Caitlin Harvey's Blog

New Mexico Office Spotlight: Alamogordo

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:21:14 EDT

Continuing our tour of our offices in New Mexico, today we're spotlighting our office in Alamogordo.

Faina, our local organizer in Alamogordo, explains what inspired her to become involved in the campaign:

I always prided myself on being apathetic when it came to politics. I felt very detached from our government and never bothered to find out exactly how politics affects our lives on a daily basis. To me, our government was always the entity that dealt with matters that I could not relate to, such as foreign policy and trade. I never deeply cared for the rest of the world, I was more concerned with things that I thought directly affected me. I began slowly growing out of that mindset when a friend opened my eyes to the importance of bettering the world around you through bettering yourself. I began seeing the importance of political activism, and became interested in the presidential races that were coming up.

I read The Audacity of Hope after the same friend told me about Barack Obama’s speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. The book really impressed me in how easy it was to read and understand, especially for somebody like me. I started getting very excited about Barack’s candidacy, and was even toying with the idea of getting involved with the campaign. I decided to attend a rally in Washington Square Park in September, and it blew me away. It was attended by over 24,000 New Yorkers, of every color and background, and what amazed me the most, was that all these people were coming together for a cause. I realized the concrete possibility of bettering our world, not just through Barack’s proposals, but through ourselves. Barack’s ability to bring people together is what inspired and motivated me to volunteer.

I walked into a local office in October, and have not been able to walk out. We registered voters in New York City, braved the snow and the freezing weather in Iowa and New Hampshire, and knocked on doors in sunny Texas. Our grassroots efforts continued through June, and we followed each primary election with bated breath, and it never ceased to amaze us at how many people were watching as intently as we were.

Now I am organizing in Alamogordo, New Mexico and it has been an honor to meet and work with a group that has been organizing here for years. I have gotten a chance to talk to Democrats, Republicans and Independents, all of whom are yearning for the change that this country so desperately needs. The volunteers in Otero County have been working nonstop, making phone calls, knocking on doors, writing letters, and talking to everyone they know about why they support Barack Obama. This county has not voted for a Democrat decades, but we know that now, more than ever, is the time to turn New Mexico blue.

Find your local office and stop by to see how you can become involved in your community today!

"A Dream Come True"

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:17:10 EDT

From the New Mexico Independent:

ALBUQUERQUE -- Teresa Brito-Asenap was New Mexico’s surprise motivational speaker in the final minutes leading up to Barack Obama’s acceptance speech last Thursday night.
But lost in much of the coverage of the speech by the newly minted Democratic presidential nominee -- before a crowd of about 84,000 in person and some 38 million more watching on TV -- was a telling bit of campaign strategy.
The historic event was also a historic organizing opportunity. That wasn’t lost on Brito-Asenap, a long-time educator and South Valley native who’s currently the director of the Albuquerque Public Schools Center for Extended Learning. That’s because she also happened to serve as a leader with Albuquerque Interfaith, perhaps New Mexico’s most effective community organizing outfit, for over a dozen years.
“When I got involved with the campaign several weeks ago, I started doing the things I know best: organizing people and listening to their stories,” Brito-Asenap told the Independent in an interview on her way back to Albuquerque. In her two minute, fifteen second speech, she emphasized her own story as a way to highlight two of Obama’s education initiatives – and to organize support for them.
Read the full article.

Do you have photos or a great story from your trip to the Convention? Email us at newmexico@barackobama.com!

New Mexico Office Spotlight: Nob Hill area of Albuquerque

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:14:45 EDT

Continuing our tour of our offices in New Mexico, today we're spotlighting our office in the Nob Hill area of Albuquerque.

Paul, a volunteer in our Nob Hill office, explains what motivated him to become involved in Barack's campaign for change:

I was a disciple of super conservative Barry Goldwater; however, the failed presidency of Bush and the disgusting "Swift Boating" negative attacks in the 2004 election created my passion for a "change" in Washington.

While visiting Borders bookstore in Albuquerque, I read a book entitled "Meet the Candidates" about the primary contenders. A mini-bio of Barack Obama stated there was no one in the U.S. Senate that could express himself as well as Barack. Impressed, I read his first book, "Dreams From My Father." Further impressed, I read his second book, "The Audacity of Hope".

I have to admit that Barack's election as President of Harvard Law's Law Review by itself is remarkable. That achievement is esoteric -- only an active or former law student can appreciate its significance. I went to the Internet to inquire about Barack -- then it happened. A group of dedicated field organizers introduced me to New Mexico's importance as a swing state.

I was called so many times that I became embarrassed that I was not in Barack's campaign office making phone calls or knocking on doors to accomplish something I WANTED.

I joined -- I was trained -- I continue to train -- my enthusiasm has accelerated. I badger them for perfection (upon reflection - I guess I have a runaway enthusiasm for change). I continue to train, phone bank, and knock on doors.

The energy of the office is intoxicating. Volunteers, like me, make calls, prepare packets for weekend canvasses, and enter data, transforming an old blues joint into a buzzing center of hope.

I feel good at the end of each day of vote getting. If we accomplish a real change I know it will be party because of my work. Every day I spend with my field organizer, André, I know we have made a difference.

At my neighborhood training, I was taught techniques to accomplish my goal of electing Barack Obama to the White House. The staff is also well trained, but they are also moral. Unlike "Swift Boating," the field organizers insist on simple, accurate, logic, not negative tactics.

I am glad I work with these advocates for a sensible government.

Get involved today by stopping by your local office to find out how you can make a difference in your community!

Convention Watch Parties and Weekend of Action

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:13:43 EDT

Last night, the New Mexico Campaign for Change hosted 142 watch parties across the state, where supporters gathered in homes and offices to watch as Barack Obama accepted the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. Here are photos from some of our watch parties:

Now that the Convention is over, it's time to take action in your community! This weekend, the New Mexico Campaign for Change will be hosting a statewide voter registration drive as part our Weekend of Action. Turn your enthusiasm into action and help build our momentum by joining a statewide canvass near you this weekend!

Tonight: Join Your Neighbors at a Watch Party

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 12:48:36 EDT

Tonight will be an historic night as Barack Obama accepts the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. Here is what some New Mexicans said about the opportunity to attend this historic speech at Invesco Stadium in Denver:

Thank you so much. You ROCK. I’ll be the 65 year old Grandma for OBAMA. You have made my day.

-Marjorie

It is the dream of a lifetime to be there when someone like Barack Obama will be nominated. I have witnessed lynchings in my lifetime. Thank God we have been given this chance to restore the opportunity to your generation we have so foolishly squandered for so long. A chance to see the bond between the veteran and his leader restored.

Thanks for everything. I will be at Invesco Field, wild horses couldn't keep me away.

-Mark

We are very grateful for the opportunity to see the speech and I am especially grateful for my daughter's sake because this is something she will remember for the rest of her life. This is history in the making and so exciting. We will take plenty of pictures everywhere and we will send them to you when we get back.

Thank you so much.

-Lynn

Just because you're not in Denver, doesn't mean you can't join in this historic moment. Supporters from all over New Mexico have opened their homes to share tonight's historic speech with fellow supporters in their communities.

Find a Convention Watch Party near you and join your neighbors in watching Barack accept the nomination.

Be sure to send photos from your watch party to newmexico@barackobama.com!

New Mexico Office Spotlight: Santa Fe

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:15:28 EDT

On Monday, we began a series of blog posts that will highlight each of our offices in New Mexico. Today, we're highlighting our office in Santa Fe.

Here is an account of working in the Santa Fe office from local Field Organizer Zoe:

As I write, there are about 30 people in our office on the phones, recruiting for our statewide canvass this weekend. What is so impressive is that the people in this office represent the many sides of Santa Fe. In our office now, I see my volunteer, Cathi, who lives in the mountains outside of Santa Fe. Cathi is over 60 years old and is soft spoken and shy. She is phone banking because, for the first time, she is inspired to become politically active. Barack Obama has inspired her. Sitting next to her is Willy, her neighbor who she met at a house meeting a month ago in their neighborhood.
Sabina is sitting at the table next to them. She is a 17 year old volunteer who, although she isn’t old enough to vote yet, is in the office every day after school volunteering. Emilia, also a local Field Organizer, is sitting with one of her neighborhood team members, making calls with them. This happens every day here -- volunteers come in and interact with this office’s strong community. Virginia owns a hair salon two doors down, and her daughters come in every day to help organize youth meetings and enter data. Virginia will be chopping all my hair off tomorrow! Ken and his wife are retired; they canvass for us every weekend and always come back with a full report on how the day went. My cousin Louis is training a woman right now on Virtual Phonebank. He was always a really shy guy, who has been transformed as he has taken ownership of his contribution to the campaign.
This office is a community. People walk in off the street, never having stepped foot in our office before, and they are welcomed warmly. These are the people who keep coming back to volunteer, because they feel that they are a part of this movement. That is how Kai became part of our team, and now she is a Field Organizer!
This campaign is about organizing communities, empowering and including people in the political process that have never been involved before. It is about respecting all the differences that characterize Americans, and embracing those differences. Our office embodies these ideals. I am honored to be organizing in my hometown, and I am lucky to be working in such a motivated office with such wonderful people all united in one common cause -- electing Barack Obama. Everyone here has a different story, but we are together because we are moved by a common urgency to change this country.

Find the office nearest you and get involved today!

Join Our Weekend of Action

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 22:04:59 EDT

Adrian Saenz, New Mexico State Director, just sent out this email:

Dear Caitlin,

Join the Weekend of Action in New Mexico In just two days, Barack Obama will accept the Democratic nomination for president before a crowd of more than 75,000 people in Denver and millions of Americans watching from home.

That's why it's so important we use this moment to introduce as many people as possible to Barack -- who he is and where he stands on the issues that matter most to New Mexicans.

This weekend, the New Mexico Campaign for Change will be hosting a statewide voter registration drive as part our Weekend of Action.

We'll be canvassing in every corner of the state, carrying vote-by-mail applications from door to door and showing New Mexicans how easy it is to vote by mail.

Turn your enthusiasm into action and help build our momentum by joining a statewide canvass near you this weekend.

The last eight years have been devastating for families in New Mexico, and we can't afford four more years of Bush-McCain policies.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden will bring about the change we need and transform our politics. But that requires bringing as many new voters as possible into the process -- and we need your help to do it.

You can make a difference in your community by taking part in the canvass, registering people to vote and showing people how easy it is to vote by mail.

No previous experience is required. Campaign for Change staff will provide you with everything you need, every step of the way.

Sign up now to help New Mexicans make their voices heard:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMwoa

We can't do this without you.

Thanks,

Adrian

Adrian Saenz
New Mexico State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- Share your story of why you are supporting the Obama-Biden ticket, and the change they can bring to New Mexico, by writing a letter to the editor of your local paper.

Get started with our online letter-to-the-editor tool, which makes it easier than ever to make your voice heard:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMbiden

New Mexico Office Spotlight: Las Cruces

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 21:25:24 EDT

Every few days from now until November 4, we'll be profiling the hard work of our staff and volunteers in each of our offices in New Mexico.

Today, we're profiling our office in Las Cruces.

Here what one Neighborhood Team leader had to say about working in the Las Cruces office:

The Las Cruces Office is a really special place. An office filled with seven Obama staffers and constant volunteers, it offers a wonderful and welcoming feel to anyone who comes in. Students fill in every night to plan their activities for the next day, organizers line themselves along the phone banking tables every night for "Call Time" - during which bells are constantly ringing, for supporters who are found.
When the bells ring, everyone cheers and the Mamas For Obama's little babies smile and laugh. Republicans, Independents, those who feel as though they have been left out of not only the political process their entire lives, but also feel as though they have never had a community to which they belong, come in everyday and are treated with the same respect as all the Obama staffers in the office. It is really a family here, we eat meals together - as people with full time jobs bring us food daily. We all jump on Regional Conference calls at the end of the night and share our "up" of the day, the moment during the day that made us smile and reminded us why we continue to do this job, day in and day out.
I started off walking into a Neighborhood Team Training and basically haven't left the office since. My Field Organizer has empowered me to take on the role of Team Leader within my neighborhood Team. This past weekend, I led our team canvasses and will lead team phone banks and watch parties this upcoming week. When I began a month ago, I was worried when and how other people were going to get involved.
What impresses me most is the constant retention of excitement among the volunteers and the increase in people getting involved daily. This constant energy and excitement keeps me going and anyone going on a bad day. There are thermometers on the walls, which remind us of our progress and our goals. I know we will reach them because everyday the Obama Las Cruces office reminds me of why we are doing this and how with dedication, spirit and a sense of community - we can make this state go blue.

We need your help -- get involved today! Find the office nearest you and stop on by!

Camp Obama New Mexico

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:08:24 EDT

This weekend, over 100 New Mexicans attended Camp Obama New Mexico in Albuquerque, a Hispanic community leadership training. The training was led by Marshall Ganz, professor of community organizing at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and former United Farm Workers organizer, along with national and local campaign staff.

Participants each took turns telling their personal stories about what motivated them to become involved in Barack Obama's Campaign for Change. Then, organizers helped local leaders empower themselves with the skills to mobilize voters in their New Mexico communities.

Special guest Governor Bill Richardson fired up the crowd Saturday morning and spoke about the importance of getting involved in your community.

He said:

Talk to your neighbors about why you were motivated to become involved.
...We need to win Hispanic voters. It won't be by T.V. ads. It will be you out on the streets talking to your neighbors. You're the most important foot soldiers.
...Our task is to get Hispanics to know Obama. They will see someone like themselves.

Someone asked Governor Richardson about Barack's decision to choose Joe Biden to be his running mate. Governor Richardson responded:

It shows Obama making strong decisions. There has to be a trust -- they get along really well...You need someone with experience. Joe Biden is Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee. No one has more foreign policy experience than Biden.

Check out a slideshow of pictures from the weekend:

It's not too late to get involved in your community! Join a Neighborhood Team!

New Mexicans Welcome Joe Biden to the Team

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 17:09:54 EDT

Since the campaign announced that Joe Biden would be Barack's running mate early yesterday morning, people across New Mexico have been sharing their excitment and welcoming him to the team. Here are some of the messages that people have sent Joe:

Emily in Albuquerque:

Dear Senator Biden,

Welcome to the Campaign! I am thrilled that Barack Obama has chosen you as his running mate for this most historic and exciting Presidential election!

Once again, Senator Obama has proven that he not only realizes that change needs to take place; more importantly, he knows how to make that change happen.

My husband and I were lifelong Republicans. The past eight years have turned us into proud Democrats. It is with enthusiasm and excitement that we look forward to November 4th and onto the next eight years.

President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden are going to make me, my family and the rest of this wonderful country, REALLY proud to be an American once more.

All the best to you and your family. I can't wait to watch you and Barack as a team this afternoon. Great good luck!

Carol in Santa Fe:

WOW! The Dream TEAM! Be well. Be strong! Thank you for being a great American.

Cheyenne in Taos:

You're the man, Joe. WAY TO GO !!!

I'm the founder of Taos Grassroots for Obama and SO HAPPY today because I've admired you for many years. As I looked across the stage at the first primary debate, I made a wish. That Barack would win the nomination and choose you as his running mate. I felt very strongly about it and voiced my preference to others many times over the months. I just couldn't imagine a better pick than you.

The angels must be on our side today. God bless you, your family, and our beautiful country.

Anne in Clovis:

I told my friends and family almost a year ago, as the debates really got going, that my dream ticket was an Obama-Biden ticket. I cannot be more thrilled to see my dream coming true, at a time when we so desperately need the vision and experience of both of these talented men. Great choice!

You can still send Joe a message welcoming him to the team!

Barack Selects Joe Biden!

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 10:34:28 EDT

It's official... Barack Obama has selected Joe Biden to be his running mate!

Please take a minute to share your story with Joe and welcome him into our movement for change.

We'll make sure to share some of your stories with Senator Biden so he gets a chance to better know the remarkable folks who've built this campaign from the bottom up.

As Senator Obama and Senator Biden head to Denver, your grassroots support is more critical than ever.

Make sure to turn on your TV at 1:00 p.m. Mountain Time this afternoon to join us or watch online at http://www.BarackObama.com.

Obama-Biden '08!

Register for Change Events with Howard Dean

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 21:01:37 EDT

Yesterday, as part of his Register for Change voter registration drive, Democratic National Committee Chairman and former Governor of Vermont Howard Dean held events in Santa Fe, Bernalillo, and Albuquerque, where he encouraged New Mexicans to register to vote, and spoke about the importance of getting involved in the campaign on the local level.

Special guests actor Kal Penn, Los Angeles Lakers point guard Derek Fisher, and Jill Cooper Udall, wife of Congressman and U.S. Senate candidate Tom Udall, each spoke about what motivated them to become involved in the campaign, and how this year's election is too important to not become involved.

Here is a slideshow of pictures from the events:

Get involved in your community today! Join a Neighborhood Team!

Register for Change Tomorrow!

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:31:23 EDT

Tomorrow in Santa Fe, Bernalillo, and Albuquerque, Democratic National Committee Chairman and former Governor of Vermont Howard Dean will hit the streets with actor/producer Kal Penn ("Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle," the TV show "House") as part of their Register for Change voter registration drive. Their drive (in a bus) takes them across the country getting the word out about the importance of voter participation.

Details are as follows:

Casa Solano Shopping Center – Parking Lot
Alameda St and Saint Francis
Santa Fe, NM
10:15 a.m.

Sandia Library
236 Sandia Day School Road
Bernalillo, NM
1:00 p.m.

Campaign for Change Volunteer HQ - Parking Lot
3523 Central Avenue
Albuquerque, NM
3:15 p.m.

If you can't make it out tomorrow, find another event in your area and get involved!

Town Hall Meeting in Albuquerque

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:11:01 EDT

Yesterday, a crowd of over 1,800 people came out to Rio Grande High School in the South Valley of Albuquerque to hear Barack speak at a town hall meeting. Barack was asked questions on a variety of issues, from the war in Iraq to Social Security.

One person asked Barack what his policies were on immigration. He said:

We are a nation of immigrants and a nation of laws....We've got to have better border security. We've got to crack down on employers who are hiring undocumented workers and exploiting them.

...We also need a system that allows undocumented immigrants who are in good standing to pay a fine, learn English, and go to the back of the line for the opportunity to become citizens.

...This country belongs to everybody. There's nobody who looks like a typical American. We are all Americans, and we've got to show each other respect.

After the event, I spoke to Peggi, a volunteer who phonebanks at our office at 6344 4th Street NW in Albuquerque.

Peggi thinks that Barack is "a remarkable person" who has "fresh ideas and knowledge." She says that he is "aware of diversity" and "makes me a more hopeful person." The economy and healthcare are important issues to Peggi, and she likes Barack's plans to address them.

Here is a slideshow of photos from the event:

Get involved today! Join a Neighborhood Team in your area!

Discussion on Pay Equity in Albuquerque

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:03:06 EDT

This morning, Barack held a discussion on pay equity at the Albuquerque City Government Main Library.

Barack said:

I'm absolutely committed to making sure that my daughters have the same opportunities that any boy out there has. I don't want them to feel like they're disadvantaged because of their gender.

We need to make this economy more fair so that our daughters and granddaughters have the kind of American dream that we all hope they will have.

One woman asked Barack how he would improve our country's education system. He responded:

How we train our youth will be vital for our economic growth and our democracy. Everybody in theory wants to do something about education, but we haven't motivated the will and had the resources.

...We need to invest in early childhood education. This is especially important to minority and children from low income families. We need to pay our teachers more, and give them more support.

You can read more about Barack's Economic Plan for American Working Women here.

Stay tuned for coverage of Barack's town hall meeting in Albuquerque!

Hillary Clinton in Espanola

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:25:15 EDT

Yesterday, over 800 people came out to Northern New Mexico College in Española to hear Senator Hillary Clinton campaign in support of Barack Obama.

She said:

I have served with Barack Obama for nearly four years in the United States Senate, campaigned with him for 16 months, and stood on stage with him for 22 debates. I've seen his passion and determination, his grace...In his life, he has lived the American Dream.

...We need to start valuing families again. Senator Obama will expand the Family and Medical Leave Act, the first bill my husband signed, and he will push for paid leave for millions of working Americans. Senator Obama has proposed increasing childcare tax credits and raising the minimum wage. Senator McCain has no plan to make childcare affordable and he opposes raising the minimum wage.

...If you care about equal rights, if you care about justice, the choice in November is clear. The only choice is Senator Barack Obama.

...On November 4, we will know that we have helped to change history. The entire world is watching. They want to know what direction we choose, and New Mexico will once again be a key part of this decision.

...If you voted for me, you have much more in common with Senator Obama than with Senator McCain. To everyone who supported me, I hope you will work as hard for Senator Obama as you worked for me. We may have started out on two separate paths, but we are on one journey now, and this journey leads straight to the White House.

Get involved with the campaign in your community today! Join a Neighborhood Team!

Camp Obama New Mexico

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:04:18 EDT

Become a part of the national movement that's changing our politics and transforming our country, neighborhood by neighborhood — sign up now to attend Camp Obama New Mexico, a Hispanic community leadership training, on Friday, August 22nd and Saturday, August 23rd. We will be helping local Hispanic leaders empower themselves with the skills to mobilize voters in their New Mexico communities.

Camp Obama New Mexico
Hispanic Community Leadership Training
Alamosa Community Center
6900 Gonzales Rd, SW (Corner of Bridge and Coors)
Albuquerque, NM 89102.

Friday, August 22nd, 5pm-9pm
Saturday, August 23rd, 9am-9pm
Free

This two-day leadership training session is designed for supporters who want a more in-depth volunteer role in the campaign. Please plan to attend for the full training.

The training is led by Marshall Ganz, professor of community organizing at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and former United Farm Workers organizer, along with national and local campaign staff. All levels of experience accepted and all meals are included.

Sign up today!

Barack in Albuquerque on Monday!

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 12:39:33 EDT

Please join Barack Obama at a Town Hall in Albuquerque, where he'll talk about his vision for bringing America together and creating the kind of change we can believe in.

Town Hall with Barack Obama

Rio Grande High School
Main Gymnasium
2300 Arenal Road, SW
Albuquerque, NM 87105

Monday, August 18th
Doors Open: 10:45 a.m.
Program Begins: 1:00 p.m.

http://nm.barackobama.com/abqtownhall

The event is free and open to the public -- however, tickets are required.

For security reasons, do not bring bags and limit personal items. Photo ID is required for admittance. No signs or banners are permitted.

Senator Clinton in Espanola on Sunday

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 19:12:05 EDT

Senator Hillary Clinton will campaign in New Mexico in support of Senator Obama on Sunday afternoon with an event at the Northern New Mexico College in Espanola. Here are the details:

Northern New Mexico College - Española Campus
Gymnasium
921 Paseo de Onate
Espanola, NM 87532

Sunday, August 17, 2008
Doors Open: 2:00 p.m.

Program Begins: 2:45 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served.
For security reasons, do not bring bags. Please limit personal items. No signs or banners permitted.

Here are some photos from our office opening in Espanola on Wednesday:

New Mexico Campaign for Change Announces Veterans for Obama

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 20:51:02 EDT

Albuquerque, N.M. – Today Sen. Obama’s Campaign for Change unveiled New Mexico Veterans for Obama with events in Albuquerque and Las Cruces. Veterans for Obama will play a key role in reaching out to New Mexico’s veterans and military families across the state.

“America has a responsibility to care and support our veterans and their families. Senator Barack Obama takes this responsibility very seriously, and has made supporting our nation’s veterans a central issue in his campaign. Throughout the country veterans have expressed their support of Senator Obama, because of his strong commitment to our troops and military families,” said Major General Mel Montano, US Air National Guard, and former Adjunct General of New Mexico.

As a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, Sen. Obama has fought in Washington on behalf of our veterans—placing veterans’ issues on the front lines.

“As President, Sen. Obama will fight to make sure the more than 175,000 veterans in New Mexico have the care they’ve earned and deserve. Just this year, Sen. Obama worked with Sen. Jim Webb, a veteran himself, and other Congressional leaders to pass a 21st Century GI Bill, providing a full four years of college to our veterans returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Jim Buhaugh, retired US Army Veteran from Cedar Crest.

Sen. Obama has a veterans’ plan that will fully fund the VA; expand and strengthen Vet Centers, especially in rural areas; reduce the benefits claim backlog; and, combat the high rate of homelessness among veterans. To see his full plan, go to http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/vetshome.

Here are some of our Veterans for Obama in Albuquerque:

And here are some in Las Cruces:

Join New Mexico Veterans for Obama!

Neighborhood Team Trainings This Saturday

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:50:43 EDT

Matt Kasdan, New Mexico Campaign for Change General Election Director, just sent this email out:

Caitlin,

In just two weeks, Barack will accept the Democratic nomination at the Open Convention in Denver.

His speech will be an exciting event -- but it will also remind us that Election Day is coming up quickly. We need to grow our grassroots movement in New Mexico right now.

This Saturday, August 16th, the Campaign for Change is hosting New Mexico Neighborhood Team training sessions that will help build our organizing efforts in all four corners of the state.

Neighborhood Teams are groups of supporters in communities across New Mexico -- from major cities to rural outskirts -- that help bring more people into our political process, even in places political campaigns have ignored in the past.

Attend a training this Saturday and help us organize across New Mexico.

New Mexico is an important state in Barack's election strategy and folks here are ready for change.

In each of the last two presidential races, the state was decided by less than 6,000 votes. This year, the Campaign for Change is working at the neighborhood level and building a movement that will help Barack and support Democrats up and down the ballot.

So far, supporters like you have responded with enthusiasm and energy at previous Neighborhood Team training sessions.

This is a great first step. But we need supporters like you to join the organization we're building and take control of this movement in your neighborhood.

No previous political experience is necessary. The Campaign for Change will give you all the tools you need, every step of the way.

Sign up to attend a Neighborhood Team training session:

http://nm.barackobama.com/nmtraining

A small number of votes made all the difference in New Mexico in the past -- your efforts will make a huge impact.

Hope to see you Saturday,

Matt

Matt Kasdan
General Election Director
New Mexico Campaign for Change

P.S. -- If you can't make it to a Training Session this Saturday, you can still join a Neighborhood Team. Find an office near you and sign up to get active in your community:

http://nm.barackobama.com/nmoffices

Be the First to Know!

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 18:51:38 EDT

Barack Obama is about to make one of the most important decisions of this campaign -- choosing a running mate. Do you want to be first to know who it is?

Sign up today to be the first to know:

You will receive an email the moment Barack makes his decision, or you can text NM 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. Yes, you do!

Taos Office Opening

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 22:26:15 EDT

On Saturday, almost 200 people came out to our office opening in Taos. Taos County Democratic Party Chairman Thomas Tafoya did a great job officiating the event and introducing the elected officials who were on hand to help open the office, including Taos Mayor Bobby Duran, Lt. Governor Diane Denish, State Auditor Hector Balderas, and Speaker of the House Ben Lujan Sr.

Find the office closest to you and get involved today!

New Radio Ad in New Mexico: "Entrevista"

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:44:02 EDT

Today, our 2nd Spanish language radio ad, entitled "Entrevista," began airing in New Mexico. You can listen to it here:

See below for the English translation of the Spanish language ad:

[BO:] I´m Barack Obama and I approve this message.

[Voice Over (Female Radio announcer):]
Weʼre talking with leaders in Chicago to get know Barack Obama better… Miguel del Valle worked with Obama in the state senate. What can you tell us about Obama?

[Miguel de Valle:]
The most important thing I can tell you about Barack Obama is that heʼs an honest man. He is a man totally committed to the wellbeing of this country.

[Voice Over (Female Radio announcer):]
Dan Solis and Obama worked together with churches, helping communities that suffered job losses. What was the peopleʼs first impression of Obama?

[Dan Solis:]
He was pretty young back then. He always walked around with his bomber jacket. Many of our moms would look at him as one of their own … as one of their sons.

[Voice Over (Female Radio announcer):]
And what kind of experience does Obama have?

[Miguel de Valle:]
He worked with me on immigration issues, bilingual education, jobs and opportunities for Latinos…

[Voice Over (Female Radio announcer):]
And now that heʼs a candidate for President, what do people think?

[Dan Solis:]
Theyʼre supporting him becuase of the shared experiences we have working with the churches, and Iʼm sure there are a lot of people praying for his success this November.

Join New Mexico Hispanics for Obama!

Shiprock Office Opening

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 23:38:42 EDT

Check out this article from The Daily Times in Farmington about our office opening in Shiprock:

SHIPROCK — The Barack Obama 2008 Presidential Campaign is opening an office in Shiprock with three months to spare before the November election.

The campaign office is the first to appear on the Navajo Nation since the primary election, said J.R Thompson, deputy director for the Navajo Election Administration. The campaign has 19 other offices in the state, including one in Farmington. It has two in Arizona, but no other offices on the Navajo Nation, according to data from Obama's Web site.

...

Obama's Shiprock office is near polling places for four San Juan County voting precincts, said Arlenta Horse-Dickie, bilingual coordinator for the county clerk's office. The precincts stretch north to the Colorado border and south past Navajo Route 36.

Nearly 5,000 registered voters live in the four precincts. Sixty-two percent are registered with the democratic party, Horse-Dickie said.

The Nation doesn't keep track of party affiliation, Thompson said. It has no data about the number of democratic voters on the reservation.

There are no political parties on the reservation," he said. "There is no difference between democrats and republicans when it comes to Navajo elections."

The Obama campaign has indicated the candidate is committed to building tribal communities. Obama has addressed issues such as sovereignty, health care, education, economic development, drug use and veterans affairs on tribal land.

Find the office closest to you and get involved today!

Canvassing in Santa Fe

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 19:20:22 EDT

This weekend, volunteers all across New Mexico participated in neighborhood canvasses, during which they spread the word about Barack's campaign for change and encouraged voters to learn about and take advantage of voting-by-mail. Here are some pictures from the canvass in Santa Fe:

Stop by your local office and find out how you can get involved!

New Mexico Volunteer Spotlight: Rosie in Rio Rancho

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 17:27:22 EDT

Rosie is a volunteer and mother of three who lives in Rio Rancho and has worked in the medical field and as a legal office manager.

She believes that this election is "a turning point in history." She's watched every debate and says, "we need a young leader who can start to make a change."

Rosie has phonebanked in the Rio Rancho office every day since June. She says, "I have good days that keep me going. When I get negative calls, the negativity makes me want to work harder."

When she talks to someone who is undecided, Rosie tries to find out why they're undecided and encourages them to attend a houseparty to give them an idea of what Barack stands for. She's impressed by the issues that people are concerned about. She says:

We can't stay this way. It's got to stop...I really feel honored to be working for this man. I'm constantly learning things. He's so genuine -- he's 'got it."

You can get involved in the campaign in your local community like Rosie does. Find your local office and stop on by today!

In the News

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 21:45:12 EDT

Check out these articles about our recent office openings:

From the Roswell Daily Record...

The Obama Campaign for Change in New Mexico recently announced the grand opening of 16 new offices across the state, including a location at the Democratic Party of Chaves County's headquarters in Roswell.

Echoing the campaign slogan of Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., DPCC Chair Tom Jennings stated, "It's time for a change."

Representatives from the Obama Campaign for Change and the DPCC spoke to local Democrats Sunday at Tinnie Mercantile Store and Deli following the opening of the office.

Jennings said the Obama campaign's presence in Roswell will help to energize and organize the community to work together to aid in the election of a Democratic candidate.

"I think a lot of people are frustrated and looking for a change," he said. "We're starting to campaign early this election to raise as much enthusiasm as possible."

Jennings added, "Obama is a professional community organizer. We're seeing that push all over the country, especially in swing states."

From the Los Alamos Monitor...

Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama's Campaign for Change opened 16 offices across New Mexico on Saturday, including one at 2610 Trinity Drive, Suite 22, in the Mary Deal Building.

New Mexico is considered a critical swing state, where a closely divided electorate may help determine the outcome of the 2008 race for the White House on Nov. 4. Voters are expected to turn out in droves.

Through the new offices, Obama's Campaign for Change intends to focus on harnessing the enthusiasm of Obama's grassroots-level supporters. They will organize communities across New Mexico - neighbor to neighbor, friend to friend and colleague to colleague, working for the benefit of Democratic candidates up and down the ticket, according to the campaign.

Los Alamos resident Jeannette Figg, 20, attends the University of California at Santa Barbara. This is the first time she will vote in a presidential election and said she agrees with Obama on the issues.

"I saw him talk last August at UCSB and it was so inspirational," Figg said. "I don't like the way it is right now: where the money is - the power is. Obama wants to change that."
Figg is majoring in statistics and environmental studies and said another reason she backs Obama is, "It drives me crazy that McCain wants to do more off-shore drilling."

Find your local office and get involved today!

Canvass This Weekend!

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 13:49:25 EDT

Brent Messenger, New Mexico Campaign for Change Field Director, just sent this email out:

Caitlin,

Last week, thousands of supporters attended our statewide Campaign for Change office openings -- a clear sign that folks here are committed to building our grassroots movement for change.

Right now, we are seeing incredible enthusiasm as our New Mexico Campaign for Change grows.

This weekend, we'll harness that momentum and continue bringing new people into our movement by going door-to-door to spread the word about this campaign.

Supporters like you from every corner of New Mexico are meeting up at statewide canvass events -- reaching out in local communities, registering new voters, and helping spread Barack's message of change.

Join us this weekend at a neighborhood canvass in your area.

We're up against some formidable opponents. John McCain, the Republican Party, and the shadowy outside groups that support them are not going to hold back in their efforts to stop us. We need to be prepared, and we can't afford to wait.

From Hobbs to the Pueblo Reservations, supporters in New Mexico are coming together this weekend to talk to voters about Barack and our Democratic candidates.

We will be encouraging voters to learn about and take advantage of the vote-by-mail option that will make it easy to support candidates who are working for change.

Face-to-face contact with friends, neighbors, and undecided voters is the most effective way to grow our movement. And with less than 100 days to go before the general election, we can't afford to sit on the sidelines -- we have to start now.

No political experience is required. We'll provide you with everything you need to succeed, every step of the way.

Reach out in your own community this weekend by joining a neighborhood canvass event.

We hope to see you this weekend.

Brent

Brent Messenger
Field Director
New Mexico Campaign for Change

Neighbors Uniting for Change: House Meeting in Albuquerque

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 20:45:27 EDT

On Sunday afternoon, Obama supporter Noreen held a house meeting in her home in Albuquerque. She told the group of about 15 people who gathered there that like Senator Obama, she strongly believes in community organizing, and that she learned about organizing when she was a member of her neighborhood association.

After everyone introduced themselves and spoke about what issues were most important to them, Campaign for Change Field Organizer Edward spoke about ways that everyone could volunteer right away in their own community. The group agreed to meet later in the week at Noreen's house to make phone calls to New Mexicans in their neighborhood.

After the meeting, I spoke to Paula, Melissa, and Steven, all of whom live in Noreen's neighborhood. Paul and Steven are married, and even though Melissa is their neighbor, they just met each other for the first time at the house meeting.

Melissa really enjoyed the house meeting because she says, "it let everyone get to know their neighbors and let them work together to create a plan of action." She hosted a house meeting a few weeks ago that only a few people showed up to, and she's happy that "the meetings are getting bigger and bigger."

Paula liked how the group thought about reasons that prevented people from voting and ways to overcome those excuses. She's ready for change in our country, and said:

My grandmother was a labor union organizer in the 1920s...I can't believe that people are still working in sweatshops. We need to care about the well being of people, not the well being of corporations.

Find a house meeting in your area or create your own today!

Photos from Office Openings

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 16:15:37 EDT

This weekend, we opened 16 new offices across New Mexico. Here are some great photos from the openings:

We'll be opening more offices across the state, so stay tuned! Find an event in your area and get involved today!

Wish Barack a Happy Birthday

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 14:46:12 EDT

Today is Barack's 47th birthday!

Join us in wishing Barack a very happy birthday! Send your birthday wishes to Barack by signing our virtual birthday card:

After you sign the card, stop by and celebrate with your local office in New Mexico, which you can find here.

House Meeting in Placitas

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 22:43:50 EDT

On Saturday, Obama Fellow Doris attended a Campaign for Change house meeting/party in Placitas. Doris reports:

The meeting/party was quite successful: the count was 44 participants, eight financial contributors (totaling over $1,100), at least 11 volunteers, commitments to two new house meetings/parties in Placitas, commitment to work in the Barack Obama Campaign for Change Bernalillo Headquarters when it opens, and several pieces of office equipment, including a desktop computer donated! Wow!

Here are some pictures from the house meeting/party:

Find a house meeting/party in your area or create your own today!

Rio Rancho Office Opening

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 15:17:38 EDT

This weekend, we opened 16 offices across the state, bringing our total number of offices in New Mexico to 17.

Last night, over 300 people came out to our office opening in Rio Rancho! The Mayor of Rio Rancho, Tom Swisstack, and State Auditor Hector Balderas were special guests at the opening, and they each spoke about the importance of getting involved in the campaign on the local level by talking to your friends and neighbors.

Everyone in attendence was encouraged to sign up to volunteer with the campaign, and to apply for a vote by mail application.

During the opening, I spoke to Charlie, a special education teacher and a resident of Rio Rancho.

Charlie has been a supporter of Senator Obama since December, and has become involved with the campaign by becoming a Neighborhood Team Leader and making phone calls. He's also held a house meeting, and was impressed that everyone who came was willing to become more involved in the campaign by volunteering.

The Iraq War is a big issue to Charlie, as he considers himself a pacifist. Charlie says that he decided to support Barack after reading both of his books. He says:

He's a human being who can see all the angles. He can see both sides of an issue...I would encourage someone who is undecided to look at his writings -- he has a unique way of speaking to people.

Check out a slideshow of pictures from the opening!

We'll be opening more offices all across the state soon, so stay tuned!

Salsa for Obama

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 16:02:08 EDT

Check out this article in the New Mexico Independent about supporters in New Mexico using my.barackobama.com to create events in their communities:

There are plenty of events to attend for various candidates this election cycle, but one that caught my attention recently is "Salsa for Obama".

Before you start dicing tomatoes, this salsa is the kind you dance to, not munch on. And it's the brain child of Albuquerque school teacher Ann Cortés. The event will be Sept. 23 at Sauce and Raw nightclub at 4th and Central in Albuquerque.

Cortés said she's an example of just how "grassroots" Obama supporters are. She said this was a fun way to generate funds and it won't cost people a fortune. People can donate what they feel comfortable with, she said. "Nobody is going to be expected to fork over $100 bucks to get in," she said.

Cortés also is a member of the Obama supporter groups ABQ Teachers for Change and Students for Obama.

Find an event in your area or create your own today!

"Obama opens new offices around NM"

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 19:12:41 EDT

From the New Mexico Independent:

The campaign of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama will formally open two offices in Doña Ana County this weekend and plans a third later in the campaign.

The offices reveal a widespread effort by the Obama campaign to reach voters in southern New Mexico and throughout the state. The campaign will open offices in Las Cruces and Anthony this weekend, according to a news release. It already has offices open in Silver City and Alamogordo. Later in the campaign it plans to open offices in Deming, Ruidoso and on the New Mexico State University campus in Las Cruces, the news release states.

The Anthony, Las Cruces, Silver City and Alamogordo offices are among 16 around New Mexico that will hold grand-opening ceremonies this weekend, according to Obama’s Web site. Six of the offices will be located in the 2nd Congressional District in southern New Mexico. As of this weekend, the campaign will have 17 offices in New Mexico.

Find an office opening in your area and get involved this weekend!

Office Openings This Weekend!

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:31:59 EDT

This weekend, we're kicking off our general election efforts with Campaign for Change office grand openings in locations across New Mexico, then we'll get together to connect with neighbors in our communities through our statewide phonebank.

Find a new office opening in your area now and sign up to get involved:

These office openings are a perfect way to learn about our strategy in New Mexico and get to know fellow supporters. Making calls will help you introduce our movement for change to friends, family, and neighbors in your community.

No previous experience is necessary to get involved. All you need is a hunger for change and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action.

Take a moment now to find an office opening and phonebank in your area:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMopenings

See you this weekend!

Can You Help House a Staffer?

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 19:37:57 EDT

New Mexico Campaign for Change General Election Director Matt Kasdan just sent out this email:

Caitlin --

House Campaign for Change Staffers in New Mexico My name is Matt Kasdan, and I'm the General Election Director for Barack Obama's Campaign for Change in New Mexico.

All across New Mexico, staff members and volunteers are registering new voters and working to build Obama's Campaign for Change through November. I'm excited to be working with those folks to achieve our goals and succeed here in the fall.

As we gear up for the general election, we have a rapidly growing demand for donated housing across the state -- sometimes for as little as a few days or a week, but often for longer stays.

This is not a small request, but it is extremely important.

Do you have an extra bedroom or a fold-out couch? Could you host a Campaign for Change staffer at your home for a few days, a few weeks, or even through the election?

Let us know, and someone from the campaign will be in touch as the need arises:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMhousing

Campaign staff and volunteers commonly travel long distances to work hard for months, often for little or no pay.

Like all campaigns, Campaign for Change struggles to keep our costs down, and we've been able to do this because generous supporters like you have opened up your homes.

If you have a guest room or any spare accommodations, we would appreciate it if you would consider hosting a staffer.

We especially need housing for our staff in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and Santa Fe as we continue to build our organization in New Mexico.

If you think you could help us in this way, please sign up to host a campaign staffer:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMhousing

Thank you for your continued support,

Matt

Matt Kasdan
General Election Director
New Mexico Campaign for Change

Make Calls from Home!

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:10:20 EDT

Can't make it into one of our offices?

You can help Barack on your own schedule from the comfort of your home right now.

Get started making phone calls from home today!

Making phone calls from home is easy. All you need is a phone and a computer with an internet connection. After you log in, you'll be given a list of names to call. Click on a name and follow the script provided to you online. You'll be able to log all of the answers to the questions as you go!

Reaching out to your neighbors is the best way to grow this movement, and now you can make these connections with fellow New Mexicans right from your own home.

Make the first call right now.

Albuquerque Office Opening

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 22:40:21 EDT

This morning, over 1,000 New Mexicans attended Neighborhood Team Trainings throughout the state. After the trainings in Albuquerque, supporters headed to the official opening of our New Mexico Campaign for Change state headquarters, located at 117 Montclaire Drive SE!

New Mexico Campaign for Change General Election Director Matt Kasdan spoke about ways that supporters could volunteer, including joining a Neighborhood Team, making phone calls, and housing a staffer.

During the opening, I spoke with Evelyn and Robert, who had just met, and Robert's dog Chapstick.

Evelyn works in a church nursery and teaches a preschool Bible class. She has supported Senator Obama since January of this year. She says she agrees with Barack that "change happens from the bottom up. He's willing to listen to ideas from all people, that really impresses me." Evelyn has donated to the campaign and drove people to the polls on Primary Day in February. She's excited to phonebank for the campaign in the months leading up to November 4.

Robert, a visiting professor at the University of New Mexico, likes Barack's "approach to politics -- his use of collaborative methods of solving problems. I like his approach to international relations and his plans to work with other nations -- no one country can solve the world's problems on its own."

We'll be opening up offices all across New Mexico, so check back on nm.barackobama.com to find out when they're opening! In the meantime, be sure to find an event in your area and get involved!

Albuquerque Office Opening Tomorrow!

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:03:24 EDT

Tomorrow afternoon, Barack Obama’s Campaign for Change will host the
grand opening celebration of its Albuquerque headquarters!

Here are the details:

Albuquerque Office Opening

117 Montclaire Drive, SE (off of Central Avenue)
Albuquerque, NM 87108

Saturday, July 26
5:00 p.m.

Here are some pictures of some of our great volunteers making signs to decorate our new office with on Wednesday!

Sign up to let us know you'll be there tomorrow!

New Spanish Language Radio Ad in New Mexico

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:44:48 EDT

CHICAGO, IL - On the heels of U.S. Senator Barack Obama's speeches at the LUCAC and NCLR conventions, the Obama campaign today released a Spanish language radio ad entitled "Nuestro Propio Camino," which profiles Senator Obama's upbringing and connection to Latino values. Nuestro Propio Camino will air in Colorado, Florida, New Mexico, and Nevada.

"Latinos can relate to Senator Obama's background of hard work and commitment to family and community," said Federico Pena, National Campaign Co-Chair. "Senator Obama is serious about winning the Latino vote and this Spanish language ad is but one among a variety of his efforts to build on the progress of the primary."

You can listen to Nuestro Propio Camino here:

See below for the English translation of the Spanish language ad:

Nuestro Propio Camino

[VO:] Some people have power and connections.

But most of us have to make our own way through life.

This is true even for the man who could become the next President . Barack Obama.

He grew up without a father - raised by his mother with the support of his grandparents.

Obama never forgot his roots.

He worked with churches to help families get job training and after-school care for their children.

In the State Senate, he passed a law that helped reduce the welfare roles by over 80% by helping families to secure jobs.

And despite the political pressure, Obama has stood with us for immigration reform and spoke out for our veterans.

It's time we had a President who understands we all deserve a chance to make our own way.

Join New Mexico Hispanics for Obama!

Attend a Neighborhood Team Training on Saturday

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:08:00 EDT

Brent Messenger, Campaign for Change New Mexico Field Director, just sent out this email:

Dear Caitlin --

Neighborhood Team Trainings in New Mexico Your hard work in the New Mexico Primary helped strengthen our party and bring new folks into the political process.

Now that the general election is upon us, it's time to get to work to deliver New Mexico for Barack and other Democrats in November.

This Saturday, July 26th, supporters are coming together across New Mexico for Campaign for Change Neighborhood Team trainings to learn how they can help Barack in their community.

These trainings will help you work with other supporters in your neighborhood to get organized, build our grassroots movement for change, and help candidates up and down the ballot.

Find a training in your area and join fellow Obama supporters this Saturday:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMteamtraining

At the trainings we'll discuss our strategy in New Mexico and how you can play a big role this November. We'll give you the tools to grow our movement and reach out to your friends, family, and neighbors in your community.

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

Attend the training closest to you this Saturday to take the next step in helping Barack and other Democrats compete in New Mexico:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMteamtraining

Hope to see you Saturday!

Thanks,

Brent

Brent Messenger
New Mexico Field Director
Campaign for Change

P.S. -- There are lots of ways to get involved. The New Mexico campaign for change is seeking full- and part-time interns to take an active role in the campaign. Learn more:

http://nm.barackobama.com/nmintern

Barack Featured in Navajo Nation Newsletter

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:17:21 EDT

Barack's meeting with a delegation of Navajo Nation leaders in Santa Fe this past February was featured in the Navajo Nation Council Newsletter for the 2nd quarter. Here is an except:

SANTA FE, N.M. — Before Sen. Barack Obama became America’s choice as the Democratic presidential candidate, a Navajo delegation shared some issues the Navajo Nation is facing with Obama on Feb. 2, during his Stand for Change Rally in Santa Fe.

A delegation of Navajo Nation leaders that included Council Delegates Ervin Keeswood (Tse Daa Kaan), Hope MacDonald-Lone Tree (Coalmine Canyon/Toh Nanees Dizi), Rex Lee Jim (Rock Point) and Leonard Tsosie (Pueblo Pintado/ Torreon/Whitehorse Lake) represented the Navajo Nation and the Honorable Speaker Lawrence T. Morgan.

The delegation met with Obama to educate him on the pressing issues facing the Navajo Nation. MacDonald- Lone Tree explained that the Navajo Nation needs to take any opportunity it has to push Navajo issues.

Though this was not an ofﬁcial endorsement from the Navajo Nation, it provided an opportunity for Navajo leaders to advocate on behalf of issues affecting Indian Country.

Navajo leaders that attended the meeting were satisfied with their Obama visit and they were pleased to know that he was keen on issues affecting the Navajo Nation.

You can view the newsletter containing the full article here.

Join New Mexico Native Americans for Obama!

Unite for Change House Meeting in Albuquerque

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 20:24:33 EDT

Last night, Ann in Albuquerque hosted a "Unite for Change" house meeting, where people who had supported both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama met to discuss how they would unite the Democratic Party in their community and across the country.

Many of those in attendance, including Ann, were strong supporters of Hillary Clinton during the primaries. Ann said:

It was painful to lose that dream, but I'm impressed with the way that Barack Obama wants to do things. We want Obama to win, and we want to make sure that he hears our voices.

After introductions, everyone met in small groups to discuss issues such as energy and the environment, universal healthcare, and immigration. Once they decided on policy planks, they submitted their ideas to the campaign.

After the meeting, I spoke with Amy, a medical instrument technician at a VA hospital who supported Hillary Clinton during the primaries, but is now excited to support Barack and unite the Democratic Party.

Amy said:

I supported Hillary because I wanted a woman to be President. I believed that Hillary was psychologically tougher, but I've now realized that Barack is stronger. I'm really happy with him as our candidate.
In a way, I've always supported him. When I first heard him speak [at the Democratic National Convention] four years ago, I thought "this guy is great!"

Amy thought that the house meeting was "tremendous. It helped me clarify what my goals are, and gave me suggestions of concrete things that I can do to help the campaign." She's excited to help out in any way she can, including registering folks to vote.

The economy, healthcare, and the environment are all important issues to Amy. She says:

We need to get off of oil and look to alternative energies, such as solar panels. We have to develop contingency plans for global warming and stop adding to it and making it worse.

Find an event near you and get involved today!

New Mexico Delegate: Gaye in Santa Fe

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:16:36 EDT

We've been profiling National Delegates to the Democratic Convention from across the country for a few weeks now. Here is the story of Gaye in Santa Fe, as profiled by Sara:

“I was 62 years old and had never put a bumper sticker on my car or worn my politics on my sleeve until Obama.” New Mexico Delegate Gaye is one of many Americans who have discovered their political passion through Senator Obama’s historical movement. She determined that simply voting for him and contributing money wasn’t enough, that her non-involvement had been part of the problem for too long, and that she had so much more to give.

Therefore, Gaye established Santa Fe Grassroots for Obama in November of 2007. “It was gratifying and humbling to establish Santa Fe Grassroots for Obama in November and to help us go from 0 to 400 volunteers by the night of Senator Obama’s rally in Santa Fe on February 1st. That night, I had the joyful honor of introducing Barack to the 5,600 folks assembled inside and outside our venue.”

Gaye’s high-spirits and motivation definitely contributed to New Mexico's active and enthusiastic support of Obama. Gaye’s Grassroots volunteers spent time and effort registering voters, calling voters, canvassing door-to-door, getting media coverage, staffing campaign offices, housing and feeding campaign staffers, holding watch parties for February 5th and other important addresses. In fact, for their efforts, Gaye and her team helped deliver 57.3% of the vote in Santa Fe County for Obama.

Most importantly, Gaye proves that anyone -- even an inexperienced person -- can make a huge difference.

While I’ve had a 30+ year career in marketing, sales, and public relations, some of my most successful business & personal endeavors have been projects for which I had absolutely no previous experience. My Obama campaign involvement certainly falls into the ‘absolutely no previous experience’ category. Only when Barack takes his oath of office will I consider my endeavor to be totally successful and I certainly consider my involvement to be the most important of my life.

Gaye claims that she can only “vaguely recall” her life before the campaign due to her busy schedule, but during the times she’s not rallying for the Senator, her day-to-day activities include: piloting airplanes, horseback riding, traveling around the world and living internationally in Indonesia, Singapore and Switzerland. Her favorite pastime however? Riding her Harley! Gaye’s family consists of her husband’s grown daughter who lives in Cleveland and a 6-year old Portuguese water dog, Raven.

Today, Santa Fe Grassroots number over 1,000 volunteers and have continued to grow even more vigorously as they combine efforts with the national campaign organizers and field staff who are now on the ground in New Mexico. “We’ve delivered a highly motivated, capable, passionate troupe of volunteers to the national campaign that will now provide strategic guidance and energy to finish the job of winning New Mexico for Barack.”

Intern in New Mexico

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:59:05 EDT

Brent Messenger, Campaign for Change Field Director in New Mexico, just sent this email out:

Dear Caitlin--

The general election will be here before you know it, and our movement for change in New Mexico is already gearing up for success this fall.

But we need your help.

You can play a major role in our campaign by applying to be an intern in one of our Campaign for Change offices across New Mexico, or by helping us find other people who might be interested.

Barack has often said that grassroots supporters are the "backbone" of his campaign, and a campaign internship is a great way to get involved and help make a difference.

It's also an opportunity to take ownership of the campaign in your community, and learn firsthand how our election process works.

Now's the time to make a difference in New Mexico. We can't afford to wait to kick into gear for the general election -- that's why all applications are due by Wednesday, July 30th.

Apply to be an intern or pass along this application information:

http://nm.barackobama.com/nmintern

We're going to be counting on interns to help register new voters, identify and recruit supporters, and mobilize local communities to support Barack and other Democrats up and down the ticket this November.

No prior experience is required. Campaign for Change staff will provide you with all the materials, training, and support you'll need every step of the way. All you need is a hunger for change and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action.

Learn more about joining our team now:

http://nm.barackobama.com/nmintern

Thank you,

Brent

Brent Messenger
New Mexico Field Director
Campaign for Change

P.S. -- If you aren't interested in applying for an internship but would like to help grow our movement for change, sign up to join one of our neighborhood teams:

http://nm.barackobama.com/nmteams

New TV Ad in New Mexico: "America's Leadership"

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:29:29 EDT

Today, our campaign released a new television ad, entitled "America's Leadership," which will air in 18 states, including New Mexico. The ad highlights Senator Obama's bipartisan work with U.S. Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN) to stop the smuggling of loose nuclear weapons and Obama's commitment to restoring America's leadership in the world.

You can watch the ad below:

After you watch the ad, find an event near you and get involved in your area!

Sign up to Vote by Mail

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:12:03 EDT

Do you want to cast your ballot for Barack before Election Day? Sign up to vote by mail!

To do so, you must be a registered voter and mail an application to your County Clerk's office. It's safe and reliable -- but most importantly, it allows you to vote from the comfort of your own home and volunteer for the campaign on Election Day!

Absentee Voting begins on October 7th, 2008. Your ballots will be mailed to you then. Absentee ballots must be turned in by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 4th, 2008.

After you sign up to receive an application, find a volunteer opportunity in your area and sign up to get involved!

East Mountains Voter Registration Training

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 18:44:14 EDT

Yesterday, an Obama group in East Mountains held a voter registration training at the East Mountains Library in Tijeras. Obama supporter Catherine sent in this report:

The training was sponsored by the East Mountains for Obama group and twelve new people were deputized as Voter Registrars. The group has a Voter Registration committee that is scheduling ongoing events throughout the summer, a Volunteer Recruitment Committee and an Event Planning group.

The East Mountains for Obama group is for residents of communities in the East Mountains of Albuquerque, a rural area located in the Sandia, Manzanita, Manzano Mountains and Estancia Valley of New Mexico. Our interests focus on rural living, protection of the environment and wildlife, outdoor sports, water issues, family, faith and spirituality, art and photography, ranching and farming, education, health care, senior services, and the elimination of crime, drugs and poverty in our communities.

Do you have pictures from an event in New Mexico? Email them to us at newmexico@barackobama.com!

Campaign for Change Training Sessions

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 22:33:46 EDT

Today, campaign organizers held "Campaign for Change" Training Sessions all throughout New Mexico to teach supporters all of the skills they will need to effectively organize their communities.

At a training in Albuquerque, Deputy Field Director Daniel Suvor explained how one of the themes of our campaign, "Respect, Empower, Include" was practiced:

New Mexico is a very diverse state. We have a lot of communities that are different. We've got to learn to respect others and find the commonalities. We're an open door campaign...Anyone can get involved in this campaign.

We have so many volunteers in this community that we're able to have teams...We've got to step up and take ownership of a small piece of the campaign. We need to all commit to being a part of it in our neighborhood, take responsibility for something and focus on that for the next four months.

And here are some pictures from our training in Las Cruces:

Couldn't make it to a training today? Sign up to find out about upcoming trainings and events in your area!

Campaign for Change Training Sessions TOMORROW!

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 19:49:26 EDT

TOMORROW Obama staff and our Campaign for Change will be leading training sessions in five locations -- from Clovis to Santa Fe -- to teach supporters all of the skills they will need to effectively organize their communities. They'll also introduce a special new program -- Obama Neighborhood Teams.

Obama Neighborhood Teams are volunteer groups of supporters who together are leading our movement for change in our New Mexico communities.

No previous experience is required to get involved. All you need is a hunger for change and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action.

Sign up to attend a New Mexico Campaign for Change training session and learn about Obama Neighborhood Teams by clicking on the map!

If you can't make it to a training tomorrow, sign up to find out about future events in your area!

New Mexico Volunteer Spotlight: Yasmine in Santa Fe

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:12:06 EDT

Yasmine, a small business owner with two daughters, has lived in Santa Fe for the last 15 years.

Yasmine volunteered during the primary season by canvassing and "working the lines" during Barack's visit to Santa Fe. These days, she is spends her time doing voter registration and outreach, and attending organizational meetings. One of the projects she has been working on is voter registration in the Sikh community in Espanola.

She has supported Barack for over a year and a half, and likes his stance on the Iraq war, saying "he is willing to take us out of Iraq and bring peace back to the world." Yasmine also likes Barack's message of "change," and his history of bringing about change for the Americans people as a legislator. She says:

We need a new face in Washington. Someone who doesn't have previous ties. We need someone who actually does what he says he will do. Barack does what he says he's gonna do.

Yasmine is excited to be a part of Barack's campaign, and says:

I've never been part of any kind of political situation before. It's very rewarding to be a part of a group that's come to life. There are people I volunteer with who say they haven't been involved in politics in 40 years. It sounds corny because it's repating 'the hope thing,' but people really do have hope. They are a little part in a bigger picture.

Get involved today! Find an event near you and make a difference here in New Mexico!

Call New Mexicans From Home!

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:33:56 EDT

You can now volunteer for the campaign without even leaving your home! We need your help calling independent voters in New Mexico using our online calling tool to ask who they plan to support in the general election. It couldn't be easier -- just click the graphic below to begin!

Before you begin, listen to call tips and a tutorial on how to get started or check out the call Frequently Asked Questions.

Happy calling!

Training Sessions This Weekend!

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 19:43:26 EDT

New Mexico State Director Adrian Saenz just sent this email out:

Dear Caitlin,

We have a lot to be excited about here in New Mexico.

Thousands of you have built an incredible grassroots organization in the state. Thanks to your efforts, we're looking forward to opportunities up and down the ballot this November.

Now we must continue growing this movement for change, and we need your help.

This weekend, Obama staff and our Campaign for Change will be leading training sessions in five locations -- from Clovis to Santa Fe -- to teach supporters all of the skills they will need to effectively organize their communities. They'll also introduce a special new program -- Obama Neighborhood Teams.

Obama Neighborhood Teams are volunteer groups of supporters who together are leading our movement for change in our New Mexico communities.

No previous experience is required to get involved. All you need is a hunger for change and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action.

Sign up to attend a New Mexico Campaign for Change training session and learn about Obama Neighborhood Teams:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMtraining

It's going to take all of us working together to succeed, and these training sessions are vital to our efforts.

For nearly 20 years, Barack worked with people on the south side of Chicago. Together, they changed their communities from the bottom up. This campaign is built on that model -- but we need your help In New Mexico.

Obama Neighborhood Teams are a great way to take your commitment to our movement to a higher level. It's also an important part of our strategy here in New Mexico.

RSVP for a training session in your community now and learn about the Obama Neighborhood Teams:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMtraining

Thanks,

Adrian

Adrian Saenz
New Mexico State Director
Obama for America
P.S. -- As you consider your entire ballot for November, I strongly encourage you to take advantage of New Mexico's Vote-By-Mail option. You'll have the option to vote from the comfort of your own home, and you'll also be free to volunteer on the most important day of this campaign -- Election Day. Learn more now:

http://nm.barackobama.com/nmVoteByMail

High Voter Registration in New Mexico

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 19:30:40 EDT

From Heath Haussamen on New Mexico Politics...

More New Mexicans registered to vote as Democrats than as Republicans and independents combined in the first six months of the year, a statistic that has the state’s Democratic Party smiling.

“With more and more Democrats registering to vote, we are confident that this year New Mexico will turn blue,” Brian Colón, chairman of the Democratic Party of New Mexico, said in a news release. “Democrats are on the right side of the issues and represent the values of New Mexicans. Not only are we registering more and more voters, but record interest in volunteering has energized all the Democratic campaigns here in the state.”

From Jan. 1 to June 30, 27,207 New Mexicans registered as Democrats, while 12,926 registered as Republicans and 11,805 registered independent of any political party, according to the news release. Several hundred more registered as members of other political parties.

The Democrats’ advantage in voter registration, according to the news release, is attributable to “the impact of an Obama candidacy, the Udall for Senate campaign’s work to mobilize Democrats early on and the excitement around the Teague, Heinrich and Luján campaigns,” which has energized people of all political affiliations “looking to this election as an opportunity to bring change to Washington.”

“With the Obama campaign continuing to register voters across New Mexico and competitive Congressional races reaching out to these new voters, we hope to leave an important mark on New Mexico’s political landscape for elections to come,” the party’s news release stated.

In the 2nd Congressional District in southern New Mexico, 7,783 people registered as Democrats, according to the Democratic Party, while 4,991 registered as Republicans and 4,435 registered as independents.

In Doña Ana County, independents topped Republicans in new voter registrations from January to June. While 3,141 registered as Democrats, 2,220 registered as independents and 1,346 registered as Republicans. It was the only county in the 2nd District where there was a significantly larger number of new independents than new Republicans.

Your hard work is paying off! Keep the movement going and bring new voters into the process by finding a voter registration event near you!

New Mexico Organizing Fellows Spotlight: Daniel in Las Cruces

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 17:15:13 EDT

Daniel grew up in Las Cruces and attended George Washington University, which he says "reinforced in my mind the profound importance of service and dedicating one’s self to bettering their community."

As a result, after college, he joined the Teach For America program and worked as a 4th and 5th grade Social Studies and Writing teacher in Church Rock, New Mexico, a small town located in the Navajo Nation in Northwestern New Mexico. His school, Church Rock Academy Elementary School, was the poorest in one of the poorest school districts of New Mexico.

Daniel decided to support Barack because:

As a teacher, I witnessed first-hand the extreme challenges facing children in low-income communities as they attempt to reach their inherent academic potential. My experience as a teacher, moreover, reinforced powerfully in my mind the need for fundamental change at a systemic level at the highest reaches of government. However, in order to engender the broad-based change required to enable children like those at Church Rock to meet their true potential, we need a president that inspired folks to call upon themselves to get involved, in a very direct way, in the cause for a more justice future. In the way Barack empowers, motivates, and drives people to do things they never thought possible, I know he represents such a leader, and I’m proud to call him my candidate of choice.

Daniel says that he decided to become an Obama Organizing Fellow for two reasons:

First, I know that I hope to become a leader, potentially within the political field, in the future. As a teacher, I developed leadership skills that will help me organize folks around ambitious and challenging initiatives. Serving as a fellow, I felt, would allow me to receive this brand of leadership training but in a broader, more community-oriented context. So far, that supposition has definitely held true.

Secondly, and more importantly, as someone who grew up in Las Cruces and has a solid knowledge, I think, of this area’s unique social and political dynamic, I felt I would have a great deal to offer the campaign in terms of reaching out to influential local leaders, understanding why this location has underperformed for Democratic and progressive candidates in past election, as well as how we can change that worrying and entirely changeable pattern for Barack in 2008.

Daniel describes his job as a Fellow:

I’ve made good friends with the folks at Fiesta Foods on North Main in Las Cruces and enjoy employing my Spanish skills to bring new voters into the process...This is precisely the type of place where I feel my efforts are best utilized, particularly since, traditionally, first- and second-generation Latino immigrants have faced no shortage of electoral disenfranchisement. It may sound silly, but, at Fiesta, I’m doing my part to reverse this ugly trend.

Daniel says:

The most rewarding part of being a fellow is knowing that, every day, with every voter I register and every person I convince to get on board with hope and change, I am working for my students and creating a society in which they are valued and have a meaningful chance to reach their full potential. There is nothing more important than this. As a teacher, I lived and breathed for my students. As a fellow, nothing has changed.

You can help bring new voters into the political process! Find an event in your area and get involved!

Fourth of July in Arroyo Seco

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 19:24:03 EDT

Here are some great pictures of our Taos Grassroots for Obama group in the Arroyo Seco Fourth of July parade!

The group had a great time spreading the word about Barack and registering new voters! Get involved by helping to register voters in your area! Find an event near you today!

New Mexico Organizing Fellows Spotlight: Jordyn in Albuquerque

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 15:05:17 EDT

Jordyn, a native of New Mexico and a student attending college in Washington, D.C., has been a supporter of Barack since 2006, when she read Dreams From My Father and "observed his politics and strong character in action" while she worked as a U.S. Senate page. She's now working as an Obama Organizing Fellow in Albuquerque, registering voters and organizing volunteers.

Jordyn says that Barack is:

Truly a man of a different mold than 95% of the politicians this country has seen, and I am confident that he will make the changes this country so desperately needs.

Jordyn explains what made her apply to become a fellow and how her experience is going:

Because of my strong support for Barack and my constant interest in politics, my interest in becoming a fellow was quite natural. But more than that, I wanted to be empowered and to learn how to empower others in return, as Barack so brilliantly does. I really feel like I am helping to make history in this position, which is an unbelievable feeling.

...I don't know if I have had one "typical day" as a fellow. Each day brings with it a unique challenge or goal, and that is what I love about being a fellow. When I first started a few weeks ago, I did a lot of voter registration, but now, I am doing a lot more volunteer orchestration. I am also doing a lot to get a grassroots groups started out Laguna Pueblo, which is serving to be challenging, but I am so fired up about this cause that I am slow to get discouraged by bumps in the road. I often think of the challenges Barack faced as a community organizer and use his accomplishments (and his disappointments) as motivation to keep going.

Jordyn says that the most interesting part of being a fellow is:

Firing up others! Nothing compares to the feeling that comes with helping another person discover the power that already lies within.

Keep checking back for more updates from our Organizing Fellows in New Mexico! Want to get involved in our campaign in New Mexico? Sign up today!

Voter Registration at the Albuquerque City Fireworks

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:48:47 EDT

Yesterday, Obama staffers, fellows, and volunteers were out in full force at the Albuquerque City Fireworks at Balloon Fiesta Park.

Everyone had a great time registering hundreds of New Mexicans to vote and enjoying the beautiful weather!

We even had face painting for the kids while their parents registered!

All in all, it was a very successful day!

We have tons of voter registration events going on every day in New Mexico! Find the event nearest you and get involved today!

Fourth of July Voter Registration Drives Tomorrow

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 23:15:57 EDT

Tomorrow, all across New Mexico, we're celebrating America's Independence with a huge voter registration drive! It's not too late to find the event nearest you and make a difference this weekend!

Be sure to email your pictures from this weekend's voter registration drives to newmexico@barackobama.com

Happy Independence Day!

Declare Your Independence: Voter Registration Drive

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 22:05:52 EDT

Adrian Saenz, New Mexico State Director, just sent this email out to New Mexicans:

Caitlin,

My name is Adrian, and I'm the State Director for the Obama campaign in New Mexico.

I want to thank you for everything you've done so far to build our movement. Supporters like you answered the call for change in all 50 states and helped secure the Democratic nomination for Barack Obama.

New Mexico will play a crucial role in our general election strategy.

We have a great opportunity to succeed here, so we're rapidly gearing up for the months ahead. But only you can make this happen.

This Independence Day weekend, Obama supporters are coming together to help bring even more people into our political process by attending voter registration drives, walking in parades, and reaching out to folks in our communities.

Sign up to attend a July 4th Vote for Change event in your community:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMjuly4

The election will be here before we know it, and we cannot afford to wait to get started.

In fact, our work on the ground is already underway. Obama volunteers and staff have been registering voters around the state for more than two months, and supporters are gathering weekly to help with voter registration events.

In the coming weeks, volunteers across New Mexico will make important contact with friends, family, and neighbors to spread the word about this campaign.

Our campaign has proven the power of grassroots organizing. Now it's up to you to continue building this movement.

No previous experience is necessary to get involved. All you need is a hunger for change and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action.

Attend a July 4th Vote for Change event near you:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMjuly4

I look forward to working alongside you in the weeks to come.

Thanks,

Adrian

Adrian Saenz
New Mexico State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- Can't make it to a Vote for Change event this Independence Day? There will be plenty of opportunities to get involved as the campaign grows. Sign up now and learn how you can make a difference in New Mexico:

http://nm.barackobama.com/NMsignup

Find the event nearest you and get involved this weekend!

Organizational Meeting in Albuquerque

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:34:35 EDT

Last night, over 60 people came out to an organizational meeting at the Plumbers and Steamfitters Hall in Albuquerque to find out about opportunities to become involved in the campaign.

Regional Field Directors Dan and Allison kicked off the meeting by thanking those in attendance for all their hard work thus far, and encouraging them to get involved in a voter registration drive this weekend.

Allison said:

You guys are the backbone of this campaign. You know your communities. You've worked on campaigns here before and know what works and what doesn't. The grassroots campaign is what makes the Obama campaign so different and so special.
We need you to step up and hold leadership roles in your precincts. Over the next few months, we are going to build teams everywhere so that there are phonebanks going on in every precinct every day until November.

Dan spoke about upcoming events in the Albuquerque area, including a pre-July 4 Voter Registration and Visibliity event at the Downs Racetrack on Thursday from 4-9 p.m. and Voter Registration at the Albuquerque City Fireworks on Friday from 4-9 p.m.

After learning about upcoming events, volunteers were trained to become voter registration agents.

I spoke with David and Marietta, both of whom live in Albuquerque and have supported Barack "almost since the very beginning of his campaign."

Marietta was involved in Barack's campaign here in New Mexico during the primary and is excited to become involved again by registering voters this weekend. She says:

I believe in his value system. He's capable of making good decisions and I know he will do the right thing. I trust him to make the right decisions.

David, "an old community organizer," says he can relate to Barack's background as a community organizer and believes that it shaped who he is today. He said:

Barack has leadership skills and intelligence. I like how he has a willingness and eagerness to be inclusive.

Get involved in the campaign here in New Mexico this weekend by finding the voter registration drive near you!

Montana Has Hope

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:43:52 EDT

Here in Montana, hope is everywhere, including the top of Mount Helena!

There's still time to make your voice heard in Montana! Polls close in a little over four hours -- find your polling location and vote!

Montana Volunteer Spotlight: Eran in Billings

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:31:29 EDT

Eran is a married father of three who works as the Lead Organizer for a non profit organization dedicated to social, economic, and racial justice. He's been involved in Democratic politics since he was 15 years old, but says that this year's Presidential election will be the first Presidential election in which he feels like he is "voting for someone."

Barack's speech following the New Hampshire primary inspired Eran to become involved in the campaign. He found my.barackobama.com and began to network with other Billings residents. He decided to advertise the lunch meeting on my.barackobama.com, hoping that maybe a couple of folks would join him. He says:

Thirty four people showed up to that first meeting, after that 60, and then 100, and so on. I knew I had made the right decision, that all the buzz about the Obama movement was reality.

As a volunteer, he says:

I try to be where I am most helpful -- doing what I can to identify supporters (canvass, phone calls, precinct captains) but most important to me has been the idea of "Respect, Empower, Include," and working to actively engage the low income and disenfranchised neighborhoods of Billings.

...My proudest moment of this campaign isn’t actually getting to introduce Senator Obama at the Billings Townhall meeting (although that was way cool). It's what happened this past Saturday at OBAMA-RAMA, a completely grassroots volunteer organized event -- a team of us fundraised and organized a food drive/picnic/party in South Park, a low income community space. Over 350 people showed up to hear some great bands, bring food, eat food, and Get Out the Vote.

Healthcare is a very important issue to Eran. In January, he lost his employer paid health insurance for himself and his family because he couldn’t afford to pay the cost of the premiums. He says:

Now, we live just an accident and paycheck away from disaster. I believe that Senator Obama is the best choice for health care for all; I believe it will take a grassroots effort to overcome the insurance lobby, and I believe that Obama for America is creating that grassroots base.

The war in Iraq is another issue that is important to Eran. He says:

The Senator's stance on this from the beginning is crucial to me. He didn’t rush to champion this war because it was politically expedient. He opposed it from the beginning and I believe he’ll put an end to it.

Make sure to vote today! Polls are open until 8:00 p.m.!

"Michelle Obama: Push for change must continue beyond election"

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 11:43:45 EDT

From the Billings Gazette...

Long after the general election is over, Americans are going to have to stay engaged if the country's political environment is to change, Michelle Obama told a Billings crowd Monday.

The wife of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama told a few hundred supporters gathered at the Billings Hotel & Convention Center that they have to remain active in their communities and do their own research on issues to change the country's political path.

"The way this campaign has been run is the way we need to be forever," Obama said. "Don't trust bloggers or someone else's opinion, because people lie."

Obama's noon visit the day before the state primary was a reward to die-hard volunteers who have called and canvassed hundreds of Montana households for the U.S. senator's campaign.
The cost of the admission was a little political sweat, with attendees agreeing to sign up for a get-out-the-vote shift. Volunteers had to commit to knocking on at least 50 doors or making 100 phone calls. Many of the people at the event said they met those requirements months ago.

"We started in early April," said Elizabeth Ross, 18. "We started writing personal cards to women voters in Pennsylvania."

Ross and her twin sister, Hillary, have spent the past couple of weeks calling Billings voters, a chore that unearthed some misconceptions. One caller told the girls they must be Muslim if they were campaigning for Obama, who until recently had attended the same Christian church for 20 years.

Other volunteers, like Michelle Browder, had traveled the country stumping for Obama and have been in Billings for weeks to close out the primary election season. Browder, a restaurant owner from Montgomery, Ala., said she closed her business, PJR's Fish and Barbecue, last July after hearing Obama speak and decided to campaign for him. She sported a straw cowboy hat decorated with Obama pins. In her right hand, Browder held a wooden, red, white and blue Obama purse the size of a dinner plate. She was happy to be in Montana.

"Montana people are wonderful. Republicans, Libertarians, Democrats, they've been so nice," Browder said.

Michelle Obama never mentioned her husband's opponent, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., or the presumed Republican nominee, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. Her brief speech didn't include details about her husband's platform. Mostly, she thanked the volunteers for believing in her husband, who she said was not the Democratic Party's preordained candidate just a few months ago.

"It's not easy to believe, sometimes. And Barack Obama isn't always an easy candidate," she said. "He's got a funny name."

She singled out supporters who contributed relatively small amounts of money.

"You know when someone gives you $20 that it's probably her last $20," Obama said.

She noted that her husband had been adopted into an Indian tribe and that he was ecstatic when he came home and told her.

"The first thing he said when he came home was 'I've been adopted,' " Obama said. "He had the biggest smile on his face. And I understand that my new in-laws are here, Sonny and Mary Black Eagle. My girls can't wait. They don't even know what it means, but they're excited.

Make sure to vote today!

Michelle Obama Phonebanks in Kalispell

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:41:05 EDT

After her visit to The Nurturing Center, Michelle Obama stopped by a phonebank in Kalispell to thank local volunteers for all their hard work over the last fifteen months. She asked them to stay involved in the campaign and in the political process, saying:

We're gonna need you. Not just tomorrow, Election Day, but in the next four years, six years. All the miracles of this campaign are the efforts of regular folks who have just said 'enough' and have gotten involved.

Michelle couldn't resist getting involved herself, and joined the volunteers in making phone calls to remind Montanans to vote!

Volunteers made hundreds of calls this afternoon to remind Montanans to vote tomorrow! Do you have some free time this evening? Help make calls!

Michelle Obama Visits the Nurturing Center in Kalispell

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:07:58 EDT

This afternoon, Michelle Obama stopped by The Nurturing Center in Kalispell, Montana, where she read several books to local children, including Green Eggs and Ham.

After the books were finished, the children lined up to each give Michelle a big hug!

Stay tuned for more coverage of Michelle's visit to Kalispell, and remember to vote tomorrow if you live in Montana! Find your polling location here.

And if you don't live in Montana, help make calls to undecided Montanans before tomorrow's election!

One Last Thing

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:22:27 EDT

Barack just sent this email out to Montanans...

Caitlin --

I wanted to get in touch with you one last time before tomorrow's primary.

We've had a long journey together in Montana. For more than a year, you have been dedicated to the idea that when ordinary people come together, we can do extraordinary things.

It was inspiring to see our movement in Montana last week, and it strengthens my faith that the American people -- not just here, but across the country -- are ready to stop settling for what the cynics tell us we must accept and start reaching for what's possible.

This is our chance to make history.

But the election is going to be close, and it's vitally important that you vote and bring your family and friends to vote with you.

Find your polling place and vote tomorrow:

http://mt.barackobama.com/MTlookup

When Michelle and I talked about my running for president, one of the core goals we both had for this campaign was to leave the political process better off than we found it.

That's just what you've done in Montana. And you refused to let the tired old tactics of the political status quo distract you from building this grassroots movement.

If you get out and vote tomorrow -- and bring others to vote too -- our movement will continue to grow. The world will know that Montana stood up for a different kind of politics. And real change will be within reach.

Find your polling place:

http://mt.barackobama.com/MTlookup

Thank you,

Barack

P.S. -- Here are a few details and rules that will help make the voting process run smoothly. Make sure to share these with your friends:
Most polling places will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Polling places with fewer than 400 registered voters will be open from noon to 8:00 p.m. If you are in line when the polls close at 8:00 p.m., you have the right to vote.
Any registered voter can participate in the Democratic primary on June 3rd. Voters do not register by party and may vote either on the Republican or Democratic ballot.
You must show one of the following forms of identification: a current photo ID (for example, a valid driver's license, school ID, state ID, or tribal ID), a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, voter registration confirmation notice, government check, or other government document that shows your name and current address.
Any eligible voter may register and vote on Election Day. However, new voters must go to their county clerk's office in order to register.

Montana Volunteer Spotlight: Carol in Missoula

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 19:39:46 EDT

Carol, a retired restaurant management trainer and waitress, lives on her parents farm in the Grass Valley of Missoula, which she owns with her brother. She has six children that she "raised mostly by herself," and had to work two full time jobs in order to support them.

Healthcare is an important issue to Carol because says says:

I'm not old enough for Medicare. If I had had preventive medical care, I wouldn't have had to retire so early.

As a volunteer in our Missoula office, Carol phonebanks, does data entry, and helps out around the office. She says:

I'm the worker bee. I do whatever they ask me to do. I talk to a lot of people!

Veterans issues are really important to Carol, and she says, "my heart breaks for the veterans coming home. They're not getting the care that they need." She's impressed with Barack's plans to help our veterans, saying "he has a human consideration for what's going on."

Carol also likes how "Barack's donations come from regular people. He will not be beholden to big corporations, he will be beholden to us."

Carol is making sure that everyone she knows votes for Barack on June 3! Find your polling location and make sure to vote!

Michelle Obama to Get Out the Vote in Billings and Kalispell Tomorrow

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 15:29:05 EDT

On the heels of Barack’s third visit to Montana, Michelle Obama will make her first visit to Big Sky Country on Monday, June 2nd, rallying supporters and volunteers at a Get Out the Vote Canvass Kickoff in Billings and a Get Out the Vote Phonebank in Kalispell.

Here are the details:

Get Out the Vote Canvass Kickoff with Michelle Obama

Billings Hotel and Convention Center
1223 Mullowney Lane
Billings, MT

Doors Open: 10:45 a.m.
Program Begins: 12:00 p.m.

The Billings event is free and open to the public, however tickets are required. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis to anyone who signs up for a Get-Out-the-Vote shift before Election Day – committing to knock on at least 50 doors or make 100 phone calls. Volunteers will have the option of doing their door-to-door canvassing immediately following the event with Michelle Obama. Door-to-door canvass packets will be provided and the campaign will conduct a brief canvass training before canvassers depart to go door-to-door.

Tickets are available at the Obama HQ in Billings on Sunday, June 1 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. to anyone who signs up to work a Get Out the Vote shift before Election Day. The office is located at 222 North Broadway.

Get Out the Vote Phonebank with Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama will be in Kalispell on Monday afternoon for a Get Out the Vote phonebank. The event is free and open to any volunteer who brings their cell phone and participates in the phonebank, but space is limited and an RSVP to phonebank is required. Individuals without cell phones or who would rather go door-to-door will have that option as well.

Volunteers can RSVP to phonebank by visiting the Obama Campaign headquarters in Kalispell, located at 20 Four Mile Drive, or by calling the office at 406-257-5203.

Native American Early Vote Cookout in Great Falls

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 13:16:57 EDT

This past Wednesday, Native Americans from the Great Falls community gathered at our office and marched to the County Courthouse Annex to Early Vote. For some, it was the first time that they had ever voted. After casting their ballots, the group and local campaign staffers walked to a nearby park for a traditional cookout.

Residents of Great Falls can still participate in One-Stop Early Voting tomorrow from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the County Courthouse Annex at 325 2nd Ave North. If you can't vote tomorrow morning, make sure to vote on Tuesday, June 3 between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Find your Election Day polling location here.

Votes and Floats

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 31 May 2008 21:37:33 EDT

On Thursday, Billings Students for Barack Obama held "Votes and Floats," an early voting event at our Billings office. High schoolers, college students, and their familes came to the office for root beer floats, pizza, and music and were given a ride in supporter Karen's "Obama Mobile" to the courthouse to cast their ballots.

In all, 38 votes were cast for Senator Obama and 15 gallons of ice cream were used for the floats. Many of the students came back to the office after voting to make calls to undecided Montanans.

Make your voice heard by voting on Tuesday, June 3!

"Obama-mania hits ExpoPark"

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 31 May 2008 16:22:56 EDT

From the Great Falls Tribune...

Obama appeared at a rally in Great Falls Friday evening in advance of Montana's Tuesday election primary, which may help determine a major party's presidential nominee for the first time in memory.

Montana's primary voting concludes Tuesday at 8 p.m. MDT, qualifying the state as the country's final primary. South Dakota voting also takes place Tuesday, but voting there will end at 7 p.m.

Mathematically, results from Montana and South Dakota could put Obama over the top on the Democratic side. Puerto Rico holds its primary Sunday, with 55 delegates at stake; Montana has 16 delegates up for grabs, and South Dakota 15.

News organizations have estimated Obama needs from 40 to 50 delegates to wrap up the nomination. Recent polls showed Obama leading in Montana and South Dakota, but a strong Clinton showing in Puerto Rico may leave the final decision up to superdelegates.

Issues were at the forefront of Obama's half-hour speech Friday in Great Falls. The Illinois senator said he would carefully withdraw American troops from Iraq as Iraqis take control of their country's security.

"We'll be as careful getting out as we were careless getting in," Obama said.

Make your voice heard by voting on Tuesday, June 3! Find your polling location here.

Rally in Great Falls, Montana

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 30 May 2008 21:04:57 EDT

Barack just spoke about the differences between his Iraq policy and John McCain's at a rally in Great Falls, Montana. Check out the video:

Barack also spoke about his support for the second amendment, saying:

I believe in the second amendment, I believe in all parts of the Constitution. I believe in the rights of hunters and sportsmen, don't let folks tell you otherwise, because it's just not the facts. Remember, you're entitled to your own opinion, but not your own facts.

If you live in Montana, make sure to vote on June 3! Find your polling location here.

Waiting for Barack in Great Falls

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 30 May 2008 18:57:16 EDT

Barack is due to start speaking in about an hour at the Four Seasons Arena at Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls, and the crowd has been lining up for hours in order to get in!

I spoke with Donna and Linda, both of whom live in Denton, Montana. This is the first time that they will be hearing Barack speak in person, and even though doors didn't open until 4:00 p.m., they arrived at the Expo Center by 2:30 p.m.

Linda, an English and drama teacher, likes Barack's education plan and how he wants to make college affordable for all Americans. She says that Barack is intelligent, and likes how "he's not connected with lobbyists." She says:

He's got excellent ideas. I like how he expects us to work together...he'll be the people's President.

Donna, a nurse, says healthcare is an important issue to her, and she likes how "Barack can relate to our area. He gets the heartland and the west. He's worked in all levels of society."

Linda voted by absentee ballot for Barack, and Donna will be voting for Barack on Tuesday. Find your polling location, and make your voice heard on Tuesday, June 3!

Montana Rural Plan

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 30 May 2008 13:14:32 EDT

Yesterday, Former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle held a press conference call to release Barack Obama’s plan to strengthen rural Montana, entitled “Real Leadership for Rural Montana.” The plan was authored with the assistance of Montanans from across the state.

Last week, our campaign invited Montanans to go online and submit their ideas and priorities to help shape Senator Obama’s plan. Senator Daschle was joined on the call by Miles City native Sara Andrews, who contributed to the plan, is a former agriculture policy advisor to Senator Max Baucus.

You can read the Montana rural plan here.

Montana Volunteer Spotlight: Laura in Great Falls

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 29 May 2008 20:46:19 EDT

Laura grew up on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana and owns an insurance agency in Great Falls. She's never been involved on a campaign before, but after meeting Barack, was inspired to become involved with his campaign.

As a volunteer, she makes phone calls to Native Americans in Montana and organizes meetings in Browning. Using my.barackobama.com, Laura was able to find 70 people in Browning in one hour to help get Barack on the ballot in Montana.

As a small business owner, "adequate and affordable healthcare" is an important issue to Laura. She's also "impressed with Barack's stances on Native Americans issues, and how he wants to appoint a Native American advisor" when he's President.

Laura is excited to hear Barack speak at the rally in Great Falls tomorrow. RSVP to attend the rally, then make sure to vote early!

Montana's News Station: Great Falls readying for Obama visit

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 29 May 2008 14:47:30 EDT

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama will make a campaign stop Friday in Great Falls, marking his third trip to Montana this spring, and his first stop in the Electric City.

We talked with some excited Obama volunteers in the wake of the announcement to get their take on the news.

Some of them have been working for the campaign for a year and now with just days until the final primary, Great Falls will play host to its first presidential candidate of this race for the White House.

There was a buzz Wednesday night at the Barack Obama campaign headquarters in Great Falls.

"The first reaction was wow, I'm going to be very busy the next couple days" said volunteer Olivia Skari.

Volunteers who spend nights phoning voters received the news that their candidate would be making a third trip to Montana on Wednesday afternoon.

"Today we're proud to announce Senator Obama will return to Montana this Friday to discuss his agenda for change here in Great Falls" said Obama Campaign Montana State Director Gabe Cohen.

The event starts at 5:45 p.m. on Friday at the Four Seasons Arena with the doors opening up at 4:00 p.m. Obama's stop in Great Falls comes after previous visits to Missoula, Butte, Billings, Bozeman and the Crow Agency.

While tickets are not required for the event, those interested can get preferred viewing tickets beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday at Obama's Great Falls office at 18 Sixth Street North. They will be handed out on a first come, first serve basis.

RSVP for the event now!

Getting Out the Vote in Missoula

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 29 May 2008 12:19:23 EDT

On Tuesday evening, our Missoula office held a big Get Out The Vote training where they explained the process of canvassing and what exactly our campaign will be doing during GOTV. After the training, 85 people signed up for multiple GOTV shifts!

Yesterday morning, Jean Carnahan, Former Senator from Missouri, and Betsy Myers, National Chair of Women for Obama, held a special discussion over coffee in our Missoula office. After the meeting, everyone marched through downtown Missoula to the polls to vote early, chanting "Yes, We Can!"

After the march, everyone returned to the office to enjoy brunch and to make phone calls to undecided voters in Missoula. A local Missoula artist even screened t-shirts with a "Women for Obama" print.

Check out a slideshow of pictures from Tuesday's and Wednesday's events!

Make sure to vote early!

Barack Outlines Broad Plan to Correct Lapses in V.A. Services for Montanans Suffering from PTSD

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 28 May 2008 20:58:59 EDT

MISSOULA, MT – Senator Barack Obama released a report today on the major difficulties faced by Montana veterans in obtaining treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and outlined a broad agenda of investments and reforms to improve Montana’s VA services.

“When I first began working on this issue, I scanned the players at the federal level for potential allies in the fight. It didn't take me long to realize that Barack Obama has been one of our nation's veterans strongest supporters since the moment he arrived in the Senate. As someone who has lost a family member to a PTSD suicide, I was particularly touched when he reached across party lines to cosponsor the Joshua Omvig Suicide Prevention Bill to improve screening and treatment for at-risk veterans.

“I was honored to help Senator Obama develop a program to help the Veterans Administration care for Montana's injured veterans. Barack Obama understands that the combination of Montana's size, sparse population, and high percentage of veterans creates unique challenges; but that these challenges to not relieve our nation of its duty to provide effective treatment to our injured heroes,” said Matt Kuntz, a West Point Graduate and Army infantry veteran. Kuntz is a prominent Montana veterans advocate who advised the Obama campaign in preparing the report. The full text of the report is attached.

Senator Obama believes that the unique challenges that veterans in Montana face in getting access to PTSD treatment demands the attention of our nation’s leaders at the highest level. As president, he will ensure that VA system in Montana will get the oversight, direction and resources required to meet our solemn obligation to Montana’s veterans. The agenda he outlined today includes:
Providing full funding to the VA – including additional resources to improve care at the VA Hospital at Fort Harrison. He will also devote more resources to the community-based outpatient clinics in Kalispell, Anaconda, Missoula, Glendive, Great Falls, Bozeman, Billings, Miles City and Glasgow.

Launching a major effort to recruit and train mental health professionals at VA facilities across Montana. Obama believes we need additional counselors to reduce waiting lists and provide care to veterans and their families in their own communities.

Improving training throughout the military and requiring a mental health screening for every Montana veteran when they return from deployment. Experts believe mandatory screenings are critical because of the stigma attached to asking for help, or the fact that people might not realize the problem before it is too late.

Providing additional resources to develop more Vet Centers like those in Billings and Missoula – which are often the first line of defense for veterans to get help in their communities by offering counseling for vets and their families.

Directing his Secretary of Veterans Affairs to launch an investigation into Montana’s VA and other cases like it where there are clear disparities in the provision of veterans’ benefits for PTSD. He will direct the VA to ensure that the system is both accurate and fair to our nation’s veterans. Montana’s VA office has been the least likely in the country to grant these certifications.
The plan also includes steps to combat homelessness among our veterans, reduce the claims backlog, ensure that veterans can make the transition back to civilian life – and many other important reforms.

More than 1,200 Montanans have served in Iraq, including seven units of the Montana National Guard.

You can read the full report here.

Barack in Great Falls on Friday!

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:48:45 EDT

Please join Barack Obama for a rally in Great Falls, where he'll talk about his vision for bringing America together and creating the kind of change we can believe in.

Rally with Barack Obama

Four Seasons Arena
Montana ExpoPark
400 3rd Street, NW
Great Falls, MT

Friday, May 30th
Doors Open: 4:00 p.m.
Program Begins: 5:45 p.m.

RSVP Now:

http://mt.barackobama.com/greatfalls

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required, but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Limited preferred viewing tickets are also available on a first-come, first-served basis at the following location:

Obama for America Great Falls Headquarters

18 Sixth Street North
Great Falls, MT

Thursday, May 29th
Tickets Available: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Please note: preferred viewing tickets are not required for admission.

For security reasons, do not bring bags. Please limit personal belongings. No signs or banners permitted.

We need your help volunteering at the rally sign up to volunteer!

Find your Early Vote location and vote for Barack today!

Montana Volunteer Spotlight: Nate in Bozeman

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 28 May 2008 15:24:00 EDT

Nate, a longtime resident of Bozeman, Montana, volunteered for Barack's campaign in Washington state before returning to Montana to volunteer. When I spoke with him, he was canvassing his neighborhood and encouraging folks to vote early for Barack.

Nate has followed Barack since he was a state legislator in Illinois, and likes how he is "open, candid, and willing to discuss issues. He's stuck to his beliefs."

Having traveled around the world, foreign policy is an important issue to Nate. He believes that the United States will gain "instant credibility if and when Barack becomes President."

Nate says he volunteers "wherever the campaign most needs help." In April, he volunteered in our Bozeman office every day, and continues to stop by and volunteer whenever he has free time.

Nate is encouraging everyone he knows to help Get Out the Vote! In Montana and across the country, grassroots volunteers like Nate are making calls to encourage supporters to vote early in Montana! It only takes a minute to get started, and the Montana calling campaign runs tonight until 9:00 PM Mountain Time.

Help Us Get Out the Vote!

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 28 May 2008 11:36:59 EDT

Carrie Glenn, Montana Field Director, just sent this email out:

Dear Caitlin,

Get Out The Vote in Montana Here in Montana, we have the final word.

Our last-in-the-nation contest is coming up less than one week from today, and we have the chance to put Barack over the top and help secure the nomination.

This is it -- the final push of this primary season. In the next six days, it's crucial that we all step up to help Barack succeed.

Our Get Out The Vote effort will run from Friday, May 30th to Tuesday, June 3rd. Can we count on your help?

Sign up to Get Out The Vote for Barack in your community:

http://mt.barackobama.com/mtgotv

From rallies in Bozeman and Crow Agency to our Sportsmen for Obama events across the state, our campaign has been about reaching out to all Montanans -- building a movement for change from the ground up.

In these final days, only you can finish this work.

Folks are needed to go door-to-door in every community and reach out to as many potential supporters as possible before Election Day.

Join us and help Get Out The Vote for Barack:

http://mt.barackobama.com/mtgotv

Thanks,

Carrie

Carrie Glenn
Montana Field Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- You don't have to wait until June 3rd to cast your ballot for change.

Even if you aren't registered to vote, you can register and vote early for Barack all at once.

Look up your One-Stop Early Vote location and vote for Barack today:

http://mt.barackobama.com/mtearlyvote

If you've already voted early, use our simple online tool to make sure your friends and family in Montana know where to vote early:

http://mt.barackobama.com/mtlookupinvite

New TV Ad in Montana: "Achieve"

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 27 May 2008 17:14:13 EDT

Tomorrow, our campaign will begin running a new ad statewide in Montana focusing on the financial squeeze facing hardworking Montana families. The 30-second television spot, entitled “Achieve,” features footage of Senator Obama speaking and meeting with voters in Montana to discuss the rising cost of living – from the cost of college and health care to the difficulty Montanans face in saving for retirement.

You can view “Achieve” here:

Check out Barack's economic policy plan here, and make sure to vote early!

Wolf Point Office Opening

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 26 May 2008 17:41:23 EDT

More than fifty people came out to the opening of our campaign office in Wolf Point, Montana on Thursday night, which is located at 107 East Anaconda Street.

According to the locals, this is the first time that a presidential campaign has ever had an office on tribal land in Montana. Everyone discussed why they are supporting Barack, and local field organizer Ryan Lynch spoke about different ways to get involved with the campaign, such as canvassing and making phone calls to undecided voters.

We now have 13 offices all across Montana -- find the one closest to you and stop on by! Make sure to vote early!

Join Montana First Americans for Obama

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 26 May 2008 16:28:24 EDT

Montana First Americans for Obama is a community of people dedicated to bringing positive change to American politics and breaking the cycle of partisan ideology. Perhaps more so than any populations, American Indians are painfully aware of the need for change. Tribes have experienced firsthand the lack of progress under prior administrations.

Join Montana First Americans today:

You can use this website to learn about Obama’s policy initiatives supporting tribal peoples, to spread the word, and to involve your family, friends, and community. Together, we can bring in a new generation of politics – one based on respect, honor, and unity.

Visit Tribes.BarackObama.com to learn about Barack’s policy initiatives supporting tribal peoples.

Billings Students for Obama

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 26 May 2008 15:32:43 EDT

Our Students for Barack Obama group in Billings, Montana held a meeting on Thursday night to discuss ways in which students can become involved with the campaign. Twenty-three current interns attended, and an additional six interns were recruited during the meeting.

After pizza, soda, and introductions, the students planned an Early Vote event entitled "Votes and Floats," which will feature Root Beer floats and a trip vote early. The students will also canvass downtown Billings with early vote fliers to persuade people in downtown Billings to vote between the time they leave work at 5:00 p.m. and the Board of Elections closing time at 6:00 p.m.

After the planning meeting, the students committed to 70 Get Out the Vote (GOTV) shifts and took sign up sheets with them to recruit more. They ended the evening with a 20 student phone bank competition with chum as prizes for top callers!

If you live in Montana, make sure to vote early!

Colonel Jay Parker in Bozeman

Caitlin Harvey — Mon, 26 May 2008 13:49:58 EDT

On Friday afternoon, Colonel Jay Parker held a roundtable discussion with a crowd of about 45 Obama supporters and undecided voters about Senator Obama’s veterans affairs and national security policies at our Obama campaign office in downtown Bozeman.

Jay Parker is a retired Colonel in the U.S. Army. Additionally, he was an advisor to the Iraq Study Group, a West Point Instructor, and is a member of Senator Obama’s national security and veterans policy advisory committees.

Following the roundtable, Colonel Parker joined Obama volunteers to make phone calls to undecided voters in the Bozeman area.

Make sure that you vote early!

Montana Volunteer Spotlight: Vicki in Great Falls

Caitlin Harvey — Sun, 25 May 2008 19:35:57 EDT

Vicki, a former teacher from Great Falls, is a lifelong Republican who is supporting Barack for President. She admires Barack becase she says, "he's a thinking person," and she and her husband, a retired officer in the military, both voted for Barack by absentee ballot.

Vicki has canvassed her neighborhood, and stops by our Great Falls office on a regular basis to make phone calls to undecided voters. When she talks to someone who says they're a Republican, she replies, "well I'm a Republican too, but I'm supporting Barack because he's the most qualified candidate." She also passes out "Republicans for Obama" buttons around her neighborhood."

Vicki supplies gifts for veterans and says, "I support the veterans and the troops." She is opposed to the war in Iraq and is glad that "Barack had the judgment to speak out against it."

Vicki was one of the ten winners of the "Montana Change Challenge," and after knocking on over 100 doors last Saturday, she was able to meet Barack after his rally in Bozeman. She said that the event in Bozeman was "electrifying," and that Barack's charisma "reminds me of JFK. I like how he attracts the youth to vote."

Vicki is encouraging everyone she speaks with to vote early, and so can you! Visit your local office today and get involved!

Wolf Point Office Opening

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 24 May 2008 19:25:14 EDT

More than fifty people came out to the opening of our campaign office in Wolf Point on Thursday night, which is located at 107 East Anaconda Street.

We now have 13 offices all across Montana -- find the one closest to you and stop on by! Make sure to vote early!

Billings Students for Obama

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 24 May 2008 16:19:15 EDT

Our Students for Barack Obama group in Billings held a meeting on Thursday night to discuss ways in which students can become involved with the campaign. Twenty-three current interns attended, and an additional six interns were recruited during the meeting.

Make sure to vote early!

Women for Obama Missoula Group Meeting

Caitlin Harvey — Sat, 24 May 2008 14:40:23 EDT

On Thursday night, our Women for Obama group in Missoula met to discuss the ways to get involved in the campaign in Montana, and make phone calls to undecided Montanans.

After enjoying a dinner of soup, salad, brownies, and chocolate chip cookies, the group made over 1,100 calls to Montanans, and they plan to meet again next Thursday to continue their work.

You can find out more about getting involved with Women for Obama here! And if you live in Montana, make sure to vote early!

Tell Us Your Ideas to Strengthen Rural Montana

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 23 May 2008 13:28:12 EDT

Tell us your ideas for bringing about the change we need for rural Montana!

Next week, Senator Obama will be releasing a broad agenda to strengthen the rural economy in Montana – and he wants to make sure that it responds to the concerns of Montanans. The best, most comprehensive plan for change in our country will include your ideas and your feedback. Everyone deserves a voice in shaping our next president's agenda.

Take a moment to share your ideas. Senator Obama is inviting Montanans to go online and offer their personal stories about the challenges that rural communities and families face every day – and the priorities that they want to see addressed. Be as broad or specific as you want:

After you share your ideas, make sure to vote early!

New Radio Ad in Montana: "Commitment"

Caitlin Harvey — Fri, 23 May 2008 11:21:18 EDT

Recently, our campaign began airing a new radio ad featuring Great Falls resident and Vietnam Veteran Bill Boland. In the 60-second spot titled “Commitment,” Bill praises Barack Obama’s promise to keep our sacred trust with the men and women who have served our country. Bill said:

Barack Obama has truly delivered for veterans and for me, a veteran of Vietnam, that is key. He doesn’t just talk about supporting our troops; he’s actually done it through his work on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. Barack Obama is a man of honor. He is a rare of breed of politician: someone we can trust because he shares our values of honesty and integrity.

An active volunteer for our campaign in Great Falls, Bill makes phone calls to neighbors and puts up yard signs regularly to help spread Barack’s message of change in Great Falls and across the state.

You can listen to “Commitment” here:

Read more about Barack’s plans to support America’s veterans here.

Montana Volunteer Spotlight: Teri in Bozeman

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 22 May 2008 20:22:48 EDT

A graduate of Montana State University, Teri lives in Bozeman and considers herself to be "an independent voter." She has four grandchildren and says that she decided to volunteer for Barack's campaign "for them."

Teri is a small donor and became involved in the campaign "as soon as the office opened." When I spoke to her, she had just finished writing a letter to the editor of her local newspaper about why she supports Barack. She says she likes Barack's ethics and inclusiveness, and how "he wants to bring Americans together and get them interested and involved."

Teri likes how Barack seeks diverse opinions and says "we need a problem solver who's fearless and listening to the opinions of others." She also likes how he's a constitutional scholar and uses "original and critical thinking."

In her duties as the phone bank coordinator for our Bozeman office, Teri works to "round up people and keep a steady flow of phonebankers in our office." She believes that Barack has "put together one of the strongest campaigns" and encourages everyone she meets to get involved.

Visit the Montana office nearest you and get involved today!

Spring Art Walk in Helena

Caitlin Harvey — Thu, 22 May 2008 13:08:01 EDT

Last Friday, Obama volunteers in Helena staffed a table outside our office at the annual Spring Art Walk on the walking mall.

Volunteers reminded passers-by to vote early, and passed out copies of Barack's "Blueprint for Change."

If you live in Montana, make sure to vote early, then sign up for a volunteer shift in your local office!

Women for Obama Election Day in Billings

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 21 May 2008 18:51:34 EDT

Today, our Women for Obama group in Billings, Montana is hosting a "Women for Obama Election Day." Women of all ages and from all parts of Yellowstone County were invited to participate in one of two events held at the Billings Obama for America HQ and were encouraged to use this opportunity to cast their early votes for Senator Obama at the Yellowstone County Courthouse around the corner.

A group of about 20 women gathered at 7:30 a.m. to kick off the day with a Women's Breakfast, complete with yogurt, fresh fruit, and discussion. Field Organizer Lauren Dula spoke briefly about the dilemma many women have in choosing between Senator Obama and Senator Clinton, and encouraged all women to use this opportunity to learn what can be achieved through action and community organizing. Various issues of concern to women were discussed, from health care to energy concerns, and all were encouraged to vote early throughout the day.

Anna and Ashley are Billings residents and volunteers who were heading to the Courthouse following the Breakfast to cast their ballots for Senator Obama.

Tonight at 6:00 p.m., our Women for Obama group in Billings will host a Women's Tea and Reception in the headquarters to celebrate their early votes, network, and enjoy speakers and a raffle for various prizes, including Women for Obama T-shirts, a "Dreams From My Father" audio book, and framed HOPE posters.

Make sure to vote early!

Montana Volunteer Spotlight: Christine in Billings

Caitlin Harvey — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:57:13 EDT

Christine lives in Billings and is the seventh generation of her family to live in the Rocky Mountain region. She says, "I'm a Montana girl through and through."

She's never been motivated to work on a campaign until now and says there are three main reasons why she supports Barack: he is grounded, he is aware of the issues that are important to Americans, and he is a "visionary." She says:

He has a rare and unusual combination of attributes. Many politicians are smart but not in touch, but that he's got the whole thing...Barack identifies with and understands what middle class Americans are going through. He has an amazing heart and you can tell that he really cares.

A single mom with three kids who has also raised many foster children, she "sees a lot of dispair among youth...many of them don't have a solid home base." She believes Barack is an inspiration to them, and took 12 kids to hear him speak in Butte. Education is an important issue to her, and she likes Barack's plan to make college affordable for all Americans.

She says:

Barack has the ability to make people realize that they do count. He's about substance and solutions, not about negatives.

Christine has been calling people to encourage them register to vote and talks to people everywhere she meets. She says:

I engage people standing at the grocery store and make sure that they register to vote. If people have misperceptions about Barack, I tell them the truth.

You can register to vote and vote early all at once! Find your early voting location here.

New TV Ad in Montana: "Next Door"

Caitlin Harvey — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:08:38 EDT

Today, our campaign announced a new television ad in Montana, entitled "Next Door." In the ad, Barack highlights his commitment to take on the special interests and turn the page on the broken politics of Washington to finally solve the critical problems facing Montanans.

Check out the ad:

Make sure to vote early!