Nikki Sutton's Blog

One Million Calls Made: Keep Calling

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 21:22:49 EST

We just broke one million calls for the day, once again showing the power of this movement, but polls are still open in critical battleground states like Montana and Nevada and the night is still young. Supporters around the country keep calling to ensure voters know where to go to vote. The calls you make in the next hour could make the difference in the outcome of these states.

We are closing in on our goal for 1.2 million calls for Election Day and these are the calls that will bring us to victory. Make calls to Montana and Nevada now.

Veterans of all Generations are Voting for Barack Obama

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:23:41 EST

No one knows better than veterans and military family members how important this election is for the future of our nation. You can look up your polling location right now to vote for change. Veterans from the Iraq War share why they are voting for Barack Obama:

It is not just young veterans who are voting for change. Bernie, a Navy Vietnam veteran, explains why he is supporting Barack.

If you have already voted, you can help ensure voters in key battleground states get out to vote by making calls. Polls begin to close in just under an hour and we need your help to get out the vote now.

Why we need to vote for change

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:35:42 EST

Sherry's story reminds us why today we need to vote for change. She lives near Wilmington, Ohio, where a merger between DHL and UPS threatens 8,000 jobs like hers, in a community of 10,000 people. Make sure your coworkers and neighbors all get out and vote today to help save towns like Wilmington all over our country.

Sherry shares...

Because of his and Michelle's roots, coming from the families that they come from, they know what it's like to stuggle. And McCain, I don't think he gets it. Of course, he wouldn't speak with us. He wanted the task force, the higher ups in this town, the Mayor and County Commissioner.
Senator Obama, here we are, just workers, and here we are sitting with him and we're discussing what's going on and...we're not anybody important and that made us feel a little better because you know we don't have to have a title to sit with him and talk with him.

Today we need you to do more than vote. You can still volunteer in your community to get out the vote. You can also make calls from your home. In just a few hours polls will begin to close and there are still hundreds of thousands of voters that need a reminder to get out and vote.

I voted! Did you?

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:33:49 EST

It is Election Day and Lu Davis, who is ninety-years-old, has already voted for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. She shares how proud she is to support the future of our country with her vote.

Join Lu in voting for the future today. You can find your polling place and hours at VoteForChange.com. After voting, help others find their polling locations and encourage them to get out and vote by making calls from the comfort of your home. All you need is a phone and a desire to bring about change in our country.

Orlando Bloom makes calls to GOTV

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:32:58 EST

Orlando Bloom is busy volunteering for Barack in a California office making calls to Get Out The Vote. He asks you to find your polling location at VoteForChange.com and vote right away.

After you vote, you can volunteer in your neighborhood to help get out the vote or make calls to voters in critical battleground states. Help make history today.

"People who want change as badly as I do"

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:17:29 EST

It is Election Day and after voting you can help remind others to vote and make sure they know their polling location by making calls from the comfort of your home. After logging in, you will receive a list of names to call and a simple get out the vote script.

Aimee, a supporter who has been making calls from home, shares her experience:

I am and have been permanently disabled for about 13 years, and wheelchair bound, and on medications that preclude me from driving. But I wanted more than anything to get involved with Barack's campaign and be able to help in some way and make a difference. I am on Disability, so I certainly do not have anywhere need the kind of funds that I would like to donate.
On the web, sitting in bed one day I come across this wonderful tool. Enabling me to phonebank as much as my little heart desires, right from my home, my own computer, and my own phone.
I already must have made close to 300 calls, mostly to Ohio...and have gotten to speak with so many nice people who want Change as badly as I do! I finally feel as if I have a way to really make a difference.

With only hours until polls begin to close, we need your help to reach one million more voters today. Join Aimee in making calls now.

"The outcome of this campaign depends on what you do"

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 02:30:52 EST

Here is an Election Day message to you from Konrad Ng.

You can find out where, when and how to vote in your state at VoteForChange.com. After voting, help others find their polling location by making calls.

"Faith is at the core of who I am"

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 23:18:14 EST

Over the last twenty-one months, people of faith across the nation have seen how faith guides Barack Obama in his life. Matthew Josten is a student at Taylor University in Indiana who shares why his faith and values have led him to support Barack.

Now is the time to turn your support into a vote. Look up your polling location here. Once you've voted, call others to help them find their polling places and remind them the hours that the polls are open. Working together we can bring about real change.

How much will you save?

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 23:00:06 EDT

Small Business for Obama just sent the following message:

Nikki --

There's been a lot in the news lately about how Barack's tax plan is going to affect American small businesses.

John McCain is making false claims that Barack plans to raise taxes on small business.

But here's the truth: Barack's plan applies to the net income that a small business owner takes home, not gross revenue. 98 percent of American small businesses make less than $250,000 in net income -- and virtually all of them would get a tax cut under Barack's plan.

We've put together a tax calculator that makes it easy to see how small business owners would fare under Barack's plan.

It only takes a minute -- just enter your annual net income to find out what you'll save, and share this with everyone you know.

Small businesses and middle class families have been struggling for too long under Bush-McCain economic policies.

Along with cutting or freezing taxes on most small businesses, Barack will eliminate the capital gains tax on investments in every small business, from 15 percent down to zero.

And he'll offer all small businesses a Health Care Tax Credit for up to 50 percent of health insurance premiums -- making it easier for them to get health care for their workers.

Barack wants to help rebuild this economy from the bottom up, with middle class families and small business leading the way.

Use our tax cut calculator to find out how much you will save in net income taxes, then share it with your friends:

http://my.barackobama.com/SBtaxcut

There are only 5 days left until Election Day, and a lot of people need to know the truth. Help us get the facts out there.

Thanks for all that you do,

Small Business for Obama

Talk with Jewish Voters in Battleground States

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:35:17 EDT

Jewish Americans around the country are talking to their friends, volunteering in their local offices, and helping to get out the vote in the final days before the election. One of the ways you can help is to call Jewish voters in critical battleground states.

The online call tool provides you with a simple script and targeted list of names to call whenever works best from you. You can call Jewish voters in Pennsylvania, Florida, Virginia, Ohio, or another battleground state near you. The conversations you have now could make all the difference on November 4th.

Reaching voters in Rural Communities

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:13:29 EDT

This week Jim, a volunteer in Willow Springs, Missouri, found an unconventional way to talk to his neighbors about Barack Obama. Check it out:

You don't need a horse to talk with voters and impact this election. You can make calls to rural voters in Wisconsin, rural voters in Indiana, or voters in another battleground state near you whenever and wherever works best for you.

Have a conversation about Barack Obama

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:35:28 EDT

Today the American dream that pulled our ancestors towards the shores of our nation seems to be slipping away for too many. In this election Barack Obama has put forth a plan to help us recapture that dream by strengthening our economy, making health care more affordable, increasing educational opportunities, and restoring our image around the world. In response, the McCain campaign has answered with smears and divisiveness, attempting to break the bonds that tie us together as a melting-pot of people by playing to fears and misplaced suspicions.

European and Mediterranean American voters are ready for a change and you can help bring about that change by talking with voters about Barack Obama.

You can make calls to Greek voters, Irish voters in Ohio and Pennsylvania, or Italian voters in Virginia and Pennsylvania. After logging in you'll receive a list of names to call and a simple script. This is one of the best ways to impact the outcome of this election right from home.

Connect with Senior Voters

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:24:43 EDT

Retirement savings are near a historic low and with skyrocketing health care, energy and housing costs, too many seniors do not have the resources to live comfortably. You can help talk with senior voters about the challenges we're facing today and Barack Obama and Joe Biden's plans to protect Social Security, provide cheaper prescription drugs, and strengthen Medicare.

Barack Obama also has a plan to engage more interested seniors in public service opportunities by expanding and improving programs like Senior Corps to connect seniors with quality volunteer opportunities. During this campaign we've seen the tremendous enthusiasm and time dedicated to this campaign by senior supporters across the nation.

You can get involved from the comfort of your home and make calls to seniors in critical battleground states like Florida and Pennsylvania. After logging in, we'll provide you with a simple script and list of names to call. Talk with seniors in Pennsylvania, seniors in Florida, voters near you about why you are supporting Barack Obama for President.

Talk with Sportsmen about Barack Obama

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:20:23 EDT

Barack Obama believes the Second Amendment creates an individual right, and he respects the constitutional rights of Americans to bear arms. He will protect the rights of hunters and other law-abiding Americans to purchase, own, transport and use guns. He will also work to create new access for hunting and angling to ensure sportsmen have extensive public lands to continue the American traditions of hunting and fishing.

There are many sportsmen that do not know Barack's plans to support the rights and traditions of sportsmen. With just days until the election and early voting under way in battleground states like Wisconsin, you can help spread the word by calling fellow sportsmen.

You will receive a simple script and list of names to start calling sportsmen in Wisconsin right now or you can make calls to voters near you. Learn more about Barack's positions on gun rights and sportsmen rights and share it with your friends and neighbors.

"I'm doing it for my daughters"

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:12:59 EDT

Rebecca from New Jersey has been calling women in Pennsylvania. When speaking with undecided voters she has found that when she shares her story, it seems to resonate. Rebecca shares...

I'm a 48 year old mother of 2 daughters and this is the first political campaign I've been involved in in my entire life, and I'm doing it for my daughters. I'm absolutely convinced that Barack is uniquely qualified to give my daughters a chance at a bright future because his ideas and his leadership address our 21st century challenges, both domestically and abroad.

In the final days before the election, calls from volunteers will encourage women to early vote in critical battleground states or answer questions on where Barack stands on the issues important to them. Find a quiet space and make some calls today.

The online calling tools enable you to make calls whenever and where ever works best for you. After logging in, you'll immediately be provided with a list of names to call and a simple script. You can connect with women in Pennsylvania, Indiana, North Carolina or voters near you. Just select the state you'd like to impact.

Click on the state you'd like to call. If you live in a battle ground state not available above, get started calling here.

Call Fellow Republicans for Barack

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:10:02 EDT

Nearly twenty-one months ago Barack Obama began this campaign for change encouraging Americans to look beyond the divisive politics of the past and remember that what binds us together is stronger than what drives us apart. Earlier this week Barack continued to share this message while making calls to voters from a volunteer office in Pennsylvania.

In the final days before the election, one of the best ways to convince an undecided voters is for them to hear from someone who shares their concerns and can answer their questions. You can impact the outcome of this election by making calls to fellow Republicans in Indiana. After logging in you'll receive a list of names to call and a simple script to follow.

Tom, a volunteer caller from California, had this to say about calling:

As a recent former Republican, I found it easier to introduce myself as a Republican for Obama to those identified as Republican on my call list.

Join Barack Obama and volunteers across the country, like Tom, in making calls for change.

Take Time Out to Make Calls

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:01:51 EDT

School, work, friends and family make it a challenge to fit anything else into busy schedules, but Jenn in San Antonio, Texas found the time to make calls between studying.

I strongly encourage anybody to phone bank. I just did that for the first time in my life this Saturday. I'm a medical student with barely enough time to study (or sleep!), but I live in a state that's red through and through, and I had been contemplating for a long time about what I could do for the campaign.

With just a week till the election, making calls to young people in battle ground states like Indiana and Pennsylvania will have a big impact in ensuring undecided voters have their questions answered and supporters can find their early vote location.

After logging in, we'll provide you with a simple script and targeted list of names to call. According to Jenn, before long you'll be a natural:

The first few calls were a bit intimidating, but about 10 calls later, it became second-nature...I took three hours out of my normal studying time and called 114 people in three states!

Join young people across the country who are impacting the outcome of this election by making calls today.

Call Fellow Veterans and Military Family Members

Nikki Sutton — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 15:44:53 EDT

The outcome of this election will affect veterans and military families across the nation. With only 10 days until November 4th, supporters within the military community are making calls to ensure that veterans and military family members know Barack's record fighting on behalf of veterans before they head to the polls.

Call fellow veterans and military family members by selecting the state you'd like to call on the map below. If you live in a battleground state that is not available on the map, you can get a list of voters in your community to call here. Once you've logged into the calling campaign, you'll immediately be provided a simple script and targeted list of voters to call.

There is no one better equipped than you to pick up the phone and have a conversation with fellow veterans and military families about why they should vote for Barack Obama.

Reach Out to Latino Voters in Battleground States

Nikki Sutton — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:37:03 EDT

Supporters across the country are calling friends, family, and even strangers to talk about Barack Obama and Joe Biden in the final days before the election.

With early vote well under way in critical battleground states like Ohio and Florida, we have a small window of time to talk with hundreds of thousands of Latino voters who will help determine the next President of the United States.

Get stated calling Latino voters by selecting the state you'd like to call on the map below. If you live in a battleground state that is not available on the map, you can get a list of voters in your community to call here. Once you've logged into the calling campaign, you'll immediately be provided a simple script and targeted list of voters to call.

Select the state you'd like to call above and login to begin reaching out to Latino voters. Every conversation you have could bring us one vote closer to victory.

Check out a phonebanking tutorial in Spanish from the Spanish Blog, which is updated daily.

Chris Walla of Death Cab for Cutie Phonebanks for Barack

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:05:24 EDT

Last week Chris Walla of Death Cab for Cutie stopped by Barack Obama's National Headquarters in Chicago to make calls using the voter contact tool Neighbor to Neighbor.

Join Chris in creating a profile at My.BarackObama.com. Once you've logged in, you can make calls to young people in battle ground states like Indiana and Pennsylvania. It is up to us to make sure students and young people across the country get involved, get out to vote, and lead our country towards change. Pick up the phone and talk with young people about the issues that are important to you in this election.

Call Women Voters in Battleground States

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 11:22:17 EDT

Voting has already begun in critical battleground states like Florida, North Carolina, and Indiana. As women across the country take a final look at the candidates and head to the polls, one of the most powerful ways to encourage them to support Barack is by reaching out and having a conversation about the issues that affect women and their families in this election, like equal pay, reproductive rights, and work and family balance.

If you live in a non battleground state, you can connect with women voters by calling into states such as Pennsylvania and North Carolina, where it could come down to every last vote. By making calls you can impact the outcome on November 4th and help bring our nation together by letting women on the other end of the phone line know that you care about their struggles and encourage them to vote for change.

With 15 days left and early voting already under way, every call you make could bring us closer to victory.

To get stated calling women voters, select the state you'd like to call on the map below. If you live in a battleground state that is not available on the map, you can get a list of voters in your community to call here. Once you've entered the calling campaign, you'll immediately be provided a simple script and targeted list of voters to call. It is such an easy way to make a big impact.

So read up on Barack's positions, set aside some time to call, get a full glass of water or hot cup of tea, get comfortable, and pick up the phone for Barack.

Select the state you'd like to call. If you live in a battle ground state not available above, get started calling here.

LIVE CHAT with Dr. Susan Rice

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 20:00:42 EDT

UPDATE: The live chat has now ended. Thank you to Dr. Rice and everyone who participated.

We are very excited to have Dr. Susan E. Rice, senior national security adviser, with us here on the blog for our first Women for Obama online policy town hall. Starting at 8:45 p.m. EDT, Dr. Rice will be available to answer your questions in the comments section below.

Dr. Rice serves as a senior national security adviser to our campaign while she is on leave from the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C. During the Clinton administration, Dr. Rice served in various capacities, including as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs. She has expertise in, among other things, the national security implications of global poverty and inequality, transnational security threats, terrorism, weak and failed states, development issues, foreign assistance, post-conflict peace-building, the United Nations, and U.N. international stability and peace operations.

Check out a video introduction for this evening's Foreign Policy discussion.

If you are having trouble viewing the video or displaying in full screen, click here.

Dr. Susan Rice will be available for 45 minutes beginning at 8:45 p.m. EDT to answer your questions in the comments section below.

LIVE: Barack's webcast to the AARP - Saturday at 8:30am ET

Nikki Sutton — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 08:22:41 EDT

UPDATED: Barack's AARP has ended, but you can read the full transcript of his opening remarks below. You can also watch the video of the full appearance, including the question and answer session.

This Saturday, September 6th, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, Barack Obama will speak via webcast to the American Association of Retired Persons Life@50+ National Event and Expo in Washington, DC.

Barack will address the crowd and answer questions on a live webcast that you can watch here at approximently 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

For generations, we have worked to keep a simple promise in this country – that those who have worked hard their entire lives have the right to retire with dignity and security. . .

But today, that promise feels like it’s slowly slipping away. You feel this in your own lives. More Americans are out of work and more are working harder for less. More have lost their homes and more are watching their home values plummet. You’re paying college tuition that’s beyond your reach while supporting your aging parents. And as you plan for your future, you’re finding it’s harder to save and it’s harder to retire.

... I’m running for President because I believe this election is all about the issues. It’s not about me, or John McCain, it’s about you. It’s about your lives. It’s about your future.

Read the full text of Barack's opening remarks . . .

Send an E-Card for National Grandparents Day

Nikki Sutton — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 18:59:58 EDT

Grandparents Day is this Sunday, September 7th. The Obama campaign has put together an easy way for you and your family to reach out to grandparents or a special older person in your life and let them know how much they mean to you. Check out our selection of online Grandparents Day cards.

Barack's grandparents played an important role in his life. He was shaped by their values and love, and he learned from their example that each generation has a responsibility to work for the generations that will follow.

Today, with your help, he is putting that lesson into action. Share Barack's story and your enthusiasm for this campaign with your grandparents and thank your grandparents for the important place they have in your lives. Honor their example and ask them to join you in our movement for change.

We've created online greeting cards you can send to show your love that we will auto-deliver on Sunday, September 7th, Grandparents Day. Together we can make a difference that will last for generations.

"I Have A Dream..."

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:52:01 EDT

Forty-five years ago today the nation stopped to listen. Martin Luther King Jr. stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and gave a speech that created the vision of what could be possible in America.

Tonight the nation’s attention will be captured once again as Barack Obama accepts the Democratic party's nomination.

Representative John Lewis from Georgia joined Bernice King and Martin Luther King III this evening in paying tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.

American Voices: Next Generation Veterans for Obama

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:24:44 EDT

The stadium at Mile High is beginning to fill up and a group of courageous veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars just helped kick off the evening by declaring why they support Barack Obama.

Veterans from all generations have expressed support for Barack Obama because of his sound judgement on Iraq and his strong record advocating for America's veterans. Senator Obama has earned particularly steadfast support from this next generation of combat veterans, many of whose political views were forged on the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Under the clear blue Colorado sky and in front of tens of thousands of Americans here at the stadium, these Iraq and Afghanistan War heroes shared their stories. Westley Moor, an Army captain and paratrooper, explained:

I want a president who believes in supporting the troops while we are overseas and with education and healthcare when we come home.

Nate Fick, an Infantry and Reconnaissance Officer, registered as a Republican when he was 18 years old and voted for John McCain in 2000, but now believes we cannot afford more of the same. That is why he is supporting Barack Obama and Joe Biden this year.

If you are serving overseas, register to vote or request your absentee ballot here. You can also learn more about the Next Generation Veterans for Obama who spoke this evening.

Convention Caucuses: "Barack is the man for the job"

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:30:45 EDT

Earlier today marked the second round of caucus meetings at the Denver Convention Center, where delegates join with community and political leaders to reflect on accomplishments of the past and goals for the future. Today's meetings included the Women Caucus, Disabilities Caucus, Youth Caucus, Faith Caucus, and Veterans and Military Families Caucus.

At the Faith Caucus a number of panelists took questions from the audience as part of a conversation about the values and priorities of the Faith community. Former Indiana Congressman, Tim Roemer, spoke about how he always keeps with him a picture of Mother Theresa that says, "Do small things with great love," to remind him of how much each of us can do, one small action at a time, to influence the world around us for the better.

Also at the Faith meeting, Wes of Falls Church, Virginia shared why he supports Barack Obama and why he has been working to help register new voters.

Barack Obama is able to hear all viewpoints without alienating people. So, even those who disagree with the final decision can respect it because they have been heard.

Larry from North Carolina participated in the Veterans Caucus today. He is a Vietnam War veteran and part of the Lumbee First American Tribe. He originally voted for Senator Clinton in the North Carolina primary, but today he explained why he is now supporting Barack Obama.

I'm a veteran. John McCain is a veteran, but I'm not supporting John McCain because he's not about what I'm about. I'm about fair wages, the environment, healthcare... I support Barack Obama. He is the man for the job.

Larry also shared why he first became politically active.

I got involved in politics because, when I was in Vietnam in 1969, I made a promise to God that if He helped me get out of there I would do whatever I could to make sure no one else had to be in a situation like that.

The convention caucuses provide an opportunity for people like Larry to have a role in the American political process and ensure real people who are taking action to renew America's promise are heard.

The Women Caucus was one of the largest today, as women from across the nation came together to celebrate Women's Equality Day, the anniversary of women gaining the right to vote.

Check out pictures from today's caucus meetings . . .

Republican Former Congressman Jim Leach: "Country comes before party"

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 22:52:05 EDT

Former Iowa Representative, Jim Leach, just shared with the country why he supports Barack Obama...

As a Republican, I stand before you with deep respect for the history and traditions of my political party. But it is clear to all Americans that something is out of kilter in our great republic. In less than a decade America's political and economic standing in the world has been diminished. Our nation's extraordinary leadership in so many areas is simply not reflected in the partisan bickering and ideological politics of Washington. Seldom has the case for an inspiring new political ethic been more compelling. And seldom has an emerging leader so matched the needs of the moment.

... I stand before you proud of my party's contributions to American history but, as a citizen, proud as well of the good judgment of good people in this good party, in nominating a transcending candidate, an individual whom I am convinced will recapture the American dream and be a truly great president: the senator from Abraham Lincoln's state -- Barack Obama.

After serving 30 years as a Republican member of the United States House of Representatives from 1977 to 2007, Jim Leach knows that we are stronger united than we are divided.

Here are some photos from the convention floor during Jim Leach's speech:

Like Jim Leach, you can join other Republicans for Obama.

Senator Clinton at the Hispanic Caucus Meeting: "We are united for change."

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 20:54:05 EDT

Delegates from across the nation have filled the Convention floor after a busy day at the Denver Convention Center. They attended caucus meetings, where they discussed the issues that most affect American families and communities, such as the affordability and availability of healthcare, quality education for all children, and the struggling economy earlier today.

At the Hispanic caucus meeting, hundreds of Latino Americans gathered to hear from leaders such as Colorado Congressman John Salazar, New Jersery Senator Bob Menendez, and New York Senator Hillary Clinton.

Senator Clinton spoke out against those who seek to divide us and called for Democrats, Independents, and even Republicans to join together because we cannot afford more of the same. "Let there be no mistake about it," Hillary said, "We are united. We are united for change."

Check out the video:

A Message from Maya

Nikki Sutton — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 13:10:11 EDT

Barack Obama's half sister, Maya Soetoro-Ng, wanted to share this message with you:

Together we can bring about change we can believe in.

Women for Obama

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:20:10 EDT

Here in Chicago today, Michelle Obama is introducing Barack's Plan to Support Working Women and Families at a special Women for Obama luncheon.

In 2000, 52% of voters were women; in 2004, we made up 54%; and this year, the percentage will be even higher. That's why Women for Obama and its involvement in the campaign has been and will continue to be critical.

Women for Obama's core principle is simple: it's about women talking to women all over this country, sharing their stories, telling people about Barack, educating one another on the issues, and talking about the world and our place in it.

During the primaries:

-    4,000 women traveled and embedded themselves in states to organize for us.

-    They've hosted 3,500 house parties, and thrown "Girl's Night Out" parties that connect younger women to the campaign.

-    They've made over 200,000 phone calls and written 250,000 post cards to undecided women, especially older women who might not connect to the campaign online.

-    Nearly 300 women-related groups have been started on the website to connect with those with similar interests, from Pennsylvania Women for Obama to Women Business Owners for Obama to Obama's Mamas. And they've taken online organizing offline by hosting specialized events all across the country.

-    And the campaign has an amazing breadth and depth of woman surrogates, from Caroline Kennedy to Jan Schakowsky; from Gayle King to Claire McCaskill, who travel the country and talk with women voters.

Senator Obama wants every American to have ownership in this campaign and we all need to keep reaching women -- especially those who don't know a lot about Barack and who don't know a lot about his opponent. We need to educate them and bring them in to the campaign and get them to vote.

And you can help us do this. Join the Women for Obama community today to help spread Barack's message. And stay tuned for more from this special luncheon with Michelle.

Jim Zogby and Shibley Telhami serve on Obama's Foreign Policy Committee on Arab-Israeli Affairs

Nikki Sutton — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 11:20:01 EDT

Along with other experts on Arab-Israeli Affairs, Arab American scholars Jim Zogby and ShibleyTelhami are playing an important role in advising Senator Obama and others on his foreign policy team.

Jim Zogby is founder and president of the Arab American Institute (AAI), a Washington, D.C.-based organization, which serves as the political and policy research arm of the Arab American community. Since 1985, Dr. Zogby has played a leading role in Arab American efforts to secure political empowerment in the U.S.

Shibley Telhami is the Anwar Sadat Professor for Peace and Development at the University of Maryland and a non-resident senior fellow of the Brookings Institute. Dr. Telhami has served on the Iraq Study Group as a member of the Strategic Environment Working Group and is one of America's foremost experts on the Middle East.

Senator Obama appreciates their involvement and contributions. As President, Barack Obama will seek a variety of perspectives on key foreign policy issues, including and especially the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Make Calls this Memorial Day Weekend

Nikki Sutton — Sat, 24 May 2008 15:22:20 EDT

Grassroots supporters who are home for a long Memorial Day weekend are making calls to encourage Montana voters to participate in One-Stop Early Voting for Barack.

With only three contests remaining, every conversation you have and voter you reach could bring us closer to securing the Democratic nomination. Encouraging supporters to early vote in Montana will give us an edge going into the June 3rd primary.

This weekend, Beverly in North Carolina will be making calls:

I will not have family in for Memorial Day, but I will be contacting as many families as I can by phonebanking to those next two primary states. So, please, take a break from your BBQs, picnics, or whatever and make some calls!

On Thursday, Montana GOTV Director, Jeff Philips, spoke to the National Call Team about how things are going on the ground in Montana and how the calls you make will help impact the upcoming primary:

It only takes a minute to get started. You can listen to call tips and a tutorial, or check out the phonebanking Frequently Asked Questions to help you get started.

Wish voters in Montana a Happy Memorial Day by making calls now.

One Million Calls: The polls are open and it's time to GOTV

Nikki Sutton — Tue, 06 May 2008 09:48:23 EDT

The polls are now open in North Carolina and Indiana.

Over the last few weeks, you’ve had countless conversations with voters from Greensboro, NC to Indianapolis, IN, but now we have less than ten hours left to impact the outcome of these contests.

Last night we asked you to pick up the phone for Barack and be the voice that makes a difference as folks take a final look at what they want out of our next President.

Incredible supporters from across the nation took action and reached tens of thousands of voters, bringing us closer to our goal of one million calls by the time the polls close tonight.

Yet, as we close in on one million calls, we are reminded that more important than the number of calls is the conversations you have and connections you make with voters.

As a caller from Virginia Beach explained:

You can change minds - I think I've gotten about 10 people to switch their support. I know it doesn't sound like much, but we are fighting for each and every district, and every delegate, one vote at a time.

Beverly in Illinois shared:

Many callers I spoke to in Indiana said that they were undecided because they don't have enough information about the candidates. They were happy to hear that I had given them the Indiana Barack Obama website. (IN.BarackObama.com).

So spread the word that anyone can make calls to voters. If you reach only one voter, that's one voter that knows that Barack Obama's campaign cares enough to have a volunteer personally call them with facts and information.

This is our final chance to impact the outcome of these elections.

Help Get Out The Vote in North Carolina and Indiana by making calls now!

Our Chance

Nikki Sutton — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 12:45:06 EDT

The Pennsylvania primary is just days away and we need your help to reach as many voters as possible before Tuesday, April 22nd.

We have always been able to turn to incredible supporters like you when it's down to the wire and it's time to call hundreds of thousands of voters to make sure they get out to vote for Barack!

You have been the heart of this campaign, from Iowa to Texas. You have made this incredible journey possible. Now we need to throw all of our efforts into calling Pennsylvania.

The on-line calling tool is easy and fun to use. We'll provide you with a script to follow and list of names to call. You can listen for call tips and a tutorial on how to get started or check out the call Frequently Asked Questions.

This is our chance to impact the outcome of the Pennsylvania primary by making calls.

Help New Hampshire

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 08:23:02 EST

Welcome to all of our new National Call Team members and thank you to everyone who has made calls to supporters in Texas to invite them to join Barack at the Austin Countdown to Change event. The rally is about a week away and there are still calls to be made, but we just received a request from the crucial early state New Hampshire to help invite Massachusetts volunteers to canvass in New Hampshire this weekend!

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick will be traveling to New Hampshire this weekend to knock on doors and we need to make sure all of our volunteers in Massachusetts know about this great opportunity to make a difference. We need all hands on deck today and tomorrow making calls!

The New Hampshire primary is only two months away and Barack is really beginning to gain momentum there. Lets help that momentum grow!

Thanks for making the difference!

Countdown to Change Calls

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 12:16:04 EST

Thank you to everyone who was able to join the NCT conference call last week. For those of you who were unable to make it, we were joined by the Colorado Director of Operations, Suzanne Gelderman, who shared with us the strategy to win Colorado and how your help making calls to Coloradan voters made a great difference in sharing Barack's message.

Now you have the opportunity to invite voters to hear Barack's message from the man himself! Barack will be in Austin, Texas for a Countdown to Change rally and we need your help spreading the word.

Get a head start on your weekly goal of 100 calls by calling supporters in Texas today.

Thanks for all you do!

PS- Check out Barack on Saturday Night Live!

A New Way to Take Action

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 13:24:58 EDT

In these last 100 days before the first primaries and caucuses we need to come together and step up our efforts for the future of our nation. If we are serious about bringing real change to our country we are going to need everyone to help.

One of the best ways you can make the difference is by joining our new National Call Team.

The National Call Team is a coalition of dedicated supporters that have committed to using the My.BarackObama phone banking tool regularly to reach out to fellow supporters and potential supporters to grow our movement for change.

If you are ready to make the difference in this campaign commit to making calls regularly and sign-up for the National Call Team now!

Thanks for all you can do!

And the winners are...

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:47:30 EDT

Tier 1 (85+ group members): DC for Obama with 116 donations

Tier 2 (30-84 group members): Young Lawyers for Obama with 129 donations

Tier 3 (0-29 group members): Sierra Foothills for Obama with 36 donations (including 12 offline donations)

Congratulations to these groups for their monumental efforts. Our honorable mention groups will also be receiving a special prize in recognition of their great work:

NW Suburbs of Chicago for Obama with 95 donations

Open Letter to Obama with 41 donations

Second Lifers for Obama with 29 donations

All of the groups that participated in the Action Center Group Fundraising Challenge helped demonstrate the amazing things that are possible when a group of dedicated people come together and decide to grow a movement one person at a time. The groups that had the most donations at the end of the day on September 30th in each of the three tiers will have the opportunity to participate in a conference call with Barack scheduled for October.

Thank you again to everyone involved for all of your hard work and dedication.

Thank you!

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:39:30 EDT

Congratulations to everyone for your hard work and determination during the Action Center Group Fundraising Challenge! Groups large and small came together to work as a team and make a difference in this campaign.

With your tremendous help we reached the goal of over half a million donations by more than 350,000 people. Thank you for your contribution to this historic demonstration of grassroots action.

We are tallying up the last minute online donations and adding offline donations that were reported before the conclusion of the Action Center Challenge. The group in each of the three tiers with the most donations at the conclusion of the Challenge will be announced shortly!

Thanks again for all you do and check out the Action Center Updates Group to be the first to hear more about our next Action Center event!

Action Center Challenge

Nikki Sutton — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 13:22:32 EDT

Thank you to everyone who has been involved in the challenge so far, donating and sending invitations to friends and family asking them to join the movement and own a piece of this campaign.

There are only two days left till the end of the 3rd quarter and the end of the Action Center Group Fundraising Challenge! And the competition is heating up for a chance to join Barack in a conference call! Check out who is leading the pack and who is about to pull ahead.

But, no matter how many people have donated to your group so far, this challenge can turn around as soon as your group is ready to take the lead. E-mail your group and get them involved!

There is still time to contribute to a historic movement of people across our country that have deiced that now is the time to take ownership of this campaign and make sure Washington hears loud and clear that our future will be brighter than our past.

Bring your group into the lead!

Countdown to Change House Parties

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:37:09 EDT

Over the weekend, thousands of supporters came together to countdown the days until the early primaries and caucuses in Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire and South Carolina. They raised money and reached out to voters in these critical early states. Thanks to everyone that participated! Here are some stories from Countdown to Change House Parties across the nation:

Sarah hosted an event in Oakland, CA and now she feels invigorated.

As part of the campaign's Countdown to Change program, I hosted a house party today. It was yet another reminder how much I enjoy the people of this campaign. I spend my time, money and energy on this campaign because I believe in Barack as a candidate, but perhaps the biggest bonus is the people I have met along the way.

Melissa went to a Countdown to Change event in Hoboken, NJ and still feels uplifted.

Mike hosted an event in Rockville, MD and was inspired.

I hosted an event last night for Barack as part of the nationwide "Countdown to Change" and it gave me a great pride to take ownership of this amazing campaign.

George of the Woodlands, TX had a great time at Woodlanders for Obama's Countdown to Change event.

Michaele hosted a Countdown to Change House Party in Chandler, AZ and made a difference.

We met our fundraising goal of at least $126. We turned three undecided voter into supporters. We got two more people interested in hosting a house party. We interested one supporter in going to Nevada for weekend. We wrote 10 postcards to Nevada voters. So if you can gather a group of just ten people together, you can make a difference in this campaign.

Check out the Action Center to learn about the next way you can get involved in our campaign for change with the Group Fundraising Challenge. You and your group members could have a chance to participate in a conference call with Barack!

It's Time to Work Together

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 17:25:02 EDT

A record-breaking 250,000 people donated to the campaign during its first two fundraising quarters.

One of the ways we reached this remarkable total was through direct appeals by our grassroots supporters. Many created personal fundraising pages through My.BarackObama.com, which helped empower supporters to reach out to friends and family and track the impact they're having on the campaign.

This week we rolled out Group Fundraising which enables you to work in teams towards a shared goal and take your ownership in this campaign to the next level.

Your group's administrator needs to take the first step in creating the Group Fundraising Page. If you are an administrator of a group, set up a Group Fundraising Page now. If not, contact your group's administrator on My.BarackObama and encourage them to get started.

To learn more about Group Fundraising and to stay up-to-date on how you can make a difference in this election join the Action Center Updates Group.

If we all take this opportunity to reach out to our friends and family we can break even more records and prove that it's the American people that are the strongest interest group in this country.

Group Fundraising

Nikki Sutton — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 13:53:51 EDT

Every group now has the ability to create a group fundraising page!

As a group you're now able to set a fundraising goal and work together to achieve it. You create a customized donation page that tracks the number of donors and dollars your group has raised. Group members can then easily send emails to friends and family to invite them to give to the customized group campaign.

The amount your group raises isn't as important as the process of bringing another donor into the campaign. You own a piece of this campaign. Now you can more easily reach out to your own network of friends and family to build this movement.

To get started, your group administrator needs to create a group fundraising page and set a goal. The admin can find the option to create the campaign on your group page. After the page is completed, everyone in the group can see the group fundraising icon on the group page and can get started right away inviting friends and family to join the movement by contributing.

In the first two fundraising quarters of this campaign, a record breaking 250,000 people donated to the campaign. If we all take this opportunity to reach out to our friends and family we can break even more records and prove that it's the American people that are the strongest interest group and anything is possible when they stand up together.

Families United for Barack

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 17:08:05 EDT

There is something special happening in our country right now. Not only are complete strangers coming together in support of Barack, strengthening the bonds of their communities, but families are also coming together to share their support.

Last week I talked with Giancarlo who recently went to see Barack speak in Miami with his grandmother, his mother, and his sister.

My mom, Madelaine, a social worker for nearly 30 years, was a Bush supporter in 2000 and 2004. She is now supporting Barack Obama. [And] my grandmother, Adelaida, has never supported a Democrat since Bob Graham ran for US Senate in the 1980's.

Three generations are united in their support.

Here are some other families that are sharing their support for Barack:

Jamie from Norwich, VT took her 11-year-old son, Andy, to an Ice Cream Social in New Hampshire to meet Barack.

Tatsue of Pueblo, CO walked with her daughter in the Fiesta Day Parade wearing Obama shirts and pins.

Bring your family and friends together on September 15th for a Countdown to Change House Party to help support the early states.

Fired Up!

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 19:14:31 EDT

This weekend supporters across the country proved that they are ready for change by firing up their grills and holding Barbecue for Barack events while reaching out to members of their community and signing up new supporters.

In Los Lunas, New Mexico, Scott held a barbecue, with the help of host Nancy, in his front yard so neighbors could wander over. He also distributed flyers up and down his block to let the neighbors know about the event. It was a tremendous success! Over 50 people showed up to show their support, including 20 people that are new to the movement.

I talked to host Nancy and she described the event as, “A really positive experience."

When Nancy was buying food for the event someone approached her because of her Obama shirt. She gave him a flyer to the event and he ended up coming to the barbecue. He is an artist and now they are thinking of having artists donate pieces for a fundraiser.

The diverse group was comprised of old and young coming together including 12 High School students who joined their teacher, Steven, who offered the students extra credit for experiencing and engaging with grassroots political organizing.

In Los Lunas they are even already preparing for the next Action Center event, Count Down for Change.

Your Barbecues

Nikki Sutton — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:08:04 EDT

This weekend friends, family, neighbors and colleagues will come together for the first event of the Action Center, Barbecue for Barack. I have talked with many of the hosts and everyone is doing something a little bit different, but all have the same goal of signing up at least 5 new supporters to grow the movement.

In Andalusia, Alabama Mark will be grilling a “recently harvested wild hog” and attendees will not only be supporting Obama, but will also be helping the environment by taking home an “Obama-Tree” provided by Mark & Katia to plant in their yards.

Some events will be just a few people meeting at a local barbecue restaurant like in Suntree, Florida. Other groups are shooting for a big crowd like in South Pasadena, California where Ellin is expecting over 50 people for her backyard barbecue.

In North Hollywood, CA supporters canvassed their neighborhood and while they were at it encouraged people to come out to their Barbecue for Barack at North Hollywood Park.

Thanks to everyone who is getting involved in our first Action Center event and make sure to keep up the great work with our second event: host a Countdown to Change Party on September 15th. This weekend we have Barbecues for Barack in over 25 states, for the next event lets make sure we are working for change in all 50!

No Signs of Slowing Down

Nikki Sutton — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 13:27:04 EDT

Some say that August is a slow month for politics. But, the grassroots have showed no signs of slowing down.

This Saturday supporters across the nation, from Alna, Maine to Honolulu, Hawaii are Barbecuing for Barack and reaching out to their communities to bring more people into our movement for change. Visit the Action Center to find a Barbecue for Barack near you!

Here are some other ways supporters are keeping the movement going:

Michelle from Tilton, NH marched in a parade to show her support.

California’s Congressional District 32 held their first meeting.

Jannae and her younger sister from Tama, IA volunteered.

Deborah saw Barack speak in Nashua, NH.

Jennifer from Columbus, OH headed to Camp Obama.

Ready to share what you’re doing to keep the movement growing? Go to my.barackobama.com and check out Sam’s earlier post for tips for blogging about your experience.

Birthday Celebrations

Nikki Sutton — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 17:15:11 EDT

Over the weekend supporters all over the country, from Hueytown, AL to Oakland, CA, came together to celebrate Barack's 46th birthday.

Obama Dallas organized a Blow Out Hunger food drive for the North Texas Food Bank in honor of Barack's birthday. Thus far, over $1,200 has been raised.

In Washington, supporters at the University Place Festival had a booth where they shared birthday cake and signed a big birthday card for Barack.

Some supporters went canvassing.

We all know the old saying, "Neither rain nor sleet nor snow……" Well, rain certainly didn't stop the volunteers. In fact, rain seemed to energize our group as it was steadily raining through most of our canvassing. Our area to canvas was a republican/independent area. It was a little more difficult to obtain the signed supporter cards, however, our group obtained 3 signed cards. We knocked on 112 doors and spoke to 52 people.

Other supporters recorded birthday wishes.

And some just got together to eat cake!

Thanks to everyone who helped celebrate!