MS HQ Blog

The Next Step: Attend a Change is Coming House Meeting Dec. 13-14

Christopher Hass — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:03:11 EST

Today David Plouffe sent out the following message to supporters, inviting them to attend one the many grassroots house meetings taking place throughout the country later this month:

Exactly one month ago, you made history by giving all Americans a real opportunity for change.

Now it's time to start preparing and working for change in our communities.

On December 13th and 14th, supporters are coming together in every part of the country to reflect on what we've accomplished and plan the future of this movement. Your ideas and feedback will be collected and used to guide this movement in the months and years ahead.

Join your friends and neighbors -- sign up to host or attend a Change is Coming house meeting near you.

Since the election, the challenges we face -- and our responsibility to take action -- have only gotten more urgent.

You can connect with fellow supporters, make progress on the issues you care about, and help shape the future of your community and our country.

Learn what you can do now to support President-elect Obama's agenda for change and continue to make a difference in your community.

Take the first important step by hosting or attending a Change is Coming house meeting. Sign up right now.

To get our country back on track, it will take all of us working together.

Barack and Joe have a clear agenda and an unprecedented opportunity for change. But they can't do it alone.

Will you join us at a house meeting and help plan the next steps for this movement?

Thanks,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Thank You, Mississippi

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:50:59 EST

Video: Election Night Speech in Grant Park

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:00:36 EST

"I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to – it belongs to you." - Barack Obama, Election Night 2008

Read the full speech, as prepared for delivery . . .

GOTV Calling Update

Christopher Hass — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:24:15 EST

Right now, while volunteers work to Get Out The Vote in key states, thousands of grassroots supporters across the country are helping out from home by using our online voter contact tools to call voters.

Our target today is to make 1,000,000 calls to voters in battleground states before the close of polls tonight. As of 1:00 PM Eastern, we've made 214,187 calls. However, our staff on the ground are telling us that we need to reach the 500,000 call mark by 3:00 PM Eastern Time.

These calls provide our supporters with information about when, where and how to vote today, and by helping identify which voters have already cast a ballot, we can dramatically reduce the number of houses our volunteers on the ground need to reach before polls close.

If you have even thirty minutes to spare in the next three hours, when can use your help. Simply select the state you want to call from the map below, and we'll provide you with an easy to use script and a targeted list of voters to call.

The largest voter contact operation ever attempted is underway right now. This is your chance to be part of it.

Mississippi: Polls Open 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Kevin Flynn — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 07:03:49 EST

In Mississippi, polls are open today from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM. Anyone who is in line by 7:00 PM will be allowed to vote. You can find your polling location now.

For additional information or for any issues you may have with voting visit our Voter Information Center or call 1-877-US-4-OBAMA (877-874-6226). Answers to some of the most common voting questions are below:

Do I need to bring ID with me when I go vote?

If you do not provide proper identification when you register to vote, you may be required to show one of the following documents to the election officials at the polling place on Election Day:

a copy of current valid photo identification
a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and address

What time will the polls be open on November 4?

7:00 am–7:00 pm

What about voters with disabilities?

If you are permanently disabled, you can register to be on the disabled voter list and will automatically be sent a ballot. To register as a disabled voter, you must get a signed statement from your physician stating you are permanently disabled.

The new voting machines provide accessible voting for disabled person. If necessary, you can choose a person to assist you with your voting.

"I've learned that this election is about the heart of America"

Kevin Flynn — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 15:30:24 EST

Jonathan Curley is a banker. He voted for George H.W. Bush twice and George W. Bush once. Here's an excerpt from his story on canvassing for the Obama campaign in North Carolina, from the Christian Science Monitor:

There has been a lot of speculation that Barack Obama might win the election due to his better "ground game" and superior campaign organization.

I had the chance to view that organization up close this month when I canvassed for him. I'm not sure I learned much about his chances, but I learned a lot about myself and about this election.
Let me make it clear: I'm pretty conservative. I grew up in the suburbs. I voted for George H.W. Bush twice, and his son once. I was disappointed when Bill Clinton won, and disappointed he couldn't run again.
...So you can imagine my surprise when my wife suggested we spend a Saturday morning canvassing for Obama. I have never canvassed for any candidate. But I did, of course, what most middle-aged married men do: what I was told.
At the Obama headquarters, we stood in a group to receive our instructions. I wasn't the oldest, but close, and the youngest was maybe in high school. I watched a campaign organizer match up a young black man who looked to be college age with a white guy about my age to canvas together. It should not have been a big thing, but the beauty of the image did not escape me.

Instead of walking the tree-lined streets near our home, my wife and I were instructed to canvass a housing project. A middle-aged white couple with clipboards could not look more out of place in this predominantly black neighborhood.
We knocked on doors and voices from behind carefully locked doors shouted, "Who is it?"
"We're from the Obama campaign," we'd answer. And just like that doors opened and folks with wide smiles came out on the porch to talk.

Grandmothers kept one hand on their grandchildren and made sure they had all the information they needed for their son or daughter to vote for the first time.
...We knocked on every door we could find and checked off every name on our list. We did our job, but Obama may not have been the one who got the most out of the day's work.
I learned in just those three hours that this election is not about what we think of as the "big things."

... I've learned that this election is about the heart of America. It's about the young people who are losing hope and the old people who have been forgotten. It's about those who have worked all their lives and never fully realized the promise of America, but see that promise for their grandchildren in Barack Obama. The poor see a chance, when they often have few. I saw hope in the eyes and faces in those doorways.
My wife and I went out last weekend to knock on more doors. But this time, not because it was her idea. I don't know what it's going to do for the Obama campaign, but it's doing a lot for me.

It's not too late to volunteer. Click here to make a difference in the last few days.

Time to GOTV - Find a place to help make change

Kevin Flynn — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 13:39:25 EDT

We've reached the most important days of this entire campaign.

All of the voters we've registered, phone calls we've made, doors we've knocked on, friends and neighbors we spread the word to over the course of this campaign have brought us to where we are today: making Barack Obama very compettive in the race for the presidency of the United States.

Now we have to make sure all of that time and effort doesn't go to waste. It's time to once again take change into our own hands and get out the vote (GOTV).

As Barack explained in Nevada this morning:

Don’t believe for a second this election is over. Don’t think for a minute that power concedes. We have to work like our future depends on it in these last few days, because it does.

Join millions of Americans all over the country by volunteering in the last four days of this campaign. Everything we have worked for over the past 20 months will come down to what we do -- or don't do -- to help get out the vote.

Miss Laura from the DailyKos offered these words of wisdom from a veteran volunteer:

Before you hit your first door, or dial your first number...think about why you're doing it. Maybe it's your loved one in Iraq. Maybe it's wanting a Supreme Court that will preserve your right to control your own body. Maybe it's the healthcare you need and can't afford.
Take a piece of paper and a pen and write your reason down. Keep it in your pocket, and if you have a hard conversation or string of them, take that piece of paper out of your pocket and read it. Remind yourself that this is not an empty chore, it's a way to something really, really important. Carry that knowledge with you to each door or each dial.

So what can you do? Find a volunteer event near you and sign up to help between now and Election Day.

Mississippi Call Team continues Phone Challenge for GOTV

Kevin Flynn — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:08:57 EDT

In the final days of this historic campaign, the Mississippi Call Team has set a new goal of making 2,500 calls into battleground states between now and election day to help get out the vote (GOTV).

If you haven't started making calls yet, it's not too late. It only takes a minute to find a phonebanking event near you or to get started calling from home. You'll be provided with lists of targeted voters and a call script.

We only have a few days left to contact millions of voters. We've been gearing up for this moment for a long time, and now it's here. What we do in these next few days will make the difference.

Tonight: Last Call for Change

Amanda Scott — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:02:24 EDT

If you live in a non-battleground state you can play an important role in deciding this election in key battleground states. Especially tonight.

The campaign will be airing a 30-minute special tonight called Barack Obama: American Promises from 8-8:30pm EDT.

Tonight supporters are gathering at Last Call for Change phonebanks across the country, calling voters in swing states to tell them where their polling location is.

There are only 6 days left to bring the change we need.

Barack is counting on your incredibly important phone calls. You can make sure Obama supporters know where to vote on Tuesday. Their polling location may have changed, or they may have never voted before.

No experience is required. You'll have a script to work from, and our staff will help you every step of the way.

Get together with fellow supporters in your community and attend a Last Call for Change phonebank near you tonight.

Mississippi Call Team: Don't Let Up

Kevin Flynn — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 19:38:41 EDT

Last week the Missippi Call Team set a goal of making 1,000 calls into Florida by 9:00 PM on October 29th. As of today, you've alread shattered that target, making over 1600 phone calls. Altogether 17,271 calls have been made so far by this team of dedicated grassroots supporters from every corner of the state.

But as Barack explained in Canton, Ohio yesterday:

Don't believe for a second this election is over.
Don't think for a minute that power concedes.
We have a lot of work to do.
We have to work like our future depends on it, in this last week, because it does depend on it this week.

Even if you've never made calls before, it's not too late to start. The Neighbor to Neighbor phonebanking tool allows anyone to get involved without any previous experience. It just takes a few minutes to set up and get started calling. You'll be provided with lists of voters and a call script. Watch this instructional video on how to use the make calls from home, or you can join an organized event and enjoy the company of other supporters.

You can also attned a Last Call for Change house party this Wednesday, October 29. Invite everyone you know to watch Barack's 30-minute presentation and make important phone calls to voters in key battleground states. Click here for more details.

Mississippi Call - Team Friday Night Progress Report

Kevin Flynn — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:13:36 EDT

The Mississippi Call Team has set a goal of making 1,000 calls into Florida this between October 22nd and 29th, and as promised earlier, tonight we have a progress report. As of this writing on October 24 at 10:00 PM EDT, 558 calls have been logged, putting us right on course to meet our target. All together over 16,000 calls have been made by this team of dedicated grassroots supporters from every corner of our state.

The most important thing to remember now is to not let-up. The past 20 months of hard work by millions of Americans comes down to these last few crucial days. The goal is 1,000 calls, and Mississippi should strive to shatter that goal to show that this election is too important to leave to chance.

If you haven't started yet, it's not too late. The Neighbor to Neighbor phonebanking tool allows anyone to get involved without any previous experience. It just takes a few minutes to set up and get started calling. You'll be provided with lists of voters and a call script. Watch this instructional video on how to use the make calls from home, or you can join an organized event and enjoy the company of other supporters.

You can also Host a Last Call for Change house party next Wednesday, October 29. Invite everyone you know to watch Barack's 30-minute presentation and make important phone calls to voters in key battleground states. Click here for more details.

Early Voting in underway in Florida now, but the last day is November 1st. Your phone calls to suporters and undecided voters can help us secure crucial votes, today.

Mississippi: Time to Call Florida

Kevin Flynn — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:21:03 EDT

There are many ways for you to have an impact on this campaign, but the single most important thing you can do is to talk directly to voters. There’s nothing more powerful and effective than everyday people reaching out to their neighbors – or in this case, people in a neighboring battleground state – and talking about why they support Barack.

With less than two weeks left in this election, one of the best ways that supporters in Mississippi can help is to make calls into Florida, a key battleground state where both campaigns have been competing heavily for months now.

These calls provide essential support for field organizers on the ground, as they go door to door to Get Out The Vote.

In yesterday's GOTV strategy call with the Mississippi Call Team, Florida's Field Director, Angela Botticella, talked about the ground operation in Florida and explained why your calls are so essential for this campaign. Also, veteran caller Pat Mohl offered some helpful advice on making calls using the Neighbor to Neighbor.

I simply want everyone to know this is probably the most rewarding thing I've done to actively be involved in a political campaign in my life. I am 66 years old and I have never been more fired up or inspired by the conviction that I have in the value of [an Obama] presidency, and also in the fact that people really are searching for the right thing to do. Most of the people, when you make these calls, are very courteous...Make sure you have a smile in your voice, and sound happy to be talking to them, because their vote is so important in Florida... Remember, it's such an exciting time, and this is probably the most important election we'll have, at least in my lifetime.

You can listen to highlights from the strategy call below:

The Mississippi Call Team has set a goal to make at least 1,000 calls in the next seven days. This means we need everyone to step up their efforts and make a commitment to reach out to as many voters as possible.

In a race this close, every conversation matters. The way we win is by engaging more people in real conversations about the issues and letting them know about Barack’s message of change. Early Voting has just begun in Florida, and your calls could translate into votes today.

We'll be updating you on our progress here on the Mississippi blog throughout the week. If you can commit to even 20 calls a night, you can provide valuable support for our staff on the ground. Almost two years of work comes down to these last two weeks, but we know what we need to do to win.

Mississippi State for Obama: Help Barack in Florida this Weekend

Kevin Flynn — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 22:32:01 EDT

The Florida Campaign for Change sent out this important call for help:

Dear friends,
In Florida, it's already Election Day. People are voting by mail and Early Voting began this week.
Florida is a crucial battleground state that could once again decide the outcome of this election. That's why this weekend, Saturday, October 25th through Sunday, October 26th, Obama supporters from across the country are traveling to Florida to reach out to voters.
Will you Drive for Change and take a short trip to make a big difference?
http://my.barackobama.com/CometoFL
The Florida Campaign for Change is hard at work reaching out to undecided voters. Polls show an incredibly close race here. But there are still far too many people who don't know enough about Barack -- who he is, where he stands on the issues that matter most, and his plan to fix the economy.
This country can't afford four or eight more years of George Bush's failed policies. Since face-to-face contact is the most effective way to grow this movement for change, your work could mean the difference between winning and losing Florida -- and that could be the difference between winning and losing this election.
Sign up now to come to the Sunshine State this weekend, and invite your friends and family to come along:
With two weeks until November 4th, we can't afford to sit on the sidelines. We can't do this without you.
Thanks, Florida Campaign for Change

Tuesday: Join in a Conference Call with Campaign Staffers

Kevin Flynn — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 15:59:25 EDT

This Tuesday, October 21th, at 7:30pm EDT, Mississippi supporters are encouraged to join an official conference call with campaign staffers to learn more about Neighbor to Neighbor and how they can make a huge impact for Barack in this historic election.

In addition to learning the basics of Neighbor to Neighbor, you wil hear from special guests who will talk about our ground game in the battleground states you'll be calling into.

We'll be doing a conference call and a webinar (an online seminar), so you can follow along with the training on your own computer and ask questions. Don't worry though if you're not able to join the webinar - you can still listen in on the conference call!

Here are the details:

Phone Number: 703-259-9001

Access Code: 365-639-328

If you can join us for the webinar, RSVP now:

http://my.barackobama.com/webinar16

I hope you can join us!

If you can't make this special conference call, learn more about Neighbor to Neighbor by watching these training videos. Then, make sure you are signed up so you can start making calls as soon as possible. Every call plays a part in this campaign and puts us one step closer to our goal in November.

Sunday: Special Event with Congressman James E. Clyburn

Kevin Flynn — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 11:03:11 EDT

Please join our special guest Congressman James E. Clyburn (D-SC), House Majority Whip on Sunday in Jackson, Mississippi for an event in support of Barack Obama for President.

Event with Congressman James E. Clyburn
Sunday, October 19, 2008
12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

733 N. State Street
Jackson, MS 39202

About House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC):

In 2006, with Democrats having just won back the majority in Congress, Jim Clyburn was unanimously elected by his fellow Democratic Members of Congress to the position of Majority Whip of the U.S. House of Representatives. He is the first Member of Congress from South Carolina and the second African American to hold this position.

Congressman Clyburn was first elected to serve in Congress in 1992 and became co-president of his freshman class. In 1998, he was unanimously elected to serve as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and became Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus in 2002. The son of a minister, Congressman Clyburn also serves as leader of the House Democrats' Faith Working Group.

The Campaign for Change has been very busy at work. People are voting by mail right now, and folks will be voting early on the last two Saturday's before the election. Polls show a close race in Mississippi but there are only 18 days left and still far too many people in Mississippi who need to know how much we need them to get to the polls on November 4th.

Come by the office and sign up for a Get Out The Vote shift, it's easy!

Bring your friends, family, and neighbors to meet with Congressman Clyburn and get ready for the final push of the campaign!

Drive for Change: Highways of Hope

Kevin Flynn — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 10:30:05 EDT

Americans love to drive, and what better way to enjoy that pursuit than by Driving for Change to help elect Barack Obama President? In a number of key states, this election will be incredibly close. There is no better way to help make a difference than by traveling to a battleground stake where your work will have the biggest impact.

Austin K. and his girlfriend Liz L. decided that a road trip from their home in Chicago to New Mexico was in order to do their part. That's a long way to drive, but the good news is you can visit one of many states nearby to your home. Our Drive For Change sign-up form will provide you with a detailed list of where and when you're needed most.

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.

Even if you can't hit the road, the online tools on My.BarackObama.com allow everyone to get involved in their communities or help out from the comfort of their own home .

Final Debate Watch Parties

Kevin Flynn — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:19:05 EDT

Jon Carson, the National Field Director, is urging supporters across the country to get together for the final presidential debate this Wednesday. Sign up today to host a Debate Watch Party - or attend one near you

The final presidential debate is this Wednesday, October 15th, at 9:00 p.m. Eastern.

It's the last chance for undecided voters to see Barack and John McCain side-by-side and determine who will bring the change this country needs.

And it will be the final time before election night to come together in this way with your friends, family, and fellow supporters.

Make the most of this opportunity by signing up to host a Debate Watch Party -- or attend one near you.

If you've joined us for an event before, you know how powerful they can be to help build support and grow our movement. If you haven't, it's a terrific way to connect with fellow supporters and folks who may just be making up their minds.

If you can host an event, we'll make sure you have everything you need to make it a success. We're having a special conference call for Debate Watch Party hosts on Tuesday, when we'll give you ideas for how to get your guests involved in the rest of the campaign.

In these final weeks, each of us needs to do whatever we can to keep strengthening this campaign and encourage undecided voters to cast their votes for change.

Sign up to host or attend a Debate Watch Party now.

Thanks,

Jon

Jon Carson
National Field Director
Obama for America

Wednesday: Join in a Conference Call with Campaign Staffers

Kevin Flynn — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 17:17:22 EDT

This Wednesday, October 8th, at 7:30pm EDT, Mississippi supporters are encouraged to join an official conference call with campaign staffers to learn more about Neighbor to Neighbor and how they can make a huge impact for Barack in this historic election.

In addition to learning the basics of Neighbor to Neighbor, you wil hear from special guests talking about our ground game in the battleground states you'll be calling into.

We'll be doing a conference call and a webinar (an online seminar), so you can follow along with the training on your own computer and ask questions. Don't worry though if you're not able to join the webinar - you can still listen in on the conference call!

Here are the details:

Phone Number: 718-709-0655
Access Code: 487-169-533

If you can join us for the webinar, RSVP now:

http://my.barackobama.com/webinar5

I hope you can join us!

Now or Never in Mississippi

Christopher Hass — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 10:16:02 EDT

This morning, Barack sent out the following email to supporters in Mississippi:

You may already be registered to vote, but you probably know several people who are not.

If they're not registered in Mississippi by today at noon, they can't vote in this historic election.

This election is going to hinge on unprecedented voter turnout -- especially in Mississippi.

Make sure you're registered.

Then encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same.

Together, we can make history and bring about the change we need.

Thanks,

Barack

Mississippi: Register before it's too late

Kevin Flynn — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 18:24:43 EDT

The last day to register to vote in Mississippi is next Friday, October 3rd.

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 Mississippi is absolutely crucial to victory on Election Day.

Visit VoteForChange.com, our one-stop voter registration website, and register before the Mississippi deadline.

Supporters like you have built the biggest grassroots movement in the history of American politics.

But in just 5 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.

Thanks,

Barack

If you have friends or family who support Barack but might not be registered, you can use our online email importer to send them a message about VoteForChange.com. Don't worry -- we won't hold on to any of the email addresses you share. It only takes a minute, and for your friends and family it could mean the difference between participating and sitting on the sidelines come November.

The Debate and What's Next

Christopher Hass — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 15:19:44 EDT

There was news this morning that tonight's presidential debate will proceed as planned, with both candidates in attendance. Last night, National Field Director Jon Carson sent out a message inviting supporters to attend debate parties, and explaining what comes next for the campaign . . .

The election is less than 40 days away, and the American people deserve to hear directly from the candidates about how they intend to lead our country.

You're invited to join a Debate Watch Party in your community and discuss the issues that are most important to you and your family, friends, and neighbors.

Find a Debate Watch Party in your area and RSVP today.

These parties will allow you to to get to know folks in your community, and continue building this campaign from the bottom up by reaching out to even more supporters using our Neighbor to Neighbor tool.

If you can't attend a party, you can still use our Neighbor to Neighbor tool to reach out to swing voters in a crucial battleground state who need to hear from you.

It's an extremely powerful way to build support for Barack.

Whether you can attend a Debate Watch Party or not, it's a great way to connect with fellow voters.

Get your list of potential supporters right now and start making phone calls today.

Neighbor to Neighbor gives you everything you need to get started.

As Barack prepares for the presidential debate, we'll be preparing, too -- by laying the groundwork for victory on Election Day.

Let's get to work.

Thanks,

Jon

Jon Carson
National Field Director
Obama for America

Friday: Rock the Debate in Oxford, MS

Kevin Flynn — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 17:34:12 EDT

Show your support for Barack this Friday, September 26th, at an Obama for America visibility event before the first presidential debate at The University of Mississippi.

Here are the details:
Rock the Debate
Visibility and Watch Party

The Grove
University of Mississippi
Oxford, MS

Friday, September 26th
Program Begins: 12:00 p.m.

http://ms.barackobama.com/RockTheDebate

Phone Call by Phone Call

Christopher Hass — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 19:26:57 EDT

One of the newest features of our Neighbor to Neighbor voter contact system is the online phonebanking tool. During the primary, thousands of supporters used our old online calling system to make literally millions of phone calls that made the difference in hard fought primaries across the country. In November, these phone calls will once again be a key part of our strategy.

Here is a quick tour of the new phonebanking tool:

The phonebanking tool provides you with lists of targeted voters in your community, a brief calling script, and an easy interface to enter your results. You can print off call lists and make calls offline, or you can make calls while at your computer.

When you’re done calling, report your results back to the campaign so we can update the system and let our staff and volunteers on the ground know where are supporters are and who needs more information.

In the coming days, we'll be adding more features and more calling campaigns that will allow you to make calls to key battleground states. In some areas, you'll be able to make peer to peer phone calls to talk to students, veterans, women, Latinos, and other important groups. If you're interested in making peer to peer calls, visit our People page and sign up for the constituency groups and demographics that apply to you.

No matter who you are or where you live, if you can make time during the coming weeks to help reach out to other voters, sign up now.

When campaign manager David Plouffe talked about a "persuasion army" he meant nothing more, and nothing less, than millions of volunteers doing their part talking to friends, family, and neighbors one person at a time.

"Now it's our turn."

Christopher Hass — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:24:43 EDT

From the earliest days of the campaign, Barack has closed his speeches not just with an ask for a vote, but with a call to action. From the beginning, this campaign has been built on the belief that ordinary people can make a difference in their lives and in their nation's government, but only if they act.

In his closing remarks in Daytona Beach this morning, Barack made this case as clear as ever:

I hope you'll join me. I hope you'll walk with me, so that we can turn the page on the failed policies of the past. And if you make that commitment, if everybody out here is getting registered, if everybody is out there volunteering, if all of you are doing a little community organizing, if you're making phone calls, sending out emails, knocking on doors, talking to folks at church, if you've decided that you want to roll up your sleeves and join with me and change this country, block by block, neighborhood by neighborhood, county by county, state by state, then I promise you this -- we will not just win Florida. We will win this general election, and then you and I together are going to change this country and change the world.

In his speech in Wooster, Ohio last Wednesday, Joe Biden referred to this moment as an "inflection point" on the issues of war, global warming, the economy and more.

But it is more than just that. This moment is a leverage point, in which the work you do over the next 45 days will have a greater impact than at perhaps any other point in your life.

Right now, this race is neck-and-neck. In over a dozens states, the margin between winning and losing -- the margin between a government that institutionalizes the policies and mistakes of the last eight years and an administration that brings real change to Washington -- will be the work done on the ground by ordinary people.

Over the course of the evening, we'll be showing you a number of ways in which you can get involved, no matter where you live or what your past political experience is.

This first step is simple:

Mississippi Registers New Voters

Kevin Flynn — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 07:08:23 EDT

Mike M. sent in these pics from a recent Voter Registration Drive and wanted to make sure everyone got mentioned for all their hard work and dedication:

Bobby Holiday is with FM radio station 106.1 and has done more to promote our efforts than I can adequately express. Wendy M. is head of our Creativity Deptartment and Minister of Optimism. Heather H. and her son "Grip", and the Rev. Burt Richardson who we're fortunate to have for encouragement and wise counsel.

Registration deadlines are quickly approaching, so we need everyone to work hard wherever and whenever they can. You can visit our Voter Registration Action Center for more information on how to find or host a voter registration event in your neighborhood.

Message from David Plouffe: How we're going to win

Amanda Scott — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:27 EDT

Campaign Manager David Plouffe just sent out this email...

Amanda --

Want a look inside our strategy to win the battleground states?

I recorded a video on my laptop yesterday to brief you on the plan -- including details that haven't been shared publicly before.

Our fight in the battleground states is going to be tougher than a lot of you may think. Take Florida, where George Bush won by just 381,000 votes in 2004. The campaign we're running there is going to cost more than $39 million.

That can only come from supporters like you -- unlike John McCain, we don't take money from Washington lobbyists or special interest PACs.

To reach our goal, we need 50,000 new donors by Friday at midnight.

You can inspire a fellow supporter to make their first donation -- and make your donation go twice as far.

Will you watch the video and double your impact with a donation today?

This race has come down to a matter of weeks, and it could pivot on a few tremendously important swing states.

Supporters like you are strengthening this campaign in amazing ways -- voter registration efforts, organizing in your communities, and bringing folks into the political process like never before.

Barack and Joe can't win this without you.

Make a donation of $25 or more right now to provide the resources we'll need to make victory a reality:

https://donate.barackobama.com/promise

This campaign is committed to winning in every state we can. But it's the support of folks like you that will decide this election.

Thanks for everything you're doing,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Women Back Obama-Biden on the Issues

Amanda Scott — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:32:56 EDT

While John McCain has been distracting from the issues at hand with the sleaziest campaign Americans have ever seen, Barack Obama and Joe Biden are traveling the country discussing the issues that women and families care about, such as ensuring women are paid the same as men for equal work, the right for women to make their own family planning choices, reforming our health care system, and rebuilding an economy that strengthens the middle class.

This week the Obama campaign is highlighting the stark differences between McCain-Palin and Obama-Biden on the issues women and families care about with events across the country and new advertising. A new ad - called “Burden” - highlights John McCain’s failure to stand up for equal pay for women at a time when more and more families depend on the income earned by working women.

Watch “Burden” below....
The ad will air in key battleground states on Tuesday and DC/Northern VA markets. The ad will run during programming with large female audiences, including morning shows, soap operas, daytime TV, cable channels like Lifetime, Oxygen, E!, HGTV, and Bravo and during the fall premieres of several prime time shows. There will be a companion radio spot that goes up on Tuesday that will be in similar markets and a web ad appearing on sites that women frequent such as iVillage and magazine sites.

To kick-off the week of activities, the Obama campaign announced an impressive list of national women leaders who stand with the Obama–Biden ticket because of their record of fighting for women and families and the change they will bring to all Americans. On Tuesday the National Organization for Women and Feminist Majority endorsed the Obama-Biden ticket for the change women need.

On Wednesday, the Obama-Biden campaign received the endorsement of Lilly Lebetter at an event with Michelle Obama and Jill Biden in Virginia. On Wednesday night, Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton will participate in one of the largest women’s web forums, reaching tens of thousands of women in their living rooms.

On Friday, Barack Obama, Joe Biden & Jill Biden will hold women’s rallies in battleground states and over the weekend women leaders will be joining with Obama supporters to hold Women for the Change We Need events in all 50 states.

There’s a reason why 53% of women voters believe that Obama-Biden better understands the issues and concerns important to women, compared to 35% for McCain-Palin, according to a September poll for Emily’s List. While Obama and Biden have a record of fighting to strengthen families and provide women with the rights and support they deserve, John McCain and Sarah Palin offer just more of the same.

Continue reading to see where Barack and McCain stand on women's issues...

Obama Directly Addresses America in Two-Minute Ad: Plan for Change

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 08:35:26 EDT

CHICAGO, IL – The Obama campaign today released a two-minute advertisement in which Senator Obama will speak directly to the nation on his view of the state of the economy and what he would do to fix it if he is elected president. The ad will begin today nationally and in battleground states around the country.

Watch the ad...

Visit BarackObama.com/plan to read Obama's plan for the economy now.

Please donate now to help put this ad on the air and help deliver this important message to voters across America.

Continue reading for the script of the ad...

Vote For Change

Christopher Hass — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:44:23 EDT

As we gear up for an historic election, we've launched a new website designed to simply the voting process and make it easy for voters across the country to participate. VoteforChange.com is a new voter registration tool that allows you to verify your registration status, register to vote for the first time, or get the relevant absentee voting information for your state – all online.

As deputy campaign manager Steve Hildebrand told the Boston Globe:

We think the turnout will be beyond record turnout, and if we're effective, we will have done two additional things -- brought in millions of new people who are registered to vote and we will increase the percentage of registered voters who will turn out.

This race is too close and too important to stay home on Election Day. Often the reason that people don't vote is because they don't understand how easy it is to register to vote. VoteforChange.com simplifies the process. It allows voters to register, check registration status, or find a polling location – all at the click of a button.

Obama Wins Mississippi!

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 20:01:02 EDT

Barack Obama wins the Mississippi primary...

Thanks to Garsheo, Mike, and all of our other supporters in the Magnolia State...

Barack rallied nearly 9,000 in Jackson last night...

Let's celebrate our 30th win by making calls to Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Indiana...

And if you can donate, we can continue to throw rallies across the country and spread Barack's message of change and unity to millions of new voters...

Let's keep this thing going. Yes we can!

UPDATE: Here's Barack on tonight's victory:

I am grateful to the people of Mississippi for joining the millions of Americans from every corner of the country who have chosen to turn the page on the failed politics of the past and embrace our movement for change. Americans need a President in Washington who will bridge our differences instead of exploit them, take on the lobbyists instead of taking their money, and concentrate on fighting for your future instead of their own. That’s what I’ve done over the course of my two decades of public service, and that’s the message I’ll bring to Americans in the remaining ten contests left in this nominating process.

Voting in Mississippi

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 17:40:05 EDT

Garsheo Black -- a Marine Corps veteran and Obama supporter in Mississippi -- talks about why voting is critical to bringing about change...

Mississippians: if you haven't alraedy voted, find your polling place now... You have until 7:00 PM.

For folks around the country, you can still make calls and get out the vote!

Mississippi: Your Moment is Now

Christopher Hass — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 07:48:01 EDT

Today, for the first time in 20 years, Mississippi will play a major role in selecting the Democratic nominee for president. All across the state voters are heading to the polls to add their voices to the millions calling for change.

Polls are open today from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and any registered voter can cast their vote for Barack by requesting a Democratic ballot at their polling location.

Find your polling location now, and check the information below to make sure that you know how and where to vote for Barack today.

For more than a year, we've worked together and built a grassroots movement for change that's sweeping across the country. Today, the eyes of the nation turn to Mississippi. This is your moment, your chance to be part of history.

Mississippi Voter Rights:
Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11th. If you are in line by 7:00 p.m., you must be allowed to vote.
In Mississippi, any registered voter can vote for Barack on Tuesday by requesting a Democratic ballot at the polls.
If you believe you were left off the voter list or otherwise prevented from regular voting by error, you must be allowed to cast a provisional ballot.
No identification is required at the polling place unless you are a first-time voter. If you are a first-time voter in Mississippi who registered by mail and did not provide identification at that time, you should bring a valid photo ID, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check, or other government document that shows your name and address.
If you have problems or questions, call our voter hotline at 1-866-675-2008 and press 4.

Barack in Jackson, Mississippi

Sam Graham-Felsen — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 20:35:03 EDT

Barack rallied nearly 9,000 in Jackson tonight...

On the night before the big day in Mississippi, Barack fired up the crowd and made it clear that he's in this race to become President of the United States...

If you're from Mississippi, don't forget to make your voice heard and vote tomorrow -- click here to find your polling locations.

And for folks around the country -- help us expand our lead: make some calls and make a contribution. It's up to us to build this movement.

Mississippi, Door by Door

Christopher Hass — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:52:48 EDT

From the Laurel Leader-Call:

“Fired Up, Ready to Go,” that’s the chant that supporters of Barack Obama took to the people of Jones County and the surrounding area Sunday.

Organizers of the Barack Obama for President Campaign rallied voters Sunday by visiting numerous churches in the area, conducting a rally at K.C. Bottom Park and by canvassing the area passing out fliers and knocking on doors encouraging people to get out and vote on Tuesday.

… Thaddeus Edmonson, area coordinator of the Obama Campaign for Jones County, told those gathered at the park that it’s important to stay fired up and to voice their support for Obama.

“Tuesday is the big day. It’s the day Mississippi will come to the top,” Edmonson said.

“Barack Obama is not a candidate for black people. He’s a candidate for all people.”

Healthcare, economics, the high gas prices, affordable and decent housing and the senator’s position on the war in Iraq were issues Obama supporters said encouraged them to become involved in the campaign.

“I was so discouraged with the system that I was not going to vote,” David Willis told the group gathered at the rally. “Then, I heard Barack Obama. ... Barack Obama gave me hope.”

…“We are at a crossroads in Mississippi,” Edmonson said. “I’m going to the right with Obama. ... I’m voting for Obama so my grandchildren will have a better future.”

Cozzi told supporters that campaign workers are out in the community visiting with people and encouraging them to vote on Tuesday.

“Every step we make and every door we knock on gets us one step forward,” Cozzi said. “We are canvassing old-fashion style: door to door.”

Twenty-six year-old Temeka Arrington of Taylorsville said Obama’s platform and goals for the future inspired her to become involved.

“He brings a lot of good qualities that our people need,” she said. “He would be a good president for the country and a change for the better.”

Canvassing will be continuing all day today and tomorrow. If you live in Mississippi there is still time to sign up to help Get Out The Vote for Barack in your community.

Earlier this morning Barack spoke at a Town Hall Meeting in Columbus, and he will be leading a Stand for Change Rally in Jackson tonight. Doors at 5 p.m., and the event is free and open to the public.

Voting in Mississippi will take place tomorrow from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Find your polling location now.

Video: "Not running for vice president"

Sam Graham-Felsen — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:12:20 EDT

Barack Obama tells a crowd in Columbus, Mississippi that he's not running for vice president -- he's running to be the President of the United States of America...

If you want to see Barack as Commander in Chief, it's time to step up. Make some calls to get out the vote in Mississippi and make a contribution to help grow our movement. Our moment is now.

Obama responds to Clinton in Columbus, Mississippi

Sam Graham-Felsen — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 13:22:13 EDT

Barack fired up a crowd of over 1,700 in Columbus, Mississippi today...

Barack specifically responded to Clinton's suggestion that he might make a good vice president.

"I don't understand. If I'm not ready, how is it do you think I would be such a great vice president? Do you understand that?" he said, as the crowd erupted in applause.

"I am not running for vice president," he said. "I am running for President of the United States of America. I am running to be Commander in Chief."

We'll have video from Columbus soon.

Please do your part and help us win in Mississippi -- make some calls today. With your voices, we can get out the vote in Mississippi, win our 30th contest, and expand our lead. Let's do this. Let's show the country we are ready for Barack Obama to be our next President of the United States.

Monday in Mississippi

Christopher Hass — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 13:07:08 EDT

It's GOTV Monday in Mississippi and all across the state grassroots supporters are working to Get Out the Vote for Barack:

From WLOX TV:

It's the first time Adrienne Chapman has ever knocked on doors for a politician, and Tuesday's primary marks a special occasion for this 18-year-old.

"I'm very ecstatic about being able to vote, after all, this is my first time voting," Chapman said.

Chapman and other Barack Obama supporters from across the country walked the streets of Moss Point, reminding everyone to stop by the polls to vote, even people who passed by in cars.

"I think everyone is realizing how important it is just because of the past encounters and events that have taken place, also the war. And now they see that their vote can count and make a difference, with who is president and the welfare of our nation," Chapman said.

… For Chapman, she says learning political involvement is a lesson that will stick with her for decades.

… "It's something I will be able to tell my children and grandchildren later on, that I was a part of history."

Canvassing and phonebanking will continue today and Tuesday, all the way up until the polls close at 7:00 PM tomorrow night. If you live in Mississippi you can sign up now to help, and now matter where you are you can help call Mississippi voters from home using our online phonebanking tools.

As Mississippi Governor Ray Mabus wrote this morning in an email to supporters:

Barack began his career as a community organizer on the South Side of Chicago, where he learned that change only happens when people are united and working toward a common purpose.
With this election, we have an opportunity to create a new kind of politics and a system of government that answers to no one but the people.
That's why Barack has not accepted a dime from lobbyists or PACs during this campaign. Instead, he's relying on you and your voice.

On this Monday in Mississippi, your voice can make a difference.

Mississippi Rallies for Barack

Christopher Hass — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 11:56:28 EDT

With the state primary just one day away, supporters are rallying across Mississippi today.

Russell Simmons is in Jackson today to lead a special Get Out The Vote Rally for Barack, starting at noon:

Get Out The Vote Rally with Russell Simmons

Jackson State University
Amphitheatre located in the center of Student Plaza
Tiger Walk (off of John R. Lynch St.)
Jackson, MS

Monday, March 10
12:00 p.m.

In Biloxi, legendary gospel singer Smokie Norful will be at Biloxi's Main Street Missionary Baptist Church tonight for a free concert to promote Tuesday's primary election.

Gospel Concert with Smokie Norful

Main Street Missionary Baptist Church
321 Main Street
Biloxi, MS 39530

Monday, March 10
7:00 p.m.

And later this evening, Barack himself will be at Jackson State University for a Stand for Change Rally.

Stand for Change Rally with Barack Obama

Jackson State University
Lee E. Williams Athletic Center
1400 Lynch St.
Jackson, MS

Monday, March 10
Doors open: 5:00 p.m.

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

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

Mississippi, Block by Block

Christopher Hass — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 15:29:00 EDT

Polls open in Mississippi in less than 48 hours, and right now supporters across the state are going block by block to talk to people in their community to Get Out the Vote for Barack.

Today's Mississippi Commercial Dispatch reported on the incredible experience of one group of supporters:

Neighborhood by neighborhood, dozens of Barack Obama campaign volunteers fanned out across the Golden Triangle today to blanket each home with campaign literature and urge voters to vote for Obama in Tuesday's Democratic presidential primary.

“We knocked on probably 70 houses this morning,” said Obama campaign volunteer Cheikh Taylor, of Starkville, Saturday afternoon, as he and childhood friend Carlos Harris picked up more door hangers and brochures at the Starkville Obama headquarters on Main Street at Level III. The two had been to the Rosedale neighborhood and were headed out to the Hancock Street neighborhood, Taylor's boyhood home.

... On Hancock Circle, you could say that the warm welcome greeting Taylor and Harris - and by extension, Obama - is because these men know nearly everyone on the block. But even in the Rosedale neighborhood, where these volunteers were virtually unknown, the response to the Illinois senator has been overwhelmingly supportive.

“The response is that ‘he has my vote,'” said Taylor after canvassing in the morning.

When residents were asked if the planned to vote Tuesday and if they intended to support Obama, the response was definite.

“Oh, of course,” said George Tutton, who lives on Hancock Circle.

“Oh, sure I plan to support him,” remarked Horace Montgomery, who lives a few doors down, and who noted Taylor and Harris were the first volunteers from any campaign to have knocked on his door this year.

Obama, who started out in public service as a community organizer in poor neighborhoods in south Chicago, is someone Taylor, who works with Brickfire Project - which helps people acquire affordable housing - can relate to.

… “That's what grassroots is. It starts from the bottom by each one of us and it grows,” said Taylor who sees Obama as something akin to a movement energized by its millions of voters and supporters.

“People are starting to feel something they haven't in years,” remarked Taylor on his walk down Hancock Circle. “And that's they feel like they're a part of the political process.”

One of the incredible stories of this campaign has been the way ordinary people all across the country have come together to change politics from the bottom up. Your efforts have gotten us to where we are now, but in this close race every state, every delegate, and every vote counts.

That's why we need all of our supporters to help Get Out The Vote for Barack in Mississippi — especially on Monday and Tuesday. If you live in Mississippi, you can sign up today to join fellow supporters to canvass in your neighborhood.

And no matter where you live, you can help by making calls to Mississippi voters from home, using our online phonebanking system.

Visit MS.BarackObama.com for more news and information from Mississippi.

Make the difference in Mississippi

Christopher Hass — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 16:53:09 EST

You can have a major impact on the race for the Democratic nomination.

The Mississippi Democratic primary is this Tuesday, March 11th. And in a contest as close as this, every vote and every delegate will help determine the nominee.

That's why we need all of our supporters to help Get Out The Vote for Barack in the days leading up to the primary -- especially on Monday and Tuesday.

Sign up to join your fellow Obama supporters in canvassing your community. Knock on doors, talk to fellow voters face-to-face, and make a difference in Mississippi.

If we've learned anything from this campaign so far, it's that every delegate counts. We cannot afford to leave any delegates -- or any voters -- behind.

The grassroots Get-Out-The-Vote effort in Mississippi is the best way to make sure Barack's supporters turn out on Primary Day. It's fun, it's effective, and best of all, it can help ensure the success of this movement for change.

No experience is required to canvass for Barack. All you need is your continued dedication to the kind of change only Barack can bring to Washington. Join your fellow supporters and help Get Out The Vote for Barack.

Learn more and sign up to volunteer now.

What we do in the next few days in Mississippi can make a big difference for Barack.

I hope you'll join us,

Aaron

Aaron Gardner
Mississippi Field Director
Obama for America

Mississippi Prepares to Get Out The Vote

Christopher Hass — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 17:32:23 EST

The Mississippi primary is just days away, and this weekend is the last, best chance to reach voters before the polls open on Tuesday. For the next four days, our supporters across the state will be knocking on doors and talking with friends and neighbors to help Get Out The Vote for Barack in Mississippi.

From his early days as a community organizer, Barack learned firsthand that there is no better way to influence voters than through face-to-face contact, one person at a time. What was true then is still true today, and by reaching out to friends, family, and even strangers you can help build this movement one voter, one house, one block at a time.

The statewide canvassing effort will begin tomorrow morning and will continue on through Primary Day, Tuesday, March 11th. If you live in Mississippi, there is still time to sign up and get involved.

Canvasses on Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday will have two shifts: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Canvasses on Sunday will have one shift, starting at 2:00 p.m. and ending at 6:00 p.m. No prior experience is needed, and you can join us for one or both of the shift times.

What we do over the next few days will have a real impact on Mississippi and on this race. Whether you can spare a few hours or a few days, this is your chance to join other grassroots supporters to make a difference in your community.

And no matter where you live, you can make a donation to help grow the movement in Mississippi.

Jackson Free Press: Vote Barack Obama on March 11

Christopher Hass — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 14:42:31 EST

Today's edition of the Jackson Free Press formally endorsed Barack Obama:

The Jackson Free Press enthusiastically endorses Barack Obama for the Mississippi Democratic primary on March 11. We believe strongly that Obama brings the change and enthusiasm that Mississippians, and Americans, desire in order that we might find unity as a nation after a long period of very partisan leadership from both major parties. We admire Obama's ability to get younger voters, as well as non-white voters, excited about turning out to vote. That, added to his remarkable appeal to white voters, including many Republicans, can mean the kind of leadership many Americans, and Mississippians, crave.

Perhaps most of all, we admire Obama's willingness to stand up for what he believes, particularly his stance against a poorly executed war in Iraq, in which many Mississippians lost family members. And we feel secure that he is ready to take the presidency after eight years of George W. Bush and turn the country in the right direction toward fiscal responsibility and renewed hope for the future.

Obama is bringing excitement, and hope, back to politics for many people who had lost it. The Jackson Free Press encourages all eligible voters to vote for Barack Obama in Tuesday's primary election.

If you live in Mississippi, you can find your polling place now and make plans to be part of Tuesday's historic primary.

And no matter where you are, you can help out by making calls to Mississippi to identify supporters and encourage them to get out and vote for Barack on Tuesday.

Mississippi: Stand for Change with Barack in Jackson on Monday Night

Christopher Hass — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 13:59:20 EST

This year's presidential primary has already resulted in record turnout across the country, and for the first time in decades states like Mississippi will play a crucial part. Our grassroots supporters are gearing up to hit the streets and knock on doors this weekend to Get Out The Vote for Barack. On Monday Barack himself will be in Mississippi, less than 24 hours before the polls open for Tuesday's primary.

As the Mississippi Daily Journal noted, "This year is different."

On March 11, Mississippians will have a presidential primary, and for the first time in a long while, it will actually mean something.

If you live in Mississippi, this is your chance to be part of history. You can join Barack for a special Stand for Change Rally in Jackson on Monday night, March 10th.

Here are the details:

STAND FOR CHANGE RALLY with BARACK OBAMA

Jackson State University
Lee E. Williams Athletic Center
1400 Lynch St.
Jackson, MS

Monday, March 10
Doors Open: 5:00 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required, but an RSVP is encouraged. Seating is limited and admission is on a first come, first-served basis. For security reasons, please do not bring bags, and no signs or banners are permitted.

Polls will be open on Tuesday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and all registered voters can participate in the Democratic primary by requesting a Democratic ballot. If you are a Mississippi voter you can find your polling place online.

Visit MS.BarackObama.com for more news and information from Mississippi.

Help us grow this movement in Mississippi and across the country:

Mississippi: Canvass for Change This Weekend

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:28:03 EST

With the March 11th primary just around the corner, Obama supporters across Mississippi are gearing up to hit the streets and knock on doors this weekend to Get Out The Vote for Barack:

Mississippi Canvassers Preparing for Jackson Canvass

There is no better way to influence voters than through face-to-face contact, one person at a time. If you live in Mississippi, you can find a canvass location near you and sign up now.

And no matter where you live, you can make a donation to help grow the movement in Mississippi.

Canvass for Barack in Mississippi

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 08:50:10 EST

The race for the Democratic nomination has come to Mississippi.

In less than one week, Mississippi voters will be making their voices heard in the Democratic primary on Tuesday, March 11th.

The work we do -- or don't do -- between now and Primary Day will make the difference for Barack. So join your fellow supporters as we canvass communities across the state -- going door-to-door and reaching out to Mississippi voters face-to-face.

Canvasses are happening every day from Saturday through Tuesday.

Sign up now to join a canvass near you.

Throughout this nomination process, we've seen that in a race as close as this, every vote and every delegate counts.

This canvass is a terrific opportunity to put our amazing grassroots energy to work in support of Barack and make sure turnout is as strong as possible on Primary Day.

No prior experience is required, and I promise this will be an exciting and rewarding time.

Become part of this effort, and speak to your friends and neighbors about our movement for change that is growing across the country.

Find a canvass happening near you and sign up now.

If you're unable to canvass, you can still help Get Out The Vote in Mississippi by calling voters from your own home with our online phonebanking tool.

Start making calls today.

Together, we can change America.

Hope to see you soon,

Aaron

Aaron Gardner
Mississippi Field Director
Obama for America

Countdown to Mississippi: Tuesday

Christopher Hass — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 17:45:06 EST

Biloxi organizational meeting

"Now we go to Wyoming and Mississippi .... We will continue to campaign in every state. We will not be cherry picking which states we deem is important because our attitude is that every state is important." - Barack Obama, Baltimore Sun, 2/4/08

As the eyes of the nation turn to next Tuesday's primary in Mississippi, supporters are organizing in churches, schools, and homes to build support for Barack.

The race for the Democratic nomination is incredibly close, and a strong grassroots movement will be crucial for our success in Mississippi. From the beginning, this campaign has understood the importance of organizing and campaigning in all 50 states, and all across the country our supporters have organized tremendous grassroots efforts to reach out to voters and tell them about Barack's vision for change.

If you live in Mississippi, there is still time to get involved to help Get Out The Vote for Barack. Talking to your fellow voters face-to-face is the most effective way to build support for Barack and grow this movement – one person at a time.

three generations of Obama supporters volunteering in Jackson, Mississippi

On Thursday, you can join your fellow Mississippians and show your support for Barack at an Obama for America visibility event before the Jefferson Jackson Dinner in Canton, beginning at 5:30 p.m. This is an important opportunity to show how strong our movement is across the state.

Visit MS.BarackObama.com for more news and information from Mississippi, and to find to out how to vote for Barack next Tuesday.

Help us grow this movement in Mississippi and across the country:

Volunteer for Barack in Mississippi

Christopher Hass — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 20:06:40 EST

Mississippi's primary is just one week from tomorrow – and you can help lead this movement in your community.

In such a close race for the Democratic nomination, every vote and every delegate will be crucial to our success.

All across the country, supporters have organized tremendous grassroots efforts to reach out to voters and tell them about Barack's vision for change.

Become part of this effort in Mississippi, and help Get Out The Vote for Barack.

Talking to your fellow voters face-to-face is the most effective way to build support for Barack and grow this movement – one person at a time.

These personal connections have paved the way to victory in 11 straight contests. And with your help, we can continue this success in Mississippi.

No prior experience is required to volunteer for this campaign. All you need is your continued dedication to this movement for change.

Join your fellow Mississippians – sign up to reach out to voters in your neighborhood today.

'Obama Campaigners Hit the Streets in Jackson'

Christopher Hass — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 15:06:24 EST

From the WLBT 3:

Several volunteers spent their afternoon knocking on doors and passing out flyers. For many of them, it was their first time participating in a presidential campaign. The group gathered at the Obama for America Mississippi headquarters on North State Street. Organizers dispensed maps and campaign materials to each team. Then it was off to their assigned neighborhoods where volunteers passed out flyers, answered questions, and signed up residents to volunteer.

Anne Lovelady says going out into the community is important, because it gives a local touch to a national campaign.

"I believe in my community. I believe in my citizens, and I want to share my enthusiasm and support. I want to answer questions," said Lovelady. "I want to hear what they have to say, and I believe that the one on one contact is especially important. I believe that we influence our neighbors more than somebody who does not know us."

Volunteers also spent their afternoon campaigning over the phone, while others put up signs around town.
Read the full article . . .

The Mississippi primary is March 11th. You can sign up now to help canvass or make calls in your neighborhood.

'Obama campaign stepping up'

Christopher Hass — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 20:33:58 EST

The Mississippi primary is March 11th, less than two weeks away. If you live in Mississippi, now is a great time to sign up to knock doors, make phone calls, become a neighborhood captain or a church captain or house an out of state volunteer. If you live in the Jackson area, you can visit our new headquarters.

From today's Mississippi SunHerald:

Mississippi's primary usually draws little national attention, but it appears Illinois Sen. Barack Obama is stepping up his efforts to win over the Magnolia State.

The state's March 11 primary - usually held after the races for the nomination are settled - could garner more notice than normal, as the Democratic race between Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton is still unsettled.

… The Obama campaign opened an office in Jackson this week and organizational meetings are being held across the state today, including one in Biloxi and one in Hattiesburg. A campaign-kickoff event at the popular downtown Jackson watering hole Hal and Mal's drew a couple of hundred potential volunteers Thursday night, staffers said.

… Two Mississippi superdelegates, U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson and Mississippi Democratic Executive Committee member Johnnie Patton, have already thrown their support to Obama; the rest, including U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor, remain uncommitted. So far six Mississippi superdelegates have been named, and a seventh will be nominated at the Mississippi Democratic Party's state convention.

Thompson, Patton and former Democratic Gov. Ray Mabus are all campaigning for Obama in the state.
Read the full article . . .

Mississippi's first ad launches: 'Future'

Christopher Hass — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:01:11 EST

Obama for America became the first campaign to go up on the air with television ads in Mississippi today. You can watch the first ad, "Future," below:

We've also opened our first Mississippi headquarters in Jackson at 733 North State Street. You can sign up now to get involved.

'Obama's Mississippi Campaign headquarters officially open for business.'

Christopher Hass — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 12:54:42 EST

From WLBT TV:

Presidential candidate Barack Obama's Mississippi Campaign headquarters is officially open for business.

More than 300 Obama supporters packed 733 North State street to hear a motivational speech by the candidate's Mississippi political campaign manager, Keevin Woods. They then signed up for various campaign jobs like phone-banking and door-knocking.

Neighborhood captains and church captains were also selected.

Woods says 3 or 4 more Obama campaign offices will be opened across the state.

Watch the WLBT TV news segment on the new Obama headquarters . . .

Sign up to get involved.

Countdown to March 11: Mississippi

Christopher Hass — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:07:09 EST

The attention right now may be focused on the four state showdown next Tuesday, but the Mississippi primary will follow just one week later on March 11th. In preparation, the first Obama for America Mississippi headquarters is opening in downtown Jackson.

Grassroots supporters in Mississippi have been organizing on their own for months though, meeting in small groups and helping spread the word about Barack to friends, family, and neighbors. The Columbus Dispatch reported on a gathering last Saturday night:

The spirited ongoing presidential contest is bringing out its own brand of fellowship among supporters, as organizers for Sen. Barack Obama … gathered for pizza and beers at a local bar and planned “house parties” along with sign-making workshops in anticipation of the Mississippi primary that they say will likely attract thousands of new voters and put the often overlooked Magnolia State primary in the national spotlight.

The event was a grassroots organizational meeting, coordinated through my.BarackObama.com, dubbed “Barack the Tavern.” Local supporters met at Dave’s Darkhorse Tavern in Starkville, where they got to know one another and talked about campaign strategies.

Darrin Stewart, a 22 year old supporter who attended the gathering, said that “This is the first time in my life when I'm actually standing behind someone like I'm standing behind Obama.”

The SunHerald reported:

Former Gov. Ray Mabus told reporters on a conference call on Monday that nearly 1,000 people have volunteered in Mississippi to assist Obama's presidential bid.

... Mabus said there are many voters who have not committed to a candidate so the campaign isn't "taking anything for granted in Mississippi."

If you live in Mississippi, there are number of ways that you can help out right now. Sign up to volunteer to canvass in your neighborhood, make phone calls, become a neighborhood captain, a church captain, or house an out of state volunteer.

Check out MS.BarackObama.com for more news and info from Mississippi.

Local Obama fans gather to 'Barack the Tavern'

Christopher Hass — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 17:33:43 EST

Today's Columbus Dispatch includes an article on a recent grassroots event, organized by local Mississippi Obama supporters through my.BarackObama.com:

The spirited ongoing presidential contest is bringing out its own brand of fellowship among supporters, as organizers for Sen. Barack Obama - some might call them fans - gathered for pizza and beers at a local bar and planned “house parties” along with sign-making workshops in anticipation of the Mississippi primary, they say will likely attract thousands of new voters and put the often overlooked Magnolia State primary in the national spotlight.

“I'm considering Obama just because I believe what he says,” said Ryan Semmes, as he stepped up to the bar at Dave's Darkhorse Tavern Saturday night.

Semmes, 32, and an archivist at the Mississippi State University library was attending a sort of organizational meeting turned meet-and-greet dubbed “Barack the Tavern” where Obama supporters met, talked about campaign strategies and generally, got to know each other.

… As the presidential nominating contest nears the March 4 primary date when large states like Texas and Ohio, along with Rhode Island and Vermont go to the polls, and then Mississippi on March 11, supporters of Obama seem buoyed by his wave of 11 straight primary or caucus wins and what campaign advisers for both Obama and Clinton say is a narrowing race in big states like Texas, where Sen. Clinton of New York once held a stronger lead.

…“I think he's willing to try something different, and do something different, and getting something done is better than not doing anything,” added Darrin Stewart, 22, who is African American and describes himself as an independent Democrat who voted for Haley Barbour in Mississippi's latest governor's race. (Stewart credits Barbour's response during Hurricane Katrina as the reason for his support.)

“This is the first time in my life when I'm actually standing behind someone like I'm standing behind Obama,” added Stewart.
Read the full article . . .

You can find grassroots events in your neighborhood, or sign up for official updates and information:

'Obama campaign opens office in Jackson'

Christopher Hass — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 14:34:56 EST

From the Sun Herald:

Barack Obama's presidential campaign will open an office in downtown Jackson as the Democrat prepares for Mississippi's March 11 primary.

Former Gov. Ray Mabus and U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., are co-chairs of Obama's Mississippi campaign.

Mabus told reporters on a conference call on Monday that nearly 1,000 people have volunteered in Mississippi to assist Obama's presidential bid.

... Mabus said there are many voters who have not committed to a candidate so the campaign isn't "taking anything for granted in Mississippi."
Read the full article . . .

Visit the Jackson headquarters or sign up to volunteer to help spread the word about the Mississippi Primary.

'Mississippi primary: This year is different'

Christopher Hass — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:15:20 EST

From the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal:

On March 11, Mississippians will have a presidential primary, and for the first time in a long while, it will actually mean something.

Mississippi hasn’t had much to say about who the Democratic or Republican nominees for president would be in more than three decades. By the time our primaries or caucuses have come along, the winners have usually long since been decided.

This year is different in Mississippi, as it is across the country. Depending on what happens in Texas and Ohio the week before, our Democratic primary could be pivotal for either Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama …

… Mississippi hasn’t really been in play in a general election since Ronald Reagan beat Jimmy Carter in 1980. The Republican nominee has won every election since, most of them handily.

But this year could be different, given the amazing drawing power of Obama. If he is the nominee and could produce a record African-American turnout, coupled with, say, 20 to 25 percent of the white vote, an Obama general election victory in Mississippi – while still a long shot – isn’t inconceivable.

Read the full article . . .

'Local Obama supporters to hold event'

Christopher Hass — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 21:30:47 EST

From the Hattiesburg American:

A group of loyal Barack Obama supporters are doing what they can to Barack the Vote.

The Barack the Vote group was started to attract people in the Hattiesburg area who agree with the message of the Democratic presidential candidate.

"Our goal is to help get Barack Obama elected," group member Regena Hoye said. "We feel the energy that he is giving. We even have high schoolers working for the campaign, and they can't even vote yet. We have people who are Republicans that are working, which really surprised me."

The group is currently made up of about 20 active members who get together once a week to discuss current political topics and election news.

… Hoye said the group is hoping to add to the momentum created by the recent successes of Obama's campaign.

Included in the group's efforts is an event Saturday to educate people about Obama's message and to supply supporters with bumper stickers, buttons and information about voter registration.

... "If this nomination process continues to draw out, Mississippi could play a key role," said Terry Cassreino, communications director for the Mississippi Democratic Party.

Mississippi's primary is scheduled for March 11.

'Grass-roots giving is reshaping campaign fundraising'

Christopher Hass — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 18:54:34 EST

From the Los Angeles Times:

From his South Texas home, Chuck Barracato watches the news to see how Barack Obama is doing. When Barracato is moved by Obama's message or senses that the Illinois senator could use some help, he digs into his savings and chips in $25 for the candidate's presidential campaign.

Barracato's payments, sent by computer click, add up to $700, maybe a little more. It's not a big sum by the standards of political donations, but it's enough to make Barracato part of a movement that some experts believe is reshaping presidential fundraising.

"I am grass-roots," said Barracato, 68, a retired teacher who has gotten involved in the 2008 presidential campaign because of his opposition to the war in Iraq. "I am the itty-bitty guy behind the movement."

As he battles Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton for the Democratic nomination, Obama -- a onetime Chicago community organizer -- is increasingly relying on donors like Barracato to fuel his campaign.

Lately, the Obama fundraising approach has paid especially big dividends. It is easily outpacing Clinton's money-gathering operation, which began the race with a massive financial advantage and has relied more heavily on traditional big donors.

… The role of small donors is heartening advocates of campaign finance reform. Small donors, by definition, are not insiders seeking special access or favors in exchange for their largesse.

… "There is no question that Obama's fundraising is a huge breakthrough," Eli Pariser said … "Clearly, he has hit this nail on the head in a way that no one has before. He has given people a real sense of ownership that makes them want to chip in."
Read the full article . . .

If you haven't already, now is your chance to become one of over one million people who own a piece of this incredible movement:

'Grass-roots organizing gives Obama an edge'

Christopher Hass — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 15:21:27 EST

From the Los Angeles Times:

The apparent key to Barack Obama's success in the early states could prove a major asset … in pivotal states that will vote in the weeks just ahead.

What gave Obama an edge, his strategists say, was a heavy investment in grass-roots organizing, coupled with support from local politicians and community leaders who lent their personal credibility to a relatively little-known Illinois senator who might have seemed worlds away from the lives of local voters.

…All campaigns try to build grass-roots organizations, especially those of charismatic challengers like Obama. But those efforts, which often rely on neophyte volunteers whose enthusiasm exceeds their political skills, often fade in the stretch.

Obama sought to avoid that problem by organizing intensive regional training camps designed to help his volunteers function with near-professional proficiency.

The costly effort began in the spring of 2007, in part to counter the organizational resources of unions and Democratic Party organizations that were largely committed to Obama's Democratic rival, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York. The precinct-level operations were to employ theories of community organizing Obama practiced in Chicago before getting into electoral politics.

Last April, Obama's national field director, Cuauhtemoc "Temo" Figueroa, wrote an internal memo titled "Turning Enthusiasm into Organization," a blueprint for turning Obama's rock star popularity into a more professional and sustained operation.

The purpose, Figueroa wrote, is to provide supporters with the tools to create "self-sufficient, interdependent teams that take responsibility for all aspects of a campaign within their congressional district."

Thousands of Obama volunteers have gone through training to learn the basics, including how to set up phone banks and outreach operations. Trainers encourage volunteers to set up quasi-independent local offices that tailor a personalized door-to-door pitch based on local circumstances or the latest campaign development.

… Across the wind-swept plains of overwhelmingly rural and white North Dakota, the result was on display as a small army of Obama campaigners, led by 10 full-time professional organizers, began going door to door.

"We have never seen that kind of on-the-ground investment by a presidential campaign here," said Rick Gion, a spokesman for the state Democratic Party. "Door-knocking in the frigid North Dakota winter really makes an impression."

Next door, in northern Minnesota, the towns of the largely worn-out Mesabi Iron Range seemed unpromising territory for Obama. Economically depressed and filled with blue-collar union members and retirees, they have almost all the characteristics of communities where Clinton has run strong.

And, with the backing of government employees' and teachers' unions as well as such legendary Minnesota names as former Vice President Walter F. Mondale, Clinton ran well in "the Range."

But Obama ran stronger. He had a larger field operation and the backing of local politicians who were closer to these voters than their more famous colleagues. Among them were state Rep. Tony Sertich of Chisholm, the majority leader of the State House.

Sertich and other surrogates made a point of describing how, before Obama started at Harvard Law School, he worked with laid-off steelworkers to make sure they got pension and health care benefits.

"It really resonated," Sertich said. "He dealt with a lot of the same issues that we do."

… Right after Super Tuesday, many of Obama's top organizers from the Iowa, Nevada and Colorado caucuses headed to Texas, whose primary includes some features of a caucus. The campaign quickly announced plans to open 10 offices statewide.

Former Gov. Mabus & Congressman Carson: Barack Wins in the Red States

T. Neil Sroka — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 20:22:15 EST

Former Mississippi Gov. Ray Mabus (center) and former Oklahoma Congressman Brad Carson joined former South Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Joe Erwin, who endorsed Barack last week, spoke in the Upstate this morning about Senator Obama's "red state" appeal.

The former Governor of one of the reddest states in the country (one that hasn't voted for a Democratic nominee since 1956), Mabus is backing Barack Obama for President for more than a few reasons.

I'm for Barack Obama for a lot of reasons. One, I think he's got the vision, character, and leadership that can take America where America needs to go and help America live up to its continuing promise. But the second reason is just a pure practical political reason: I think Barack Obama has the best chance of winning in November. He has the best chance of beating whoever the Republican nominee is, and you see it in polling data. Barack Obama appeals to Independents and Republicans.

While Gov. Mabus' point about Independent and Republican interest in Barack Obama certainly plays out in the numbers, it also means, Mabus noted, that a Republican nominee would have to fight for "every single vote, in every single state," rather than just counting on more traditionally conservative states -- states like Mississippi and South Carolina -- to go his way without effort.

Former Congressman Carson backed up Gov. Mabus thoughts by noting the powerful, positive effect a nominee with the ability to win over Republican and Independent voters would have on Democrats running for down-ballot, state and local elected positions.

I've talked to people in the State legislature of my home state and I've talked to people that are hoping to run for office and they all agree on one thing: "That our best chance to win in difficult territories, like Oklahoma, is to have a candidate, like Barack Obama, who wants to turn the page of the past twenty years of divisive, polarizing, and gridlocked politics."

Barack Obama, Fmr. Congressman Carson concluded, is one of the few politicians who is able bridge an almost impossible range of racial, political, and geographic divides and get the support of people who thought they'd never vote for a Democrat.

I've talked to people and they haven't voted for a Democratic candidate in ten, twenty, sometimes thirty years, and they say to me, 'You know, if Obama is the nominee, I think I will vote Democratic this time'...I come from a place where Democrats find a tough going many times and Barack Obama is the person who can break through that wall of indifference that so many people show to Democratic party...So, I think when people in South Carolina look around and ask, "Who can win this race?" I believe that, in the places I come from [and places like South Carolina], Senator Barack Obama is the right candidate to do just that.

Why Terry Gives

Alexandra MacCallum — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 13:21:02 EDT

I just spoke with Terry, from Ocean Springs, Mississippi about why he gives to the campaign. He doesn't give a huge number, but he gives often. In a thick Mississippi accent, the Vietnam veteran told me why he gives, and why he thinks Barack is just what America needs.

Terry on why he donates:

One thing that we've got to do early is donate. They have these quarterly reports, and I think it's important that we have a good showing. Most people watch the news media and think Hillary's ahead and we don't have a chance to win, and I want them to think he does have chance.

On why he supports Barack:

I've read the Audacity of Hope – I think that's it the message of hope, period.

All we need is someone with intelligence, someone who can make decisions. What this nation needs right now – I am an old Vietnam vet – I remember when John Kennedy was elected. He said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." JFK had a magic, charisma. He brought this country together. That's what Barack can do.

On supporting Barack in Mississippi:

I'm in Mississippi – we're pretty much written off. This state has been conceded to GOP so I try to support Senators and Congressmen – candidates in other areas in hopes that we can gain a majority in the Congress or in the Senate or the Presidency.

Check out Terry's MyBO profile here. And donate and submit your own story here.