Oregon Action Team

A Message from Michelle Obama

John Griswold — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 11:30:38 EST

Friends,

Today is Election Day.

The opportunity to set our country on a new path has never felt more real than it does right now.

The polls are open in most places, and people are already making their voices heard for change.

There's just one thing left to do -- vote and make sure everyone you know votes, too.

You can find or verify your ballot drop location by looking up your most recent registration address at VoteForChange.com.

Go vote today, and make sure you take your friends and family with you.

This is the day when we have to commit to doing everything we can. We can't afford not to -- for our families, our communities, and our future.

Once you vote, you can do more than just wait as the returns come in.

You can help get every last vote for Barack by volunteering in your community or making calls from home. Help put us over the top today:

http://my.barackobama.com/november

It's not too late to knock on doors, make calls, and make sure that every one of our supporters gets to the polls today.

Change is within our reach. We're counting on you to get us there today.

Thank you for everything you're doing,

Michelle

P.S. -- If anyone you know hasn't yet made up their mind, please invite them to learn more about Barack's positions on important issues:

http://www.barackobama.com/issues/

NE Portland Volunteers Are Getting Out the Vote

John Griswold — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 16:07:18 EDT

The NE Portland Campaign for Change office was buzzing Friday with supporters hungry for change. Supporters made phone calls, assembled and walked canvass packets, and collected completed ballots as part of the statewide Get Out the Vote (GOTV) effort.

Volunteers have been working hard these past weeks across Oregon to make sure that every supporter's vote for Barack Obama is cast.

There are less than one hundred hours left to make a difference in this election. Will you help us in this final push to election day? Sign up here for a GOTV shift, and help bring the change we need to Oregon.

Gov. Howard Dean Stumps for Obama in Oregon

John Griswold — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:29:13 EDT

SUNDAY, GOV. HOWARD DEAN, CHAIRMAN OF THE DNC, TO GET-OUT-THE-VOTE FOR OBAMA, MERKLEY, AND OREGON DEMOCRATS

Dean, Wyden, Merkley and Oregon Democrats Headline GOTV Events in Portland and Eugene

PORTLAND, OR - This Sunday, Gov. Howard Dean, Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, will join Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley, Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate, and other statewide Democratic candidates in Oregon to get out the vote for Barack Obama, Jeff Merkley, and Democrats across Oregon.

With only two days left to vote in this crucial election, Gov. Dean, Sen. Wyden, Jeff Merkley, Kate Brown, Ben Westlund, John Kroger, and Brad Avakian will kick-off get-out-the-vote mobilization events in Portland and Eugene.

Sunday, November 2nd

4:30 PM - PORTLAND
Campaign for Change Headquarters
3016 SE Division St.
Portland, OR 97202

7:30 PM - EUGENE
Campaign for Change Eugene Office
150 W Broadway
Eugene, OR 97401

Contact your local Campaign for Change Office for more information.

Canvassing Makes A Difference in Oregon

John Griswold — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:33:40 EDT

Did you know that canvassing is the most effective way to get out the vote? Canvassing, which is basically going door to door in your neighborhood and representing Barack Obama, is the most useful tool we have to influence the Presidential Election. Here in Oregon, the whole canvassing process takes only a few hours, but it is immensely helpful.

First time canvassers receive training and support from Campaign for Change organizers, a targeted list of names of people who are likely to support Barack Obama, and are sent out to knock doors. Once canvassers contact a voter on their list, they ask the voter if they are planning on voting for Obama and Democrats down the ticket, and offer to take the voter's completed ballot to a ballot drop box. Nothing could be simpler, and you'll know you've helped to bring the change we need to Oregon.

Canvass shifts are taking place several times daily across Oregon. Click here to find the canvass shift nearest you, or contact your local Campaign for Change office to find out more.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi Stumps for Obama in Oregon

John Griswold — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 22:14:15 EDT

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was in Portland last Friday to speak to Obama supporters and encourage them to give their all in these final days of the campaign. Speaker Pelosi spoke to a gathering of Women for Obama supporters about the importance of putting Barack Obama in the White House, and noted how crucial it is for Oregonians to vote for Jeff Merkley and Democrats down the ticket, thus giving Obama the support he'll need from the Senate to enact the change America needs.

It is important that every voter who supports Barack Obama is able to cast their ballot in this final week, and that's what our efforts from now until Election Day are focused on.

Even if you haven't had a chance to get involved before, now is the time to lend a hand.

Get involved in a GOTV (Get Out the Vote) activity today, and be a part of this historic campaign.

Obama-Biden Tax Calculator

John Griswold — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 22:23:38 EDT

Obama-Biden Tax Calculator

Barack Obama and Joe Biden will cut taxes for 95% of working families, and provide at least three times as much tax relief for middle class families as John McCain and Sarah Palin. The Obama/Biden plan provides $1,000 of tax relief for workers and new tax benefits to help families pay for college, childcare and save for retirement.

Read the full Obama tax plan here.
Compare the Obama and McCain Tax Plans.
Key Facts About Obama and Taxes.

A Message from the Oregon Field Director

John Griswold — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:37:32 EDT

Ballots begin arriving in Oregon this Friday, October 17th. The best way to help Barack in this historic election is by mailing in your ballot as soon as you receive it -- and by encouraging others to do the same.

It only takes a few minutes. And when you vote within 24 hours of receiving your ballot, you allow volunteers and organizers to better focus their resources and spend more time helping thousands of other Oregonians get their votes in for Barack and Democrats up and down the ballot.>br?

Visit VoteForChange.com right now to find the nearest ballot drop location near you, or mail your ballot in to your county elections office.

Vote early, remind everyone you know to do so as well, and help supporters and organizers do everything they can to get a big win for Barack Obama in Oregon.

Thanks,

Jesse

Jesse Bontecou
Field Director
Oregon Campaign for Change

P.S. -- Once you've voted, sign up for a Get Out The Vote shift in this final stretch to make sure all Oregonians get their ballots in and make their voices heard in this election:
http://or.barackobama.com/ORgotv

Deadline: Help Barack -- Register Voters in Oregon

John Griswold — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:34:47 EDT

Dear Friends,

Tuesday, October 14th, is Oregon's voter registration deadline. And this weekend -- October 11th and 12th -- is our last big chance to make sure everyone in Oregon is registered to vote.

Supporters like you have already brought thousands of new voices into the political process, but there are still folks in communities just like yours who support Barack but are not registered to vote.

That's why supporters are coming together across the state to reach out to their unregistered neighbors as part of our final statewide voter registration drive.

Will you help register voters this weekend and take part in our last voter registration drive before the deadline?

With the economy in crisis, it's more important than ever to change the way politics works in our nation's capital.

But we can only do it by working together, because real change comes from the bottom up, not the top down.

That means empowering people who have been left out of the political process or are just now old enough to add their voices. And there are thousands of unregistered voters across Oregon.

Take a few hours this weekend to help bring change to Oregon -- make sure your family, friends, and neighbors are registered, and help Barack Obama win this important battleground state.

Find a voter registration event near you and sign up today:

http://or.barackobama.com/OregonVoters

No experience is necessary to make a difference. All you need is energy and a commitment to change -- campaign staff will be there to support you with everything else.

Thanks for your help,

Jesse

Jesse Bontecou
Field Director
Oregon Campaign for Change

P.S. -- There are only 26 days left until Election Day, and this campaign's success is depending on supporters like you turning your enthusiasm into action. Come to a Get Out The Vote Summit this Sunday, October 12th, and learn how you can make sure every voter in Oregon has a chance to Vote for Change by November 4th:

http://or.barackobama.com/ORgotvsummit

Introducing the Obama 08 iPhone App to Oregon

John Griswold — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 20:16:53 EDT

With only 31 days left, it's more important than ever to call your friends and family to make sure they are registered and voting for Barack. We are excited to announce another way to help you organize your personal contacts and ask them to "get out and vote."

We have launched an official iPhone Application, a free download for iPhone and iPod Touch users. This tool is designed to help you become more directly involved in our campaign to change our country.

The application has a "Call Your Friends" tool that helps you organize your contacts by key battleground states -- a feature we're hoping will generate thousands of additional personal contacts. You can also easily mark reminder notes to yourself on which friends you have called, who they are supporting and who wants a reminder call on Election Day. The information does not leave your phone (so your friends' and your own privacy are protected) but the total amount of calls the application makes are tallied, so you can keep track of your progress as we close in on November 4th.

The Obama 08 application also includes a tool to make it easy to find your local campaign office. Using your phone's current location, you can easily find a field office anywhere in the country (and even find directions to it using the mapping function).

Other features of the application include up to date news from the campaign, video, photos, and all of the issue information needed to use as talking points with your friends when convincing them to register and vote!

Please tell your iPhone users (and iPod Touch users) to download this app today. You can download the application here.

And all mobile users you can get news, updates, videos and more on your phone by texting SITE to 62262 to view our mobile WAP page.

Obama-Biden Campaign Releases New TV Ad On John McCain’s Plan To Tax Your Health Care Benefits

John Griswold — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 16:55:14 EDT

Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released a third 30 second TV ad, "One Word," which highlights how John McCain promises a health care tax credit, but doesn't tell you that for the first time ever, McCain will make you pay taxes on your health care benefits. McCain doesn't say one word about that.

Read about Barack Obama and Joe Biden's healthcare plan here.

Obama-Biden Campaign Launches New TV Ad on Last Night's Debate

John Griswold — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:43:52 EDT

CHICAGO, IL - Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released a new 30 second TV ad, "Can't Explain", which highlights health care in the debate last night. In the ad, which features footage from the debate, Joe Biden sheds light on the truth about John McCain's health care plan, telling America that McCain pays for his health care plan by taxing your health care benefits, and he calls that, "the ultimate bridge to nowhere."

The Ad-"Can't Explain"

Medford Oregon Debate Watch Parties

Denise from Medford — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:31:50 EDT

AWESOME!!! If you haven't been able to make it to a debate watch party, mark your calendar for October 7th and get to one! Our watch parties here in Medford at The RedRock have had over four dozen people in attendance at each one and we have had an amazing time! Please join us on October 7th at The RedRock for a Town Hall style meeting between the Presidential candidates (we will meet at 5:30 our time to settle in and have a brief meeting-debate begins at 6 PST). Many "Thanks!" to RedRock for being such wonderful hosts! Thanks to everyone who attended-awesome to meet you! See everyone Tuesday! Denise

Barack Obama Talks About Tax Cuts For Working Americans

John Griswold — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 23:24:33 EDT

Tonight, Senator Joe Biden and Governor Sarah Palin participated in the Vice Presidential Debate. One of the biggest issues addressed in the debate was the state of the American economy.

Read about Barack Obama's plan for responsible tax cuts for ordinary Oregonians and the middle class here.

Read about Barack Obama's plan to help small businesses here .

Read about Barack Obama's plan to protect homeownership and crack down on mortgage fraud here.

Want to get involved, and help bring change to Oregon and America, to become part of a movement that looks forward to making a better future for all Americans? Join Barack Obama's Campaign for Change.

Michelle Obama Encourages Oregonians To Register To Vote

John Griswold — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:25:19 EDT

Michelle Has 3 Simple Rules for Oregon:

The deadline to register to vote in Oregon for the 2008 Presidential Election is Tuesday, October 14th. That's less than two weeks from today.

Visit www.voteforchange.com to make sure you're registered at your current mailing address.

Visit your local Campaign for Change Office, and register to vote there.

Join a voter registration effort in your community, and help bring enfranchisement to others.

Our time is now. Registering to vote takes only a couple of minutes, but it is one of the most important ways you can help bring change to America with Barack Obama.

Statement of Senator Obama on Moving Financial Legislation Forward

John Griswold — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:50:30 EDT

Yesterday, within the course of a few hours, the failure to pass the economic rescue plan in Washington led to the single largest decline of the stock market in two decades.

While I, like others, am outraged that the reign of irresponsibility on Wall Street and in Washington has created the current crisis, I also know that continued inaction in the face of the gathering storm in our financial markets would be catastrophic for our economy and our families.

At this moment, when the jobs, retirement savings, and economic security of all Americans hang in the balance, it is imperative that all of us - Democrats and Republicans alike - come together to meet this crisis.

The bill rejected yesterday was a marked improvement over the original blank check proposed by the Bush Administration. It included restraints on CEO pay, protections for homeowners, strict oversight as to how the money is spent, and an assurance that taxpayers will recover their money once the economy recovers. Given the progress we have made, I believe we are unlikely to succeed if we start from scratch or reopen negotiations about the core elements of the agreement. But in order to pass this plan, we must do more.

One step we could take to potentially broaden support for the legislation and shore up our economy would be to expand federal deposit insurance for families and small businesses across America who have invested their money in our banks.

The majority of American families should rest assured that the deposits they have in our banks are safe. Thanks to measures put in place during the Great Depression, deposits of up to $100,000 are guaranteed by the federal government.

While that guarantee is more than adequate for most families, it is insufficient for many small businesses that maintain bank accounts to meet their payroll, buy their supplies, and invest in expanding and creating jobs. The current insurance limit of $100,000 was set 28 years ago and has not been adjusted for inflation.

That is why today, I am proposing that we also raise the FDIC limit to $250,000 as part of the economic rescue package - a step that would boost small businesses, make our banking system more secure, and help restore public confidence in our financial system.

I will be talking to leaders and members of Congress later today to offer this idea and urge them to act without delay to pass a rescue plan.

Join the Oregon AAPI Action Team!

Ramey Ko — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 19:04:24 EDT

For too long, the Asian American & Pacific Islander vote has been forgotten or ignored. Sen. Obama is committed to real change and giving AAPIs a real voice in this election. Join the Oregon Obama campaign's AAPI Action Team and help organize efforts in the Oregon AAPI community to:

1) Register as many new voters as possible by the Oct. 14th deadline;
2) Reaching out to undecided AAPI voters; &
3) Make sure everyone votes once ballots drop on Oct. 17th.

Sign up today on MyBarackObama.com: http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gshcd2
Ramey Ko
www.AsianAmericansforObama.com
Donate
http://Donate.AsianAmericansforObama.com
Join us at BarackObama.com
http://My.AsianAmericansforObama.com/
Join us at Facebook
http://Fans.AsianAmericansforObama.com

Corvallis Volunteers Complete Midnight Registration Drive

John Griswold — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 19:35:37 EDT
Last Thursday, the streets of Corvallis were teeming with excited students. In a stunning upset, the Oregon State University football team defeated the number one team in the country, the University of Southern California.

Beaver fans rushed the field after the incredible victory, and Campaign for Change volunteers and staff rushed the streets around campus to register new voters.

Between the hours of 10pm to 2am, supporters armed with clipboards and glow-sticks registered over 150 new voters, helping to give a voice to these excited OSU fans, and helping to increase the voting pool for Barack Obama and Joe Biden when ballots drop in a few weeks.

The deadline to register to vote in Oregon is Tuesday, October 14th. Are you registered to vote? Are you sure? Check here to make certain.

Want to help make a difference? Registering new voters is one of best ways to help. Help register voters today, and become part of this historic movement.

Watch the Presidential Debate and Support Obama

John Griswold — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:45:57 EDT

On September 26th, Barack Obama and John McCain will have their first debate of the election. Senator Obama will present his case for why he and Joe Biden represent the change that America needs.

Supporters will be gathering across Oregon to watch this historic debate. Whether you host or attend a party, this is an important moment -- and a great opportunity to bring people together, talk about the issues, and build this movement for change.

If you've never attended a house party before, don't worry. With just six weeks left before Election Day, November 4th, this important first debate is the perfect time to get involved. Campaign for Change staff will give you all the training and tools you need to lend a hand to this historic movement.

Click here to attend or host a house party in your community.

Click here to get involved in Barack Obama's Campaign for Change.

You're Invited To Join A Nationwide Presidential DebateWatch

EsquireUK — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 09:00:49 EDT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amukRM9SSoo
Friday, 26th September 2008
Cambridge, MA
Dear American Voters,
The White House election could be decided in just 90 minutes. The presidential debate, still scheduled for tonight in Oxford, Mississippi, provides the first opportunity for American voters to see John McCain and Barack Obama together and finally make up their minds.
The Election is 39 days away and the American voters deserve to hear directly from the presidential candidates about how they intend to lead our great nation.
God bless America.
Thank you,
Raphael Holoman-Franklin
Presidential Candidate Barack Obama Supporter
http://www.cctvcambridge.org/node/4591

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

One of the benefits of running one of the largest field operations in American political history is the opportunities it creates for grassroots supporters to get involved, no matter where they live.

This past weekend, a group of Cornell students traveled to Pennsylvania, where they set a goal of speaking to 1,000 voters in a single day. Local Obama supporters offered to house them for the weekend, and as the Pocono Record explained:

The Poconos is getting a taste of the urgency building in presidential campaigns this weekend.
A bus load of 55 young Barack Obama supporters from Cornell University arrived in the area on Friday night and will be here until [Sunday] morning.
"We all feel that Stroudsburg is a very important district. We wanted to go somewhere we could make a difference," student Sarah Sy said.
Fellow student Siobhan Powers added, "I am from New Jersey, which is a very Democratic state. Pennsylvania is a swing state. We want to get every vote we can get."
It's a story that's being repeated across the country, as supporters take to the road to help where they're needed most. From the New Jersey Lehigh-Valley News:

With about six weeks to go until Election Day, [Liz] Hoyt is one of several New Jersey residents heading across the Delaware River to help Obama win what is considered more of a swing state.

... The Obama campaign has been aggressively trying to draw New Jersey residents into the Keystone State. Supporters can sign up to volunteer in Pennsylvania on the candidate's Web site and the campaign is offering to arrange carpools and possibly provide housing for extended stays.
After watching the Republican convention, Clinton Township resident Judy Richterman went online and saw the plea to "Drive For Change" on the Obama campaign Web site. Richterman was soon making phone calls out of the campaign's Easton office.
"I felt compelled to take action this time," said Richterman, who last worked on a presidential campaign about 40 years ago. "I felt I wouldn't be able to face myself if I didn't."
In Maryland, the Diamondback Online reports:

Some students, undeterred by the state's lack of battleground status this presidential election, are taking action 40 minutes down the road in the far more consequential state of Virginia.

Members of the College Democrats knocked on the doors of undecided voters in the Springfield, Va.-area Saturday afternoon, part of the group's efforts to campaign for Democratic nominee Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) in a traditionally conservative state that is considered in play for the Democrats this year.

... [Bill] Franklin was one of 16 students who volunteered last weekend while six students campaigned the Saturday before, College Democrats Vice President Amy Hartman said. Hartman hopes the number of volunteers will double each week in the six Saturdays remaining prior to the election.

Senior economics and government and politics major Jason George knocked on around 50 doors in several hours, and found the people he talked to mostly receptive to his appeal for Obama.

"For a lot of people, it was just kind of giving them information and asking them if they had made up their minds yet. I wasn't really having heated discussions," George said. "They appreciated that somebody was willing to go out and take the time to reach them."
And in Massachusetts, a group of dedicated grassroots supporters have found a way to have an impact on the New Hampshire race without leaving their home state. The Berkshire Eagle reports:
Susan Olshuff, a Barack Obama supporter, knows that Massachusetts is all but certain to vote for her candidate in November, but she wants to fight for him nonetheless.

So Olshuff has organized an Obama call center. Beginning on Tuesday, volunteers armed with cell phones can gather in a borrowed storefront at the Aspinwell Shops on Route 7 and 20 and call registered voters in New Hampshire, a key battleground state.

"I felt urgently that I had to do something," Olshuff said. "The campaign is doing call centers all over the country, and it is a way that people can reach out without having to go to a swing state."
Drive for Change events and carpools are being organized every weekend in a numerous states. You can visit your state page for info on local caravans, or you can sign up to make phone calls from home. No matter where you live, you have too have a role to play.
www.barackobama.com

Treasurer And Labor Commissioner Host Forum On Obama's Oregon Economic Plan

John Griswold — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:37:15 EDT

Oregonians Affected by State's Economic Downturn to Participate in Discussion

PORTLAND, OR - This Thursday, Oregon State Treasurer Randall Edwards and Labor Commissioner
Brad Avakian will announce how Obama's Oregon economic plan with help Oregon's working families and host an economic forum alongside Oregonians affected by the economic downturn.

As the country faces more job losses, rising high gas prices and financial turmoil on Wall Street, Oregon's economy has been severely affected. State unemployment reached 6.5 percent in August, leaving more than 123,000 Oregonians without jobs. Since President Bush took office, gas prices in Oregon have gone up 161 percent and housing prices continue to fall.

Oregonians can't afford four more years of these same failed economic policies. Edwards and Avakian will discuss how Obama's Oregon economic plan will provide Oregonians with immediate economic
and energy relief, real tax relief, as well as, how his plan will help those facing foreclosure and help get the Oregon economy back on track.

WHO: Oregon State Treasurer Randall Edwards,
Oregon Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian,
Oregonians effected by the economic downturn in Oregon

WHAT: Forum announcing Obama's Oregon Economic Plan

WHEN: Thursday, September 25, 2008
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. PST

WHERE: Barack Obama's Campaign for Change Headquarters
3016 SE Division Avenue
Portland, OR

Becoming truly informed; what our legislative branch of government is doing everyday

Beth from Albany Oregon — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:14:42 EDT

If you ever want to know what our elected officials are voting on every day you may want to read further.
I have come to realize that it is my responsibility and is so important to keep apprised of what our elected officials are debating and voting on every day. I grasped how vital it is for me to be the most informed person that I can be in order to have any influence or say in any of these proposed bills, I would need to stay up to date with the daily floor activities of each the house and senate activities.
Additionally, I felt it was very important that even before these bills are offered for debate on the legislative branch’s floor, I would like to know what bills were being considered, who was on the committees for these bills, if any, and how the bill is written. This also includes the political issue calling for transparency of earmarks or lobbyist influence or even who is supporting a specific bill.
The average citizen either does not know how to get information about bills from inception to floor debate, how the bill is voted upon, or lastly, who voted for or against the bill.
I found that C-Span does cover some of the daily activities of these legislative events, without interruption or commentary. I found this insight into the operations, rules, and design of how bills are presented and voted on in both the House and Senate. However, it is not something that I would suggest anyone to watch for more than a day or so; mostly because after awhile, it becomes monotonous and very boring.
After a day of watching, I decided to google the possibility of finding the current day’s presentation and debate of each bill. It took some time, but I eventually found just such sites for each the House and the Senate. Both have the current day’s proceedings and previous days also. These sites are reporting in nearly real time, thus you can know what is being presented with a small description of the proposed bill and other such actions and debates concerning the bill at nearly real time.
I felt that this information has become so extremely important because of concerns of our current state of affairs in this Country. Today, September 23, 2008, there has been some movement toward helping “Main Street” rather than “Wall Street.”
In the senate however, debate is ongoing concerning the Wall Street bailout. C-SPAN has not been covering too much of these debates, but what little I did see, was very contested by many Senators. Also their website shows they have not passed any bill since, yesterday, thus the Senate is spending their entire day on a resolution to a problem that has occurred in this historic period of our Country.
Below are the two Web sites for each legislative branch that gives information in regards to this discussion:
House of Representatives' daily Bills proposed and the actions of those bills Link: http://clerk.house.gov/floorsummary/floor.html Select the date you wish to view.
Senate’s Bills presented on the floor for vote recently Link: http://www.senate.gov/pagelayout/legislative/g_three_sections_with_teasers/legislative_home.htm
Under "Recent Floor Activity," Choose a date within the last five days, then select “Daily Digest.” Currently, today’s activities are not appearing on the site; you can only select yesterday's date. However, I believe this is because this entire day, September 23, 2008, has been devoted to the 700 billion dollar bale out.

National Day of Service On September 27

Tom — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 01:00:13 EDT

We have just launched a new web site called Citizen Service for Obama at http://www.citizenserviceforobama.org. The site is designed to provide information on where and how to become involved in public service as a volunteer.

We hope to connect Obama supporters to more than 2500 community service events in all 50 states as part of a National Service Day of Action on September 27, 2008.

We feel that Obama supporters can show their enthusiasm for the campaign by participating in local community events.  When a group of Obama supporters participates in local volunteer events, it shows that we are interested in doing more than just talking about service.

CitizenServiceForObama.org (http://www.citizenserviceforobama.org) provides event information where Obama supporters can give back to their communities, in the same spirit that Senator Obama passed up lucrative job offers on Wall Street after law school to serve struggling communities on Chicago’s South side. The National Service Day of Action on September 27 provides an opportunity for all Americans to be engaged and improve their communities.

We want to invite everyone to visit the site, check out the information, and use these community service events to promote the Obama campaign to continue in our efforts to elect Barack Obama the next President.  You can also register on the site for future information on service events – including those after November 4.

Senator Obama has been a strong supporter of national service. In December 2007 he unveiled his plan to expand AmeriCorps slots and increase opportunities for all Americans to volunteer.  On September 11, 2008, he participated in the ServiceNation Presidential Forum in New York City on national service where he said, "Part of what makes America work is the fact that we believe in individual responsibility and self-reliance, but we also believe in mutual responsibility, in neighborliness, in a sense that we are committed to something larger than ourselves."

The site is not associated with the official Obama campaign or web site. We have been inspired by Senator Obama’s message of service and we just want him to win.

##

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

John Griswold — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:54:01 EDT
CHICAGO, IL - On Wednesday, the Obama campaign 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.

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

Idea for campaign buttons: "Ask me why I'm voting for Obama"

David D — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:18:24 EDT

Do any of you make and distribute buttons, pins, etc.? Here's a suggestion:

Make buttons that say

"Ask me why I'm voting for Obama"

I think the person-to-person discussion they'd invite has already been one of the biggest strengths of Obama's campaign, and this would amplify that!

And I think they'd put out a much more engaging, friendly vibe than plain old "CANDIDATE'S NAME/PICTURE" buttons.

(A lot of people would love to share with strangers their ideas of why Obama's their candidate, but, like most normal people, they don't habitually strike up conversations with random strangers! These buttons would at least invite the strangers to reach out.)

What do you think? I say make 'em, give 'em out, or sell 'em and donate the profits!

New Ad: "What Kind"

John Griswold — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:53:49 EDT

Obama Campaign Launches Response TV Ad Called "No Maverick"

John Griswold — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:48:46 EDT
Obama Campaign Launches Response TV Ad Called "No Maverick"
Highlights How McCain and Palin are Not Mavericks, They Are Just More of The Same

CHICAGO, IL - Today, in response to the McCain ad "Maverick", the Obama campaign released a new 30-second TV ad, No Maverick.

Help Out With "Barack To School"

John Griswold — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:21:32 EDT

Last week, Barack officially accepted the Democratic nomination for president at the historic Open Convention in Denver.

Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Democrats up and down the ballot can bring change to Oregon and America this fall, but it will take thousands of new voices joining the political process to make it happen.

With Oregon students arriving at school this month and thousands of unregistered voters tuning into politics during the conventions, now is the perfect time to reach out to them through our "Barack to School" voter registration drive.

This weekend, fellow supporters will be coming together at schools, farmers markets, and door-to-door in neighborhoods like yours to help bring the change this country needs.

Find an event near you and sign up now to join your fellow supporters this weekend.

After a successful Weekend of Action over Labor Day, we have just a few weeks left to register thousands of voters in Oregon.

No one of us could do this alone, but with this grassroots movement growing across the state, we can do this together.

No experience is required to get involved. Just bring your enthusiasm and hunger for change -- Campaign for Change staff will be there with all the support you need.

Face-to-face contact is the best way to connect with fellow Oregonians and give people the power to participate in our system.

Sign up today for a voter registration event in your area:

http://or.barackobama.com/baracktoschool .

Thanks for your help,

Jesse

Jesse Bontecou
Oregon Field Director
Campaign for Change

August Jobs Report Shows Unemployment At Highest Level Since September 2003

John Griswold — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:28:02 EDT

AUGUST JOBS REPORT SHOWS UNEMPLOYMENT AT HIGHEST LEVEL SINCE SEPTEMBER 2003

Oregonians have lost 10,400 jobs since Bush took office, Obama's plan would provide Oregon's economy with over $621,218,856

Portland, OR - Today, the Labor Department released the August jobs report showing the eighth straight month of job losses. The unemployment rate has jumped to 6.1% and approximately 84,000 jobs have been lost over the last month. So far, the economy has lost 605,000 jobs in 2008, and right now more than 9 million Americans are looking for work.

Oregon's economy has not escaped the national downturn. Since Bush took office, the unemployment rate in Oregon is 6%, and the state has lost 10,400, 8,900 of which were manufacturing jobs.

Sen. Obama would enact an immediate economic stimulus plan that would provide 1.8 million workers in Oregon with Obama's Making Work Pay tax cut of $500 per worker and $1000 per family, providing Oregon's economy with over $621,218,856. Sen. Obama's statement is below.

"Today's jobs report is a reminder of what's at stake in this election - John McCain showed last night that he is intent on continuing the economic policies that just this year have caused the American economy to lose 605,000 jobs. John McCain may believe that the fundamentals of our economy are 'strong,' but the working men and women I meet every day are working harder for less, the typical working age family's income is down $2,000 since George Bush took office, and their purchasing power is as low as it's been in a decade. John McCain's answer is more of the same: $200 billion in tax cuts to big corporations and oil companies, and not one dime of tax relief to more than 100 million middle-class families. If I am President, I will cut taxes for 95% of all working families and provide an immediate $50 billion to struggling states so that they don't have to cut back on health care and education and can rebuild roads and schools. That's the change working families need right now," said Senator Barack Obama.

Barack Obama will work hard to solve this economic crisis and help American families. To read more about Barack Obama's plan to jumpstart our economy, provide middle class Americans tax relief, create jobs, support small businesses, and address the mortgage crisis, visit http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/ .

Want to share your thoughts on the economy? Click here , and let your voice be heard.

Republicans for Obama Launch and Press Conference

John Griswold — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:03:34 EDT

Wednesday, prominent Oregonians from across the Portland area gathered to announce the launch of Republicans for Obama. This group of former and currently-registered Republicans endorsed Barack Obama for President and announced their efforts in the state of Oregon to help Sen. Obama win in November.

The group discussed how Bush's failures and Obama's policies drew them to come out for the candidates, as well as their efforts to bring fellow Republicans and independents in the state over to support Obama.

Don Holden, a retired Army Colonel who served in WWII in Europe and on Okinawa, shared these words with the crowd:
I was a lifetime Eisenhower Republican until the Bush Administration's ill-conceived preemptive invasion of Iraq, which I consider to be the biggest strategic blunder in my lifetime. Obama and Biden understand that going to war should only be considered as a last resort after all diplomatic means have been exhausted, the objective is clearly defined, and our vital national interest is at stake. My grandson served a year in Iraq and is still in the National Guard. Obama and Biden understand that the National Guard and reserves were never intended to be used as a foreign occupation force for an indefinite period of time.

Mary Jean Rivera, a former elementary and junior high school principal, had this to say about Senator Obama:
It's time for a change, for a change who can present and hold up our American ideals once agina. I am impressed by Obama's thoughtful and principled approach. Obama and Biden will certainly have my vote!

George Atiyeh, an airline pilot, delivered this statement:
I am a lifelong Republican and former and former Army Reserve officer who has watched and participated in picking the President since Ike Eisenhower. For the last eight years, I have witnessed our Republican Party lose its direction, rot its roots, and no longer resemble the party I grew up in... Eight years ago, John McCain represented change, but now he too has lost his way and has embraced the policies of George W. Bush. Barack Obama, in contrast, is prepared to turn this country around and get us back on track. Rarely do we, as Americans, have the opportunity to elect a man who has the potential to bring real positive change. Barack Obama is that man and he has my wholehearted support and I intend to work for him, not just for myself but for my eight grandchildren.

Are you a Republican who plans on supporting Barack Obama in November? Let us know.

Weekend of Action: Obama Supporters Work for Change

John Griswold — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 21:37:01 EDT
Over Labor Day weekend, Oregonians across the state worked for change in Weekend of Action events.

Supporters in Salem spent their Saturday canvassing voters in their neighborhoods.

Corvallis held phone-banking and voter registration events throughout the weekend.

In Junction City and small towns across Oregon, supporters took time out of their weekend to share Barack Obama's plan for America.

Albany supporters didn't let Sunday's weather keep them from lending a hand.

The Weekend of Action was a great success, with Campaign for Change events taking place in all 36 of Oregon's counties. There is still time to get involved in this historic movement. Visit your local Campaign for Change office to find out more. Or click here to lend a hand.

Now is a great time to get involved. Change can't happen without you.

Campaign For Change Office Collect For Gulf Coast Relief

John Griswold — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:07:55 EDT

OBAMA FOR OREGON AND CAMPAIGN FOR CHANGE OFFICES TO COLLECT FOR GULF COAST HURRICANE RELIEF

OFFICES WILL COLLECT WATER AND NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS

PORTLAND, OR- Today, Obama for Oregon and Oregon Campaign for Change announced that all offices in Oregon will accept donations of non-perishable food items to aid the people of the Gulf Coast in the wake of Hurricane Gustav.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the residents and responders in the Gulf Coast," said Sahar Wali, Obama's Oregon spokeswoman. "We have a strong base of Oregonians who want to be active and give back, and the campaign will do what it can to help with relief and recovery efforts."

Yesterday, the Obama-Biden campaign activated its donor and volunteer network of millions of Americans to mobilize on behalf of storm victims by sending donations to the Red Cross. Obama for American and the Campaign for Change encourage Oregonians interested in providing financial assistance to visit www.or.barackobama.com to be linked to organizations providing relief in the region.

WHO: Obama for Oregon and Barack Obama's Campaign for Change

WHAT: Gulf Coast relief non-perishable food collection drive

WHEN: Beginning Tuesday, September 2, 2008

WHERE: Campaign for Change offices statewide

Click here to find your local Campaign for Change office.

Weekend of Action: Obama Supporters Active All Across Oregon

John Griswold — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:25:11 EDT
Following Senator Barack Obama's landmark speech last Thursday in Denver, many Oregonians found themselves asking "what can I do to help?" Whether they had been making calls every weekend since March, or had never knocked a door or registered a voter before, men and women across the state looked to channel their energy inspired by Barack's words into action, into the sort of grassroots organizing that will bring substantive change to our country.

It was in light of this inspiration, and the three day weekend afforded to most Oregonians by the Labor Day holiday, that Barack Obama's Campaign for Change held canvasses in all 36 counties in Oregon. This was the first time in history that a volunteer effort of this scale had taken place.

Supporters young and old reached out across Oregon: they made phone calls to undecided voter in Medford, sharing their personal reasons why they support Obama; they went door to door to speak face to face with their neighbors about Obama in towns like La Grande, Astoria, Grants Pass, and Bend; they held voter registration drives at a University of Oregon football game in Eugene, at a rally in NE Portland.

The Weekend of Action marked the latest chapter in a campaign that has been built and powered by grassroots activism, by ordinary Americans taking a few hours from their busy lives to work for the sort of change they want to see in the world. Thanks so much to all of the volunteers who put time aside from their busy schedules this weekend to lend a hand. This campaign is about you, and it couldn't exist without you.

This is the time to get involved. Even if you've never volunteered before, visit your local Campaign for Change office and signup to help out . Become a part of this historical movement. Remember: change can't happen without you.

Help Gulf Coast residents and first responders

John Griswold — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 15:02:54 EDT

Today, the thoughts and prayers of all Americans are with those in the path of Hurricane Gustav -- and many of you are asking what you can do to help.

We do not yet know what the impact of Hurricane Gustav will be, and we hope with all our hearts that the damage will not be as great as it was three years ago.

But we know there will be damage, and there is something you can do right now.

Your financial support will strengthen organizations like the American Red Cross that are evacuating Gulf Coast residents and planning to help communities get back on their feet.

Make a donation to support the American Red Cross today .

At times like this, it is our compassion and resilience that define who we are as a nation.

Please give whatever you can afford, even $10, to make sure the American Red Cross has the resources to help those in the path of this storm:

https://donate.barackobama.com/redcross

Thank you for your generosity, and I hope you will join Michelle and me in praying for the safety of those in the path of the storm and the first responders who are doing all they can to ensure the safety of their communities.

-Barack

Oregonians Gather to Watch Obama Accept Historic Nomination

John Griswold — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 23:07:04 EDT

Last night, supporters across Oregon and the country watched as history was made. Before thousands of supporters in Denver, and with millions watching across America, Senator Barack Obama took to the stage and accepted the Democratic Party's nomination for President of the United States of America. Obama spoke of uniting a country that has seen eight years fall short of its dreams, of common ground, of the need for Americans of every strip and background to come together to confront and overcome the significant challenges that face us. As he spoke that night, Obama offered legitimate hope, he offered pragmatic methods, he offered a change from the direction of the last eight years. And now, with less than 70 days until Americans will issue a referendum on these past eight years, when we will speak up and elect a new leader, the time has never been better to join the Campaign for Change.
Become involved, let your voice be heard, and be a part of this historical movement.
Portland

La Grande

Salem

Bend

Medford

NE Portland

Beaverton

Roseburg

Oregonians Respond To Selection Of Palin As Running Mate

John Griswold — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:25:24 EDT
OREGONIANS RESPOND TO SELECTION OF PALIN AS RUNNING MATE
Say Palin is not a game changer and will only continue more of the same

PORTLAND, OR - Today, on his 72nd birthday, Sen. John McCain announced first-term Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his Vice-Presidential running mate. Prior to serving as Governor of Alaska, a state with a total population less than Multnomah County, Palin served as a part-time Mayor of Wasilla, AK, a town of less than 9,000. Oregonians' responses to the McCain-Palin ticket are below.

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski: "Today, John McCain has put Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, a governor who has only been in office for less than two years, with zero foreign policy experience, a heartbeat away from the presidency. John McCain, himself, said that a president must have 'the national security experience and background to lead this nation'. When you compare her credentials with Sen. Joe Biden, who is chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and one of the foremost foreign policy experts who has met with both allies and enemies, it's clear that the Obama-Biden ticket is the right choice with the judgment we need to keep America safe in the years ahead."

U.S. Rep. Darlene Hooley (D-Ore.): "Today, Sen. John McCain has provided yet another example of his questionable judgment and put Gov. Sarah Palin, the former part-time mayor of a town of 9,000, a heartbeat away from the presidency. This pick had nothing to do with being qualified to be president, which Gov. Palin clearly isn't. It had everything to do with McCain trying to salvage his campaign."

U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.): "Frankly, I'm surprised by the pick. For John McCain to put so much focus on national security experience and then pick Gov. Sarah Palin, who has no foreign policy experience whatsoever, shows he lacks the judgment we need in our president. McCain may think this is a game changer, but Gov. Palin doesn't change the fact that the Republican ticket is offering more of the same instead of the change we need."

Susan Castillo, Oregon Superintendant of Public Instruction: "Barack Obama is right, McCain is not the one to bring about change and by adding Palin to the ticket we'll just get more of the same. Sarah Palin shares John McCain's commitment to overturning Roe v. Wade and to continuing George Bush's failed economic and energy policies. It's clear that McCain's choice of Palin has more to do with trying to light up his dim campaign than it does about making the right choice to lead our nation. As a woman, this strengthens my resolve to work even harder to get Obama-Biden elected to bring the change we need."

Jeff Cogen, Multnomah County Commissioner, District 2: "We wouldn't put a two year county commissioner of Multnomah County a single heartbeat away from the presidency, especially when you consider that John McCain is twenty three years older than the State of Alaska."

Watch as History is Made

John Griswold — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 11:32:46 EDT

On August 28th, Barack Obama will accept the Democratic nomination in front of more than 75,000 supporters in Denver and millions of viewers at home.

It's only through the hard work and dedication of supporters like you that Barack is able to accept the Democratic nomination.

With less than 75 days left until Election Day, we cannot let up now.

Convention Watch Parties will be taking place all across Oregon, and attending one is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this historic nomination, meet local campaign staff and supporters, and plan for the days leading up to November 4th.

Click here to attend an official Campaign for Change watch party, and be there to watch as history is made.

Oregonians Host Women for Obama House Parties

John Griswold — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:06:59 EDT
Yesterday, women across Oregon gathered to celebrate the 88th anniversary of The Nineteenth Amendment, which gave women the right to vote in the United States. This historical event was paid fitting tribute by Senator Hillary Clinton, whose own historical campaign in the Democratic primaries this year placed, as Senator Clinton put it, "18,000,000 cracks in the glass ceiling".

Supporters gathered in homes throughout Oregon and across the country, some sharing their experiences from the primaries, some discussing their opinions and the great strides made in that contest, and all of them watching as Senator Clinton gave a stirring speech. "Whether you voted for me, or voted for Barack, the time is now to unite as a single party with a single purpose," Clinton said, asking democrats and Americans of all stripes to come together and work to elect Barack Obama this November.

There are less than 70 days until Election Day. As Senator Clinton said, we can't afford four more years of the last eight years in John McCain. Volunteer today , become part of this historic movement, and help bring hope and change to Oregon.

Oregonians Respond to News of Obama-Biden Ticket

John Griswold — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 21:36:29 EDT

PORTLAND, OR – Yesterday, Sen. Barack Obama announced Sen. Joe Biden as his vice-presidential running mate before a crowd of tens of thousands in Springfield, Ill. Responses from elected officials and community leaders from across Oregon are below.

State Sen. Margaret Carter, President Pro Tempore (D-Portland): “Democrats have a dream team! An Obama-Biden ticket brings together the experience, leadership and vision necessary to bring peace to the world, and make America strong abroad again.”

State Sen. Ben Westlund (D-Tumalo), Democratic Candidate for Oregon Treasurer: “I am very
pleased with Barack’s choice for Vice President. Joe Biden is a strong long leader on national defense and understands the challenges facing today’s working families. He has the right priorities.”

State Rep. Mary Nolan (D-Portland): “Joe Biden has been an exemplary leader on women’s issues, giving voice to them on a federal level. Obama’s choice of Biden sends a clear message that this next administration will prioritize women and such policies as gender-based crimes, choice, domestic violence, equal pay and health care. This ticket speaks to strength and unity. I am excited and confident in this pair!”

State Rep. Brad Witt (D-Clatskanie): "Joe Biden is the right partner for Barack Obama. His many years of distinguished service to America, his seasoned judgment and his vast experience in foreign policy is the kind of leadership we need. An Obama-Biden ticket is a very impressive and strong team, and is the balanced ticket that America is looking to vote for. It is one that promises to honor working men and women of this country.”

Susan Castillo (State Superintendant of Public Instruction): "Senator Obama's choice of Joe Biden for Vice President demonstrates again that he knows what kind of leadership our country needs today to move us forward. Senator Biden has had the courage to lead on a wide range of issues--foreign policy, national security, and public safety. He also knows that investing in our people through increasing access to education will create a stronger United States of America. I am excited and inspired to support Biden as the vice-presidential running mate."

KC Hanson, Chair of the Multnomah County Democratic Party: “Joe Biden is one of the most
astute members in Congress on foreign policy, whose experience and expertise will no doubt benefit America, but also the rest of the world. His depth of understanding on domestic issues and foreign affairs is unmatched. Together, Barack and Joe Biden provide the American people with the leadership they deserve.”

Rev. Alcena Boozer: “The first thing I thought of was that it was an inspirational choice. I think that
Biden’s experience on the foreign relations committee brings good strength and compliments Obama’s strengths as well. I watched Sen. Biden’s speech accounting for the Republicans’ use of slander and dirty politics – shaming it as not being the American way. To see someonestanding up for that is helpful to bring us back to the real issues. That is the way it should be.”

Michelle Singer (First American): “I am excited to know that Joe Biden has been selected as Barack Obama’s Vice President. Joe Biden certainly has vision and underscores the same message of change that Barack Obama does. He has been a senior statesmen in the Senate, pushing the envelope and making sure there is accountability and transparency in our government, but also holding both sides of the aisle accountable for their actions and making sure that all folks are able to share the American dream. Because of his expertise on foreign policy, intelligence, arms control, and national security, he has been there for our nation’s veterans, and those fighting on the front lines -- all along with empowering the grass roots. I am very happy with this choice.”

Liz Kauffman (Oregon delegate): “The Obama-Biden team is a perfect balance and forward looking leadership for our country. I am so excited to support this ticket, which offers fresh new leadership and escape from four more years of Bush -- and a thoughtful seriousness about the challenges we face and how to take them on!”

Charlie Burr (Environmental Activist) “Joe Biden understands that investing in clean energy makes America safer and more secure. And Biden will help fight for a sound energy policy that not only creates good jobs for our country, but reduces our reliance on unstable and hostile parts of the world for our energy needs. Today's pick is a great example of the judgment and leadership that will make Obama a great president. Go Obama-Biden!”

Barack Obama Has Chosen A Running Mate

John Griswold — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:25:32 EDT
I have some important news that I want to make official.

I've chosen Joe Biden to be my running mate.

Joe and I will appear for the first time as running mates this afternoon in Springfield, Illinois -- the same place this campaign began more than 19 months ago.

I'm excited about hitting the campaign trail with Joe, but the two of us can't do this alone. We need your help to keep building this movement for change.

Please let Joe know that you're glad he's part of our team. Share your personal welcome note and we'll make sure he gets it:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/ORwelcomejoe

Thanks for your support,

Barack

P.S. -- Make sure to turn on your TV at 2:00 p.m. Central Time to join us or watch online at http://www.BarackObama.com

How Many Houses Does John McCain Have?

John Griswold — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:48:13 EDT

CHICAGO - Today, the Obama campaign released a new 30-second TV ad, Seven, discussing just how out of touch John McCain is with the struggles of everyday people. The ad highlight's John McCain's desire to just offer more of the same economic policies we've gotten from President Bush, as just yesterday he declared "the fundamentals of our economy are strong" and lost track of how many houses he owns.

Oregon Campaign Staff Discuss Strategy With Press

John Griswold — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:34:59 EDT

OBAMA CAMPAIGN LAYS OUT OREGON AS MAJOR PART OF NATIONAL STRATEGY TOWARD VICTORY

Sen. Wyden & Senior Staff Release Details On Obama's Campaign for Change Structure, Outreach and Field Plan

PORTLAND, OR - U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden and Obama for America Oregon State Director Rob Hill held a conference call with reporters today to discuss the campaign's strategy for victory in Oregon.

"The Obama campaign believes that Oregon is central to our ability to win the presidency," said Hill. "Historically, Oregon has been closer in presidential elections than its neighboring states. In 2004, Kerry went into Election Day with an eight point lead and won by only four percent. In 2000, Gore won by less than one percent of the vote. We are expecting a very close race in Oregon and we are going to fight hard."

Read the full press release here .

A win in Oregon this year will be an absolutely critical aspect of winning the presidency on November 4th, and the the time has never been better to get involved in your community to help make sure Barack Obama brings change to the White House. Thousands of Oregonians have already volunteered. Now is your chance to get involved in this historic campaign. You can help Barack from the comfort of your home using the Neighbor to Neighbor tool . Or visit any Campaign for Change office to find out how you can help .

Who Will Be Barack's VP? Be The First to Know.

John Griswold — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:40:33 EDT

Dear John --

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

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Oregon Credentials to the 2008 Democratic National Convention

John Griswold — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:25:40 EDT

Released today:

OREGON OBAMA CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCES DRAWING FOR ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY CREDENTIALS FOR NATIONAL CONVENTION

Oregon’s community credential recipients to attend fourth night acceptance speech at Democratic National Convention in Denver.
PORTLAND, OR – Today, the Oregon Obama campaign announced plans for distribution of additional community credentials for the fourth night, August 28th, of the 2008 Democratic National Convention at INVESCO Field at Mile High in Denver, CO.

“We are thrilled to be able to give Oregonians from across the state the opportunity to attend America’s convention and to witness Barack Obama’s historic acceptance of the Democratic nomination for President of the United States,” said Rob Hill, Oregon State Director for the Obama Campaign.

“One of the best ways we can introduce Oregon voters to our campaign and to our vision for this country is by getting them involved in the Convention,” said Obama for America National Co-Chair Federico Peña. “We are delighted that these community credentials are being allocated to the state. It will allow Oregonians of all parties who want to take a look and listen to our message of hope the chance to do so in person.”

Due to the limited number of credentials, Obama for Oregon and the Campaign for Change will be conducting a drawing to distribute available credentials to Oregonians who register between August 6th and August 12th by visiting any one of the Campaign for Change offices across the state or by calling the Oregon Campaign for Change headquarters at 503-236-2008. For more information or for office locations please visit OR.barackobama.com.

Walk-in and telephone entries will be taken from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm daily, between the 6th and 12th of August. No entries will be taken after 9:00 pm on Tuesday, August 12th.   For entry into the drawing, all callers must answer questions on how they logistically plan to get to Denver. Requests will then be entered into the drawing for distribution of credentials.

On Wednesday, August 13th, the Oregon Campaign for Change will notify individuals via phone that they have been selected to receive community credentials. Individuals who are not selected for credentials will remain on a waiting list in case slots become available. The Campaign for Change will set up distribution centers across Oregon for community credential pick-up.

Sahar Wali
Oregon Communications Director
Obama for America

New TV Ad on Obama's New Energy Plan for America

John Griswold — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:59:08 EDT

Obama's comprehensive New Energy for America plan will:

-Provide short‐term relief to American families facing pain at the pump
-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.
-Within 10 years save more oil than we currently import from the Middle East and Venezuela combined.
-Put 1 million Plug‐In Hybrid cars - cars that can get up to 150 miles per gallon - on the road by 2015, cars that we will work to make sure are built here in America.
-Ensure 10 percent of our electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
-Implement an economy‐wide cap‐and‐trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.

Find out more about Senator Obama's New Energy for America plan here .

NE Portland Campaign for Change Office Opens With Style

John Griswold — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 03:21:21 EDT

Last Thursday, the place to be in N/NE Portland was 1516 NE Killingsworth St. That's the location of the new Campaign for Change office, and several hundred supporters turned up for BBQ, community, and to share their passion for Senator Obama and bringing Change to Oregon.

The crowd listened as special guests Shirley Minor and Jeff Merkley laid out the course for how supporters can help both campaigns in the coming months. The crowd took their words to heart and, in addition to consuming over 70lbs of ribs (served up courtesy of Master Chef Mr. LC Oddie), supporters old and new signed up for over 250 new volunteer shifts. Can you find a few hours between now and November 4th to help bring Change to your community ? Thanks to Scott Batchelar and Ethan Jewett for the great photos.

Did you know it's Barack's Birthday this Monday, August 4th? Click here to give him a gift. It doesn't cost a dime. And click here to find a Campaign for Change office in your community.

Beaverton and the Campaign For Change

John Griswold — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:10:37 EDT

Last Thursday, Beaverton welcomed the Campaign for Change to Washington county with the official office opening potluck. Over 300 supporters stopped by to take part in the festivities and find out how they could help bring real change to their community and make Barack Obama the next President of the United States. Field Organizers Caleb Hayes and Alejandro Hoekstra have been hard at work engaging with the community in voter registration drives for several weeks, and the opening part gave supporters a chance to hear how the Campaign is active in Washington county and across Oregon.

Supporter Astrid Harmon describes the event: "People from all backgrounds came to celebrate and over 100 signed up to volunteer. The excitement and enthusiasm even translated to the street, where hundreds of cars honked and gave a thumbs up to the Obama volunteers waving signs."

The crowd listened as special guests State Senator Suzanne Bonamici and State Representative Larry Galizio spoke.

Change cannot happen without you. Voter Registration efforts will continue through the summer, and Barack needs you to lend a hand. Sign up here to volunteer in Oregon, and click here to find an office near you. Interested in an internship? Click here .

Introducing Neighbor to Neighbor

John Griswold — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 20:54:14 EDT
In keeping with the theme of empowering and including people across the United States, Barack Obama’s Campaign for Change in Oregon is about to introduce a revolutionary new tool to the supporters and grassroots activists across the state.

It’s called Neighbor to Neighbor, or “N2N”, and it is just what it sounds like: a tool for supporters to reach out to their neighbors with Barack Obama’s message of change. The N2N program allows anyone with internet access and a will to contact people in their immediate community to get out and knocking on doors the very day they signup. And because nobody knows your neighborhood better than you, who better to contact the people who make up your community?

Canvassing has been proven to be the most effective way of contacting voters. What is going to be a more compelling contact for the average person: an email or phonecall from a source you might not know be familiar with, or having a smiling face that you may recognize at your door, a volunteer taking time out of their lives to talk to you about a cause they believe in? Neighbor-to-Neighbor has the potential to bring this level of familiarity in organizing to communities, this shared and intimate knowledge of an area on the smallest and most distinct level, on a scale that has never been seen before.

Getting started is simple; just signup at My.BarackObama.com, or click on the Neighbor-to-Neighbor link featured at the top of the Oregon page, OR.BarackObama.com. From there, interested parties will be given a brief video tutorial on canvassing, instruction on how to use the N2N tool, and how to report the results of their work. First time users can be out knocking doors and interacting with their neighbors within an hour. And, because N2N users have the convenience of making their own, personal canvassing packets at their fingertips, you can decide when you have the time to go canvassing. Sharing your enthusiasm for Barack Obama’s Campaign for Change has never been simpler.

Fourth of July in Oregon

John Griswold — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:33:52 EDT

People from across Oregon came out to celebrate our nation's Independence Day, and Obama supporters were out in droves. They marched in parades from Ashland to Astoria, attending backyard BBQs in Portland and Corvallis, and continued voter registration drives all across the state.

One supporter and veteran marched in an Ashland Parade alongside veterans of the Korean, Vietnam, and Iraq wars, as well as civilians. Thanks, Jay, for the pictures! And thank you to the men and women who serve and who have served to keep America free!

Do you have photos from your Fourth of July Obama event you'd like to share? Send them our way!

Voter registration efforts will continue throughout the fall. Sign up to help today

Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) endorses Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:43:59 EST

The Oregonian reports...
WASHINGTON - Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., on Friday endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for the Democratic presidential nomination.
In a conference call with reporters Friday morning, Blumenauer said he made up his mind during this week's annual conference of House Democrats in Virginia. Blumenauer said he heard colleagues from across the nation describe "examples of the same story of unprecedented energy, enthusiasm and optimism."
"This week helped me make up my mind between two great candidates that I was going to be supporting Sen. Obama," Blumenauer said.
Blumenauer's endorsement comes a few days after Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., endorsed Obama and Obama's large win in South Carolina.
Blumenauer was joined by Minnesota Congressman Jim Oberstar, the chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Oberstar had supported Edwards, who withdrew from the race earlier this week. On Friday, Oberstar announced his support of Obama.
"He has shown an ability to project a soaring image of a future for America, to lift the spirits of young people," Oberstar said.