I dont have pictures up yet because I am not home. But they will be up soon.
http://todcandback.blogspot.com/
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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
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?
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.
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.
On Monday, Michelle Obama returns to Minnesoa to speak with Minnesota voters about the clear choice they have in this election between change and more of the same.
Michelle discuss the everyday challenges that working families face as our economy worsens and talk about Barack Obama and Joe Biden’s long records of standing up for women and families.
Here are the details, check back for an opportunity to RSVP for these events online:
MONDAY, OCTOBER 13 Rochester, MN COMMUNITY EVENT WITH MICHELLE OBAMA Taylor Arena at the Mayo Civic Center 30 Civic Center Drive SE Rochester, MN 55902 Doors Open: 10:30 AM Program Begins: 12:00 PM The event is free and open to the public. Free tickets are available at on a first-come, first served basis at the following location: Ticket Location Olmstead Co. Obama Campaign for Change Office 401 16th Ave. NW, #105 Rochester, MN 55901 Right off of 52, just past the Famous Dave's and the Perkins Map & Directions Tickets Available: 12 noon - 9 pm Saturday and Sunday For more information contact the Olmstead Co. Obama Campaign for Change office: (507) 536-9785. ***For security reasons, do not bring bags or umbrellas. Please limit personal belongings. No signs or banners permitted.*** St. Paul, MN CHANGE WE NEED RALLY WITH MICHELLE OBAMA Macalester College Leonard Center 125 Snelling Ave S St. Paul, MN 55105 Map & Directions Doors Open: 2:30PM Program Begins: 4:00PM This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are NOT required but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. To RSVP, please visit mn.barackobama.com. Space is available on a first come first serve basis. ***For security reasons, do not bring bags or umbrellas. Please limit personal belongings. No signs or banners permitted.***
MONDAY, OCTOBER 13
Rochester, MN
COMMUNITY EVENT WITH MICHELLE OBAMA Taylor Arena at the Mayo Civic Center 30 Civic Center Drive SE Rochester, MN 55902
Doors Open: 10:30 AM Program Begins: 12:00 PM
The event is free and open to the public. Free tickets are available at on a first-come, first served basis at the following location:
Ticket Location Olmstead Co. Obama Campaign for Change Office 401 16th Ave. NW, #105 Rochester, MN 55901 Right off of 52, just past the Famous Dave's and the Perkins Map & Directions
Tickets Available: 12 noon - 9 pm Saturday and Sunday For more information contact the Olmstead Co. Obama Campaign for Change office: (507) 536-9785.
***For security reasons, do not bring bags or umbrellas. Please limit personal belongings. No signs or banners permitted.***
St. Paul, MN
CHANGE WE NEED RALLY WITH MICHELLE OBAMA Macalester College Leonard Center 125 Snelling Ave S St. Paul, MN 55105 Map & Directions
Doors Open: 2:30PM Program Begins: 4:00PM This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are NOT required but an RSVP is strongly encouraged.
To RSVP, please visit mn.barackobama.com. Space is available on a first come first serve basis.
Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released a new 30 second TV ad, “Can’t Explain”, which highlights health care in the debate last night. In the ad, which features footage from the debate, Joe Biden sheds light on the truth about John McCain’s health care plan, telling America that McCain pays for his health care plan by taxing your health care benefits, and he calls that, “the ultimate bridge to nowhere.”
"Can’t Explain" will air across the country on national cable beginning today.
Watch the ad...
With just 33 days until Election Day we need to step up our efforts to convince undecided voters to vote for Barack Obama.
To put him over the top here in Minnesota, Barack needs us to step up in our own communities, because we know our neighbors better than anyone.
Sign up now to join a weekend canvass in your area and make a difference in your community.
Andrew Zucker, the Youth Vote Director in Minnesota, just sent out this email...
Dear Xavier, It's hard to believe, but there are only 6 weeks to go before Election Day. Now is the time to make sure you and everyone you know are registered to vote to help bring the change America desperately needs. Earlier this month, "Harold & Kumar" star Kal Penn did his part by going on a road trip through Minnesota, registering students to vote and promoting our new online voter registration tool, Vote for Change. Watch a video of Kal Penn stopping by a fraternity house to promote Vote for Change: You'd be surprised by how many college students aren't registered to vote -- including your own classmates. When Kal was in college, he moved from house to house, and sometimes couldn't remember where he was registered. With Vote for Change, that's no longer a problem. Keep track of where you're registered to vote, or find out if you're registered at all. You can also use it to vote absentee or find your polling location. To win this election and bring about change for our generation, we're going to need as many young people registered to vote as possible. Watch this video now and invite all of your friends to check out Vote for Change: http://mn.barackobama.com/MNvoteforchange Thanks, Andrew Andrew Zucker Youth Vote Director Minnesota Campaign for Change
KAAL reports on yesterday's National Security Town Hall in Rochester:
(ABC 6 News) - Polls are showing a tight margin between Barack Obama and John McCain. As we get closer to Election Day we can expect to see more local politicians rallying for their presidential candidate.In the first town hall meeting for Senator Barack Obama in Rochester, national security experts took the stage stumping for the democratic hopeful. They unveiled Obama's foreign policy vision for national security. It includes withdrawing troops from Iraq within 16 months and refocusing the fight towards Al Qaeda and the Taliban."Focus on the people who actually perpetrated 9-11 on us that's taking this to Afghanistan and making sure Pakistan is brought into this," Tim Walz. Republicans in our area stumping for John McCain were quick to respond to the proposal. In a phone interview Minnesota Republican Chair Ron Carey criticizes Obama's plan."On Iraq, Barack Obama says he wants peace, but if he continues to oppose the strategy that has lead to a tremendous reduction of violence, his calls for unconditional withdrawal could result in a renewed violence," said Carey.Democratic Congressman Tim Walz disagrees."The currently policy under President Bush supported by Senator McCain has been solely focused on Iraq, that had nothing to do with 9-11, and had used our resources, our troops to the point where it's very difficult to focus on the greater need," said Walz.
(ABC 6 News) - Polls are showing a tight margin between Barack Obama and John McCain. As we get closer to Election Day we can expect to see more local politicians rallying for their presidential candidate.
In the first town hall meeting for Senator Barack Obama in Rochester, national security experts took the stage stumping for the democratic hopeful. They unveiled Obama's foreign policy vision for national security. It includes withdrawing troops from Iraq within 16 months and refocusing the fight towards Al Qaeda and the Taliban.
"Focus on the people who actually perpetrated 9-11 on us that's taking this to Afghanistan and making sure Pakistan is brought into this," Tim Walz. Republicans in our area stumping for John McCain were quick to respond to the proposal. In a phone interview Minnesota Republican Chair Ron Carey criticizes Obama's plan.
"On Iraq, Barack Obama says he wants peace, but if he continues to oppose the strategy that has lead to a tremendous reduction of violence, his calls for unconditional withdrawal could result in a renewed violence," said Carey.
Democratic Congressman Tim Walz disagrees.
"The currently policy under President Bush supported by Senator McCain has been solely focused on Iraq, that had nothing to do with 9-11, and had used our resources, our troops to the point where it's very difficult to focus on the greater need," said Walz.
Click here to watch KAAL's video from the Town Hall.
The Minnesota DFL Party sent out this email to its supporters this morning:
Dear Friend, This Friday at 12:00 noon -- while John McCain and Sarah Palin touch down ever so briefly in Minnesota at an airport hangar in Blaine -- you can fight back.Join the Minnesota DFL Party, Barack Obama's Campaign for Change, Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and Minnesota House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher at the "Rally to Restore America's Economy."WHAT: Rally to Restore America's Economy DATE: This Friday, September 19 TIME: 12:00 noon WHERE: Peavey Plaza, downtown Minneapolis (at 11th Street and Nicollet Mall)WHO: Mayor R.T. Rybak, Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, a special musical guest -- and Minnesotans like you who want change.RSVP: http://MN.BarackObama.com/EconomyRallyUnbelievably, John McCain still thinks that "the fundamentals of our economy are strong." And all too believably, he's dragging his campaign into the gutter to try to distract us from his full-throated support of George Bush's disastrous economic policies.And don't forget that the last time they were in Minnesota, John McCain and the Republicans spent virtually their entire convention attacking Barack Obama -- not to mention people like you who are trying to create change in your communities. But while John McCain is offering nothing to fix our serious economic problems, Barack Obama is offering real change. Join fellow Democrats and Obama supporters and Rally to Restore the Economy. Barack Obama will put the economy back on track in Minnesota again. Barack's comprehensive economic plan -- which includes tax cuts for 95 percent of American families -- will bring new jobs to our state, stimulate economic growth, and put money back into the pockets of hardworking Minnesotans. The DFL Party has always been based on the principle that real change comes from the bottom up, not from the top down. Barack's campaign for change is rooted in this same principle. On Friday, we can send the message to John McCain that Minnesota wants change -- not more of the same. Click here to RSVP to Friday's Rally to Restore the Economy. Thanks, Donna Cassutt Associate Chair Minnesota DFL Party PS: Change begins with all of us, and we can't make change without you. Join us on Friday to send a message to John McCain and start taking our economy back.
Dear Friend,
This Friday at 12:00 noon -- while John McCain and Sarah Palin touch down ever so briefly in Minnesota at an airport hangar in Blaine -- you can fight back.
Join the Minnesota DFL Party, Barack Obama's Campaign for Change, Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and Minnesota House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher at the "Rally to Restore America's Economy."
WHAT: Rally to Restore America's Economy
DATE: This Friday, September 19
TIME: 12:00 noon
WHERE: Peavey Plaza, downtown Minneapolis (at 11th Street and Nicollet Mall)
WHO: Mayor R.T. Rybak, Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, a special musical guest -- and Minnesotans like you who want change.
RSVP: http://MN.BarackObama.com/EconomyRally
Unbelievably, John McCain still thinks that "the fundamentals of our economy are strong." And all too believably, he's dragging his campaign into the gutter to try to distract us from his full-throated support of George Bush's disastrous economic policies.
And don't forget that the last time they were in Minnesota, John McCain and the Republicans spent virtually their entire convention attacking Barack Obama -- not to mention people like you who are trying to create change in your communities. But while John McCain is offering nothing to fix our serious economic problems, Barack Obama is offering real change. Join fellow Democrats and Obama supporters and Rally to Restore the Economy.
Barack Obama will put the economy back on track in Minnesota again. Barack's comprehensive economic plan -- which includes tax cuts for 95 percent of American families -- will bring new jobs to our state, stimulate economic growth, and put money back into the pockets of hardworking Minnesotans.
The DFL Party has always been based on the principle that real change comes from the bottom up, not from the top down. Barack's campaign for change is rooted in this same principle.
On Friday, we can send the message to John McCain that Minnesota wants change -- not more of the same. Click here to RSVP to Friday's Rally to Restore the Economy.
Thanks,
Donna Cassutt Associate Chair Minnesota DFL Party
PS: Change begins with all of us, and we can't make change without you. Join us on Friday to send a message to John McCain and start taking our economy back.
Michelle Obama sent out the following email yesterday regarding Minnesota's Women's Week of Action.
Friend-- It's hard to believe there are less than 50 days before Election Day.That's not a lot of time. And since women voters could decide this election, we have to take this opportunity to talk to our friends and family about what's at stake.We've seen the power of women throughout this campaign -- educating each other about the issues and building this movement by sharing our personal stories.That's why, over the next few weeks, women all across Minnesota will be reaching out to one another through special Women's Week of Action phonebanks and canvasses.On every issue important to women -- from access to healthcare and universal pre-school to equal pay for equal work -- Barack is the only candidate who can bring about the change we need.Join a Women's Week of Action event and let other women in your community know why you're supporting Barack.Barack was raised by a single mother and grandmother. He understands the tough choices that working women in this country face every single day -- because he lived it. And now, he and I are raising two young girls. They are the reason we're in this race -- to make the world a better place, full of opportunity, for them and for all of our children.I know that Barack and Joe Biden are a strong team for women and families across the country because they have the record and the commitment to prove it -- but it's up to supporters like you to help get this message of change out into your communities.Barack and Joe will pass tax cuts for 95% of American families, ensure that women get equal pay for the same jobs as men, put the needs of working and middle class families ahead of special interests, and change our broken school system so that every single child in this nation has a world-class education from pre-school through college.But they can't do it alone. This campaign is counting on us. If women come together to support Barack and Joe, we can bring about the change we need.Get started today by reaching out to other women in your community:http://mn.barackobama.com/MNwomensweekThe future of women and all of our families is at stake in this election.Thank you so much for all that you do,Michelle
Friend--
It's hard to believe there are less than 50 days before Election Day.
That's not a lot of time. And since women voters could decide this election, we have to take this opportunity to talk to our friends and family about what's at stake.
We've seen the power of women throughout this campaign -- educating each other about the issues and building this movement by sharing our personal stories.
That's why, over the next few weeks, women all across Minnesota will be reaching out to one another through special Women's Week of Action phonebanks and canvasses.
On every issue important to women -- from access to healthcare and universal pre-school to equal pay for equal work -- Barack is the only candidate who can bring about the change we need.
Join a Women's Week of Action event and let other women in your community know why you're supporting Barack.
Barack was raised by a single mother and grandmother. He understands the tough choices that working women in this country face every single day -- because he lived it. And now, he and I are raising two young girls. They are the reason we're in this race -- to make the world a better place, full of opportunity, for them and for all of our children.
I know that Barack and Joe Biden are a strong team for women and families across the country because they have the record and the commitment to prove it -- but it's up to supporters like you to help get this message of change out into your communities.
Barack and Joe will pass tax cuts for 95% of American families, ensure that women get equal pay for the same jobs as men, put the needs of working and middle class families ahead of special interests, and change our broken school system so that every single child in this nation has a world-class education from pre-school through college.
But they can't do it alone. This campaign is counting on us. If women come together to support Barack and Joe, we can bring about the change we need.
Get started today by reaching out to other women in your community:
http://mn.barackobama.com/MNwomensweek
The future of women and all of our families is at stake in this election.
Thank you so much for all that you do,
Michelle
Find a Women's Week of Action event near you.
Nick Kimball, the Obama campaign's Minnesota spokesman issued the following statement regarding the brief McCain-Palin airport stop planned for this Friday:
We welcome Senator McCain and Governor Palin back to Minnesota for their brief stop at the airport. Senator McCain's stubborn insistence that the "fundamentals of the economy are strong" shows that he is disturbingly out of touch with what's going on in the lives of middle-class Minnesotans.And, unfortunately, not leaving the airport grounds won't do anything to change his out of touch perspective. Barack Obama understands the fundamentals of the economy and will cut taxes for 95 percent of Americans.
We welcome Senator McCain and Governor Palin back to Minnesota for their brief stop at the airport. Senator McCain's stubborn insistence that the "fundamentals of the economy are strong" shows that he is disturbingly out of touch with what's going on in the lives of middle-class Minnesotans.
And, unfortunately, not leaving the airport grounds won't do anything to change his out of touch perspective. Barack Obama understands the fundamentals of the economy and will cut taxes for 95 percent of Americans.
From the Rochester Post-Bulletin:
Igor Vovkovinskiy commands attention wherever goes. At 7-feet, 8-inches tall, it kind of goes with the territory. For the last several months now, this soulful Rochester man has found a cause for which he has enthusiastically lent his towering frame.Vovkovinskiy has thrown himself into politics. A fervent supporter of Sen. Barack Obama, he often sports a T-shirt emblazoned with the words, "World's Biggest OBAMA fan." He regularly attends DFL political rallies and doesn't mind using his height for political advantage. If it draws people in and gets them talking about politics, so much the better, he says."I believe in Barack Obama so much that I really want to use everything that I have at my advantage to help him," Vovkovinskiy said.Daily volunteerAt Olmsted DFL Headquarters in northwest Rochester, Vovkovinskiy, 25, volunteers about four or five hours each day answering phones, handing out campaign literature and entering data into a computer. His work station, designed to accommodate his large body, includes a chair made of heavy oak and sturdy enough to not wobble when he sits down.It might seem like grunt work, but Vovkovinskiy says he's enjoying himself immensely.For months, Vovkovinskiy was largely bedridden, either at home or in the hospital, hobbled by a painfully infected left foot that has required six surgeries. In contrast to that confinement, his political activity has been a joyous outlet for him. It's connected him with simple things -- talking politics, enjoying the weather at rallies and socializing with people of like-minded views.Vovkovinskiy says his political activity is driven by multiple issues and concerns. One is health care. Vovkovinskiy knows something about the subject, having received his fair share of medical care since arriving in the U.S. two decades ago. (He conservatively estimates the price tag at $6 million.) And it frightens him to think what it must be like for people without health insurance."I don't think people should have to choose between putting food on the table and getting health care," he said.There is also the appeal of Obama himself. Critics might complain about his lack of experience, but Vovkovinskiy sees it as a bonus. It means that Obama isn't compromised or corrupted by Washington's back-scratching culture and is free to make his own decisions."He doesn't owe anything to anyone," he said.Well-knownIt's not always easy being one of the world's tallest men, Vovkovinskiy acknowledges. He doesn't go to places like the Mall of America anymore because often people "just run up and start screaming and yelling and calling me names." But he doesn't mind drawing attention to himself in Rochester as Obama's "biggest fan." There's a comfort level, built growing up here."People know me, because I've been here for nearly 20 years now. I don't really get (many) questions asked. So when people ask about my (Obama) shirt or something like that, I'm glad to answer whatever questions they have," he said.Vovkovinskiy's biggest wish is to shake Obama's hand. It almost happened two years ago when the Illinois senator came to Mayo Civic Center for a rally. But something unique to Vovkovinskiy's experience happened. As Vovkovinskiy extended his hand, Obama walked right by him, never making eye contact."I'm still thinking he was ignoring me. I want him to come back here and shake my hand," he said.
In remembrance of the seventh anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Senator Obama released the following statement:
Today, we honor the memory of the lives that were lost on September 11, 2001, and grieve with the families and friends who lost someone they loved in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. We will never forget those who died. We will always remember the extraordinary efforts of our firefighters, police and emergency responders, and those who sacrificed their own lives on Flight 93 to protect their fellow Americans. And we give thanks for the Americans defending us every day in our communities at home, and in our military abroad. On 9/11, Americans across our great country came together to stand with the families of the victims, to donate blood, to give to charity, and to say a prayer for our country. Let us renew that spirit of service and that sense of common purpose. Let us remember that the terrorists responsible for 9/11 are still at large, and must be brought to justice. Let us resolve to defeat terrorist networks, defend the American homeland, stand up for the enduring American values that we cherish, and seek a new birth of freedom at home and around the world.
Barack Obama’s Minnesota Campaign for Change will be hitting the road next week, with the launch of a Greater Minnesota Heartland for Change RV tour across the state, highlighting Barack’s comprehensive plans to bring jobs, health care and economic resurgence to Minnesota’s small towns, cities and middle-class families.
Find a Heartland for Change stop near you by visiting http://MN.BarackObama.com/MNHeartlandChange.
The Heartland Change RV has been making its way across the country listening to voters who have been hit hard by the failed Bush/McCain economic policies of the last eight years.
In addition to local elected officials at each stop, several other Minnesota leaders will headline events at various points on the tour:• Minnesota House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher• State Auditor Rebecca Otto• Minnesota House Majority Leader Tony Sertich• Assistant Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Tarryl Clark• Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Bob Bergland• Former Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Jim NicholsThe RV will make stops in 24 towns, giving folks an opportunity to share their concerns, talk about the issues they're dealing with, and hear Barack's ideas for making the economy work for Minnesota families once again.
If you aren't able to make it to one of the 24 scheduled stops, you can track the Heartland Change RV's journey online at http://MN.BarackObama.com/MNHeartlandTour starting next week.
