ND 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, North Dakota

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:51:25 EST

Video: Election Night Speech in Grant Park

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:06:07 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.

North Dakota: Polls Open 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Erik Weber — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:18:14 EST

In North Dakota, polls are open today from 9:00 AM until 7:00 PM local time. 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?

Acceptable forms of identification must include a street address. PO boxes do not establish residency and cannot be accepted.

Acceptable forms of identification with residential addresses are:

Valid driver’s license
Valid state identification card
Valid federally issued identification card, such as a passport or agency identification card
Valid tribal government issued identification card
Valid student identification card
Valid United States military identification card
Utility bill dated 30 days prior to Election Day with name and residential address
Change of address verification letter from the U.S. Postal Service

If you do not have one of the forms of identification listed above, you still have the right to vote if:

An election poll worker is able to vouch for your identity and residence
You complete a voter’s affidavit on which you certify, under oath, your identity and that you are a resident within this precinct

What time will the polls be open on November 4?

Polls open sometime between 7am and 9am and close sometime between 7pm and 8pm, depending on your county. Most are open from 9am–7pm. It is best to check with your local election official for exact times.

What about voters with disabilities?

If you are a disabled voter you may be accompanied by, and receive assistance from, another person of your choice in the voting booth, unless the person is an employer, officer or agent of your union, a candidate running in that election, or a relative of a candidate. The polling place building should have several routes through it, and sufficient signs should be in place to direct you to the most accessible route to the polling location.

North Dakota Call Team: We need 800 more calls

Erik Weber — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 19:31:39 EDT

On Wednesday, the North Dakota Call Team reached their call goal by making almost 400 calls in seven days. This is a great achievement, but we have a lot of work left to do as we had into the most important weekend of the election.

From now until Election Day, we are asking North Dakota to make at least 800 more calls to help Get Out the Vote in battleground states. This means that we need everyone to step up and try to make more phone calls than ever before during these last five days.

In a recent conference call, Iowa's Deputy Field Director, Ann Dailey, talked about why your calls are so critical as we try to bring this election home for Barack. You can listen to this highlight below.

"Let's get to work"

Erik Weber — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 12:29:12 EDT

After two years of hard work and dedication, we have three days left before America chooses the next president. We've come too far to let up now. Real change will not come easy, so we need everyone to pull together and get involved in our Get Out The Vote efforts happening all across the country.

In a speech on Monday in Ohio, Barack clearly defined what's at stake in this election, and asked all of us to stand and fight with him during these final days.

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.

In one weeks time, we can choose an economy that rewards work and creates new jobs and fuels prosperity from the bottom up. In one week, we can choose to invest in health care for our families and education for our kids, and renewable energy for our future. In one week, we can choose hope over fear, and unity over division, the promise of change over the power of the status quo. In one week, we can come together as one nation and one people and once more choose our better history.

That's what's at stake. That's what we're fighting for. And if in this last week you'll knock on some doors for me, and make some calls for me, and talk to your neighbors and convince your friends, if you'll stand with me and fight with me and give me your vote, then I promise you, we will not just win Ohio. We will win this general election and together we'll change this country and we will change the world. God bless you. God bless the United States of America. Let's get to work.

Barack needs our help in order to bring about the change we need. So, sign up now to make calls from home, attend a phonebanking event near you, or travel to a battleground state.

Thursday: Join in a Conference Call with Campaign Staffers

Erik Weber — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 19:24:18 EDT

On Thursday, October 30th, at 7:30pm CDT, North Dakota 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.

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: 718-709-0659

Access Code: 690-655-339

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

http://my.barackobama.com/webinar28

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. We have six days left to make a difference that will impact the next four years.

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.

North Dakota Call Challenge: "No one has ever said, 'I wish I'd done less'"

Erik Weber — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 12:29:14 EDT

Last week, we challenged the North Dakota Call Team to make 1,000 calls in seven days to help get out the vote in Minnesota and North Dakota. After three days, we still have over 900 calls to make.

We need everyone to step up and do their part to make sure we reach our goal. If each of you can find even an hour each night to make calls, North Dakota could help make the difference in this historic election.

On Thursday night, Montana's Field Director Carrie Glenn gave an inspiring call to action for all the callers out there using Neighbor to Neighbor to make phone calls from home, or for anyone still hesitating to pick up the phone.

You can listen to it below:

If you haven't done calls before, I'm gonna ask you to pick up the phone and make a couple more than you really think you have time to do. 'Cause no one's even woken up on November 5th and said, 'I wish I'd done less.' We've got less than two weeks right now to actually make this happen and it's got to be a little bit more than you think you can do. If you've been doing a hundred calls a week, that's incredible, thank you so much for that. We need you to do 200. If you've never made a phone call before, we need you to make 100...

The work we do in this final week will decide what direction we take this country in the next four years. We only have eight days left to make a difference.

North Dakota: Pick up the phone and make a difference

Erik Weber — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:03:45 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.

The clock is running out in this historic presidential election, and in North Dakota, where the race has been tighenting up, you can reach out into your own communities, as well as into neighboring Minnesota, another key battleground. This election is too important to not give everything we can before Election Day.

Earlier this month, Minnesota Field Director Jaclyn Urness joined in a conference call with North Dakota volunteers who have been using Neighbor to Neighbor to make phone calls from home. Jaclyn stressed the need to stay focused no matter what the pollsters might say, as we look to run through the finish line at full speed.

You can listen to highlights of the call below:

Your calls from out of state allow in-state staff and volunteers to focus on face-to-face, door-to-door voter contact. The key to any ground effort is clear goals, and in order to reach our voter contact goal on the ground, we're counting on supporters in North Dakota to make 1,000 calls within the next seven days.

Almost two years of work comes down to these last two weeks, but we know what we need to do to win.

Jill Biden Wants You to Make Calls

Erik Weber — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:22:57 EDT

Last week, Jill Biden stopped by the Obama-Biden Headquarters in Chicago to make calls using our Neighbor to Neighbor online tool.

After contacting voters in Pennsylvania, Jill urged everyone to sign up for Neighbor to Neighbor and make calls into key battleground states.

These calls will play an essential role here in these final two weeks, as they provide important information to field organizers and volunteer team leaders on the ground in battleground states.

To help you encourage your friends and family to get involved, click here for information on how to host your very own phonebank event. You can find links to training videos, as well as plenty of other tips to help you host a successful event. Making calls with others is a fun and effective way to maximize your impact.

With just two weeks left until Election Day, we need everyone to get involved and start calling voters and make sure people get out and vote for change this November.

Neighbor to Neighbor: Reach Out and Make a Difference

Erik Weber — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 11:13:34 EDT

Barack Obama believes that real change must happen from the bottom up, as ordinary people stand together to do extraordinary things. In this election, simple voter to voter contact will make the biggest difference in helping elect the next president.

The most effective way to spread Barack's message of change is through ordinary people reaching out to their neighbors and talking one on one about the issues we face in America. Our Neighbor to Neighbor tool makes it easy to get in touch with voters in crucial battleground states:

No matter where you live, you can make a huge impact in this election. If you can make calls anytime between now and Election Day, sign up now and make a commitment to join this grassroots movement for change.

Final Debate Watch Parties

Erik Weber — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:27:26 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:

http://my.barackobama.com/debate-watch-party

Thanks,

Jon

Jon Carson
National Field Director
Obama for America

Wednesday: Join in a Conference Call with Campaign Staffers

Erik Weber — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:15:20 EDT

On Wednesday, October 8th, at 7:30pm CDT, North Dakota 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: 159887988

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

http://my.barackobama.com/webinar6

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.

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

Women's Week Continues

Becky Furgason — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:21:49 EDT

Women's Weekend of Action kicks off today with Women to Women Phone Banks held at each of the 11 Campaign for Change offices and continues through the weekend with Women for Obama House Parties; hosted by women for women.

Women's Weekend of Action Schedule
Thursday, September 18th
4:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Women for Obama Statewide Phone Bank Night
Join women supporters in your local field office to call undecided women.
Find your local office
Thursday, September 18th - Sunday, September 21st
Women for Obama House Parties
Hosted by women for women
House Parties Thursday, September 18th
The Hub Cafe (Rugby, ND)
215 Highway 2 SW
7:00 p.m.
House Parties Friday, September 19th
The home of Lois Schneider (Fargo, ND)
1117 3rd Ave S
5:00 p.m.
House Parties Saturday, September 20th
Campaign for Change HQ (Williston, ND)
205 Main Street
9:00 a.m.
Home of Delcie Light (Devils Lake, ND)
2326 14th Ave SW
2:00 p.m.
Home of Carolyn Nelson (Fargo, ND)
1 2nd St S Apt 5-402
3:00 p.m.
Dan and Francoise Buchanan's Home (Jamestown, ND)
216 15th Ave NW
4:00 p.m.
The Home of Sarah Vogel (Bismarck, ND)
1203 N 2nd St
4:00 p.m.
House Parties Sunday, September 21st
The Home of Carol Christianson (Bismarck, ND)
1731 Hamburg Dr
3:00 p.m.
Wolf Residence (Minot, ND)
1420 78th St SE
4:00 p.m.
Keeley House (Grafton, ND)
7187 Highway 81

Join North Dakota Women's Weekend of Action Today!

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...

Senator Conrad on John McCain Statement

Becky Furgason — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:11:14 EDT

Statement of Senator Kent Conrad (D-ND) on John McCain saying "the
fundamentals of the economy are strong."

“John McCain is simply out of touch when it comes to the economy. How else do you explain the fact he thinks “the fundamentals of the economy are strong?”
“The reality is America’s economy is far from strong, and families in North Dakota and across the nation are feeling the crush from the current economic crisis each and every day. They are feeling the effects of eight years of a reckless economic policy by the Bush Administration – a policy embraced by Senator McCain.
“These are challenging times and we need new leadership to get America’s economy back on track. We need Barack Obama, who if elected president, will work to change a broken financial system and restore our country's prosperity.”

Attend a Women to Women Phone Bank This Thursday

Becky Furgason — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:49:13 EDT

Women across the state are coming together this Thursday, September 18th at Campaign for Change offices across the state to reach out to their fellow women in North Dakota.

Women to Women phone banks will be held at each of the 11 Campaign for Change offices in the state and run from 4:00 pm - 8:30 pm this Thursday.

Barack Obama and Joe Biden stand behind the women of North Dakota, they support the issues that matter most to them and we need you to come help us get that important message out.

Women were granted the right to vote in 1920 at the urging of Democratic President Woodrow Wilson and they have made the difference in every election since. This election will certainly be no different. Sign up today to reach out to women on Thursday.

Maria Cantwell Speaks to North Dakota Women

Becky Furgason — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:30:44 EDT

Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) hosted a forum on issues important to women voters in Grand Forks Sunday followed by a Women Small Business Owners roundtable in Fargo Monday morning. At the forum on Sunday, Senator Cantwell listened to women from the Grand Forks area who spoke of the challenges they face balancing work and family and discussed the Obama-Biden plan to support working women and their families.

"The choice here between Barack Obama and Joe Biden and the other ticket is so stark when it comes to the issues that working women and women at home care about." She believes the fact that North Dakota does not require voter registration provides an incredible opportunity for women in the state to help shape the outcome of this election.

On the issue of social security, she said,

"Social Security has been a stronghold for people to know that in retirement, in the loss of health or in the loss of work opportunities, that they will have a program that they've paid into that will benefit them in retirement. Why should women care about this? Women should care about this because they live longer"

Senator Maria Cantwell Kicks Off Women's Week

Becky Furgason — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 21:39:25 EDT

Maria Cantwell (D-WA) was in North Dakota today to campaign for Senator Obama. In addition to holding a forum on women's issues, she joined Campaign for Change staff and volunteers to kick off a week-long series of events the campaign will be holding to focus on issues important to women in North Dakota.

Today, Senator Cantwell kicked off a volunteer canvass at the Grand Forks Campaign office and later in the evening, she was in Fargo to speak to volunteers prior to a Sunday evening canvassing drive. She talked about the importance of knocking on doors, talking to your friends and telling them "it's time to change the direction of our country and that Barack Obama is the person who's going to do that."

Ms Cantwell said she has "faith and confidence that Barack Obama's priorities are the right priorities for North Dakota," and was surprised and excited to see the field effort that has already been established in the state on behalf of Barack,

"Today's effort is just another commitment by Senator Obama to say how much he cares about North Dakota, because if you care about North Dakota now, you're certainly going to care about North Dakota when you're in the White House. And so I really appreciate that he's putting the time and energy into understanding the issues here and to make the commitment to work hard with the people of this state."

In the spirit of Women's Week, she also talked about issues important to women in North Dakota, such as Social Security, pay equality, education, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), as well as energy and the need for us as a nation to reduce our dependency on foreign sources for our energy needs,

"When I look at this transition we have to make, I want a new leader with new ideas, with a vision for the future, particularly on energy, who's going to get us off our dependence on Middle East oil"

On Monday, Senator Cantwell will hold a roundtable with women small business owners in Fargo. The discussion will focus on Senator Obama's plan to support North Dakota's working women.

Two New Offices Open in Rugby and Valley City

Becky Furgason — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:49:10 EDT

Barack Obama's Campaign for Change now has offices open in Rugby and Valley City, bringing the total to 11 office locations, further expanding grassroots organizing efforts in North Dakota.

The Rugby office is located at 607 Highway 2 SW and the Valley City Office is located at 150 2nd St SW.

The offices are open seven day per week, so stop by to find out how you can get involved.

North Dakota Campaign for Change Regional Field Offices

North Dakota Republicans Side With Obama Plan To Invest In Renewable Energy

Becky Furgason — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 08:32:57 EDT

Like Obama-Biden, North Dakotans Back Ethanol, Comprehensive Approach to Solving Energy Crisis

As families in North Dakota and across the country struggle with soaring energy costs, Senator McCain and the GOP are refusing to take bold steps to invest in renewable sources of energy such as ethanol. By contrast, Barack Obama and Joe Biden will provide short-term relief to American families, invest in renewable sources of energy, and help create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.

Last week, John McCain and his party's platform called for an end to a program that promotes important investments in renewable fuels like ethanol that are good for North Dakota's economy and are critical to ending our nation's dependence on foreign oil. North Dakota Republicans disagreed with McCain's position and seemed to side with the Obama plan to make the kind of significant investments in renewable energy and that are good for North Dakota and in the long-term interests of America.

Obama's Plan to Boost Biofuels and Fight Our Dependence on Foreign Oil

A Long Record of Support for Ethanol and Advanced Biofuels. Thanks to a law Barack Obama championed, gas stations are now eligible for tax credits for installing E85 ethanol refueling pumps. The tax credit covers 30 percent of the costs of switching petroleum pumps. Obama also sponsored legislation requiring oil companies that made at least $1 billion in profits in the first quarter of 2006 to invest at least 1 percent of their total reported first quarter 2006 profits into installing E85 pumps. Obama also introduced legislation with Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS) to require 2 billion gallons of alternative diesels, including biodiesel, to be produced domestically by 2015.

Develop the Next Generation of Sustainable Biofuels and Infrastructure. Advances in biofuels, including cellulosic ethanol, biobutenol and other new technologies that produce synthetic petroleum from sustainable feedstocks offer tremendous potential to break our addiction to oil. Barack Obama will work to ensure that these clean alternative fuels are developed and incorporated into our national supply as soon as possible. He will require at least 60 billion gallons of advanced biofuels by 2030. Obama will invest federal resources, including tax incentives and government contracts into developing the most promising technologies and building the infrastructure to support them.

Mandate All New Vehicles are Flexible Fuel Vehicles. Sustainably-produced biofuels can create jobs, protect the environment and help end oil addiction - but only if Americans drive cars that will take such fuels. General Motors is the largest producer of flexible fuel vehicles in the United States, and Obama will work with Congress and auto companies to ensure that all new vehicles have FFV capability - the capability by the end of his first term in office.

Volunteer Spotlight

Becky Furgason — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:48:41 EDT

Barack Obama often says, "change doesn't happen from the top down, it happens from the bottom up," his grassroots campaign is living proof of that. All across North Dakota people are getting involved to help bring change to America.

Charlie Bolte is a recent high school graduate who plans to enter into military service with the Navy later this year. In the interim he volunteers at the Minot Campaign for Change office several times per week, making calls for hours on end, spreading Barack's message of hope and change to his fellow North Dakotans.

Charlie says he has always considered himself a Democrat and has supported Barack from the start. Charlies decision to support Barack is largely based on the role of the President in appointing Supreme Court Justices and shaping foreign policy. He feels Obama will have "a more open-minded approach to foreign policy instead of just committing blindly to one policy approach over another."

It is because of volunteers like Charlie that the field campaign is doing so well here in North Dakota. Like Charlie, the vast majority of volunteers in this campaign have never been involved politically before, but have been inspired and empowered by their desire for change and their recognition that they can do something about it.

If you are not already involved, now is the time. There are only 56 days left and there is a lot of work to be done. Everyone of you is needed and each one of you can make a difference. Sign up online to volunteer or stop by a regional field office to find out how you can make a difference.

A Champion for First Americans

Becky Furgason — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 13:14:47 EDT

For the past two months, volunteers and Campaign for Change organizers have been attending pow wows, marching in parades, and participating in a host of other events in tribal communities and on tribal college campuses across the state; a trend that will continue for the next two months. They, most recently, marched in the United Tribes parade yesterday in downtown Bismarck and have a booth set up all weekend long at the United Tribes International Pow Wow. In addition to passing out literature, signs and stickers, volunteers manning the booth are there to answer questions and provide information about Barack and his plans for First Americans' issues.

Micki Lindeman is a student at United Tribes Technical College. Outside of volunteering at the Pow Wow booth, she has been helping to get fellow students involved and educated about Obama. Micki became an Obama supporter after reading his book "Dreams of My Father", prior to his presidential run. She has been following his career and campaign, and remains an avid supporter today. Like many of her fellow students, Micki is concerned about the future of her tribal college and she believes Obama's plan will not leave tribal colleges out as has been the case for years.

"Our college's President has had to fight for funding for the past seven years because we've been left out of the budget. That's kind of scary when you're going to a tribal college, to wonder if it's going to be there the next year. And then this year our President was invited to speak at the Democratic National Convention. It's a huge difference!"

Photos from this weekend

The hundreds of Indian tribes in America face a unique set of challenges. Issues like sovereignty, health care, and education—issues that are central to tribes’ future prosperity and embedded in the federal government’s responsibility—are often neglected. Barack Obama is committed to tribal nation building and enforcing the federal government’s obligations to Indian people.

North Dakota First Americans for Obama, directed by Standing Rock Nation native Jodi Gillette, is committed to getting that message out to the tribal communities in North Dakota.

Five New Locations to Choose From

Becky Furgason — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 22:33:08 EDT

Last night the North Dakota Campaign for Change opened five new offices in North Dakota, bringing the total number of offices across the state to nine and further expanding grassroots organizing efforts on behalf of Senator Obama. The new offices are located in Devils Lake, Williston, Dickinson, Jamestown and a second regional office in Fargo. The excitement of the new locations brought North Dakotans out in droves to attend the grand opening celebrations and to discuss grassroots efforts in their area.

The offices will serve as central organizing locations for campaign activities and grassroots outreach in the area. Open 7 days a week, the offices are a place where North Dakotans can get engaged in volunteer activities and where voters can learn more about Senator Obama, Senator Biden and their agenda to deliver the change we need.

Visit one of the new office locations today!

Fargo
745 45th St. S
Suite B

Jamestown
Buffalo City Mall
Highway 281 S & 25th St SW

Dickinson
41 E. Villard St.
Suite B

Devils Lake
303 5th Ave

Williston
205 Main St.

Visit ND.BarackObama.com/NDOffices for more information on these and other office locations in North Dakota.

Congressman Pomeroy Speaks to Students

Becky Furgason — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:11:42 EDT

College Democrats teamed up with Obama's Campaign for Change this week to host two events with Congressman Earl Pomeroy. Dozens of students showed up to eat and to hear what their elected officials had to say about the political process and this year's election.

In addition to Earl, District 42 State House candidates Cory Mock and Bruce Stanford, State Senate candidate Mac Schneider, and Public Service Commission candidate Cheryl Bergian were on hand to talk to students at the University of North Dakota on Wednesday.

While most of the speakers focused on the rising cost of education, Congressman Pomeroy included energy, the economy and foreign policy in his discussion. He stressed the impact the youth vote can and will have on the outcome of the election here in North Dakota and, consequently, the impact it will have on the national outcome.
Read more >>

Five New Offices Opening this Friday in North Dakota

Becky Furgason — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:08:34 EDT

With the growing support and growing staff, Campaign for Change is adding five new regional field offices to the four currently open and plans to possibly open more.

Since July they have had offices open in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, and Minot and this Friday, September 5th, they are opening new offices in Devils Lake, Dickinson, Jamestown, Williston, and a second office in Fargo.

The new office locations, many of them in rural areas, will provide more people with access to campaign staff and more opportunities to get involved.

Please click here for more information and to RSVP for one of these events

You can find all North Dakota offices on the Office Locationspage.

North Dakota Republicans for Obama

Becky Furgason — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 20:41:58 EDT

Obama for America today announced "North Dakota Republicans for Obama," an organization of committed North Dakota Republicans who are supporting Senator Obama. The organization will spearhead efforts to mobilize support for Barack Obama among Republicans in North Dakota. Senator Obama has developed a broad coalition of support among Democrats, Republicans and Independents in North Dakota who have responded to his message of bringing America together to deliver the change we need.

"I've been a Republican my entire life, but I strongly believe that Senator Obama is a leader who will get our country back on the right track," said Ellen Dehn, a retired small business owner from Hatton, ND. "With the challenges that our middle class families are facing here in North Dakota, this election presents a clear choice: more of the same failed economic policies of the Bush administration or the change we need."

Republicans for Obama is dedicated to the ideal that while we may call ourselves Democrats and Republicans, we are Americans first.

The initial membership of North Dakota Republicans for Obama includes, among others, a Registered Nurse, a former Truck Driver, an Insurance Agent, a Waitress, a Teacher and a retired Postal Worker. While each has their own reasons for supporting the Democratic candidate in this election, they all agree that change needs to be brought to Washington and that Barack Obama and Joe Biden are the ones who can and will bring that change.

All North Dakota Republicans who agree that change needs to be brought to Washington are welcome and encouraged to join. You can learn more about where Barack stands on the issues and sign up to join North Dakota Republicans for Obama at ND.BarackObama.com/ndrepublicans.

This Week on Campus

Becky Furgason — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 11:24:02 EDT

Students for Obama is one of the largest grassroots student organizations in history thanks to the passion and dedication of thousands of students across the country.
Barack has called young people the "backbone" of this campaign and they need every student in North Dakota getting involved; whether you're in High School or College, you can have a major impact on the outcome of this election.

Campaign for Change is co-hosting two events this week with local college Democrats featuring special guest North Dakota Congressman Earl Pomeroy.

Wednesday, September 3rd, Congressman Pomeroy will be on the campus of the University of North Dakota to join students for burgers and s'mores and to speak to them about Barack Obama and the importance of political participation. District 42 State House candidates Cory Mock and Bruce Stanford will be attending the BBQ as well as State Senate candidate Mac Schneider.

The event is planned to begin at 3:30 PM and run for about an hour and a half. Those interested in attending should plan to meet at the Wilkerson Gazebo located outside of Wilkerson Dining Center on campus.

The following day, Thursday, September 4th, Campaign for Change is teaming up with the NDSU College Democrats and Congress Pomeroy for an Ice Cream Social to be held at the Babbling Brook on the NDSU campus in Fargo and is scheduled to begin at 3:30 PM.

Ali Ness, head of the NDSU College Democrats will be introducing Congressman Pomeroy who is scheduled to speak at 4:00 PM. Cheryl Bergian who is currently running for the office of Public Service Commissioner will be attending both events.

Come on out, get some free food, meet some new people and hear Congressman Pomeroy speak. An RSVP is not required, but is recommended.

RSVP for the UND BBQ on Wednesday

RSVP for the NDSU Ice Cream Social on Thursday

Campaign for Change is currently looking for fall interns. It's a great way to spend your fall internship and earn college course credits. You will also learn more about the political process while meeting new people and having a great time. Apply for an internship today!

Weekend of Action Begins Tomorrow

Becky Furgason — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:57:05 EDT

Last night an estimated 38 million people tuned in to watch Barack accept the Democratic nomination. Campaign for Change and Obama supporters hosted numerous House Parties across North Dakota and across America that gave people the opportunity to gather together and share the moment with their community.

This is only the beginning, though, and the campaign is kicking it off with a Weekend of Action this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.

Campaign for Change staff and volunteers will be out walking and knocking on doors; reaching out to North Dakota voters and spreading Barack’s message across the state.

The Democratic National Convention created a huge momentum and we need to seize that momentum to mobilize as many voters as possible, starting this weekend.

Your Support and enthusiasm fuels this movement. Come help us continue to build the amazing strength of this grassroots movement.

Find the Weekend of Action event nearest you

Watch Barack's acceptance speech

Organizing for Change

Becky Furgason — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:16:21 EDT

Tomorrow, millions will be watching Barack Obama accept the Democratic Nomination. People across North Dakota and across America will be attending Convention Watch Parties and planning for the Nationwide Weekend of Action that will take place this Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Here in North Dakota, there are nearly 60 House parties planned for Thursday evening and over 100 events planned for the Labor Day weekend. These events are taking place all across the state of North Dakota; from Williston to Wahpeton, from Bottineau to Bismarck. To find the House Party or Weekend of Action event near you, visit ND.BarackObama.com/organizeforchange-bg

This is your opportunity to get involved, this is your moment, seize it!

Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes TC Speaks at the DNC

Becky Furgason — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:42:14 EDT

From the Jamestown Sun:

The president of United Tribes Technical College told delegates to the Democratic National Convention that American Indians are not just another special interest group.
David Gipp, a member of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe, spoke to the convention Tuesday night.
"Every step you take across this great nation, every vista you admire, every city you call by its tribal name, was once Indian Country," he said in his speech. "We paid for our place in advance, with land and blood."
Gipp, who has been the president of the two-year Bismarck college since 1977, said Indian reservations have become pockets of poverty where health care is a disaster, schools need repair and law enforcement officers lack resources.
"American Indians are still here and we're seeking justice for our people," Gipp told the delegates. "We offer the strengths of our spirituality and our connection with Mother Earth in renewing America's promise for all."

Click the image below to watch David Gipp's speech

Click here to read Dr. Gipp's remarks as prepared for delivery

Watch Amanda Kubik Speak at the DNC

Becky Furgason — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 17:38:09 EDT

Last night Amanda Kubik, a Young Delegate from North Dakota spoke at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, CO.

If you missed Amanda's speech last night or would like to watch it again, click on the image below.

Dr. Gipp Chosen as one of the Event's "Everyday Americans" to Address the Convention

Becky Furgason — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:49:31 EDT

TONIGHT: North Dakotan Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes Technical College, to Speak Before Democratic National Convention

On the second day of the Democratic National Convention, between 4:00 – 5:00 PM CT, Tuesday, August 26, 2008, North Dakotan Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes Technical College, will speak before the Democratic National Convention. Native American educator, David Gipp of North Dakota, has spent more than three decades working towards the development of tribal colleges. Gipp is also an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Hunkpapa Lakota (Sioux) Tribe.

Over the last few years, Barack Obama has joined with Americans in every state in this country in a positive campaign for change. The stories of the people he has met throughout this long campaign have inspired Barack Obama and helped to shape the policies he will promote as President. Dr. Gipp was one of a handful of speakers selected to be part of the nightly program who come from across the nation, but they are all brought together through their personal stories, which address real life challenges.

WHO: Dr. David Gipp, President of United Tribes Technical College and enrolled member of the Standing Rock Hunkpapa Lakota (Sioux) Tribe.
WHERE: Democratic National Convention, Denver, CO
WHEN: Between approximately 4:00 - 5:00 PM CT

Young Delegate from North Dakota Speaks at DNC

Becky Furgason — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:40:45 EDT

The following is a transcript of a speech, as prepared for delivery, by Amanda Kubik, at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, CO on Monday, August 25, 2008:

I am Amanda Kubik. In 1997 I was a high school sophomore in North Dakota. That spring, the Red River flooded its banks and devastated Fargo and Grand Forks. In our saddest and soggiest hour, I saw my generation, my friends, come to life. We’ve moved on from filling sandbags to raising money for a myriad of causes, to signing up for AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. And even serving our country in Iraq and Afghanistan. We feel a sense of urgency to make this country the America we grew up believing in. So when I hear that people doubt the impact of young people, I know they don’t know our powerful potential. But Senator Obama knows. Before the caucuses, the campaign sent staffers to North Dakota. That had never happened before. That team engaged young people, tapping into our potential. Until then, we were unregarded and the result was voter apathy among us. That has changed. Thanks to Barack Obama, young people got involved and found our voices. Across the nation, thousands of students and young professionals are uniting on campuses and in coffee shops, organizing, speaking out and running for local office. We are making our change visible. The victory of Barack Obama and Joe Biden in November may be the first presidential election where the youth vote and our activism play a decisive role, but I guarantee it won’t be the last. We are a generation who grew up believing yes, we can do anything, or as we sometimes say up in Fargo, “Ya sure, ya betcha.” For the better, we young patriots will change our country, and Barack Obama is the change we need to do it.

TONIGHT: North Dakotan Amanda Kubik to Speak Before Democratic National Convention

Becky Furgason — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:17:33 EDT

DENVER, CO – On opening night of the Democratic National Convention, at between approximately 5:30 – 6:00 CT, Monday, August 25, 2008, North Dakotan Amanda Kubik will speak before the Democratic National Convention. Kubik, 27, is the youngest member of the North Dakotan delegation to the convention and will speak about youth issues and involvement in this year’s election.

WHO: Amanda Kubik, Fargo native and Youngest Member of the North Dakota delegation
WHERE: Democratic National Convention, Denver, CO
WHEN: Between Approximately 5:30 - 6:00 PM CT

New Rural Committee Formed

Becky Furgason — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:34:52 EDT

"If America wants change, and I believe it does, we're going to have to do a lot of work between now and election day to manifest that desire for change. We have the opportunity in the next 2 1/2 months to make that change happen." -- ND Senator Byron Dorgan

The Obama Campaign Wednesday announced the creation of "Rural Leaders for Obama," a committee of 40 rural residents of North Dakota, including farmers, teachers, and elected officials from rural communities across the State. The Rural Leaders will lead a statewide effort to communicate to North Dakota's rural communities Barack Obama's plan to strengthen rural America.

The announcement of the committee followed the beginning of the Obama campaign's rural tour in North Dakota, which kicked off with a roundtable discussion in Dickinson with undecided rural voters and Obama supporters, and led by Congressman Earl Pomeroy. The tour continued Wednesday with a roundtable discussion in Bismarck and was followed with events later in the week in Valley City, Jamestown and Minot.

Welcome Joe Biden

Becky Furgason — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 09:57:54 EDT

The text has gone out and it is now official, Barack has chosen Joe Biden to be his running mate.

Please take a moment to share your story with and welcome Joe to the team.

We will share with Joe some of your stories and make sure he gets to know the amazing people who have made this movement possible.

Don't miss the first Obama-Biden rally today at 2:00 pm central time. You can watch it live at www.barackobama.com

Seven Houses

Becky Furgason — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:53:59 EDT

The Obama Campaign, today, launched an ad highlighting how out of touch John McCain is with the struggles of everyday Americans:

John McCain said in an interview yesterday that he’s lost track of how many houses he has.

Think about that: he actually has so many houses that he can’t remember how many he owns.

Every day that goes by, Senator McCain shows just how out of touch he is with the struggles of everyday people—whether it’s offering billions more in tax breaks for the oil companies or declaring that multimillionaires are members of the middle class.

We can’t afford another president who is so far out of touch.

That’s why it’s so important to tell your friends, family, and neighbors more about Barack – who he is and where he stands on the issues that matter most to North Dakotans.

You can make a difference right now by writing a letter to the editor of your local paper and sharing with your community why John McCain is simply out-of-touch with the struggles of everyday people and why Barack is right on the economy and right for North Dakota.

Our online tool makes it easier than ever to make your voice heard. Make a difference and write a letter to the editor today.

Farm Bill Discussion At Local Family Farm

Becky Furgason — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:54:56 EDT

On Friday, August 15, 2008, farmer-legislators State Representative Chris Griffin (D-ND) and State Senator Keith Langseth (D-MN) joined family farmers Jacob Gust and Barbara Olive at their farm outside of Fargo to discuss, with local and agricultural media, Senator Barack Obama's plan to protect upper Midwestern farmers.

Speaking first, Senator Langseth noted that the Farm Bill is the single most important item a President will have influence over that affects people here in the Red River Valley. He said that between 2001 and 2007 the economic impact of the Farm Bill was indisputable, enabling farmers to receive vital support for rural facilities, housing, water and waste water, nutrition and commodity, conservation, and disaster. After stating that Barack Obama supports the Farm Bill and strong policies that will benefit rural America, he turned it over to Representative Griffin.

Be a Part of the Team

Becky Furgason — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:30:51 EDT

Campaign for Change is currently working to build their North Dakota Campaign for Change Obama Teams. The Obama Teams will more fully empower volunteers who wish to take on a larger role with the campaign. The Obama Teams will work closely with Campaign for Change staff to recruit and manage volunteers as well as reach out to North Dakota voters by making phone calls and knocking on doors using the Neighbor to Neighbor online tool.

They are looking to put teams in place statewide with each team consisting of five different roles: The Team Leader coordinates the team and communicates with the organizer. The phone bank captain will be responsible for phone banks while the canvassing captain will be responsible for canvasses. The data/staging captain is responsible for entering data and may be asked to assist in locating staging areas for canvasses and phone banks. And no team is complete without team members. Team members will participate in canvasses and/or phone banks helping to recruit new team members and reach out to voters. All teams are provided with the training and support they will need to do their job effectively.

Today, one such training took place at the Campaign for Change office in Fargo, led by Campaign for Change staff and attended by nine volunteers eager to learn how they can help not only Barack Obama win the White House, but help all North Dakota Democratic candidates up and down the ticket.

Most Campaign for Change trainings and meetings kick off by allowing attendees to introduce themselves, share why they support Senator Obama and what has inspired them to become involved; this training was no exception, neither was the variety of reason for their support and involvement.

North Dakotan Picked as one of 10 Voters Nationwide to Go Backstage with Barack

Becky Furgason — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:22:48 EDT

Press Release

FARGO, ND— The presidential campaign of U.S. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) announced today the 10 voters who will be “Backstage with Barack” at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. The 10 people chosen from supporters across the country will be flown to Denver with a guest to meet Senator Obama backstage at INVESCO Field at Mile High on the final night of the convention.
Kayla Whitaker, 20, of Fargo, North Dakota, first became interested in politics last November when she learned about Barack Obama. An Evangelical Christian, Kayla was interested in learning more about Senator Obama’s faith, and watched Obama’s “Call to Renewal” speech about religion and politics on the website. Barack Obama’s commitment to his faith and his open mind about changing our world inspired her, for the first time in her life, to become involved in politics. A college student, Kayla’s top issues in this election are healthcare, education, and clean energy.

Join Campaign for Change Thursday, August 28th at one of the many Convention Watch Parties taking place around the state.

For more information on attending or hosting a Convention Watch Party, visit my.barackobama.com

Be the First to Know Barack's VP

Becky Furgason — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 20:26:27 EDT

Today, Campaign Manager David Plouffe sent out the following email:

Barack Obama is about to make one of the most important decisions of this campaign -- choosing a running mate.

You have helped build this movement from the bottom up, and Barack wants you to be the first to know his choice.Sign up today to be the first to know:

http://my.barackobama.com/vp

You will receive an email the moment Barack makes his decision, or you can text VP to 62262 to receive a text message on your mobile phone.

Once you've signed up, please forward this email to your friends, family, and coworkers to let them know about this special opportunity.

No other campaign has done this before. You can be part of this important moment.

Be the first to know who Barack selects as his running mate.

Thanks,

David

Campaign for Change launches a Letters to the Editor Program

Becky Furgason — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 11:59:23 EDT

Spread the Word!

North Dakota Campaign for Change has launched a Letters to the Editor program called "Your Voice". This is an opportunity for supporters in North Dakota to talk about the issues they are most passionate about and most affected by and why they think Obama is the best candidate to address those issues.

Writing a letter to the editor of local and regional North Dakota newspapers can be a very effective way to get the message out there, and to inspire others in the community by sharing your own personal story.

The online tool makes it easy to send your letter. It provides talking points and a step-by-step process of sending your letter out any of four North Dakota newspapers.

Make your voice heard and help continue to build the amazing strength of this grassroots campaign, write your letter today!

Use our online tool and help us reach out to your local community.

Meet Your North Dakota Campaign for Change Staff

Becky Furgason — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:30:41 EDT

This week Campaign for Change staff from across the state gathered in Fargo for a two day training where, among a host of other things, they learned more about recruiting and working with volunteers, and building North Dakota Campaign for Change Obama Teams.

Fargo resident, Dan Hannaher gave the group a more personal insight into North Dakota history and culture and explained why their being here is so important for North Dakota.

Barack Obama's Campaign for Change employs staffers statewide in North Dakota. A presence unprecedented in the state for a political campaign of any party. While the state's four largest cities of Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Minot serve as campaign headquarters, there are plans to open additional satellite offices in some of the less urban areas of the state, giving more people easier access to Campaign for Change staff and more opportunities to get involved. To find up-to-date information on Regional Campaign for Change office locations in North Dakota, visit the office location page.

The Campaign for Change staffers are excited to be in the state, and look forward to working closely with local North Dakota supporters in their efforts to get Barack Obama elected as the next President of the United States in November. Stop by a Campaign for Change office near you or sign up online to stay informed and find out how you can help.

If you think you might be interested in joining a North Dakota Campaign for Change Obama Team, you can learn more about the various team roles and sign up to join your local team at my.barackobama.com/ndobamateams

Celebrate Barack's Birthday with Campaign for Change

Becky Furgason — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 14:06:24 EDT

Join fellow supporters and Campaign for Change staff for birthday cake and phone banking tomorrow, August 4th, in celebration of Senator Obama's 47th birthday.

Campaign for Change staff will be hosting birthday parties at offices across the state. To find the office nearest you visit my.barackobama.com/ndoffices.

Click here to RSVP for one of these events

For more information, visit my.barackobama.com

Campaign for Change Office in Minot Celebrates Grand Opening

Becky Furgason — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:38:57 EDT

Dozens of people filed into the Campaign for Change office in Minot yesterday to attend their grand opening.

District 3 Representative, Lisa Wolf, was the guest speaker. She told the crowd how prior to the caucus, she was really torn between Barack and Hillary, but decided to support Barack.

"I started doing a lot of research on both of the candidates, and they're very similar in their beliefs, but the one thing with Obama that really stood out to me was the fact that he does not take corporate money and he does not take PAC money; so he will not be tied in to corporations and things like that when he is elected President of the United States...that impressed me a lot because I know how hard it is to raise money for campaigns."

She said Barack's visit put North Dakota on the map and expressed her excitement about the presence of Campaign for Change staff:

"To have the Obama crew here, working to turn North Dakota into a blue state is so incredibly exciting. It's a fantastic opportunity for us. It's about time ND matters."

Friday Night Live in Bismarck

Becky Furgason — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 20:49:55 EDT

Friday Night Live is a chance for students in the Bismarck-Mandan area to get together with people who share similar beliefs, values and hopes for the future. This week, the state's Youth Vote Director, Kate Fendler, will be coming in from Fargo to speak about internships and much more. For those of you who came last week, come AGAIN and bring two friends!

Photos from last Friday

The Details:
What: Friday Night Live
Where: The Bismarck Campaign for Change office
3333 E Broadway Ave, Suite 1206
Bismarck, ND
701-255-1155
When: Every Friday at 4pm

An RSVP is not required, but is suggested. To RSVP, visit my.barackobama.com/FridayNightLive

Pride Fest 2008

Becky Furgason — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:00:31 EDT

This past weekend, Campaign For Change volunteers and staff attended Pride Fest 2008 at Eagle's Park in Bismarck. The event itself had a higher than expected turnout and many of those who attended took the time to stop by the Campaign For Change table to get more information about Senator Obama and his LGBT policies, learn about volunteer opportunities and declare their support for Barack by signing a supporter card.

Corey, one of the event's organizers talked to me about his hope's in a future President, why they hold Pride events and why he supports Barack Obama:

"I think it's time to get a Democrat back in office who's going to be a little more respectful of people's rights and civil rights and hopefully do away with some of the discrimination we've all been dealing with for so long. That's one of the reasons we get together here every summer, because it's a place where we don't get discriminated against, everyone can be who they are; it's why we all come out and do the hard work. We want it to be like that for everyone. I think Obama is the person who will be able to get the boat rowing on that. I'm ready to do away with "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

By the end of the day, a significant number of people were sporting Obama Pride stickers, the campaign had identified a large number of supporters and recruited more enthusiastic volunteers.

More photos from this event can be seen here

For more information about LGBT issues visit pride.barackobama.com

Download Obama's HRC questionnaire

Minot Office Opening Tonight

Becky Furgason — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:39:27 EDT

Join Campaign For Change tonight for the grand opening of the office in Minot. Meet fellow supporters and learn how you can get involved.

Here are the details
Doors open at 5:30pm
Minot Campaign For Change Office
1602 4th Ave NW
Minot, ND
701.852.1198

An RSVP is not required, but is recommended. To RSVP for this event, visit my.barackobama.com/MinotOffice

Helping Shape America

Becky Furgason — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:40:20 EDT

Every four years, the Democratic Party meets to put together the platform that outlines the Party's position on various issues. In the past, these meetings were closed to the public. This year, however, ordinary citizens were invited to take part in this important process by planning, hosting and attending "Platform Meetings" and from these discussions, submit the group's ideas and recommendations for the 2008 platform to the Obama Platform Team.
People all across the country took advantage of the opportunity to help shape the Democratic Party Platform and the future of America.

Langdon, ND is an unlikely location for a Democratic Platform Meeting. Langdon is home to around 2500 people and is a very red county. But even in Langdon, where the local paper is the Cavalier County Republican, they managed to find a good crowd of Democrats for a platform meeting.

North Dakota Veteran's Committee for Obama Formed

Becky Furgason — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:06:08 EDT

In a press conference today at the Fargo Campaign For Change office, local Veterans, Bill Anderson and Bill Hejl announced the formation of the North Dakota Veteran's Committee for Obama. The group's main goal, as Bill Hejl put it, "is getting North Dakota to vote for Senator Obama for President," and to make sure that veterans in North Dakota understand that Senator Obama supports veterans.

Each of them took a moment to talk about issues facing today's veterans and why they believe Senator Obama is the best candidate to address those issues.

Bill Anderson started by both honoring Senator McCain's service and chastising his campaign's recent actions:

"As I'm sure you're all aware, the McCain campaign has recently started a series of negative and misleading campaign ads concerning Senator Obama's commitment to our troops and to our national security. First of all I'd like to say that as a veteran, I honor Senator McCain's service to our country, but I think that we need to set the record straight. I have always believed, and I want to still believe, that Senator McCain is an honorable man, but right now, the actions of his campaign are not honorable and they're not honest."

"A World that Stands as One"

Becky Furgason — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:50:09 EDT

Remarks of Senator Barack Obama (as prepared for delivery)

“A World that Stands as One”

July 24th, 2008

Berlin, Germany

Thank you to the citizens of Berlin and to the people of Germany. Let me thank Chancellor Merkel and Foreign Minister Steinmeier for welcoming me earlier today. Thank you Mayor Wowereit, the Berlin Senate, the police, and most of all thank you for this welcome.

I come to Berlin as so many of my countrymen have come before. Tonight, I speak to you not as a candidate for President, but as a citizen – a proud citizen of the United States, and a fellow citizen of the world.

I know that I don’t look like the Americans who’ve previously spoken in this great city. The journey that led me here is improbable. My mother was born in the heartland of America, but my father grew up herding goats in Kenya. His father – my grandfather – was a cook, a domestic servant to the British.

At the height of the Cold War, my father decided, like so many others in the forgotten corners of the world, that his yearning – his dream – required the freedom and opportunity promised by the West. And so he wrote letter after letter to universities all across America until somebody, somewhere answered his prayer for a better life.

That is why I’m here. And you are here because you too know that yearning. This city, of all cities, knows the dream of freedom. And you know that the only reason we stand here tonight is because men and women from both of our nations came together to work, and struggle, and sacrifice for that better life.

Ours is a partnership that truly began sixty years ago this summer, on the day when the first American plane touched down at Templehof.

On that day, much of this continent still lay in ruin. The rubble of this city had yet to be built into a wall. The Soviet shadow had swept across Eastern Europe, while in the West, America, Britain, and France took stock of their losses, and pondered how the world might be remade.

Read full speech >>

Grand Opening in Fargo

Becky Furgason — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:08:05 EDT

Campaign For Change Staff and volunteers were joined today by fellow supporters, the press and the curious at the Fargo office grand opening, the third so far in the state.

After signing in, people were asked to share why they support Senator Obama by writing them on the "I Support Barack Obama Because" banner that takes up an entire wall.
Several did take advantage of the opportunity which resulted in a potpourri of sentiments:

"He inspires me to work for a better future for our country"

"Because he has a thoughtful and inclusive approach to problem solving"

"Because he will restore the U.S.A. image in the global arena"

"He inspires me to work for others as he has always done"

"I feel he is the candidate who will listen to my point of view"

"Freedom from special interest influence"

"He will make our country a better place for my son to grow up"

"He will save the economy"

"He not only says that ND is not a flyover state - he has shown that belief by visiting twice and by sending such great staffers in the Primary season and now for the election"

Grand Forks, grand opening

Becky Furgason — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:12:33 EDT

Last night Barack Obama's Campaign For Change held the grand opening of their Grand Forks regional office.

Guest speaker, District 42's Senatorial candidate, Mac Schneider stressed the significance of the campaign's presence in North Dakota, "For the first time since 1964, North Dakota is in the game". He went on to talk about how polling numbers and historical voter turnout leads him to believe this race could come down to only a couple thousand votes and the impact each person can have on the outcome of the Presidential election here in North Dakota.

"It's the only campaign with paid staff here in North Dakota, 50 paid staffers across the state all trying to reach voters in every single county, every single town; wherever people want change, they're going to be there. But they can't do it alone; so, a couple of thousand people, what does that mean? It means you're going to have to talk to your friends, you're going to have to talk to the people who sit next to you in church, you're going to have to knock on doors, make phone calls, get absentee ballots and early vote applications to students who wouldn't otherwise know they can vote in North Dakota. And I think if you do that, North Dakota is going to be in a lot better shape; we're going to wake up on Nov 5th and we're going to see Senator Obama make history. And we're all going to feel pretty proud of ourselves too because we've done our little part to make this country just a little bit better."

Visit Campaign For Change at the North Dakota State Fair in Minot

Becky Furgason — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 15:54:17 EDT

This past Saturday, July 19th, Obama supporters joined Campaign For Change volunteers and staffers to march in the North Dakota State Fair Parade, sign up new supporters, recruit new volunteers and pass out Obama signs, stickers and buttons.

Photos from the parade

They also have a table set up in Community Building 3 where they will be available all week to answer your questions and to show you how you can get involved. If you have not yet had a chance, stop by, say HI, sign up and pick yourself up some Obama gear.

If you can't make it to the State Fair, you can stop by your local Campaign For Change office. Click here to find the office nearest you.

To find other supporters and events near you, visit my.barackobama.com

Bismarck office holds Grand Opening

Becky Furgason — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:49:38 EDT

Yesterday, in Bismarck, was the first official opening of a Campaign For Change office in North Dakota. Over 100 supporters, volunteers, elected officials and Campaign For Change staffers were in attendance.

Among the crowd was Jimmy Carter, who, at 60 years old, has never been involved politically before, but has been inspired to donate his time by volunteering for the campaign. Jimmy, like so many of us, believes this country is in desperate need of change and he is putting his words into action by volunteering a few hours per week, making phone calls and helping to enter data, and plans to continue his involvement right up to November 4th.

The upcoming event was covered in the local newspaper and caught the eye of Una. A couple days ago Una wasn't even sure if she was going to vote, but since stopping by the Campaign For Change office is now a dedicated volunteer who loves canvassing and is dedicated to voting for Senator Obama on November 4th.

He's the only one I trust to make a change. And I think America needs a change.

The Bismarck Regional Field Director, Kate, introduced the special guest speaker, District 35's Senator Tracy Potter. Senator Potter began by pointing out the historical significance of this campaign:

This has never happened before in North Dakota, what we're seeing here today. No presidential campaign ever committed to win North Dakota, never opened an office in North Dakota.

Attend A Campaign For Change Office Opening

Becky Furgason — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:15:36 EDT

Barack Obama's Campaign for Change is opening offices across the state of North Dakota. Show your support by attending one of these events.

Office openings will be at the following locations:

Fargo
107 Roberts St N
Fargo, ND 58102
Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at 6:00 PM
View map

Bismarck
3333 E Broadway Ave, Suite 1206
Bismarck, ND 58501
Thursday, July 17, 2008 at 6:00 PM
View map

Minot
1602 4th Ave NW
Minot, ND 58703
Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 5:30 PM
View map

Grand Forks
2750 Gateway Dr, Suite F
Grand Forks, ND 58203
Tuesday, July 22, 2008 at 6:30 PM
View map

RSVP Today

District 24 Picnic

Becky Furgason — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:25:58 EDT

Today marked the 11th annual District 24 Potluck-Picnic at Little Yellowstone Park and the first time anyone affiliated with a Presidential campaign was in attendance. Little Yellowstone park was chosen for it's location, approximately midway between Valley City and Lisbon.

After a group photo and a potluck style lunch, District Chair, Britt Jacobson, kicked off the program by welcoming those in attendance and introducing the first speaker, nine year old Sam Jenson. Sam devoted part of his speech to addressing the war in Iraq

For about 5, 6 years now the troops have been in Iraq, not with Barack Obama. As he says 'My first job is to keep you safe'. Letting people die in Iraq is not keeping us safe.

When questioned why he supports Barack, he responded,

Because I care about this country and I care what happens to it.

Join Campaign For Change at Urban Harvest

Becky Furgason — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:29:06 EDT

Urban Harvest is a culturally enriched outdoor marketplace that promotes local business. It was started in 2005 by 4 North Dakotan women. For more information about Urban Harvest you can check out the website: http://www.bismarckurbanharvest.org/

This summer marks the fourth season of Urban Harvest. The event takes place every Thursday from July 10 through August 14 in downtown Bismarck. The open-air market features a variety of local artists, crafters, food vendors, farmers and entertainers. Urban Harvest is located in Downtown Bismarck, on the corner of 4th and Broadway, market hours are 10:00am to 8:00pm. While you're there, check out the Urban Harvest stage which offers a full day of local entertainment and an evening concert series from 6:00-9:30pm.

Tomorrow, Thursday, July 10th, and every other Thursday through August 14th, we will have Field Organizers from Senator Barack Obama's Campaign for Change present with information on how to get involved with the campaign, all day from 10:00am - 8:00pm. We are excited to meet local supporters and to help you get active in the campaign. Look for the people decked out in Obama gear toting clip boards. We look forward to meeting you all tomorrow.

Campaign for Change Celebrates July 4th Weekend Across North Dakota

Becky Furgason — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 20:19:34 EDT

This July 4th weekend volunteers and staff attended celebrations across North Dakota and Western Minnesota. Dozens of volunteers and staff attend parades and festivals in Fargo/Moorhead, Jamestown, Grand Forks/East Grand Forks, Mandan and Dickinson locating supporters, recruiting new volunteers and talking to people about Obama.

Photos from this weekend:

We have four months and several events to go and we need your help. Join North Dakota For Obama today and be a part of history.

Obama speaks to Veterans in Fargo

Becky Furgason — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:18:58 EDT

As Independence Day approaches, Senator Obama, today, spoke to Veterans in North Dakota at the Children's Museum at Yunker Farm in Fargo . While the event was small and town hall in nature, it was also open to the public.

Retired Veteran Bill Anderson who served in Vietnam, announced the Senator. He got the event started off on a lighter note

Any man who carries his own jackknife is worth a dollar more. Well, Secret Service has my jackknife, I guess they're due for a raise.

He talked about how, in Vietnam, we fought in a conflict that need not have been fought and likened that to the current war in Iraq. He spoke of Barack being a champion for Veterans. He said Obama will treat them fair and back the GI Bill of Rights helping to propel the VA into the 21st century.

Barack spoke of the sacrifice of servicemen and women,

Their sacrifice has made possible the freedom that we enjoy. And keeping faith with those who serve must always be a core American value and a cornerstone of American patriotism. Because America's commitment to its servicemen and women begins at enlistment, and it must never end...These sons and daughters of America are the best and the bravest among us. When our troops go into battle, they serve no faction or party; they represent no race or region. They are simply Americans. They serve and fight and bleed together out of loyalty not just to a place on a map or a certain kind of people, but to a set of ideals that we have been striving for since the first shots rang out at Lexington and Concord - the idea that America could be governed not by men, but by laws; that we could be equal in the eyes of those laws; that we could be free to say what we want and write what we want and worship as we please; that we could have the right to pursue our individual dreams, but the obligation to help our fellow citizens pursue theirs.

He also spoke of his commitment to those who so bravely served and those who are currently serving as outlined in his pledge to build a 21st century VA as President.

You can read his full remarks here.

What makes an event successful are the people who attend it. The supporters and the curious alike. Although our stories, our beliefs, our struggles and our concerns may differ, they also bring us together, as they did today.

Among those in attendance was Randy, an Air Force Veteran, having served 23 years. Randy was initially a John Edwards supporter, but started leaning towards Senator Obama after learning more about him and where he stands on the issues. When asked what brought him here today, Randy said,

I want to hear him speak today to solidify in my mind that I made the right choice.

With Randy was Dorothy, what really impressed her was walking into the campaign office and seeing all the youth, of all different backgrounds and all different ethnicities. Dorothy said, “The youth have to be involved for things to change.”

Barack In Fargo, North Dakota

Amanda Scott — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:10:29 EDT

Barack spoke today at the Children's Museum at Yunker Farm in Fargo, North Dakota. He talked about the importance of Veterans, saying...

Tomorrow, we’ll mark the 4th of July with barbecues and parades; fireworks and time off with loved ones. We’ll also have the opportunity to give thanks for our troops and veterans. Their sacrifice has made possible the freedom that we enjoy. And keeping faith with those who serve must always be a core American value and a cornerstone of American patriotism. Because America's commitment to its servicemen and women begins at enlistment, and it must never end.
...The brave Americans who fight today believe deeply in this country. And no matter how many you meet, or how many stories of heroism you hear, every encounter reminds that they are truly special. That through their service, they are living out the ideals that stir so many of us as Americans - pride, duty, and sacrifice.

Some of the most inspiring are those you meet at places like Walter Reed Army Medical Center. They are young men and women who may have lost a limb or even their ability to take care of themselves, but they will never lose the pride they feel for their country. It's this classically American optimism that makes you realize the quality of person we have serving in the United States Armed Forces.

This, after all, is what led them to wear the uniform in the first place - their unwavering belief in the idea of America. The idea that no matter where you come from, or what you look like, or who your parents are, this is a place where anything is possible; where anyone can make it; where we look out for each other, and take care of each other; where we rise and fall as one nation - as one people. It's an idea that's worth fighting for - an idea for which so many Americans have given that last full measure of devotion.

Here are some pictures from the event...

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

Barack To Speak About Veterans In Fargo, North Dakota

Amanda Scott — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:32:48 EDT

Barack will be in Fargo, North Dakota this afternoon to talk about Veterans, their service to this country and how we can serve them when they return home.

Here are some of Barack's plans and stances on Veterans issues:

Treating our Veterans with Respect

Barack Obama introduced the Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act. The bill improves the condition of troop housing at hospitals like Walter Reed, streamlines the process for wounded troops deciding whether or not they can stay in the military, provides greater information to recovering servicemembers, requires the hiring of more caseworkers, and provides more support to family members who care for injured troops.

Sheltering and Rehabilitating Homeless Veterans

One in three homeless males in this country is a veteran. That’s unacceptable. Barack Obama authored legislation to extend and expand critical homeless veteran rehabilitation programs and make affordable housing available. As president, he will establish a Zero Tolerance policy for veterans falling into homelessness.

Fighting for Disability Benefits

In Illinois, Obama led efforts to empower veterans who received inadequate disability benefits. He forced the VA to notify veterans in Illinois and other states about their right to review past claims. The resulting outreach led to significant numbers of veterans getting the benefits they deserve. As president, he will rebuild the Veterans Benefits Administration by switching to electronic records, hiring more caseworkers, and providing them more training and accountability.

Treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Barack Obama helped stop a VA effort to force some veterans to prove again that they suffered from PTSD to maintain their benefits. He also passed an amendment ensuring that all servicemembers would be properly screened for TBI. In 2007, Obama helped introduce a bill to personalize and improve overall care for TBI patients.
We have to understand that for far too many troops and their families, the war doesn’t end when they come home. Just the other day our own government’s top psychiatric researcher said that because of inadequate mental health care, the number of suicides among veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan may actually exceed the number of combat deaths.
In the Senate, Obama helped lead a bipartisan effort to stop the unfair practice of kicking out troops who suffer from them. And when he is President, he will enhance mental health screening and treatment at all levels: from enlistment, to deployment, to reentry into civilian life.

Easing the Transition of Veterans into Civilian Life

Barack Obama introduced legislation that would help troops transition to civilian life after they leave the military. His legislation would provide new veterans with electronic medical and service records, monitor health trends and improve transportation services.

Visit our Veterans for Obama page to learn more about the Veterans community.

We're Back

Becky Furgason — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:45:39 EDT

We're fired up!

and

We're ready to go!

It's been less than four weeks since Barack became the presumptive Democratic nominee, and we've already made huge strides towards the general election: staff and offices in 21 states, 134 campaign offices open across the country and nearly 1,000 field staff on the ground.

The first wave of campaign staff has returned to North Dakota, and we'll be up and running shortly. In the meantime, you can keep up to date with news and updates by signing up for North Dakota for Obama.

"I Still Believe In The American Dream"

Amanda Scott — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 22:06:57 EDT

In today’s economy, the stories of people living paycheck to paycheck are, sadly, not far and few between. They are happening in every city, in every state, across the country. They happen to families of all shapes and sizes.

People struggle through the hard times, all the while holding on to the hope that things will get better in the end. And that’s why this Independence Day, supporters will be declaring their independence from a broken system to help Barack bring change to a country that so desperately needs it.

Tina recently shared her story and her declaration of independence…

Because I still believe in the American Dream, and the only way that we as a nation can dream again...is with change. Barack is the change we as a nation not only need, but deserve. Our children deserve better. I know that what I'm saying seems really simple, but because of the last administration, it also seems so far away. I have never felt so helpless.

I want my children to have a better life than me.

I am a 40-year-old woman that lives in Montana. My youngest son is half-black...he is 17 years old, but has the wisdom of a 30-year-old man. My oldest son is 20-years-old and is in the Air Force, and I fear for his safety every day.

Barack inspires both my sons.

I am a single mother, and have worked two jobs almost my entire adult life. I have a great job during the day, and health insurance. However, I had to take a second job again about 4 years ago just to pay the power bill, or buy groceries, etc.

I work about 65 hours a week, and I'm always tired.

Both of my children are very active in sports, and the community. They are volunteers, and enjoy life to its fullest. My only dream is to be able to only work one job and spend more time with them. There is never enough money left over for vacations, so we try to get away for a day hike nearby.

I'm on the verge of losing my house due to foreclosure, but there are not enough hours in the day to take yet another job to help pay the bills. I am a Veteran myself, and the issues that are important to me are shared with Barack.

I wish that we as Americans...could dream again and not feel so frustrated. This is the first campaign that I have ever donated or given my time too, but its so worth it.

Declare your independence and help reclaim the American Dream for people like Tina. Every person can make a difference. And when supporters come together as one, change can happen.

The Road Ahead

Christopher Hass — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 23:07:18 EDT

On Friday, campaign manager David Plouffe took time out of his hectic schedule to record a short video on a laptop in his office, outlining the basics of our general election strategy and the challenges that lie ahead. From the beginning, this has been your campaign as much as ours, and we wanted to make sure that all of you had a chance to see it:

And we're growing every day.

But as Plouffe explained, "We start with unprecedented grassroots support . . . but we can't rest on our laurels."

Right around the corner, we're going to see millions of dollars attacking Barack, attacking Michelle Obama, and we have to have the ability to fight back.
... You've done so much already, but we're going to ask you to do even more in the coming weeks so that we can get Barack Obama's positive message out there, build the kind of campaign that we need to nationally, but also respond to these Republican attacks.

The June fundraising deadline is tonight at midnight. By making a contribution before the tonight's deadline, you'll be investing in the growth of this unprecedented movement at a time when the resources are needed the most.

We know the road ahead will not be easy, but we also know that we won't be traveling it alone.

Statement of Barack Obama on Supreme Court Decision in District of Columbia V. Heller

Christopher Hass — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:25:06 EDT

In response to the Supreme Court's decision earlier this morning to strike down the District of Columbia's handgun ban, Senator Obama released the following statement:

I have always believed that the Second Amendment protects the right of individuals to bear arms, but I also identify with the need for crime-ravaged communities to save their children from the violence that plagues our streets through common-sense, effective safety measures. The Supreme Court has now endorsed that view, and while it ruled that the D.C. gun ban went too far, Justice Scalia himself acknowledged that this right is not absolute and subject to reasonable regulations enacted by local communities to keep their streets safe. Today’s ruling, the first clear statement on this issue in 127 years, will provide much-needed guidance to local jurisdictions across the country.

As President, I will uphold the constitutional rights of law-abiding gun-owners, hunters, and sportsmen. I know that what works in Chicago may not work in Cheyenne. We can work together to enact common-sense laws, like closing the gun show loophole and improving our background check system, so that guns do not fall into the hands of terrorists or criminals. Today's decision reinforces that if we act responsibly, we can both protect the constitutional right to bear arms and keep our communities and our children safe.

The Education of an Organizer

Christopher Hass — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 15:06:33 EDT

Organizing to bring people back into politics is not a cost, but an investment in rebuilding the democratic infrastructure of our public life under assault for far too many years. - Marshall Ganz, March 2007

Last weekend, over 3600 volunteers took part in an intensive three day training program to prepare them for their work this summer as Obama Organizing Fellows. These volunteers will spend the next six weeks working on the ground across the country to organize, register voters, recruit new volunteers and help build out the infrastructure we'll need to compete across all 50 states this November.

In addition to the basic skills and fundamentals of campaigning, the Organizing Fellows were taught many of the underlying concepts that have been at the heart of this campaign. As Ohio General Election Director Jeremy Bird explained:

A critical part of taking leadership is being able to articulate for others who you are, where you come from and what challenges have shaped the life choices that led you to this campaign. As a leader you must tell people who you are and why you're there.

The importance of narrative and personal connections is something that Barack learned early on in his career as as community organizer. A recent Los Angeles Times article takes a look at the origins of some of these concepts, and the contribution that one man, Marshall Ganz, made to the philosophy of this campaign:

If Barack Obama succeeds in his historic quest for the White House, the Illinois senator will owe a large debt to Marshall Ganz's passion for such narratives -- and for the way this graying, portly man taught Obama's top field organizers to weave thousands of individual volunteers' stories into a social movement.

Ganz, 65, has no official role in the Obama campaign ... [But] when the Obama campaign held a series of "Camp Obama" training sessions around the country last summer, Ganz was brought in to hold two-day discussions of personal narrative and leadership.

Campaign officials estimate that 200 to 300 organizers were trained at about a dozen Camp Obamas -- three of them co-led by Ganz.

The effort's biggest success came in caucus states like Iowa, where tightknit organizations were better able to get people to the meeting sites.

But grass-roots efforts also paid off in South Carolina and Wisconsin and helped keep the margin small in Indiana.

Ganz's "style of organizing really does speak to who Barack is as a candidate," said Obama field organizer Buffy Wicks, 30, who ran the campaign's grass-roots efforts in California and Texas.

"Marshall really believes in empowering people and teaching them how to become community organizers."

Maggie Fleming, who attended a Camp Obama last summer, said: "Marshall is able to bring this bigger picture of his work with civil rights and with the farmworkers and [connect] people to this idea that this is bigger than just one candidate."

Fleming, 28, the assistant director of a nonprofit environmental education group, later helped form the core of Obama's grass-roots committee in Oakland.

Ganz encourages volunteers to share their own life stories with voters, in the belief that by speaking from the heart, they turn the tedious -- phone-banking, door-knocking -- into a communal mission. It's not policy but passion that he teaches.

continue reading . . .

Breaking: Senator Byron Dorgan to endorse Obama...

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 13:08:59 EST

The Washington Post reports...

Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) told The Trail moments ago that he will be endorsing Barack Obama for president this afternoon, becoming the 10th senator to officially endorse the Illinois senator's bid for the Democratic nomination.

"I decided I wanted to determine who out there can inspire people to move in a new direction," Dorgan said, deciding that Obama was that candidate.

Obama Wins North Dakota!

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 22:03:02 EST

MSNBC calls North Dakota for Obama!

Thank you NoDak!

Grassroots supporters in Fargo

NBC calls North Dakota...

Obama campaign: On the ground in North Dakota

Christopher Hass — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 22:30:19 EST

From the Minot Daily News:

Area residents will play a role in deciding the next president when they vote in North Dakota's caucuses Tuesday. North Dakota is one of 22 states holding Democratic caucuses or primaries and one of 21 states with Republican events.

The Sen. Barack Obama campaign has aggressively sought supporters, setting up an office in Fargo early on and locating campaign workers in Minot, Bismarck and Grand Forks in the week prior to the caucuses.

"In my opinion, not running a 50-state strategy is not advisable," said Maxson, an Obama supporter. "The Obama campaign is recognizing that there are 50 states, and North Dakota is being treated proportionately like the other 49 states rather than being a fly-over state."

Obama staff worker Alec Strickling, a Chicago native, arrived in Minot several days ago to facilitate the local campaign. That's meant working the phones but also assisting wherever local supporters need his help.

"We are not trying to parachute an operation in here because there already is an organization in North Dakota on the ground here," Strickling said. "The real work is helping them logistically."

Strickling previously worked on the campaign in Nevada and Iowa before coming to Minot.

"We think that there should be a lot of Obama supporters here," he said of North Dakota. "It's the right message for this state. All it takes is a little bit of attention."

Sen. Kent Conrad: 'Obama can unite America'

Christopher Hass — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 21:51:30 EST

From the Grand Forks Herald:

"Obama can unite America" by North Dakota Senator Kent Conrad:

I believe America has a chance in this next election to turn the page and restore our nation as a beacon of hope for the world. I believe the person best suited to unite our country and lead us to face these challenges is Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill.

In the Senate, I've had the chance to work with and get to know Obama personally. He shares our Midwestern values. Obama's mother was from Kansas, as were the grandparents who raised him. He has many of the same traits that we do in North Dakota - he is honest, hardworking and straightforward.

… Obama can bring Democrats and Republicans together around an agenda to take on the serious challenges we face here in North Dakota and across the nation.

… We are just days away from the North Dakota caucus. On Tuesday, you can make the difference in choosing our next president by attending the North Dakota caucus. Together, we can help make history.

Majority of Democrats in North Dakota legislature endorse Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 14:18:06 EST

BISMARCK - The Obama campaign announced today that a majority of Democrats from both houses of the North Dakota legislature have endorsed Barack Obama. This announcement comes just days before the February 5 Caucus in North Dakota.

The new endorsements came overwhelmingly from legislators who had previously supported Senator Edwards. A majority of Edwards’ supporters who serve in the legislature are now supporting Barack Obama.

Senate endorsers include Senate Democratic Leader David O'Connell of Lansford and Sen. Richard Marcellais of Belcourt, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. House endorsers include Rep. Jasper Schneider of Fargo, a Democratic candidate for North Dakota Insurance Commissioner. All three were active in Edwards' campaign.

“I am extremely impressed with the Obama campaign's commitment to North Dakota,” Senator David O'Connell said. “Their outreach effort in the state is unprecedented. The Obama campaign is a volunteer-driven organization, and they have put tremendous resources into our state. Obama’s success here demonstrates his crossover appeal to Republicans and independents. In his 20-years in public service, he has brought members of all parties and all ideologies together to get things done. That’s how we’ve always tackled problems in the heartland, and that’s how Barack Obama will confront the challenges we face as President.”

Ten legislators from each chamber announced their endorsement of Senator Obama this week, bringing the total number to 17 in the House and 12 in the Senate.

The Obama campaign has legislative supporters in every corner of the state. Much of his support in the legislature comes from rural areas, including towns like Hankinson, Regent, Ray, and Larimore. Obama last month drew the endorsement of North Dakota Democratic-NPL State Party Vice-Chair Mary Wakefield, Director of the Center for Rural Health at UND. Former North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Sarah Vogel announced her endorsement this week.

Senator Obama holds endorsements from eight of the ten Fargo Democratic legislators, and enjoys strong support from elected officials in Grand Forks, Minot, Bismarck, and Jamestown. Barack Obama is the candidate that generates the broadest support in rural communities as was demonstrated in Iowa, South Carolina, and Nevada.

Obama for America is the only campaign with offices in the state. Since opening the first North Dakota office in November, the campaign has developed a strong field organization. The campaign now has 4 offices across North Dakota - Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Minot - to reach out to voters in every corner of the state. Obama volunteers have made thousands of phone calls, building a field organization town by town to get-out-the-caucus on February 5.

U.S. Congressman Earl Pomeroy endorsed Barack Obama on Thursday. Pomeroy noted in a statement that, "Senator Obama reflects the values of the heartland and has the unique ability to bring people of all ideologies and parties together to make progress." Senator Kent Conrad endorsed in December, and is currently featured in an Obama television ad that continues to run statewide.

Senate Endorsements:
Sen. Minority Leader David O'Connell - Lansford
Sen. Art Behm - Niagara
Sen. Tom Fiebiger - Fargo
Sen. Joan Heckaman - New Rockford
Sen. Joel Heitkamp - Hankinson
Sen. Aaron Krauter - Regent
Sen. Richard Marcellais - Belcourt
Sen. Carolyn Nelson – Fargo
Sen. Jim Pomeroy - Fargo
Sen. Tracy Potter – Bismarck
Sen. Ryan Taylor - Towner
Sen. John Warner - Ryder

House Endorsements:
Rep. Tracy Boe - Milo
Rep. Mary Ekstrom - Fargo
Rep. Rod Froelich - Selfridge
Rep. Eliot Glassheim - Grand Forks
Rep. Chris Griffin - Larimore
Rep. Ed Gruchalla - Fargo
Rep. Pam Gulleson - Rutland
Rep. Lyle Hanson - Jamestown
Rep. Scot Kelsh – Fargo
Rep. Joe Kroeber - Jamestown
Rep. Ralph Metcalf - Valley City
Rep. Louis Pinkerton - Minot
Rep. Arlo Schmidt - Maddock
Rep. Jasper Schneider - Fargo
Rep. Dorvan Solberg - Ray
Rep. Lisa Wolf - Minot
Rep. Steve Zaiser - Fargo

Congressman Earl Pomeroy (D-ND) Endorses Barack Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:11:21 EST

North Dakota's Congressman Earl Pomeroy endorsed Barack Obama today, citing his ability to work with Americans of all ideologies and all parties to get things done.

"Barack Obama reflects the values of the heartland – he has the unique ability to bring people of all ideologies and parties together to make progress," said Congressman Pomeroy. "Senator Obama has broken through the bitter partisanship in Washington to pass reforms that reduced the stranglehold of lobbyists on our legislative process, decreased our dependence on foreign oil by investing in renewable fuels and opened up the doors of our government so that voters could monitor how their tax dollars are being spent. That's why he has generated such great crossover appeal among Republicans and independents, and why he will put our party in the strongest position to win states across the country in November. Change will not come easily, and we need a leader who will stand up to special interests and tell the American people not what they want to hear, but what they need to hear, about the challenges we face. Barack Obama will be that president."

"Congressman Pomeroy has been a powerful advocate in Congress to keep the American dream within reach for middle class families," said Senator Obama. "He believes that instead of subsidizing corporations that ship jobs overseas, we should provide retirement security for families here at home. Earl Pomeroy has achieved progress in Congress not by demonizing Republicans but by working together with members of all parties to find common ground. I'm grateful that he has joined this movement to bring change we can believe in to America."

Earl Pomeroy has served as North Dakota's Congressman since 1992, serving on the powerful Ways and Means and Agriculture Committees. Pomeroy led the fight to pass tax credits to help families save for retirement and he is one of the House's most vocal advocates for family farmers and ranchers. As the Co-Chair of the bipartisan Rural Health Care Coalition, he has worked to ensure that Medicare benefits are fairly distributed across the country.

In North Dakota, Obama has also been endorsed by U.S. Senator Kent Conrad. The Obama campaign is the only Democratic campaign with offices in the state, located in Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Minot.

New Feb. 5th state ads

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 16:40:36 EST

Here are a couple more ads running in Feb. 5th states.

First, a TV ad featuring Senator Kent Conrad of North Dakota...

Second, a radio ad featuring Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri and her mother...

'ND Sen. Conrad promotes Obama in TV ad'

Christopher Hass — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 18:21:08 EST

From the Associcated Press:

North Dakota Sen. Kent Conrad speaks in a new television ad that asks North Dakotans to support Democrat Barack Obama in the state's Feb. 5 presidential preference caucuses.

Conrad endorsed Obama's presidential bid last month, before he won the Iowa caucuses. In the ad, Conrad says Obama speaks honestly about the nation's challenges.

"We need someone to bring us together, to lift us up, and move us forward," Conrad says in the advertisement. "Barack Obama can unite America, not just to win an election, but to lift our nation."

Obama campaign committed to North Dakota

Christopher Hass — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 15:14:02 EST

From KXNet.com | CBS Bismarck:

With less than two weeks before the North Dakota Caucus, presidential hopeful Barack Obama is the first candidate to run tv ads in the state.

… "The way I look at it, is if a candidate cares enough about North Dakota to send staff and spend money at this time. Then the relationship is going to last after he's elected president. But that represents a commitment on Senator Obama's part toward the people of North Dakota. And I think that's pretty important.”

… Obama is the only democratic canidiate with offices in North Dakota.

A Portrait of Change: Frank in Fargo

Matt — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:33:01 EST

Meet Frank, aka "El Perdido." Frank is an artist in Fargo, and a barista at a popular local coffeehouse. He's also fired up about Barack, and has been showing his support for Barack through his art.

Frank has never considered himself very political. But he feels that this year is different, and that it's important that North Dakotans who care about their country and world stand up and be counted on February 5th.

After he met our North Dakota campaign staff back in December, Frank started looking at Barack more closely, and thought about connecting his art with the campaign. He spent hours looking at photos of Barack, and realized that a straight-up portrait couldn't do the Senator justice; as Sen. Obama himself has said many times, this campaign isn't about him; it's about all of us. And it's that sense of unity, of our movement for change, that Frank wanted to convey in his painting.

Frank unveiled the piece at our Iowa Caucus Night party in Fargo on January 3rd. We were all absolutely amazed. An ink rendering of Senator Obama greeting a crowd in Iowa, on a canvass covered with old dictionary pages. At the bottom, Frank painted "n: heart.", referring to a dictionary definition. A closeup of the piece is above. It's stunning.

And here are the attendees of our Fargo Iowa Caucus night party, with the painting:

Frank is planning to keep making paintings of Senator Obama, and plans to donate part of the proceeds from his sales to support the campaign!! If interested in contacting Frank, find him on myspace as El Perdido. If interested in joining the Obama campaign in ND, call us at 701-297-5167!

Fired Up in Jamestown, North Dakota

Matt — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 18:17:20 EST

A Democratic district chair. A North Dakota Farmers Union activist. Ten college students. And--I am not making this up--the faculty advisor for the Jamestown College Republicans.

In case there was any question or doubt, let it be known: Jamestown, NoDak is FIRED UP for Barack!

Thursday night, we had our first ever Obama organizing meeting in Jamestown, as part of our statewide "Fired Up Thursday" night of action. The turnout of 17 people was fantastic, for a night when the temperature was below zero, and blowing snow made driving hazardous.

The Jamestown College for Obama group is off to a strong start, now an officially-chartered student organization!! They're planning to table outside the cafeteria several days a week, and are also working with the College Dems to arrange a van to shuttle students to and from the caucus location. But the most amazing thing about Jamestown College Students for Obama is their ambition to make a huge difference in the caucus this year.

In 2004, only 137 people caucused in the entire city of Jamestown (District 12), according to Dean, the District chair. And according to voter records, only 6 of them were under age 35. Natasha and Jessica, two leaders of the Jamestown College group, have set a goal of turning out 300 students from JC at the caucus--a full third of the student body, and more than twice the turnout for the whole city from 2004. And they're motivated to make it happen!

At the end of the meeting, Jessica summed it all up, channelling her favorite words of inspiration from Barack himself, "Yes, we can!"

If you're from North Dakota, check out ND.BarackObama.com to find out how you can get involved locally and help Barack win here.

Join NoDak Obama Campaign for Fired Up Thursday!

Matt — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 02:04:12 EST

Welcome to the North Dakota for Obama online headquarters!

Our campaign is fired up and ready to go across the Peace Garden State! Three weeks out from caucus day, we have offices open and staff on the ground in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Bismarck, and active grassroots groups starting up across the state!

Over the next 20 days, our blog will be bringing you regular updates on our organizing activities, introduce you to our staff and activists, and more info on the North Dakota caucus and how you can make ND Obama territory on February 5th!

Today, we’re kicking off the final 20 days before Super Tuesday with "Fired Up Thursday!" We’ll be having grassroots volunteer phonebanks today in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Minot (first time phonebank in the Magic City!), and organizing meetings / caucus trainings in Valley City and Jamestown. For more information or to sign up, click on the links below:

Bismarck: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/officialevent/4vbgx

Fargo: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/officialevent/4vbg5

Grand Forks: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/officialevent/4vbg7

Jamestown: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/officialevent/4vblr

Minot: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/officialevent/4vblv

Valley City: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/officialevent/4vblt

Look forward to seeing you tonight!!

Matt Weinstein
ND Caucus Director
Obama for America

Video: One Voice

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:20:01 EST

This is what a movement looks like, a taste of the year ahead:

This nationwide enthusiasm is being harnessed into concrete action.

We've got tremendous organizations in Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina, but we're also equipped well beyond the early states. We have 32 offices open in 17 of the February 5th states; offices in places like Alabama (where we have 3!), North Dakota (check out this local news video from today on our operation there) and even Alaska, which have been all but ignored in past presidential primaries. These 32 staffed offices that empower our grassroots activist to maximize their statewide impact.

Real change doesn't happen because politicians promise it -- it doesn't happen when it comes from the top. Real change happens when it comes from us. Barack Obama understands that better than any other candidate, and that's how this movement has flourished and continues to build momentum.

As of this hour, over 481,000 individuals have made a sacrifice and donated to this campaign. Virtually all of our donors have given under $100; less than three and a half percent of our donors have maxed out.

By January 3rd, a half of a million people will have donated to the Obama campaign, shattering every previous total in presidential primary history.

Regardless of what happens on Thursday, this number will be a thunderclap over the political establishment and the entrenched, big-money interests that have dominated our politics for far too long.

On that day, history will be made -- not just by an individual, but by a movement.

This is crossposted on DailyKos.com.

Senator Kent Conrad endorses Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 12:12:52 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – United States Senator Kent Conrad (D-ND) endorsed Barack Obama for President today, citing his ability to unite the nation to get things done.

“I believe that Barack Obama’s ability to end our partisan divisions will unite Democrats, Independents, and Republicans in a coalition for change that can win in November,” said Conrad. “Barack Obama is our best hope to break the partisan logjam in Washington, and make real progress on issues like health care, energy, and ending this war in Iraq.”

Added Conrad: “I saw Barack Obama bring Democrats and Republicans together to pass the furthest-reaching ethics reform since Watergate so that the voices of working Americans could be heard in Washington. He’s also reached across the aisle to pass a law that would increase government accountability by creating a database that allows taxpayers to see how we’re spending their money. And we have worked together on bipartisan legislation to invest in putting America on the path to energy independence, so we can turn away from the Mid East and turn instead to the Mid West for our energy needs.”

“We know Barack Obama is the candidate who will bring change we can believe in because he has done it throughout his two decades in public service,” concluded Conrad.

“Senator Conrad fights every day in Congress to preserve our middle class, lift up our rural communities that too often lack resources and influence, and restore fiscal discipline so that our children don’t bear the enormous debt burden that exists today,” said Senator Obama. “He is respected on both sides of the aisle for his relentless focus on results, not partisan politics. I’m grateful for Senator Conrad’s support and I know he’ll be a partner in our effort to unite America around a common purpose.”

Conrad, who serves as the Chairman of the Budget Committee, has represented North Dakotans in the Senate for 20 years. Conrad is a leader on rural issues – he helped write the 2002 and 2007 Farm Bills, expanded access to health care in rural areas, and has fought for investments in renewable energy programs that would benefit American farmers. Conrad has also been a leader in the fight against unfair trade practices which are costing American jobs.

The Obama campaign has opened an office in Fargo, ND and is building a grassroots network throughout the state that will turn out the caucus vote on February 5th. On Sunday, Senator Conrad will join Obama on the campaign trail in Iowa.

North Dakota Caucus Trainings: Got Hope?

Sarah Ramey — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:22:31 EST

Right now it's 14 degrees in Grand Forks, North Dakota. But ND's Caucus Director, Matt Weinstein is undaunted:

"The weather is chilly, but North Dakota is fired up!"

Last week the North Dakota campaign kicked off with a series of organizing meetings and caucus trainings entitled "Got Hope?" There were great turnouts -- from high school students to retired farmers to Native Americans -- in Grand Forks, Minot, Bismarck, and Fargo.

To check out some great footage from KFYR NBC News in Bismarck, click here.

"This is a national election," Matt said on the news. "It's important that we don't leave states behind, particularly states that have been put in this box as being 'red' states."

Every attendee filled out a blank map of North Dakota, saying why they support Barack. Allan, an Iraq War vet from Fargo, wrote, "We need and deserve a new brand of leadership." Ginger, a retired teacher from Mandan, wrote, "His is the face America should show the rest of the world." And Danielle, a student at Minot State wrote:

Do you live in a Feb. 5th voting state? Check out this map to find out, and see what you can do to get Barack Obama elected on February 5th.

North Dakota office opens its doors!

Sarah Ramey — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 17:38:18 EST

Office by office, this grassroots movement is spreading out far and wide...and tomorrow morning, our newest addition opens its doors in Fargo, North Dakota.

It's the Obama for America Fargo Office Grand Opening!

North Dakotans will be heading over in the morning to meet other Obama supporters in their area to socialize and start planning ahead for the final two months before their critical February 5th primary.

So, if you're in North Dakota or northern Minnesota, be sure to swing by tomorrow morning at 11am. Here are the details:

Fargo Office Grand Opening
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Doors open 11:00 a.m.

1137 19th Ave. North
Fargo, ND 58102

Congratulations, Fargo!

Kent Conrad: Barack Was Right

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 14:59:22 EDT

This morning, on the first day of the fifth year of our involvement in Iraq, Senator Obama spoke on the Senate Floor about the staggering costs of the war:

On Thursdays, Senator Durbin and I hold a constituent coffee so we can hear from the folks back home. A young man came a few months ago who was about 25, 26 years old. He had been back from Iraq for a year. The first months of that year he spent in a coma. An explosion had shattered his face, blinded him in both eyes, and has left him without the use of one arm.
He told us about how he was going through rehab, and he introduced us to his family. He has a wife and two young daughters like I do, and his wife talked for a bit about the adjustments they were making at home since dad got hurt. And I found myself looking at not just him, but at his wife, who loves him so much, and I thought about how their lives were forever changed because of the decision that was carried out four years ago.
The sacrifices of war are immeasurable.

Barack, who opposed the war from the get-go, then called for the troops to start coming home:

Iraq has not been a failure of resolve, it has been a failure of strategy – and that strategy must change. It is time bring a responsible end to this conflict now.

After Obama spoke, Senator Kent Conrad from North Dakota responded to his stirring speech:

Mr. President, I just want to commend the Senator from Illinois, Senator Obama, for the wisdom that I think he has displayed with respect to the conflict in Iraq. I read a speech that he gave when he was a state senator warning about the dangers of going to war in Iraq. In many ways, it reflected many of the same feelings and analysis that I had given in my speech on the floor of the senate. I gave the last speech before that fateful vote to authorize going to war in Iraq... I've always felt that was an extremely serious mistake, military mistake for this country. I was so impressed that the Senator from Illinois, who was a state senator at the time, had the wisdom and the judgment to see that. I wish more had seen it. With that, I again want to thank the Senator from Illinois.

For more on the stunning toll this war has taken, check out this interactive map from the BBC. And for more on Barack’s position and how you can help him bring a responsible end to this conflict, visit our Iraq resource and action center.