Las Cruces NM for Obama

Hello New Mexicans for Obama

Eric from Las Cruces, NM — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 18:25:58 EST

Hello New Mexicans for Obama,

I hope you are still as fired up as I am after last fall’s campaign, and after the incredible start the Obama administration has had, and that you are still motivated to organize for change.

I wanted to introduce myself to those of you I don’t know. My name is Eric Hilberg and I worked as a volunteer grass roots organizer on the Obama campaign in Southern New Mexico. Just like many of you, I knocked on lots of doors, made phone calls, led a neighborhood team of volunteers, and prepared walk lists and call lists for dozens of other teams here in Las Cruces. Together we won this election.

I am excited to serve as New Mexico’s Volunteer Liaison to Organizing for America, and I’m excited to tell you that Organizing for America is up and running. OFA’s mission is to mobilize our grassroots movement in support of President Obama’s policies for change and to build on and strengthen that grassroots organization we have all built together. I am an unpaid volunteer (not an official OFA staffer) who has been asked to help coordinate our efforts here in New Mexico with OFA’s national office.

I know that many of you are already utilizing the Obama network to organize in your communities. Your efforts holding house parties and collecting stories about the impact of the current economic crisis on New Mexicans helped pass the Economic Recovery and Stimulus Act, and your involvement will be critical to its success.

You can act today to support our economic recovery. Take a minute to thank the Senators and Representatives in New Mexico who supported the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and encourage them to continue working with President Obama to lift America out of the economic crisis. When you’re done, report back to us about the calls you made.

Throughout the next weeks and months, I look forward to working with all of you to ensure that Organizing for America is successful here in New Mexico. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or ideas as we continue to organize for change.

Thanks so much,

Eric Hilberg (erichilberg@gmail.com)

New Mexico Volunteer Liaison, Organizing for America

Feb 7 Obama Cruces Connection- General Meeting notes

Bryan J Chasko — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 04:00:37 EST

From the Obama Cruces Connection occ209@gmail.com
Welcome Obama Volunteers—past & present:
We need your input...
moving ahead for Obama Cruces Connection (OCC)
activities and Organizing For America (OFA)
Here are some important dates in the month ahead:

Tue., Feb. 17- 6pm, Environment & Energy (Green Team)
Thur., Feb. 19: 6:30pm, Global Challenge (Yellow Team)
Tue., Feb. 26, March 11, March 25- 6:30pm, Education & Training (Blue Team)
--- Soon: Bill McCamley leads the next planning session for the
Alice King Food Pantry & other Non-Profit Support Service (Purple Team)---
Tue., March 3: 6pm, HealthCare Group--(Red Team)
Issue Groups will meet at 1400 S. Solano (Dem HQ)

To begin receiving our monthly notices on upcoming events
and how to keep the Obama Change momentum going with direct
National OFA guidance and interaction---Email us at
OCC209@gmail.com and let us know (in your email subject line)
"Yes" and include a color tag to indicate the issue group(s) with which you wish participate.

Following are minutes of the last OFA/Cruces group meeting of Feb. 7th. Our next OCC meeting is Sat., March 14 at 11am. With your help, we'll keep things moving
toward making So. NM part of the Obama movement for Change.
Thanks….Email us at OCC209@gmail.com....Thanks

Thanks for your participation!

Committee chairs Bill McCamley (Community Service--like food drives f/b/o Jardin de los Ninos); Evelyn Erhard (Education and Job Training); Gil Sorg (Energy, Environment, Infrastructure & Transportation); Bryan Chasko (Global Challenges); Meade Kemrer & Neil Holtzman (Universal Health Care); and Lloyd Covens, Eric Hilberg, Ernest Flores, Sharion Glazier, Francene Foster, Maria Flores and Judy Benson (who is maintaining a master email list of volunteers for mailings).

It's Election Day

Shayne Adamski — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 10:27:39 EST

New Mexico, the polls are now open. It's a great day to elect Barack Obama President and Joe Biden Vice President.

All of the hard work and the long days come down to today.

It's up to us to finish what we've started.

CHANGE comes today!

But first, we need everyone to VOTE, and then we need everyone to VOLUNTEER.

YES WE CAN!!

Here are some tips to help you make sure Election Day goes smoothly:

* The polls are open from 7:00AM to 7:00PM. If you are in line by 7:00PM, it's your right to vote.

* If you have not received your absentee ballot, you can get another ballot at your polling place on Tuesday, November 4th.

* If you registered to vote by mail for the first time and didn't include ID, you must bring ID with you to the polls. The address on your ID does not need to match your registration address.

* You may be asked to remove or cover any campaign gear (Obama T-shirts, buttons, etc.) that you wear to the polls. As long as you comply, you still have the right to vote.

Video: Michelle Obama Surprises a NM Field Office

Shayne Adamski — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 17:59:24 EST

When Michelle Obama was in New Mexico on Tuesday, October 28, she made an unscheduled stop at the South Santa Fe - Zafarano Field Office and thanked the staff and volunteers for all of their hard work. She even helped them make a few phone calls and reach out to voters!!

Watch the video...and then signup to volunteer and help us Get Out the Vote.

STUDENTS: Volunteer on Election Day

Shayne Adamski — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 17:53:38 EST

Are you off from school on Election Day?

Some High Schools around the state have Election Day off, TUES, NOV 4TH.

This is an amazing opportunity for you to participate and volunteer in this historic Presidential Election.

DON'T WAIT. SIGNUP TODAY and help us win this election.

http://my.barackobama.com/NMhseday

A special message from Jill Biden to Veterans and Military Families

Shayne Adamski — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 23:26:02 EDT

Watch this video from Jill Biden...

...and encourage everyone you know in the military to return their Vote-by-Mail ballots so their vote is counted in this historic election.

Read more on Barack and Joe's positions on the issues affecting veterans and military families.

Video: Joe Biden encourages New Mexico to VOTE EARLY

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 13:14:13 EDT

As enter the last 2 days of Early Vote, Joe Biden recorded this message to all New Mexicans, encouraging them to vote early. If history is an indicator of the future, this is going to be a close election and we need to make sure everyone votes.

Watch this video from Joe and then lookup your early vote location...

First, Michelle rocks a rally in Las Vegas, NM and then phonebanks in Santa Fe, NM

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 03:22:51 EDT

On Tuesday, October 28, Michelle Obama held an Early Vote rally in Las Vegas, NM. More than 3,200 people filled the plaza to listen to Michelle.

She talked about the importance of voting early, and knocking on doors and making phone calls. She said that Barack needs our help, because he can't do everything, and it's up to us to do some of the heavy lifting.

After the rally, Michelle surprised volunteers and staff in the South Santa Fe - Zafarano Field Office. She meet with everyone and then made some phone calls to voters.

Check out some pictures from the day...and then signup to volunteer and help us elect the next President.

On the Road in New Mexico

Ellee Koss — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:09:52 EDT

I continue to be deeply moved by the enormity of the possibility of an Obama Presidency. Even before watching Barack’s infomercial I was in tears off and on yesterday. I am here in Alamogordo, NM from San Francisco. By the end of the election I will have been here for 3 weeks. In the heart of a very red county, I am blown away at the commitment of local people and other out of state volunteers.

Two days ago I called back a woman who wanted a ride to early vote. I asked her how she was. She said: “ Not too good. My cancer is back and my lungs are filling up. I just want to go vote.” Within the hour she had voted.

This week we had the privilege of hosting Retired Brigadier General Tom Daniels. Tom took the train from Fort Worth, TX to El Paso and then drove to Alamogordo. He has been supporting Barack since day one, is part of the National Security Advisory group and couldn’t just stay at home any more. Eight months ago, Tom had a double lung transplant. This trip was not easy for him yet he was here talking to everybody he met. Not once did he complain. Several other vets came into town, one made it his responsibility to make sure that all of Tom’s needs were met. Yesterday, in dealing with a family death, Tom found the loving support from a group of strangers he had just come to know.

Yesterday, I was privileged to be part of the Northern California Finance Committee Conference Call, our last call before the election. The stories everyone told, from their travels across this incredible country, had all of us in tears.

Last night, we had a local event, for Vets and Military folks at the home of Janie and Dal Ellington. The Brigadier General was there, local people, out of state volunteers, and even people from other countries were there. We were a diverse group and we watched Barack’s infomercial together. We cried together. We laughed together. And yes, we loved together.

This is the possibility of a Barack Presidency!

YES WE CAN!

NOW let's go out and knock on some more doors and make some more phone calls!

President Obama

Liz — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:15:16 EDT

My heart weeps with joy with the soothing voice and promise of a hopeful future with President Obama. My heart weeps with sadness for all those, too many, among us who reject this hope based upon racism, ignorance, hate, indifference and misinformation.

I feel deep sadness at their lost opportunity to participate in this historic chain of events, and feel pity for all those distracters who will be remembered only for trying to stand in the way of millions of enlightened citizens who where not afraid, not divided by hate, but joined together in a powerful belief of better day’s ahead, ready to shoulder their share of responsibility.

Responsibility for our country, our family, and our neighbor, including the neighbor outside our borders. Globalization involves taking responsibility not only to your next door neighbor, but also to the neighbor across the political chasm and across the geographical chasm. Global issues will hit home sooner or later as we all know, and we need to be proactive, not reactive on those issues. Isolationism and protectionism is outdated and dangerous to any democratic nation, or any nation.

How the outcome of this election can even be questioned is tragic in it itself. The disgraceful campaign suffered upon us by McCain, and the national and international embarrassment served upon this great Nation by the Palin selection is nearly unbearable. But we prevail, and truth will prevail, and what is good and decent in our Nation will prevail, and on November 4th 2008 the good citizens of the United (not the divided) States of America will speak their mind and join with President Obama in leading this Nation out of the darkness, away from fear mongering, hate and prejudice.

Nobody has claimed it will be easy, President Obama is warning us daily of the difficulties ahead. We have accepted the slick wickedness for too long. We needed a wake up call, and it has been received. We have received it in our pocket books certainly.

The hateful will continue spewing their hate propaganda and attack every effort put forth, in particular there can never be a true victory in Iraq, no matter the actions. Mark my words, over the next 4 years we will hear nothing but criticism of how President Obama “lost” the war, “ruined” the victory, etc nonsense.

You know I’m right. Sigh. But as I said, we will prevail and forge ahead into a brighter future; it will get worse first, because we now have to deal with the stark reality of just how much the last many miserable years actually cost us as a Nation. But we must work hard, tighten our belts and not give up the fight. President Obama will stand with us every step of the way.

American Stories, American Solutions

Shayne Adamski — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 02:49:40 EDT

Tonight, the campaign aired a special 30 minute program in which Barack addressed the nation about his plan for the country and the issues that are at stake in this election. In case you missed any part of it, or if you want to watch it again or share with your friends, you can watch the full program below:

We need your help to get out the vote across the state. Signup to volunteer this weekend.

Video: Voter Protection

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:26:29 EDT

Watch this video that describes your rights to vote, as well as acceptable forms of ID.

Here are a couple of points to remember....

* If you have not received your absentee ballot, go to your County Clerk's office on Mon, Nov 3 or your polling place on Tues, Nov 4 to get another ballot.

* If this is your first time voting and you registered by mail without including ID, you must bring ID. The ID address does not need to match your registration address.

* If asked by an election official to remove your Obama gear, remove it (or cover it up) and then VOTE. It's your right to vote!

Video from Barack's rally: VOTE EARLY and THEN VOLUNTEER

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:14:32 EDT

Watch this video of Obama supporters and Barack himself, encouraging you to Early Vote (find your location) so you can volunteer this weekend and on Election Day.

We need everyone's help. Our time is now.

Hate & Division part 4

Liz — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 16:56:23 EDT

ATF disrupts skinhead plot to assassinate Obama WASHINGTON (AP)—Federal agents have broken up a plot to assassinate Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama and shoot or decapitate 102 black people in a Tennessee murder spree, the ATF said Monday. In court records unsealed Monday, federal agents said they disrupted plans to rob a gun store and target a predominantly African-American high school by two neo-Nazi skinheads. Agents said the skinheads did not identify the school by name.

No need to spell it out any further....... I place this at the feet of mainly Palin, but McCain is not far behind.

Of course..... when you think about it, he is far behind.... behind OBAMA but also behind Palin who is out for herself now, I shudder at the thought. She is a National Embarrassemnt.

Barack comes to ABQ and 50,000 people show up

Shayne Adamski — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 09:05:08 EDT

Sen. Obama was in Albuquerque on Saturday for a night time rally at UNM. The energy and excitement of the crowd was palpable, as everyone was eager to hear from him as we enter the last few days of this campaign.

With a backdrop of a huge "Change We Need" sign, Sen. Obama took the stage and was greeted by 50,000 people.

Sen. Obama talked about the state of the economy and his plan for creating jobs, and told the crowd that he needs everyone to vote early and then volunteer the last 4 days of the Election (November 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th - Election Day) so we can win this thing.

If history is any indicator of the future, this could be a close race and we need to make sure everyone votes! We can't take anything for granted.

Check out some pictures from the awesome evening... and then signup to volunteer to help elect Barack the next President of the United States.

Pictures from Sen. Clinton's Early Vote Rally in Sunland Park

Shayne Adamski — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 04:28:42 EDT

Sen. Clinton was in Sunland Park on Saturday, encouraging people to vote early.

Remember, you can visit www.voteforchange.com to find the closest Early Vote location to you.

Check out some pictures from the event...

Healthcare Town Hall

Shayne Adamski — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:25:05 EDT

United States Senator Jeff Bingaman, Former New Mexico Secretary of Health Michelle Lujan Grisham and Family Practice Physician Dr. Daniel Derksen hosted a town hall for Albuquerque citizens interested in learning more about the Obama-Biden healthcare plan.

The speakers gave a summary of the Obama-Biden healthcare plan and answered questions attendees had regarding different aspects of the plan.

In the audience were small business owners, retirees, healthcare advocates, doctors and veterans. Read about the Obama-Biden healthcare plan.

Catholic groups launches pro-Obama web site

Connie from Memphis, TN — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 21:56:05 EDT

http://blogs.reuters.com/trail08/2008/10/22/catholic-groups-launches-pro-obama-web-site/

Catholic groups launches pro-Obama web site

DALLAS - Catholics for Obama has just launched a web site as the Nov. 4 White House race between Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain enters its final laps.

Catholics, who account for close to a quarter of the U.S. adult population, comprise a key religious group that both sides have tried to woo. In closely contested swing states such as Ohio or Florida the Catholic vote could make a difference.

The web site is sure to stoke controversy in Catholic circles with this statement: “Is Barack Obama really pro-life? The answer is ‘yes.’ Looking through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching, Senator Obama has spent his entire career striving for the common good. He supports health care programs that will cover all Americans, a living wage for working families, and solutions that allow distressed families to stay in their homes.”

It goes on to say that Obama, a strong advocate like his party of abortion rights, will reduce the number of abortions by promoting health care for pregnant women and infant care.

Hate & Division part 3 !!!!!!!!

Liz — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:54:57 EDT

PARIS, Texas — In a gruesome case with powerful echoes of the dragging death of James Byrd a decade ago, a black man was killed underneath a pickup truck in East Texas and two white men have been charged with murder.

McClelland died after going with two white friends on a late-night beer run across the state line to Oklahoma, investigators said. Authorities said he was run over and dragged as far as 70 feet beneath the truck. His torn-apart body was discovered along a bloodstained rural road on Sept. 16. His mother said pieces of his skull could still be found three days later.

We all have an incredible responsibility to CHANGE !!

Not ONLY do we need to vote OBAMA for change, for our own private benfit, but we all also have to CHANGE our ways. We MUST all of us, STAND UP once and for all, and absolutely DEMAND CHANGE, DEMAND EQUALITY FOR ALL, DEMAND EQUALITY NO MATTER YOUR RACE, SEX OR RELIGION.

ISN'T THAT WHAT THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IS SUPPOSED TO BE ALL ABOUT !?!?!

Pictures and video from Early Vote rallies

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:59:14 EDT

On Saturday, October 18, the Campaign for Change kicked off Early Vote with numerous events throughout the state. There was a lot of momentum and energy on the first day of voting in New Mexico, and there continues to be even today, as I post this article. People across the state and across the country want change.

Remember, in New Mexico, today is Election Day. You can Early Vote at any location in your County. Visit www.voteforchange.com to the find the Early Vote location closest to you. Early Voting is just like voting on November 4th, and by voting now, you can help us Get Out the Vote the last 4 days of the campaign and help us win this election.

Thank you to everyone who attended an Early Vote Rally, and to everyone who has already VOTED!

And a special thank you to the following people who spoke at our events.

* Senator Jeff Bingaman
* Senator Ken Salazar (CO)
* Governor Bill Richardson
* Lt. Governor Diane Denish
* Attorney General Gary King
* State Treasurer James Lewis
* Catholic Advocate Ron Cruz
* Albuquerque City Councilor Mike Cadigan
* Albuquerque City Councilor Debbie O'Malley
* State Senator Howie Morales
* State Democratic Party Chairman Brian Colon
* State Representative Al Park
* State Representative Candidate Tim Keller
* Native American Affairs Secretary Alvin Warren
* Mayor of Espanola Joe Maestas

Check out pictures from events across the state....

Check out a video from the day....

First 50 Elected Officials Vote Early for Barack Obama

Shayne Adamski — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:01:16 EDT

Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez is One of the First to Cast His Vote for Change

Albuquerque, N.M. – Today, Campaign for Change announced that 50 elected officials voted early for Barack Obama to encourage New Mexicans to take advantage of Early Vote. Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez, who early voted for Barack Obama said:

"I was honored to be one of the first New Mexicans to cast my vote for Barack Obama. Vote early. Get others to vote early. Early voting counts the same as voting Election Day, and frees you up to spend Election Day helping elect Barack Obama and reduce Election Day lines."

Other officials who have voted early for Barack Obama include:

* Attorney General Gary King
* State Representative Antonio "Moe" Maestas
* State Representative Rick Miera
* State Representative Mary Helen Garcia
* Senate Majority Whip Mary Jane Garcia
* State Representative John Pena
* State Representative Richard Vigil
* State Representative Thomas Swisstack
* State Representative Jim Trujillo
* State Representative Peter Wirth
* State Representative Elias Barela
* State Representative Nathan Cote
* Carlsbad City Councilman Paul Aguilar
* Santa Fe County Commissioner Mike Anaya
* Sierra County Commissioner Walter Armijo
* Mesilla Trustee Carlos Arzabal
* Albuquerque City Councilman Isaac Benton
* District Attorney Kari Brandenburg
* Santa Fe City Councilwoman Patti Bushee
* Albuquerque City Councilman Michael Cadigan
* Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez
* San Juan County Commissioner Ervin Chavez
* Luna County Sheriff Raymond Cobos
* Santa Fe Mayor David Coss
* Cibola County Treasurer Norma Vigil Dominguez
* Carrizoza Trustee Dennis Dunnum
* Espanola City Councilor Danielle Duran
* Columbus Mayor Eddie Espinoza
* Bayard City Councilwoman Jovita Gonzales
* Taos County Commissioner Nicklos E. Jaramillo
* Quay County Commissioner Robert Lopez
* Fort Sumner Village Councilmember Selestino Lovato
* Espanola Mayor Joseph Maestas
* Colfax County Commissioner Jim Maldonado
* Aztec City Commissioner Diana Mesch
* Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima
* Santa Fe County Commissioner Harry Montoya
* Mora County Treasurer Ida Mora
* Albuquerque City Council Debbie O'Malley
* San Miguel County Treasurer Alfonso Ortiz
* Dona Ana County Assessor Gary Perez
* Valencia County Commissioner Pedro Rael
* Hatch Village Municipal Judge Sabino Ramirez
* Capitan Village Trustee Diane Riska
* San Miguel County Commissioner-Chair David Salazar
* Eddy County Treasurer Emma Salgado
* Hatch Village Trustee Roberto Torres
* San Miguel County Sheriff Benjamin Vigil
* Santa Fe County Commissioner Virginia Vigil
* Taos County Assessor Darlene Vigil

Navajo Nation Council Endorses Barack Obama and Joe Biden

Shayne Adamski — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:53:30 EDT

The campaign recently made the following announcement:

Tuesday, Senator Barack Obama accepted the endorsement of the Navajo Nation Council. The Council endorsed Obama and Senator Joe Biden on a vote of 59 to 21 at their fall legislative meeting. This endorsement is the latest of more than 100 tribal leaders, tribal organization and tribes that have endorsed Senators Obama and Biden.
Senator Obama said, "I am honored to receive the endorsement of the Navajo Nation. I look forward to partnering with Indian tribes, including the Navajo Nation, on a government-to-government basis, to address the special challenges facing tribes today, including access to affordable healthcare, economic development, energy independence, and education. Joe Biden and I look forward to working with the Navajo Nation and all of Indian Country to bring about the change we need."
The Navajo Nation is comprised of over 250,000 members on the largest federally recognized Native American Nation, located around Southeastern Utah, Northeastern Arizona and Northwestern New Mexico.

Early Vote for Change Rally with Barack Obama

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 23:13:31 EDT

Please join us Saturday, October 25th, for a rally with Barack Obama in Albuquerque:

Early Vote for Change Rally with Barack Obama

University of New Mexico
Johnson Field
Corner of Girard Blvd. and Central Ave.
Albuquerque, NM

Saturday, October 25th
Doors Open: 7:00 pm

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

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

Parking is limited. Carpooling is encouraged.

Early Vote for Change Rally with Sen. Hillary Clinton

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 15:53:03 EDT

Please join us Saturday, October 25th, for a rally with Senator Hillary Clinton in Sunland Park.

Elena Memorial Plaza
101 Meadow Vista Blvd.
Sunland Park, NM

Saturday, October 25th
Gates Open: 1:00 p.m.
Program Begins: 2:30 p.m.

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

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

Parking is limited. Carpooling is encouraged.

Drive for Change: from Chicago to New Mexico

Shayne Adamski — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:00:00 EDT

[ article by Kevin Flynn, Chicago HQ and Shayne Adamski, New Mexico HQ ]

A lot of people ask the question, "what can I do?" With 14 days until Election Day, there's a lot that you can do. Despite what polls say, they don't matter on Election Day, especially if no one votes.

At the end of the day, it's all about who has more votes, and if history is any indicator of the future and how close the race could be this year, here are some numbers to keep in mind: in 2004, we lost New Mexico by about 4 votes per precinct, and in 2000, Al Gore beat George W. Bush by just 366 votes. Three Hundred Sixty-six votes. Every vote counts.

We need everyone's help. If you live in New Mexico, visit your local field office and volunteer today. If you live out of state, you can travel to New Mexico and work with an amazing field operation. By coming to New Mexico, you have an opportunity to help win a battleground state in this historic election. If that doesn't answer the question, 'what can I do?' --- I'm not sure what does.

Austin K. and his girlfriend Liz L. decided that a road trip from their home in Chicago was in order to do their part, so they traveled to New Mexico. You can read about their trip....

We drove all the way from Chicago down to Albuquerque to volunteer full-time until election day for Barack. Liz is originally from Springfield, Missouri so we also stopped in to visit her parents to break up our trip. Between now and election day, Liz and I plan to help in every way we can to make sure every person in South Albuquerque gets to vote, wants to vote, and that every vote is properly counted.

In only a few days since we've arrived, we've made phone calls, walked neighborhoods, signed up volunteers, and helped open a brand new office in the South Valley. It is a ton of fun, and includes everything from persuading independent voters in their front yards under the hot Sunday sun to doing data entry late at night. This is my first ever trip to New Mexico, and only the second time for Liz.

The people here are all very warm and friendly, and so is the weather. The food is delicious, and chilies are everywhere you look. Housing and food are comparatively inexpensive, and the campaign has supporter housing available. If anyone is thinking about drying out and warming up from a bad Chicago fall season, this just might be the place.

Hate & Division part 2

Liz — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 13:08:58 EDT

CULLOWHEE, N.C. (AP) — Police at Western Carolina University and wildlife officials were investigating the discovery early Monday of a dead bear cub draped with a pair of Barack Obama campaign signs.

Leila Tvedt, associate vice chancellor for public relations, said Monday night that maintenance workers found the 75-pound bear cub shot to death in front of the school's administration building at the entrance to campus. The Obama yard signs were stapled together and placed over the bear's head, Tvedt said.

The bear had been shot in the head, Tvedt said.

IS THERE ANYONE WHO FAILS TO GET THE MESSAGE OF A BLACK BEAR SHOT TO DEATH AND DRAPED WITH AN OBAMA SIGN ???????????? IN A STATE LIKE N.C. WHERE RACISM IS ALIVE AND WELL, BUT UNFORTUNATELY IS NOT THE ONLY STATE OF COURSE.

ARE MCCAIN/PALIN GOING TO STEP UP TO PLATE AND CONTROL THEIR HENCHMEN? UNLIKELY, THIS IS NOW HOW POLITICS ARE PLAYED IN THE US.... FEAR MONGERING AND SPEWING HATRED.

SHAME......... SHAME.......... SHAME.......... SHAME

McCain/Palin campaign of hate and division

Liz — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:24:52 EDT

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A popular local TV anchorwoman who had a small part in the Bush biopic "W" was in critical condition Monday after being beaten in her home. Police questioned whether she could have been targeted.

Is there anyone who really doubts her attack was not realated to her participation in the movie?

and proof of how the McCain/Palin campaign of hate and division is speaking effectively to the ignorant masses and enticing more violence. It is disgraceful how they are dividing us even further by race,sex and religion. They now stand for everything that is wrong with this great Nation of ours, and I am greatly saddened by the number of people who stand with them against everything that is right and just. Simply despicable. I am greatly offended also by how an honorable man, an American hero, Colin Powel, is reduced to nothingness based solely on the color of his skin. Yet more proof of the dire state of affairs in the American social consciousness. Our Nation again on an embarrassing display of intolerance and lack of progressiveness.

Thoughts of comfort

Liz — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 23:14:39 EDT

Let us send the Obama family thoughts and hope of comfort in their time of a private family matter that sounds very concerning. We the people, will carry on here back at home, take care of business, vote for OBAMA/BIDEN and ensure a bright future for our country.

Video: learn about Early Voting

Shayne Adamski — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 19:00:34 EDT

Daniel Suvor, Deputy Field Director, took a minute out of his busy day at HQ and recorded this video, encouraging all New Mexicans to get out there and Early Vote.

Watch the video and learn about Early Voting, and then share it with your friends.

Visit www.voteforchange.com to find your Early Vote location and bring 5 friends with you, to help us win New Mexico's 5 electoral votes. You can also visit our Election HQ.

The Las Cruces Sun-News endorses Barack

Shayne Adamski — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:16:07 EDT

On Satuday, the Las Cruces Sun-News endorsed Sen. Obama.

Read the article below, and share it with your friends and share your comments at the bottom of this post.

The Las Cruces Sun-News endorses Barack Obama for president of the United States.

Like many Americans, we would feel more comfortable with the Democratic nominee if we knew him a little better; if he had been on the national scene a little longer; if his résumé had been filled out a little more. But, we also share the belief of most Americans that our country is heading in the wrong direction and is in dire need of fundamental change.

A Gallup Poll released earlier this month showed just 9 percent of Americans said they're satisfied with the way things are going, the lowest ever in the 29 years Gallup has asked the question.

Our economy is teetering, with the stock market losing trillions of dollars in value in a single week, jeopardizing the retirement plans of millions of Americans. Unemployment is up, retail and home sales are down and economists warn of a long, continued downturn. Our military is bogged down in Iraq while terrorists are regrouping in Afghanistan. And, our ability to rally world support has been badly damaged by substantiated allegations of torture and by eight years of arrogance and indifference toward traditional allies.

John McCain, Obama's Republican opponent, is an honorable man who served our country with valor during the Vietnam war and has gone on to forge a Senate career best known for his work across party lines. It is not fair or accurate to suggest that McCain's election would represent a third Bush term.

But on the most fundamental issues we face, McCain is offering a tweak or a minor adjustment to current policy, when what is needed is an overhaul. He favors continuation of a tax plan that widens the gap between the very wealthy and the very poor, and a foreign policy that has been obsessed on Iraq at the expense of other trouble spots, including Afghanistan and Pakistan from where the 9-11 plot was orchestrated.

Obama cannot match his more experienced opponent in legislative accomplishments. The senator from Illinois burst onto the national scene four years ago with his stirring speech at the Democratic Convention. He announced his candidacy In February 2007, and went on to defeat a stellar field of Democratic contenders, including our own Gov. Bill Richardson and Sen. Hillary Clinton. Along the way, he has appeared in almost 30 debates, given hundreds of stump speeches and spoken with thousands of reporters.

While Obama's résumé may be thin, his talents and abilities are anything but. In the nearly two years since his announcement, Obama has inspired a flock of new voters who are excited about the U.S. political system for the first time in their lives. He has demonstrated steady leadership and a keen intellect at a time when those qualities are most needed.

Joe Biden Rallies Mesilla

Shayne Adamski — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 02:55:01 EDT

Joe Biden visited Mesilla on Friday and talked to New Mexicans about how an Obama-Biden Administration will bring much needed change to New Mexico. He also talked about Barack's plan to strengthen the economy and support the working families of New Mexico.

He encouraged everyone in the crowd to vote early, and asked everyone to make sure their friends and family Early Vote.

Take a look at these photos from the event, and then visit www.voteforchange.com to find your Early Voting polling location.

Beautifully written..... thank you

Liz — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 16:58:46 EDT

Obama Will Be One of The Greatest (and Most Loved) American Presidents

by Frank Schaeffer

Great presidents are made great by horrible circumstances combined with character, temperament and intelligence. Like firemen, cops, doctors or soldiers, presidents need a crisis to shine.

Obama is one of the most intelligent presidential aspirants to ever step forward in American history. The likes of his intellectual capabilities have not been surpassed in public life since the Founding Fathers put pen to paper.

His personal character is also solid gold. Take heart, America: we have the leader for our times. I say this as a white, former life-long Republican. I say this as the proud father of a Marine. I say this as just another American watching his pension evaporate along with the stock market! I speak as someone who knows it's time to forget party loyalty, ideology and pride and put the country first. I say this as someone happy to be called a fool for going out on a limb and declaring that, 1) Obama will win, and 2) he is going to be amongst the greatest of American presidents.

Obama is our last best chance. He's worth laying it all on the line for. This is a man who in the age of greed took the high road of community service. This is the good father and husband. This is the humble servant. This is the patient teacher. This is the scholar statesman. This is the man of deep Christian faith. Good stories about Obama abound; from his personal relationship with his Secret Service agents (he invites them into his home to watch sports, and shoots hoops with them) to the story about how, more than twenty years ago, while standing in the check-in line at an airport, Obama paid a $100 baggage surcharge for a stranger who was broke and stuck. (Obama was virtually penniless himself in those days.) Years later after he became a senator, that stranger recognized Obama's picture and wrote to him to thank him. She received a kindly note back from the senator. (The story only surfaced because the person, who lives in Norway, told a local newspaper after Obama ran for the presidency. The paper published a photograph of this lady proudly displaying Senator Obama's letter.)

Where many leaders are two-faced; publicly kindly but privately feared and/or hated by people closest to them, Obama is consistent in the way he treats people, consistently kind and personally humble. He lives by the code that those who lead must serve. He believes that. He lives it. He lived it long before he was in the public eye. Obama puts service ahead of ideology. He also knows that to win politically you need to be tough. He can be. He has been. This is a man who does what works, rather than scoring ideological points. In other words he is the quintessential non-ideological pragmatic American. He will (thank God!) disappoint ideologues and purists of the left and the right.

Obama has a reservoir of personal physical courage that is unmatched in presidential history. Why unmatched? Because as the first black contender for the presidency who will win, Obama, and all the rest of us, know that he is in great physical danger from the seemingly unlimited reserve of unhinged racial hatred, and just plain unhinged ignorant hatred, that swirls in the bowels of our wounded and sinful country. By stepping forward to lead, Obama has literally put his life on the line for all of us in a way no white candidate ever has had to do. (And we all know how dangerous the presidency has been even for white presidents.)

Nice stories or even unparalleled courage isn't the only point. The greater point about Obama is that the midst of our worldwide financial meltdown, an expanding (and losing) war in Afghanistan, trying to extricate our country from a wrong and stupidly mistaken ruinously expensive war in Iraq, our mounting and crushing national debt, awaiting the next (and inevitable) al Qaeda attack on our homeland, watching our schools decline to Third World levels of incompetence, facing a general loss of confidence in the government that has been exacerbated by the Republicans doing all they can to undermine our government's capabilities and programs... President Obama will take on the leadership of our country at a make or break time of historic proportions. He faces not one but dozens of crisis, each big enough to define any presidency in better times. As luck, fate or divine grace would have it (depending on one's personal theology) Obama is blessedly, dare I say uniquely, well-suited to our dire circumstances.

Obama is a person with hands-on community service experience, deep connections to top economic advisers from the renowned University of Chicago where he taught law, and a middle-class background that gives him an abiding knowledgeable empathy with the rest of us. As the son of a single mother, who has worked his way up with merit and brains, recipient of top-notch academic scholarships, the peer-selected editor of the Harvard Law Review and, in three giant political steps to state office, national office and now the presidency, Obama clearly has the wit and drive to lead. Obama is the sober voice of reason at a time of unreason. He is the fellow keeping his head while all around him are panicking. He is the healing presence at a time of national division and strife. He is also new enough to the political process so that he doesn't suffer from the terminally jaded cynicism, the seen-it-all-before syndrome afflicting most politicians in Washington. In that regard we Americans lucked out.

It's as if having despaired of our political process we picked a name from the phone book to lead us and that person turned out to be a very man we needed. Obama brings a healing and uplifting spiritual quality to our politics at the very time when our worst enemy is fear. For eight years we've been ruled by a stunted fear-filled mediocrity of a little liar who has expanded his power on the basis of creating fear in others. Fearless Obama is the cure. He speaks a litany of hope rather than a litany of terror. As we have watched Obama respond in a quiet reasoned manner to crisis after crisis, in both the way he has responded after being attacked and lied about in the 2008 campaign season, to his reasoned response to our multiplying national crises, what we see is the spirit of a trusted family doctor with a great bedside manner. Obama is perfectly suited to hold our hand and lead us through some very tough times. The word panic is not in the Obama dictionary.

America is fighting its "Armageddon" in one fearful heart at a time. A brilliant leader with the mild manner of an old-time matter-of-fact country doctor soothing a frightened child is just what we need. The fact that our "doctor" is a black man leading a hitherto white-ruled nation out of the mess of its own making is all the sweeter and raises the Obama story to that of moral allegory. Obama brings a moral clarity to his leadership reserved for those who have had to work for everything they've gotten and had to do twice as well as the person standing next to them because of the color of their skin. His experience of succeeding in spite of his color, social background and prejudice could have been embittering or one that fostered a spiritual rebirth of forgiveness and enlightenment. Obama radiates the calm inner peace of the spirit of forgiveness. Speaking as a believing Christian I see the hand of a merciful God in Obama's candidacy. The biblical metaphors abound. The stone the builder rejected is become the cornerstone... the last shall be first... he that would gain his life must first lose it... the meek shall inherit the earth... For my secular friends I'll allow that we may have just been extraordinarily lucky! Either way America wins.

Only a brilliant man, with the spirit of a preacher and the humble heart of a kindly family doctor can lead us now. We are afraid, out of ideas, and worst of all out of hope. Obama is the cure. And we Americans have it in us to rise to the occasion. We will. We're about to enter one of the most frightening periods of American history. Our country has rarely faced more uncertainty. This is the time for greatness. We have a great leader. We must be a great people backing him, fighting for him, sacrificing for a cause greater than ourselves. A hundred years from now Obama's portrait will be placed next to that of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Roosevelt.

Long before that we'll be telling our children and grandchildren that we stepped out in faith and voted for a young black man who stood up and led our country back from the brink of an abyss. We'll tell them about the power of love, faith and hope. We'll tell them about the power of creativity combined with humility and intellectual brilliance. We'll tell them that President Obama gave us the gift of regaining our faith in our country. We'll tell them that we all stood up and pitched in and won the day. We'll tell them that President Obama restored our standing in the world. We'll tell them that by the time he left office our schools were on the mend, our economy booming, that we'd become a nation filled with green energy alternatives and were leading the world away from dependence on carbon-based destruction. We'll tell them that because of President Obama's example and leadership the integrity of the family was restored, divorce rates went down, more fathers took responsibility for their children, and abortion rates fell dramatically as women, families and children were cared for through compassionate social programs that worked.

We'll tell them about how the gap closed between the middle class and the super rich, how we won health care for all, how crime rates fell, how bad wars were brought to an honorable conclusion. We'll tell them that when we were attacked again by al Qaeda, how reason prevailed and the response was smart, tough, measured and effective, and our civil rights were protected even in times of crisis... We'll tell them that we were part of the inexplicably blessed miracle that happened to our country those many years ago in 2008 when a young black man was sent by God, fate or luck to save our country. We'll tell them that it's good to live in America where anything is possible. Yes we will.

(Frank Schaeffer is the author of CRAZY FOR GOD-How I Grew Up As One Of The Elect, Helped Found The Religious Right, And Lived To Take All (Or Almost All) Of It Back. Now in paperback.)

Every day is Election Day in New Mexico

Shayne Adamski — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 15:19:41 EDT

Starting today, every day is Election Day in New Mexico.

Early voting is fast, easy, and it could make the difference in this crucial battleground state. Show your friends and family that you've made up your mind and you're ready for change now.

Take the first step today. Find your Early Vote location.

Early voting is simple, safe, and convenient. It's also a vital part of our strategy.

The more supporters who make their voices heard now, the more energy and resources we can devote to our get out the vote efforts closer to Election Day.

All across the country, supporters like you are working together to grow this movement for change. We know that New Mexico families can't afford four more years of failed Bush-McCain policies.

This is our chance to take America in a new direction -- so the next four years don't look like the last eight.

Make your voice heard. http://www.voteforchange.com

Change We Need Rallly with Joe Biden

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:21:20 EDT

Change We Need Rally with Joe Biden

Please join us Friday, October 17th, for a rally with Joe Biden in Mesilla:

The Historic Mesilla Plaza
Calle de Guadeloupe and Calle de Parian
Mesilla, NM

Friday, October 17th
Doors Open: 11:30 a.m.
Program Begins: 1:30 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public; tickets are not required but an RSVP is encouraged.

Preferred viewing tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at one of the ticket distribution locations listed below.

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

Limited Parking near site in public lots. Carpooling strongly encouraged.

Ticket distribution locations:

Tickets will be available at the following locations Thursday, October 16th, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Campaign for Change - Anthony Office
880 Anthony Drive, Suite 13
Anthony, NM 88021
575-805-1276

Campaign for Change - Las Cruces Office
255 East Lohman Ave
Las Cruces, NM 88001
575-915-0614

Campaign for Change - Deming Office
501 East Spruce Street, Suite B
Deming, NM 88030
575-915-2449

Campaign for Change - Alamogordo Office
1517A 10th Street
Alamogordo, NM 88310
575-434-8388

The Obama-Biden Tax Relief Calculator

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 10:15:39 EDT

We've launched a new feature on the website that allows you to calculate the savings your family will received under Barack and Joe's tax plan, and compare that to the very little the McCain tax plan has to offer most Americans.

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

Write the emails...get this guy fired!!

I'm not Political, I'm GRASSROOTS! — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:04:09 EDT

Take action after you read this:

Jeff Frederick, the Republican Party, and the McCain campaign cannot be allowed a pass on smears such as this against Barack Obama. Obama supporters and other concerned parties are encouraged to contact the GOP and the McCain campaign, demand an apology from both, and demand Frederick's resignation:

McCain national campaign: info@johnmccain.com

McCain Virginia campaign virginia@johnmccain.com

Republican National Committee (Mike Duncan, Chair): chairman@gop.com

Virginia Republican Party: info@rpv.org

::::::::

The Republican national campaign reached a new low over the weekend when chairman Jeffrey M. Frederick of the Virginia Republican Party (pictured here) compared Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama to terrorist leader Osama bin Laden. Clumsily associating Obama with 60s militant William Ayers - a man with whom Obama was loosely acquainted within the context of legitimate charity work in Chicago - Frederick told McCain volunteers in Virginia that Obama and bin Laden "both have friends that bombed the Pentagon," concluding that this means Obama is "scary." These remarks were understood as talking points for the volunteers to convey to the voters of Virginia.

Democrats are understandably outraged by Frederick's comments, saying that this is only the latest in a series of inflammatory statements made by Republicans against Obama in the crucial battleground state of Virginia. First reported Oct. 12 in Time, Frederick's remarks are discussed further in the same date's Washington Post. Frederick stood by his statements when questioned later, and John McCain has declined to condemn or comment on Frederick's remarks. Meanwhile, even Republicans have conceded that smears like Frederick's against Obama are a loser's game.

Frederick's comparison of Obama with bin Laden is obviously not only inflammatory but ridiculous: Bin Laden was directly responsible for the 9/11 attacks on the Pentagon and the World Trade Center which killed thousands of people. Ayres was a member of a group that carried out a 1972 bombing at the Pentagon in which no one was hurt or killed, and with which then ten-year-old Barack Obama was in no way associated. Ayres is now is now a professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago, and once served on a charity board of which Obama was also a member. Obama has condemned Ayers's actions in the 1960s and 1970s, and describes him as "a guy who lives my neighborhood."

Frederick's remarks are the latest in a series of inflammatory statements by Republicans campaigning in Virginia. Recently, the head of the McCain campaign in Buchanan County, Virginia, was forced to resign after he published a column in a local newspaper including openly racist comments about Obama and African Americans as well as disparaging statements about immigrants and gay people. Recently also, John McCain's brother Joe described suburban Alexandria and Arlington County in Northern Virginia as "communist country."

Native American Health Issues Forum

Shayne Adamski — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 03:10:00 EDT

Last Monday, members of the Albuquerque Native American community joined the Campaign for Change to discuss health issues impacting the urban Native American community. Wizi Garriott, National Native American Vote Director, discussed the Obama-Biden plan to benefit Indian country and answered questions from participants.

Visit the NM Native Americans for Obama page.

"Blue Star Familes for Obama" new video

Connie from Memphis, TN — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:33:15 EDT

Share this new video on behalf of our Blue Star Families. "Blue Star Families" are those with active duty members deployed in active war zones.

Press Release Angie Morgan ~ Communications Director, Blue Star Families for Obama
571-235-4956
amorgan@leadstar.us
www.bsf4o.com
Blue Star Families Launch Video: Why We are Pro-Military, Pro-Obama
Blue Star Families for Obama launched a video today that articulates why Senator Barack Obama can count on military families for their votes on November 4th.
The video features eight military spouses who share their reasons for voting for Sen. Obama over Sen. McCain.
One Blue Star family member shares: McCain claims to work for us. His actions don't always agree. He campaigned against the new GI Bill, Voted against troop safety equipment, against vets health care, has a 20 percent rating from the Disabled American Vets.
Another Blue Star adds: Barack Obama shows he understands today's military. Obama will help reservists and military families, and he's frontlined mental health care, co-sponsored the GI Bill.
As Cindy McCain and Governor Sarah Palin leverage their Blue Star status to parlay votes for Senator John McCain,
BSF4O has been actively educating and informing the military community on why Sen. Obama is the right presidential candidate and would make the best Commander in Chief for our country.
BSF4O is a grassroots organization created by Army and Marine spouses who have a Pro-Military, Pro-Obama message. As a membership organization, BSF4O communicates with thousands of military family members through outreach programs and is active in 24 states.
Never before has the military family community shown their overwhelming support for the Democratic candidate. BSF4O are inspired and impressed by Sen. Obama's voting record and support of Veterans and the military family community. They also believe that Sen. Obama projects the most attractive American values across our country and our globe.
For more information on BSF4O, visit www.bsf4o.com.

http://www.motleymoose.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=385

"Soldiers Donate 6 times MORE to Obama"

Connie from Memphis, TN — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 15:34:56 EDT

Military donations favor Obama over McCain

WASHINGTON (AP) -- U.S. soldiers have donated more presidential campaign money to Democrat Barack Obama than to Republican John McCain, a reversal of previous campaigns in which military donations tended to favor GOP White House hopefuls, a nonpartisan group reported Thursday.

Troops serving abroad have given nearly six times as much money to Obama's presidential campaign as they have to McCain's, the Center for Responsive Politics said.

The results also are striking because they favored Obama, who never has served in the military. McCain meanwhile, is a decorated war veteran who spent nearly five years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. The Arizona senator graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and had a 22-year career as a naval aviator.

Obama has opposed the war in Iraq and says he would withdraw combat troops within 16 months. McCain has been a steadfast supporter of the war, saying he would withdraw the troops only when conditions on the ground warrant it.

"Obama will work tirelessly to uphold this nation's sacred trust with its veterans, to ensure they are not forgotten after they return home and he will provide our troops with the leadership they deserve, as well as the support they and their families need," Obama spokesman Nick Shapiro said.

McCain's campaign played down the significance of the donations.

"John McCain has been endorsed by more retired admirals and generals than Barack Obama has military donors," McCain spokesman Michael Goldfarb said in a statement.

"We feel confident that many U.S. troops stationed overseas will support John McCain in the election this fall, but we suspect most are too busy doing the important work of defending this country than to make political contributions," Goldfarb said.

Among soldiers serving overseas at the time of their donations, 134 gave a total of $60,642 to Obama while 26 gave a total of $10,665 to McCain.

The report tracked donations of $200 or more. It found that 859 members of the military donated a total of $335,536 to Obama. McCain received $280,513 from 558 military donors.

Video: Voting by Mail in New Mexico

Shayne Adamski — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:19:09 EDT

This election, we're encouraging our supporters to Vote by Mail.

Watch this video that we put together that explains how to request a Vote by Mail ballot, as well as how to properly fill out your ballot and return it.

Please share this page with all of your friends and visit http://www.voteforchange.com

"The REAL Maverick"

Connie from Memphis, TN — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:46:58 EDT

Direct link to make copies- http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/giveupdefunk/Barack-Hat2-Colorado.jpg

Tuesday is the last day you can register to vote

Shayne Adamski — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:26:27 EDT

Tuesday, October 7 is the last day that you can register to vote in New Mexico.

Are you registered? Is every member of your family registered? Are all of your friends registered?

Visit www.voteforchange.com to register right now. Your registration has to be postmarked with either today's date or Tuesday's date: October 7.

If you can't get it postmarked by tomorrow, then stop by your local field office and register to vote there. Here's a list of all of our offices.

New Health Care Ad: "Prescription"

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 21:25:57 EDT

Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released another 30 second TV ad, Prescription, which highlights how John McCain would tax health care benefits for the first time ever. And, the health care tax credit that McCain is promising, according to his own website, it goes straight to the insurance companies, not to the American people, leaving the middle class on their own to pay for this McCain health insurance tax.

Watch the video and share it with your friends. And then visit the Healthcare Issues page, where you can read Barack and Joe's plan to offer all New Mexicans affordable, quality healthcare.

Last chance to grow this movement

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:57:27 EDT

Brent Messenger, the New Mexico Field Director sent this email out today:

Dear Shayne,
Saturday marks exactly one month until Election Day. And with so little time remaining, we need your help more than ever.
This is the last weekend before New Mexico's voter registration deadline on Tuesday, October 7th.
That's why we're counting on supporters like you to help bring more people into the political process before it's too late.
We've set a goal of 4,000 Obama supporters joining a canvass this weekend to do the kind of work that wins elections -- talking to neighbors, registering people to vote, and growing this movement for change.
Sign up to join a canvass near you and start making a difference this weekend.
34 days is all the time we have left to help Barack win New Mexico. But poll after poll shows a very close race -- we can't stop now.
Our state is a crucial general election battleground, and we need to win here.
Invite a friend to join you at a weekend canvass to bring us closer to our 4,000-person goal, and closer to victory in November:
http://nm.barackobama.com/NMregions
We can't do this without you.
Thanks,

Brent
Brent Messenger
Field Director
New Mexico Campaign for Change
P.S. -- If you can't make it to a canvass this weekend, take a moment to share with your neighbors how you feel about Barack's plan to fix our economy and strengthen the middle class. Our online letter-to-the-editor tool makes it easier than ever to make your voice heard, so get started today:
http://nm.barackobama.com/NMyourvoiceEcon

One percent

Mike from Lansing, MI — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:16:04 EDT

1%, or 1 vote out of 100

There have been 12 Presidential elections that were decided by less than a 1% margin; meaning if less than 1% of the voters in certain states had changed their mind to the other candidate the outcome of the entire election would have been different. More than half were decided by less than a 2% margin.

In 2004,    57,787 votes would have given us President Kerry.
In 2000,    269 votes would have given us President Gore
In 1996,    575,515 votes would have given us President Dole.

From ABC News:

http://blogs.abcnews.com/scienceandsociety/2008/09/squeakers.html

==========
"Squeakers"
Ned Potter
ABC News
September 29, 2008

How close have Presidential elections been? Closer, perhaps, than we ever guessed. Mike Sheppard, a grad student in statistics at Michigan State, has done a mathematical exercise that shows it.

He ran a computer program to answer this question: "What is the smallest number of total votes that need to be switched from one candidate to another, and from which states, to affect the outcome of the election?"

The answer: in some years, very, very few. Take a look at his analysis HERE. It shows the powerful interaction between the popular vote and the electoral college.

[...]
==========

Full article here:
http://blogs.abcnews.com/scienceandsociety/2008/09/squeakers.html

Detailed analysis here, including colored maps:
https://www.msu.edu/~sheppa28/elections.html

-Mike Sheppard

Caroline Kennedy Rallies Santa Fe

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 03:35:51 EDT

Caroline Kennedy made a stop in Santa Fe last Friday to rally the troops as we near the Voter Registration deadline on Tuesday, October 7th.

She told the crowd that she's had so people come up to her during this campaign and tell her that they haven't felt this inspired by Barack since her father was President, and that that has meant a lot to her.

When she was done speaking, she took time to meet volunteers and sign autographs.

Check out some pictures from the event.

And if you have been moved and inspired and want CHANGE, now is the time to volunteer and get involved.

Hill Harper Kicks Off the Street Team Program

Shayne Adamski — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 01:29:56 EDT

Last week was the kickoff of the Stream Team in Albuquerque at Kelly's. More than 300 people signed up and committed to getting the word out about Obama-Biden and to register new voters before the Voter Registration deadline on Tues Oct 7.

The event was kicked off by local elected officials and actor Hill Harper, who has been friends with Barack since they attended law school together. He travels throughout the U.S. encouraging people to get involved in this campaign, so we can bring more people into the democratic process.

Check out some pictures from the event. And make sure you and all of your friends and family are registered to vote. Visit http://www.voteforchange.com

New Mexico: Register before it's too late

Shayne Adamski — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 14:05:57 EDT

Barack just sent out the following email to everyone in the state:

Shayne --
The last day to register to vote in New Mexico is Tuesday, October 7th.
Are you registered? Are your friends and family?
If you only forward one email to your friends, family, and neighbors today -- make it this one.
Each and every vote in New Mexico is absolutely crucial to victory on Election Day. In 2004, George Bush took the state by less than 1% of voters.
Visit VoteForChange.com, our one-stop voter registration website, and register before the New Mexico deadline.
Supporters like you have built the biggest grassroots movement in the history of American politics.
But in just 10 days, the time for bringing new voices into the political process will be over.
You need to be certain that you, your friends, and your family are registered by the deadline -- it's a small step that will have a huge impact on our Election Day results.
This election is too important to leave anything to chance. Make sure your voice is heard -- and forward this email to all the New Mexicans you know.
Thanks,
Barack

Fri: Debate Watch Party; Sat and Sun: Register Voters

Shayne Adamski — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 18:07:20 EDT

On Fri, Sept 26, join fellow Obama supporters at debate watch parties throughout the whole state. As we get one step closer to Election Day, this debate will highlight the differences between the two candidates. Bring a friend too!

Click to host or attend a watch party.

And after we're all fired up from the debate, join us on Saturday and Sunday for our Walk for Change.

This is the second to last weekend that we have to register new voters before the Voter Registration deadline on Tues, Oct 7. The importance of this --- is that if someone wants to vote for Obama-Biden and it's after Oct 7, and they aren't already registered to vote, they can't vote. So we need everyone's help to reach as many voters as possible between now and Oct 7.

Click to join a canvass this weekend!

And make sure all of your friends are registered to vote TODAY. Visit www.voteforchange.com to register to vote. It's quick and easy.

Please spread the word and forward this to a friend.

2 Weeks Left to Register to Vote

Shayne Adamski — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:35:45 EDT

The deadline to register to vote in New Mexico is Tues Oct 7th -- that's 2 weeks from today!! We need every single vote we can get to win this election. You'd be surprised by how many people you know who aren't registered to vote.

Visit http://www.voteforchange.com to find out if you're registered to vote, and if you aren't, you can register right there on the site. You can even get all the info you need on absentee voting and early voting too!

Help spread the word to your friends online:

Change your profile picture on MyBO and the other social network sites that you’re on: save this picture to your desktop, and then upload it to make it your profile picture.

The more people that do this at the same time, the more visibility it will get!

Tell all of your friends about http://www.voteforchange.com.

Thanks for your help!

John McCain and the Lying Game

Liz — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:29:02 EDT

copy from TIME magazine
Wednesday, Sep. 17, 2008 John McCain and the Lying Game By Joe Klein

Politics has always been lousy with blather and chicanery. But there are rules and traditions too. In the early weeks of the general-election campaign, a consensus has grown in the political community — a consensus that ranges from practitioners like Karl Rove to commentators like, well, me — that John McCain has allowed his campaign to slip the normal bounds of political propriety. The situation has gotten so intense that we in the media have slipped our normal rules as well. Usually when a candidate tells something less than the truth, we mince words. We use euphemisms like mendacity and inaccuracy ... or, as the Associated Press put it, "McCain's claims skirt facts." But increasing numbers of otherwise sober observers, even such august institutions as the New York Times editorial board, are calling John McCain a liar. You might well ask, What has McCain done to deserve this? What unwritten rules did he break? Are his transgressions of degree or of kind?

Almost every politician stretches the truth. We journalists try to point out the exaggerations and criticize them, then let the voters decide. When McCain says, for example, that Barack Obama favors a government-run health-care system, he's not telling the truth — Obama wants a market-based system subsidized by the government — but McCain's untruth illuminates a general policy direction, which is sketchy but sort of within the bounds. (Obama's plan would increase government regulation of the drug and insurance industries.) Obama has done this sort of thing too. In July, he accused McCain of supporting the foreign buyout of an American company that could lead to the loss of about 8,000 jobs in Wilmington, Ohio. McCain did support the deal, but the job loss comes many years later and was not anticipated at the time. That, however, is where the moral equivalency between these two campaigns ends.

McCain's lies have ranged from the annoying to the sleazy, and the problem is in both degree and kind. His campaign has been a ceaseless assault on his opponent's character and policies, featuring a consistent—and witting—disdain for the truth. Even after 38 million Americans heard Obama say in his speech at the Democratic National Convention that he was open to offshore oil-drilling and building new nuclear-power plants, McCain flatly said in his acceptance speech that Obama opposed both. Normal political practice would be for McCain to say, "Obama says he's 'open to' offshore drilling, but he's always opposed it. How can we believe him?" This persistence in repeating demonstrably false charges is something new in presidential politics.

Worse than the lies have been the smears. McCain ran a television ad claiming that Obama favored "comprehensive" sex education for kindergartners. (Obama favored a bill that would have warned kindergartners about sexual predators and improper touching.) The accusation that Obama was referring to Sarah Palin when he said McCain's effort to remarket his economic policies was putting "lipstick on a pig" was another clearly misleading attack — an obnoxious attempt to divert attention from Palin's lack of fitness for the job and the recklessness with which McCain chose her. McCain's assault on the "élite media" for spreading rumors about Palin's personal life — actually, the culprits were a few bloggers and the tabloid press — was more of the same. And that gets us close to the real problem here. The McCain camp has decided that its candidate can't win honorably, on the issues, so it has resorted to transparent and phony diversions.

This new strategy emerged during the first week of Obama's overseas trip in late July. McCain had been intending to contrast his alleged foreign policy expertise and toughness with Obama's inexperience and alleged weakness. McCain wanted to "win" the Iraq war and face down the Iranians. But those issues became moot when the Iraqis said they favored Obama's withdrawal plan and the Bush Administration started talking to the Iranians. At that point, McCain committed his original sin — out of pique, I believe — questioning Obama's patriotism, saying the Democrat would rather lose a war than lose an election. Ever since, McCain's campaign has been a series of snide and demeaning ads accompanied by the daily gush of untruths that have now been widely documented and exposed. The strategy is an obvious attempt to camouflage the current unpopularity of his Republican brand, the insubstantiality of his vice-presidential choice, and his agreement on most issues — especially economic matters — with an exceedingly unpopular President.

The good news is that the vile times may be ending. The coming debates will decide this race, and it isn't easy to tell lies when your opponent is standing right next to you. The Wall Street collapse demands a more sober campaign as well. But these dreadful weeks should not be forgotten. John McCain has raised serious questions about whether he has the character to lead the nation. He has defaced his beloved military code of honor. He has run a dirty campaign.

McCain: No Clue...No Plan...No Leadership on Economic Crisis

Vicki "Hussein" in New Mexico — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 10:51:23 EDT

John McCain told the Wall Street Journal in November, 2007: "I'm going to be honest: I know a lot less about economics than I do about military and foreign policy issues. I still need to be educated." Ten months ago at the January 10, 2008 Republican Debate in Myrtle Beach, even Mitt Romney knew that the country was in trouble and headed for a recession if we didn't do something about the housing crisis and middle class tax breaks. But John McCain kept singing the song that the economy was fundamentally strong:

All six of the Republican presidential candidates were asked tonight whether they believe the U.S. economy is headed towards a recession, and whether the federal government should step in to help.
“Could we be headed for a recession? Absolutely. Do we have to be headed for a recession? Absolutely not,” said Mitt Romney.
The former Massachusetts governor said the “number one” thing the federal government has to do to help the economy is stop the housing crisis — although he did not lay out how that should be done. Romney also advocated for middle-class tax cuts, lowering gas prices in a broader effort to be energy independent, and making significant R&D investments in science and technology.
Sen. John McCain disputed the suggestion. “I don’t believe we’re headed into a recession,” he said, “I believe the fundamentals of this economy are strong and I believe they will remain strong. This is a rough patch, but I think America’s greatness lies ahead of us.”
The Arizona Senator argued reining in federal spending was the most fundamental thing the government could do. It’s “what caused interest rates to rise. It causes people to be less able to afford their own homes. We need to stop the spending and that way, we can get our budget under control and we can have basically a strong fundamental fiscal underpinning.” http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2008/01/10/are-we-headed-toward-a-recession/

Now the Republican administration is proposing $1 Trillion of government spending to stop the economic crisis.

The Nation has an article by Mark Sumner about John McCain as a "Crisis Enabler" which every voter should read http://www.thenation.com/doc/20081006/sumner. It's conclusion says it all:

"It may come as a surprise to the champions of deregulation, but nobody likes regulation. The restrictions that were placed on banks, S&Ls and other institutions in the 1930s weren't put there because someone thought it would be fun. They were put in place because they addressed problems that had just been clearly and painfully revealed. They were put in place because they were necessary.
It's bad enough if John McCain didn't know that. It's far worse if he did. "

Barack in Espanola: "We're in this together"

Shayne Adamski — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 17:11:40 EDT

Barack held a rally in Espanola on Thursday, September 18, on a warm but beautiful day. He spoke to an energized crowd of 9,500 people and asked everyone in New Mexico to knock on some doors, make some phone calls, and talk to your neighbors.

"...if you will roll up their sleeves with me, if you will believe with me, then I promise you this, we will not just win NM, we will win this General Election, and then you, and I, together, we're going to change this country, and we're going to change the world.
...right here in NM, you’ll be the difference maker."

Visit http://nm.barackobama.com and get involved today!

Watch the closing remarks of Barack's speech:

Check out pictures from the day:

Watch the full speech:

Gettin' Grassroots

Alisa — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 14:44:49 EDT

So many things going on in the U.S. right now, not to mention the entire world. We are at a very vulnerable time which is leaving us open for much more disasterous and devastating events. It is now that we have to grab ahold of the CHANGE that Obama is offering. We have to get back to our grassroots and restart our lives the way our fouding Fathers started. By Gettin' Grassroots, we can start by revitalizing our local community which will in turn revitalize our national economy. So, Shop locally and support your small businesses (for we struggle too, but are not getting bailed out by the FED). Not only will your small businesses be thankful for your business, but they will most likely be the one's to support your child's school fundraising events, buying local produce is not only healthy but also safer since it does not transit through so many hands and it is very inexpensive--so shop at your local farmer's market. Also, by buying local there is less environmental waste in transport, hence keeping your bottom line prices lower. By Gettin' Grassroots we can maintain our "roots" and lessen our vulnerability which is so present out there today.

Walk for Change: 3 Weekends Left to Register Voters

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:21:36 EDT

Including this weekend, there are only 3 full weekends left to register voters until the Voter Registration deadline on Tuesday, October 7. After October 7, no one can register to vote in the General Election.

If people aren't registered to vote by October 7, they can't vote on November 4 for Obama-Biden. So please join us this weekend as we Walk for Change throughout the whole state.

Every voter that we talk to is important, and the more volunteers that we have out canvassing means that we talk to more voters.

Find a canvass near you: http://my.barackobama.com/nmregions

...and please spend part of your weekend with us.

This is the best thing that you can do for Barack and Joe, because it's all about the number of voters we register.

YES WE CAN!!

New Mexico Campaign for Change
http://nm.barackobama.com
text NM to 62262

Gov. Richardson opens new South Santa Fe Office

Shayne Adamski — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:44:53 EDT

Governor Richardson kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month at our newest office in Santa Fe. The Santa Fe office is the campaign's 35th office in the state. At the opening, Gov. Richardson announced the launch of our newest group, Hispanics for Obama.

The New Mexico Campaign for Change is going to host a series of Hispanic policy roundtables and veterans tours around the state in the coming weeks.

The Gov. went on to stay:

"We will bring together Hispanic leaders from New Mexico and beyond to traverse the state, listen to the concerns of the Hispanic communities and deliver the message of change – change that Barack Obama will deliver for New Mexican families."

Joining Gov. Richardson were State Auditor Hector Balderas, Santa Fe County Commissioner Virginia Vigil, Speaker of the House Ben Lujan, and Santa Fe Mayor David Coss.

The crowd of 120 people was encouraged to sign up to phone bank and canvass, because it’s up to us to own a piece of this campaign and reach out to voters to win this election in November.

The Gov. also told the crowd:

"You will decide if we want a President who will stand up for Hispanic families all over New Mexico and the country or whether we will have 4 more years of the same failed Bush policies.

The address for the new office is:
Santa Fe – Zafarano Office
3494 Zafarano Drive, Suite B
Santa Fe, NM 87507

Please stop by and check out our new digs (and sign up to volunteer), and check out some pictures from the event...

South Valley Office now open for business (and field work)

Shayne Adamski — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:28:18 EDT

The South Valley field office officially opened its doors on Saturday, September 13 to a crowd of 150 people. U.S. Congressman Joe Baca, State Auditor Hector Balderas, State Senator-Elect Eric Griego, and State Senator Linda Lopez were in attendance. They talked about the importance of phone banking and knocking on doors, and getting out there and registering voters.

Congressman Baca passionately spoke about a lot of issues, including better healthcare for children and adults and a better education system for our children because No Child Left Behind is not working. He said all of these things are possible under an Obama administration and how important it is to elect Barack Obama as our next President.

Please stop by the office today and volunteer, because we need everyone’s help to elect Barack Obama President.

Here's the address:
Albuquerque - South Valley Office
3211 Coors Blvd SW, Suite A 3-4L
Albuquerque, NM 87121
(in the shopping center)
505-907-9028

Swing by and check out our new digs. And in the mean time, check out pictures from the event...

Cute

Liz — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:10:09 EDT

The more I research Palin the more offended I become. It's about exhausting now. As a Women's Health Care provider I cannot tolerate anything she stands for. I have delivered babies to 12 year old girls and there is nothing CUTE about it. There is nothing CUTE about a little girl hurting so badly with her first Herpes outbreak that she can't "pee". Her mother forbidding her to attend sex education, because it will MAKE her have sex!? Forbidding Family Planning methods because HER daughter will never have sex. Really? If I had a penny for all the times I heard mother's........ well.

Coming from Europe and a country fairly close to Russia, I certainly don't think it qualifies me to negotiate with Putin. I could be wrong of course. My son and I both play hockey and have for years, it's a fun sport, maybe I can find common ground with Putin on that.

Putin also likes hunting and recently bagged himself a big cat. Palin pushes for hunting animals from helicopters and maybe the US and Russia could get together on some cross border hunting parties now that global warming have melted the ice cap and we don't need those pesky ice breakers anymore.

I'm glad we are praying for the Big Oil companies too so I can still get the power I need to run my ice rink.

Barack Obama to Hold a "Change We Need" Rally in Espanola on Thursday

Shayne Adamski — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:23:18 EDT

Barack will return to New Mexico on Thursday, September 18 and host a Change We Need Rally at the Plaza Española in Española, New Mexico.

        CHANGE WE NEED RALLY WITH BARACK OBAMA
        Plaza de Española
        706 Bond St
        Española, NM 87532

        Doors Open: 10:30 am

The event is free and open to the public; however, a ticket is required. To access a ticket online, please visit http://nm.barackobama.com/espanolachange, or visit one of our ticket distribution locations listed below.

TICKET DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS

** Tickets will be available on Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 am to 9 pm. **

Santa Fe Campaign for Change Office (St. Michaels)
720 St. Michaels Drive 2-N
Santa Fe NM 87505

Sante Fe Campaign for Change Office (Zafarano)
3494 Zafarano Drive Suite B
Santa Fe, NM 87507

Raton Campaign for Change Office
101 N. 3rd St.
Raton, NM 87740

Los Almos Campaign for Change Office
2610 Trinity Drive Suite 22
Los Alamos, NM 87544

Taos Campaign for Change Office
729 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur Unit A
Taos, NM 87571

Las Vegas Campaign for Change Office
213 Plaza St.
Las Vegas, NM 87701

Espanola Campaign for Change Office
209 N. Riverside Drive, Suite C
Espanola, NM 87532

Garrison Keillor's Op-Ed: " 'Throw the Bums out' Say the Bums"

Vicki "Hussein" in New Mexico — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 07:57:01 EDT

I enjoy Garrison Keillor and his radio show "A Prairie Home Companion". Last month, my husband and I happily attended his Rhubarb Tour show in Santa Fe. His funny, warm, and thoughtful music, prose, and humor are reminiscent of a fine blend of Woody Guthrie and Will Rogers -- American humor with a populist national conscience. He recently wrote in The Baltimore Sun his reflection on the Republican National Convention:

So the Republicans have decided to run against themselves. The bums have tiptoed out the back door and circled around to the front and started yelling, "Throw the bums out!" They've been running Washington like a well-oiled machine, to the point of inviting lobbyists into the back rooms to write the legislation, and now they are anti-establishment reformers dedicated to delivering us from themselves. And Giuliani is an advocate for small-town America. Bravo.

They are coming out for Small Efficient Government the very week that the feds are taking over Fannie and Freddie, those old cash cows, and in the course of a weekend 20 or 50 or (pick a number) billion go floating out the Treasury door.

It is a bold move on the Republicans' part - forget about the past, it's only history, so write a new narrative and be who you want to be - and if they succeed, I think I might declare myself a 24-year-old virgin named Lance and see what that might lead to. Paste a new face on my Facebook page, maybe become the Dauphin Louie the 32nd, the rightful heir to the Throne of France, put on silk tights and pantaloons and a plumed hat and go on the sawdust circuit and sell souvenir hankies imprinted with the royal fleur-de-lis.

John McCain has decided to run as a former POW and a maverick, a maverick's maverick, rather than Mr. Bush's best friend, and that's understandable - but how can he not address the $3 trillion that got burned up in Iraq so far? It's real money; it could've paid for a lot of windmills, a high-speed rail line in Ohio, some serious research and development. The Chinese, who have avoided foreign wars for 50 years, are taking enormous leaps forward, investing in their economy, and we are falling behind. We're wasting our chances.

And a former mayor of a town of 7,000 who hired a lobbyist to get $26 million in federal earmarks is now running against the old-boy network in Washington who gave her that money to build the teen rec center and other good things so she could keep taxes low in Wasilla. Stunning. And if you question her qualifications to be the leader of the free world, you are an elitist. This is a beautiful maneuver. I wish I had thought of it back in school when I was forced to subject myself to a final exam in higher algebra. I could have told Miss Mortenson, "I am a Christian, and when you gave me a D you only showed your contempt for the Lord and for the godly, hard-working people from whom I have sprung, you elitist battleax, you."

In school, you couldn't get away with that garbage because the taxpayers know that if we don't uphold scholastic standards, we will wind up driving on badly designed bridges and go in for a tonsillectomy and come out missing our left lung, so we flunk the losers, lest they gain power and hurt us. But in politics, we bring forth phonies and love them to death.

When you check the actuarial tables on a 72-year-old guy who's had three bouts with cancer, you guess you may be looking at the first female president, a hustling evangelical with a chip on her shoulder who, not counting Canada, has set foot outside the country once - a trip to Germany, Iraq and Kuwait in 2007 to visit Alaskans in the armed service. And who listed a refueling stop in Ireland as a fourth country visited. She's like the Current Occupant but with big hair. If you want inexperience, there were better choices.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/oped/bal-op.keillor11sep11,0,4084302,print.story

Joe Biden Speaks to National HQ Staff and Volunteers

Shayne Adamski — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 15:49:10 EDT

Joe Biden recently visited the national Headquarters office in Chicago and spoke with the staff.

He talked about how excited he is to be a part of the team, and what a great organizational structure we've built to win this election.

Watch the video and share it with your friends....

McCain on The View

Alisa — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 15:28:32 EDT

Here is the link to McCain on The View that you need to watch. Go ladies, go...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lST-VU9bgPY

Email from Gov. Richardson, asking us to help Barack bring real change to NM

Shayne Adamski — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 17:13:12 EDT

Earlier in the week, Gov. Richardson sent out an email to all Obama supporters in New Mexico asking us to help Barack bring real change to New Mexico.

As we enter this final stretch in the campaign, we need everyone's help.

* If you haven't volunteered yet, please spend a few hours of your week helping the campaign.

* If you're an active volunteer, thank you so much.

Here's Gov. Richardson's email:

Shayne,
Bring change to New Mexico Did you see what I saw?
If you watched the Republican National Convention last week, you saw a whole lot of insults thrown at Barack Obama and at people trying to make change in their communities.
But you didn't see a single real proposal for how to fix this economy.
Just last Saturday, John McCain and Sarah Palin were campaigning here in New Mexico because they know how important New Mexico is in the race for President.
Now, you have an opportunity to teach them something they apparently don't know -- how effective community organizing can be.
Check out Neighbor to Neighbor, a new online tool the Obama campaign developed that makes it easier than ever to grow this movement.
With Neighbor to Neighbor, they're putting the tools in your hands so you can make a difference right in your own community.
Just enter your name and location, and the website will provide you with a list of phone numbers and addresses of people near you to contact -- on your own time, and on your own schedule.
New Mexico was one of only two states that voted Democratic in 2000, but Republican in 2004. George W. Bush won on his second try in New Mexico by less than one percentage point -- not even 6,000 votes.
Once again, our state is a crucial general election battleground. Barack needs us to deliver New Mexico -- with your help, we can make it happen.
Act now to show the Republicans that real change comes from the bottom up -- and community organizing really works.
Use our new Neighbor to Neighbor tool today and start reaching out to your community:
http://nm.barackobama.com/n2n
In my lifetime of diplomacy and governing, our country has never faced as many difficult challenges as we do today.
America needs change. America needs Barack Obama.
Thanks,
Governor Bill Richardson
P.S. -- I want to tell you about another new way to make your voice heard. The Republicans want to make this election a smear contest, but if you take a moment to write a letter to the editor, you can help make sure it stays focused on the issues that matter to you. With our online letter to the editor tool, you can quickly and easily send a note to local and national newspapers. Get started right now and share why you're supporting Barack:
http://nm.barackobama.com/NMYourVoice

Two new ads from the campaign: 'Real Change' and 'Still'

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 20:18:07 EDT

Today, the Obama campaign released two new 30-second TV ads, Real Change, which details what "change" is to Senator Obama and Still which details why John McCain would just be another out of touch president offering more of the same.

Watch Real Change...

Watch Still...

Click on "mail to a friend" to share this page with your friends to they can watch the new ads too.

Join us this weekend and Walk for Change

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 18:15:48 EDT

We're entering a crucial time in the campaign --- there are just over 50 days left until November 4th and every day counts. Every day that goes by is a day that we can't get back, so we need to work hard every day.

Join us this weekend for our Walk for Change throughout the whole state. This is an opportunity for you to make a big impact because this is the best thing that you can do for the campaign and for Barack.

Every voter that we talk to is important, and the more volunteers that we have out canvassing means that we talk to more voters.

Please spend part of your weekend with us.

Find a canvass near you.

We'll see you this weekend!

Statement of Senator Barack Obama on the Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks

Shayne Adamski — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:05:26 EDT

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

Today, we honor the memory of the lives that were lost on September 11, 2001, and grieve with the families and friends who lost someone they loved in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. We will never forget those who died. We will always remember the extraordinary efforts of our firefighters, police and emergency responders, and those who sacrificed their own lives on Flight 93 to protect their fellow Americans. And we give thanks for the Americans defending us every day in our communities at home, and in our military abroad.
On 9/11, Americans across our great country came together to stand with the families of the victims, to donate blood, to give to charity, and to say a prayer for our country. Let us renew that spirit of service and that sense of common purpose. Let us remember that the terrorists responsible for 9/11 are still at large, and must be brought to justice. Let us resolve to defeat terrorist networks, defend the American homeland, stand up for the enduring American values that we cherish, and seek a new birth of freedom at home and around the world.

Spreading the word: piece by Thomas L. Friedman

Liz — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 21:27:32 EDT

September 3, 2008

And Then There Was One

By THOMAS L. FRIEDMAN

With his choice of Sarah Palin — the Alaska governor who has advocated drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and does not believe mankind is playing any role in climate change — for vice president, John McCain has completed his makeover from the greenest Republican to run for president to just another representative of big oil.

Given the fact that Senator McCain deliberately avoided voting on all eight attempts to pass a bill extending the vital tax credits and production subsidies to expand our wind and solar industries, and given his support for lowering the gasoline tax in a reckless giveaway that would only promote more gasoline consumption and intensify our addiction to oil, and given his desire to make more oil-drilling, not innovation around renewable energy, the centerpiece of his energy policy — in an effort to mislead voters that support for drilling today would translate into lower prices at the pump today — McCain has forfeited any claim to be a green candidate.

So please, students, when McCain comes to your campus and flashes a few posters of wind turbines and solar panels, ask him why he has been AWOL when it came to Congress supporting these new technologies.

“Back in June, the Republican Party had a round-up,” said Carl Pope, the executive director of the Sierra Club. “One of the unbranded cattle — a wizened old maverick name John McCain — finally got roped. Then they branded him with a big ‘Lazy O’ — George Bush’s brand, where the O stands for oil. No more maverick.

“One of McCain’s last independent policies putting him at odds with Bush was his opposition to drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge,” added Pope, “yet he has now picked a running mate who has opposed holding big oil accountable and been dismissive of alternative energy while focusing her work on more oil drilling in a wildlife refuge and off of our coasts. While the northern edge of her state literally falls into the rising Arctic Ocean, Sarah Palin says, ‘The jury is still out on global warming.’ She’s the one hanging the jury — and John McCain is going to let her.”

Indeed, Palin’s much ballyhooed confrontations with the oil industry have all been about who should get more of the windfall profits, not how to end our addiction.

Barack Obama should be doing more to promote his green agenda, but at least he had the courage, in the heat of a Democratic primary, not to pander to voters by calling for a lifting of the gasoline tax. And while he has come out for a limited expansion of offshore drilling, he has refrained from misleading voters that this is in any way a solution to our energy problems.

I am not against a limited expansion of off-shore drilling now. But it is a complete sideshow. By constantly pounding into voters that his energy focus is to “drill, drill, drill,” McCain is diverting attention from what should be one of the central issues in this election: who has the better plan to promote massive innovation around clean power technologies and energy efficiency.

Why? Because renewable energy technologies — what I call “E.T.” — are going to constitute the next great global industry. They will rival and probably surpass “I.T.” — information technology. The country that spawns the most E.T. companies will enjoy more economic power, strategic advantage and rising standards of living. We need to make sure that is America. Big oil and OPEC want to make sure it is not.

Palin’s nomination for vice president and her desire to allow drilling in the Alaskan wilderness “reminded me of a lunch I had three and half years ago with one of the Russian trade attachés,” global trade consultant Edward Goldberg said to me. “After much wine, this gentleman told me that his country was very pleased that the Bush administration wanted to drill in the Alaskan wilderness. In his opinion, the amount of product one could actually derive from there was negligible in terms of needs. However, it signified that the Bush administration was not planning to do anything to create alternative energy, which of course would threaten the economic growth of Russia.”

So, college students, don’t let anyone tell you that on the issue of green, this election is not important. It is vitally important, and the alternatives could not be more black and white.

It's Time to Take Out the Big Guns

Isabel S — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:26:41 EDT

Senator Obama,

It's time to be the Incredible Hulk. It's time to be Superman because it's up to you to save our party. It's up to you to save our country. It's up to you to save this planet because McCain/Palin sure won't.

Dems: Damn the Torpedoes and Take No Prisoners

by Amb. Marc Ginsberg

The conventions are over. So now, my Democratic friends and allies, it's time to arrest McCain's bump. It's time to take out the big guns. Time to dispatch the battle tanks and set sail the fleet. Time to stop the niceties about oh, how John has been a good friend and a hero. We've heard every detail by now.

McSame is committing grand larceny... stealing the "change" message. He's throwing the wool over voters' eyes. He's pretending that the he's not the latest GOP fox in the henhouse. Hiding behind the skirts of Sarah Palin, the GOP is swift-boating the truth once again. And Democrats should be ready with an overwhelming counterattack.

That McCain/Palin pig (with pink lipstick) can't fly, and it shouldn't defy the colossal weight of eight years of Bush failures both at home and abroad.

1. If Hillary is uncomfortable taking Gov. Palin dead on, well, then, Barbara Boxer and Claire McCaskill and other "take no prisoner" Democratic female surrogates should be hitting the airways hourly. Sen. Boxer was terrific yesterday on Late Edition. She had every anti-McCain and Palen fact down cold, and her machine-gun like delivery hit the target dead on. Tailor talking points to focus on the issues that women care about, like health care, education, job opportunity, social and economic security.

2. Get the fact sheets out on the McCain-Palin embrace of the Bush/Cheney record. They should be air-dropped (internet and airplane!) into every battleground state. I have yet to see a succinct factual rebuttal in straight-forward form that can easily be distributed and absorbed by every Democratic activist from California to New Hampshire.

3. The campaign should be drafting bullet-proof op-eds/and letters to the editor to be signed by surrogates well-armed with armour piercing facts that rebut the McCain change/reform message.

4. Narrow down into pure simple detail the Obama/Biden economic message. What are the 10 things that the Democrats are going to do to create jobs, solve the housing crisis, make college education affordable, make health insurance a reasonable reality. Voters deserve to know the basics and not be overwhelmed with the small print. Get it out to every Democratic precinct captain or as a direct mailer to independent voters.

5. Keep up a steady barrage highlighting McCain's country-club tax plan, and its special giveaways to favored corporate recipients. Middle class Americans will be furious if they learn that McCain is preparing another tax-giveaway to the unneedy.

6. If Karl Rove were working for Democrats, he would be plotting every conceivable way to cause the legendary McCain temper to rear its ugly head right there in front of the national media.

7. Get the surrogates well trained to jump on conservative talk radio. Geared to do battle, and well-armed with bullet-proof points to defend the Obama/Biden record; and ready to take on McCain's record. Avoid wasting ammunition over Gov. Palin. Let the press handle her. She may have been a game-changer, but McCain will be making the decisions, not her.

8. Attack McCain's foreign go-it-alone reckless policy plans. Mobilize the Democratic generals and admirals supporting Obama and McCain to hit the conservative talk radio circuit that independents listen to. McCain will take Bush-Cheney unilateralism to a new, even more reckless level. His foreign policy will isolate America even further, and bring even greater dissatisfaction for the United States among our existing and potential allies abroad. Independents don't want four more years of Bush-Cheney policies that have undermined our image and stature abroad.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/amb-marc-ginsberg/dems-damn-the-torpedoes-t_b_124974.html

Sen. Barack Obama to Return to New Mexico

Shayne Adamski — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 13:00:00 EDT

The New Mexico Campaign for Change is pleased to announce that Sen. Obama will make his fifth visit to New Mexico on September 18th. Sen. Obama will host an event in northern New Mexico.

More details will be announced as soon as they are available.

Bookmark the New Mexico home page (nm.barackobama.com) so you can stay up to date.

What is a Community Organzer?

Carlos Provencio — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:21:04 EDT

What is a Community Organizer?
A Message from Angela Glover Blackwell, Founder and CEO of PolicyLink
This week, we’ve heard a lot of mocking of community organizers. Former New York Gov. George Pataki even took time to ask, “What in God’s name is a community organizer?”

Well, governor, I’ll tell you.

Community organizers are the ones who fill in the cracks left behind by government and the private sector. They are the ones who helped regular people change their block, their neighborhood, their city, even their country. They are the ones who are there to stop absent landlords, rally for new parks or hold crooked politicians accountable. They are the ones who are needed most by those most in need.

Without community organizers, we wouldn’t have had the civil rights movement. Without community organizers, we wouldn’t have even the most basic labor protections. Without community organizers, parents wouldn’t have the power to make sure their kids’ school was up to snuff.

There are many kinds of experience we need in our political leaders. To dismiss the hard, vital work of community organizers is an insult to everyone who has ever carried a picket sign, spoken out for justice or rallied for a better, more just world.

Hatch Field Office Grand Opening

Shayne Adamski — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 17:44:51 EDT

Join us for the grand opening of the Hatch Field Office on Saturday, September 6 at 1 pm. This is the first ever presidential campaign office in Hatch, New Mexico.

In reaching out to communities that have never before been engaged by presidential campaigns, the New Mexico Campaign for Change looks to build a culture of participation and empowerment amongst people of all backgrounds.

The celebration will include delicious food, live music (courtesy of Las Cruces' 'Mariachi Espuelas de Plata'), and members of the community – who are all committed to creating the type of change we so badly need in this country.

Please RSVP here.

If you can't make it to the grand opening, you're more than welcome to stop by and check out the office in the coming days and find out about volunteer opportunities.

The Hatch Field Office is one of more than 25+ offices in the state. View a complete list of the NM offices.

Live at the Democratic Convention

Carlos Provencio — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 10:45:02 EDT

I had the opportunity to be at the convention and was able to listen to Barack Obama in person, with over 83,000 in attendance. The enthusiasm and heartfelt camaraderie was overwhelming.

This has to be one of my all-time highlights in my varied life experiences. Obama was very specific and to the point in his delivery leaving no doubt in his ability to both be a formidable opponent to the republicans and yet share his passion and love will all Americans.

The following are key points to his delivery.

“Let me spell out exactly what that change would mean if I am president,”Change means a tax code that doesn't reward the lobbyists who wrote it, but the American workers and small businesses who deserve it.I will stop giving tax breaks to companies that ship jobs overseas, and I will start giving them to companies that create good jobs right here in America.I will eliminate capital gains taxes for the small businesses and start-ups that will create the high-wage, high-tech jobs of tomorrow.I will cut taxes for 95 percent of all working families, because, in an economy like this, the last thing we should do is raise taxes on the middle class.I will set a clear goal as president: In 10 years, we will finally end our dependence on oil from the Middle East.I will tap our natural gas reserves, invest in clean coal technology, and find ways to safely harness nuclear power. I'll help our auto companies re-tool, so that the fuel-efficient cars of the future are built right here in America.I will make it easier for the American people to afford these new cars.I will invest $150 billion over the next decade in affordable, renewable sources of energy -- wind power, and solar power, and the next generation of biofuels -- an investment that will lead to new industries and 5 million new jobs that pay well and can't be outsourced.Now is the time to finally meet our moral obligation to provide every child a world-class education, because it will take nothing less to compete in the global economy.I will invest in early childhood education. I'll recruit an army of new teachers, and pay them higher salaries, and give them more support. ]If you commit to serving your community or our country, we will make sure you can afford a college education.Now -- now is the time to finally keep the promise of affordable, accessible health care for every single American.If you have health care, my plan will lower your premiums. If you don't, you'll be able to get the same kind of coverage that members of Congress give themselves.I will make certain those companies stop discriminating against those who are sick and need care the most.Now is the time to help families with paid sick days and better family leave, because nobody in America should have to choose between keeping their job and caring for a sick child or an ailing parent.Now is the time to change our bankruptcy laws, so that your pensions are protected ahead of CEO bonuses, and the time to protect Social Security for future generations.And now is the time to keep the promise of equal pay for an equal day's work, because I want my daughters to have the exact same opportunities as your sons.Now, many of these plans will cost money, which is why I've laid out how I'll pay for every dime: by closing corporate loopholes and tax havens that don't help America grow.I will go through the federal budget line by line, eliminating programs that no longer work and making the ones we do need work better and cost less, because we cannot meet 21st-century challenges with a 20th-century bureaucracy.We must also admit that fulfilling America's promise will require more than just money. It will require a renewed sense of responsibility from each of us to recover what John F. Kennedy called our intellectual and moral strength. Quotable quotesRenewed sense of responsibility “And Democrats, we must also admit that fulfilling America's promise will require more than just money. It will require a renewed sense of responsibility from each of us to recover what John F. Kennedy called our "intellectual and moral strength." Immigration“Passions fly on immigration, but I don't know anyone who benefits when a mother is separated from her infant child or an employer undercuts American wages by hiring illegal workers. This too is part of America's promise - the promise of a democracy where we can find the strength and grace to bridge divides and unite in common effort.” Americans as leaders

“You have shown what history teaches us - that at defining moments like this one, the change we need doesn't come from Washington. Change comes to Washington. Change happens because the American people demand it - because they rise up and insist on new ideas and new leadership, a new politics for a new time.”

Marshall Ganz resources on the web

Carlos Provencio — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:51:25 EDT

I discovered a great resource on organzing by Marshall Ganz our trainer for Camp Obama in New Mexcio. It is great for review on what he presented in our training and is a resource for those that would like to present his training in your local community.

Camp Obama was focused on the Hispanic Community here in New Mexico. It was presented on August 22 and 23 to local Hispanic leaders empower themselves with the skills to mobilize voters in their New Mexico communities.

The website is http://isites.harvard.edu/icb/icb.do?keyword=k2139

Welcome to Marshall Ganz’s Web module on organizing. Professor Ganz is a long-time organizer; a Lecturer in Public Policy at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University; and a principal of Harvard’s Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations.

New Mexico Office Spotlight: Las Cruces

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joe Biden!

Chris Hightower — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 10:03:00 EDT

The Obama / Biden ticket will be amazing. This is a ticket that every democrat can stand behind, and I know that we will be victorious in November.

Stop by the campaign headquarters

Matt Hartman — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 01:38:35 EDT

If you live in Las Cruces, I'd encourage you to drop by the Las Cruces headquarters at the corner of Campo and Lohman. I've met a lot of cool people there. The staff is really friendly and would love to have you come buy.

They are currently forming neighborhood teams. I've met a number of my neighbors by joining one of these teams - 611 in the house! So yeah. Stop by. You won't regret it. I promise. I sure didn't.

It is time to start volunteering our time

Ken Murray — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 11:46:27 EDT

I have formed a Group called Las Cruces Retired Military for Obama. It is not meant to take away from the New Mexico Veterans for Obama, but to augment it. I hope to attract as members those who are Retired from a career in the Military. As retired Military supporters we will have added impact when talking to undecided voters from the phone banks, and we can hopefully gather from time to time, and maybe attend events together. If anyone knows Retired Military who support Sen. Obama for President, please encourage them to join the Group "Las Cruces Retired Military for Obama." "Grey" area Reservists are included, even though not yet 60. Thank you for helping to grow the Group.

Kenneth J. Murray

Lt. Col. USAF Reserve Retired

Barack Morning Buzz - 7-28-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 08:54:06 EDT

Barack Morning Buzz - 7-28-08
On to Victory in November

(1) Obama's Lead over McCain Grows-49% to 40%
Frank Newport-Gallup Poll-Daily Tracking
http://news.aol.com/elections/article/obama-leads-mccain-by-9-points-in-poll/102541

(2) Obama Says U.S. Must Reassert World Leadership
Joseph Williams-Boston Globe
http://www.boston.com/news/politics/2008/articles/2008/07/28/obama_says_us_must_reassert_world_leadership/

(3) How Obama's Foreign Tour Plays at Home
Linda Feldmann-Christian Science Monitor
http://news.yahoo.com/s/csm/20080728/ts_csm/aobamaback_1

(4) Obama Returns to Economy as McCain Assails Foreign Tour
Michael Powell and Susan Saulny-New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/28/us/politics/28campaign.html

(5) Obama Wants to Talk Economy-McCain Stays on Attack
Associated Press
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/07/28/america/NA-POL-US-Elections.php

(6) "Everything's OK" After Obama Visits Hospital
Allison O'Keefe-CBS News-From The Road
http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2008/07/27/politics/fromtheroad/entry4298018.shtml

(7) Obama's West Bank Trip Raises Hope and Skepticism
Associated Press
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/07/28/ap/middleeast/main4298476.shtml

(8) Florida Representative Debbie Wasserman Defends Obama on Israel and Iraq
Brian Goldsmith-CBS News-Political Players
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/07/25/politics/politicalplayers/main4296173.shtml

(9) Obama's Rise Epitomizes the Best of the American Dream
Albert Camarillo-San Jose Mercury News
http://www.mercurynews.com/opinion/ci_10019699

(10) Obama's Olympian Advertising Effort
Steve McClellan-AdWeek
http://www.adweek.com/aw/content_display/news/media/e3i023cb54210a5a93aa7f324adfc1b2518

(11) Clinton's Donors Backing Obama
Ronald J. Hansen-Arizona Republic
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2008/07/28/20080728prezmoney0726.html

(12) McCain Takes Aim at Obama's Character
Ben Smith and Jonathan Martin-Politico
http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/20080728/pl_politico/12092_2

(13) McCain Aide Takes Swipe at Obama and Germans over Berlin Visit
Deutsche Welle
http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,2144,3517517,00.html

(14) Obama and McCain Wrangle over Affirmative Action
McClatchy-Tribune
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/politics/5910581.html

(15) British Prime Minister Gordon Brown Hoping for Obama Magic
Lisa Holland-Sky News
http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/Barack-Obama-London-Visit-US-Presidential-Nominee-And-PM-Gordon-Brown-Begin-Their-Holidays/Article/200807415057244?lpos=Home_4&lid=ARTICLE_15057244_Barack%2BObama%2BLondon%2BVisit%253A%2BUS%2BPresidential%2BNominee%2BAnd%2BPM%2BGordon%2BBrown%2BBegin%2BTheir%2BHolidays

(16) Change Obama Can't Believe In-He's on a Ticket with Larry Craig
Andrew Malcolm-Los Angeles Times-Top of the Ticket
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2008/07/obama-craig-sca.html

This Campaign

Chris Hightower — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:28:34 EDT

As I have been calling Democrats in Midland I have had contact with some who are not going to support Senator Obama anymore for one reason or another. I got so frustrated and it really tested my resolve to continue organizing, because I felt that I was just spinning my wheels.After some soul searching I got back on the phones and made some headway. I felt better but I really got fired up about this campaign and I came to some realizations. 1) This Campaign - is about community (bickering will occur, but is it not bigger than this campaign)2) This Campaign - is about never giving up (even when the odds are stacked against you you move forward and work)3) This Campaign - has character (because it has tapped into a sense of values that project optimism) I understand more clearly why the message of this campaign can be summed up with one word. HOPE! To all that are working hard keep on working. To those who are feeling like they are spinning their wheels make three more calls, go to three more houses, never give up, and don't let anyone tell you that what you are doing doesn't make a difference. Get inspired and help this campaign make history!

Support our Troops -- Join Veterans for Obama

Vicki "Hussein" in New Mexico — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 10:39:11 EDT

In these days of the All Volunteer Army, I fear too many Americans are oblivious to the sacrifices of our servicemen and women on our behalf. I am pleased to see several new groups and the growth of existing groups dedicated to Veterans, active duty soldiers and their families supporting Barack Obama for President: http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/vetshome

Friends and families of our soldiers can help them make sure their vote will be counted in the upcoming Presidential Election for their Commander-in-Chief. Let them know about the Military Voter Services Web site: https://military.overseasvotefoundation.org/overseas/home.htm

Also, here in New Mexico, we would like to identify Veterans and active-duty military and their families who are supporting Barack Obama and would like to know about future veteran-related events in the next few months. For more information or to get on a contact list, please send your name, mailing address, home/cell phone, rank, branch and dates of service and email address to Jim_Buhaug@msn.com.

Here is a powerful new video "How You Ended the War" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frR0qklU1_o. Watch it, then make a donation to Barack Obama's campaign. We cannot wait any longer to bring good judgement and sanity back to the White House.

John McCain Comes to the Hotel Albuquerque

Tom Udall — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:37:19 EDT

I just returned from the Democratic Party's protest near the Hotel Albuquerque where John McCain was speaking this afternoon and let me say, it was a great success!

The pep rally was hosted by Brian Colón, and included speakers from NM-01 Congressional Candidate Martin Heinrich to former Secretary of State Rebecca Vigil-Giron to State Senate candidate Victor Raigoza.

State Senate Candidate Victor Raigoza

The theme was clear: John McCain and the national GOP want more of the same, more of Bush's failed policies, and an endless war in Iraq with no clear exit strategy. Protesters were clearly angry about the Bush-McCain energy policy and the lack of a plan to bring down gas prices as well.

There were a steady stream of cars honking in support of the dozens of protesters carrying anti-McCain signs. Many protesters were wearing Heinrich, Obama, and yes, of course, Tom Udall stickers and t-shirts.

More Pictures on our FlickR.

Bryan Barash
Internet Communications Manager
Tom Udall for Senate

This is too important to go unanswered; WE have to take responsibility--

Connie from Memphis, TN — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 17:27:29 EDT

Tell "THE TRUTH ABOUT TAXES"...McCain scaring working families--

EVERYDAY, in every city he speaks, McCain not only claims that Obama will raise everyone's taxes, he says Obama's tax proposal would raise rates on those who make as little as $32,000 a year. In a year where the economy is the number one issue to most undecided voters, we cannot afford ANY VOTER not to know the truth--

"If you are a family making $250,000 or less, I will not raise your taxes," Obama said. "Not your income tax. Not your payroll tax, not your capital gains tax. Not any tax. I will cut your taxes."

This is too important to go unanswered, I took an informal poll in my neighborhood, and even most of Obama supporters were unsure what his tax policy was...undecided voters thought just what they hear on the street or on Fox news.It's time we take responsibility for at least our neighbors, our friends and coworkers to know the truth about taxes.

And it's so simple to do...please take a moment to look at this "THE TRUTH ABOUT TAXES" factsheet. and in your spare time print some copies for your neighborhood, at the very least.

You can print it from this direct link--http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v254/giveupdefunk/std.jpg

This is too important to go unanswered,

"THE TRUTH ABOUT TAXES"

Connie from Memphis, TN — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 17:12:56 EDT

New Mexico Organizing Fellows Spotlight: Daniel in Las Cruces

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

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

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

Daniel decided to support Barack because:

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

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

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

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

Daniel describes his job as a Fellow:

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

Daniel says:

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

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

ONE HUNDRED!!!

Bradford "Hussein" Lyau — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 09:58:13 EDT

I now have friends on this site from 100 different countries!

Since I decided to participate actively in this website and keep track of how many countries in which I have Obama friends, it has taken me fourteen months to achieve this level of success.

For the record, here are the 100 countries, listed in chronological order of my befriending people from each country:

Netherlands, Iceland, France, Britain, Spain, Czech Republic, Cayman Islands, Uganda, Indonesia, Australia, Cyprus, Germany, Japan, Sweden, Denmark, Italy, China, Mexico, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Philippines, Jamaica, Pakistan, India, United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, Gambia, Portugal, South Korea, Ivory Coast, Bahamas, Belgium, Puerto Rico, Haiti, Morocco, Serbia, Ghana, Singapore, Thailand, Bulgaria, Brazil, Greece, Israel, Norway, Kenya, Trinidad and Tobago, Iran, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Dominican Republic, Peru, Guatemala, Malaysia, Cambodia, Tanzania, Hungary, Venezuela, Poland, Egypt, Tunisia, Maldives, Senegal, Chile, Cameroon, Bolivia, El Salvador, Columbia, Liberia, Lebanon, Sri Lanka, Belarus, Russia, Panama, Bosnia, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Ukraine, Ethiopia, Bermuda, Croatia, Jordan, Botswana, Nepal, Nicaragua, Finland, Bangladesh, Slovenia, Zimbabwe, Togo, Barbados, Taiwan, Saint Lucia, Mauritius, Kazakhstan, Georgia, and Mali

By now I have multiple friends in most of these countries.

Of course Election Day is still a few months away and there is still time to reach people from countries not on my list.

Perhaps the most satisfying result is that I managed to get a university student from Denmark to come to New Mexico and volunteer on the campaign for the summer! His name is Caspar and his work on the campaign is part of his research for his studies. The Internet does work in politics, especially when the cause is right.

Here's to Senator Barack Obama, the world's choice for President of the United States!

New Mexico Opportunity Knocks

Herschel.Corpus.Christi — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 11:05:21 EDT

I'm writing from Texas. This spring was the first time in years when the vote of a Democrat mattered. The Obama campaign came to Corpus Christi. I became involved with the Texas primary. Volunteers were hosted; furniture was donated; phone calls were made; much volunteer work was done. It was a wonderful event.

My theme for this message is if possible you owe it to YOURSELF to help. There is no other way to say it, "The Obama campaign will bring you more than you give." As a host family, expect a positive force to enter your home. "Awesome" is the world of the day. "YES WE CAN" is the attitude.

The day is filled with excitement, change, hope. We all want to feel like we are making a difference in our world. ACTIVE PARTICIPATION in the Obama Campaign gives one that feeling.

New Mexico will be EXTREMELY important in the General Election. EACH and EVERY contribution you make can affect the outcome of this election. You and YOUR actions matter.

The opportunity to bring CHANGE to NEW MEXICO sets the stage for CHANGE in AMERICA. What will you do with this opportunity is the question????

Gary Trauner on FISA by MCJOAN

Isabel S — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 05:17:23 EDT

Posted by mcjoan

Proving again why he deserves to take Dick Cheney's old Congressional seat away from the Republicans, Orange to Blue candidate Gary Trauner blogs about yesterday's vote at his campaign Web site. I'm excerpting, which is hard to do because it really should be read in its entirety:

Is that what it’s come to? Our federal government says you must do something, even if it is against the law, and we "need" to do it? Well, I don’t care whether it’s the Republican Leadership in Washington or the Democrats in the House, I’ll proudly tell them – and you - where I stand on warrantless wiretapping, the rule of law and protecting our national security:

I want to ensure that my children, and all of our children, are safe from terrorist attacks by beefing up our intelligence capabilities, protecting vulnerable targets, proactively taking out terrorists such as Al-Qaeda in their hideouts in Afghanistan, Pakistan and around the world, and working to remove safe havens for terrorists by winning the battle of ideas, not simply the battle for Tikrit.
I believe in the Constitution and rule of law, the two things that define our great American experiment. We must not gut our freedoms in order to save our freedoms. If we do that, those who use terror as a tactic will achieve their goal – after all, what would we be fighting to protect?.
We can protect our nation without sacrificing everything our founding fathers and millions of veterans fought for; the FISA law, already updated in 2001 after 9/11 and recently patched to fix some omissions due to changing technology, works.
I would rather bring Osama Bin Laden to justice than help large corporations avoid justice.
If we value our Constitutional rights such as the 2nd amendment right to bear arms, we better think twice about ignoring other Constitutional rights, such as the 4th Amendment right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure without a warrant and probable cause. Because once we cherry pick the Constitution, someone will eventually come after the rights we hold most dear.

....

Finally, the truth is that Congress last year passed a temporary extension of the Protect America Act that was vetoed by the President and voted against by the Republican leadership and certain Democrats. They said they would not accept a bill that does not include giving a free pass to companies that might have broken the law! Incredible. It deserve saying one more time – these so-called leaders are telling us the Protect America Act was so important, without it America is not protected from terrorists; however, they were willing to block this incredibly important Act, and leave America unprotected, unless large corporations were let off the hook for knowingly breaking the law. Because unlike you and me, who in the event of potential wrongdoing only get off the hook by presenting our case in a court of law, they think large corporations should be held to a different standard – no accountability.

Why Do We Care About FISA?

Isabel S — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 05:13:55 EDT

Why Do We Care About FISA? by Hunter Sat Jun 21, 2008 at 06:45:10 PM PDT

So, why have activists spent so much effort opposing retroactive corporate immunity as part of new FISA legislation, when there are so many other things in the world to be outraged about? Why do so many people care so much about a mere technical issue such as whether such-and-such is legal or illegal?

I can count three reasons.

It goes to the heart of illegal actions by this administration. The Bush administration has broken law after law, and been enmeshed in scandal after scandal, and been met with no substantive actions. There are investigations that never end; there are stern letters that are never answered; there are subpoenas that are simply ignored. So to respond to a clearly illegal act by, of all possible things, writing legislation that offers retroactive immunity for those acts, maintains the secrecy of those acts, and declares that the Bush administration itself will be responsible for the future integrity of those acts -- it is patently asinine. It is an insult. It demonstrates a complete lack of regard for the law, and for the very responsibilities of each branch of government. In this, it is symbolic of the entire current Congress, which has proved itself all but nonfunctional when it comes to checking abuses by the executive branch -- or even by their own branch.

It is a Constitutional question, and of a sort that the administration has fought long and hard to cripple. Among the more basic premises of the Bill of Rights is the notion of probable cause; your government may not conduct searches or seizures without a warrant, and the judicial branch shall judge the merit of those warrants. But the Bush administration wishes simply nullify that entire concept, if those searches are electronic in nature. It takes no imagination at all to observe that once one type of widespread, warrantless, causeless electronic search is deemed to be outside of 4th Amendment protections, an entire series of other electronic searches will follow. That is, after all, the entire reason the Bush administration pursued these searches illegally, rather than attempting to change FISA law in advance; they have every intention of creating a precedent for future searches, and they now have been given exactly that.

It was easy. I mean, Jesus H. Christmas, it has been the easiest thing in the world -- all they had to do was not do it. It's not freakin' rocket science -- but thanks to the efforts of a number of Democrats, not just Rockefeller and Hoyer but people like Reid and Pelosi, they just couldn't not put immunity in. We were never told why it was so all-fired important -- they would never grace us with any non-childish, non-condescending, non-flagrantly-insulting explanation. But instead of just not passing bills granting immunity, we had Reid treating Dodd more shabbily than he ever treated any Republican, and Hoyer apparently going around Pelosi, and all manner of prodding and dealing by Democrats to get immunity for these acts. It is baffling, and the only rationale available seems to be the most cynical one -- it is merely doing the bidding of companies that provide substantive campaign contributions. No other explanation would seem to suffice.

So those are the reasons. Because of all the issues we've faced, in the last few years, this one was an absolute no-brainer, the one thing that the Democrats, no matter how stunningly incompetent, humiliatingly ineffective or bafflingly capitulating they may be, could manage to win simply by sitting on their damn hands. But no; it took serious work to lose on this one. Serious, burning-the-midnight-oil work to manage to quite so cravenly negate their own oversight duties.

And that is why this will not be forgotten anytime soon. A caucus willing to go to these lengths to satisfy the illegalities of the Bush administration is not one that can easily be defended. It is understandable that it would take a great deal of courage to enforce Congressional subpoenas. We can understand that voting against funding for the war could be risky, if we were to presume that Bush would simply keep the troops in the Iraqi desert to rot regardless of funding.

But this one? This petty, stinking issue of granting retroactive immunity to companies that violated the law, such that they need not even say how they violated the law, or when they violated the law, or how often, or against who, and the whole thing started before 9/11 so it is clear that terrorism wasn't even a prime factor for doing it -- that whole mess is now absolved, no lawsuits, no discovery, no evidence allowed to be presented?

No, that one is indefensible. It is indefensible because it requires not just passive acceptance of a corrupt administration performing illegal acts, but legislators actively condoning those acts with the stroke of a pen. The Democrats are determined to set themselves as partners in committing crimes, then absolving them; there should be nothing but contempt for such acts

Good Idea- I Need a Drink

Isabel S — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 04:50:50 EDT

Cognac and Coke, a Margarita, a Tequila, maybe some Merlot. I remember I use to have a sense of humor.

Recommend ACLU website http://www.aclu.org/

and ActBlue. http://www.actblue.com/

Posted by Amanda Simon

FISA Debate: Not So Much a Debate as a Death March for the Fourth Amendment

Depressing, I know, but it’s the truth. Get ready to lose all faith in government. Maybe an overstatement. Maybe not. To get our official line on this bill, read our letter to the House.

Watching the debate on the floor has given a few memorable moments. Some infuriating, some hysterical, some make me want to kiss Barbara Lee. Here’s a wrap up of my favorite and least favorite moments.

Lame Duck Heather Wilson (R-NM) did her usual spiel and claimed that, after the New York Times revealed the NSA program, Congress conducted "extensive oversight." All due respect, Ms. Wilson, but it really didn’t.
A few notes for Darrell "Viper On!" Issa:
1. You are wrong. "Both sides" have NOT been working on this. The White House and those seeking to appease it have been working on it. Everyone else has been shut out.
2. A "no" vote is a "play to special interests"? How interesting you bring up special interests… *cough*telecomlobby*cough*. "Hello pot" "Oh, hey, kettle"
Barbara Lee perhaps said the best thing I’ve heard throughout this debate: "This bill scares me to death and I urge a no vote!" Amen, Barbara. Amen.
Pelosi made her Oscar acceptance speech, handing out thank yous and faux-compromise spin. (P.S. if the Protect America Act was so "unacceptable" why did you schedule it for a vote?) Someone should send her today’s San Francisco Chronicle editorial, no? She’s not asking anyone to vote for this bill? Strong leadership.

By the way, President Bush made a few comments on the bill today saying that it "ensures" telecoms will be shielded from courts. Neat. I love that he and Congressman Blunt and Senator Bond aren’t even attempting to pretend this is a compromise. I guess that’s the Democrats’ job?

Hoyer’s making his Oscar acceptance speech now. He’d like to thank the Academy, the telecom lobbyists, and the White House. As he says, in the legislative process "no one gets everything they want." Especially the Constitution, Steny.

Vote will be coming up shortly. Start drinking now.

BREAKING:
Oh god. It’s over. 293 – 129. Continue drinking until next week’s Senate vote…

Government Spying

Obama is 15 Points Ahead!

Isabel S — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 01:18:31 EDT

Obama is 15 points ahead! I wish I could feel happy but my heart's in my stomach. You see I was fanatically immersed in HOPE and ChANGE. I'm going through the stages of mourning.

I'm trying to understand so bear with me as I try to rationalize.

1.The Bush and his possy are criminals. The Telecoms are criminals. Some Democrats such as Pelosi knew they were breaking the law. So some of these Democrats were complicit, guilty and they are cya. In order to cover their a--, they protect Bush and Co. and the Telecom lobbyists.

2. Obama has to look tought on terrorist so the swing states will vote for him.

3. Knowing that he will be the president, he wants FISA because it will grant him immense executive powers. What a great gift from Congress and the Bush!

I have two concerns.

1. Obama will be president. He'll have extreme powers bestowed by FISA courtesy of the Congress. Who is to say, the Repubs will not use it against him and try to impeach him for abuse. Ask Bill Clinton.

2. Barack Obama says,

Given the grave threats that we face ( This is the first time he mentions threats, ie FEAR)

President cannot circumvent the law and disregard the civil liberties of the American people. (As much as I love him he WILL have all the power.)

I will work in the Senate to remove this provision so that we can seek full accountability for past offenses. But this compromise guarantees a thorough review by the Inspectors General of our national security agencies to determine what took place in the past, and ensures that there will be accountability going forward. By demanding oversight and accountability, a grassroots movement of Americans has helped yield a bill that is far better than the Protect America Act.

It fails to protect the privacy of law-abiding Americans at home. It is NOT the 4th Amendment. Just because he says" he will work" doesn't mean he will not take advantage. Just because he says he will "demand" doesn't mean someone will not break the law or the thugs will get away with it. Remember he said he wasn't perfect. Should we blindly support Obama in everything he does and refrain from criticizing him? It is dangerous. Remember when the Bush was at 90% approval?

Glen Greenwald warns,"No political leader merits uncritical devotion -- neither when they are running for office nor when they occupy it -- and there are few things more dangerous than announcing that you so deeply believe in the Core Goodness of a political leader, or that we face such extreme political crises that you trust and support whatever your Leader does, even when you don't understand it or think that it's wrong. That's precisely the warped authoritarian mindset that defined the Bush Movement and led to the insanity of the post-9/11 Era, and that uncritical reverence is no more attractive or healthy when it's shifted to a new Leader. "

I'm hoping Obama, who is a constitutional lawyer, who worked to protect civil rights, will vote no or filibuster like he promised. Or this will be the ironies of the ironies - a constitutional lawyer tramples on the 4th Ammendment.

" Those willing to forfeit liberty for security, will have neither." Benjamin Franklin

How Does He Know Us?

Trey Evan — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:00:26 EDT

Every four years, we as American citizens elect the President of the United States, the most powerful head of state on Earth. The responsibilities, perks, pitfalls, and sacrifices for this office most high is sought after every four years by dozens of men, and now a handful of women, attempting to somehow make history and protect, or push, the agendas of millions of people, known and unknown to them. When viewed through that lens, Election 2008 is no different than years past. There are two men running for the Presidency, a Democratic candidate and a Republican candidate. They have both campaigned vigorously throughout the primary season, trying greatly to convince voters and party members that they are the most capable. They have successfully defeated opponents within their party and are working tirelessly to triumph over their counterparts across the political isle. They will see every nook and cranny of this kaleidoscopic and blessed nation, meeting millions of people along the way, speaking innumerable words of patriotism and change and what they will do differently to allow each interest valued by different people provide reform.

If we take a look at Election 2008 from another lens, the lens of a changing attitude, we will see a very different election year than those past. While indeed, there are two male Democratic and Republican candidates, there is an African American candidate on the Democratic ticket, an accomplishment that has ushered in a new era for the United States. This African American, Sen. Barack Obama, has defeated a woman, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, for the nomination of the Democratic Party and mobilized voters in a way no candidate has in years past. He faces a seasoned but flawed Republican candidate, Sen. John McCain in the general election. So, this mundane process of electing the President every four years has suddenly become the most important electoral event of this century, if nothing else to begin the healing of a disastrous eight years of failed policy and bring the American citizen back into the Republic millions have shed blood for. The old saying, “now is the time”, best represents what must be done. Now, each of us must make our own informed decision on who we feel is best.

Through much deliberation and a wrenching primary, I fully support Sen. Barack Obama for President. As an active Democrat in my community, I will do what I can to help him get elected at the grassroots level. For me, Sen. Obama has answered a question many of us ask when we seek a representative: “How does he know me?” It is a question rooted in what I know is best for me to give me the best life I can possibly lead and what stake he will take in that. My past, my present, and my future all depend upon ethical, public-serving representatives who effectively represent me when shaping public policy. Barack has answered that question for me through tough questions I have asked myself regarding his proposed policies and answered by browsing his website and his outline for his plans should he be elected, Obama’s Blueprint for Change. Just days after his attainment of the Democratic Party’s nomination, an article on Politico.com reported that Sen. Obama announced that the Democratic National Committee will not accept contributions from lobbyists and PACs for this election year. This makes Sen. Obama’s campaign slogan, “Change America Can Believe In”, something I can believe in. Winning elections today depends on hundreds of millions of dollars and oftentimes, corporations with special interest groups dominate campaigns with their deep pockets, shutting out the interests of real Americans for those with the most money invested. This was a crucial first step in Sen. Obama’s commitment to revolutionize the Washington of today and bridge the disconnect between the representatives and the constituencies they represent. Still, Sen. Obama is a human being as well as a politician, and often the media and the public hold public servants to an impossible double standard, forcing them to make impossible choices involving every aspect of their lives and careers because of an intolerance for real human qualities. These are the attitudes that spur corruption and ineffective legislation.

Recently, the Obama campaign announced that Barack would be visiting my community on Memorial Day. Due to my activities within the Party locally, I was lucky enough to be informed of an opportunity to attend the event and help with the organization of it as an intern. After a run-through and meeting representatives from the Obama campaign, I was disillusioned by the way they treated me and my colleagues. They were pretentious, verging on rude, and eventually terminated our involvement with the event because of the “private nature” surrounding the occasion. As an intern, this was confusing and embittered me to the nature of politics and campaigns. I felt public servants, including Barack Obama, get lost in the original missions of their campaigns because of partisan politics and the differences that can irritate them from region to region. Surely, this was not their original intent though. This unfortunate encounter with the campaign did not divert me from continuing to organize grassroots work. It simply reminded me of the impossible double standards I impose on my elected officials and how I can help change this by being directly involved in public affairs to help change old attitudes that have been the downfall of the Bush Administration. Admittedly, during a majority of the primary season I was a Hillary supporter, but Sen. Obama is the Democratic nominee and because the policies of Progressive Democrats like Obama and Hillary consider the middle class, support effective policies in reference to the future of American energy independence, and have a history in sound economic policies as well as protecting our national interests in a respectful, fully diplomatic manner, I now support Barack Obama because he has answered the question, “How does he know me?”

Now, I encourage each of you to ask this same question for your choice for President. If this question is answered adequately for you about a candidate, then you will be fully comfortable on Election Day and in the next four years should your candidate become elected, you can rest easy knowing that you did your best as a voter. I would like each of you to disengage the media to some degree in making your decision in November of 2008 and consider real, challenging issues affecting citizens like you all across the United States. Though politics is not for everyone, minimal inferences, such as checking candidate positions on the issues online and attending a party event or two in your community can be a great way to answer the question, “How do they know me?” Also, by answering this question, you can realize that though your candidate of choice has high goals and every intent to fulfill the promises of his campaign, he is a human being, capable of taking missteps, and is limited to a degree in his ability to control the ebb and flow of legislation. That way, when the media decides to stir a scandal regarding pointless associations such as pastors and acquaintances or attempts to make certain statements into a political lynching, there will be no smearing of innocent people or ruining lives, including yours, for political capital.

I realize that what I propose for you to do is different, even daunting. I am, after all, asking you to explore yourself in a way that might be uncomfortable by asking some pointed questions. But this is the same idea my candidate of choice is asking as well and if we can each do our part to think about it, whether it means support for John McCain or Barack Obama after answering those questions, Election 2008 will immeasurably be like no election year in history. When the books of tomorrow are written about Election 2008, the election of today, you can help make it historical and most importantly, successful in more ways than one. The question, “How does he know me?” will provide a different answer for many of us, but I feel that properly examined, Sen. Obama will be the candidate of choice and initiate a new era of prosperity for all Americans. I believe in that change and I hope, even if it is just a glimmer of belief, America will believe too. We all might know each other better than we even imagined.

WE'RE OFFICIAL!

Bradford "Hussein" Lyau — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 02:34:41 EDT

Now that Barack Obama is the presumptive presidential nominee for the Democratic Party, our scope of opportunity for support has just magnified.

We can now coordinate our resources with other Democratic campaigns. We can now present a united front against the Republicans. Every state party, including New Mexico's, can now form a united, coordinated campaign that can marshal all of its resources in a most effective manner

Of course there still exist limits for individual campaigns and their activities, but the state party coordinated campaigns provide a central organizing bureau through which various campaigns can combine their resources and activities.

The Obama campaign maintains its autonomy while now having direct access to more resources previously unavailable when the primary season was still going on.

What does this mean to us, Obama's grassroots volunteers? We will be able to meet and work with a wider circle of Democratic supporters! We will not be so lonely any more. Our political family just got bigger.

Meanwhile, this does not mean our focus has changed. We as grassroots organizers still have to concentrate on the following three steps to a November victory:

1) Register as many Democrats as possible. This is especially crucial in a battle ground state such as New Mexico.

2) Identify those people as Obama supporters.

3) Get them out to vote on Election Day, November 4, 2008.

We stick to this plan and we win. We are now at the voter registration phase of the campaign. The more Democrats and other supporters we register, the better our chances in the Fall. As I mentioned in an earlier blog, our grassroots organization is our "secret weapon."

So see you all on the campaign trail!

Brad

Bradford Lyau

Chair, Grassroots Obama - New Mexico (GO-NM)

"Change we can believe in blog"

mark — Tue, 20 May 2008 14:23:30 EDT

Are you ready for change? I'm fired up and tired of gwb and his cowboy diplomacies.

Barack Evening Buzz - 5-7-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Wed, 07 May 2008 23:15:38 EDT

Barack Evening Buzz-5-7-08
On to Victory in November

(1) Support for Clinton Wanes as Obama Sees Finish Line
Patrick Healy and Jeff Zeleny-New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/08/us/politics/08campaign.html?ref=politics

(2) Obama Picks Up Super Delegate Support
Associated Press
http://news.aol.com/elections/story/_a/obama-picks-up-superdelegate-support/20080507153209990001

(3) Party Elder George McGovern Tells Clinton It is Time to Unite Around Obama
Ewen MacAskill and Suzanne Goldenberg-Guardian-UK
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/may/08/hillaryclinton.barackobama

(4) Clinton's Path to Victory Slipping Away
Vaughn Ververs and Brian Montpoli-CBS News
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/05/07/politics/main4078586.shtml

(5) Obama Gains New Argument for His Cause
Jeff Zeleny-New York Times
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/05/07/america/primary.php

(6) With Split Decision, Obama Moves a Step Closer to Victory
Adam Nagourney-New York Times
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/05/07/america/dems.php

(7) Super Delegates Await Clinton's Next Move Including California Senator and Supporter Diane Feinstein
Ted Barrett, Deidre Walsh and Ed Homick-CNN
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/05/07/superdelegates.respond/?iref=mpstoryview

(8) Democrats Quietly Send Word to Clinton It's Over
David Espo-Associated Press
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/politics/5762443.html

(9) Clinton's Faltering Case for Staying In
Amy Sullivan-TIME
http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1738215,00.html

(10) Clinton's Stock Falls to New Low
Alan Boyle-MSNBC-Comic Log
http://cosmiclog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/05/07/992229.aspx

Democratic Party of New Mexico New Website is Up -- Get Involved!

Vicki "Hussein" in New Mexico — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:04:56 EDT

The DPNM has launched a new website http://www.nmdemocrats.net/. I am happy to see a more up-to-date and user-friendly web page for our Democratic Party here in New Mexico (now if we can hold an election without major snafus and with results timely reported, we will have finally reached the 21st Century).

The Delegates attending the Democratic National Convention August 25-28 in Denver, CO are listed here: http://www.nmdemocrats.net/inner.asp?z=6. It's only a 7 hour drive from the Albuquerque area, so if you want to go up the weekend before and attend some Barack Obama parties or other convention events, contact your Obama Delegates.

So much of the Obama campaign is about getting the grassroots voters involved to take back our government. Helping out the Democratic Party by volunteering, running for a committee position, or donating money to the Party and candidates are a key way to get involved in making our government more responsive to the people.

Obama Stickers and Buttons Available at Democratic Party Office

Vicki "Hussein" in New Mexico — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:56:35 EDT

I left Obama stickers and buttons at the New Mexico Democratic Party Headquarters (1301 San Pedro in Albuquerque). They consist of "Veterans for Obama" buttons and "Obama '08" buttons and "Latinos for Obama" Lapel Stickers. Should get Obama '08 bumper stickers soon (on back-order!). These are free and available to Obama supporters on a "first come, first serve" basis.

You, too, are invited to buy Obama support items in-bulk from the Obama store on-line http://store.barackobama.com/ and donate them to the NM Dem headquarters so New Mexicans can pick them up to show their support for Senator Obama on his road to the White House. Your purchases from the Obama Store are counted as cash contributions to the Obama for America presidential campaign.

If the NCAA Tournament were being run by Hillary's campaign team...

Don Hussein Obama — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 23:15:45 EDT

... here's what the brackets would look like.

Seriously, folks, this is one of the best pieces of satire I've seen in a long time.

It's a reader's contribution to Talking Points Memo:
"This Just In: NCAA Declares Winners of First Round Games that Were Essentially Tied"

Here's a sample, a la Michigan and Florida:

Marquette 74, Kentucky 66
Based upon a recalculation of the score that included shots sunk by the teams during the pre-game warm-up, the officials have determined that the Wildcats were, in fact, the winners of this game. The officials have given due consideration to Marquette's contention that NCAA rules provide that the only shots that count are those made during the game, and that both sides had agreed to abide by these rules, but, in light of changed circumstances, the NCAA has decided to ignore them.

1 month to the next primary...

Rev Bry — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 23:21:21 EDT

How are you preparing??

Week in Review -- Hillary's Inflated Experience: A Primer

Don Hussein Obama — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 06:23:45 EDT

On Day One (in his inaugural address), JFK said: "Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans..." For those who do not yet understand why today's new generation of Americans supports Obama over Hillary, this week was very instructive.

Since Hillary says she's "ready to be President on Day One", let's check the record, shall we?

"Found my own voice"... but not until the New Hampshire primary. Hmmm, pretty interesting timing, for someone with "35 years of experience". Does that mean that until New Hampshire, she was simply the mouthpiece for all those advisers and strategists, willing to say and do whatever they told her would get her elected? Of course it does.

"Just getting warmed up"... that's on March 3, after all the January and February contests... Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Super Tuesday, etc. etc. The day before she lost Texas. With that timing, she'd get the 3 AM call, let it go to voice mail, hit the snooze button repeatedly when the alarm went off at 9 AM, and check her messages around noon.

Hillary is in desperation mode. Her theme of inevitability was shattered, the backup theme of change was preempted by Obama, and the backup backup theme of experience is being employed. But the harsh, unforgiving spotlight of real scrutiny and honest questions reveals that theme doesn't hold any water either:

1) Peace in Northern Ireland? Not Hillary's doing.

London Daily Telegraph Link

And then, caught with her hands in the cookie jar, Hillary upped the stakes, sending out Terry McAuliffe to say "We would not have peace today had it not for Hillary's hard work in Northern Ireland." The mainstream media was apparently too slack-jawed in amazement at the brazen lie to bother refuting it. Only problem is, no one on the other side of the pond is buying it.

London Daily Telegraph Follow-up

2) Health care for kids? Just because Hillary likes the idea, doesn't mean she created it.

Boston Globe Link

3) Making the difference for refugees from war in Kosovo? Hey, no problem, she'll get right on that... just a day late (if not a dollar short)

FactCheck.org Link

4) And the one I find most offensive, as a 23-year member of the military: risking her life on that crucial, difference-making trip to Bosnia. Dodging snipers with Chelsea and the USO tour...

Newsweek references FactCheck

If Hillary gets credit for that trip, Sinbad must be qualified as VP. And Chelsea passes the threshold for Secretary of Defense.

Sinbad: Not So Fast, Hillary... I Was There Too

Hillary's bunk, debunked by sources with facts and witnesses. There you have it, friends: The Week in Review.

When the People Who Get Paid to Write Earn Their Keep

Don Hussein Obama — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 23:58:54 EDT

Every now and then, a blog or email or online article will capture some of the chatter in a way that really resonates... and that's why the writers get paid to write.

Here's one from today's Huffington Post... with a few excerpts included here in case you don't want to make the jump.

James Moore

Color-Coded Hillary Alerts

(http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jim-moore/colorcoded-hillary-alert_b_91035.html)