Xavier Lopez-Ayala's Blog

THANK YOU MINNESOTA!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 22:45:31 EST

The networks have called the first races of the night, projecting that Barack Obama will win Minnesota and its ten electoral votes. Thank you Minnesota!

Thank you as well to all of our grassroots supporters in Vermont, many of whom have been working towards this moment for nearly two years now - check out a photo slideshow of Barack's campaign for change in Minnesota below:

Our moment is now - VOTE!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:10:27 EST

At 7:00 AM CST this morning, polls opened in Minnesota. Don't know where to vote? Click here to find your polling location. All polling places close at 8:00 p.m. If you are in line at your polling place between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m., you must be allowed to vote.

To vote in Minnesota, you must:

be at least 18 years old
have resided in Minnesota for at least 20 days immediately preceding Election Day
be a citizen of the United States
live in the precinct in which you are voting

If you aren't registered to vote yet, that's not a problem. Minnesota allows you to register and vote at the polls on Election Day. Here's what you need:

A MN driver's license, MN state ID card, or tribal ID with your photo, name, current address, and signature.

A photo ID plus a current utility bill in your name.
Acceptable Photo IDs: MN driver's license or ID (with old address--not expired), Tribal ID without an address, U.S. passport, U.S. military ID, MN student ID.
Utility Bills (due within 30 days of November 4th): Gas, electric, solid waste, sewer, phone (any kind: land line, cell, VOIP), TV (cable, satellite), Internet, rent statement with itemized utilities, current student fee statement.

If you don't have any of these things, that's okay! You just need a voucher -- someone registered to vote in your precinct who can swear that you live there.

Don't forget to remind all your friends and family to vote today!

Cast your vote today!

How much is your vote worth?

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:41:03 EST

From social networking to text messaging, young people have changed the way political campaigns are run in the United States.

And, today, we have a chance to change the nation.

But only if we vote.

Check out this video of Kal Penn, the star of the Harold & Kumar movies, talking to students at the U about the power of the youth vote, and then find your polling place and vote!

Now the big question: if your attention is worth billions of dollars, how much power does your vote have?

Go to www.VoteForChange.com to find your polling place.

Iron Rangers Vote for Obama

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:44:33 EST

We've built the largest grassroots operation in Minnesota's history, but we still need your help in these next few hours.

Doorknocking and phonebanking shifts will be running throughout the day -- it's not too late to find a staging area near you. Just enter your zip code and we'll tell you exactly where we need your help.

All across the country people are coming together for change. People of all ages and backgrounds got back to the basics of grassroots organizing to do everything possible to help elect Barack Obama president.

Check out this video of folks up on the Iron Range discussing why they're voting for Barack Obama today.

Have you voted?

Find out your polling place now.

And if you have an hour or three today, volunteer to get out the vote.

Simply enter your zip code and we'll tell you where and when you're needed most.

IMPORTANT: New, Alternative Phone Number to Report Problems

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:07:34 EST

ATTENTION:

The Minnesota Campaign for Change is asking that any voters who have questions about voting or who want to report problems or issues when voting, to call 651-292-1158

These calls will go directly to a Call Center, where people are standing by to answer logistical questions ("Where is my polling location?") as well as more complicated, legal or voting-related questions.

Kids for Obama Canvass in South Minneapolis

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:39:38 EST

Kids for Obama Canvass in South Minneapolis

One day to change the world.

Now is the time to do what we've been working for: vote for Barack Obama for president.

Yesterday, a group of Kids for Obama canvassed their neighborhood in South Minneapolis:

Holding handmade signs inscribed with things such as purple scribbles, “dinosaurs for Obama,” and “vote for these tiny futures” a group of seriously vociferous elementary-school-aged kids marched down 38th Street in South Minneapolis.

This election is so important, and we all have to do our part.

Go to VoteforChange.com right now and find your polling location.

If you have an hour, or three, or an entire day to help, please volunteer at your local Action Center or making phone calls -- after voting, of course.

Everything comes down to today -- we can't let up now. Sign up to volunteer.

Polls Open in Minnesota!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:00:32 EST

To vote in Minnesota, you must:

be at least 18 years old
have resided in Minnesota for at least 20 days immediately preceding Election Day
be a citizen of the United States
live in the precinct in which you are voting

If you aren't registered to vote yet, that's not a problem. Minnesota allows you to register and vote at the polls on Election Day. Here's what you need:

A MN driver's license, MN state ID card, or tribal ID with your photo, name, current address, and signature.

A photo ID plus a current utility bill in your name.
Acceptable Photo IDs: MN driver's license or ID (with old address--not expired), Tribal ID without an address, U.S. passport, U.S. military ID, MN student ID.
Utility Bills (due within 30 days of November 4th): Gas, electric, solid waste, sewer, phone (any kind: land line, cell, VOIP), TV (cable, satellite), Internet, rent statement with itemized utilities, current student fee statement.

If you don't have any of these things, that's okay! You just need a voucher -- someone registered to vote in your precinct who can swear that you live there.

Don't forget to remind all your friends and family to vote today!

Midnight Madness -- 1 day to Change

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:27:07 EST

Tonight, as today's tallies are being calculated and tomorrow's walk packets are being assembled, volunteers are out walking in strong Democratic neighborhoods leaving voting information on doorsteps and car windows.

It's called Midnight Madness, and it's an important part of our strategy to win tomorrow.

Check out some of the pictures from the Midnight Madness rally with Al Franken in St. Paul:

Across Minnesota today, hundreds of thousands of calls were made and even more doors were knocked, because tens of thousands of everyday Minnesotans volunteered and shared crucial voting infromation with Obama supporters in their community.

Tomorrow, we'll vote. But that's not going to be enough. We're going to need your help to get others to the polls.

No matter where you live, you can make phone calls, knock on doors, talk to your family & friends, and take the day off so you can volunteer. We need to be at full speed as we head through the finish line.

Let's make history tomorrow.

VIDEO: All roads lead to Hopkins.. and Victory.. and Change

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 17:21:07 EST

Volunteers at the "Get Out the Vote" Action Center in Hopkins made a short video to encourage local supporters to come on in and volunteer.

If you're watching any of the down-ticket races in Minnesota, an amazing thing is happening. Some areas, like Hopkins, that started off a deep red, have steadily gone in the last few months from red to pink to purple, and in the last few days, are even starting to look a little blue.

Check out their video, and help out for a few hours tonight or tomorrow to get Barack and the other DFL candidates elected tomorrow!

So... have you made plans for tonight yet?

There's still time help us Get Out The Vote and we still need volunteers going door to door in their neighborhoods to let Obama supporters know where to vote. Go to your local Action Center for a few hours after work today or make phone calls from home.

You can help transform the political landscape here in Minnesota.

Get out the vote.

Unregistered? Not a problem!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 15:40:12 EST

If you're a Minnesotan and haven't registered to vote yet, don't worry. You can register tomorrow at the polls and cast your vote for Barack & Joe!
... here's what you need:

A MN driver's license, MN state ID card, or tribal ID with your photo, name, current address, and signature.

A photo ID plus a current utility bill in your name.
Acceptable Photo IDs: MN driver's license or ID (with old address--not expired), Tribal ID without an address, U.S. passport, U.S. military ID, MN student ID.
Utility Bills (due within 30 days of November 4th): Gas, electric, solid waste, sewer, phone (any kind: land line, cell, VOIP), TV (cable, satellite), Internet, rent statement with itemized utilities, current student fee statement.

If you don't have any of these things, that's okay! You just need a voucher -- someone registered to vote inyour precinct who can swear that you live there.

Questions? Check out the Minnesota Voter Rights page at http://MN.BarackObama.com/KnowYourRightsMN.

Take the day

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 15:38:02 EST

Everything that we've worked for comes down to tomorrow. What are you doing?

Take the day off for Barack.

Ask your boss. Ask your professor.

Take some advice from Matthew Broderick and take the day off...

"This is OUR democracy"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 14:06:54 EST

Yolanda in St. Cloud sent this message to her friends on the St. Cloud my.barackobama group:

OK Friends!

This is it! Here's what you can do to take us strong to the finish line for Barack.

Today, Monday, November 3 you can talk to and remind everyone you know to VOTE. Make sure they know where their polling place is and have a ride to get there. You can also go to your local Dem office and offer to volunteer (phone banking or door knocking!).

Here's how to find your polling place: http://www.voteforchange.com/

This is it! This is the moment we've been waiting for more than 18 months. Don't get weary on us now!

Your hard work makes a difference. This is OUR DEMOCRACY and OUR WORK to do.

PLEASE DO YOUR PART! Let's make history.

Make History with Igor, The World's Largest Obama Supporter

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 13:32:53 EST

Tomorrow, we have an opportunity to make history.

Tomorrow, we have a chance to take back our country and move it towards a better day.

Tomorrow, we can choose hope over fear, and, together, change thiscountry and the world.

None of that can happen if we don't secure Minnesota's 10 electoral votes for Barack.

From day one, we've said that Minnesota is a "must-win" state, and it's up to us to make sure its squarely in Barack's column tomorrow night when the polls close.

There are over one hundred "Get Out the Vote" Action Centers in every corner of the state--places where folks can go today and tomorrow to help us reach out to every single Obama supporter in the state to make sure they know where and how to vote.

Nothing's set in stone, and everything we've worked for up to now comes down to whether we can get all of our supporters to the polls tomorrow. Will you help make sure Barack wins Minneosta, and this general election?

This is an "all hands on deck" moment for America, and, to win, we need everyone to get involved.

Igor, who lives in Rochester, is the world's largest Obama supporter. Check out this video and sign up to help.

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We still have thousands of volunteer shifts to finish across Minnesota Find out how you can help the campaign and make history today.

"It's Up to You"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:31:43 EST

The front pages of the Pioneer Press and the St. Cloud Times say it all--who wins and who loses tomorrow is up to you.

The weekend has ended, but our Get Out The Vote effort is not stopping. Today is the last day before the polls open.

We cannot let up now.

If you have to work today, make some phone calls during lunch and when you get home tonight. If you can take the day off, go to your "Get Out the Vote" Action Center and sign up for a GOTV shift.

We also need people working all day Tuesday to help drive voters to the polls, make phone calls to tell people where to vote, and to remind everyone to get to the polls and cast their ballot.

Whoever gets the most people to show up at the polls tomorrow will be the next president. Let's make sure it's Barack.

The Associated Press on GOTV in Minnesota

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:38:39 EST

From the AP:

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - One day before Election Day, political candidates in Minnesota are focusing on getting their supporters to turn out to vote.

Campaign volunteers had a busy weekend of doorknocking and dropping off campaign brochures in hopes of reaching just a few more voters.

At John McCain's Minnesota headquarters, volunteers have been calling supporters to remind them to vote on Tuesday. The campaign has been contacting voters across the state but is putting some extra effort into the Twin Cities area and Rochester.

Officials for Barack Obama's Minnesota campaign say their get-out-the-vote efforts are twice the size of the Kerry-Edwards campaign in 2004. The campaign is contacting 600,000 core Democratic supporters as well as about 500,000 new or sporadic voters.

For everyone who has already been a part of the unprecedented effort in this weekend, either on the ground or by making calls from home, get some rest. We still have a lot of work to do.

Polls close tomorrow....

Countdown to Election Day

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 19:33:33 EST

Today marked the second day of our four-day "Get Out the Vote" drive -- the final, all-out effort to get as many voters to the polls as possible. Volunteers are still dialing away in Action Centers across the state, and canvassers are still out walking in their neighborhoods to make sure every Obama supporter knows where to vote.

After 22 months, it comes down to this -- ordinary people versus attack ads and robocalls, change versus the status quo, hope versus fear.

Can you help us Get Out the Vote?

There are only 2 days left to Get Out The Vote – be part of our movement now.

This election is about the future

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 15:03:28 EST

Winning on Tuesday is going to take all kinds of people, not just coming to rallies but going to the polls. Poeple are so fed up with the way things are, but there is something you can do.

Across Minnesota, folks like Joe are volunteering to help "get out the vote" and ensure that Barack is elected on Tuesday.

As a father, Joe understands the choice Americans have in this election, a choice that's going to decide the kind of America his son, Emerson, grows up in.

The choice in this election is clear, and on everything from health care, to education, to the war in Iraq, John McCain is offering another eight years of the same failed policies of the last eight.

Who wins and who loses on Tuesday will decide the future for kids like Emerson across the country. Joe's doing his part to make sure the right candidates win... are you?

There are plenty of ways to get involved with the campaign and make a difference on November 4. Stay-at-home parents can use the Neighbor to Neighbor tool to make calls from home.

VIDEO: "If I didn't do something and sat idly by... I would feel regret for the rest of my life"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 14:50:58 EST

Jump in with both feet.

We still have thousands of volunteer shifts to fill across Minnesota, from knocking doors to making phone calls, organizing lit drops and processing data. No matter where you live, if you can commit to one or more shift between now and the close of polls on the Election Day, sign up now. Just enter your zip code and we'll show you when and where you're needed most.

Tomorrow we start again.

Amy Klobuchar: "Last chance in Minnesota"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 13:22:32 EST

U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar sent this email to Minnesotans late last night...

Friend--

Opportunities to bring real change don't come around too often.

But we have one right now -- only for the next 3 days.

During these next 72 hours, we have a small window to volunteer our time to help get out the vote for Barack and DFLers up and down the ticket.

That window is closing as I write this, and the consequences of sitting back now and relaxing are unacceptable. Minnesota families can't afford to let John McCain use the Bush economic playbook for another four years.

I was recently in the Minneapolis Campaign for Change office, helping to make sure Minnesotans get to the polls. And while I was there, I recorded a special message for you.

Watch the video and sign up to fill a volunteer shift anytime from now until Election Day.

Since the beginning of this campaign, Barack has put his faith in the American people. He was convinced that "ordinary people working together could do extraordinary things," and he was right.

In order to win, we have to have the best get out the vote operation in Minnesota history. Our goal is to fill at least 30,000 volunteer shifts by Election Day, November 4th.

That's a lot, but we have to get there -- we've got to win Minnesota for Barack.

Change begins right here, from the ground up, with you. Please watch the video, and then sign up to help get out the vote:

http://mn.barackobama.com/gotvforchangeMN

We've accomplished too much not to see this thing through to the end.

Thanks for everything you've done,

Amy Klobuchar
United States Senator

Picture Post: GOTV Minnesota! Day 1

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 21:06:58 EDT

Get Out The Vote starts today and campaign for change staff and volunteers are on the ground working hard. Our offices are ready for volunteers, the phonebanks are set up and the doors are ready to be knocked.

What are you doing today? Share your plans with us, but most importantly, if you don't have plans - make them. The next 72 hours are crucial and we need every person working and organizing

That's how this election is going to be won.

Brick by brick.

Block by block.

Let's show everyone what the power of a grassroots movement can do.

Beastie Boys "Get Out the Vote" at Augsburg College

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 20:36:54 EDT

Earlier this afternoon, the Beastie Boys returned to Minneapolis after 10 long years, for a Get Out the Vote rally at Augsburg College. The group was joined by Jurassic Park star Laura Dern.

In an interview with City Pages, the Beastie Boys explained what brought them to Minnesota:

We found ourselves in the position where we're asking, as many are, 'Okay, so how can we do everything in our power that we don't see this election—like our prior two—end up being decided by a relatively small margin of votes and states?' We think [Obama's message] contains something that's so sorely missing from the last eight years of the Bush administration, where everything is secret; you don't need to know anything even if you want to. We are in two wars and an economic crisis, our welfare money is about to come to an end, healthcare is a mess, and the future of our children is at stake—this is such a crucial election.

Check out the pictures from the event below:

TODAY: Howard Dean in Minnesota

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 15:19:30 EDT

There are just three days left before Election Day and the campaign's Get Out the Vote effort is running on all cylinders to ensure that Barack is elected on November 4th.

Howard Dean is in Minnesota to help rally the troops and encourage supporters to volunteer.

Here are the details:

Saturday, November 1:

ST CLOUD:
Get Out The Vote Rally for Change with Gov. Howard Dean
FEATURING:          El Tinklenberg, Minnesota Senator Assistant Majority Leader Tarryl Clark and Thomasin Frankin

Campaign For Change Office
904 West St. Germain Street
St. Cloud, MN
5PM

MINNEAPOLIS
Get Out The Vote Concert for Change With Howard Dean, Martin Zellar, White Light Riot, and the Radiators
FEATURING:          Mayor RT Rybak, Thomasin Frankin, and Rep. Keith Ellison

Trocaderos Nightclub & Restaurant
107 3rd Avenue North
Minneapolis, MN
8PM

Collin Peterson: "Obama: A no-brainer for agriculture"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 15:01:18 EDT

U.S. Representative Collin Peterson writes in the Fergus Falls Daily Journal:

I have the distinct privilege of representing some of our country’s hardest working farmers and agricultural workers, and serving as Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture where we shaped the 2008 Farm Bill. As many of you know, I feel strongly about the importance of agriculture to this country. Farmers are part of the backbone of this country, responsible for our food security, and increasingly important contributors to our drive towards energy independence.
One thing I know for sure is that in order for our agricultural economy to be strong we’re going to need a President that we can work with. We need a President who understands the importance of federal agriculture programs, a President who will share our priorities and work with us to accomplish them.
I’ve taken time to study the records of both candidates and where the interests of Minnesota and American agriculture are concerned the only candidate who has supported agriculture is Senator Barack Obama. He’s not a perfect candidate – no one is – but at the most fundamental level, Barack Obama has shown me that he understands agriculture, appreciates its critical role in this country, and will work with farmers.
I cannot say the same of his opponent, Senator John McCain, who recently proposed abolishing the farm safety net and tax credits for renewable energy. Senator McCain has a long record of leading the charge against agriculture research, against biofuels, and against critical programs for sugar and dairy producers.
On all of the key issues for farmers and Minnesota agriculture, from preserving the farm safety net to developing renewable energy and making essential infrastructure improvements that are important to farmers, Senator Obama has been on the side of our nation’s farmers while Senator McCain has been against them.
Senator Obama has represented a key farm state and has maintained an open door to farmers from Illinois. He supported the 2008 Farm Bill, which will provide certainty and stability to producers and the entire farm sector, invest billions of dollars in conservation, and feed tens of millions of low-income families.
On the other hand, Senator McCain opposed the Farm Bill and said he would have vetoed it, just like President Bush did. This position has been criticized by leaders of numerous groups, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, and the National Association of Wheat Growers. It indicates to me that Senator McCain is badly out of touch with how agriculture really works in our country.
One of the most promising elements in our agricultural economy is the ongoing development of biofuels and other renewable energy sources. Increasing production and use of biofuels and other sources of alternative energy is decreasing our reliance on imported oil, injecting billions of dollars of capital into rural economies, and enhancing our local economies. The industry has grown from a combination of the entrepreneurial spirit and creative innovation found in American agriculture and the successful federal programs that helped lay the foundation for broader investment and growth.
Senator Obama strongly understands and supports these “ag-focused” energy development programs and even introduced legislation that created the first mandate for the production of renewable sources of diesel fuel. His leadership on renewable energy earned Senator Obama a Golden Triangle Award from the National Farmers Union and endorsements from a number of Democratic and Republican former Presidents of the National Corn Growers.
Senator McCain, on the other hand, has one of the worst records in Congress on renewable fuels. He has repeatedly opposed and voted against all of the key biofuels programs and even said, “Ethanol has absolutely under no circumstances any value whatsoever.”
Finally, I’ve been impressed by the fact that Senator Obama has put members of his campaign team on the ground throughout rural American and has had them listening to what rural voters have been telling them. From what I can see he is an able leader who is committed to working with us for the good of agriculture – in Minnesota and throughout the nation -- and the rural communities who depend on it.
I believe that anyone who understands the economic importance of agriculture – and farmers in particular – should support Barack Obama.

Obama-Biden Halloween Diarama

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 11:53:18 EDT

Carla in Minneapolis shared this photo of the Obama-Biden Halloween diarama she set up last night in front of her house:

What are you doing today? Share your plans with us, but most importantly, if you don't have plans - make them. The next 72 hours are crucial and we need every person working and organizing. Let's show everyone what the power of a grassroots movement can do.

Volunteer near you

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 10:01:32 EDT

This election will be won or lost on the ground. It will be won or lost in the four days that we spend Getting Out The Vote.

Here's what the Pioneer Press wrote about the GOTV efort in Minnesota:

The Obama campaign will try to turn out more than 1 million Minnesota supporters that it has identified since June, said Jeff Blodgett, Obama's Minnesota campaign director.

The main target will be 500,000 sporadic and first-time voters, Blodgett said. The Obama campaign and the DFL are organizing volunteers to knock on each of those voters' doors four times on or before Election Day.

Starting Saturday, the campaign plans to put 10,000 volunteers on the streets statewide every day through Tuesday.

In addition, Blodgett said, the Obama campaign plans to phone 600,000 other Democratic voters who routinely vote or live in remote areas that are hard to reach on foot and urge them to vote. Other volunteers will go door to door in strong Democratic precincts that traditionally have low voter turnouts. The campaign also will send text messages to more than 13,000 mainly young voters.

The Obama campaign, which has 37 campaign offices around the state, started organizing its ground game in July, he said. Volunteers phoned registered voters to identify Obama supporters and persuade undecided voters to back the Democratic nominee.

We can bring to change Minnesota -- and America, but we need your help.

We have been campaigning, organizing and working for over 20 months. And now it comes down to this weekend and what we do - or don't do - to get out the vote.

Sign up to volunteer now. You can find events that are close to you - phonebanks, canvasses, road trips, and more - and help in the way you are most needed.

This comes down to us. This is it. We can't look back and wish we had done more. We can't slow down or sit on the sidelines. We have to work harder each day then we did the day before.

We can do it. And we can win.

Vote Absentee Today, Volunteer on Election Day!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 08:41:34 EDT

Voting absentee frees you up to volunteer with the campaign on Election Day. Vote absentee and volunteer on Election Day.

You may vote by absentee ballot for any one of the following reasons:

Absence from your precinct on Election Day
Illness or disability
Religious discipline or religious holiday
Serving as an election judge in another precinct

The city of Minneapolis is offering expanded hours for absentee voting today, Nov. 1. The city's Elections Office at City Hall, 350 5th St. S., will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (enter from the 4th Street door). Also, Minneapolis 311 will be operating today from 9 a,m, to 5 p.m.

In addition to casting an absentee ballot in person at your elections office, you can cast it by mail, but it must arrive by 3 p.m. on Election Day at the office that issued it.

TOMORROW: Mike D., Ad-Rock and MCA of the Beastie Boys to Get Out The Vote for Obama and Franken at Augsburg College

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 21:21:17 EDT

In an effort to mobilize an unprecedented turnout among first time and youth voters, Mike D., Ad-Rock and MCA of the Beastie Boys will help Get Out The Vote for Barack in Minnesota. They will host a Canvass for Change kick off at Augsburg College in Minneapolis.

Here are the details:

GOTV Canvass Kickoff w/ Adam Yauch, Adam Hrovitz, & Michael Diamond of the Beastie Boys
Oren Gateway Center, Augsburg College
Minneapolis, MN
3:30 PM

We’ve got four more days to make a difference. So take some time this weekend to volunteer.

If we don’t each do our part, the next four years could be scarier than anything you see tonight.

Weekend for Change

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 20:40:15 EDT

This is it. Everything we've done comes down to these last four days.

It is more crucial than ever that we step up.

Months of campaigning, the success of crucial issues, and a future full of promise all depend on these last four days. What we are able to do in this short time determines our success.

We need you on the ground, going door to door, making calls, and doing everything possible to get people out to vote. Whatever time you have is essential. The task is straightforward, but the goal could not be more important.

Please sign up for a shift this weekend. There are plenty of opportunities available in every zip code.

Sign up to get involved this weekend.

This campaign needs all of us for this final stretch. We have an outstanding organization in place. Now we each need to do our part, and do whatever we can, to push this campaign over the top and elect Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America.

TOMORROW: Howard Dean to Get Out the Vote for Obama, Franken

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 12:05:36 EDT

There are just four days left before Election Day and the campaign's Get Out the Vote effort is running on all cylinders to ensure that Barack is elected on November 4th.

Tomorrow, Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean will make stops in St. Cloud and Minneapolis to rally supporters to "Get Out the Vote" over the next few days.

Governor Dean will campaign for Barack Obama, Al Franken, Elwyn Tinklenberg and other DFL candidates. He’ll appear alongside Tinklenberg, state Senate Assistant Majority Leader Tarryl Clark, Thomasin Frankin, Mayor RT Rybak, and Rep. Keith Ellison.

Here are the details:

Saturday, November 1:

ST CLOUD:
Get Out The Vote Rally for Change with Gov. Howard Dean
FEATURING:          El Tinklenberg, Minnesota Senator Assistant Majority Leader Tarryl Clark and Thomasin Frankin

Campaign For Change Office
904 West St. Germain Street
St. Cloud, MN
5PM

MINNEAPOLIS
Get Out The Vote Concert for Change With Howard Dean, Martin Zellar, White Light Riot, and the Radiators
FEATURING:          Mayor RT Rybak, Thomasin Frankin, and Rep. Keith Ellison

Trocaderos Nightclub & Restaurant
107 3rd Avenue North
Minneapolis, MN
8PM

Governor Dean knows that in 2000 and 2004 the Republican turn-out machine helped deliver the presidency to George Bush, twice. Over the last 21 months, grassroots supporters across Minnesota -- many of whom had never been involved in politics before -- have built an organization to match. In four days, we'll know who wins.

But the one thing we do know is that you can't win if you don't fight. This weekend is your chance to be part of that fight.

The clock starts this weekend.

Polls close in four days.

President Clinton Visits Minnesota to "Get Out the Vote"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:42:35 EDT

A packed house at the Minneapolis Convention Center is clearing out right now. Around 4000 Minnesotans showed up to hear Bill Clinton ask them to work hard over the next five days to elect Barack Obama and U.S. Senate candidate Al Franken.

President Bill Clinton:

"The change we need starts with electing Barack Obama president of the United States. But it's not complete unless Barack has a Senate he can rely on to work with him, instead of just blocking his agenda -- and that means we need to pull together and elect Al Franken. Al understands that you grow the economy by investing in the middle class and putting working people first. And he'll work with President Obama to make that happen."

Al Franken:

"It is an honor to have President Clinton joining us today. Under his administration, we created jobs because our government understood that the middle class is the engine of our economy. With Barack Obama in the White House, I'll work with Amy Klobuchar in the Senate to make sure that we get back to focusing on the middle class again."

Obama's Minnesota state director, Jeff Blodgett:

"Under President Clinton, our nation lived through a time of great economic prosperity. But the last eight years has seen failed economic policies and the onset of an economic crisis. With a President Barack Obama and a Senator Al Franken, we'll finally have the steady leadership we need to get a handle on this crisis, strengthen the middle class and cut taxes for 95 percent of working families and 98 percent of small businesses."

There was a sense of urgency in the air tonight, as DFL elected officials, including Senator Amy Klobuchar, State Senator Tarryl Clark, Mayors Chris Coleman and RT Rybak, and former Vice-President Walter Mondale told the crowd in their own way: "This is it."

None of the hard work put in by grassroots supporters, volunteers, and organizers will matter if we don't Get Out The Vote.

If people don't get people to the polls on Tuesday then we will lose.

Don't wake up on November 5th wishing you had done more. Find an event near you and sign up to volunteer today.

Jeff Blodgett: VIDEO: Let's Win This for Barack

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:55:57 EDT

This afternoon, Jeff Blodgett, the Obama campaign's Minnesota state director, sent out an email asking folks to sign up to help win this election for Barack...

Friend --

We have 5 days left to get out the vote for Barack and bring about the change we need.

Over the last 21 months, supporters like you have built this campaign from the ground up -- now it's up to you whether we win or lose.

Yesterday, I recorded a video about our get out the vote effort, what we've already accomplished, and what's ahead of us in these last 5 days.

Watch the video and sign up for a get out the vote shift in the days leading up to November 4th

To meet our GOTV goals, we'll need to fill over 50,000 door-knocking shifts in the final four days, including 30,000 on Election Day alone.

By Friday at midnight, supporters like you need to fill every last slot.

Imagine how you'll feel if you wake up on November 5th -- facing four more years of the same failed Bush-McCain economic policies -- and realize that you didn't do all you could to make sure Barack is the next president.

This is our last chance to take ownership of the political process and make the change this country needs.

Sign up for a get out the vote shift and take the final steps toward making the change we've worked for from the beginning:

http://mn.barackobama.com/mnletswinthis

Thanks for everything you do these last 5 days,

Jeff

Jeff Blodgett
Minnesota State Director
Obama for America

TONIGHT: Get Out the Vote Rally with Bill Clinton

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:29:45 EDT

Tonight, please join President Bill Clinton with special guests U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Senate Candidate Al Franken in Minneapolis, where they will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need.

Five Days to Change Rally
with President Bill Clinton
and Special Guests Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken

Minneapolis Convention Center
Exhibit Hall A
1301 2nd Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN

Thursday, October 30th
Doors Open: 7:00 p.m.

http://mn.barackobama.com/MinneapolisChange

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

For security reasons, do not bring bags and please limit personal items. No signs, banners, or umbrellas permitted.

Packetland

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:34:07 EDT

Ben Goldfarb, the GOTV Coordinator, for the DFL's coordinated campaign, sent out this email below encouraging folks to sign up to help Get Out the Vote for change:

Dear Friend,

There's a place we call Packetland -- a giant warehouse basement in St. Paul where volunteers and organizers are hard at work around the clock assembling Get-Out-The-Vote packets for the doorknockers and phonebankers whose efforts will push Al over the top and win this race.

We're going to knock on 2.8 million doors -- and make another 1.5 million calls -- before this thing is over. And that means we're going to need your help.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR GOTV TODAY!

But it's a two way street, and to help you get fired up to help Al and Barack, President Clinton and the Obama campaign are holding a huge rally at the Minneapolis Convention Center (of course, Al will be there as well) TONIGHT! Doors open at 7:00, and we'd love to see you there!

But before you come out, please make a commitment to change by going to www.gotvforchange.com right now and signing up to take one of these packets we're assembling and talk to some voters about bringing Minnesota the change we need.

Our organizers and volunteers in Packetland are laying the foundation for the biggest grassroots push this state has even seen, President Clinton is coming in to get us all energized, but we can't do it without you! It's going to take 77,000 volunteers, working together, to retire Norm Coleman from the U.S. Senate. Can we count on you to be one of them?

Please, click here and sign up today.

Thanks for all you do,
Ben Goldfarb

Undecided? Read the Obama-Biden Plan for America

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:02:38 EDT

There is a lot at stake in this election. Next Tuesday, voters will determine whether or not the country moves forward in a new direction.

Over the past 21 months Barack has been laying out his plan for change. His plan to unite America and restore trust in government.

Whether it is helping students afford college, rebuilding our cities, helping rural families or making sure women get equal pay for equal work, Barack cares about bringing people together to solve the problems this country is facing.

Barack and Joe believe that leaders and government must be open and transparent to the American people. Which is why they have clearly laid out and brought together their proposals for the fundamental issues that Americans care about.

The Blueprint for Change booklet lays out Barack and Joe's plans for America. It includes detailed policies for the economy, ethics, health care, seniors, education, energy, fiscal discipline, rural, women, immigration, poverty, service, civil rights, national security and veterans.

Download and read the Blueprint for Change booklet today. Take time to look at the issues that are important to you and find out where Barack and Joe stand.

Letters from the Field: "Past 8 years of Republican rule"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 09:54:37 EDT

Dennis from Akeley writes to the Park Rapids Enterprise:

The past 8 years of Republican rule has resulted in:

-Loss of American Jobs. The U.S.-China trade deficit has resulted in the loss of an estimated 2.3 million U.S. jobs.

-Multibillion dollar profits for oil companies. A 100 percent increase in your gas and home heating oil prices has accounted for this.

-Health Care costs and uninsurance for Americans. Over 47 million U.S. citizens now are uninsured under Bush/Republican Administration policies.

-Housing market crash. Home values have been driven down and families devastated financially because conservatives have looked away and abandoned government responsibility while corporations and banks have encouraged home equity loans, second, and sub-prime mortgages.

-Middle class has fallen further behind. Thanks to conservative economic policies, middle-class Americans are financially worse off than they were eight years ago when the Republicans were given the White House by the Supreme Court in a 5 to 4 party-line vote.

-The Iraq boondoggle. The American taxpayer is being charged over $10 billion dollars a month for the Iraq and Afghanistan occupations. In addition, over 4,000 American military have lost their lives and over 30,000 American soldiers have been maimed for life.

So, think about it. Do you really want 4 or 8 more years of conservative Republican failures? If you do, then vote for McCain/Palin and Norm Coleman.

Dennis Litfin

Akeley

Every day, every hour, every conversation is an opportunity that may not come again.

We can move this country forward, but only with your help.

Polls close in five days.

"The home stretch"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:01:25 EDT

This election won't be decided by TV ads, news cycles, or the polls. It will be decided on the ground, by people talking to voters one at a time about Barack and the issues that matter.

All summer long, grassroots organizers and volunteers across the state helped register voters, identify Obam asupporters in their neighborhood, and had real, meaningful conversations about the issues with undecided voters.

For months now you've organized from Fergus Falls to St. Paul, and as a result, success is in reach, and Minnesota has the chance not only to secure it's 10 electoral voters for Barack Obama, but also to elect DFL candidates up and down the ticket to help bring about the change Minnesota's families need.

But that's just the beginning.

Now, in the few days, we need to fill 50,000 volunteer shifts to get out the vote.

It's a big goal, but this is a big election. And you won't be alone--just check out some of the news articles on the campaign's Get Out the Vote operation in Minnesota:

Kare 11:

At Barack Obama's campaign headquarters, staffers say they're not taking anything for granted in Minnesota. "Minnesota is a must-win state," said Jeff Blodgett, Obama's state campaign director. "And so, we run it in a must-win way."

The campaign says one of its goals is to mobilize more than 20,000 volunteers and get them to knock on Minnesota doors two million times by Election Day.

Blodgett said the primary strategy is a "ground game," and the Minnesota campaign is promising the biggest get-out-the-vote effort in state history. "This is the time when it's in our hands," Blodgett said

MinnPost:

Jeff Blodgett, the former Wellstone campaign manager and a student of grass-roots politics, runs Obama's Minnesota campaign. He's the general of an impressive, unprecedented state political army: 18,000 volunteers, 31 Obama offices across the state, "dozens'' of paid staffers and a disciplined, high-tech system.

The state field director, Jaclyn Urness, reports to Blodgett. Seven field directors around the state report to her. Scores of field organizers report to the directors. Super-volunteers and team captains, who also are volunteers, report to the directors.

Technology allows everyone to be connected. Text messages flow up and down the massive system.

"This is an on-the-ground organization like never before,'' said Blodgett. "We thought we did well with Paul [Wellstone]. This is way beyond that. But none of it would matter if people weren't excited about the candidate. The candidate captures the imagination of the people supporting him. There's real enthusiasm.''

According to Blodgett, this massive organization has made either person-to-person contact, or phone contact, with 3 million Minnesotans since the campaign opened its state office on July 1.

"This thing isn't over,'' he said.

And Blodgett says those are the words that keep the Obama campaign in Minnesota "at the edge of our seats. … Complacency is a concern. But I think most of our supporters feel the sense of urgency we feel.''

Polls close in six days... our moment is now.

Thursday: Join President Clinton, Sen. Klobuchar, and Al Franken in Minneapolis

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:49:07 EDT

This Thursday, October 30th, please join President Bill Clinton with special guests U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar and Senate Candidate Al Franken in Minneapolis, where they will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need.

TODAY: Conor Oberst Headlines Get Out The Vote Concert

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:22:49 EDT

With just six days until Election Day, Conor Oberst, the guitarist and vocalist of the popular band Bright Eyes, will host a Get Out The Vote concert today at Loring Pasta Bar in Minneapolis, near the University of Minnesota campus.

WHAT:
Get Out The Vote Concert with Conor Oberst

WHEN:
2 :30 PM, Wednesday, October 29

WHERE:
Loring Pasta Bar
327 14th Av. SE.
Minneapolis, MN

RSVP Online at:
http://mn.barackobama.com/ConorOberst

Want to attend? All you have to do is sign up for two "Get Out the Vote" volunteer shifts between now and Election Day.

When Chris Walla, who plays in the band Death Cab for Cutie, was in Minnesota recently, he encouraged young people to get involved in this election, and to help "Get Out the Vote." Check out the video below:

Jeff Blodgett Strategy Briefing On Obama Campaign Get Out The Vote Effort

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:53:01 EDT

Jeff Blodgett, Minnesota State Director; Photo credit: 4President.org

Mike of 4President.org, a blog which covers presidential campaigns, writes about the massive "Get Out the Vote" effort the Obama campaign is running in Minnesota:

ST. PAUL – Minnesota state director Jeff Blodgett held a press briefing today at 1:00 PM on the Obama Campaign for Change Get Out The Vote strategy. The briefing took place at “packet land,” the central location for assembling the material volunteers will use to accomplish the campaign’s aggressive goals during GOTV. Volunteers will be working at this location throughout the day.
The Obama Campaign for Change is organizing an aggressive, coordinated GOTV operation in a state known for grassroots get-out-the-vote efforts.
"We plan to work with a universe of 500,000 voters, voters who don't always vote in elections or they're new voters. We intend to knock on their doors, up to four times, between last Saturday up through election day."
"In addition, we intend to make phone calls to hundreds of thousand of voters who don't live in areas where it's convenient to door knock. And so, that combined effort we're working with about a million voters in our universe."
"In addition to the 37 field offices, we're going be offering 130 staging locations," said Jeff Blodgett at the strategy briefing.

For months now you've organized in large cities and small towns across America, competing for votes and voters everywhere, and as a result the electoral map is now wider than ever, with nearly a two dozen states that are too close to call. But that's just the beginning.

Now, in the final week, we need to fill 50,000 volunteer shifts to get out the vote across Minnesota.

Polls close in six days.

Rally with President Clinton on Thursday!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:05:35 EDT

This Thursday, former President Bill Clinton will be in Minneapolis hosting a "Get Out the Vote" rally for Barack Obama and Al Franken, with special guest Senator Amy Klobuchar.

Obama's Minnesota state director Jeff Blodgett:

President Clinton presided over a time of great economic prosperity. We’re honored to have President Clinton campaigning in Minnesota as the campaign comes to a close. President Clinton has a unique understanding of what it takes to bring the change we need for middle class families.

You can RSVP online for the rally at http://MN.BarackObama.com/FiveDaysToChange.

In these next seven days, our campaign faces its biggest and final challenge—getting out the vote. And we need your help.

So join Al Franken, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Bill Clinton for a Five Days Out "Get Out the Vote" rally on Thursday and sign up to help Barack between now and election day.

Woodbury Bulletin: Students prepare to help on Election Day

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 18:30:23 EDT

Minnesotans young and old are committing to taking Election Day off to help out, either on the ground or on the phones, to make sure Barack is elected the next president of the United States.

From the Woodbury Bulletin:

Local high school students spent two hours training at Woodbury’s Central Park facility on Oct. 21 in preparation to be election judges for the Nov. 4 general election.
After completing the training students will help out at their local voter precinct from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., said Carol Peterson, a Washington County elections supervisor, as she went through an extensive list of information with the students at the training session.
In addition to getting class credit for being an election judge, students will also receive $10 for every hour they participate, Peterson said.
The students will be responsible for multiple tasks throughout the day including getting voters registered and in the right line at the precinct, checking that no campaign signs are present at the precinct and, finally, designating the last person in line that may vote as the polls close at 8 p.m., Peterson said.
Though not all the students present at the training were old enough to vote, they said they were still eager to participate in the election process.
“I watch the elections on TV, I want to be prepared when I’m able to vote and make the right decision,” said Brooke Hendrickson, a 16-year-old Park High School student and election judge trainee. Hendrickson said she is involved in student government at Park.
“I find politics interesting. I think Obama’s healthcare plan is clearer, but college and the economy are also important issues for me,” Hendrickson said.
Most students found out about the judge training via their social studies instructors.
“We watched the debates in our political science class all semester,” said Sam Luedtke, an 18-year-old Woodbury High School senior who plans to vote on Nov. 4 in addition to being an election judge.
Luedtke’s fellow classmate Ben Wolters was also present at the training. “It seemed like a great opportunity,” said Wolters, who also plans to vote on Nov. 4.
“This is one of the most controversial elections in history and political science class gave us some really good information on the issues,” Wolters said.
Daniel Riggenberg, a 17-year-old Woodbury High School student also taking political science, said he came to the training because young people need to be more active participants in government.
“I can’t vote so I have to do something. This election is really important and young people need to be more involved,” Riggenberg said.
According to Riggenberg, only five people from his political science class showed up for the training.
Hendrickson also said she felt frustrated with voters who choose not to participate on Election Day.
“So many people don’t care, don’t vote and then complain about the way things are,” Hendrickson said. “You [voters] have the choice. If I could vote I would.”

"We can't afford to slow down"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 16:24:01 EDT

Barack gave his closing argument speech in Canton, Ohio yesterday. During his remarks he told voters that this election is not over. That we have to spend the next eight days working as hard as ever because our future depends on next Tuesday.

We have one week to contact voters. One week to spread Barack's message to undecideds. One week to make sure every supporter votes early and brings their friends and family along. One week.

We know we can do it. We can do it because, as Barack said this morning, we've been doing it for 21 months.

We began this journey in the depths of winter nearly two years ago, on the steps of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois. Back then, we didn’t have much money or many endorsements. We weren’t given much of a chance by the polls or the pundits, and we knew how steep our climb would be.

But I also knew this. I knew that the size of our challenges had outgrown the smallness of our politics. I believed that Democrats and Republicans and Americans of every political stripe were hungry for new ideas, new leadership, and a new kind of politics – one that favors common sense over ideology; one that focuses on those values and ideals we hold in common as Americans.

Most of all, I believed in your ability to make change happen. I knew that the American people were a decent, generous people who are willing to work hard and sacrifice for future generations. And I was convinced that when we come together, our voices are more powerful than the most entrenched lobbyists, or the most vicious political attacks, or the full force of a status quo in Washington that wants to keep things just the way they are.

Twenty-one months later, my faith in the American people has been vindicated. That’s how we’ve come so far and so close – because of you. That’s how we’ll change this country – with your help. And that’s why we can’t afford to slow down, sit back, or let up for one day, one minute, or one second in this last week. Not now. Not when so much is at stake.

You can start working for change tonight. Help us by volunteering to help "Get Out the Vote" in your neighborhood. We need your help.

You can also take an hour or two out tonight during call time (5-9pm CST) and contact voters. Your phone calls will make the difference one week from now.

UPDATE: Thursday: Bill Clinton Headlines Rally for Obama Campaign, Franken in Minneapolis

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:25:38 EDT

The Obama for America and Al Franken for Senate campaigns today announced that former President Bill Clinton will headline a “Five Days to Change” Get-Out-The-Vote rally in Minneapolis Thursday evening. Clinton will be joined by U.S. Senate candidate Al Franken and U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

President Clinton will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need and the candidates, like Al, who are working to help make that happen.

Here are the details:

Five Days to Change Rally with President Bill Clinton

Minneapolis Convention Center
Exhibit Hall A
1301 2nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN

Thursday, October 30th
Doors Open: 7:00 p.m.

RSVP Online at: http://MN.BarackObama.com/FiveDaysToChange

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

Don't forget to RSVP at http://MN.BarackObama.com/FiveDaysToChange

Pick a time and place in Minnesota

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:38:35 EDT

Our campaign sent out this email last night encouraging everyone to sign up for a Get Out the Vote shift. We need everyone for this important final push-- so don't forget to sign up.

This race will be won or lost in a few crucial battleground states -- including Minnesota.

Our get out the vote operation in Minnesota is ready to go, but now it's up to you to fill the volunteer shifts. You can pick the exact day and time you'd like to help out, and we'll tell you where.

No experience is necessary. Campaign staff and volunteers will give you everything you need to be part of this historic effort.

Sign up for a volunteer shift in Minnesota right now.

The last four days before Election Day will be the most important of this entire campaign.

Everything we have worked for over the past 20 months will come down to what we do -- or don't do -- to get out the vote.

Change never comes without a fight, and it won't come at all unless each of us does our part.

It's in your hands. Will you help make history with us?

Sign up for a volunteer shift right now. Decide what day and time you want to make a difference.

Thanks for all you've done.

Now let's make sure we don't wake up on November 5th wishing we had done more.

Obama for America

"The largest Get Out the Vote Operation in Minnesota history"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 10:53:27 EDT

This weekend will be the biggest on the ground effort of the campaign. It's the weekend before Election Day and we need all of our supporters on the ground in their community helping us to win the election.

Our on the ground effort in Minnesota has been incredible this past five months. Organizers are working day and night to win Minnesota, a must-win state for the Obama campaign. But to pull it off, they're counting on the time, energy, and passion of Obama supporters across the state who share their commitment to Barack's message of change.

Just check out this interview with Jeff Blodgett, the Obama campaign's Minnesota state director about the Campaign for Change's "Get Out the Vote" operation:

From MN Publius:

Earlier today, I had the chance to talk for about a half an hour with Jeff Blodgett, the State Director for Barack Obama in Minnesota. Blodgett is the most distinguished DFL operative in Minnesota. In addition to being Paul Wellstone’s Campaign Manager, Blodgett was a senior adviser in the Klobuchar campaign, GOTV Director for the Kerry campaign in Minnesota and runs Wellstone Action, the not for profit group working to advance the causes that the late Sen. Wellstone fought for during his time in public life.

Blodgett gave me a run down of the Obama campaign’s GOTV plans in Minnesota. If I had to describe the effort in one word, it would be “wow.”

First things first, if you are not yet signed up to help during this last week, go to www.gotvforchange.com right now. You can enter your zip code and find the campaign action center closest to you, even sign up for a specific shift.

Now onto the nitty gritty details. With Blodgett in charge, you will not be surprised to find out that the Obama campaign in Minnesota has been heavily focused on a grassroots ground game. Since June 1, the Obama campaign has had 1 million conversations with voters in Minnesota. That’s stunning.

But, as the saying goes, you ain’t seen nothing yet.

There are 37 Obama offices in Minnesota. During the last four days of the campaign, that will expand to 130 GOTV action centers spread out from Grand Marais to East Grand Forks to Worthington to La Cresent. Why the massive expansion? The campaign has to accommodate some 20,000 volunteers who have already committed to helping during those final days (including 10,000 who have already signed up to help on Election Day alone!) To put this in perspective, in 2004 the Kerry campaign had about 10,000 volunteers during the final GOTV period and 5,000 volunteers on Election Day.

That’s right – the Obama campaign has doubled what the Kerry campaign did in Minnesota just four years ago.

Its also worth noting that the 20,000 volunteers are just what the Obama campaign brings to the table – it doesn’t count the Franken volunteers, the Madia volunteers and all the other great DFL campaigns that will bring volunteers to the coordinated GOTV effort.

So what will this army of volunteers be doing? The Obama campaign has identified a universe of 500,000 sporadic and new voters who they think are likely to vote for the DFL ticket if they get to the polls. Each one of these 500,000 people will be contacted 4 to 6 times between now and Election Day. The vast majority of these contacts will be made through doorknocking, though phone banking will be used in rural areas.

People say this every campaign, but there is no doubt it is true this time around: this is the largest GOTV effort in Minnesota history.

You can be part of it by going to www.gotvforchange.com today and signing up for a shift. If you are wondering where you need to go to vote, head to www.voteforchange.com, which will direct you to your polling location.

Without a doubt, the strength we have in Minnesota is due to the people we have on the ground, talking to voters face-to-face about Barack and the importance of their vote.

We need everyone on the ground this weekend -- it is the only way we are going to win next week. Sign up to Get Out the Vote this weekend.

Minnesota candidates for Change

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 09:47:04 EDT

Over the weekend, the Obama campaign sent out an email to its supporters promoting the DFL candidates who are working hard to help Barack create the kind of change America needs.

You can change politics in this country at every level -- up and down the ballot.

There are candidates in Minnesota who are working to bring the change this country needs. Get involved and help carry them to victory in November.

    Al Franken for Senate:
    Visit the website

    U.S. Representative Tim Walz for Congress:
    Visit the website

    Steve Sarvi for Congress:
    Visit the website

    Ashwin Madia for Congress:
    Visit the website

    U.S. Representative Betty McCollum for Congress:
    Visit the website

    U.S. Representative Keith Ellison for Congress:
    Visit the website

    El Tinklenberg for Congress:
    Visit the website

    U.S. Representative Collin Peterson for Congress:
    Visit the website

    U.S. Representative Jim Oberstar for Congress:
    Visit the website

Don't wait until Election Day to support these candidates. Get involved today to make sure Minnesota has a strong team to take our country in a new direction.

Thanks,

Obama for America

P.S. -- To get involved with Obama for America in your community, visit your state page: http://MN.barackobama.com

Bill Clinton to Rally for Obama, Franken in Minneapolis on Thursday

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:01:48 EDT

Former President Bill Clinton will host a rally in Minneapolis on Thursday night for Barack Obama and DFL Senate candidate Al Franken.

UPDATE: This event will be free and open to the public. Tickets will not be required. Check back here later today for more information on how to RSVP.

Here's the press release sent out by the campaign in Minnesota:

SAINT PAUL– The Obama for America and Al Franken for Senate campaigns today announced that former President Bill Clinton will campaign in Minnesota Thursday to show his support for the two candidates. Clinton will host a rally in Minneapolis Thursday evening, joined by U.S. Senate candidate Al Franken.

“President Clinton has always understood that you grow the economy by investing in the middle class and putting people first,” said Al Franken. “Minnesota families need a change in Washington so we can get our economy back on track -- and I'm so honored to be able to stand with President Clinton in fighting for that change in this election.”

“President Clinton presided over a time of great economic prosperity,” Obama’s Minnesota state director Jeff Blodgett said. “We’re honored to have President Clinton campaigning in Minnesota as the campaign comes to a close. President Clinton has a unique understanding of what it takes to bring the change we need for middle-class families.”

Everyone Canvasses, Even Barack!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:18:22 EDT

Over the weekend, the Campaign for Change kicked off its "Get Out the Vote" effort with canvass and phonebanks at hundreds of locations across the state. Thousands of regular Minnesotans talked with their neighbors about the importance of voting next Tuesday for Barack Obama and DFL candidates up and down the ticket. They know how canvassing and getting out into the community can affect an election.

Talking to people in your area one-on-one, face-to-face, has been proven as the most effective way to persuade undecided voters -- even Barack does it.

The campaign is in the final push of the election with only one week left to pound the pavement for Barack. We need to double our organizing effort.

Thousands of supporters across the state still need to hear Barack's message of change. Help out in your neighborhood between Monday and Friday, and help us "Get Out the Vote" over the weekend!

Right now people are paying more attention than ever before, and every person who votes early is someone who can tell their friends they voted for Barack and the change we need. Go to your local office and sign up to canvass today.

More than 100 Suburban Leaders Endorse Barack Obama for President

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:48:07 EDT

People support Barack for many reasons. But the a theme that has been present since the first days of this campaign is change. Today, a group of suburban mayors, city councilors, county commissioners, school board members, and legislators announced their support of Barack Obama for President.

White Bear Lake Mayor Paul Auger explained how Barack & Joe are the candidates to bring the change Minnesota needs: "As suburban Minnesotans, we see the affects the Bush-McCain economic policies have had on our towns and communities. Senator McCain’s unsteadiness in a time of crisis will not help restore this economy for working families. Senator Obama and Senator Biden have shown the judgment and vision to overcome the ongoing economic crisis and bring the change we need."

Below is the release that was sent to press. You can click here to see the full list of Suburban Leaders for Obama announced today.

ST. PAUL – In a display of broad based support, more than 100 suburban leaders today announced their support of Barack Obama for president. These suburban leaders agree that Barack Obama and Joe Biden are uniquely qualified to deal with the growing challenges facing Minnesotans in this time of economic crisis.

“As suburban Minnesotans, we see the affects the Bush-McCain economic policies have had on our towns and communities,” White Bear Lake Mayor Paul Auger said. “Senator McCain’s unsteadiness in a time of crisis will not help restore this economy for working families. Senator Obama and Senator Biden have shown the judgment and vision to overcome the ongoing economic crisis and bring the change we need.”

As the economy continues to struggle, suburban leaders are facing unprecedented challenges managing the everyday concerns of Minnesotans living and raising families in the suburbs. The schools, public infrastructure and small businesses that suburban families rely on are all at great risk as the economy continues to falter.

“Suburban leaders are on the front lines trying to deal every day with the impact of this economic crisis – on our small businesses, schools and infrastructure,” Obama’s Minnesota state director Jeff Blodgett said. “John McCain has been erratic and unsteady since this crisis began – staggering from position to position and trying to change the subject away from the economy by launching false character attacks. Barack Obama has shown steady leadership during this economic crisis and offered real solutions to build the middle class and strengthen our economy.”

Letters from the Field: "My grandparents taught me what's important in life"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:34:32 EDT

Can you make a real difference in the election? Does this election really matter?

You bet it does. Ida Rukavina in Aurora writes to the Timberjay Newspaper:

In 2002, I worked as the 8th Congressional District Coordinator for Senator Paul Wellstone. A couple weeks before the election, I got a call that my Grandpa, Benny Rukavina, had died. Paul Wellstone called me the next morning and it was the last time I spoke with him. When we heard that Paul was taking time out of campaigning to come to my Grandpa’s funeral, my dad asked him not to because he should be spending his time campaigning. However, Paul loved my grandparents, just as he loved all Iron Rangers and Minnesotans. Paul, his family and other friends of mine died that day coming to the funeral. I still cry as I write this, because that was the worst day of my life and for my family.

Some of you might ask why it wasn’t the worst day of my life when my own Grandpa passed away. To be perfectly honest, I miss him every day, but he lived a long, fulfilling life. He raised three kids on a steelworker’s income along with my grandmother’s income from the Public Utilities. Grandpa Benny helped organize the Steelworker’s Union. Because of his union, he owned a house, he retired with a pension, he had health care for his family and he was able to send all his kids to college. My Grandpa and Grandma knew the importance of unions for the middle class. He knew that without unions, there would be no middle class and he knew for sure that the DFL party was the party that supported his middle class neighbors and friends and his union. My Grandpa, being the good citizen he was, had already voted absentee before passing away- he voted for Paul.

This past summer, my Grandmother, Martha Rukavina, passed away during another important Senate campaign. I talked to my Grandma and I know she would have cast her vote for Al Franken and Barack Obama. Why? Because my grandparents believed in education, health care, and jobs. They knew that when we invest in our communities we all do better. That’s how I was raised and that’s how I hope to raise my children some day. Al Franken and Obama will fight for the working class. We don’t need champions for the rich- like Coleman and McCain. It seems they already have enough support in Congress with the $700 billion bailout. We need someone to fight for the principles that Minnesotans believe in and in my heart, I know that’s Obama and Franken.

This election will shape our country for years to come. As a union member, I am voting on the issues that I know are right for our country and our middle class- affordable health care, retirement, living wage jobs, and education. I’m voting for Obama and Franken for another reason too and that’s Social Security. They know that Social Security should be secure- NOT put into private accounts in the stock market like McCain and Coleman have proposed. Can you imagine the dilemma our elderly neighbors and friends would be facing if the Republicans had invested our Social Security in the stock market like they wanted to? The thought is frightening, almost as frightening as McCain as President and another term of Senator Coleman.

In my job as a union representative, representing school, city and hospital employees, I see every day what this economy is doing to my members. I know we can’t take another four years of this. The last eight years under George Bush haven’t been good for my union members who had to pay for a war and, as an example, saw their union jobs jeopardized at local nursing homes and hospitals when Medicare and Medicaid got cut because of a war. The Republicans, including McCain and Coleman, promised us that the tax breaks to the rich would trickle down to us. I haven’t yet felt a drop. Have you? On Nov. 4, I ask you to join with me by voting Obama for President and Al Franken for Senate.

We couldn’t agree more.

Take some time this weekend to go talk to voters in your neighborhood. It only takes a few hours of your time to spread Barack’s plan for America, and in return you’ll get four years of sound policies we can all be proud of.

Minnesota Daily Endorses Barack Obama for President

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 08:25:06 EDT

The Minnesota Daily, the campus newspaper of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, joins the Star Tribune in endorsing Barack Obama for Presiden, believing he is the candidate who will lead us in "a new direction":

Barack Obama, the unlikely Democratic presidential nominee, entered the presidential race with troubling inexperience: four years as a freshman U.S. Senator from Illinois and seven years in the Illinois state Legislature.

John McCain’s political career, meanwhile, has spanned more than two decades. The Vietnam War hero, during that career, has legislated for and against military intervention, pushed for ethics reform and environmental regulations. McCain has indeed stood against the Republican Party, often risking his preservation within it.

But that hasn’t been so during this presidential race. In an extraordinary about-face, he has campaigned against the very bills he helped author, changed his stance on the Bush tax cuts for the richest in the nation, and chose a running mate with little knowledge of the challenges that face this country. McCain has failed to put country first, instead choosing to appease the fringes of his party he once flouted.

Obama has offset any concerns about inexperience with his astute judgment on the campaign trail and during his political career. His decision to denounce the war in Iraq amid a swell of patriotic support for it was the first sign of sound foreign policy judgment. Sen. Joe Biden, a 36-year Delaware Senator who currently chairs the Senate Foreign-Relations committee, will certainly serve as a necessary and knowledgeable advisor. Domestically, Obama called for restricting the financial regulatory system months before the housing and credit crises hit while McCain oddly called for a domestic spending freeze.

The Organization for Economic Corporation and Development recently released a report that found income inequality in the United States has increased greatly since 2000, when the Bush tax cuts on the top percent of income earners went into effect and financial regulation went lax. McCain’s recent assertions that Obama will redistribute wealth — ignoring the fact that distribution of wealth is the very purposes of taxes — in the United States are correct: Obama has proposed to repeal the Bush tax cuts and put money back into the hands of the lower and middle classes because it does not just trickle down to them. McCain provides few answers to quell this economic turmoil. And the ones he does provide are ineffectual: he has proposed to pay for his sweeping tax cuts — the majority of which are on the rich — by cutting pork-barrel spending, which only account for a small percent of the budget.

McCain’s hawkish stances on Iraq, Iran and Russia are the very reason the U.S. reputation is damaged abroad. While we are disturbed with Obama’s assertion that he would have no trouble violating Pakistan’s sovereignty, his realization that military troops and resources must be shifted to Afghanistan from Iraq provides necessary direction to a catastrophic U.S. strategy in the region. His willingness to talk to dictators — not without pre conditions — illustrates a much more diplomatic and multilateral approach to foreign relations necessary in this dangerous, post-Sept. 11 era.

On energy policy, McCain’s energy plan bellies on domestic oil production and increasing the role of nuclear power, but ignores that government support for companies producing alternatives will greatly accelerate the nation’s aim to become energy dependent.

Moreover, under McCain, a dangerously conservative Supreme Court could take shape with three liberal justices possibly leaving. Obama would retain a proper balance on the Court while McCain’s appointments would fundamentally alter its direction.

Obama’s run for president has showed a remarkable and resounding call for optimism while McCain’s campaign message has turned incredibly divisive, at times, skirting on bigotry. We urge readers to take part in fundamentally shifting U.S. policy away from politics of fear, unilateralism and exclusion with the prospect that the world which we inherit is one, at the very least, taking heed of the lessons of the past eight years and moving into a new era of prosperity, safety and above all hope.

Star Tribune Endorses Barack Obama for President

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:04:16 EDT

The Star Tribune endorsed Barack Obama for President with the following editorial:

Each presidential campaign is billed as more critical than the last. This election -- coming amid a global financial crisis and wars in Iraq and Afghanistan -- truly finds the country at a crossroads.

Republican Sen. John McCain presents himself as a maverick, attempting to distance his agenda from the policies of the Bush administration. McCain is an American hero who has served his country with honor, often standing up for the causes he believed in despite intense political pressure.

Democratic Sen. Barack Obama also promises reform and change. Since his passionate "Red State-Blue State'' speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, Obama has staked out an optimistic vision of a more united America and a bipartisan approach to addressing problems in Washington.

With hope that he can deliver on that promise, Obama receives our endorsement.

This was a difficult decision because both candidates are flawed. Ideally Obama would have more experience and a long list of bipartisan accomplishments. Criticism that he has spent much of his time in the Senate running for the presidency is legitimate, and we were disturbed to see him break his pledge to abide by federal campaign spending limits.

McCain, whose campaign has lacked focus, made his most serious error in judgment with the selection of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate. McCain is well aware that the No. 1 qualification of a vice president should be readiness for the top job. Palin does not have the depth of experience to assure Americans she would be ready to run the country.

Obama's steady and analytical approach has stood out during the campaign. To make his vice presidential selection, Obama analyzed his own weaknesses and turned to Sen. Joe Biden, who offered deep foreign policy experience and the ability to assume the presidency if necessary.

Throughout his career, Obama has revealed an intellectual curiosity and openness to new ideas. He surrounds himself with academic experts and private-sector leaders, preferring research-based answers over partisan dogma. He seems willing to consider divergent viewpoints.

His approach to economic policy is revealing. Obama's appointment of centrist Jason Furman as his top economic adviser drew criticism from labor leaders and the far-left wing of the Democratic Party, in part because of the promarket Furman's links to Robert Rubin, a former Wall Street insider who served in the Clinton administration. But Furman is only one of a long list of economic experts -- including billionaire Warren Buffett -- to whom Obama has turned for advice. That he seeks out a variety of views on complex issues is refreshing.

There are numerous key policy differences, and in many cases Obama offers progressive and pragmatic ideas. His proposals on the economy, health care, energy independence, education, the environment and infrastructure investment -- while far from perfect -- offer an intelligent framework for progress.

The state of the economy makes it unlikely that either candidate will be able to fulfill the long list of promises he's made on the campaign trail. The Tax Policy Center says Obama's tax-cut pledges alone would reduce federal revenues by $2.9 trillion over the next 10 years, while McCain's would cut revenues $4.2 trillion.

Obama is less than convincing when he says he would go through the federal budget line by line with a scalpel, and McCain's call for an across-the-board spending freeze is arbitrary and impractical. Neither candidate adequately addresses the looming Medicare and Social Security funding crises.

Nor do the serious challenges awaiting the next president stop at our borders. He must also, in the words of Colin Powell, "fix the reputation that we've left with the rest of the world.'' Obama's multilateral approach to foreign policy improves the chances that America can begin to restore its stature and gain deeper support from its allies. Powell's endorsement, which followed a number of conversations with Obama, is a significant vote of confidence from one of the early pillars of the Bush administration.

If elected, Obama will need to prove his independence from predictable party politics and take a bipartisan approach to complex problems. He'll need to continue to emphasize personal responsibility as a bedrock American value. He and the country will need to remember the homeland security lessons of 9/11 and bring the Iraq war to a responsible end. Obama has properly rebuked Iran's nuclear aspirations and Russia's aggression, and he's promised a strong commitment to national defense. He seems determined not to let national security be an afterthought for his administration.
It would be a mistake to offer this endorsement without recognizing the nature of this moment in American history. The country is about to elect either its first African-American as president or its first woman as vice president. Both are long overdue, but Palin's shortcomings would likely overshadow the historic nature of her election. An Obama presidency would reaffirm for the country and the world the possibilities offered by a free, inclusive and democratic society. It would herald an important generational shift in American leadership and provide hope for a more unified nation.
Even after a bruising campaign by two strong candidates, Obama's optimistic message of unity endures. On Nov. 4, Americans will set a new course. In Barack Obama, they have a candidate who can inspire faith in better days to come.

Statement from Barack Obama on 6th Anniversary of Paul Wellstone's Tragic Death

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:40:53 EDT

Senator Barack Obama today remembered the sixth anniversary of Senator Paul Wellstone's death:

Paul Wellstone was a hero and inspiration to me and so many Americans from all walks of life. When I first arrived in the United States Senate, I was so honored to find his name carved into my desk, because we share the belief that opportunity should lie not only with those who have the most money and influence, but with every single American who wants to succeed.
Paul Wellstone often said that the lives we lead should never be separate from the words we speak, and in an era of such easy cynicism and broken politics, it is a lasting testament to his character that he lived his words every single day. Today, we remember Senator Wellstone, his wife Sheila, their daughter Marcia and all those who lost their lives six years ago in that tragic plane crash on Minnesota’s Iron Range.

Letters from the Field: "Obama will lead us back to ideals"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:46:26 EDT

Linda Flanders from Bay City writes in the Republican Eagle:

To the Editor:
As part owner of a struggling small business, one with innovative new ideas, I am desperately ready for change.
Over the past eight years I have seen and experienced how the rules are not made for small businesses and how innovation has been shut out by fear and control. Yet, it is only when we have economically healthy local communities that we will rebuild our national economy.
I have certainly seen that money does not trickle down, but I guarantee that it will work its way up. If small innovative businesses get help and get healthy, our economy will grow because others will start asking, “What did you do”?
That will take leadership, understanding the demands of a 21st century global world and a quick change of direction. While I believe both candidates are good men, I believe Barack Obama is the man to lead us back to our ideals and then onward into a healthy and prosperous future.
Please join me in voting for him Nov. 4.
Linda Flanders
Bay City

New to the site or still undecided? Learn more about Barack Obama and his position on important issues. If you're already a supporter, find out what you can do to help between now and Election Day.

VIDEO: Hillary Needs You to Volunteer

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 19:55:14 EDT

There are just eleven days left before the Election, and this weekend Barack's Minnesota Campaign for Change will launch its statewide "Get Out the Vote" program with events across the state.

For one hour, one day, or more, spend your time working for Barack. This election will be won or lost on the ground and we need everyone contacting voters over the next 11 days.

When Hillary Clinton was in Hibbing on Monday, she talked about the importance of getting involved now.

Help us Get Out The Vote this weekend by attending one of the kick-off events below:.

Saturday October, 24
10AM
St Paul
Featuring Al Franken
Obama Campaign for Change Office
1389 University Ave W
St Paul, MN

St Paul
Featuring State Auditor Rebecca Otto
Laborer's Hall
346 West Larpenteur
St Paul, MN

St Paul
Featuring Rep. Betty McCollum
Sheet Metal Local #10
1681 Cope Ave E, Suite A
St Paul, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Mayor RT Rybak
Obama Campaign for Change Office
2200 W Broadway ave
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman
Central Labors Union Council Hall
312 Central Ave SE
Minneapolis, MN
2PM
St Paul
Featuring Assistant Senate Majority Leader Tarryl Clark
Laborer's Hall
346 West Larpenteur
St Paul, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Rep. Keith Ellison
Central Labors Union Council Hall
312 Central Ave SE
Minneapolis, MN

Duluth
Featuring Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher
Obama Campaign for Change Office
302 E. Superior ave
Duluth, MN

Virginia
Featuring Rep. Tom Rukavina
Obama Campaign for Change Office
327 Chestnut St
Virginia, MN
Sunday, October 25 12 PM St Paul
Featuring Mayor Chris Colman
Obama Campaign for Change Office
1389 University Ave W
St Paul, MN
St Paul
Featuring Al Franken and Rep. Keith Ellison
Laborer's Hall
346 West Larpenteur
St Paul, MN

St Paul
Featuring Thomasin Franken
Macalester College
1600 Grand Ave.
St Paul, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Assistant Senate Majority Leader Tarryl Clark
Obama Campaign for Change Office
2200 W Broadway ave
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis-
Featuring Mayor RT Rybak
CWA Local 7200 Hall
3521 E Lake St
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis-
Featuring State Auditor Rebecca Otto
Central Labors Union Council Hall
312 Central Ave SE
Minneapolis, MN

Virginia
Featuring Senator David Tomassoni
Obama Campaign for Change Office
327 Chestnut St
Virginia, MN
4PM
St Paul
Featuring Mayor Chris Coleman
Obama Campaign for Change Office
1389 University Ave W
St Paul, MN

St Paul-
Featuring Thomasin Franken and Susan Gaertner
Laborer's Hall
346 West Larpenteur
St Paul, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Al Franken and Rep. Keith Ellison
Obama Campaign for Change Office
2200 W Broadway ave
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman
CWA Local 7200 Hall
3521 E Lake St
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Mayor RT Rybak
Central Labors Union Council Hall
312 Central Ave SE
Minneapolis, MN

Duluth:
Featuring Mayor Don Ness
Obama Campaign for Change Office
302 E. Superior ave
Duluth, MN

Virginia
Featuring Senator David Tomassoni
Obama Campaign for Change Office
327 Chestnut St
Virginia, MN

"We remember our friends"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:00:19 EDT

On a cold night this past January, Barack stood on a stage in New Hampshire and gave a speech that has since inspired millions of Americans to get involved in politics again.

It inspired students, mothers and fathers, grandparents, union workers, waitresses, teachers, and many others to get involved in this grassroots campaign for change.

But grassroots, community-driven politics is not something new to Minnesota, and this weekend we remember a great man, who was called the "conscience of the Senate."

Below is an email I recieved from Wellstone Action! this morning:

Saturday, October 25th marks the 6th anniversary of the plane crash that took the lives of Paul and Sheila Wellstone, Marcia Wellstone Markuson, Mary McEvoy, Tom Lapic, and Will McLaughlin. We pause to remember these six wonderful and talented individuals and to hold them in our hearts.

We remember their passion for social justice and their commitment to transforming our world for the common good. We dedicate our work to their memory, knowing that they would be proud of all that we collectively have accomplished.

Before the caucuses, Barack came to Minnesota and shared the following:

Some of you know that when I first got to the United States Senate, I opened up the door of the desk where I was assigned. And it has the names of some of the greater senators who have served. They carved their names, in their own hand, into the desk drawer.
One of those names was somebody who shared with me this belief that change doesn't happen from the top down. A guy named Paul Wellstone.
A guy who helped to build a movement here in Minnesota because he believed in you the way I believe in you. And this is part of that movement for change.

Under the Radar, Out of Bounds

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:51:06 EDT

You’ve probably heard about the McCain campaign’s divisive smear tactics in the press. Even McCain’s Republican colleagues are decrying McCain’s increasingly dishonorable campaign. Republican Senators Norm Coleman, Susan Collins, Gordon Smith and Olympia Snowe have all publicly disavowed McCain’s negative, misleading robocalls.

Now you can see for yourself the deceptive mailers and robocalls that voters in many swing states and finding in their mailboxes and on their answering machines.

We’ve created Under the Radar to reveal the attacks launched by the McCain campaign and the Republican Party that aren't necessarily making their way to the evening news. They’re quietly using fear tactics to scare people, but this time, we’re not going to let them get away with these quiet, under-the-radar smear campaign.

At Under the Radar, you can see all the smear mailers they’re sending out – divided by state. You can also listen to the actual robocalls that are ringing voters across the country. You can even report any deceptive robocalls or flyers that come to your mailbox or answering machine.

Don’t let these smear tactics go unnoticed. And make sure everyone you know goes to Fight the Smears to learn the truth so they can fight back against these ads.

The issues in this election are too important to allow our election to be hijacked by the politics of deception of fear. Check out Under the Radar, and then go to Fight the Smears to spread the truth.

Letters from the Field: "Some facts for the Undecided"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 08:26:20 EDT

Ed in Willmar writes to The West Central Tribune about the facts of John MCCain's record:

If you haven’t made your presidential pick, you may want to consider the following:

First, Editor and Publisher, the newspaper industry journal, has been tallying the newspaper endorsements for each candidate. As of Oct. 20, Barack Obama had received 114 endorsements to John McCain’s 40. Twenty-six of the newspapers endorsing Obama chose Bush in 2004.

One newspaper, the Chicago Tribune, a conservative paper whose first leader was a founder of the Republican Party, has endorsed a Democrat for president for the first time since its beginning in 1847. The full endorsement is on the newspaper’s Web site. Here is a highlight:

“We have known Obama since he entered politics a dozen years ago. We have watched him, worked with him, argued with him as he rose from an effective state senator to an inspiring U.S. senator to the Democratic Party’s nominee for president. We have tremendous confidence in his intellectual rigor, his moral compass and his ability to make sound, thoughtful, careful decisions. He is ready."

Second, McCain has criticized Obama for wanting to “redistribute wealth” because Obama wants to rescind the tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans. McCain ignores the redistribution of wealth that occurred during the Bush years. Census Bureau data shows that the number of people living in poverty in the United States increased by 5,695,000 between 2000 and 2007. Simultaneously, according to Forbes magazine, the number of U.S. billionaires increased by 200 to a total of 472. Think about it. We are not talking a few million. We are talking one thousand million dollars, more money then anyone can possibly spend, but McCain wants to protect billionaires from paying more taxes.

Third, check out “McCain’s Miserable Record of Not Supporting America’s Troops and Veterans” at www.vetvoice.com. You will learn that McCain, a veteran and POW, claims to be a friend of veterans but has an abysmal record on veterans’ issues. He has repeatedly voted against improved veterans’ benefits, including increased health care, educational benefits, and mental health counseling. Don’t ask me why a veteran fails his comrades, but McCain clearly has.

VIDEO: Irish Fiddlers for Obama

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 21:07:26 EDT

Over the past 18 month's Barack's message of change has inspired students, mothers and fathers, grandparents, union workers, waitresses, teachers, including many an Irish-American.

Recently, State Rep. Erin Murphy sat down with Liz Carroll and Daithi Sproule before an evening performance in St. Paul for a "jam session" about the importance of this election.

Liz, the daughter of Irish immigrants, is one of the nation's most reverred Celtic musicians, often appearing with Daithi, who is an accomplished guitarist in his own right.

Check out the video:

From our many backgrounds, we are unified behind a single goal: to work alongside Barack Obama to restore the promise of our nation – a nation that combines our many roots into collective strength — and give Americans of all backgrounds the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.

The outcome of this election is too important to just wait and see what happens. Our time is now.

Help us "Get Out the Vote" for Barack Obama over the next 12 days, and be a part of the change you want to see in the world.

"Why this GOP governor backs Obama"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:11:10 EDT

This morning, Republican former Minnesota governor Arne Carlson announced his support of Barack Obama for president

Governor Carlson, who served from 1991-1999, outlined how he came to his decision in the Star Tribune:

Without question, this election will be the most important one in my lifetime. Traditionally, national campaigns have focused on which party and which candidate could best improve our lot in terms of peace and prosperity. Today, I truly believe our very survival as a successful and independent nation is at stake.
This may all sound dramatic but consider the following:
•We are engaged in a war that should never have been launched and does not lend itself to an easy exit.
•Our true national deficits when put on the accrual system of accounting exceed $53 trillion, or $450,000 per household. Much of that debt is owned by other nations, including Japan and China.
•Since the 1970s we have promised ourselves that we would significantly reduce our dependency on foreign oil but every effort toward success was offset by the allure of cheap oil, SUVs and massive trade deficits, and our dependency has increased.
•The American dream of a growing middle class continues to be threatened. In April of this year, the Pew Research Center found that "for decades, middle-income Americans had been making absolute progress" and then concluded, "but since 1999, they have not made economic gains." In the six months since that finding, the middle class plight has significantly worsened with the mortgage and liquidity crisis along with growing fears of a deep recession.
Politically, the Republican Party and its candidates are in full flight from this wreckage and the name "Bush," while Democrats continue to pin the tail on the elephant.
It had been my hope that Sen. John McCain would have seen these series of challenges as an opportunity to redefine the Republican Party as Presidents Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Eisenhower had done. This would require a global vision, financial discipline and a sense of confidence reflecting the best in American idealism.
The choice of Gov. Sarah Palin as a running mate, and the resultant shallow campaign based on fear and suspicion, looks frighteningly similar to the politics of Karl Rove.
Sen. Barack Obama arrived on the political scene as a wind of freshness, unity and idealism. He saw America as it could be if we reached across all divides. This long, grueling campaign has revealed a remarkably disciplined and focused leader who has the potential to become a truly great president.
President John F. Kennedy spoke of the opportunity of America to pass the torch of leadership to a new generation. This is entirely appropriate for today’s history, in that we need the benefit of a longer-term vision on the compelling issues of our time ranging from global warming to exercising financial discipline

Picture Post: Hillary Clinton Rallies Iron Rangers in Hibbing

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 17:08:15 EDT

Check out these photos from the "Change We Need" rally in Hibbing with Hillary Clinton and share your own.

Making Higher Education Accessible to All Americans

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:50:19 EDT

"There’s only one candidate who is looking at how we make college affordable for every single child in this nation..." -- Michelle Obama, September 22, 2008

On Monday morning, Michelle Obama hosted a conference call with college newspapers across the country to discuss the Obama-Biden plan for higher education and the importance of the youth vote. You can read more about her statements and see what students at the University of Colorado thought of the Obama-Biden plan.

We were planning to compare the Obama-Biden plan with John McCain’s plan for higher education, but he doesn’t seem to have much of one. His stated plan would seek to simplify the application process for existing tax benefits and financial aid, but offers no new aid proposals or plans to make college more affordable. The Colorado Daily reported that, when contacted yesterday, "McCain campaign officials declined to discuss their candidate's stance on higher-ed issues."

That’s definitely not the change we need.

In today’s economy, a college education is more important than ever. College trains the next generation for the jobs of tomorrow, and can get today’s young people on track for achieving their own American dreams.

That’s why Barack Obama and Joe Biden have proposed creating new programs to make college more affordable for every student.

The Obama-Biden plan creates a universal and fully-refundable $4,000 Opportunity Tax Credit. This credit will cover two-thirds the cost of college tuition at the average public state university and make community college almost free for most students. In exchange for the tax credit, students would be required to contribute 100 hours of community service. In this way, the Obama-Biden plan ensures that not only do American students get a great education, they will also learn the value of serving their community.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden will also streamline the financial aid process, removing key hurdles that keep students from the aid they need. Instead of filling out a cumbersome federal financial aid form, parents would simply be able to check a box on their tax forms authorizing their tax information be used to apply for financial aid.

Obama-Biden also plan to make college more affordable by expanding Pell grants for low-income students and ensuring that Pell grants keep up with the rising costs of college inflation.

Read more about the Obama-Biden plan to make college a reality for all American students...

Republican Former Minnesota Gov. Arne Carlson Endorses Barack Obama for President

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:29:58 EDT

At a press conference at the Capitol this morning, former Republican Governor Arne Carlson endorsed Barack Obama as the best candidate to be the next president of the United States.

More than 100 Minnesotans attended his endorsement speech, in which he cited the stark contrast between Barack's steady leadership through economic crisis and Senator McCain's erratic, uncertain low-road campaign.

From the Obama campaign's press release:

Carlson, who supported John McCain during the Republican primary process, was joined at the event by U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar who was campaigning across Minnesota for Obama’s Campaign for Change on Thursday.

Carlson served as Minnesota governor from 1991-1999 and served three terms as state auditor from 1979-1991. He lives with his wife in Plymouth, MN.

“Barack Obama is the only candidate who can bring this country together to get the economy working again for middle-class families,” Carlson said. “I was hoping for a real discussion between serious candidates about how to fix this economic crisis. It had been my hope that Senator McCain would have seen the series of challenges we face as an opportunity to lead the Republican Party with fresh ideas. But, he hasn’t done that.

“Instead of offering a national vision for our nation, Senator McCain has resorted to smear tactics in an effort to scare voters and stir up the right-wing base. Senator Obama has been a remarkably disciplined and focused leader who will become a truly great president. There is no doubt that Senator Barack Obama is the right choice for president in these challenging times.”

Get the Facts, Fight the Smears

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:51:05 EDT

Heard any nasty rumors lately? Don’t ignore them – go to FightTheSmears.com and get the facts to fight back. FightTheSmears.com is our website dedicated entirely to providing facts to refute all the vicious and malicious rumors about Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

At FightTheSmears.com, you can get the facts, as well as independent analysis from truth-checking sites like Snopes.com and Factcheck.com to fight back with accurate information.

If you get a smear email, send it to watchdog@barackobama.com and help spread the truth.

"America will once again rise from the ashes of the Bushes if you give us a chance to lead"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 21:02:45 EDT

In Hibbing last night, Hillary Clinton drew on her years of public service and made a lucid observation on the choice Minnesotans have in this election.

This election is really coming down to one simple slogan. It's a slogan that embodies what Democrats stand for, what we fight for, what we believe: "Jobs, baby, jobs!" That's what it's about and that's why we need Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

With Democrats in the White House and in the Congress, we will end the tax breaks for shipping jobs overseas, we're going to start creating jobs in America again. We did it before and we can do it again.

Barack Obama has a plan to jumpstart the American economy, provide middle class tax relief, and provide quality, affordable healthcare to every American. This fact, and the reality that on every one of these issues John McCain is disturbingly out of touch with middle class families, was not lost on Hillary:

Senator McCain has repeatedly said that "the fundamentals of our economy are strong."

Well, maybe they are if you're looking through rose-colored glasses. But if you're living with both feet on the ground

and you're going in and out of people's homes and you're listening to what's on your minds, there isn't any way you could reach that conclusion.

But to George Bush and John McCain the middle class isn't fundamental, it's ornamental. They don't understand that if you don't have a strong and prosperous middle class, we will not have a strong and prosperous America.

"The evidence is clear," continued Hillary, a champion for working families in her own right, "Barack Obama and the Democrats are for you. And that's why I hope you will be for the DFL candidates up and down the ballot to delivver the change we need."

Folks in Minnesota are struggling to cope with a failing economy and looking for real leadership from the next President. Since President Bush has taken office, health care costs have risen 4.3 times faster than average wages in Minnesota, and over 430,000 Minnesota residents – and over 45 million nationally – lack health insurance today.

The situation in Minnesota is just a microcosm of what's happening across the country, a situation which will only get worse if John McCain is allowed to continue the failed policies of the last eight years.

That's why we have to take action to prevent that from happening:

There isn't anybody who really thinks we could survive the next 4 years if they're like the last 8 years and recognize our country. The income inequality will continue to expand, people will start losing their hope and their belief in the American dream.

I know that you probably have friends and even families, coworkers and neighbors who are not yet decided; who may even be thinking of voting for the McCain-Palin ticket.

That dog don't hunt anymore. You can't keep rewarding the same bad policies and expect to get anything better.

"So I hope each and everyone of you will go out and talk to those who are yet undecided. Maybe try to persuade those you think are heading in the wrong direction," added Hillary.

Join the tens of thousands of volunteers across Minnesota who have responded to Barack's call to service. You can phonebank, go door-to-door, volunteer in your Campaign for Change office, or even clean up a local park or roadway in your community.

It's all about making change in your community, and we're proud that you're making a difference.

Or, as Hillary put it in Hibbing last night: "This is our moment, this is our time."

TOMORROW: Sen. Klobuchar, Jeff Blodgett to Hold Change We Need Events Across Minnesota

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:17:19 EDT

With less than two weeks until Election Day, Senator Amy Klobuchar and Obama’s Minnesota state director Jeff Blodgett will make four campaign stops across Minnesota to make the case for change to undecided Minnesota voters.

Events will be held in St. Paul, St Cloud, Grand Rapids and Virginia to highlight Senator Obama’s comprehensive plans to restore the economy and lead our country in the 21st century.

The day’s events will kick off at 10 AM at the State Capitol in St. Paul on Thursday. With undecided voters making their decisions over the next few days, these events will speak to independent voters who are concerned with the direction of our economy and are fed up with the viscous attacks and smear tactics being used in the campaign.

Jeff Blodgett explains:

Undecided voters are starting to make their choices and they are seeing a stark contrast between the two candidates for President. Senator McCain has been erratic and out of touch in the face of a serious economic crisis, while Barack Obama has shown strong and steady leadership.

As Minnesotans have struggled to deal with the economic crisis, the McCain campaign has stooped to the worst kind of smear tactics that our political process has to offer and Minnesotans are just fed up. Minnesotans want to hear about how we’ll get out of this economic mess, not more negativity and dishonesty.

Here are the details:

St. Paul
Senator Amy Klobuchar
State Capitol
Room B-15

Program Begins: 10:00 AM

St. Cloud
Economic Round Table
East Side VFW
104 Franklin Avenue Northeast
St. Cloud, MN

Program Begins: 12:00 PM

Grand Rapids
Canvass Kickoff
Grand Rapids Campaign for Change Office
809 NE 4th Street
Grand Rapids, MN

Program Begins: 4:00 PM

Virginia
House Party
Home of Paul Cerkvenik
817 S 5th Avenue
Virginia, MN

Program Begins: 5:30 PM

Focus on the Issues: Taxes

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 16:41:43 EDT

America’s middle class is struggling. We know you need a break. That’s why Barack Obama has introduced a new tax plan to give much-needed relief to ordinary Americans.

Obama’s tax plan will cut taxes for 95 percent of American workers – with a tax cut of $1000 for working families. Families making less than $250,000 will see a substantial tax cut under the Obama-Biden plan. And, on average, ordinary Americans will get a tax cut more than three times greater than what they might get under John McCain.

Families making more than $250,000 will pay taxes at the same rate – or lower – than they did under Ronald Reagan. And senior citizens making less than $50,000 per year will not pay any income taxes at all.

Visit taxcut.barackobama.com to calcualte your tax cut.

Finally, the Obama-Biden plan will help businesses grow by eliminating capital gains taxes for small businesses, cutting corporate taxes for firms that invest and create jobs in the United States, and providing tax credits to reward innovation and job creation.

On the other hand, John McCain has some different ideas about taxes. McCain’s tax plan gives Big Oil a $4 billion tax break while leaving more than 101 million Americans with no relief at all. And McCain’s health care plan would tax heath benefits for the first time in history – forcing American families to pay more.

This election is too important to get distracted by personal attacks. Focus on the issues.

Visit www.barackobama.com/taxes/ to learn more about the Obama-Biden plan, and go to JohnMcCainRecord.com to see how McCain’s plan compares.

"You deserve better than you've been delievered the last eight years"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:45:39 EDT

Yesterday, Iron Range gave the type of hometown welcome its famous for when nearly 5000 people welcomed Senator Hillary Clinton to Hibbing.

Folks started lining up as early as 3 o'clock for their chance to hear Hillary outline Barack's vision for the kind of change Minnesota needs.

As Hillary looked out at the audience in the Hibbing Memorial Arena, she noted that the folks gathered there were "people who have been at the core of making America safe and making America work."

Just as the iron ore that made the steel enabled us to win these conflicts, Minnesota's Iron Range casts the votes that made the difference in statewide campaigns that elected John F. Kennedy, Hubert Humphrey, Walter Mondale.

You have given more than your iron ore, your steel, and your votes. You have sacrificed for America... Northeastern Minnesota had the highest per capita enlistment rate in WWII, one of the highest in other conflicts after the Great War, and many of you, your children, and loved ones have served and proudly serve today. Our nation owes you a great gratitude. The working men and women of Northeastern Minnesota--the miners, the loggers, the building trades, the steelworkers, the teachers, the laborers--people who have worked for yourselves and your family, your community, and your country.

And you deserve better than what you've been delivered the last eight years by the Republican leadership in Washington.

Among the veterans in the crowd was retired U.S. Marine Breanna Osterhoudt, who wants to see change in the veterans benefits.

"We'll, I'm here because I'm a strong supporter of Hillary Clinton and Obama. I served four years in the United States Marine Corps, and I think we need a change.

Barack has a plan to help our veterans. The Obama-Biden plan will strengthen VA care by fully funding the VA and improving care for polytrauma vision impairment, prosthetics, spinal cord injury, aging, and women's health. Learn more about the Obama-Biden plan for veterans here.

Hillary spoke of the important role the next thirteen days play in determining whether the country continues down the same course or charts a new course in a new direction:

In these next days, people will be reaching a decision that will impact America for years to come. This is truly a fight for the future and its a fight we must win, and its a fight we have waged and won before.

Yes, times may be tough, but we're tougher than the times and you need to look no further than the hardworking, nation-serving, patriotic people of the Iron Range and Northern Minnesota.

With such a short time left, we need everyone to get involved and make phone calls, and canvass as part of our grassroots campaign for change.

As Hillary said last night, "So my friends, this is our moment, this is our time... Let's go win the election and change America!"

Make Calls Tonight

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 10:20:20 EDT

One-on-one conversations with voters could be what wins the election for Barack. A lot of voters are still undecided and need to know the change Barack is going to bring to Washington.

Most importantly, they need to know why you support Barack. By taking the time to talk to someone and tell them your story you could persuade someone to vote for Barack.

One of the easiest ways to talk to other people is by using our online Neighbor-to-Neighbor tool. This allows you to call voters in Minnesota and talk to them about the issues you care about. Whether it's the economy, education, social security or the war in Iraq, many other Americans are struggling and facing the same situations that you are. Tell them why you are voting for Barack and how we can fix the problems this country is facing.

Volunteers in neighboring Wisconsin recently recorded a short video with some tips on how to phonebank. It's simple and easy, even if you've never phonebanked before.

Call time (suggested time to call voters) is Monday thru Friday 5-9pm CST.

What are you doing tonight?

Take some time out to call voters and tell them about Barack. There are only 13 days left to win the election. As Barack says, keep pushing toward the finish line.

Letters from the Field: Kandiyohi

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 09:05:38 EDT

Across Minnesota, something is stirring. Folks are tired of the failed policies of the last eight years, and hungry to see America move in a new direction.

Jeanie from Kandiyohi writes to the West Central Tribune:

A couple bought a duplex house. After a few years the husband died. Then the wife had to reside and reroof the house. She said the person who handled it lied to her and to the banker. When it was refinanced she owed twice as much as the house originally cost.

Her renter fell down some steps at work. Because they would not pay her workman’s comp, she came to owe $6,000. At that time she was asked to leave. Her son and his friend rented the house.

Then the wife found out that she had lymphoma. This cancer is not curable but can go into remission. Although she had insurance where she worked, she had to pay so much to the hospital that she was behind.

At first she figured she would die but then she went into remission. It was shortly before her time off the job, fighting to recover would have been too long and she would have lost her job.
She did go back to work but gave up on keeping the house and quit making payments.

Then her daughter with three children lost her job at Head Start because the program was shut down. She came to the house to live. Her mother already had plans to move into her sister’s small house but the daughter has decided to stay there until she is kicked out. She is now working at Target for $7 an hour.

Her son graduates next spring so she is trying to stay in that school district until then.

We need to change things after the last eight years of war, and the rich getting richer and the middle class getting poor.

Please, please change the dynamics of this country by voting for Barack Obama for president.

Jeanie Thorpe

Kandiyohi

What are you doing this weekend? Sign up to help "Get Out the Vote" for Barack. Our on the ground effort is critical in the next two weeks. We only have 13 days left to persuade undecided voters.

Focus on the Issues: Women's Issues

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 20:02:54 EDT

Barack Obama has led as a champion of women’s rights – from advocating fair pay, to preventing violence against women, to protecting the right to choose.

Despite decades of progress, American women still make only 77 cents for every dollar a man makes. Barack supported the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which would allow women to sue for pay discrimination if they discovered they were paid less because of their gender. Barack will also help women in the workplace by expanding paid sick leave, giving women the ability to take a few days to stay home if their children get sick.

Barack has been a tireless advocate of preventing violence against women. Barack introduced legislation to combat domestic violence by providing services to families affected by domestic violence. Barack also supported the landmark Violence Against Women Act, originally sponsored by Joe Biden, which establishes sexual assault services programs and helps police and communities combat domestic abuse.

Finally, Barack is committed to protecting a woman’s right to choose, and is a strong supporter of Roe v. Wade. He co-sponsored legislation to expand access to contraception, health information and preventive services to help reduce unintended pregnancies.

John McCain’s record speaks for itself on women’s issues. McCain wants to overturn Roe v. Wade and would ban all abortions – even in cases of rape or incest. McCain has opposed number domestic violence bills, including the Violence Against Women Act, which has saved the lives of countless women. And McCain opposed legislation that would help women receive equal pay for equal work.

But don’t take our word for it -- do your research. The facts speak for themselves: Barack is the smart choice for America's women.

Learn more at about Barack’s record on women’s issues. And check out John McCain’s record on JohnMcCainRecord.com.

New to the site or still undecided? Learn more about Barack Obama and his position on important issues. If you're already a supporter, find out what you can do to help between now and Election Day.

TODAY: "Change We Need" Rally with Hillary Clinton

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 09:52:17 EDT

This evening, Senator Hillary Clinton visits the Iron Range to host a "Change We Need" rally in Hibbing.

Here are the details:

Change We Need Rally with Senator Hillary Clinton

Memorial Arena
400 East 23 Street
Hibbing, MN 55746

Tuesday, October 21st
Doors Open: 6:00 p.m.
RSVP Online at: http://my.barackobama.com/mnhrchibbing

The event is free and open to the public; tickets are not required but an RSVP is encouraged. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yesterday, Hillary joined Barack on stage at a rally in Florida. This is the first time Barack and Hillary have campaigned together since the summer.

The Clintons have been campaigning for the Obama-Biden with increasing regularity in the past weeks, as the election draws near. Hillary and her husband Bill Clinton both appeared with Joe Biden at a Rally in Scranton Pennsylvania just last week. "This is a mad dash to the finish line,” Hillary said.

Check out the pictures of Hillary and Barack from yesterday and join us for a rally with Hillary Clinton later tonight:

TOMORROW: Hillary Clinton Headlines "Change We Need" Rally in Hibbing

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:25:22 EDT

Tomorrow evening, Hillary Clinton returns to Minnesota for a "Change We Need" rally in Hibbing at the Memorial Arena. The doors open at 6 p.m., and you can RSVP online at http://MN.BarackObama.com/HibbingChange.

Earlier this month, Hillary, Joe, his wife Jill, and President Clinton appeared together in Scraton. Here's what Joe said about Hillary:

She's more than just a fighter. I don't know many fighters who fight not just from their head but from their gut. She's always fighting against the abuse of power.

Hillary was raised in a middle-class family in the middle of America, and went on to become one of the nation's foremost advocates for children and families, a best-selling author, and a champion for women's rights and human rights around the world.

In Scranton, Hillary talked about how important it is that we elect Barack & Joe on November 4th, and how we all have to do everything we can to reach out to everyone we know over the next few days:

Bill was talking about how he and I have been involved in presidential politics since 1968 - 10 presidential elections and Democrats have only won 3 of them. And of course Bill won 2 out of the 3.

That’s why you have to leave here committed and ready to go to work. You have to talk to your friends and neighbors. I know you have friends and neighbors who aren’t decided yet. I know you have friends and neighbors, and maybe even some family members who are not decided yet. You might even have a few leaning the wrong direction.

So I am deputizing every one of you to go out and make the case because Barack and Joe are not asking you to marry them. They are asking you to vote for them - and vote for yourselves.

So, do you know what you have to do? Rally with Hillary, talk to your friends and neighbors, and help get out the vote for Barack and Joe!

"The rest is up to us"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:20:30 EDT

Barack has been campaigning for 20 months now. For 20 months he has traveled across the country, from state to state, talking to voters and talking about the change that he will bring to Washington. He'll continue traveling and campaigning over the next 16 days, but now it comes down to us.

When Michelle was in Minnesota last week, she explained to the gathered crowd that while Barack has gotten us 85% of the way there, the rest is up to us. We have to knock on doors, call voters, volunteer and most importantly, vote.

We are still in a fight, and the next weeks are going to be crucial to our Get Out The Vote effort. Which is why we need our supporters on the ground to be working as hard as they can over the next 17 days to win.

This is the most important election of our lifetimes, and we can't afford to sit on the sidelines. Sign up to help "Get Out the Vote" for Barack between now and Election Day.

Signs of Change: The Iron Range 2

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:24:44 EDT

Tomorrow, Senator Hillary Clinton visits the Iron Range to talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of we need.

Signs of change are popping up across the Range, including the sign below:

There are only three Mondays left before Election Day. What are you doing today?

TUESDAY: Hillary Clinton in Hibbing at 7 p.m.

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 14:04:35 EDT

Please join us Tuesday, October 21st, for a rally with Senator Hillary Clinton in Hibbing:

Change We Need Rally with Senator Hillary Clinton

Memorial Arena
400 East 23 Street
Hibbing, MN 55746

Tuesday, October 21st
Doors Open: 6:00 p.m.

RSVP online at: http://mn.barackobama.com/HibbingChange

The event is free and open to the public; tickets are not required but an RSVP is encouraged. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

"All that they have left"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 12:25:05 EDT

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

It was McCain himself who denounced these underhanded and cowardly tactics as "hate calls" after a rash of them helped sink his primary campaign in 2000. The perpetrator behind those attacks: George W. Bush.

If you or your family and friends have received one of these calls, you can help us fight back by reporting it. Documenting these calls is the only way the full extent of the McCain campaign's negative tactics will ever be known by voters across the country.

In talking about the election endgame, Stepen Rose from the Huffington Post wrote:

If Barack Obama becomes president, it will be because of grass roots organization. The people who will make the difference on November 4 are the paid and volunteer organizers of the Obama-Biden campaign.

It will be the work you do on the ground these next 17 days that will make the difference, because honest, person to person contact is more powerful than a deceptive, automated phonecall. But as FiveThirtyEight reported while on the road in western Pennsylvania:

From what we've seen, this IS the McCain ground campaign. Robocalls count as "touches" on voters, as do direct mail pieces such as this one. As David Plouffe said in today's fundraising letter to supporters, "These tactics are all that the McCain campaign and their allies have left."

St. Cloud Times Endorsement: Our view: Obama and Biden are best choice for America

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 12:17:12 EDT

From the St. Cloud Times:

This is one of several Our Views offering the Times Editorial Board’s opinion on Election Day races and issues. Endorsements reflect the majority view of the board. Members are Times Media President and Publisher Bill Albrecht, Executive Editor John Bodette, Opinion Page Editor Randy Krebs, Times Media employee representative Mark Hessler and community representative Dorrie Larison.

Central Minnesotans who see all things through red or blue lenses long ago decided their votes for president. Knowing that, the past six months — and especially the next two weeks — are about determining which candidate will best serve moderate voters and middle-class Americans.

We believe that’s Barack Obama.

While both he and John McCain propose some solutions lacking the details that should be evident after an almost-two-year campaign, Obama delivers a more consistent, less partisan message. Most importantly, he offers a vision decidedly different from what’s come from the White House the past eight years.

McCain, despite his heroic military record and self-proclaimed maverick label, has a senatorial voting record and presidential platform that do little to inspire confidence in substantial change.

And while there are plenty of issue-based differences upon which to base decisions, we must note that McCain’s recent decision to ramp up negative personal attacks are far removed from the spirit of the political principles he seemed to embrace and reflect up to this point in his career.

Still, the issues are what should help voters decide on Election Day. Among those that we believe would appeal to moderates and yield substantive changes are Obama’s economic plan, especially its focus on tax cuts for low- and moderate-income families. There is little argument that the thrust of McCain’s plan rests in continuing tax breaks for the wealthiest 1 percent.

Both candidates also have campaigned heavily on health care reform, but the majority of nonpartisan analysis of each plan seems to conclude that applying precise cost and benefit measures is difficult because both lack details. Amid that, the focus probably needs to be on providing affordable access to middle- and low-income Americans — something that seems more likely (but, yes, expensive) under Obama’s plan.

As for overall government spending, the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget determined Obama and McCain are proposing policies that would increase the federal deficit. And yes, Obama’s efforts come with a higher price tag and potential need to increase some taxes. But analysts also note that McCain’s plans would require cutting government spending 25 percent — something clearly unrealistic given the past eight years.

Finally, the choice of running mates must be noted. In Joe Biden, Obama picked a person whose credentials primarily address potential concerns about foreign policy under an Obama administration. In Sarah Palin, McCain picked a person whose sole mission is clearly to inflame already-partisan crowds leading up to Election Day.

Moderate Americans should recognize the impact behind those approaches and elect Obama. He’s the best chance at changing the direction of the White House, perhaps the country, in the next four years.

Joe Biden: My wife

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 10:08:22 EDT

Joe sent out the email below last night....

My wife Jill is an extraordinary woman.

Jill's passion has always been education, and even during the campaign she's been teaching class during the week and joining me on the trail on the weekends. But this week, she also found some time to go to campaign headquarters and call voters in crucial battleground states.

Jill has always had a great time talking to potential supporters, and I'm sure her calls brought Barack and me a few votes closer to victory.

But you live in a battleground state, which means you're in a unique position to talk to swing voters face-to-face. Will you reach out to potential supporters in your community by going door-to-door?

Watch this video of my wife reaching out to swing voters -- then get a list of voters near you and start knocking on doors today.

With the conventions and the debates behind us, this election is now in your hands.

Reaching out to swing voters is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference right now.

No matter how many rallies Barack and I hold or speeches we give, supporters like you talking to fellow voters one-on-one is the way we're going to win this election.

Get your list of supporters today and knock on doors this weekend:

http://MN.barackobama.com/n2nMN

Thanks for everything you're doing,

Joe

P.S. -- Can't talk to voters this weekend? Sign up to make calls for the campaign later this week.

Phonebanking Latinos

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 16:56:06 EDT

Daily Kos user homunq blogged about his experience using the Neighbor-to-Neighbor tool to share Barack's message of change with Minnesota Latinos.

Jam

I've been phonebanking Minnesota Latinos on my.barackobama.com today, and I can report that it is definitely worth it. Sure, you get your share of wrong numbers, and plenty of message machines (I leave messages in English, and make sure to mention Al Franken). And when you get a real person who speaks English, they mostly have their mind made up or don't want to talk to you.
But when you get a real person who prefers Spanish, they tend to be really open. These are busy people, and they don't pay a lot of attention to politics. I am a bit wonky in my presentation, I'm not a salesman, but just a few facts about Obama and McCain are enough to get people to say "well then, it sounds as if I'll be voting for Obama" every time.

Have you had a similar experience? Share it with us!

There's just 18 days left... do you have a phone?

Campaigns are about how you finish

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 11:31:11 EDT

Earlier today, DFL Associate Chair, Donna Cassutt sent out the email below promoting the Campaign for Change's Get-Out-The-Vote (GOTV) effort...

In 17 short days, Minnesotans will go to the polls to vote in the most historic election of our time. That is, of course, if they are asked. We know that the number one reason people don’t vote is that no one asked them to.

Will you join me in these final few days of the campaign and ask our fellow Minnesotans to join us at the polls on November 4?

This weekend, we are pleased to launch a new website, www.gotvforchange.com. In the final days leading up to Election Day, we’ll need thousands of volunteers to fill thousands of shifts as we Get Out the Vote in all corners of Minnesota. We’ll be walking door to door and calling our neighbors, encouraging them to vote for the entire DFL ticket.

Visit www.gotvforchange.com right now to sign up.

Many of you have been working hard during a very long campaign. You've been incredible. You might be tired. You might be thinking it’s someone else’s turn to help out. You might think that we’re going to win. But we can’t give up now.

Campaigns are about how we finish and we're almost there. No one will remember how many doors we knocked on or how many phone calls we made if Senator Obama doesn’t win Minnesota. But when he does, because of your efforts, we will know that we pushed to the end to make it happen. Let’s keep pushing.

I’m fired up and ready to go. Are you? Click here to sign up right now.

We need your help to encourage our neighbors to go to the polls in the final days of this campaign. We know the most effective way to motivate voters is by calling them or visiting with them on their doorstep. Whether you can volunteer a few hours or several days, it is critical to our success that you sign up now to talk with your neighbors to ensure Minnesotans vote for change on November 4.

You might say – well, I don’t want to wait until the weekend before Election Day to start helping. Excellent. We have offices throughout Minnesota that are up and running day and night right now and we’d love to have you stop by and pitch in.

Click here to find an office near you .

Thank you so much for all you do, and will do to help get out the vote. With your efforts, we will elect Senator Barack Obama as the next President of the United States, send Al Franken to the Senate, elect three new Democratic members of Congress and secure a veto-proof majority in the Minnesota House. With your help, the DFL will win – up and down the ballot – in all corners of the state.

Sincerely,

Donna Cassutt
Associate Chair
Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party

P.S. There is too much at stake to stay home. It will take each and every one of us to do our part to achieve victory on November 4. Please visit www.gotvforchange.com to sign up now.

Obama defeats McCain in burger ballot

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 10:46:36 EDT

After handily defeating John McCain in the St. Paul Saints "Bobblection" in August, Barack Obama has another title under his belt: winner of the Gordy's Hi-Hat "Burger Ballot"

The Cloquet Pine Journal has the story:

Carlton County residents watching the debate Wednesday night may have had a craving for a cheeseburger.

Unfortunately for them, the reason behind the urge – Gordy’s Hi-Hat in Cloquet – closed for the season Sunday.

For 17 days before closing, the restaurant’s patrons could put their votes where their mouths were – and receive a discount – by ordering either an Obama cheeseburger or a McCain cheeseburger. The burgers were made exactly in the same way; only the names were different.

“When we took orders, we’d write their vote on the back of each ticket,” Lundquist explained. “At the end of each day my father, Gordy, would tally up the votes.”

The final count – 57 percent for Sen. Barack Obama and 43 percent for Sen. John McCain – followed national polling statistics. Lundquist said he wasn’t surprised.

Lundquist also said although his customer base is made up of mostly Carlton County residents, approximately 45 percent of weekend traffic coming through town is from the Twin Cities, as well as from points farther north.

“So, I think we had a pretty broad base of people voting,” he said.

Business spiked during the promotion and things really heated up after news of the gimmick spread to the blogging world.

Call them voracious political animals.

When combined with Barack's resounding victories in the cookie poll and the Bobblection, it begins to add up to a sweeping victory in the bellwether food and knick-knack elections.

And in 17 days, Minnesotans will have their opportunity to cast ballots in the one election that will determine whether Americans get a president who will deliver change we can believe in, or for more years of the same failed policies of the last eight.

Will you have done all that you could have?

On the ground in Minnesota

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 21:18:52 EDT

With 18 days left until Election Day, the Minnesota Campaign for Change is doing the kind of work that wins elections--talking to voters on the doors and on the phone.

Last week, we opened several new offices in St. Paul--Midway, Shakopee, and North Minneapolis, bringing our total to 34 spread across Minnesota. Organizers in the office will work with supporters in the community to build support for Barack and other local candidates.

All across Minnesota this weekend, including at the new offices, volunteers will hit the streets and the phone lines to talk to voters about how an Obama-Biden administration will restore the American economy and provide the change we need. Visit one of our thirty-four offices around Minnesota to join this incredible movement for change! Barack needs you - who this campaign is all about!

Here are just some of the events happening tomorrow (you can click here to find an event in your area):

Saturday, October 18th
Princeton Canvass!! W/ Special Guest Con. Jim Oberstar!!!
Saturday, October 18 @ 9:45 AM
Princeton DFL Office (Princeton, MN)

Columbia Heights Door Knock for Change
Shifts begin at @ 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM (2 shifts)
Kordiak Park (Minneapolis, MN)

Door Knocking in Duluth
Saturday, October 18 @ 10:00 AM
Duluth Obama Campaign Office (Duluth, MN)

Eastside St. Paul for Barack Obama Canvass
Saturday, October 18 @ 10:00 AM
Burger King (Saint Paul, MN)

Fairmont Canvass
Saturday, October 18 Shifts begin at 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM (2 shifts)
Martin Co Library (Fairmont, MN)

Rochester Saturday Phone Bank
Saturday, October 18 Shifts begin at @ 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM, & 6:00 PM (3 shifts)
DFL/Obama Office (Rochester, MN)

Hastings Canvass For Change
Saturday, October 18 @ 10:00 AM
Dunn Brothers Coffee (Hastings, MN)

Litchfield Walk for Barack
Saturday, October 18 Shifts begin at 10:00 AM, & 3:00 PM (2 shifts)
Cricket Meadow (Litchfield, MN)

Apple Valley Canvass for Change (Saturday)
Saturday, October 18 @ 10:00 PM
Cub Foods Parking Lot (Apple Valley, MN)

Richfield Walk for Barack
Saturday, October 18 Shifts begin at at 2:00 PM, 10:00 PM (2 shifts)
Richfield Office (Richfield, MN)

Owatonna Door Knock and Meet and Greet with Al Franken
Saturday, October 18 12:00 PM
Starbucks/OwatonnaVFW (Owatonna, MN)

Check out some more pictures from the Midway office opening with special guest Congressman Keith Ellison and Congresswoman Betty McCollum below:

Quotable kids

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:00:34 EDT

In the words of Senator Obama, the "Obama for America Campaign is a different type of campaign."

For the first time in campaign history, children ages 12 and under, have a place to go and actually vote—through their voice. What a great way to be introduced to politics and to express your support for Senator Obama.

The Superior Telegram talked with students in Ms. Krull’s fourth-grade class at Great Lakes Elementary School.

Here's what some of them had to say:

Matt:

I want Obama because he wants to cut taxes for the middle class and raise taxes for the higher class. With McCain, I don’t want Palin because she doesn’t have the best ideas I don’t think. And I like Obama because he wants to take troops out of Iraq. McCain wants to increase troops in Iraq.
Most important issues of election: change, the economy and the war in Iraq.

Blake:

I like Obama because I think he’ll be better for our country than McCain. I like McCain; I like his ideas, some of them, but I don’t think he has what it takes to be president. And if he dies, which he could any minute now, we have the Sarah Palin campaign going on. I don’t think she could really do it because she’s only been governor of Alaska for like two years. She doesn’t impress me that well.
[McCain] wants to unravel heath care. I don’t want another George Bush.
Most important issues of election: the economy.

Natalie:

I want Obama to be elected because he’s a democrat, and I’m kind of an independent. So is my mom, but my dad’s more of a democrat. But Obama, I think he’d be a better president because he stands for things that are a little better than McCain. McCain has good ideas, but not as good as Obama. He (Obama) wants to lower gas prices and help us with the economy and stuff. He wants to give heath insurance, so that’s why I like Obama.
Most important issues of election: taxes and health care insurance.

Are you a Kid for Obama, like Natalie, Matt, and Blake? If your family isn't already supporting Barack, it's time for you to have "The Talk."

On every issue important to kids and families--the economy, taxes, health care, or the war in Iraq--Barack has the vision to bring about the change we need.

Family members talking to one another about Barack is one of the ways this movement has grown so large. Even if your parents are already convinced, talk to your grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

You may be the only one who can convince them.

American Hunters and Shooters Association founder: Obama will protect gun rights

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 10:29:11 EDT

Photo Credit: Bemidji Pioneer - Submitted photo

Ray Schoenke, the founder and president of the American Hunters and Shooters Association, is in Minnesota talking to rural Minnesotans about Barack's respect of the rights of sportsmen and women and the Obama-Biden plan to restore the economy.

From the Bemidji Pioneer:

Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama won’t take away Americans’ guns, says the head of the American Hunters and Shooters Association.

“We’re a gun rights organization and we are stating Obama’s not going to take away your guns,” Ray Schoenke, who is founder and president of the AHSA, said in an interview Thursday night.

Last summer, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled a Washington, D.C., total ban on handguns as unconstitutional. In overturning the ban, Justice Antonin Scalia said that “the individual right is confirmed, that law-abiding citizens have the right to own a gun,” Schoenke said.

“That pretty well set the issue aside,” he said. “He basically said government cannot confiscate your guns. Congress cannot enact laws that can take your guns away. Which means Obama can’t take your guns away, nor can McCain. That whole issue is over with.”

Coming up with laws for rural American and for urban centers “takes away their fear issue,” he said of the NRA. “To me, it’s misrepresentation, distortions and lies. It’s the only thing they have. It’s unfortunate that McCain and Palin buy into it.”

“The gun rights issue is behind us and conservation is important,” he said. “Obama is ahead of McCain, and I think he’s clearly ahead when it comes to the economy. That’s why I strongly urge hunters and shooters throughout Minnesota to look to Obama and support him.”

Rather than relying on attack ads and distractions, Barack is focused on dealing with the economic challenges Americans are facing.

Barack will give tax cuts to 95% of middle class families. He'll end the tax breaks for companies shipping jobs overseas, and put them where they belong by cutting taxes on small businesses that grow local economies.

But we need your help to make sure people know the truth, and are focused on all the issues.

Log on to My.barackobama.com to get involved. Be sure to check out the brand new “Neighbor to Neighbor” canvassing campaign that makes it easy to reach out to voters in your own neighborhood.

Letters from the Field: "Rally's positive tone is welcome"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 08:22:28 EDT

Preston Hollister of Rochester writes to the Post Bulletin:

As an independently thinking voter who tries to apply Christian principles in the political process, I was heartened by the positive tone of the Michelle Obama rally Monday.
I was sitting next to an enthusiastic young woman of color on one side, a 30-year-old pierced male student from St. Cloud on the other, with a retired friend self-described as a McCain supporter in front of me -- a white 50-year-old male.
Michelle encouraged us to support her husband (of course) but went on to ask that we pray for this election and all stay involved in the process of government after Nov. 4. Government of all the people, for the people, and by the people under God is what we need with the current economic and global challenges we face.
Preston Hollister
Rochester

In the past few months, people across Minnesota have begun the real differences between candidates in this election, and they've begun to respond.

The election ends in 18 days. On November 5th, will you have done all that you could have?

Albert Lea Tribune Endorses Barack Obama for President

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 20:16:37 EDT

The Albert Lea Tribune writes "Obama is a clear pick for president"..

Illinois Sen. Barack Obama deserves your vote for president of the United States.

His vision for a better country includes nation building — the United States of America. His opponent, Arizona Sen. John McCain, has a motto of “Country First,” but his policies seem to be more like country club first.

Obama wants to implement domestic policies that make a difference in the lives of ordinary people, such as improving the inefficient health care system, taking proper care of veterans, ending the war in Iraq and bolstering the federal student loan program.

His plan for taxes makes the wealthy Americans shoulder their fair burden for government and lessens the burden on everyday folks. The past 30 years has pushed more and more tax burden onto the middle class, while oil companies, drug companies and other special interests line their pockets. It’s time for that to stop. It’s time for a president who comes from lower- or middle-class people, a president who relates to average Americans.

McCain says he is different than President Bush. To be sure, he is. Either McCain or Obama would be better than Bush. No matter who wins, America is better off.

Even so, McCain represents corporate interests. He still calls for tax cuts for the rich and thinks it will solve the economic crisis. Even wealthy investor Warren Buffet favors Obama’s economic plan.

Further, electing Obama also sends a message to the rest of the world that Americans want to heal the international rift caused by the go-it-alone Bush administration.

Look at leadership, too. Obama mulls choices before making them. In Delaware Sen. Joe Biden, Obama picked a vice president. McCain made a rushed and amateurish choice in Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin. He picked a running mate, not a vice president.

McCain once seemed his own man but allowing the Karl Rove gang into his campaign only has made him look like part of the same Republican machine that is to blame for the problems of the past eight years. What happened to straight talk?

Obama leads a campaign staff that works well as a team and has come a long way in two years. He is a natural leader.

It seems some of the great presidents have reached across party lines and even appointed members of the other party in their cabinets. Two are Ronald Reagan and Franklin Roosevelt. Obama seems willing to do the same. This Democrat is not as partisan as past candidates in the national stage. He is the right choice for America.

TUESDAY: Sen. Hillary Clinton to Campaign for Obama on the Iron Range

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:23:50 EDT

The Obama campaign just announced that Hillary Clinton will campaign for Barack and Joe up on the Iron Range next week.

ST. PAUL – U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton will hold a public rally for Barack Obama’s presidential campaign next Tuesday evening on the Iron Range.
Sen. Clinton will speak with Minnesotans about her trust in Sen. Obama’s steady leadership and ability to turn around our economic crisis. Sen. Clinton will discuss the current crisis and the leadership required to bring the change we need.

More details will be announced in the coming days.

Hillary said it best in Scranton last week:

Barack Obama and Joe Biden are for you and that’s why I am for Barack Obama and Joe Biden.
My friends, this is an all-hands-on-deck moment for America. We’ve got to work hard and we’ve got to work together. This is a fight for the future and it is a fight we must win.

All hands-on-deck!

Let's change this country!

"Me and My Moma Are For Obama"

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:40:00 EDT

Last weekend, a group of "Mamas for Obama" used the my.barackobama.com grassroots organizing tool to set up a playdate with their kids at their neighborhood park.

From the beginning, this campaign has been about everyday people stepping up to make change happen in their own communities. As Barack said today in Londonberry, NH:

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

Barack was raised by a single mother who put herself through school, followed her passion for helping others, and taught Barack that there are no barriers to success if you are willing to work for it.

His grandmother, who also helped to raise him, worked on a bomber assembly line during World War II. Michelle, Barack's wife, has been described as "the rock of the Obama family." She and Barack want their two daughters, Malia and Sasha, to grow up in an America where both work and family are part of the American Dream.

All of Barack's accomplishments have been made possible because of these women. And it is because of these women that Barack fights for women's rights. He fights for healthcare and education, support for working parents and an insistence on equality.

These are the issues that are important to the women who support Barack -- women who come from all types of backgrounds, and who are united by care for their families and their communities.

We can turn the page on the last eight years and create a better world for our children, but we need your help. By talking with your neighbors about Barack's plan for women and families you can help bring change to Minnesota and to America.

This election is too important to sit on the sidelines -- so get out there, and get started!

Check out the pictures from the "Mamas for Obama" playdate and share your photos with us:

Minnesota Barks for Barack

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 10:14:38 EDT

The St. Paul headquarters of the Minnesota Obama campaign had a special visitor on Monday.

The time to get involved is now. the strength and success of Barack's campaign for change in Minnesota depends on you. Sign up to attend a volunteer orientation at your local office this weekend.

Letters from the Field: Wadena

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:46:39 EDT

Kris Tesch of Wadena writes in the Pioneer Journal:

Change is coming! Enough is enough! I am tired of trying to make it from paycheck to paycheck only to find myself out of money before my next paycheck — struggling to get my sick child to his medical appointments in the Cities and putting food in his stomach, a roof over his head, clothes on his back and warmth in the cold. My child comes before me in anything! My needs are not being met because I am struggling to give him what he needs. One income in a household can’t possibly make ends meet. My husband works many overtime hours including Saturdays so we can try to make it. And it is not enough. I am disabled and can’t work, but I had to get a job this summer to help and then I find out that I am over-doing it and making myself weaker and sicker. I have had to set my illness aside and peel myself out of bed in the morning to go to work even if the pain is unbearable. I invite you to walk in my shoes for a while.

My husband and I have needs, too, but we have to put our needs aside to get our son what he needs and to pay the bills. You don’t see us together out in the evening because we can’t afford to go. We have lived here for six years now and we like our little town but we have yet to go out to the movies or to dine in one of the eateries or go to mingle with our friends and neighbors in our community because we can’t afford it. We don’t even have winter coat. But we don’t mind as long as our child has what he needs.

Our economy needs help, people that have invested their money or have 401(k)s (us included) can probably kiss their investments goodbye for now. Health insurance needs an overhaul so people with pre-existing conditions can still be covered and so that everyone can afford to have coverage. Social Security needs to be saved so when we retire it is there for us and our children. Medicare needs to be changed so all of our seniors and disabled can pay for their medications and see their doctors as needed. Something needs to be done so all of our children can go to college because college tuition and expenses are through the roof. Our children’s schools and education needs help. Something needs to be done with the meth, drug and alcohol problems that are a plague on our society. Do you want me to continue?

With all the promises that both candidates are making and lies about each other, who knows what and who to believe anymore. But I know one thing, I am and have been ready for a change!

Kris Tesch

Wadena

Minnesotans, like Kris, are in desperate need of economic relief

Barack's plan will cut taxes for 95% of families. John McCain will provide billions in tax breaks for big oil companies and giant corporations with no relief for millions of middle-class Americans.

Barack is calling for three times the tax cuts for middle-class families.

Find out what this means for you and your family -- use our new tax calculator and find out how much your family will save.

Yesterday, Barack unveiled his Economic Rescue Plan for The Middle Class, including special measures for job creation, a moratorium on foreclosures, and increased tax relief for families.

As president, Barack will provide a new $1,000 tax cut for workers and new tax benefits to help families pay for college, childcare, and save for retirement.

TODAY: Obama Supporters to Hold Final Presidential Debate Watch Parties

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 11:25:54 EDT

Tonight, Obama supporters across Minnesota will gather in their living rooms, union halls, and church basements, to watch the final presidental debate.

As more and more Minnesotans tune in and engate with the race, they're realizing that Barack is the steady leader we need in a time of economic turmoil.

Find a debate watch party near you or attend one of the ones below:

All Parties Start at 7:30pm

Blaine
Bella Restaurant
10950 Club West Parkway
Blaine, MN

Duluth
Featuring County Commissioner Kron and St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman
Duluth Labor Temple
2002 London Rd
Duluth, MN

Mankato
Buffalo Wild Wings Downtown
12 Civic Center Plz # 1715
Mankato, MN

Minneapolis
Featuring Jeff Blodgett
Sarna’s Classic Grill
3939 University Ave NE
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis
Home of Joe Muggli
3029 Oregon Ave S
Minneapolis, MN

Plymouth
Creekside Apts, 200
Nathan Lane N
Plymouth, MN

Rochester
Featuring State Sen. Tarryl Clark
Marriot Ballroom
101 1st Av SW
Rochester, MN

St Cloud
White Horse
809 W Saint Germain St
Saint Cloud, MN

Woodbury
Home of Charise Council
2967 Edgewater Drive
Woodbury, MN

Focus on the Issues: Seniors and Social Security

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 10:25:53 EDT

Barack said it himself: This election is all about the issues. Minnesotans are hungry for change – for better jobs, for more financial security, for a cleaner environment. And one of the most important issues in this election is Social Security and providing for our senior citizens.

With insecure retirement savings, and the skyrocketing costs of health care, housing, and energy costs, our seniors need help.

Barack Obama has a plan to help America’s senior citizens. Barack Obama and Joe Biden will protect Social Security and make sure our seniors can afford to retire. The Obama-Biden plan will expand retirement savings program and create new pension programs. And Barack’s plan will eliminate income tax altogether for seniors who make less than $50,000 per year.

The Obama-Biden plan will protect and strengthen Medicare, and allow the federal government to negotiate for cheaper drugs for the Medicare program, so seniors can afford their pills. Finally, Obama will increase funding for LIHEAP, to help seniors pay their winter heating bills.

John McCain has a different view of Social Security and seniors. McCain wants to privatizes Social Security, taking a gamble with the Social Security system on the stock market. And McCain voted against much needed-increases in Medicare funding, taking away many seniors’ only access to health care.

Minnesota's seniors just can’t afford McCain’s policies.

Learn more about the Obama-Biden plan for Seniors and Social Security. And visit JohnMcCainRecord.com to compare McCain’s stance on the issues.

Tax Calculator: How much will your family save?

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:21:46 EDT

Yesterday the Obama-Biden campaign launched an official Tax Calculator, a simple online application that lets you compare the differences between the Obama tax plan and John McCain's tax plan in seconds ...

American families are in desperate need of economic relief.

Barack's plan will cut taxes for 95% of families. John McCain will provide billions in tax breaks for big oil companies and giant corporations with no relief for millions of middle-class Americans.

Barack is calling for three times the tax cuts for middle-class families.

Find out what this means for you and your family -- use our new tax calculator:

With our country facing the most serious economic crisis since the Great Depression -- over 760,000 jobs lost this year, unemployment skyrocketing, and retirement losses exceeding $2 trillion -- we need to take immediate steps to recover.

Yesterday, Barack unveiled his Economic Rescue Plan for The Middle Class, including special measures for job creation, a moratorium on foreclosures, and increased tax relief for families.

As president, Barack will provide a new $1,000 tax cut for workers and new tax benefits to help families pay for college, childcare, and save for retirement.

Visit taxcut.barackobama.com to find out how these plans would affect you and your family -- and then share the URL with friends and family so that they can see the diffrence for themselves.

Minnesota Artists for Obama

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 20:12:36 EDT

"Our purpose today is to come together to contribute and contribute significantly to make sure Barack Obama is elected the next president of the United States."

With those words, Marian Moore opened up a night of musical entertainment, dance, and revelry at The Lab in Minneapolis hosted by Minnesota Artists for Obama.

[Tonight is the product of] three ordinary citizens who thought this election was too important to just stay on the sidelines and see what happens. So they put in their time and resources to make this happen.
The presidency for Barack Obama is within reach, and we have just 23 days. After that, the window's closed. What can we give and what can we do to make sure we wake up happy on November 5th?
We really can't afford another 4 years of an assault on everything that is good and that is beautiful in the world

The fundraiser, organized by Susan, Mary, and Jan, demonstrates the belief in the power of coming together at the grassroots level, a fundamental tenet of Barack's campaign for change.

The 250 folks who gathered to show their support for Barack, enjoyed musical performances by Adam Levy of the Honeydogs, Prairie Home Companion regulars Prudence Johnson and Dan Chouinard, and John Munson and Matt Wilson of The Twilight Hours. Rhythmic Circus, a local tap dancing troupe, also performed.

Jeff Blodgett, the Obama campaign's Minnesota State Director, spoke with passion about Barack Obama:

The McCain campaign keeps asking the question, "Who is Barack Obama?"
But we know who he is, we know the answer. We know that Barack Obama is a man who has devoted his entire life to his community, his country, and that he will be a president who will make the economy work for the American people again.
Barack Obama is someone who has tapped into something we're feeling right now in this room--people are ready for change. They're tired of divisive politics and people want real leadership.
And while some want to create fear by asking these questions, our campaign here in Minnesota is focused on talking to people about the issues. Because that's what the people want to hear--what is the next president going to do to help me and my family?
Minnesotans deserve better than they're getting from John McCain and his campaign.
And on November 4th, we're going to make sure they get it.

From day one, this campaign has been driven by the everyday people, like Susan, Mary, and Jan, who, instead of sitting idly by, stood up and acknowledged their responsibility to make change happen in their community.

Whether it's volunteering at your local Obama office, joining a Team Obama in your neighborhood, or setting up a personal fundraising page, there's something we can all do to impact the future of this country.

After all, as Susan, Mary, and Jan ask, "When has an election in our lifetime been more critical than this?"

Check out the photos from the Artists for Obama event in Minneapolis below, and sign up to volunteer:

Reflections on Canvassing

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:50:18 EDT

Last week, we posted a video of two friends, Anya & Emily, canvassing in Minneapolis.

Both Anya and Emily have made a personal commitment to volunteer for at least three hours each week to make sure Barack wins Minnesota on November 4th.

Watch the video of the drive back from the canvass, as Emily and Anya share their experiences with each other:

When you get out and talk to voters about Barack, you feel like you're making a difference, because...you are!

Check out Neighbor to Neighbor right now and see how easy it is to print up a list of people to canvass right in your own neighborhood.

This post-debate weekend is the perfect weekend to get out there and talk to your neighbors about the real differences between Barack Obama and John McCain. Getting a real live visit from a real live supporter makes a difference at this crucial time when voters are making up their minds.

And it's also a great time to get your kids involved!

Anya said it best: it's inspiring just to hear how excited other people are about Barack Obama.

Michelle Obama in St. Paul: "Barack gets it."

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:14:19 EDT

In front of a crowd of more than 4500 in St. Paul yesterday, Michelle Obama said that, for her, this is not just politics. "It's personal. It's personal for me, it's personal for all of us now."

Hard-working people who don't want government to solve all their problems. Folks in this country aren't asking for much. They just want to be able to do what my dad did for me -- get up, go to work every day and earn a decent living.

And from my vantage point, as a wife, as a mother, as a daughter, the choice is clear. There's only one candidate who is speaking at all to the issues that I care about.

Michelle's story is the American story. Michelle grew up on the South Side of Chicago, attended public schools, and took used scholarships and loans to pay her way through college and law school. After a few years practicing corporate law, she returned to the South Side of Chicago to give back to the city she loves and to help others serve their communities as the executive director of a non-profit.

Michelle reminded folks that Barack was raised by a single mother and his grandparents. And while they didn't have much money, they taught him to believe in the promise of America.

I can't speak for anyone else, but Barack Obama gets it. And he doesn't get it in some philosophical, theoretical way. He gets it because he's lived it.

"Don't we deserve leaders who get it?" asked Michelle.

Find out how you can get involved today and join this grassroots movement for change. Sign up to use our Neighbor to Neighbor tool, set up a personal fundraising page, and join your local Team Obama. We need everyone to do their part to help bring real change to America and make sure we elect a president who gets it.

Check out the pictures from Michelle's Change We Need Rally at Macalaster College:

Fired up in St. Paul!

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:06:49 EDT

Minnesotans are fired up and ready to make elect Barack Obama the next president of the United States.

Michelle Obama started off this morning with a community event in Rochester, and is now on her way to St. Paul for a Change We Need rally, featuring Sen. Amy Klobuchar.

Thousands of everyday Minnesotans braved the cold and rain to wait in line before doors opened at 2:30 p.m.

The line is moving fast, and folks are singing along to "Celebration" and other rally tunes waiting for the rally to start.

It's not too late, come join the fun. The rally starts at 4:30 p.m. Here are the details:

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

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

Michelle Obama tells Rochester crowd: 'My husband gets it'

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:01:13 EDT

From the Star Tribune:

Michelle Obama, the wife of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, made her first of two stops in Minnesota today.

At a lunchtime rally in Rochester's Taylor Arena of the Mayo Civic Center, Obama told supporters, "We have a chance to impact history ... we have a chance to rebuild this nation."

She said there is much at stake in this election against GOP rival John McCain. She then ticked off a trouble economy, a "broken health care system" and the need to improve education.

"Isn't it the time to look to new solutions?" she said. "Because the old ways just won't do."

Obama said she's been campaigning now "for 20 months with the sole task of telling you that my husband gets it."

From Rochester, it's on to St. Paul for Obama, where she'll be at Macalester College. Doors for the rally at the Leonard Center will open at 2:30 p.m. for the 4 p.m. event.

You can still join Michelle this afternoon at a Change We Need Rally in St. Paul. Here are the details:

Change We Need Rally with Michelle Obama

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

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

RSVP ONLINE:

http://mn.barackobama.com/StPaulChange

Kenwood for Obama

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 11:22:50 EDT

Sally from Kenwood, shared some photos of the "Obama Driveway Signs" her neighbors created yesterday afternoon.

Tracy and her husband, Adrian, and their young daughters took advantage of yesterday's gorgeous fall weather to create Obama "chalk" signs on their driveway and front steps.

In a race this close, every conversation matters. The way we win is by engaging more people in real conversations about the issues and letting them know about Barack’s message of change. It’s as simple as that.

So pick up the phone and make your voice heard.