking on doors and talking to voters.

Mary and Jay, residents of White Bear Lake, have been actively helping with the campaign in one way or another for months now. They said that they, at first, were nervous about knocking on doors and weren't sure they would like it, but have since realized it's something they love to do and makes them feel as though they are really making a difference.

"I love seeing the excitement when I knock on doors of Obama supporters, but when you can get his message across to Independents; you know you're doing something."

Election Day is just around the corner and in this election every single vote will matter. That's why we need every one of you to get out in your communities and talk to your neighbors about Barack Obama. What we do, or don't do, in the next 30 days will determine if America gets the change it needs.

Join Minnesota for Obama today!

Local Hip Hop Artists Help the Community Kick Off the Final Month

Becky Furgason — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 13:44:03 EDT

This morning's canvass led us in to the final month of the election. One month from now Minnesotans and fellow Americans across the country will head to the polls and cast their ballot.

The St Paul - Rondo office kicked off their first canvass this weekend with local Hip Hop artists, Brother Ali, St Paul Slim, and Mujah Messiah; who in realizing that personal contact at a local level is the most effective way to identify existing Obama supporters and introduce undecided voters to the kind of change we are working to bring about, where not only present for the canvasses' launch, but they, themselves, went out and knocked on doors with approximately 30 other members of the community who came in today. Also present for today's canvass launch in the Rondo neighborhood were: City Commisioner, Toni Carter, City Counsel member Melvin Carter, Mayor Chris Coleman, and Robin Hickman.

There are only 31 days left and now, more than ever, your time and help is needed. Every one of you have a stake in this election and you can have a major impact on the outcome not just by your vote, but by participating in the process. There is no shortage of volunteer opportunities, visit my.barackobama.com today to find an event in your area this weekend and help shape the future of your country.

Photos from today's canvass launch in Rondo

VP Hopefuls Engage in "Spirited" Debate

Becky Furgason — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:29:59 EDT

Last night a historic number of viewers tuned in to watch the first and only Vice Presidential debate between Senator Joe Biden and Governor Sarah Palin. What they saw is why Barack Obama chose Joe Biden to be his running mate, it was clear that he has the experience and knowledge to be a great Vice President.

Approximately 30 people attended a Vice Presidential Debate Watch Party last night at Time Out Bar and Grill in Blaine. They were impressed by Joe's detailed answers to the questions put forth by moderator Gwen Ifill and his support of his running mate, Barack Obama.

Roy, a local volunteer, said he was most concerned about unemployment and was happy to hear Biden address the issue,

"I like the specifics of what kind of jobs are you going to create for people. That's the whole key right there. Just like Roosevelt when he came in after The Depression, he put people to work. He used the government to put people to work, maybe that's what we've got to do right now."

This weekend marks one month out from Election Day and Campaign for Change is launching a number canvasses across the state. Personal contact at a local level is the most effective way to identify existing Obama supporters -- and introduce undecided voters to the kind of change we are working to bring about. That's exactly what is being done here in Minnesota -- and Barack has no better advocate here than you.

Join Barack Obama's Campaign for Change this weekend, October 4th and 5th for a "One Month Out" canvass.

Statement of Barack Obama on National Hunting and Fishing Day

Becky Furgason — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 16:19:08 EDT

Senator Barack Obama made the following statement today regarding National Hunting and Fishing Day:

“Hunting and fishing are not just recreational pursuits, they are part of our national heritage. America’s hunters and anglers uphold a tradition that connects generations and brings families and friends together across our great nation. Today, we celebrate this tradition and the conservation legacy of hunters and anglers. “National Hunting and Fishing Day is a time to reaffirm our commitment to America’s sportsmen. As President, I will protect the right to bear arms, increase access to places to hunt and fish, take on polluters and clean up our streams and lakes, and protect our nation’s important wildlife habitat and wetlands. I will enhance programs that encourage young people to hunt and fish and respect and protect the outdoors. “Our nation’s sportsmen have made sure that this and future generations can enjoy our natural resources and wildlife. As President, I will stand with them and ensure that America’s hunting and fishing heritage endures.”

The First Debate

Becky Furgason — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 12:44:08 EDT

Last night's debate was a clear victory for Barack Obama; he demonstrated the vision and judgment to be Commander in Chief. He also demonstrated his strong advocacy for the middle class, laid out the changes we need to strengthen the economy, provide healthcare to Americans, and achieve energy independence.

Cuppa Java in Minneapolis was one of many locations where supporters and undecided voters gathered to watch Obama and McCain debate issues that affect our lives and hear their plans for improving America's future.

Michael, Professor of History at University of Minnesota, said he thought it was a good debate and was impressed by Barack's strength on foreign policy,

"I thought one of the best points Obama kept raising was the point that for a long time we've focused just on Iraq and that the next President has to have a much broader vision, one that includes Iraq but does not exclusively focus on it. And that strategically we have to think about the treats in the world as not just limited to Iraq but in Afghanistan as well. I think that's probably one of his greatest strengths that you have to improve the image of the United States abroad and I think that's best done by someone who is a clear break from the most recent administration which McCain clearly is not and Obama clearly is."

Patty, the event's organizer, agreed that the debate went well. She felt Barack was very genuine and was pleased to see that he chose to use most of his time talking about his plans to fix our nation's problems rather than solely focusing on what John McCain would not do or has not done.

Learn more about Barack Obama and Joe Biden's plan to secure America and restore our standing in the world and their plan to strengthen the economy.

The vice presidential debate is scheduled to take place in St. Louis, MO on October 2nd and the next Presidential debate is scheduled for October 7th in Nashville, TN.

Campaign Supporters to Hold Debate Watch Parties with Undecided Voters

Becky Furgason — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 17:36:39 EDT

Tonight, Obama-Biden supporters and undecided voters across Minnesota will gather to watch and discuss the first Presidential Debate between Barack Obama and John McCain.

ST. PAUL – Supporters of U.S. Sen. Barack Obama will host debate watch house parties across Minnesota with undecided voters. The watch parties will be an opportunity to bring supporters together with neighbors and community members to watch the debates and talk about issues. The campaign is hosting more than 110 watch parties across Minnesota.
The Minnesota Campaign for Change has been actively reaching out to undecided voters, neighbor to neighbor, friend to friend. The debate will give undecided voters an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates and talk to their friends, family and neighbors about the critical issues being discussed.
"There is no more important time for voters to hear directly from the candidates about their plans for the economy and to keep us safe than right now in this time of crisis," Obama’s Minnesota state director Jeff Blodgett said. "Senator Obama has shown consistent leadership on the most important foreign policy issues of our time and has a comprehensive strategy to restore economic security to working families across the state of Minnesota. These house parties will be a great opportunity for supporters to talk to their undecided neighbors, friends, family and community members about these critical issues as the candidates discuss them in real time."
WATCH PARTY LOCATIONS:
All Parties Start at 7:30pm
Hopkins Debate Watch Party
With Special Guest Former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack
VFW Post 425
100 Shady Oak Road
Hopkins, MN
Alexandria
Campaign for Change Office
222 6th Ave
Alexandria, MN
Chanhassen
Home of Laura Helmer
8596 Drake Ct.
Chanhassen, MN
Duluth
House of Joan and Alan Peterson
3025 E 2nd St
Duluth, MN
Edina
Davanni's Pizza
5124 Gus Young Ln
Edina, MN
Mankato
Home of Ron Yezzi
201 Chancery Lane
Mankato, MN
Rochester
Igor Vovkovinskiy
915 48th Ave NW
Rochester, MN
Saint Cloud
McCann’s Food & Brew
3320 3rd St. North
Saint Cloud, MN
Virginia
Campaign for Change Office
327 Chestnut Street
Virginia, MN

Click here to find more Debate Watch parties

Women's Week Continues

Becky Furgason — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:21:49 EDT

Women's Weekend of Action kicks off today with Women to Women Phone Banks held at each of the 11 Campaign for Change offices and continues through the weekend with Women for Obama House Parties; hosted by women for women.

Women's Weekend of Action Schedule
Thursday, September 18th
4:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Women for Obama Statewide Phone Bank Night
Join women supporters in your local field office to call undecided women.
Find your local office
Thursday, September 18th - Sunday, September 21st
Women for Obama House Parties
Hosted by women for women
House Parties Thursday, September 18th
The Hub Cafe (Rugby, ND)
215 Highway 2 SW
7:00 p.m.
House Parties Friday, September 19th
The home of Lois Schneider (Fargo, ND)
1117 3rd Ave S
5:00 p.m.
House Parties Saturday, September 20th
Campaign for Change HQ (Williston, ND)
205 Main Street
9:00 a.m.
Home of Delcie Light (Devils Lake, ND)
2326 14th Ave SW
2:00 p.m.
Home of Carolyn Nelson (Fargo, ND)
1 2nd St S Apt 5-402
3:00 p.m.
Dan and Francoise Buchanan's Home (Jamestown, ND)
216 15th Ave NW
4:00 p.m.
The Home of Sarah Vogel (Bismarck, ND)
1203 N 2nd St
4:00 p.m.
House Parties Sunday, September 21st
The Home of Carol Christianson (Bismarck, ND)
1731 Hamburg Dr
3:00 p.m.
Wolf Residence (Minot, ND)
1420 78th St SE
4:00 p.m.
Keeley House (Grafton, ND)
7187 Highway 81

Join North Dakota Women's Weekend of Action Today!

Senator Conrad on John McCain Statement

Becky Furgason — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:11:14 EDT

Statement of Senator Kent Conrad (D-ND) on John McCain saying "the
fundamentals of the economy are strong."

“John McCain is simply out of touch when it comes to the economy. How else do you explain the fact he thinks “the fundamentals of the economy are strong?”
“The reality is America’s economy is far from strong, and families in North Dakota and across the nation are feeling the crush from the current economic crisis each and every day. They are feeling the effects of eight years of a reckless economic policy by the Bush Administration – a policy embraced by Senator McCain.
“These are challenging times and we need new leadership to get America’s economy back on track. We need Barack Obama, who if elected president, will work to change a broken financial system and restore our country's prosperity.”

Attend a Women to Women Phone Bank This Thursday

Becky Furgason — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:49:13 EDT

Women across the state are coming together this Thursday, September 18th at Campaign for Change offices across the state to reach out to their fellow women in North Dakota.

Women to Women phone banks will be held at each of the 11 Campaign for Change offices in the state and run from 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm this Thursday.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden stand behind the women of North Dakota, they support the issues that matter most to them and we need you to come help us get that important message out.

Women were granted the right to vote in 1920 at the urging of Democratic President Woodrow Wilson and they have made the difference in every election since. This election will certainly be no different. Sign up today to reach out to women on Thursday.

Maria Cantwell Speaks to North Dakota Women

Becky Furgason — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:30:44 EDT

Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) hosted a forum on issues important to women voters in Grand Forks Sunday followed by a Women Small Business Owners roundtable in Fargo Monday morning. At the forum on Sunday, Senator Cantwell listened to women from the Grand Forks area who spoke of the challenges they face balancing work and family and discussed the Obama-Biden plan to support working women and their families.

"The choice here between Barack Obama and Joe Biden and the other ticket is so stark when it comes to the issues that working women and women at home care about." She believes the fact that North Dakota does not require voter registration provides an incredible opportunity for women in the state to help shape the outcome of this election.

On the issue of social security, she said,

"Social Security has been a stronghold for people to know that in retirement, in the loss of health or in the loss of work opportunities, that they will have a program that they've paid into that will benefit them in retirement. Why should women care about this? Women should care about this because they live longer"

Senator Maria Cantwell Kicks Off Women's Week

Becky Furgason — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 21:39:25 EDT

Maria Cantwell (D-WA) was in North Dakota today to campaign for Senator Obama. In addition to holding a forum on women's issues, she joined Campaign for Change staff and volunteers to kick off a week-long series of events the campaign will be holding to focus on issues important to women in North Dakota.

Today, Senator Cantwell kicked off a volunteer canvass at the Grand Forks Campaign office and later in the evening, she was in Fargo to speak to volunteers prior to a Sunday evening canvassing drive. She talked about the importance of knocking on doors, talking to your friends and telling them "it's time to change the direction of our country and that Barack Obama is the person who's going to do that."

Ms Cantwell said she has "faith and confidence that Barack Obama's priorities are the right priorities for North Dakota," and was surprised and excited to see the field effort that has already been established in the state on behalf of Barack,

"Today's effort is just another commitment by Senator Obama to say how much he cares about North Dakota, because if you care about North Dakota now, you're certainly going to care about North Dakota when you're in the White House. And so I really appreciate that he's putting the time and energy into understanding the issues here and to make the commitment to work hard with the people of this state."

In the spirit of Women's Week, she also talked about issues important to women in North Dakota, such as Social Security, pay equality, education, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), as well as energy and the need for us as a nation to reduce our dependency on foreign sources for our energy needs,

"When I look at this transition we have to make, I want a new leader with new ideas, with a vision for the future, particularly on energy, who's going to get us off our dependence on Middle East oil"

On Monday, Senator Cantwell will hold a roundtable with women small business owners in Fargo. The discussion will focus on Senator Obama's plan to support North Dakota's working women.

Two New Offices Open in Rugby and Valley City

Becky Furgason — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:49:10 EDT

Barack Obama's Campaign for Change now has offices open in Rugby and Valley City, bringing the total to 11 office locations, further expanding grassroots organizing efforts in North Dakota.

The Rugby office is located at 607 Highway 2 SW and the Valley City Office is located at 150 2nd St SW.

The offices are open seven day per week, so stop by to find out how you can get involved.

North Dakota Campaign for Change Regional Field Offices

North Dakota Republicans Side With Obama Plan To Invest In Renewable Energy

Becky Furgason — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 08:32:57 EDT

Like Obama-Biden, North Dakotans Back Ethanol, Comprehensive Approach to Solving Energy Crisis

As families in North Dakota and across the country struggle with soaring energy costs, Senator McCain and the GOP are refusing to take bold steps to invest in renewable sources of energy such as ethanol. By contrast, Barack Obama and Joe Biden will provide short-term relief to American families, invest in renewable sources of energy, and help create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.

Last week, John McCain and his party's platform called for an end to a program that promotes important investments in renewable fuels like ethanol that are good for North Dakota's economy and are critical to ending our nation's dependence on foreign oil. North Dakota Republicans disagreed with McCain's position and seemed to side with the Obama plan to make the kind of significant investments in renewable energy and that are good for North Dakota and in the long-term interests of America.

Obama's Plan to Boost Biofuels and Fight Our Dependence on Foreign Oil

A Long Record of Support for Ethanol and Advanced Biofuels. Thanks to a law Barack Obama championed, gas stations are now eligible for tax credits for installing E85 ethanol refueling pumps. The tax credit covers 30 percent of the costs of switching petroleum pumps. Obama also sponsored legislation requiring oil companies that made at least $1 billion in profits in the first quarter of 2006 to invest at least 1 percent of their total reported first quarter 2006 profits into installing E85 pumps. Obama also introduced legislation with Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS) to require 2 billion gallons of alternative diesels, including biodiesel, to be produced domestically by 2015.

Develop the Next Generation of Sustainable Biofuels and Infrastructure. Advances in biofuels, including cellulosic ethanol, biobutenol and other new technologies that produce synthetic petroleum from sustainable feedstocks offer tremendous potential to break our addiction to oil. Barack Obama will work to ensure that these clean alternative fuels are developed and incorporated into our national supply as soon as possible. He will require at least 60 billion gallons of advanced biofuels by 2030. Obama will invest federal resources, including tax incentives and government contracts into developing the most promising technologies and building the infrastructure to support them.

Mandate All New Vehicles are Flexible Fuel Vehicles. Sustainably-produced biofuels can create jobs, protect the environment and help end oil addiction - but only if Americans drive cars that will take such fuels. General Motors is the largest producer of flexible fuel vehicles in the United States, and Obama will work with Congress and auto companies to ensure that all new vehicles have FFV capability - the capability by the end of his first term in office.

Volunteer Spotlight

Becky Furgason — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:48:41 EDT

Barack Obama often says, "change doesn't happen from the top down, it happens from the bottom up," his grassroots campaign is living proof of that. All across North Dakota people are getting involved to help bring change to America.

Charlie Bolte is a recent high school graduate who plans to enter into military service with the Navy later this year. In the interim he volunteers at the Minot Campaign for Change office several times per week, making calls for hours on end, spreading Barack's message of hope and change to his fellow North Dakotans.

Charlie says he has always considered himself a Democrat and has supported Barack from the start. Charlies decision to support Barack is largely based on the role of the President in appointing Supreme Court Justices and shaping foreign policy. He feels Obama will have "a more open-minded approach to foreign policy instead of just committing blindly to one policy approach over another."

It is because of volunteers like Charlie that the field campaign is doing so well here in North Dakota. Like Charlie, the vast majority of volunteers in this campaign have never been involved politically before, but have been inspired and empowered by their desire for change and their recognition that they can do something about it.

If you are not already involved, now is the time. There are only 56 days left and there is a lot of work to be done. Everyone of you is needed and each one of you can make a difference. Sign up online to volunteer or stop by a regional field office to find out how you can make a difference.

A Champion for First Americans

Becky Furgason — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 13:14:47 EDT

For the past two months, volunteers and Campaign for Change organizers have been attending pow wows, marching in parades, and participating in a host of other events in tribal communities and on tribal college campuses across the state; a trend that will continue for the next two months. They, most recently, marched in the United Tribes parade yesterday in downtown Bismarck and have a booth set up all weekend long at the United Tribes International Pow Wow. In addition to passing out literature, signs and stickers, volunteers manning the booth are there to answer questions and provide information about Barack and his plans for First Americans' issues.

Micki Lindeman is a student at United Tribes Technical College. Outside of volunteering at the Pow Wow booth, she has been helping to get fellow students involved and educated about Obama. Micki became an Obama supporter after reading his book "Dreams of My Father", prior to his presidential run. She has been following his career and campaign, and remains an avid supporter today. Like many of her fellow students, Micki is concerned about the future of her tribal college and she believes Obama's plan will not leave tribal colleges out as has been the case for years.

"Our college's President has had to fight for funding for the past seven years because we've been left out of the budget. That's kind of scary when you're going to a tribal college, to wonder if it's going to be there the next year. And then this year our President was invited to speak at the Democratic National Convention. It's a huge difference!"

Photos from this weekend

The hundreds of Indian tribes in America face a unique set of challenges. Issues like sovereignty, health care, and education—issues that are central to tribes’ future prosperity and embedded in the federal government’s responsibility—are often neglected. Barack Obama is committed to tribal nation building and enforcing the federal government’s obligations to Indian people.

North Dakota First Americans for Obama, directed by Standing Rock Nation native Jodi Gillette, is committed to getting that message out to the tribal communities in North Dakota.

Five New Locations to Choose From

Becky Furgason — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 22:33:08 EDT

Last night the North Dakota Campaign for Change opened five new offices in North Dakota, bringing the total number of offices across the state to nine and further expanding grassroots organizing efforts on behalf of Senator Obama. The new offices are located in Devils Lake, Williston, Dickinson, Jamestown and a second regional office in Fargo. The excitement of the new locations brought North Dakotans out in droves to attend the grand opening celebrations and to discuss grassroots efforts in their area.

The offices will serve as central organizing locations for campaign activities and grassroots outreach in the area. Open 7 days a week, the offices are a place where North Dakotans can get engaged in volunteer activities and where voters can learn more about Senator Obama, Senator Biden and their agenda to deliver the change we need.

Visit one of the new office locations today!

Fargo
745 45th St. S
Suite B

Jamestown
Buffalo City Mall
Highway 281 S & 25th St SW

Dickinson
41 E. Villard St.
Suite B

Devils Lake
303 5th Ave

Williston
205 Main St.

Visit ND.BarackObama.com/NDOffices for more information on these and other office locations in North Dakota.

Congressman Pomeroy Speaks to Students

Becky Furgason — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:11:42 EDT

College Democrats teamed up with Obama's Campaign for Change this week to host two events with Congressman Earl Pomeroy. Dozens of students showed up to eat and to hear what their elected officials had to say about the political process and this year's election.

In addition to Earl, District 42 State House candidates Cory Mock and Bruce Stanford, State Senate candidate Mac Schneider, and Public Service Commission candidate Cheryl Bergian were on hand to talk to students at the University of North Dakota on Wednesday.

While most of the speakers focused on the rising cost of education, Congressman Pomeroy included energy, the economy and foreign policy in his discussion. He stressed the impact the youth vote can and will have on the outcome of the election here in North Dakota and, consequently, the impact it will have on the national outcome.
Read more >>

Five New Offices Opening this Friday in North Dakota

Becky Furgason — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:08:34 EDT

With the growing support and growing staff, Campaign for Change is adding five new regional field offices to the four currently open and plans to possibly open more.

Since July they have had offices open in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, and Minot and this Friday, September 5th, they are opening new offices in Devils Lake, Dickinson, Jamestown, Williston, and a second office in Fargo.

The new office locations, many of them in rural areas, will provide more people with access to campaign staff and more opportunities to get involved.

Please click here for more information and to RSVP for one of these events

You can find all North Dakota offices on the Office Locationspage.

North Dakota Republicans for Obama

Becky Furgason — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 20:41:58 EDT

Obama for America today announced "North Dakota Republicans for Obama," an organization of committed North Dakota Republicans who are supporting Senator Obama. The organization will spearhead efforts to mobilize support for Barack Obama among Republicans in North Dakota. Senator Obama has developed a broad coalition of support among Democrats, Republicans and Independents in North Dakota who have responded to his message of bringing America together to deliver the change we need.

"I've been a Republican my entire life, but I strongly believe that Senator Obama is a leader who will get our country back on the right track," said Ellen Dehn, a retired small business owner from Hatton, ND. "With the challenges that our middle class families are facing here in North Dakota, this election presents a clear choice: more of the same failed economic policies of the Bush administration or the change we need."

Republicans for Obama is dedicated to the ideal that while we may call ourselves Democrats and Republicans, we are Americans first.

The initial membership of North Dakota Republicans for Obama includes, among others, a Registered Nurse, a former Truck Driver, an Insurance Agent, a Waitress, a Teacher and a retired Postal Worker. While each has their own reasons for supporting the Democratic candidate in this election, they all agree that change needs to be brought to Washington and that Barack Obama and Joe Biden are the ones who can and will bring that change.

All North Dakota Republicans who agree that change needs to be brought to Washington are welcome and encouraged to join. You can learn more about where Barack stands on the issues and sign up to join North Dakota Republicans for Obama at ND.BarackObama.com/ndrepublicans.

This Week on Campus

Becky Furgason — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 11:24:02 EDT

Students for Obama is one of the largest grassroots student organizations in history thanks to the passion and dedication of thousands of students across the country.
Barack has called young people the "backbone" of this campaign and they need every student in North Dakota getting involved; whether you're in High School or College, you can have a major impact on the outcome of this election.

Campaign for Change is co-hosting two events this week with local college Democrats featuring special guest North Dakota Congressman Earl Pomeroy.

Wednesday, September 3rd, Congressman Pomeroy will be on the campus of the University of North Dakota to join students for burgers and s'mores and to speak to them about Barack Obama and the importance of political participation. District 42 State House candidates Cory Mock and Bruce Stanford will be attending the BBQ as well as State Senate candidate Mac Schneider.

The event is planned to begin at 3:30 PM and run for about an hour and a half. Those interested in attending should plan to meet at the Wilkerson Gazebo located outside of Wilkerson Dining Center on campus.

The following day, Thursday, September 4th, Campaign for Change is teaming up with the NDSU College Democrats and Congress Pomeroy for an Ice Cream Social to be held at the Babbling Brook on the NDSU campus in Fargo and is scheduled to begin at 3:30 PM.

Ali Ness, head of the NDSU College Democrats will be introducing Congressman Pomeroy who is scheduled to speak at 4:00 PM. Cheryl Bergian who is currently running for the office of Public Service Commissioner will be attending both events.

Come on out, get some free food, meet some new people and hear Congressman Pomeroy speak. An RSVP is not required, but is recommended.

RSVP for the UND BBQ on Wednesday

RSVP for the NDSU Ice Cream Social on Thursday

Campaign for Change is currently looking for fall interns. It's a great way to spend your fall internship and earn college course credits. You will also learn more about the political process while meeting new people and having a great time. Apply for an internship today!

Weekend of Action Begins Tomorrow

Becky Furgason — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:57:05 EDT

Last night an estimated 38 million people tuned in to watch Barack accept the Democratic nomination. Campaign for Change and Obama supporters hosted numerous House Parties across North Dakota and across America that gave people the opportunity to gather together and share the moment with their community.

This is only the beginning, though, and the campaign is kicking it off with a Weekend of Action this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

Campaign for Change staff and volunteers will be out walking and knocking on doors; reaching out to North Dakota voters and spreading Barack’s message across the state.

The Democratic National Convention created a huge momentum and we need to seize that momentum to mobilize as many voters as possible, starting this weekend.

Your Support and enthusiasm fuels this movement. Come help us continue to build the amazing strength of this grassroots movement.

Find the Weekend of Action event nearest you

Watch Barack's acceptance speech

Organizing for Change

Becky Furgason — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:16:21 EDT

Tomorrow, millions will be watching Barack Obama accept the Democratic Nomination. People across North Dakota and across America will be attending Convention Watch Parties and planning for the Nationwide Weekend of Action that will take place this Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Here in North Dakota, there are nearly 60 House parties planned for Thursday evening and over 100 events planned for the Labor Day weekend. These events are taking place all across the state of North Dakota; from Williston to Wahpeton, from Bottineau to Bismarck. To find the House Party or Weekend of Action event near you, visit ND.BarackObama.com/organizeforchange-bg

This is your opportunity to get involved, this is your moment, seize it!

Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes TC Speaks at the DNC

Becky Furgason — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:42:14 EDT

From the Jamestown Sun:

The president of United Tribes Technical College told delegates to the Democratic National Convention that American Indians are not just another special interest group.
David Gipp, a member of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe, spoke to the convention Tuesday night.
"Every step you take across this great nation, every vista you admire, every city you call by its tribal name, was once Indian Country," he said in his speech. "We paid for our place in advance, with land and blood."
Gipp, who has been the president of the two-year Bismarck college since 1977, said Indian reservations have become pockets of poverty where health care is a disaster, schools need repair and law enforcement officers lack resources.
"American Indians are still here and we're seeking justice for our people," Gipp told the delegates. "We offer the strengths of our spirituality and our connection with Mother Earth in renewing America's promise for all."

Click the image below to watch David Gipp's speech

Click here to read Dr. Gipp's remarks as prepared for delivery

Watch Amanda Kubik Speak at the DNC

Becky Furgason — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 17:38:09 EDT

Last night Amanda Kubik, a Young Delegate from North Dakota spoke at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, CO.

If you missed Amanda's speech last night or would like to watch it again, click on the image below.

Dr. Gipp Chosen as one of the Event's "Everyday Americans" to Address the Convention

Becky Furgason — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:49:31 EDT

TONIGHT: North Dakotan Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes Technical College, to Speak Before Democratic National Convention

On the second day of the Democratic National Convention, between 4:00 – 5:00 PM CT, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, North Dakotan Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes Technical College, will speak before the Democratic National Convention. Native American educator, David Gipp of North Dakota, has spent more than three decades working towards the development of tribal colleges. Gipp is also an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Hunkpapa Lakota (Sioux) Tribe.

Over the last few years, Barack Obama has joined with Americans in every state in this country in a positive campaign for change. The stories of the people he has met throughout this long campaign have inspired Barack Obama and helped to shape the policies he will promote as President. Dr. Gipp was one of a handful of speakers selected to be part of the nightly program who come from across the nation, but they are all brought together through their personal stories, which address real life challenges.

WHO: Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes Technical College and enrolled member of the Standing Rock Hunkpapa Lakota (Sioux) Tribe.
WHERE: Democratic National Convention, Denver, CO
WHEN: Between approximately 4:00 - 5:00 PM CT

Young Delegate from North Dakota Speaks at DNC

Becky Furgason — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:40:45 EDT

The following is a transcript of a speech, as prepared for delivery, by Amanda Kubik, at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, CO on Monday, August 25, 2008:

I am Amanda Kubik. In 1997 I was a high school sophomore in North Dakota. That spring, the Red River flooded its banks and devastated Fargo and Grand Forks. In our saddest and soggiest hour, I saw my generation, my friends, come to life. We’ve moved on from filling sandbags to raising money for a myriad of causes, to signing up for AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. And even serving our country in Iraq and Afghanistan. We feel a sense of urgency to make this country the America we grew up believing in. So when I hear that people doubt the impact of young people, I know they don’t know our powerful potential. But Senator Obama knows. Before the caucuses, the campaign sent staffers to North Dakota. That had never happened before. That team engaged young people, tapping into our potential. Until then, we were unregarded and the result was voter apathy among us. That has changed. Thanks to Barack Obama, young people got involved and found our voices. Across the nation, thousands of students and young professionals are uniting on campuses and in coffee shops, organizing, speaking out and running for local office. We are making our change visible. The victory of Barack Obama and Joe Biden in November may be the first presidential election where the youth vote and our activism play a decisive role, but I guarantee it won’t be the last. We are a generation who grew up believing yes, we can do anything, or as we sometimes say up in Fargo, “Ya sure, ya betcha.” For the better, we young patriots will change our country, and Barack Obama is the change we need to do it.

TONIGHT: North Dakotan Amanda Kubik to Speak Before Democratic National Convention

Becky Furgason — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:17:33 EDT

DENVER, CO – On opening night of the Democratic National Convention, at between approximately 5:30 – 6:00 CT, Monday, August 25, 2008, North Dakotan Amanda Kubik will speak before the Democratic National Convention. Kubik, 27, is the youngest member of the North Dakotan delegation to the convention and will speak about youth issues and involvement in this year’s election.

WHO: Amanda Kubik, Fargo native and Youngest Member of the North Dakota delegation
WHERE: Democratic National Convention, Denver, CO
WHEN: Between Approximately 5:30 - 6:00 PM CT

New Rural Committee Formed

Becky Furgason — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:34:52 EDT

"If America wants change, and I believe it does, we're going to have to do a lot of work between now and election day to manifest that desire for change. We have the opportunity in the next 2 1/2 months to make that change happen." -- ND Senator Byron Dorgan

The Obama Campaign Wednesday announced the creation of "Rural Leaders for Obama," a committee of 40 rural residents of North Dakota, including farmers, teachers, and elected officials from rural communities across the State. The Rural Leaders will lead a statewide effort to communicate to North Dakota's rural communities Barack Obama's plan to strengthen rural America.

The announcement of the committee followed the beginning of the Obama campaign's rural tour in North Dakota, which kicked off with a roundtable discussion in Dickinson with undecided rural voters and Obama supporters, and led by Congressman Earl Pomeroy. The tour continued Wednesday with a roundtable discussion in Bismarck and was followed with events later in the week in Valley City, Jamestown and Minot.

Welcome Joe Biden

Becky Furgason — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 09:57:54 EDT

The text has gone out and it is now official, Barack has chosen Joe Biden to be his running mate.

Please take a moment to share your story with and welcome Joe to the team.

We will share with Joe some of your stories and make sure he gets to know the amazing people who have made this movement possible.

Don't miss the first Obama-Biden rally today at 2:00 pm central time. You can watch it live at www.barackobama.com

Seven Houses

Becky Furgason — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:53:59 EDT

The Obama Campaign, today, launched an ad highlighting how out of touch John McCain is with the struggles of everyday Americans:

John McCain said in an interview yesterday that he’s lost track of how many houses he has.

Think about that: he actually has so many houses that he can’t remember how many he owns.

Every day that goes by, Senator McCain shows just how out of touch he is with the struggles of everyday people—whether it’s offering billions more in tax breaks for the oil companies or declaring that multimillionaires are members of the middle class.

We can’t afford another president who is so far out of touch.

That’s why it’s so important to tell your friends, family, and neighbors more about Barack – who he is and where he stands on the issues that matter most to North Dakotans.

You can make a difference right now by writing a letter to the editor of your local paper and sharing with your community why John McCain is simply out-of-touch with the struggles of everyday people and why Barack is right on the economy and right for North Dakota.

Our online tool makes it easier than ever to make your voice heard. Make a difference and write a letter to the editor today.

Farm Bill Discussion At Local Family Farm

Becky Furgason — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:54:56 EDT

On Friday, August 15, 2008, farmer-legislators State Representative Chris Griffin (D-ND) and State Senator Keith Langseth (D-MN) joined family farmers Jacob Gust and Barbara Olive at their farm outside of Fargo to discuss, with local and agricultural media, Senator Barack Obama's plan to protect upper Midwestern farmers.

Speaking first, Senator Langseth noted that the Farm Bill is the single most important item a President will have influence over that affects people here in the Red River Valley. He said that between 2001 and 2007 the economic impact of the Farm Bill was indisputable, enabling farmers to receive vital support for rural facilities, housing, water and waste water, nutrition and commodity, conservation, and disaster. After stating that Barack Obama supports the Farm Bill and strong policies that will benefit rural America, he turned it over to Representative Griffin.

Be a Part of the Team

Becky Furgason — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:30:51 EDT

Campaign for Change is currently working to build their North Dakota Campaign for Change Obama Teams. The Obama Teams will more fully empower volunteers who wish to take on a larger role with the campaign. The Obama Teams will work closely with Campaign for Change staff to recruit and manage volunteers as well as reach out to North Dakota voters by making phone calls and knocking on doors using the Neighbor to Neighbor online tool.

They are looking to put teams in place statewide with each team consisting of five different roles: The Team Leader coordinates the team and communicates with the organizer. The phone bank captain will be responsible for phone banks while the canvassing captain will be responsible for canvasses. The data/staging captain is responsible for entering data and may be asked to assist in locating staging areas for canvasses and phone banks. And no team is complete without team members. Team members will participate in canvasses and/or phone banks helping to recruit new team members and reach out to voters. All teams are provided with the training and support they will need to do their job effectively.

Today, one such training took place at the Campaign for Change office in Fargo, led by Campaign for Change staff and attended by nine volunteers eager to learn how they can help not only Barack Obama win the White House, but help all North Dakota Democratic candidates up and down the ticket.

Most Campaign for Change trainings and meetings kick off by allowing attendees to introduce themselves, share why they support Senator Obama and what has inspired them to become involved; this training was no exception, neither was the variety of reason for their support and involvement.

North Dakotan Picked as one of 10 Voters Nationwide to Go Backstage with Barack

Becky Furgason — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:22:48 EDT

Press Release

FARGO, ND— The presidential campaign of U.S. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) announced today the 10 voters who will be “Backstage with Barack” at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. The 10 people chosen from supporters across the country will be flown to Denver with a guest to meet Senator Obama backstage at INVESCO Field at Mile High on the final night of the convention.
Kayla Whitaker, 20, of Fargo, North Dakota, first became interested in politics last November when she learned about Barack Obama. An Evangelical Christian, Kayla was interested in learning more about Senator Obama’s faith, and watched Obama’s “Call to Renewal” speech about religion and politics on the website. Barack Obama’s commitment to his faith and his open mind about changing our world inspired her, for the first time in her life, to become involved in politics. A college student, Kayla’s top issues in this election are healthcare, education, and clean energy.

Join Campaign for Change Thursday, August 28th at one of the many Convention Watch Parties taking place around the state.

For more information on attending or hosting a Convention Watch Party, visit my.barackobama.com

Be the First to Know Barack's VP

Becky Furgason — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:26:27 EDT

Today, Campaign Manager David Plouffe sent out the following email:

Barack Obama is about to make one of the most important decisions of this campaign -- choosing a running mate.

You have helped build this movement from the bottom up, and Barack wants you to be the first to know his choice.Sign up today to be the first to know:

http://my.barackobama.com/vp

You will receive an email the moment Barack makes his decision, or you can text VP to 62262 to receive a text message on your mobile phone.

Once you've signed up, please forward this email to your friends, family, and coworkers to let them know about this special opportunity.

No other campaign has done this before. You can be part of this important moment.

Be the first to know who Barack selects as his running mate.

Thanks,

David

Campaign for Change launches a Letters to the Editor Program

Becky Furgason — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 11:59:23 EDT

Spread the Word!

North Dakota Campaign for Change has launched a Letters to the Editor program called "Your Voice". This is an opportunity for supporters in North Dakota to talk about the issues they are most passionate about and most affected by and why they think Obama is the best candidate to address those issues.

Writing a letter to the editor of local and regional North Dakota newspapers can be a very effective way to get the message out there, and to inspire others in the community by sharing your own personal story.

The online tool makes it easy to send your letter. It provides talking points and a step-by-step process of sending your letter out any of four North Dakota newspapers.

Make your voice heard and help continue to build the amazing strength of this grassroots campaign, write your letter today!

Use our online tool and help us reach out to your local community.

Meet Your North Dakota Campaign for Change Staff

Becky Furgason — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:30:41 EDT

This week Campaign for Change staff from across the state gathered in Fargo for a two day training where, among a host of other things, they learned more about recruiting and working with volunteers, and building North Dakota Campaign for Change Obama Teams.

Fargo resident, Dan Hannaher gave the group a more personal insight into North Dakota history and culture and explained why their being here is so important for North Dakota.

Barack Obama's Campaign for Change employs staffers statewide in North Dakota. A presence unprecedented in the state for a political campaign of any party. While the state's four largest cities of Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Minot serve as campaign headquarters, there are plans to open additional satellite offices in some of the less urban areas of the state, giving more people easier access to Campaign for Change staff and more opportunities to get involved. To find up-to-date information on Regional Campaign for Change office locations in North Dakota, visit the office location page.

The Campaign for Change staffers are excited to be in the state, and look forward to working closely with local North Dakota supporters in their efforts to get Barack Obama elected as the next President of the United States in November. Stop by a Campaign for Change office near you or sign up online to stay informed and find out how you can help.

If you think you might be interested in joining a North Dakota Campaign for Change Obama Team, you can learn more about the various team roles and sign up to join your local team at my.barackobama.com/ndobamateams

Celebrate Barack's Birthday with Campaign for Change

Becky Furgason — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 14:06:24 EDT

Join fellow supporters and Campaign for Change staff for birthday cake and phone banking tomorrow, August 4th, in celebration of Senator Obama's 47th birthday.

Campaign for Change staff will be hosting birthday parties at offices across the state. To find the office nearest you visit my.barackobama.com/ndoffices.

Click here to RSVP for one of these events

For more information, visit my.barackobama.com

Campaign for Change Office in Minot Celebrates Grand Opening

Becky Furgason — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:38:57 EDT

Dozens of people filed into the Campaign for Change office in Minot yesterday to attend their grand opening.

District 3 Representative, Lisa Wolf, was the guest speaker. She told the crowd how prior to the caucus, she was really torn between Barack and Hillary, but decided to support Barack.

"I started doing a lot of research on both of the candidates, and they're very similar in their beliefs, but the one thing with Obama that really stood out to me was the fact that he does not take corporate money and he does not take PAC money; so he will not be tied in to corporations and things like that when he is elected President of the United States...that impressed me a lot because I know how hard it is to raise money for campaigns."

She said Barack's visit put North Dakota on the map and expressed her excitement about the presence of Campaign for Change staff:

"To have the Obama crew here, working to turn North Dakota into a blue state is so incredibly exciting. It's a fantastic opportunity for us. It's about time ND matters."

Friday Night Live in Bismarck

Becky Furgason — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 20:49:55 EDT

Friday Night Live is a chance for students in the Bismarck-Mandan area to get together with people who share similar beliefs, values and hopes for the future. This week, the state's Youth Vote Director, Kate Fendler, will be coming in from Fargo to speak about internships and much more. For those of you who came last week, come AGAIN and bring two friends!

Photos from last Friday

The Details:
What: Friday Night Live
Where: The Bismarck Campaign for Change office
3333 E Broadway Ave, Suite 1206
Bismarck, ND
701-255-1155
When: Every Friday at 4pm

An RSVP is not required, but is suggested. To RSVP, visit my.barackobama.com/FridayNightLive

Pride Fest 2008

Becky Furgason — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:00:31 EDT

This past weekend, Campaign For Change volunteers and staff attended Pride Fest 2008 at Eagle's Park in Bismarck. The event itself had a higher than expected turnout and many of those who attended took the time to stop by the Campaign For Change table to get more information about Senator Obama and his LGBT policies, learn about volunteer opportunities and declare their support for Barack by signing a supporter card.

Corey, one of the event's organizers talked to me about his hope's in a future President, why they hold Pride events and why he supports Barack Obama:

"I think it's time to get a Democrat back in office who's going to be a little more respectful of people's rights and civil rights and hopefully do away with some of the discrimination we've all been dealing with for so long. That's one of the reasons we get together here every summer, because it's a place where we don't get discriminated against, everyone can be who they are; it's why we all come out and do the hard work. We want it to be like that for everyone. I think Obama is the person who will be able to get the boat rowing on that. I'm ready to do away with "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

By the end of the day, a significant number of people were sporting Obama Pride stickers, the campaign had identified a large number of supporters and recruited more enthusiastic volunteers.

More photos from this event can be seen here

For more information about LGBT issues visit pride.barackobama.com

Download Obama's HRC questionnaire

Minot Office Opening Tonight

Becky Furgason — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:39:27 EDT

Join Campaign For Change tonight for the grand opening of the office in Minot. Meet fellow supporters and learn how you can get involved.

Here are the details
Doors open at 5:30pm
Minot Campaign For Change Office
1602 4th Ave NW
Minot, ND
701.852.1198

An RSVP is not required, but is recommended. To RSVP for this event, visit my.barackobama.com/MinotOffice

Helping Shape America

Becky Furgason — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:40:20 EDT

Every four years, the Democratic Party meets to put together the platform that outlines the Party's position on various issues. In the past, these meetings were closed to the public. This year, however, ordinary citizens were invited to take part in this important process by planning, hosting and attending "Platform Meetings" and from these discussions, submit the group's ideas and recommendations for the 2008 platform to the Obama Platform Team.
People all across the country took advantage of the opportunity to help shape the Democratic Party Platform and the future of America.

Langdon, ND is an unlikely location for a Democratic Platform Meeting. Langdon is home to around 2500 people and is a very red county. But even in Langdon, where the local paper is the Cavalier County Republican, they managed to find a good crowd of Democrats for a platform meeting.

North Dakota Veteran's Committee for Obama Formed

Becky Furgason — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:06:08 EDT

In a press conference today at the Fargo Campaign For Change office, local Veterans, Bill Anderson and Bill Hejl announced the formation of the North Dakota Veteran's Committee for Obama. The group's main goal, as Bill Hejl put it, "is getting North Dakota to vote for Senator Obama for President," and to make sure that veterans in North Dakota understand that Senator Obama supports veterans.

Each of them took a moment to talk about issues facing today's veterans and why they believe Senator Obama is the best candidate to address those issues.

Bill Anderson started by both honoring Senator McCain's service and chastising his campaign's recent actions:

"As I'm sure you're all aware, the McCain campaign has recently started a series of negative and misleading campaign ads concerning Senator Obama's commitment to our troops and to our national security. First of all I'd like to say that as a veteran, I honor Senator McCain's service to our country, but I think that we need to set the record straight. I have always believed, and I want to still believe, that Senator McCain is an honorable man, but right now, the actions of his campaign are not honorable and they're not honest."

"A World that Stands as One"

Becky Furgason — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:50:09 EDT

Remarks of Senator Barack Obama (as prepared for delivery)

“A World that Stands as One”

July 24th, 2008

Berlin, Germany

Thank you to the citizens of Berlin and to the people of Germany. Let me thank Chancellor Merkel and Foreign Minister Steinmeier for welcoming me earlier today. Thank you Mayor Wowereit, the Berlin Senate, the police, and most of all thank you for this welcome.

I come to Berlin as so many of my countrymen have come before. Tonight, I speak to you not as a candidate for President, but as a citizen – a proud citizen of the United States, and a fellow citizen of the world.

I know that I don’t look like the Americans who’ve previously spoken in this great city. The journey that led me here is improbable. My mother was born in the heartland of America, but my father grew up herding goats in Kenya. His father – my grandfather – was a cook, a domestic servant to the British.

At the height of the Cold War, my father decided, like so many others in the forgotten corners of the world, that his yearning – his dream – required the freedom and opportunity promised by the West. And so he wrote letter after letter to universities all across America until somebody, somewhere answered his prayer for a better life.

That is why I’m here. And you are here because you too know that yearning. This city, of all cities, knows the dream of freedom. And you know that the only reason we stand here tonight is because men and women from both of our nations came together to work, and struggle, and sacrifice for that better life.

Ours is a partnership that truly began sixty years ago this summer, on the day when the first American plane touched down at Templehof.

On that day, much of this continent still lay in ruin. The rubble of this city had yet to be built into a wall. The Soviet shadow had swept across Eastern Europe, while in the West, America, Britain, and France took stock of their losses, and pondered how the world might be remade.

Read full speech >>

Grand Opening in Fargo

Becky Furgason — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:08:05 EDT

Campaign For Change Staff and volunteers were joined today by fellow supporters, the press and the curious at the Fargo office grand opening, the third so far in the state.

After signing in, people were asked to share why they support Senator Obama by writing them on the "I Support Barack Obama Because" banner that takes up an entire wall.
Several did take advantage of the opportunity which resulted in a potpourri of sentiments:

"He inspires me to work for a better future for our country"

"Because he has a thoughtful and inclusive approach to problem solving"

"Because he will restore the U.S.A. image in the global arena"

"He inspires me to work for others as he has always done"

"I feel he is the candidate who will listen to my point of view"

"Freedom from special interest influence"

"He will make our country a better place for my son to grow up"

"He will save the economy"

"He not only says that ND is not a flyover state - he has shown that belief by visiting twice and by sending such great staffers in the Primary season and now for the election"

Grand Forks, grand opening

Becky Furgason — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:12:33 EDT

Last night Barack Obama's Campaign For Change held the grand opening of their Grand Forks regional office.

Guest speaker, District 42's Senatorial candidate, Mac Schneider stressed the significance of the campaign's presence in North Dakota, "For the first time since 1964, North Dakota is in the game". He went on to talk about how polling numbers and historical voter turnout leads him to believe this race could come down to only a couple thousand votes and the impact each person can have on the outcome of the Presidential election here in North Dakota.

"It's the only campaign with paid staff here in North Dakota, 50 paid staffers across the state all trying to reach voters in every single county, every single town; wherever people want change, they're going to be there. But they can't do it alone; so, a couple of thousand people, what does that mean? It means you're going to have to talk to your friends, you're going to have to talk to the people who sit next to you in church, you're going to have to knock on doors, make phone calls, get absentee ballots and early vote applications to students who wouldn't otherwise know they can vote in North Dakota. And I think if you do that, North Dakota is going to be in a lot better shape; we're going to wake up on Nov 5th and we're going to see Senator Obama make history. And we're all going to feel pretty proud of ourselves too because we've done our little part to make this country just a little bit better."

Visit Campaign For Change at the North Dakota State Fair in Minot

Becky Furgason — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:54:17 EDT

This past Saturday, July 19th, Obama supporters joined Campaign For Change volunteers and staffers to march in the North Dakota State Fair Parade, sign up new supporters, recruit new volunteers and pass out Obama signs, stickers and buttons.

Photos from the parade

They also have a table set up in Community Building 3 where they will be available all week to answer your questions and to show you how you can get involved. If you have not yet had a chance, stop by, say HI, sign up and pick yourself up some Obama gear.

If you can't make it to the State Fair, you can stop by your local Campaign For Change office. Click here to find the office nearest you.

To find other supporters and events near you, visit my.barackobama.com

Bismarck office holds Grand Opening

Becky Furgason — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:49:38 EDT

Yesterday, in Bismarck, was the first official opening of a Campaign For Change office in North Dakota. Over 100 supporters, volunteers, elected officials and Campaign For Change staffers were in attendance.

Among the crowd was Jimmy Carter, who, at 60 years old, has never been involved politically before, but has been inspired to donate his time by volunteering for the campaign. Jimmy, like so many of us, believes this country is in desperate need of change and he is putting his words into action by volunteering a few hours per week, making phone calls and helping to enter data, and plans to continue his involvement right up to November 4th.

The upcoming event was covered in the local newspaper and caught the eye of Una. A couple days ago Una wasn't even sure if she was going to vote, but since stopping by the Campaign For Change office is now a dedicated volunteer who loves canvassing and is dedicated to voting for Senator Obama on November 4th.

He's the only one I trust to make a change. And I think America needs a change.

The Bismarck Regional Field Director, Kate, introduced the special guest speaker, District 35's Senator Tracy Potter. Senator Potter began by pointing out the historical significance of this campaign:

This has never happened before in North Dakota, what we're seeing here today. No presidential campaign ever committed to win North Dakota, never opened an office in North Dakota.

Attend A Campaign For Change Office Opening

Becky Furgason — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:15:36 EDT

Barack Obama's Campaign for Change is opening offices across the state of North Dakota. Show your support by attending one of these events.

Office openings will be at the following locations:

Fargo
107 Roberts St N
Fargo, ND 58102
Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at 6:00 PM
View map

Bismarck
3333 E Broadway Ave, Suite 1206
Bismarck, ND 58501
Thursday, July 17, 2008 at 6:00 PM
View map

Minot
1602 4th Ave NW
Minot, ND 58703
Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 5:30 PM
View map

Grand Forks
2750 Gateway Dr, Suite F
Grand Forks, ND 58203
Tuesday, July 22, 2008 at 6:30 PM
View map

RSVP Today

District 24 Picnic

Becky Furgason — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:25:58 EDT

Today marked the 11th annual District 24 Potluck-Picnic at Little Yellowstone Park and the first time anyone affiliated with a Presidential campaign was in attendance. Little Yellowstone park was chosen for it's location, approximately midway between Valley City and Lisbon.

After a group photo and a potluck style lunch, District Chair, Britt Jacobson, kicked off the program by welcoming those in attendance and introducing the first speaker, nine year old Sam Jenson. Sam devoted part of his speech to addressing the war in Iraq

For about 5, 6 years now the troops have been in Iraq, not with Barack Obama. As he says 'My first job is to keep you safe'. Letting people die in Iraq is not keeping us safe.

When questioned why he supports Barack, he responded,

Because I care about this country and I care what happens to it.

Join Campaign For Change at Urban Harvest

Becky Furgason — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:29:06 EDT

Urban Harvest is a culturally enriched outdoor marketplace that promotes local business. It was started in 2005 by 4 North Dakotan women. For more information about Urban Harvest you can check out the website: http://www.bismarckurbanharvest.org/

This summer marks the fourth season of Urban Harvest. The event takes place every Thursday from July 10 through August 14 in downtown Bismarck. The open-air market features a variety of local artists, crafters, food vendors, farmers and entertainers. Urban Harvest is located in Downtown Bismarck, on the corner of 4th and Broadway, market hours are 10:00am to 8:00pm. While you're there, check out the Urban Harvest stage which offers a full day of local entertainment and an evening concert series from 6:00-9:30pm.

Tomorrow, Thursday, July 10th, and every other Thursday through August 14th, we will have Field Organizers from Senator Barack Obama's Campaign for Change present with information on how to get involved with the campaign, all day from 10:00am - 8:00pm. We are excited to meet local supporters and to help you get active in the campaign. Look for the people decked out in Obama gear toting clip boards. We look forward to meeting you all tomorrow.

Campaign for Change Celebrates July 4th Weekend Across North Dakota

Becky Furgason — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 20:19:34 EDT

This July 4th weekend volunteers and staff attended celebrations across North Dakota and Western Minnesota. Dozens of volunteers and staff attend parades and festivals in Fargo/Moorhead, Jamestown, Grand Forks/East Grand Forks, Mandan and Dickinson locating supporters, recruiting new volunteers and talking to people about Obama.

Photos from this weekend:

We have four months and several events to go and we need your help. Join North Dakota For Obama today and be a part of history.

Obama speaks to Veterans in Fargo

Becky Furgason — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:18:58 EDT

As Independence Day approaches, Senator Obama, today, spoke to Veterans in North Dakota at the Children's Museum at Yunker Farm in Fargo . While the event was small and town hall in nature, it was also open to the public.

Retired Veteran Bill Anderson who served in Vietnam, announced the Senator. He got the event started off on a lighter note

Any man who carries his own jackknife is worth a dollar more. Well, Secret Service has my jackknife, I guess they're due for a raise.

He talked about how, in Vietnam, we fought in a conflict that need not have been fought and likened that to the current war in Iraq. He spoke of Barack being a champion for Veterans. He said Obama will treat them fair and back the GI Bill of Rights helping to propel the VA into the 21st century.

Barack spoke of the sacrifice of servicemen and women,

Their sacrifice has made possible the freedom that we enjoy. And keeping faith with those who serve must always be a core American value and a cornerstone of American patriotism. Because America's commitment to its servicemen and women begins at enlistment, and it must never end...These sons and daughters of America are the best and the bravest among us. When our troops go into battle, they serve no faction or party; they represent no race or region. They are simply Americans. They serve and fight and bleed together out of loyalty not just to a place on a map or a certain kind of people, but to a set of ideals that we have been striving for since the first shots rang out at Lexington and Concord - the idea that America could be governed not by men, but by laws; that we could be equal in the eyes of those laws; that we could be free to say what we want and write what we want and worship as we please; that we could have the right to pursue our individual dreams, but the obligation to help our fellow citizens pursue theirs.

He also spoke of his commitment to those who so bravely served and those who are currently serving as outlined in his pledge to build a 21st century VA as President.

You can read his full remarks here.

What makes an event successful are the people who attend it. The supporters and the curious alike. Although our stories, our beliefs, our struggles and our concerns may differ, they also bring us together, as they did today.

Among those in attendance was Randy, an Air Force Veteran, having served 23 years. Randy was initially a John Edwards supporter, but started leaning towards Senator Obama after learning more about him and where he stands on the issues. When asked what brought him here today, Randy said,

I want to hear him speak today to solidify in my mind that I made the right choice.

With Randy was Dorothy, what really impressed her was walking into the campaign office and seeing all the youth, of all different backgrounds and all different ethnicities. Dorothy said, “The youth have to be involved for things to change.”

We're Back

Becky Furgason — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:45:39 EDT

We're fired up!

and

We're ready to go!

It's been less than four weeks since Barack became the presumptive Democratic nominee, and we've already made huge strides towards the general election: staff and offices in 21 states, 134 campaign offices open across the country and nearly 1,000 field staff on the ground.

The first wave of campaign staff has returned to North Dakota, and we'll be up and running shortly. In the meantime, you can keep up to date with news and updates by signing up for North Dakota for Obama.

Becky Furgason's Blog

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We're Back