Merici Vinton's Blog

Election Day Continues

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:47:51 EST

You’re probably at home...nervously watching the returns.

Turn that energy into phone calls. Start calling western battle ground states before time runs out.

The polls may be closed here in North Carolina, but there are still plenty of states that are still voting – which means that there are still a lot of voters to contact.

You have poured so much into this race here in North Carolina – and now you can help Barack out in other states.

Make calls now.

Extension of Polling Hours in Wake 16-08

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 19:04:59 EST

The outcome in North Carolina is going to be incredibly close. If you haven't yet voted, it is crucial that you do so right now.

If you live in precinct 16-08 in Wake County, polling hours in your precinct have been extended until 8:30 p.m. If you are in line by 8:30 p.m., you will be allowed to vote tonight:

Wake 16-08
Barwell Road Community Center
3935 Barwell Road
Raleigh

If you're not sure whether you're registered in this precinct, look it up now and and get to the polls right away:

http://www.voteforchange.com

Please let your friends and familiy know and make sure they get out to vote tonight.

"They Wear Nice Shirts"

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 19:11:53 EST

You are more than a shirt.

You are more than a rally attendee.

Today, John McCain's campaign said, “The fact that young people have not made up a larger share of early voters this year proves that Obama has failed in his mission to reshape the active voting population on a broad scale...The whole premise of Barack Obama's campaign was, 'We're going to restructure the political dynamic in America.' There has not been a restructuring...Where's the youth vote? They come to his events. They wear nice shirts."

Each one of you has helped make this campaign possible - and the McCain campaign has written you off. Let's prove them wrong. You have been working towards tomorrow, Election Day, for months now - if not longer. Now is not the time to drop the ball or live up to the low expectations set by the pundits and other campaigns.

We know you care - we have seen you volunteering and dedicating so much of your precious time to help Barack win.

The most important thing you can do is help get your friends and classmates to vote tomorrow. We need your help to Get Out the YOUTH Vote. Volunteer tomorrow: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCGOTV

Most campuses have polling locations close to campus - find your polling location and what you might need to bring tomorrow at the NC Election Center: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCvote

Share these links with your friends - encourage them to vote and then volunteer - and together, we will make history.

Wearing a shirt is not enough - vote tomorrow.

Jay-Z in Greensboro TODAY

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 10:33:33 EDT

UPDATE: We regret to announce that due to unforeseen circumstances, the “Vote for Change” Rally scheduled for Charlotte today has been cancelled.

Today's Greensboro rally is still om.

And you can still text message NCJAYZ to OBAMA (62262) for a chance to meet Jay-Z in Greensboro.

Vote for Change Rally
with Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, Kevin Liles and Russell Simmons

North Carolina A&T State University
North Steps of Memorial Student Union (Sullivan Street between Drew Dr & North Benbow Rd)
Greensboro, NC 27411

Saturday, November 1st
Gates open: 2:30 PM

The event is free and no ticket is required; however RSVP is strongly encouraged. RSVP here: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCJAYZ

Yesterday was Election Day

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:43:23 EDT

...And so is today, tomorrow, and Saturday.

There are three days left for North Carolina to One-Stop Early Vote, so the good news is that if you didn't vote early yesterday, you can do it today.

The bad news is our field organizers are still trying to get you to the polls. Once you cast your Early Vote, they can focus their Election Day efforts on reaching other supporters who may need another reminder.

It's so important that our organizers work as efficiently as possible. The election in North Carolina is coming Down to the Wire - and even cast members from The Wire want you to volunteer...

One-Stop Early Voting is easy and takes just a few minutes; those minutes are a huge help to the campaign on November 4th. So find a One-Stop Early Vote location in your county now:http://NC.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly

And after you've voted, help us Get Out The Vote this weekend. This race is down to the wire – and we need your help. Volunteer to help put Barack over the top here in North Carolina: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCGOTV

How will you early vote?

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:19:53 EDT

There are four days left for you to One-Stop Early Vote, North Carolina. It only takes a few minutes, it's really easy, and it's going to make our field organizers so much more efficient on Election Day.

Find a One-Stop Early Voting location in your county today: http://NC.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly

Once you've found it, go vote! You can get there any way you like. You can walk, you can drive a car, or - like a group of Obama supporters did last weekend in Lincolnton - you can ride a hay wagon.

Hay! Vote Early today!

The end of One-Stop Early Voting is just a few days away. Go vote before it's over. And then volunteer - bring your hay wagons, friends and let's get out the early vote!

Barack in Raleigh for an Early Vote For Change Rally

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:31:23 EDT

Today Barack will be in Raleigh for an EARLY VOTE FOR CHANGE Rally. With only four days left to One-Stop Early Vote, Barack is going to encourage all North Carolinians to vote early. The event starts at 12:00 p.m. Watch his rally here...

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can register and vote - all at once. You can vote anywhere in your county. It's easy! Just make sure that you vote for Barack separately. If you vote ONLY for a straight party ticket, then you haven't voted for President. Find the One-Stop Early Voting locations and hours in your county.

Watch Barack's rally and then take a few minutes to write a letter to the editor about why you think the Obama-Biden ticket is right for North Carolina.

No Excuse to Wait: Only 5 days left.

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 19:37:37 EDT

OK, North Carolina: you only have five days left to One-Stop Early Vote.

We want all of our supporters to vote early. Why? It's simple - once you vote, our field organizers can stop trying to reach you and will focus on getting other supporters to the polls. As the election draws near, our field staff needs to be as efficient as possible - and getting our supporters to vote early truly helps us reach out to people who need another reminder to vote.

Plus, early voting is easy and only takes a few minutes. Why wouldn't you do it? And remember, Barack asked you to do it:

There are just five days left in One-Stop Early Voting. North Carolina is going to be very close, so help our field staff to reach more voters by voting early today.

Take a few minutes to One-Stop Early Vote. It's easy, it's fast, and those precious minutes have a huge impact on our field campaign.

Find a One-Stop Early Voting location in your county now: http://NC.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly

NC State Super Volunteers

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:23:17 EDT

Meet four super volunteers: Clay, Atreyu, Carolyn and Melissa. All four are students at NC State and they volunteer both on campus with NCSU Students for Barack Obama and at the Central Raleigh office.

Carolyn:

I have been involved on campaigns since high school; I have worked for Rep. Schuler and other local campaigns. I am busy in school, but did not want to pass up on this opportunity. I didn't want to take a chance on him not winning.

Clay:

This election is important to my generation because it is going to affect the rest of our lives.

Atreyu:

The first election I voted in was 2004. I did not volunteer and I felt partly responsible for the results. I am from North Carolina and I love that I can be a part of it here in my home state. It's actually a battleground state. In the primaries, I knew people who travelled to Iowa and South Carolina - and the NC primary was almost an afterthought. But it mattered - and was a part of Barack's nomination. And now North Carolina matters more than ever.

Clay, Atreyu, Carolyn and Melissa are doing what they can in between class, exams and studying to help Barack win. How much time can you give? There are only 6 days until the last day of one-stop early voting on November 1st. VOTE EARLY and then sign up to VOLUNTEER today.

Joe Biden's Raleigh Rally

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:39:19 EDT

Yesterday Senator Joe Biden traveled across North Carolina and held three Change We Need rallies in Charlotte, Winston-Salem and Raleigh. We had a chance to catch up with him in Raleigh and here is what he said to a packed audience of over 7,000 at Meredith College,

I know how patriotic the people of North Carolina are. This is a state of 790,000 veterans. It has more than 5,300 North Carolina sons and daughters deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq.

...There are heroes all over Amercia in every state and in every town. We all love this country.

...That is why we should be ending these scurrilous phone calls and e-mails that are going out. They lie about Barack Obama. These attacks don't hurt Barack. They are an attempt to divide the country and distract us from the things that really matter.

While scanning the crowd for people wearing "I Voted Early" stickers, I met Peggy and John. They not only voted early, but will be driving other voters to their One-Stop Early Voting locations.

Both have been supporters of Barack since the North Carolina primary. Here is what Peggy had to say about why she supports Barack:

We prefer Barack's health care plan. I am appalled at the current state of our health care system - tremendous reform is needed. We also support Barack for his judgement on the Iraq war. Finally, like every one else, we are negatively impacted by the economy. McCain played a role in the decisions and policies that brought the economy to where it is today.

Here are some more pictures from the rally...

Peggy and John voted early. Joe Biden wants North Carolinians to vote early. ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early today through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. Find your One-Stop Early Voting location now.

James Taylor Comes Home to North Carolina

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 22:57:01 EDT

James Taylor wrapped up his tour in support of Barack today. Over five concerts in three days, Mr. Taylor shared why he thinks Barack is right for North Carolina with supporters across the state - while also encouraging each audience member to vote early for Barack. This is what he had to say last night in his hometown of Chapel Hill:

I'm very pleased to be back here - back home in Chapel Hill. Above all I'm honored and thrilled and delighted to be able to be a part of this historic moment - this Obama campaign. I commend you all. Hats off to you for the work you've done and for the work that you will do. We're in the home stretch, this is the crucial point where it all comes right down to it. We've got to get those votes out. I feel a kinship - we have all been summoned to do service to the campaign and to stand up and make an effort for our country.

The audience was a mix of students and non-students and I had a chance to meet Erin, a volunteer with UNC Students for Change. She is a sophomore and has been active since...Iowa. That's right. Erin is from Cedar Rapids and began volunteering on the campaign before most people had even heard of Barack.

I have throughly enjoyed the excitement of volunteering and being a part of the grassroots campaign. When I was a volunteer in Iowa, the campaign was so new and local - now I am so excited that I can help out here in North Carolina, as well. The race in North Carolina started to get closer when we got back to school this fall - and it's great to be able to help out here.

James Taylor and Erin are doing their part - now it's your turn to volunteer. James Taylor put in three days. Erin volunteers weekly. How much time can you give? Sign up now to volunteer.

Pictures from Barack in Fayetteville

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:14:01 EDT

Barack was in Fayetteville on Sunday for a Change We Need Rally. It was a packed event, with an energetic crowd fired up for change. Kenisha, a local Obama field organizer, asked the crowd to vote early and volunteer - with only 2 weeks left, each volunteer hour is vital to helping our efforts on the ground.

Here are some pictures from the rally. Did you attend the rally? Click HERE to hear your stories and see your pictures.

There are two weeks left. We need your help now. How much time can you give to help in your neighborhood? Volunteer today.

Extended Hours + Locations for One-Stop Early Voting in Wake County

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 15:57:19 EDT

We have some good news to report for Wake County residents.

The county has just announced extended hours and days for 4 new One-Stop Early Voting locations in your area. This will mean a hassle-free experience for you as you cast your vote early for Barack Obama.

So if you haven't cast your vote yet, please do. Remember, you can vote early whether you've registered already or not.

The following One Stop Early Voting locations are now open:

1) Cary Towne Center Mall
1105 Walnut St., Cary
Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-7pm.

2) Chavis Community Center
505 Martin Luther King Blvd., Raleigh
Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-7pm.

3) Pullen Arts Center
105 Pullen Rd., Raleigh
Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-7pm.

4) Triangle Town Center Mall
5959 Triangle Town Blvd., Raleigh
Open: Mon-Sat, 10am-7pm.

5) Wake Co. Board of Elections:
337 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh
Open: Mon-Fri, 8:30am-5:00pm; Sat, Oct 25, 10am-7pm; Sun, Oct 26, 1pm-5pm; Sat, Nov 1, 10am-1pm

Today through Wednesday, October 22nd, you can vote at any of these five locations. Starting Thursday, you can vote at any of the 15 One-Stop Early Voting locations across Wake County. Find the One-Stop Early Voting location nearest you: voteforchange.com

So please make sure to vote early, and get all your friends to join you. The elections of our lifetime has already begun, and early voting is key to victory.

Visit the NC Elections Center to find everything you need to bring to One-Stop Early Vote.

5 Cumberland Co. One-Stop Early Voting Locations are Open Tomorrow

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 13:03:19 EDT

Guess what – not only is Barack coming to Fayetteville on Sunday (Oct 19th) – but Cumberland County will open five One-Stop Early Voting locations on Sunday from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

That’s right – you can see Barack and show your support for him by voting for him. All in the same day. Now that is one exciting and productive day!

Barack’s Change We Need Rally will be at the Crown Coliseum at 1:30 – doors open at 11:00 a.m. The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required; however an RSVP is strongly encouraged. RSVP Here: http://my.barackobama.com/fayettevillechange

Then, head on over to a One-Stop Early Voting location that’s open this Sunday (Oct 19th): http://nc.barackobama.com/NCCumberlandCoOSEV

One-Stop Early Voting – make sure your vote counts. Vote Early. You can register and vote – all at the same time. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Find the hours and locations for One-Stop Early Voting sites in your county now.

Greenville Reflector Endorses the Obama-Biden Ticket

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 11:59:29 EDT

Today the Greenville Reflector endorsed Barack:

Friday, October 17, 2008

For President
On Nov. 4, North Carolina voters will head to the polls for the general election. The Daily Reflector will recommend candidates in races prior to that vote, and today focuses on the presidency.
For U.S. Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain, the campaign for the White House required an exhausting, grueling process spanning nearly two years. It necessitated an overwhelming investment of resources reflecting the high stakes and tremendous opportunity this election represents.
As Americans choose their next president, they should take careful measure of the candidates and determine which can chart the best course over the next four years. In doing so, American voters should conclude that Obama, the Democratic senator from Illinois, will be the leader of vision, intellect and temperament the nation needs.
Though style and flash always weigh heavily on presidential campaigns in the modern era, Americans look to the issues as they thoughtfully weigh the decision before them. And this year, Obama bests McCain on the most daunting challenges now facing the country.
Economic turbulence can be calmed through the sound fiscal policy Obama promotes. His tax plan moves the country away from the reckless budgets of the Bush administration and divides financial burden in a more equitable manner. McCain, conversely, would extend excessively large tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans passed at Bush's insistence in 2001, driving the nation further into debt.
On health care, Obama's plan would go further than McCain's proposal to provide coverage for the 47 million uninsured Americans by allowing them access to a federal system used by members of Congress. Independent reviews call it a more thorough and affordable plan.
On foreign policy, Obama wants to shift the military focus from Iraq to Afghanistan, a move that would ratchet up pressure on the al-Qaida leadership responsible for the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks and the Taliban forces that protect them. He argues that diplomatic negotiations with all nations foster a safer world, and that the country's strength lies not only in its military might but in its compassion toward those oppressed by tyrants.
Obama argues a more thoughtful approach to energy independence, one that invests in renewable energy sources and limits a reliance on fossil fuels in general and foreign oil in particular. And on a host of other issues — from ensuring the solvency of Social Security to the need for comprehensive, rational immigration reform — his positions represent the type of progressive leadership that can restore confidence in the leadership of the White House.
Obama has been dismissed by opponents as little more than an exemplary orator, a man with limited political experience who is unprepared for the challenges ahead. He has been the subject of blatant falsehoods about his religious background and attacked as a radical leftist with dangerous associates.
But Obama has responded by relentlessly seeking to raise the level of public discourse and by focusing on the path toward an America that lives up to its promise as the greatest, most prosperous nation in history. His potential for achieving that outweighs McCain's.
The United States needs a new start with leaders capable of bringing innovative solutions to the troubling challenges that face this nation. For those reasons, the country needs Barack Obama as its president.

Share your story and why you support Barack and Joe- write a letter to the editor and submit it to your local paper. Start writing now.

James Taylor is "Goin' to Carolina" for Obama

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 09:31:17 EDT

Music legend James Taylor will tour North Carolina in support of Barack Sunday, October 19 through Tuesday, October 21. Taylor will help spread Senator Obama’s message of change to Tar Heel voters and encourage Obama supporters to get out and vote early.

CHANGE WE NEED CONCERTS:

Charlotte
Sunday, October 19th

Asheville
Sunday, October 19th

Chapel Hill
Monday, October 20th

Raleigh
Tuesday, October 21st

Wilmington
Tuesday, October 21st

For ticketing information and more, visit: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCJamesTaylor

Top Ten Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #1

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 19:01:04 EDT

And now, the moment you’ve been for...the number one reason why you should vote early for Barack:

To Renew the American Promise.

The stakes of this election are high -- higher than perhaps they've ever been. Our economy is reeling. Our health care costs are higher than ever. A college education is becoming harder to afford just when it's needed most. Our nation is at war and faces new and different threats to our national security. Our climate is warming. In so many ways, we are all standing at a crossroads. When we vote, we chose our path. We should vote early because with the stakes this high, there is simply no time to lose.

Make your voice heard – vote early for Barack and Joe.

“All across America something is stirring, what the naysayers don’t understand is that this election has never been about me, it has been about you.”
~ Barack Obama

North Carolina – change begins with us today.

Make your voice heard – vote early. And then volunteer to help Barack renew the American promise. Sign up to volunteer: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCVolunteer

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early today through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.
8. Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.
7. Be among the first to vote for a change from eight years of failed Bush-McCain policies.
6. Because I missed the voter registration deadline for election-day voting.
5. To impress my old Social Studies teacher.
4. Because I can’t stand the thought of four more years like the last eight.
3. Because I am FIRED UP and READY TO GO...to EARLY VOTE
2. Because One-Stop Early Voting allows you to fix registration problems or re-register on the spot.
1. To Renew the American Promise.

One-Stop Early Vote NOW

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:37:18 EDT

Election Day starts today.

You can One-Stop Early Vote now.

It's the easiest and surest way to make sure your vote counts.

You can even register and vote all at the same time. It's easy, even if you have never voted before.

Visit voteforchange.com to find a polling location in your county.

Winning NC in 100,000 hours

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 23:31:17 EDT

Here is an email I received from Marc Farinella, your North Carolina for Obama State Director:

Dear Merici,

Here in North Carolina, the election of our lifetime has begun
All across the state, One-Stop Early Voting locations have opened their doors and voters have started casting their ballots. Supporters like you have an early opportunity to change the future of North Carolina -- and our country.
Our strategy comes down to one thing: We have to get as many Obama supporters as possible to vote early.
You are a crucial part of this ambitious voter turnout plan, but it's going to take a lot of work. In fact, it will require 100,000 volunteer hours between now and November 1st. That's a lot of hours, but we can make it happen by working together.
Please sign up right now to contact voters and let them know about One-Stop Early Vote.
You'll help reach out to hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians who support this campaign for change but may not know about voting early.
Nothing is more effective at getting folks to vote than talking to them one-on-one. With so many people to reach, and polls opening in less than 24 hours, there's no time to waste.
Here's the goal: 100,000 volunteer hours between now and November 1st.
Can you help make this happen by signing up for a few volunteer hours right now?
http://nc.barackobama.com/NC100Khours.
You'll be contacted by a field organizer who will give you everything you need to get started...

Thank you for making all of this possible,
Marc

Marc Farinella
North Carolina State Director
Obama for America

Top 10 Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #2

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 21:23:57 EDT

Because One-Stop Early Voting allows you to fix registration problems or re-register on the spot.

That’s right – One-Stop Early Voting is so easy that you just have to show up.

Moved recently? Unsure of your voter registration status? Not yet registered?

No problem. Head on over to any One-Stop Early Voting location in your county and you can fix any registration problems and cast your ballot- all at the same time. It’s that easy. And that’s why we want each and every supporter to vote early for Barack.

One-Stop Early Voting Starts Tomorrow - see you at the polls!

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Have questions? Not sure what you need to bring? Want to find the One-Stop Early Voting locations in your county? Visit the NC Election Center: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly

Finally, to receive One-Stop Early Voting news and updates, grab your cell phone and text message NCEARLY to OBAMA (62262)

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.
8. Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.
7. Be among the first to vote for a change from eight years of failed Bush-McCain policies.
6. Because I missed the voter registration deadline for election-day voting.
5. To impress my old Social Studies teacher.
4. Because I can’t stand the thought of four more years like the last eight.
3. Because I am FIRED UP and READY TO GO...to EARLY VOTE
2. Because One-Stop Early Voting allows you to fix registration problems or re-register on the spot.

Top 10 Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #3

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:21:22 EDT

Because I am Fired Up and Ready to Go…To Early Vote!

Here is a video of some fired up supporters at a recent rally...

Fired Up...
....for Change
....for Progress
....to Volunteer on Election Day
....to elect Barack Obama President

Fired Up because Barack’s Ready to Go!

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

One-Stop Early Vote locations open all across North Carolina this THURSDAY OCTOBER 16th. Find your early vote location at our Election Center: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly

Mark your Calendars. We’ll see you at the polls.

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.
8. Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.
7. Be among the first to vote for a change from eight years of failed Bush-McCain policies.
6. Because I missed the voter registration deadline for election-day voting.
5. To impress my old Social Studies teacher.
4. Because I can’t stand the thought of four more years like the last eight.
3. Because I am FIRED UP and READY TO GO...to EARLY VOTE

Top 10 Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #4

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:13:19 EDT

Because I can’t stand the thought of four more years like the last eight.

I can’t stand the thought of four more years like the last eight because I have a sick very sick child. We went to the Doctor on Friday and she gave me two prescriptions, one of which cost me $70 and guess what? He’s not getting any better. So now I am looking at another doctor’s visit, which I can’t afford but can’t afford not to. Not mention more prescriptions. Sen. Obama has the better health care plan and looking at the state of our economy we can’t afford to have 4 more years of the last eight.

V. Holland
Statesville, NC

I can't stand another four years like the last eight because I am a mother and a grandmother. My daughter and son-in-law live with us, along with their daughter. They can't afford to buy their own home, even though they both work full time. My daughter graduated from technical school but can't find a job in her field. My son is in the military and I constantly dread the day he will be sent to Iraq. His wife left him - along with their daughter - while he was deployed on a ship. She couldn't handle the stress. We need change NOW!

K. Swafford
Fairview, NC

I can’t stand the thought of four more years like the last eight because time is running out. Things are happening for the people with Barack Obama. New direction, giving people a fair chance -- it just makes sense. People really believe that when he’s talking he’s not just a politician, we believe him, it’s who he is —we don’t need another politician to lie to us—Barack tells the truth and he is going to get rid of the corruption. I’m disabled and know he will have a great program for disabled people make things fair.
Barack has the ideas, he just needs us to help him and we will—were going to take the country back and he’ll be a leader for all Americans. I want to vote early in case something happens to me --at least I’ll know I voted--people want to vote now, they cant wait to get out there, stand in line and vote.

A. Johnson
Bear Creek, NC

I can't stand the thought of 4 more years like the last eight because of the current US Heath policies. My mother was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer last year, due to the illness, she had to resign her job which meant her benefits ran out as well. She applied for Medicaid but was denied because she had a 401K which carried the balance of 12K. According to the government rules you cannot have assets in excess of 2K in order to be eligible for Medicaid. Fortunately, Cobra kicked in but this too came with a premium of 400 per month, which is unaffordable for her. Her disability is roughly 1200 per month, she has a mortgage of 700 per month. You do the math. We need change today and these issues are real! I believe in Senator Obama's plan for change.

J. Rheingold
Raleigh, NC

I can’t stand the thought of four more years like the last eight because I care so much about my community. I talk to the elderly and hear about their gas bills-- they don’t have a fixed income and they can’t afford it. I help people here with transportation. In this rural town some people don’t have cars and they need to get around--in exchange they give me something from their garden. I work as a substitute teacher at schools and these kids are apathetic because they know they won’t get the education that they deserve and I worry about that. When I see how humbly people have to live I think “we can do better than that as a nation”—and we will. I see trailer parks in my neighborhood and know that these people want jobs— we can’t have anymore of this.

V. Karama
Manson, NC

Enough is Enough. Share your story and write a letter to the editor about why you support Barack - you can even choose the topic that matters most to you and your family.

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Top 10 Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #5

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 19:41:13 EDT

To impress my old Social Studies teacher.

From Emily O.:

Somehow, even with the bad bangs and all of the hairspray and glitter, what my social studies teacher taught us about civic responsibility stuck with me. Whenever we discussed milestones in American political history, our teacher wove the importance of voting into every discussion. Amongst the stories of George Washington’s presidency, women gaining the right to vote, the Civil Rights movement, my teacher always stressed the importance of voting and being an active community member.

Years later, I am not only registered to vote (and voting early this Thursday), but I am also a full-time volunteer on the Obama campaign.

I take my responsibility to vote seriously. And I am proud to be involved in an election that my grandkids will learn about in their social studies classes.

This campaign would not be possible without our volunteers. Volunteer today: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCvolunteer

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Join Emily and other dedicated volunteers across the state.

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.
8. Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.
7. Be among the first to vote for a change from eight years of failed Bush-McCain policies.
6. Because I missed the voter registration deadline for election-day voting.
5. To impress my old Social Studies teacher.

Top 10 Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #6

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 15:47:41 EDT

Because I missed the voter registration deadline for election-day voting.

So, you didn’t get your voter registration form in yesterday. It happens. Lucky you – you can still register to vote and cast your ballot for Barack at a One-Stop Early voting location in your county from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. And your vote will count just like a vote on election day. But if you’re not yet registered, you have to vote during early voting.

To register to vote and vote early (all at once!), just bring one of these items that shows your name and address:
~ a North Carolina driver's license -or-
~ a utility, phone (home or cell) or cable TV bill -or-
~a bank or credit card statement -or-
~a Government document (passport, Government issued photo ID, birth certificate, hunting fishing, or gun license, property tax or other bill, vehicle registration, naturalization document, public housing or social security agency document, government check, invoice or letter) -or-
~a paycheck or W2 -or-
~a student ID, plus a school document with your name and address

(If you’re already registered, you can vote early, too! Visit the Election Center to find what you need to bring to vote early: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly)

Sleep easy knowing that you can still register and vote. You just need to register and vote between Oct 16th and Nov 1st.

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Visit the NC Election Center to find your early vote location: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.
8. Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.
7. Be among the first to vote for a change from eight years of failed Bush-McCain policies.
6. Because I missed the voter registration deadline for election-day voting.

Top 10 Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #7

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 17:23:07 EDT

Be among the first to vote for a change from eight years of failed Bush-McCain policies.

John McCain said, “I have agreed with President Bush far more than I have disagreed. And on the transcendent issues, the most important issues of our day, I've been totally in agreement and support of President Bush.” And just a few months ago, McCain bragged that he’d voted with President Bush 90% of the time.

The failed Bush-McCain economic policies have been disastrous here in North Carolina. Since 2001, North Carolina has lost 30% of its manufacturing jobs and the overall unemployment rate has jumped to 6.6%. At the same time, the cost of health care has doubled and the number of uninsured has increased 50% to 1.5 million North Carolinians.

North Carolina - we simply cannot afford four more years like the last eight. Vote early and then volunteer to help bring about the change we need.

Check out this video, “Same,”

Be among the first to vote against four more years of the same failed policies.

Sign up here to volunteer this weekend: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCvolunteer

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.
8. Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.
7. Be among the first to vote for a change from eight years of failed Bush-McCain policies.

Voter Registration Deadline TODAY

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 10:17:37 EDT

To vote on November 4th, today is your last day to register.

Look up your voter registration status HERE.

Or, you can register to vote at vote below - just make sure your form is postmarked or hand delivered to your County Board of Elections by 5 p.m. today.

For more information, visit our NC Election Center.

"The Gentleman Barack Obama'

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 09:37:29 EDT

We thought we would share this editorial from the Macon News with you.

Thursday, October 9, 2008
Colin Gooder, Editor
Over the weekend nearly 30,000 people in Western North Carolina attended the political rally for Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, filling Asheville High’s Memorial Stadium to capacity and then spilling over. And as we enter into the final month of the presidential campaign, Senator Obama did not fail to inspire the crowd with his graceful tongue, unique ideals (for a politician) and quick wit. Selma Sparks, an older woman from Franklin, was so inspired she wrote a story about the youth at the rally.
Obama’s dignified bearing and easy grace transcend any mere political campaign. He invites his supporters and skeptics alike to understand that this campaign is not about him, but actually a movement for change (for the better). The election is only the first step of many in the effort to improve America and to once again make it, as Abraham Lincoln said, a “government of the people, by the people, for the people, [that] shall not perish from the earth.”
On Saturday afternoon, as I was preparing to go to the Vance- Aycock fundraiser — I had heard that Obama was staying at the Grove Park Inn and he may be appearing there — a stranger asked me if I believed him. I quickly replied that I did, that I had been watching him closely for over a year, that no politician could be that consistent in his dignified behavior unless he was “the real deal.”
But being the introspective type, the question nagged at me all evening. I wanted to know for sure. First, I figured, if Obama was going to be at the Grove Park Inn at the same time as the state’s Democratic leadership was holding their annual banquet, a true gentleman would make an appearance for his supporters. Of course he did show, rallied the troops and then went back to work in the next room practicing for Tuesday night’s debate.
The workers at the Grove Park liked Obama as well. Several of them said he would stop and “talk to them like an ordinary guy.” The bathroom attendant said Obama seemed like he actually cared, that he even stopped in to congratulate two newlyweds during their reception.
When I strolled into the hallway later, I saw a Secret Service agent examining me because of the camera bag. I seized the opportunity to pick his brain. Now, Secret Service agents are trained to be silent sentinels of their mission, so it’s not easy getting one of them to talk at all. But I’ve found that if you can look past the four or five guns they each carry, they are all-American, clean-cut, nice guys (that can kill you in a myriad of ways). After some smalltalk, I asked the agent if he liked working for Obama. He said the campaign had a “one-voice policy” and he couldn’t comment. I explained that it wasn’t for a story (only a commentary), and I just wanted to know for myself. Finally he said, “Alright, I can tell you this: It’s been a good experience for me.”
That said it all. Of course Obama is a shrewd politician, but he is foremost a gentleman. When he saw Franklin’s own Chris Cappocia, age 10, wearing a big red cast on his arm at the rally, Obama asked the boy if he could sign his cast for him, rather than the other way around, and even provided the marker. That’s my kind of President.

Share your story and why you support Barack and Joe- write a letter to the editor and submit it to your local paper. Start writing now.

Top 10 Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #8

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 19:51:39 EDT

Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.

Don't wonder if your vote counted. Be sure. During One-Stop Early Voting, you can register and vote and fix any problems with your registration, all at once. Imagine the peace of mind knowing that you’ve already cast your vote to help put Barack in the White House.

You want to make sure your vote counts in this historic election.

Find your early vote location at our NC Election Center. Have some peace of mind that you’ve already made your voice heard before Election Day.

Even Barack and Joe want you to early vote...

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time at any Early Vote location in your county. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Remember: Vote early, and make sure your vote counts, with One-Stop Early Voting.

Look up your One-Stop Early Vote location now: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCVoteEarly

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.
8. Make sure your vote counts. Vote Early.

Joe Biden Sends Voter Registration Reminder

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:03:57 EDT

I just received this email from Joe Biden and I thought I would share it with you...

Merici --

I'll bet you know someone in North Carolina who isn't registered to vote.

If you want four more years of the Bush-McCain policies that devastated our economy, ignore this message.

But if you're ready for change, forward this email to everyone you know.

Friday, October 10th, is the North Carolina voter registration deadline -- so make sure you've postmarked or delivered your form by tomorrow.

Tell your friends, family, and neighbors to register to vote today at VoteForChange.com.

No one can afford to sit this one out.

Make your voice heard -- and make sure everyone you know can cast their vote for the change we need.

Thanks,

Joe

P.S. -- If you don't register to vote by October 10th, don't forget that One-Stop Early Voting begins on Thursday, October 16th. Make sure your voice, and the voices of your friends and family, are heard.

Remember - to vote on November 4th, you must be registered by 5 p.m. tomorrow. Register now at voteforchange.com

Top Ten Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #9

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 18:49:14 EDT

I have to vote early because I’m gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.

Barack is only going to win here in North Carolina if we make sure all of our supporters get to the polls. Face to face voter contact is the best way to remind your friends and neighbors to vote for Barack. Not only do we need your help on Election Day, but we also need your help everyday between now and then.

Volunteer and take a day off from work to help turn North Carolina blue. Give 1 day - or whatever you can - to help turn out voters.

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early from Oct 16th through Nov 1st. You can even register and vote all at the same time. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Remember: Vote EARLY and on Tuesday, November 4th, help those who didn’t.

http://nc.barackobama.com/giveadayvid

TOP TEN REASONS TO ONE-STOP EARLY VOTE:
10. Because voting late is not an option.
9. I have to vote early because I'm gonna be volunteering for Barack all day on Election Day.

Can you take a day off work to help save jobs?

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 16:41:37 EDT

The campaign released an ad that tells the story of Carolina Mills, a Maiden, NC based company that shut down each of its 17 plants. Over 2600 North Carolinians who once proudly produced the thread for American flags had their jobs - and their futures - shipped overseas. Barack will provide tax breaks for companies that keep and create jobs here at home; John McCain supports tax breaks for companies that ship jobs overseas.

The last eight years of Bush/McCain economic policies have led to job losses, falling median incomes, and a credit crisis resulting from the lack of sound regulation on Wall Street. North Carolina has lost 30% of its manufacturing jobs since 2001. We cannot afford 4 more years of the same failed trade policies.

Barack needs your help over the next 27 days - can you take a day off work to help save jobs? Sign up here.

Top Ten Reasons to One-Stop Early Vote: #10

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:53:31 EDT

Because voting late is not an option.

You can’t vote on November 5th- and this year, missing out on this crucial election is not an option.

Those of you who are concerned about global warming – those of you who are concerned about education – those of you who are concerned about making sure there is a sense of fairness in our economy – you need to vote and you need to vote early to make sure your vote is counted.

One-Stop Early Voting is the easiest way to make sure your vote is counted for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. You don’t have to worry about election day lines, flat tires or catching a cold.

Everyday until One-Stop Early Voting begins on Oct. 16th- we will feature a new reason to One Stop Early Vote. Forward this message onto your friends and family – help us spread the message that One-Stop Early Voting is one of the easiest ways to make sure your vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden is counted.

ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING: You can vote early. You can even register and vote all at the same time. It’s One-Stop Early Voting and it’s easy, even if you have never voted before.

Friday is the last day to register to vote before One-Stop Early Voting begins on Oct. 16th – you can check your voter registration status HERE or register to vote at voteforchange.com.

Debate Watch Party in Greenville - Tonight

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:29:13 EDT

Tonight, join the North Carolina Campaign for Change for a Debate Watch Party in Greenville. Meet campaign staff and fellow supporters, and watch Barack Obama debate John McCain about how to bring the change we need.

Barack in Asheville on Monday

Come and cheer on Barack tonight - we will see you tonight!

     Tie Breakers
     1920 Smythewyck Drive
     Greenville, NC 27858
     8:00 p.m.

RSVP: http://nc.barackobama.com/GreenvilleWatchParty

Tomorrow: Michelle Obama in Jacksonville

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:30:24 EDT

Michelle Obama will return to the Tar Heel state tomorrow to host a community event with military families. Mrs. Obama will address the unique challenges these families face while having a loved one deployed overseas and juggling everyday work and family responsibilities amidst an economic crisis. She will also share the Obama-Biden plan to support our troops and veterans, and provide economic security for North Carolina families.

Mrs. Obama began her series of conversations with military families in North Carolina in May, when she hosted her first roundtable discussion with military wives from Fort Bragg. Since then, Mrs. Obama has met with military families in Kentucky, Virginia, New Mexico and Pennsylvania. Last month, Mrs. Obama hosted an economic roundtable with working women in Charlotte, and a Women for Obama rally in Greensboro.

Michelle in Greensboro

Please join us tomorrow in Jacksonville:

Community Event with Miltary Families
and Michelle Obama

Jacksonville Commons Recreation Center
100 Recreation Lane
Jacksonville, NC

Tuesday, October 7th
Doors Open: 12:00 p.m.
Program Begins: 1:30 p.m.

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

RSVP here: http://nc.barackobama.com/MOjacksonville

LIVE: Barack in Asheville

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 14:08:46 EDT

LIVE: Barack in Asheville

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 12:57:39 EDT

This afternoon Barack will be in Asheville for a Change We Need rally. The rally will begin at 2 p.m. Watch it live here...

This week Barack laid out his health care plan and why it's the right plan for North Carolina. Barack's plan cuts costs and reigns in insurance companies - whereas his opponent's plan taxes health care for the first time ever.

Write a letter to the editor about why you support Barack's health care plan - click HERE and our website will guide you through the process.

UPDATE: This event has ended. Did you attend? We would love to see your pictures and hear about your experience. Share your story here: http://nc.barackobama.com/ncshare

Voter Registration Deadline: Friday, Oct 10th

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 11:33:29 EDT

Friday, October 10th is the last day to register to vote before One-Stop Early Voting begins on October 16th. You can register online right now at voteforchange.com - or, if you are not sure whether or not you are registered, you can also check at voteforchange.com.

Do you have a facebook profile? You should check out the Obama application - the application not only allows you to register to vote, but it also sends voter registration reminders to the friends that you select.

You can find the facebook Obama application here.

There's not much time to make sure that on November 4th we elect Barack Obama president. But if each of us helps grow our movement today, we can make sure that we get the change we need. Join North Carolina for Obama on facebook.

Faith and Politics: Conversations with Don Miller

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 11:15:45 EDT

This Sunday, October 5th, evangelical Christian and New York Times best-selling author Don Miller will host conversations on faith, values, and politics across North Carolina.

Miller, who wrote Blue Like Jazz and delivered the benediction at the Democratic National Convention in August, will discuss the role of faith in this election year and why Senator Barack Obama is the only candidate in this race who will bring about the change we need.

Please join the North Carolina Campaign for Change this Sunday in Matthews, Chapel Hill, or Buies Creek, for a thoughtful discussion on faith, values, and politics.

These events are free and open to the public. Spread the word!

Sunday, October 5th:

Country Inn & Suites
Hospitality Room
2001 Mount Harmony Church Road
Matthews, NC 28104
11:00 a.m.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hamilton Hall, Room 100
102 Emerson Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
2:00 p.m.

Campbell University
Lynch Auditorium
Lundy-Fetterman School of Business
143 Main Street
Buies Creek, NC 27506
4:15 p.m.

You can RSVP here.

Vice Presidential Debate

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:07:47 EDT

Tonight Joe Biden will participate in the only Vice Presidential debate - the debate will kick off at 9 p.m. EST.

Senator Joe Biden in Charlotte

Joe Biden is a strong supporter of women's rights. He authored and passed the landmark Violence Against Women Act, the strongest legislation to date that criminalizes domestic violence and holds batterers accountable.

Support Joe and women of North Carolina and JOIN Women for Obama today.

How Barack will Steer Us Out of the Current Financial Crisis

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:15:14 EDT

Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released a new two minute TV ad, Same Path, which includes Senator Obama telling America he knows we can steer ourselves out of this crisis, but not by driving down the very same path and how that's what this election's all about.

In the ad, Obama details how his plan to jump-start our economy, create millions of jobs, and bring back our Main Streets all across America differs with John McCain's plan to continue the same failed policies. Obama specifically lays out how his tax plan which offers three times as much tax relief to the middle class and cuts taxes for small and startup businesses differs from McCain's which will continue giving hundreds of billions in new tax breaks to big corporations and oil companies and extends the Bush tax cuts for the wealthiest.
Watch the ad here...

Enough is enough. Write a letter to the editor to your local newspapers - share with your community why you support Barack and why you think the Obama-Biden ticket is the best ticket for North Carolina.

Barack and Joe in Greensboro on Saturday

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:31:21 EDT

Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden will return to North Carolina Saturday to hold a rally on the Change We Need in Greensboro. This is Obama’s first time returning to the Triad since the primary. He was in Charlotte Sunday afternoon, and Senator Biden was in Charlotte for a rally the Sunday before last. Michelle Obama held a Women for Obama Rally in Greensboro with Dr. Maya Angelou and Sen. Kay Hagan last Thursday.

Saturday’s event is free and open to the public and tickets are not required, but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. Please see details below.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

Greensboro, NC

CHANGE WE NEED RALLY WITH BARACK OBAMA AND JOE BIDEN

Washington Street in front of the J. Douglas Galyon Depot

Greensboro, NC

Gates Open: 10:00 AM
Program Begins: 12:15 PM

This event is free and open to the public. Rain or shine. Tickets are NOT required. However, an RSVP is strongly encouraged. RSVP here: http://nc.barackobama.com/GreensboroChange

The Charlotte Rally in Pictures

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 17:37:21 EDT

and there's more...

Students Across North Carolina Come to Charlotte for Barack's Rally

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 09:23:00 EDT

Yesterday Barack drew thousands of people into the streets of Charlotte for a Change We Need Rally. The pre-program included a blessing by Mayor Richard Boyce from Belmont and the pledge of allegiance was led by Retired Col. Randy Stagner, who is also active with North Carolina Veterans for Obama. Taylor, one of Charlotte’s field organizers, asked the audience to volunteer – with only 45 days left, the campaign needs as much help as it can get here in North Carolina and he walked off stage by saying, “Can’t wait to see you at the office.”

As people listened and waited for Barack, I had a chance to talk with some students who came all the way from UNCW with their Students for Change group to show their support. When asked what mattered to them most, the issues ranged from funding higher education to supporting early education. Khadija is an education major and supports Barack because he supports early education; Grace supports Barack because his administration will provide additional support for higher education – specifically his tax cut that will make college more affordable.

It was a big weekend for UNC-Chapel Hill students. Saturday morning, hundreds of students lined up for a taping of ABC’s Good Morning America and then Sunday morning they drove to Charlotte to see Barack. Here is what Rachel had to say:

“We want change and reform. I support Barack because I want a President who will actually help the people who need help. Barack brings change to this generation – and this election effects everybody – including my kids and their kids.”

Help bring change to your campus - learn more in our student resource center and sign up to join students for Barack.

UPDATED (with video): Dr. Maya Angelou and Michelle Obama in Greensboro

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 16:33:59 EDT

Dr. Maya Angelou and Michelle Obama took the same stage Thursday in Greensboro. Watch Dr. Angelou's introduction...

Michelle was in town on the second leg of her women and the economy tour in North Carolina. Dr. Angelou introduced Mrs. Obama and here is a part of her introduction (full video to follow later):

Something wonderful is happening.

As you know I was a serious supporter- sincere supporter -of Senator Clinton. I meant for her to go all the way. And I went all the way with her. I knew that she is very intelligent...She is very dedicated and a hard worker.

I said when she left, she left 18 million scratches on the glass ceiling.

And I thought - you know what we need, really, is someone to break that ceiling down.

Senator Barack Obama is that person.

His campaign has sparked something in all of us - all of us. All americans. I believe in the sincere, most deep heart of all americans - each american - each of us wants to belong to a great country...

Each of us belongs to a great country--we just need to make it greater. That's all.

Michelle began - and admitted that while she normally does not get nervous in front of crowds - she was nervous following Dr. Angelou and was honored to have her support. The crowd erupted into applause.

Michelle continued by discussing why Barack's plan is right for North Carolina - from health care, to tax cuts for middle class families and about how his administration will help working women and their families. She had a special message to the women in the audience and reiterated how important this election is to them because Barack will fight for equal pay and access to healthcare.

She closed by encouraging the audience to vote - to vote early - to register to vote - and to help volunteer.

Take Michelle's call to action - this weekend is Women's Weekend of Action. Women, men, and families across North Carolina are going to be canvassing their neighborhoods for change. Signup here.

LIVE: Barack in Charlotte

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 09:31:29 EDT

Barack is in Charlotte today for a CHANGE WE NEED rally. Watch it here - the event starts at 1 p.m.

While you are watching the live stream, why not take a few minutes to write letters to your local newspapers about why the Obama-Biden ticket is not only the right choice for America, but also the right Choice for North Carolina.

Click HERE to write a letter to the editor--it's easy and our website walks you through the process.

UPDATE: The rally has ended, but the excitement has not. Did you attend the rally? We want to see your pictures and hear you stories - share your story here.

Generation Obama Post Rally Party

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 14:41:13 EDT

As you may already know, Barack will return to the Tarheel state to hold a Change We Need Rally in downtown Charlotte TOMORROW.

This is a perfect excuse for all of us to get together for a fun afternoon of socializing and networking. Who can refuse a cold drink on a warm day? Join other young professionals for a POST RALLY AFTER PARTY at Arpa Tapas immediately following the rally!

Bring friends, colleagues, and of course, undecided voters.

No RSVP is required for the party, it is only suggested. There will be a cash bar and the patio will be open.

We really look forward to seeing all of you at the party!

Arpa Tapas Wine Bar-Grill
129-100 West Trade
Charlotte, NC 28202
704.372.7792
Immediately following the rally.

You can RSVP and find more details HERE.

Can't make it, but want to learn more about Generation Obama? Signup to receive the latest Generation Obama news and updates.

Governor Kathleen Sebelius Visits North Carolina

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 10:11:49 EDT

As a part of Women’s Weekend of Action, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius visited North Carolina in support of Barack and to discuss why his policies are good for North Carolinians. We had a chance to attend the Hickory event on Lenoir’s campus where she hammered home Barack’s economic policies and message of change.

Gov. Sebelius primarily discussed women and how Senator Obama’s plans for the economy will directly address the problems women in North Carolina. In North Carolina alone, women make 82 cents for every dollar a man makes – which amounts to almost $9000 less a year. Barack has been a strong advocate of equal rights for women regarding issues of equal pay, domestic violence, and access to education. If elected president he would make correcting these inequities a priority of his administration. Gov. Sebelius also answered questions from the audience and education was a popular topic…

Barack will stand behind students who want access to higher education…we also need broader access to early education and a system that makes sure from the earliest years that we are preparing them for success.

We had an opportunity to meet with Betsy, Jane, Sylvia and Gordon after Gov. Sebelius’ talk. Betsy and Gordon are volunteers in Hickory – and all four are Obama supporters. Sylvia appreciated hearing Gov. Sebelius and how she framed the issues. Betsy has been a supporter of Barack since reading The Audacity of Hope…and hope is why Gordon supports Barack. He said:

I am not voting for Barack because he is a democrat; I am voting for Barack because he gives us vision and hope for the future…he brings us together – and it’s not just rhetoric. He means it.

Get involved in a Women’s Weekend of Action activity in your neighborhood. Signup HERE.

Fired Up in Charlotte - Preparing for Tomorrow's Rally

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 08:57:13 EDT

Charlotte is fired up for Barack's visit - volunteers at the Charlotte office on Elizabeth street have been making posters for the rally.

Barack's Change We Need rally begins tomorrow at 1 p.m. and doors open at 11 a.m. RSVP here and see you tomorrow!

LIVE: Joe Biden in Charlotte

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 16:29:59 EDT

Joe Biden will be in Charlotte for a community gathering today. Watch his speech here - livestreaming will begin at 6:30 p.m. EST.

Did you attend the event? We would love to see your pictures and hear your stories. Share your experience and pictures HERE.

UPDATED: The event has ended - check back for stories and pictures.

Carolina Cookouts for Change - Tomorrow

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:00:37 EDT

Tomorrow, people all across North Carolina are coming together in their communities for Cookouts for Change! Each cookout will be a low-key gathering -- a chance to meet up with friends, eat some good food, and help introduce your neighbors to Barack's message of change.

This is a great opportunity to learn more about Barack -- who he is and where he stands on the issues that matter most to North Carolinians. Feel free to bring along a friend who's undecided and help grow this movement for change.

Check out this video and find a Cookout near you!

http://nc.barackobama.com/CarolinaCookouts

Statement of Senator Barack Obama on the Anniversary of the September 11th Attacks

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 08:59:03 EDT

In remembrance of the seventh anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Senator Obama released the following statement:

Today, we honor the memory of the lives that were lost on September 11, 2001, and grieve with the families and friends who lost someone they loved in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. We will never forget those who died. We will always remember the extraordinary efforts of our firefighters, police and emergency responders, and those who sacrificed their own lives on Flight 93 to protect their fellow Americans. And we give thanks for the Americans defending us every day in our communities at home, and in our military abroad.

On 9/11, Americans across our great country came together to stand with the families of the victims, to donate blood, to give to charity, and to say a prayer for our country. Let us renew that spirit of service and that sense of common purpose. Let us remember that the terrorists responsible for 9/11 are still at large, and must be brought to justice. Let us resolve to defeat terrorist networks, defend the American homeland, stand up for the enduring American values that we cherish, and seek a new birth of freedom at home and around the world.

Saturday: Carolina Cookouts for Change

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 22:07:29 EDT

Here is an email I just received from our NC Campaign for Change Field Director, Chris Lewis:

Dear Merici-
Now that Barack Obama and Joe Biden have officially accepted the Democratic nominations for President and Vice President, it's going to be a sprint to Election Day.

As of today, there are less than eight weeks left until November 4th.

That's why this Saturday, September 13th, people all across North Carolina are coming together in their communities for Cookouts for Change.

Each cookout will be a low-key gathering -- a chance to meet up with friends, eat some good food, and help introduce your neighbors to Barack's message of change.

If you still aren't sure who you plan to vote for in November, this is a great opportunity to learn more about Barack -- who he is and where he stands on the issues that matter most to North Carolinians.

If you're already a supporter, bring along a friend who's undecided and help grow this movement for change.

Find a Cookout for Change near you and make a difference in your community.

North Carolina is going to be a crucial battleground in the general election, and we can win here. But it's going to take all of us working together.

At each Cookout for Change, you'll hear from local Campaign for Change staff or local supporters about why they are working for Barack.

With less than two months until Election Day, a lot of people still don't know about Barack. This is an opportunity to introduce people to Barack's message of change and help grow this movement.

Attend a Carolina Cookout for Change to learn more about Barack and what you can do to help the Campaign for Change here in North Carolina:

http://nc.barackobama.com/CarolinaCookouts

We can't do this without you.

Thanks,

Chris

Chris Lewis
North Carolina Field Director
Campaign for Change

P.S. -- Take your commitment to the next level by joining the North Carolina Action Team. This group of dedicated supporters is the best way to help Barack and Joe win in North Carolina by staying up-to-date on new volunteer opportunities and events, as well as the latest smears that we'll have to work together to fight.

Sign up to join the Action Team today:

http://nc.barackobama.com/NCActionTeam

Barack's Acceptance Speech--One Week Later

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:47:29 EDT

It was only one week ago when Barack gave his acceptance speech in Denver. I thought I would share with you an email he sent out today.

Merici --

Why would the Republicans spend a whole night of their convention attacking ordinary people?

With the nation watching, the Republicans mocked, dismissed, and actually laughed out loud at Americans who engage in community service and organizing.

Our convention was different. We gave the stage to everyday Americans who hunger for change and stepped up to make phone calls, knock on doors, and raise money in small amounts in their communities.

...What you didn't hear from the Republicans at their convention is a single new idea about how to make the healthcare system work, get our economy moving for the middle class, or improve education.

Just attacks -- on me, and on you.

But what the McCain attack squad doesn't understand is that people like you -- who devote part of their busy lives to organizing and building their communities -- have the power to change this country.

With your help, that's exactly what we're going to do.

Thank you,

Barack

Let's keep it positive tonight--here is Barack's speech from last Thursday...

North Carolina Republicans for Barack

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 14:57:53 EDT

North Carolina - we are in it to win it! The North Carolina Campaign for Change has reached out to Republicans across the state -- not only were they excited to help out --but also eager to publicly endorse the Obama-Biden ticket. This list of public supporters is further evidence that Senator Obama’s message appeals to Americans from all walks of life and transcends conventional partisan politics. Here is our list of NC Republicans who endorse Barack Obama.

In response to the false attacks we have seen during the RNC, we thought we would show you--North Carolinians--how many republicans support Barack here. And these are just a few names we gathered over the weekend!

Each of you can reach out to the Republicans you know and ask them to consider supporting Senator Obama. Forward them a link to this blog post. Or, send them our North Carolina Republicans for Obama signup form: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCGOPforObama

“For the first time in a long time, we have the chance to build a new majority of not just Democrats, but Independents and Republicans who've lost faith in their Washington leaders but want to believe again – who desperately want something new.”
– Barack Obama

Women Uniting for Change in North Carolina

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:19:29 EDT

We thought we would share Leigh’s story with you. Leigh is a former Hillary Clinton supporter from Charlotte who attended a Unite to Win watch party last Tuesday—if you will recall, last Tuesday was Senator Clinton’s speech during the Democratic National Convention. Leigh writes about uniting for change—but explains that it was not easy at first. Here is her story:

When I arrived at the party, I was greeted warmly by the host Bobby Damsky, a Clinton supporter who led me to meet some of the others who were Obama supporters, they thanked me for coming. There was a table laden with food and Obama pins, Obama bumper stickers, a sign-up sheet. I signed in my name, but I did not take an Obama pin or sticker. I was wearing an orange pin given to me that said "Hillary supports Obama so do I!!" as that was as far as I had come for the moment. As more folks arrived I met fellow Hillary supporters. I met the organizer Kevin Xu from the Obama campaign who I had talked on the phone with previously. The turnout was approx half Hillary supporters and half Obama ones, about 15 folks with an incredible cultural mix of backgrounds and ages.

This was the first time I had ever been to an event organized by the Obama campaign and it did feel different, while I presented myself as cool and collected, I had butterflies in my stomach and was feeling both a whirl of emotions as well as grounded logical thoughts that I was here for the sole purpose of unity. The Obama supporters were very nice and you know when it came down to it, they were really no different than me in our shared Democratic ideals and beliefs, our party's policies and goals.

We all talked with one another, searching for common ground, trying to bond, discussing our experiences and finding that despite the stories out there of discord and division between Clinton and Obama supporters being presented in the media and being exploited by the Republican party, that unity is not beyond our reach, but more like we have the power to make it happen and should make it happen. Before Hillary's speech we went around the room introducing ourselves and our opinions about the convention and the election and I must say the Obama supporters took great effort to understand us Hillary folks and to appreciate our sentiments and concerns.

As Hillary began her speech the room fell quiet. There I sat on the couch sandwiched between two Obama supporters, while engaging wide-eyed at the TV screen watching Hillary magnificently give the speech of her lifetime, the woman I wanted to be President of the United States, that I had personally invested so much time to her campaign, that I felt was the one. The respect there however came from everyone, and by the time she finished, we were all Democrats gathered together in one place, unified and whole ready to elect Barack Obama our next President. It was felt that everything we are fighting for as Democrats was for a greater good, it was not to satisfy our favorite candidate or each of us on our own but to merge ourselves into a complete picture of unification. It happened in that room, it happened for us and it can happen for others going thru the process. We had become a delegation of unifiers more willing to take on the needs of helping this country to get back on its feet again.

A Hillary supporter came up to me to say goodbye and as she left she squeezed my hand and said she was so glad I was there, that she was coming round and she thanked me.

When it was time to go, I walked past the table with the Obama pins and stickers, and alas it was empty, I actually felt a bit disappointed, but the campaign organizer turned around and said here you go Leigh, I think these are yours, I saved the last ones for you.

I was support staff for the Hillary Clinton HQ in Charlotte. I was a community volunteer working with the Political Director for the region, assisting the campaign staff with tasks and focusing on organizing advance logistics, local strategy, forums, meet and greets and I hosted a party at my home entitled the "Hillary I know House Party" with close friends of Hillary's who were the speakers. I housed for 5 weeks the Field Organizer of the office in my home and I worked tirelessly for Hillary's campaign during the Primary season and would especially like to point out the wonderful team effort that I was privileged to be part.

Tonight we kick off Women’s Wednesdays--Women's Wednesdays is a volunteer evening (from 5-9 p.m.) for women to come to their local field office and reach out to undecided women across the state. FIND an office in your area and help women across the state spread Barack’s message of change.

Hurricane Gustav: How You Can Help in North Carolina

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 13:53:03 EDT

Barack Obama’s North Carolina Campaign for Change announced today that it will begin accepting non-perishables and other materials at its 16 statewide offices on Tuesday and Wednesday in an effort to assist families affected by Hurricane Gustav.

“We wanted to give North Carolinians another way to provide support to families that may be in need in the aftermath of Gustav,” stated Marc Farinella, Obama’s North Carolina State Director. “Our grassroots organization is ready and willing to pitch in and use its resources to help in any way we can.”

Local residents are encouraged to bring non-perishables such as canned food, bottled water, first-aid supplies and other materials that may help people in the wake of the storm to their local Campaign for Change office. The supplies will be distributed to aid foundations that can ensure they are delivered to families in need.

A full list of offices accepting materials can be found here. Or if you can't make it to an office, you can also help those in need by visiting the Red Cross today.

Today in Greensboro...

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 10:09:13 EDT

Today I will be canvassing in Greensboro as a part of the Weekend of Action events happening state-and nation-wide. I will update with photos later.

Where will you be today and tomorrow? Share your story--and send us pictures. We look forward to hearing about your Weekend of Action!

Find your local Weekend of Action event here.

Weekend of Action--Celebrate Labor Day Weekend with Us

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 20:17:33 EDT

It’s time to get to work, North Carolina!

To cap off an incredible week, launch the general election and celebrate Labor Day—we need to come together to register new voters across North Carolina this weekend. The North Carolina Campaign for Change and Barack’s supporters are hitting the streets (road, path, beach) this weekend to bring new people into the process. Weekend of Action events will be taking place all over the state tomorrow and Sunday—with almost 100 events, there is bound to be one near you.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and meet register new voters this holiday weekend. Find a Weekend of Action event near you. Or, if you are on vacation and would still like to do something to help Barack, write a letter to the editor and tell others why you are supporting Barack.

Acceptance Speech Watch Parties Recap

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 18:07:23 EDT

Barack’s acceptance speech captivated us all last night. People came together in living rooms across the state to watch a piece of history—and to watch North Carolina’s very own Pam Cash-Roper introduce Barack. The former republican warmed up the crowd with her unforgettable battle cry, “I literally cannot AFFORD 4 more years of this.” Jessica Benton from Pittsboro shared her picture of the crowd watching Pam.

Randolph County is fired up and ready to go—even in a county that is traditionally republican, people came out for Barack. Clare writes:

Last night, people gathered in our Democratic Party Headquarters in Asheboro. This is a county that went for George W 74-25%. The hosts were our party chair, Mac Whatley, and our First Vice-Chair and State House candidate, Bev O'Brien. It was a great representation of Randolph County- with party guests ranging in age from 10 year-old Ivy to 87 year-old Jesse. JD brought us his homemade persimmon pudding, a local delicacy. We cheered for Pamela, who did NC proud, and a few tears were shed when Barack accepted the nomination. We know that it is not the time for small plans, and we want to answer Barack's call.

I attended a watch party in Raleigh where the crowd’s excitement was tangible as we waited for Barack to begin. The captivated silence was interrupted by cheers and applause—crowd favorites included Barack’s tax cuts for working families and when he told us about his background. At the end of the night, everyone left excited and ready to volunteer this weekend.

Let's kick off the general election this weekend--attend a weekend of action event near you.

Watch Parties in Pictures

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:47:29 EDT

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You Made It Happen

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:09:07 EDT

From Barack...

This night could not have happened 40 years ago -- or even 4 years ago.

And it could not have happened without you.

You believed, against the odds, that change was possible. I felt your passion here tonight, and I know it was shared by millions of Americans who are building this movement all across the country.

Tonight is your night. But tonight is just the beginning.

The general election is going to be faster and tougher than anything we've faced so far. And our opponents will do everything they can to tear us down.

I need your support more than ever.

Make another donation of $25 or more right now.

Our party is united. Our purpose is clear. And our goal is in sight.

Thank you for everything you've done,

Barack

Tonight: Barack's Acceptance Speech

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:31:01 EDT

Tonight Barack will accept the Democratic party’s nomination for President.

Join us and be a part of this historic evening. The North Carolina Campaign for Change, with the help of supporters, is hosting watch parties across the state.

Be a part of history tonight. Find a watch party near you.

LIVE: Barack and Joe in Springfield

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:37:41 EDT

At 3 p.m. EST, Barack Obama and Joe Biden will make their first appearance together as running mates. Watch it happen live from Springfield...

While you are watching the live stream, why not take a few minutes to write letters to your local newspapers about why the Obama-Biden ticket is not only the right choice for America, but also the right Choice for North Carolina.

Click HERE to write a letter to the editor--it's easy and our website walks you through the process.

North Carolina--Let's Welcome Joe Biden

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 11:47:53 EDT

Barack has chosen Joe Biden to be his Vice President. Biden is an expert on foreign policy, whose heart and values are firmly rooted in the middle class. He is uniquely suited to serve as Barack Obama's partner in the urgent mission to bring about the change America needs and put our country back on track.

Biden and Obama will appear for the first time as running mates this afternoon in Springfield, Illinois, the same place this campaign began more than 19 months ago.

North Carolina, lets all welcome Joe Biden and let him know that we're glad he's part of our team. Share your personal welcome note and we'll make sure he gets it: http://nc.barackobama.com/NCWelcomeJoe_myspace

Please join us at nc.barackobama.com at 3 p.m. for a live streaming of their first public appearance as running mates.

"Earth to McCain--We Have Real Problems Here"

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:43:57 EDT

It’s not a problem many people have (we hope)—but last night, when John McCain was asked how many houses he owns, he responded, “I think — I'll have my staff get to you…It's condominiums where — I'll have them get to you."

At a press conference this afternoon, Congressman G.K. Butterfield and State Rep. Dan Blue highlighted reasons why John McCain is out of touch with North Carolinians. Rep Blue:

Earth to John McCain--we have real problems here in North Carolina...Here people can tell you about the house they want to continue to own.

Congressman Butterfield pointed out that McCain offers nothing new to North Carolina and that people here are hurting:

North Carolinians need to pay attention. Senator McCain could not even answer that very simple question—he had to delegate the answer to his staff…The fundamentals of the North Carolina economy are not strong.

John McCain is out of touch with us.

Share your feelings about McCain's houses and why Barack will offer the best solutions for America by writing a letter to the editor to a local North Carolina paper.

Raleigh Town Hall in Pictures

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 22:37:01 EDT

Franklin County Change Crews Attend Town Hall

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:11:17 EDT

Last night Barack spoke in front of a crowd of 2500 in Raleigh to discuss his plan to put the economy back on track—and how his plan will help North Carolina families. The Town Hall setting allowed people to ask specific policy questions and gave Barack a chance to hear first hand what issues are important to North Carolinians.

Meet Ann, Helen and Mary. All three are Change Crew Leaders in Franklin County and all three were eager to hear Barack discuss the economy.

Ann has always voted—but this is the first time she has actively volunteered for a campaign. Like many of us, she started out slowly…making a couple of phone calls to potential voters…and then she started canvassing and making donations and now she leads one of our Change Crew volunteer teams. Now you can find her registering voters with her Change Crew. We talked a bit about the issues that matter most to her:

I agree with Barack on the economy. It’s going to take all of us—it’s going to take sacrifice. We cannot get out of our current situation without sacrifice. Barack doesn’t pander to us—he tells us that it will take time.

…I also agree with Barack on education. I am a teacher and he supports paying teachers more and better resources.

Did you attend last night's Town Hall? We want to hear your story.

Join Ann, Helen, Mary and hundreds of other Change Crew members across North Caorlina. Get involved locally--join your local Change Crew.

Share Your Story: Raleigh Town Hall

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 20:50:44 EDT

Did you attend the Raleigh Town Hall?

We want to see your pictures and hear your stories.

Visit nc.barackobama.com/ncshare to upload pictures and tell us about your experience.

Extended Post: NYT

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:13:18 EDT

By KATHARINE Q. SEELYE

Published: August 16, 2008

RALEIGH, N.C. — Under a scorching sun, hundreds of people lined up recently in a parking lot here to pick up free back-to-school supplies being distributed by a local radio station. Bobbing among the shade umbrellas were a handful of workers for Senator Barack Obama, carrying clipboards and voter registration forms.
On Monday night, others fanned out at a movie screening for surfers in Wrightsville Beach. They descended on a street festival in Asheville. When oil companies posted record profits, Obama supporters showed up at gas stations here with registration forms.
Despite the relentless heat, and midsummer lull, the Obama campaign is mobilizing in North Carolina. The state is one of half a dozen once-solid Republican bastions, including Georgia, Indiana and Virginia, where Democrats now sniff opportunity to expand the electoral map.
They hope that North Carolina’s growth, especially among high-tech workers in Research Triangle Park, will help change voting patterns that are decades old. But the Obama strategy relies on a surge among black voters and young people, two groups that have not turned out in great numbers in recent elections.
To that end, the organization of Mr. Obama, the presumptive Democratic nominee, has been conducting an intense registration drive, appearing wherever people gather, as well as singling out potential voters in neighborhoods and online, and reaching out to undecided voters. It has also reactivated the extensive volunteer network it built before crushing Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton here in the May primary, and it is already running television commercials.
The campaign of the presumed Republican nominee, Senator John McCain, by contrast, has been barely visible. But his camp says it is getting in gear, and it has history on its side.
North Carolina has not voted for a Democrat for president since Jimmy Carter in 1976. Even with John Edwards, then one of the state’s senators, on the ticket in 2004, the Democrats lost here in a landslide. But they say the state is ripe this year for picking.
“The dynamics here are different than they ever have been,” said Mr. Obama’s state director, Marc Farinella, pointing to the influx of about 600,000 people since 2004.
Mr. Farinella said the Obama campaign would take advantage of this through an aggressive ground game and would speak to both affluent workers and those upended by trade policies that have cost the state tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs. The campaign will also try to exploit Mr. McCain’s opposition to a $300 billion farm bill approved by Congress.
“The race here will wind up being very tight,” Mr. Farinella said. “But I believe we’ll wind up ahead — we’ve got the volunteers, the excitement, his call for economic change, the trade issue. A lot of these things make North Carolina fertile territory for us.”
Mr. McCain’s political director and deputy campaign manager, Mike DuHaime, said the state was still fundamentally conservative.
“I don’t disavow that on paper this could be closer than last time, and Obama is spending money,” he said. “My question is, can you move this 13, 14 points from where you were when you had a North Carolinian on the ticket?” a reference to the vote spread in 2004 when Mr. Edwards and Senator John Kerry of Massachusetts lost to President Bush, 56 percent to 43.6 percent.
The average of the latest polls here, as of Wednesday, showed Mr. McCain with a lead of 4.3 percentage points over Mr. Obama, a difference that is barely significant statistically. One unknown with a black candidate on the ballot here is whether voters are telling pollsters the truth about how they intend to vote.
Another is whether Mr. Edwards’s recently admitted affair will create a backlash against Democrats.
Mr. Obama has spent more than $1.9 million on television commercials here since mid-June. He has opened 16 offices in the state since early July.
His blueprint calls for deploying 625 teams, of four to six volunteers each, to blanket the state’s 2,762 electoral precincts. So far, more than half the teams are in place, each with captains who are committed to contributing at least 10 hours a week. Almost 6,000 volunteers are actively engaged to some degree.
Obama headquarters in Chicago would not confirm the number of paid staff members it had in the various states, but the number in North Carolina is believed to be close to the estimated 150 it has deployed in another battleground state, Missouri, where Mr. McCain is two points ahead.
By contrast, the McCain campaign, which has less money, is relying heavily for resources on the state party and the Republican National Committee. With their help, the McCain campaign opened its office here in the capital on Monday, and six others in the last two weeks. It has a dozen paid staff members and has spent nothing on local television.
Democratic registration in the state is soaring, with 45,000 new registrants since May, and 7,000 new Republicans. About 44,000 have registered as unaffiliated.
Gary Bartlett, executive director of the State Board of Elections, said he expected more than six million people to be registered by the fall and that 4 million to 4.2 million would vote, up from 3.5 million who voted in 2004.
Analysts say the key here for Mr. Obama will be raising the percentage of blacks who vote and winning over more whites than Democrats have previously.
“Definitely, there is the real potential for black voters to become a more substantial part of the electorate this year,” said Tom Jensen, a Democratic pollster. “And that’s what it will take.”
In 2000, blacks made up 17.3 percent of the vote, and in 2004 they made up 18.6 percent, according to the state elections board. To win this year, by Mr. Jensen’s calculations, Mr. Obama needs blacks to make up 23 percent of the electorate while also winning at least 35 percent of the white vote. Others say he may need more.
So far, the rate of black registration (up 9.8 percent over 2004) is outpacing white registration (up 4.6 percent), but at the current rate blacks would make up only 20 percent of the electorate.
Bob Barr of Georgia, who is running for president as a Libertarian, may be a factor here in draining white votes from Mr. McCain. That could be a boon to Mr. Obama and might mean he could win with less than 50 percent of the total.
Raising the percentage of white voters could be a challenge for him, as it was in the primaries. In 2004, Mr. Kerry won about 32 percent of the state’s white vote, Mr. Jensen said.
Some of Mr. Obama’s positions, like his view that affirmative action should be applied by class, not race, and that the death penalty is acceptable in some cases, may appeal to these voters.
Other positions, like his support for some regulation of guns, could prove more problematic. Gov. Michael F. Easley, a Democrat who had supported Mrs. Clinton and now backs Mr. Obama, was asked how the “Hank Hills” of the world might vote, a reference to the animated television character who embodies small-town conservative values. “The jury is still out on Obama,” he said. “They’re watching.”
But Mr. Easley said Mr. Obama could win by focusing on economic issues. “If people see Barack Obama watching out for them on the economy,” the governor said, “they’ll vote for him.”
While Democrats often win state and local elections, they have a harder time at the national level. Usually they are perceived as more liberal than most North Carolinians, said Ferrel Guillory, an expert on Southern politics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, particularly on the bedrock issues of “guns, God and gays.”
“Democrats who get elected in North Carolina are not Northeastern liberal Democrats,” he said. In states like North Carolina, the McCain campaign is likely to make the cultural divide the fault line in November.
“Democrats who are successful in North Carolina and Virginia and other conservative states tend to be centrists and moderates, especially on the Second Amendment,” Mr. DuHaime of the McCain camp said. “No one would describe Obama as a centrist.”
But the Obama organization is steadily gaining recruits and putting them to work.
Jennifer Lasater, 38, a project manager at a software company here, donated $25 online to the campaign recently and then joined a registration drive through a breast-cancer awareness event. Now she is canvassing and calling voters and at night entering voter information into the campaign’s extensive voter database.
“The thought that North Carolina could vote for a Democrat made me think that if there’s something I could do to make that happen, that would be valuable,” Ms. Lasater said. “I figure, if my mother-in-law, who is fairly conservative, told me out of the blue that she was planning to vote for Obama, he has a chance in this state.”

NYT Sunday: "Obama Backers Mobilize in Bid to Wrest State From Republican Grip"

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 21:23:17 EDT

By KATHARINE Q. SEELYE

Published: August 16, 2008

RALEIGH, N.C. — Under a scorching sun, hundreds of people lined up recently in a parking lot here to pick up free back-to-school supplies being distributed by a local radio station. Bobbing among the shade umbrellas were a handful of workers for Senator Barack Obama, carrying clipboards and voter registration forms.
On Monday night, others fanned out at a movie screening for surfers in Wrightsville Beach. They descended on a street festival in Asheville. When oil companies posted record profits, Obama supporters showed up at gas stations here with registration forms.
Despite the relentless heat, and midsummer lull, the Obama campaign is mobilizing in North Carolina. The state is one of half a dozen once-solid Republican bastions, including Georgia, Indiana and Virginia, where Democrats now sniff opportunity to expand the electoral map.
They hope that North Carolina’s growth, especially among high-tech workers in Research Triangle Park, will help change voting patterns that are decades old. But the Obama strategy relies on a surge among black voters and young people, two groups that have not turned out in great numbers in recent elections.
To that end, the organization of Mr. Obama, the presumptive Democratic nominee, has been conducting an intense registration drive, appearing wherever people gather, as well as singling out potential voters in neighborhoods and online, and reaching out to undecided voters. It has also reactivated the extensive volunteer network it built before crushing Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton here in the May primary, and it is already running television commercials.
The campaign of the presumed Republican nominee, Senator John McCain, by contrast, has been barely visible. But his camp says it is getting in gear, and it has history on its side.

Click HERE to read the entire article

Barack in Raleigh on Tuesday

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:57:33 EDT

On Tuesday, Barack will hold a Town Hall to discuss economic security for North Carolina families--and how to put our economy back on track. As unemployment hits a five year high here in N.C., this is issue number one for many North Carolinians.

This will be Barack's ninth visit to the state and we are excited to welcome him back!

Tuesday’s event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required. A limited number of tickets are available. There is a limit of two tickets per adult and one ticket for people under 16. You can pick up free tickets at the following locations beginning Monday, August 18th, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, or until tickets are no longer available.

Raleigh Ticket Distribution Location
Raleigh Campaign for Change Headquarters
130 E. Morgan St.
Raleigh, NC 37601

Cary Distribution Location
Cary Campaign for Change Headquarters
215 E. Chatham
Cary, NC 27511

In the News: The Obama Campaign in North Carolina

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 10:17:41 EDT

From the Henderson Times-News: Obama Working Hard to Win N.C.

Henderson County resident Rich Brinegar is championing Sen. Barack Obama. Named a “Crew Chief” for the Democrat’s presidential campaign, Brinegar is responsible for two precincts in the county and plans to knock on hundreds of doors before the election.“I’m going to work my little tail off,” Brinegar said.
The campaign has identified North Carolina as one of 18 battleground states in the race against Republican Sen. John McCain. It has pumped $2 million into North Carolina in media advertising and has 75 paid staffers. The campaign plans to push millions more into the state before the election, Obama state campaign director Marc Farinella said in a conference call Wednesday.
“It’s not that big a stretch for Barack Obama to win North Carolina this year,” he said. “This is a battleground, and we’re going to win it.”
While Obama won the North Carolina Democratic primary over Sen. Hillary Clinton by a significant margin, Obama faces challenges in Western North Carolina. Henderson County is a Republican stronghold and Obama only won Buncombe and Watauga counties during the primary.
Farinella admitted that “we have lots of ground to make up” in areas like Western North Carolina.
Brinegar worked for Obama during the primary and received positive feedback. The residents of Western North Carolina have been receptive to Obama’s message, he said.
“I think the 11th Congressional District is winnable by Sen. Obama,” Brinegar said.
Farinella said the campaign has put resources into the western part of the state and other areas where Clinton had a strong showing in the primary.
“We are very involved in reaching out to Hillary Clinton supporters,” he said.
The campaign has an office in Asheville and a paid staff member responsible for Henderson County.
Hendersonville resident Karl Silverman, who campaigned for Clinton during the primary, said Obama has a chance to win North Carolina, but believes he faces an uphill battle in the western part of the state.
“It is truly a battleground state,” Silverman said.
...Gibbs Knotts, political science professor at Western Carolina University, said...“It’s an area where Obama can do well,” Knotts said. “It has a strong Democratic history and a tradition of voting for an African-American candidate.”
...The Obama campaign believes demographic trends and political trends are working in the Democratic senator’s favor.
North Carolina has seen an increase in Democratic registration and a large number of people moving to the state. Farinella said 600,000 people have moved to North Carolina since the 2004 election and a large number of those new residents have registered Democrat or unaffiliated.
Knotts said it is good that North Carolina and other “New South” states like Virginia and Georgia are being talked about this election. The Republican Party might be more on the defensive this year in traditionally Republican states, he said.
“It is good to have presidential strategists talk about North Carolina,” Knotts said.

From USA Today

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Barack Obama's campaign said Wednesday it has spent more than $2 million so far on general election television ads in North Carolina, a practical sign that the presumptive Democratic nominee is serious about breaking a 32-year electoral vote drought.

Backstage with Good Charlotte--Including Video!

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 10:57:29 EDT

On Sunday, we sat down with Good Charlotte lead singer, Joel Madden, to hear about why he supports Barack. Throughout the conversation, Mr. Madden kept going back to the younger generation--his generation-- for why he got involved.

"I have always felt disconnected from politics. I have never really been interested in politics until Barack Obama. I have never been passionate about a candidate before Obama.

...I've never seen our generation--and the generation under us and the generation above us--come together for a candidate like they do now."

Check out this video:

Are you a student who wants to get involved now? INTERN with the campaign or VISIT our NC Students for Barack page.

Looking for something to do tonight? Check out Cary's office opening at 6:30!

Be the First to Know Barack's VP Choice!

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:01:07 EDT

Our campaign manager, David Plouffe, announced this exciting news last night:

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

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

Sign up today to be the first to know:

http://my.barackobama.com/vp

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

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

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

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

Thanks,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Join Your Neighborhood Change Crew

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:37:51 EDT

Last night Chris Lewis, the Field Director Director of Obama's CAMPAIGN for CHANGE in North Carolina, sent out an email about how we can all take action today to help elect Barack Obama the next President:

Merici,
You can play a major role in Barack Obama's Campaign for Change here in North Carolina.

With the general election approaching, supporters are coming together in their neighborhoods to support Barack Obama. You can be a part of this movement by joining your local North Carolina Change Crew.

Change Crews are groups of friends and neighbors who will reach out to their communities, canvass their neighborhoods, and help bring more people into our political process by registering new voters. These Change Crews are crucial to our success in North Carolina.

Learn how you can join a North Carolina Change Crew.

If you're ready to take the next step and make a personal commitment, you should consider joining your neighborhood Change Crew. Along with that commitment will come the opportunity to take ownership of the campaign in the Tar Heel State.

Here's what North Carolina change crews will help do:
Register new voters in your neighborhood
Identify Obama supporters in your community and recruit more -- Campaign for Change staff will provide you with all of the resources you need
Support Barack and other Democrats up and down the ballot this November, and help mobilize neighborhood supporters to join you
Help Get Out The Vote during Early Voting and on Election Day

No prior experience is required. You just need to support Barack and be ready to turn your energy and enthusiasm into action.

And with less than 100 days left before the election, right now is a perfect time to get involved by organizing supporters in your community.

Join your local North Carolina Change Crew today.

Thank you,

Chris

Chris Lewis
North Carolina Field Director
Campaign for Change

P.S. -- This campaign is about you. If you have any stories or pictures that you would like to share with your North Carolina Obama community, feel free to submit them online:

http://nc.barackobama.com/NCshare

"The Bottom Line Is Leadership"

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 17:59:08 EDT

Yesterday Major General Geoffrey Lambert traveled to Charlotte and Fayetteville to discuss why he supports Senator Obama. His story is a fascinating one--he is the former Commanding General of the Army Special Forces Command (Airborne) and the Army's school for Green Berets at Fort Bragg and now sits on Sen. Obama's Iraq Policy Committee. Crowds filled Fayetteville's VFW Post 6018 and Charlotte's Campaign for Change office; this event gave veterans and non-veterans an opportunity to come together to discuss issues that matter to us all and why we need a change in direction.

Maj. Gen. Lambert discussed why Barack is the choice for veterans and members of the military:

On veterans issues, Senator Obama has never failed to support our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, or the coasties.

...traumatic brain injury research, post traumatic stress disorder, keeping the costs of TRICARE down, enhancing health benefits, prosthetic research and the like - Senator Obama is always there for us veterans.

There is no candidate who can hold a candle to his record on vets.

I have been a Republican most of my life, with North Carolina friends on both sides of the aisle. And I did not come to my decision to support Senator Obama lightly. But because we now have an opportunity to move beyond the past and to usher in competent new national leadership, I want to do all I can to help put Senator Obama in the white house.

...The bottom line is leadership. On foreign policy, veterans issues, and security for our nation, Senator Obama displays the judgment and ability to lead that the American people can count on.

...Three years into an Obama administration my son will be eligible to be activated in the service. And I am here to tell you that I am not worried.

Are you a veteran, active duty military or a military spouse and want receive Obama updates about military issues? Sign up here and we will contact you shortly.

Canvass and Cake and Fun

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 11:51:23 EDT

Last night, supporters from across North Carolina went door to door to talk to their neighbors and help spread Barack's message of change. There was excitement in the air as people knocked on doors--last night was also Barack's 47th Birthday. North Carolina delivered Barack a special gift, as hundreds of people contacted thousands of voters.

At the beginning of the night, volunteers came together for a canvass training--and a special guest call by former governor Hunt. After getting everyone fired up, Gov. Hunt sent everyone out to canvass.

Everyone's favorite part of the night, following the canvass, of course, was the post canvass birthday cake. Supporters had an opportunity to come together and share stories, laughs and cake.

Find an event in your area this weekend. Join the movement and meet other supporters in your neighborhood.

Thank You, North Carolina!

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 22:37:51 EDT

Thank you to all who participated in Barack's Birthday Challenge! Hundreds of people canvassed their neighborhoods for Barack's birthday--what a special gift.

We will have the pictures up soon.

YES. WE. CAN.

Maj. Gen. Geoffrey Lambert to Visit Charlotte and Fayetteville Tomorrow

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:16:51 EDT

North Carolina's Campaign for Change is happy to invite you to this Tuesday's events in both Charlotte and Fayetteville.

Join Major General Geoffrey Lambert, United States Army (Ret.), a veteran and a distinguished former military leader, as he discusses his support for Barack Obama!

Lambert is the former Commanding General of the Army Special Forces Command (Airborne) and the Army's school for Green Berets at Fort Bragg, NC.

Tuesday, August 5th, 10 a.m.
Charlotte Barack Obama’s Campaign For Change Charlotte HQ
1523 Elizabeth Ave, Suite 100
Charlotte NC 28204

Tuesday August 5th, 3 p.m.
VFW Post 6018
116 Chance St
Fayetteville, NC 28301

RSVP: http://nc.barackobama.com/nclambertevent

See you tomorrow!

Birthday Wishes for Barack

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 10:29:17 EDT

Happy Birthday Barack!!

Want to send Barack your very own Happy Birthday wish?

Send him one here:
http://nc.barackobama.com/ncbirthdaywishes

And of course, don't forget about Barack's Birthday Challenge, happening TODAY statewide.
http://nc.barackobama.com/NCBDayChallenge

We RSVPed on Facebook

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 21:46:48 EDT

We are very excited about tomorrow's Canvass and Cake events...so excited that we even created a facebook event.

Barack's Birthday is only hours away--Take Barack's Birthday Challenge and attend a Canvass and Cake celebration tomorrow.

LEARN more about the Challenge. FIND an event near you. Become a supporter of North Carolina for Obama on facebook.

P.S. Leave Barack a comment on the blog and wish him a Happy Birthday!

In the News: We Mean Business

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 17:21:47 EDT

From the Greensboro News-Record:

Obama Sets Up Shop in NC
Sunday, August 3rd
So it seems Sen. Barack Obama wasn’t kidding back during the Democrat presidential primary when he promised to invest in North Carolina during the General Election.
The Illinois senator’s campaign has put commercials on the air here this summer and opened offices across the state, including one on South Elm Street in Greensboro.
“We mean business here,” said Marc Farinella , the state director for Obama’s effort in North Carolina.
Farinella said there isn’t a standard Obama campaign playbook, although many of the things he talks most enthusiastically about are strategies associated with the presumptive Democratic nominee elsewhere.
“We’ll still have TV ads and radio ads and all that kind of stuff,” he said. “But the thing that’s maybe different about what we’re doing is we’re very focused on communities and people talking to other people in their own communities.”
The idea, he said, is that people are more receptive to a message if it’s delivered by a friend or neighbor than if it’s simply blasted out over the airwaves.
...Obama will be back in the state, Farinella said, and would have had one more post-primary trip in if it weren’t for mechanical problems on a plane last month.
In terms of content, Farinella said voters should expect Obama and his staff to talk about a basket of economic issues, including trade policy and its effect on manufacturing jobs in North Carolina.
“We find ourselves talking about this issue quite a bit because so many people are talking to us about it,” he said. “It’s clearly a very significant issue here.”

Barack's Birthday Challenge--TOMORROW!

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 10:31:51 EDT

I received this letter from our North Carolina Field Director and thought I would share it with you...

Dear Merici-- This Monday, August 4th, Barack will be celebrating his 47th birthday -- and you have a unique opportunity to give him something that few other people across the nation can.

Monday night, the Campaign for Change will be hosting Canvass and Cake events all across North Carolina.

Each event will be an opportunity to team up with other local supporters and to build this movement for change in your community, before coming together for the birthday celebration.

If you participate, you'll be strengthening the campaign's position in a crucial battleground state. But if you knock on 47 doors or more, you'll also qualify for a chance to meet Barack the next time he's in North Carolina.

Sign up now to knock on 47 doors for Barack's 47th and a chance to meet Barack:
http://nc.barackobama.com/NCBDayChallenge
Thanks to the energy and efforts of supporters like you, we have a real opportunity to succeed here in North Carolina. But to do that, we have to make sure that the voice of every single North Carolinian can be heard.

That's why one of the best things you can do to help Barack celebrate his 47th birthday is to sign up for the Barack Birthday Challenge.

If you contact 47 new voters at a Canvass and Cake event on Barack's birthday, you'll qualify to be selected to meet Barack the next time he comes here.

We can win this state for Barack and Democrats across the state, but it's going to take all of us working together.

Take Barack's Birthday Challenge and contact voters across the Tar Heel State:

http://nc.barackobama.com/NCBDayChallenge

We can't do this without you.

Thank you,
Chris

Chris Lewis
North Carolina Field Director
Campaign for Change

P.S. -- If you can't help with Barack's Birthday Challenge, don't worry -- your time is still the best gift you can give. Please let us know if you would like to volunteer in another capacity or at another time:

http://nc.barackobama.com/NCvolunteer

Voter Registration in Cary

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 19:53:14 EDT

Barack has always been passionate about giving everyone a chance to participate -- and here in North Carolina, volunteers have been doing their part to help register new voters. Today, Susan, Lynn and Kim registered new voters in Cary. The mercury soared above comfortable, but that did not deter them from reminding people to update their voter registration information or ask people to register.

The Obama campaign is Susan's first campaign volunteer experience -- and she jumped in headfirst this summer at voter registration drives over the 4th of July. Barack inspired her to get involved and she wants to
help bring more people into the process.

Lynn is an international voter registration aficionado. The months leading up to the 2004 election found Lynn and her family registering American citizens abroad in Mexico City, Mexico. One of the most important pieces of voter registration is educating people about what is required for registration and what is not -- whether you're in Raleigh or abroad, you want to do what you can to help citizens register correctly and ensure that they will be able to vote.

Not registered? Click here for more information.

Help us register new voters--sign up here.

A Chance to Meet Barack in North Carolina!

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 11:31:23 EDT

We are excited to announce Barack's Birthday Challenge!

Barack's 47th Birthday is Monday, August 4th and to celebrate, we will be hosting statewide Canvass and Cake events on Monday evening.

If you knock on 47 doors or more during a Canvass and Cake event, you will qualify for a chance to meet Barack the next time he is in North Carolina.

Sign up now to knock on 47 doors for Barack's 47th and a chance to meet Barack:

http://nc.barackobama.com/NCBDayChallenge_nchome

North Carolina Women for Obama: Read Barack's Plan

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 11:17:23 EDT

This week Barack announced his plan to support Working Women and Families. We thought we would share it with our NC blog readers and encourage you to read it, digest it and post any thoughts in the comments. Or, feel free to send us your thoughts to nc@barackobama.com.

Barack Obama's Plan to Support Working Women and Families - Upload a Document to Scribd

We look forward to hearing from you!

NC Veterans to McCain: Stop Playing Politics with Our Troops

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:41:49 EDT

North Carolina Veterans sent an open letter to Senator McCain asking the Arizona Senator to stop his false attacks on Barack and to renew his pledge to run a civil campaign. We thought we would share this with you to not only show the support from veterans across North Carolina, but to also help put an end to unfounded attacks.

Here is the text of the letter:

An Open Letter from North Carolina Veterans to Senator John McCain

As Americans and North Carolina veterans, we are disappointed in your treatment of Senator Barack Obama and his visit to our troops while in Afghanistan, Kuwait and Iraq. You may differ with Senator Obama on the strategy in Iraq, but we should be united in support for our brave troops and their fight to protect this nation. When you attempt to distort Senator Obama's actions – at a time when we face enormous challenges abroad – you do not honor your promise to run a civil campaign. While we respect your service to our country, we cannot stand by while you falsely attack Senator Obama.

Your campaign knew that Senator Obama planned to visit Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany but he did not want the trip to be perceived as a campaign appearance. By using false advertising and television interviews to question Senator Obama's motives, your campaign accomplished exactly what he sought to avoid and what you yourself had previously warned against; doing a disservice to those who fought by playing politics with their service. These false accusations do not honor our troops – it demeans the debate in this campaign.

Your attempt to sully Senator Obama's intentions is particularly discouraging because your own record on veterans does not measure up to his. While Obama consistently voted to provide funding and badly needed equipment for troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, you voted to authorize President Bush to send troops into combat without adequate vehicle and body armor. Senator Obama supported the 21st Century GI Bill from the beginning - giving every returning veteran a real chance to go to college. You opposed it when your support was really needed. Senator Obama voted for increased funding for military and veterans hospitals when a $1.2 billion shortfall was identified. You did not. Senator Obama introduced legislation to improve the disgraceful conditions at some of our military hospitals, but your support of wounded veterans has so neglected their needs, the Disabled American Veterans consistently rank your record at below 50%.

Senator Obama knows that support for troops fighting today must continue when they become veterans returning to the country they served. He visited American troops last week to express his deep gratitude for their dedication – a gratitude he makes good on with his support of veterans here at home. We ask that you put an end to these attacks and conduct the honest and honorable campaign you promised the American people.

Glen D. Howard US Army Veteran Fayetteville, NC

Martin A. Dyckman US Army Veteran Waynesville, NC

Grier Martin US Army Veteran Raleigh, NC

Rodger Koopman USAF Veteran Raleigh, NC

Michael L. Buie. ET1(SS) US Navy Veteran Garner, NC

Valencia "Val" Applewhite USAF Veteran Fayetteville, NC

Catherine M. Bowen USAF Veteran Durham, NC

Russell T. Bowen USAF Veteran Durham, NC

Help us fight the smears: join the Obama Action Wire.

House by House, Precinct by Precinct

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 19:01:19 EDT

Durham’s Campaign for Change office on 112 W. Main Street opened today. The crowd poured into the streets to listen to Congressman David Price’s kickoff the 100 Days Canvass. Congressman Price praised the volunteers for their hard work—and team work—and then sent them off to canvass with a request that everyone come back to volunteer over the next 100 days.

“Let’s take Durham house by house, precinct by precinct and let’s take North Carolina county by county and let’s elect Barack!” local Field Organizer Tom Wolf encouraged as volunteers went to their canvass trainings.

Help us take North Carolina house by house—volunteer in your local field office.

Notes from the Coast: Office Opening in Wilmington

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 11:27:41 EDT

As office openings continue this weekend and next week, we thought we would highlight Wilmington's opening last weekend--over 100 volunteers braved a tropical storm to show their support for Barack's local office! Here is regional director Nathan Williams' account:

As Wilmington was buffeted by Tropical Storm (downgraded to tropical depression) Cristobal, over 100 volunteers and other supporters braved the elements and made their way to Wilmington’s new Campaign for Change Headquarters last Saturday!

Volunteers and staff shared food, laughs, and a determination to register new voters--and a few plucky groups went out into the rain to do just that!

You don’t have to wait for special events, though. We are registering voters every day: just come on by the office or “Find Events” to the right and enter your zip code.

We couldn’t register this future voter yet, but she did show us her design for the Campaign for Change logo!

There are still five more office openings to go! Winston-Salem and Hickory tonight, Durham tomorrow and more next week. Find your local office opening now.

Fight the Smears: The Truth About Barack's Trip Abroad

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 09:41:51 EDT

There's lots of misinformation going out out on the internet about Barack's trip overseas:

Lie:
Barack Obama didn't take time to meet with troops on his overseas trip.

Conservative blogs, referencing an inaccurate email from abroad, have been spreading the rumor that Barack Obama gave troops the cold shoulder on his foreign trip.

Barack Obama spent time throughout his trip visiting with and thanking our troops in Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq. He was proud to meet so many of our troops overseas and has repeatedly praised their service and dedication.

Obama visiting with troops and playing basketball in Kuwait:

FIGHT THE SMEARS. Sign up on the Obama Action Wire and help put an end to these false attacks.

"A World that Stands As One." ~Barack in Berlin

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 19:23:31 EDT

Barack addressed a crowd of over 200,000 people in Berlin's Tiergarten Park today. Watch the video...

From campaign manager David Plouffe:

Today, he spoke in Berlin, Germany.

In a city where a wall once divided the free from the oppressed, he talked about tearing down the walls that divide all peoples so we can address our common problems -- the threats of terrorism and nuclear weapons, global warming and genocide, AIDS and poverty.

For the full text of the speech, click here. Read more about Barack's foreign policy plan here.

Register for Change Bus Tour in North Carolina

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 14:11:03 EDT

The Register for Change bus tour is making its way to North Carolina! Friday, July 25th (tomorrow), Howard Dean will visit three cities--Raleigh, Greensboro and Charlotte--and will be registering new voters at each stop.

The Register for Change Bus Tour kicked off on July 17th in Crawford, Texas. It will register voters nationwide on its way to Denver for the Convention in August. Registering new voters plays a huge role in our strategy to elect Barack President—and getting new people involved has always been at the heart of Barack’s message of change.

Come out and meet fellow Obama supporters—and check out the Register for Change Bus! For more information, visit the Register for Change site.

Register for Change North Carolina stops:
9:00 a.m. -- 10:00 a.m.— Raleigh, North Carolina Democratic Party Headquarters, 220 Hillsborough Street
12 noon – 1:15 p.m.—Greensboro, Governmental Plaza, Greene Street (between West Market and Washington)
3:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.--Charlotte, Margery Thompson Professional Development Center, 428 West Blvd.

See you there--FIRED UP in Raleigh, Greensboro and Charlotte!

In the News: Obama Brings the Fight in N.C.

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 10:57:07 EDT

From the Raleigh News & Observer:

"Obama brings the fight to McCain in N.C."
Wednesday, July 23
North Carolina is amid an unusually intense and early presidential campaign -- with television commercials, the opening of campaign headquarters and the hiring of field staff taking place weeks before the national conventions.

Driving the activity has been Sen. Barack Obama, the presumptive Democratic nominee, who has launched a major effort here.

"North Carolina has not traditionally been a battleground state," said Marc Farinella, a veteran consultant who recently arrived in Raleigh to take charge of the Obama effort in the state. "But this cycle, it is. We are going to work hard to win it. It's going to be a very, very strong and intensive campaign here.''

There was evidence of that effort Tuesday night as about 200 people crowded into the local Obama headquarters in downtown Raleigh, where supporters were urged to take part in an effort to register new voters.

"We have been registering thousands in this office and tens of thousands across the state," said Zack Koutsky, the regional Obama field director. "That is how we will flip this state."

In response, the campaign of Sen. John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, has begun organizing his North Carolina effort well before the traditional Labor Day kickoff..."We are under no illusions," said Chris McClure, executive director of the state Republican Party. "It's a tough election."

...North Carolina's status as contested territory is unusual...The last time North Carolina voted Democratic was in 1976, when Jimmy Carter defeated President Ford in the wake of the Watergate scandal.

...This year, the Obama campaign is well financed and already has a strong organization in North Carolina following Obama's victory over Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton in the May primary. The Obama campaign said its Tar Heel primary effort included 15,000 volunteers, 81 campaign offices and 300 paid staffers.

Although the Obama effort for the general election has not reached the intensity of the primary showdown in May, it has already surpassed the activity of Sen. John Kerry's 2004 campaign.

..."We are anticipating that it could be a race in North Carolina," said Ferrell Blount, a former state GOP chairman from Pitt county who is advising the McCain campaign..."If McCain has to play a serious game in North Carolina," said Blount, "then something is going on that is not very good for John McCain."

In the News: Rocky Mount Office Opening

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 19:35:10 EDT

From the Rocky Mount Telegram

Sunday, June 20
Page 1

The Nash County Democratic Party and the Obama for President Campaign kicked off a joint open house rally Saturday evening at Sunset Centre.
Candidates, members of the Nash County Democratic Party, local staffers for U.S. Sen. Barack Obama's campaign and residents turned out to rally for the Democratic Party with the message of change.

Gwen Wilkins, chairwoman of the Nash County Democratic Party, said even though the two offices are separate entities, they will be working as one.

"We have two separate headquarters, but will be working as a team," Wilkins said. "We're focusing on all of these (state) races and Sen. Obama's campaign. It's important that he gets elected and that he has Democrats in the House and Senate to support him."

...Mae Parker a volunteer at the Rocky Mount Obama for President Campaign, said she supports Obama because of his outlook.

"I feel that he's going to be good for our country," Parker said. "That's what drives me to volunteer. He fits in with the vision of things."

Wilkins rallied the crowd of about 35 people, speaking on why the party must work to get Obama elected.
"It's very critical that we get him in the White House at 1600," she said. "We're going to be canvassing for our state candidates and Obama. We need your support."

Megan Smith, a staffer for the Obama campaign, said during the May primary in Rocky Mount, Obama received overwhelming support from local residents.

"There was a buzz, and we did really well here," Smith said, adding the campaign office is the Northeast regional headquarters in North Carolina.

"We need your help, and I cannot stress how important your help is going to be. We're bringing North Carolina together, and it's going to go blue."

Weber, who attended the event, spoke on a variety of issues facing the 3rd Congressional District, but reminded the crowd of how important it is to support Obama.

"One hundred and fifty years ago, a man came out of Illinois to put the pieces back together – his name was Abraham Lincoln," Weber said. "One hundred and fifty years later another man comes out of Illinois to put the pieces back together – his name is Barack Obama."

...Wilkins said the Nash County Democratic Party headquarters will open Aug. 4 and operate from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. In September, the office will change hours and will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
The Obama for President Campaign Rocky Mount headquarters opens daily at 10 a.m.

Office Openings in Greenville and Greensboro

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:36:45 EDT

Across North Carolina Obama Regional HQs are opening! This week offices in Greensboro and Greenville opened their doors to the eager masses of Obama volunteers. Attendees were thrilled to meet their local staffers and other supporters--the enthusiasm, the hugs, the laughter--it honestly felt like a family reunion.

Greenville Regional Headquarters Office Opening

The epic Greensboro Calendar and the gorgeous Greensboro office

Find a Campaign for Change office opening in your area!

On the Ground in North Carolina

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:41:53 EDT

I just received this email from our North Carolina State Director and thought I would share it with you:

Dear Merici,

The next phase of the Campaign for Change is up and running in North Carolina, and people like you are already building the movement that will help carry Barack to victory in November.

Democrats, Independents, and even Republicans have worked side-by-side to change our politics from the bottom up.

This week, we're kicking off our general election efforts with more than half a dozen Campaign for Change office grand openings across North Carolina.

Find an office opening near you and help grow our movement for change:

http://nc.barackobama.com/ncofficeopening

These office openings are a perfect way to learn about our strategy in North Carolina and introduce our movement for change to friends, family, and neighbors in your community.

We have a great opportunity to succeed in North Carolina, and we're rapidly gearing up for the months ahead. But we must do this together.

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

http://nc.barackobama.com/ncofficeopening

I hope you can join us.

Thank you,

Marc

Marc Farinella
North Carolina State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- If you can't make it to an office opening but would like to help grow our movement for change in North Carolina, sign up to volunteer:

http://nc.barackobama.com/ncvolunteer

"Getting him elected is my life"

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:13:43 EDT

As we highlight organizational meetings across North Carolina, we thought we would have one of our new interns, Bindhu, share her experience at a meeting in Chapel Hill.

Last night, Orange County residents, passionate about turning North Carolina “blue” and sending Obama to D.C., gathered in the Student Union of UNC-CH for an organizational meeting. Heading the event was Orange County’s Field Organizer, Andrew Wiese and the guest speaker of the evening was Chapel Hill’s single delegate, Graig Meyer who challenged the crowd to be a part of the large effort to register an additional 100,000 new voters across the state.

The evident enthusiasm and ardent determination were the unifying forces that brought together these residents from across a spectrum of ages and backgrounds. Moved by one another’s zeal for a historical victory, attendees applauded several times for statements made to the effect of “… getting him elected is my life.”
The meeting ended with a voter registration training session, empowering individuals to take the lead in there own communities and own a part of the campaign. Attending such an event and being amongst a population who so passionately work towards a common goal for the common good is invigorating and inspiring.

Attend an organizational meeting -- this is our moment! Find a meeting near you.

Organizational Meeting Highlights: Charlotte

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:06:00 EDT

On Saturday, July 12th, over 200 supporters and their families made their way to 1523 Elizabeth Avenue to take their first step toward victory here in Charlotte, North Carolina! Senator Obama's local Campaign for Change held the county's first general election organizational meeting to help supporters get acquainted with each other and their local Campaign for Change staff. Staffers wanted to thank the audience for their efforts in the primary and reiterate that their commitment as volunteers would be the key to success moving forward. The focus was clearly on growing the Charlotte Obama community and energizing supporters to do their part to get their entire neighborhoods registered to vote.

A unique challenge was issued to attendees as the crowd was encouraged to pull out their cell phones to call their friends and families to listen to the excitement around them, and to sign up as volunteers. Everyone took pride in the local grassroots efforts. With the volunteer sign-ups that came pouring in, it quickly became obvious that this operation will almost entirely run off the passion and energy of Senator Obama's volunteers.

Charlotte, North Carolina is ready to hit the streets! In case it wasn't obvious by the turnout of fired up volunteers, their chants could be heard from blocks away:
"Barack Obama, yes it's true - Carolina's turning BLUE!"

Your Jacksonville Neighbors!

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 22:36:09 EDT

After the Onslow County organizational meeting, I had a chance to talk with Lorraine and Kathy from Jacksonville. During the meeting, they encouraged everyone to use Neighbor to Neighbor to canvass. Lorraine discovered the Neighbor to Neighbor tool and rallied Kathy to come and canvass her neighborhood. They had a great time and talked to voters of all persuasions—and loved doing it! Additionally, they printed up the flier and used it as a handy piece to give to undecided voters (or anyone who wanted one). I enjoyed hearing about their experience and look forward to hearing more from them. Keep it up, ladies!

Want to spread Barack’s message of change in your neighborhood? Click here to learn more about Neighbor to Neighbor and start talking to your neighbors today!

Onslow County Organizational Meeting

Merici Vinton ~North Carolina HQ — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 19:52:53 EDT

It was standing room only for the Onslow County Organizational meeting as Obama field organizer Jason Karsh got the crowd fired up to volunteer for the summer and fall. While voter registration drives are going to be a big effort, Mr. Karsh also encouraged volunteers to look for other ways to get involved and give back to the community. The audience was very active with great ideas for voter outreach and contact—when people are truly empowered, they come up with some incredible ideas that will have a huge impact on the campaign.

Gloria (above) was glad to be back in campaign mode. She was a loyal volunteer during the primary—she brought food for the staff, volunteered at the office daily, canvassed on doors and helped the staff prepare for their Get Out the Vote (GOTV) efforts. Gloria is passionate about encouraging people to exercise their right to vote; as a student in one of the first schools to desegregate in Western Carolina, Gloria has experienced first hand how politics can impact our lives. She is excited to have more new “Obama Family Members” back in Jacksonville.

County Organizational Meetings are will be taking place across North Carolina tomorrow--next week--and into the following week. Let's make some history together--head on over to one of your local Campaign for Change Organizational Meetings!