Ozaukee County for Obama 08

Russ Feingold: Every Vote Makes a Difference

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:38:04 EDT

Joseph from HQ made stops up to the Fox River Valley Yesterday to swing by a pair of campus events with U.S. Russ Feingold. Here's what he found:

In front of two packed houses at Lawrence University in Appleton and University of Wisconsin in Oshkosh, Senator Russ Feingold encouraged students and non-students alike to give one final push in these last but crucial days of the campaign. At this point in the game, the most important thing a supporter can do to get Barack elected, is to help get out the vote, he told the cheering crowds.

Fiengold -- on a tour of six central Wisconsin college campuses this week -- set out to rally supporters and encourage them all to vote early. "It's important that as many people as possible are available to help on election day," Fiengold said.

The three-term U.S. Senator pointed to the first time he was elected as an example for why every ounce of help makes a difference. "In 1982, I ran for the State Senate. I was 29, running against a well-established 83 year-old incumbent. I knocked on over 15,000 doors and at first count, I had lost by 19 votes. After three weeks of recounting, I ended up winning by 31 votes. The only reason I'm here today is because of the hard work my supporters gave me a the last minute."

Take it as a lesson learned, he emphasized. "I need you to push at the last minute to get the kind of victory we need."

Working for Change in Kenosha

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:19:04 EDT

Here's another dispatch from Joseph here at HQ -- this time from Kenosha

When Richard first heard Barack Obama speak two years ago, he felt like he had stepped into a time machine and transported back to the 1970s, a time Richard remembers, as one filled with hope and endless possibilities.

"I felt we had hope for a change. When I left the rally, I felt enlightened...Barack was a breath of fresh air."

The long-time Kenosa resident is joined by Jeremy in holding hope for a better future. The economics student is a former Republican who grew disillusioned with the divisive politics of the GOP and John McCain. He points to Barack's ability to bridge the gap between Democrats and Republicans as a necessary and crucial step to helping America reach its potential.

"I feel that Barack's absolutely inclusive of all people. He's the leader that wil make decisions that help everyone in this country. Seeing Colin Powell support Obama was something else. He's a former hero of mine and to see him support someone I believe in is amazing."

He believes this campaign is about not only the economy, but also social issues. "Whether it's for LGBT rights or people with disabilities, I know Obama will do great work on that."

Richard, who suffers from a disability, complete's the circle:

"As handicapped people, we're not treated equally. I think Barack will make it better for everyone, for all human beings in this country."

Help get out the vote for Barack Obama today -- find your local Campaign for Change office, invite your friends and family to vote early or reach out to voters today!

Wausau Daily Herald Endorses Barack

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:42:55 EDT

The distinctly different challenges the United States faces today demand a deliberative, steady and thoughtful leader who will guide our nation through what are sure to be a very perilous next four years.

Barack Obama is the man for that job.

[...]

We base our endorsement not just upon Obama's promise of hope and change, but also upon his positions on issues of importance to Americans.

Read the entire editorial here.

Help get out the vote for Barack Obama today -- find your local Campaign for Change office, invite you friends and family to vote early or reach out to voters today!

"We have to Work like Our Future Depends on it this Last Week, Because it does Depend on it this Week"

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 23:15:45 EDT

See the whole speech here.

Help get out the vote for Barack Obama today -- find your local Campaign for Change office, invite you friends and family to vote early or reach out to voters today!

Bringing Hope to Janesville!

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:27:00 EDT
Joseph from HQ brings us another update from the road.

The Milton Street campaign office in Janesville has a unique buzz about it. Sure, it looks like your typical office -- mounds of paraphernalia posted on all the walls and windows, papers strewn about and empty boxes of candy stacked by the recycling bin -- but the people who volunteer in this office give it a much different feel.

Trying to sit down with any of the volunteers for a brief interview proves to be a small challenge. Every two minutes someone new walks into the office asking for a yard sign, stickers, or information on how to vote early. As one volunteer tends to the visitor, another walks in and is cared for by a second volunteer. The chatter brings the office to life; every sentence ends with an upwards, positive inflection. In a city that has been hit hard by the GM plant closing, this campaign has taken on a special meaning -- there's a cautious hope in the air.

John has lived in Janesville his entire life - over 40 years. He voted for Barack Obama in the primaries, inspired by his economic policy. "His message is really important here in Janesville, he says. John's brother has worked at GM for over 20 years and has been hit hard by news of the closing. John was encouraged by Barack's emphasis on having the federal government assist the auto industry:

"Janesville has been making SUVs; our hope is that another product could be lined up. It's something that speaks to us because the economy is in precarious shape."

"Just seeing the decay of the middle class" spurns Lisa, another dedicated volunteer at this office, as she explains why she and her husband got involved in a political campaign for the first time in their lives. "I heard Barack speak and he stirred something in me like never before." Lisa wants to see the America she remembers returned:

"He made me feel like there was hope for this country, the country I grew up in, the one my father fought for in World War Two."

The Kenosha News Endorses Barack Obama

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 08:12:56 EDT

We strongly encourage readers to vote for Barack Obama for president.

[...]

By contrast [to McCain's campaign], Obama has been steady, thoughtful and inspirational. His "change-we-can-believe-in" campaign inspired thousands of people to get involved in politics for the first time. He's a Harvard lawyer, but he worked as a community organizer and consumer advocate before he went to law school. He has risen from humble beginnings to run for president.

In this brilliant campaign, he has earned our vote.

You can find the whole editorial here.

Help get out the vote for Barack Obama today -- find your local Campaign for Change office, invite you friends and family to vote early or reach out to voters today!

Looking at the Big Picture in Wisconsin Rapids

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:10:18 EDT
Here's another dispatch from Joseph from HQ -- this one comes from a recent stop in Wisconsin Rapids.

Nationwide, Barack Obama has inspired a generation of young Americans to get involved in the political process. Evidence of this is on full display at the Wisconsin Rapids field office. Walk in at 5:00 p.m. on any given day and you'll find Jamie working the phones tirelessly.

The 23 year-old University of Wisconsin graduate is an "intense" observer of politics. Having started out as a Republican in high school, she's now heavily involved in the campaign to get Barack Obama elected to the White House. She's doing so because she wants to see America live up to its promise:

"While Obama will have a heavy burden, I think he's better positioned to help our image abroad."

Having studied abroad and graduating with a degree in International Studies, Jamie is keeping a close eye on what this election means for America's position in the world. And she's not alone.

Sitting a couple feet over from her is Debby, a retired social worker who has also chosen to support Obama because of his foreign policy:

"The war is a major issue. I have been primarily concerned about people being killed in Iraq."

She means it. Debby, like Barack, has been against the War in Iraq since it began in 2003. Now she and her like-minded neighbors make phone calls every Sunday night to help promote Obama's plan to end the war responsibly. It's the first time Debby has been this involved in a presidential campaign and she attributes who motivation to Obama's youth and energy.

Join Jamie, Debby and the thousands of supporters around Wisconsin working for change this election season!Help get out the vote for Barack Obama today -- find your local Campaign for Change office, invite you friends and family to vote early or reach out to voters today!

Barack Obama is Endorsed by the La Crosse Tribune

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 13:50:20 EDT

The La Crosse Tribune endorses Sen. Barack Obama, the Democrat from Illinois, to provide the change in leadership, hope and vision we need to restore faith in our future and restore trust among our world partners.

[...]

Obama combines the discipline of pay-as-you-go budgeting with plans to reinvest in our crumbling national infrastructure and reduce our carbon emissions by 80 percent by the middle of this century -- a more thoughtful, visionary approach to an energy policy than simply crying, "Drill, Baby, Drill."

[...]

We believe Barack Obama will provide the leadership and inspiration we need.

Check out the whole endorsement. For a look back on Barack's visit to La Crosse earlier this month, click here and here.

Write a letter to the editor of you local newspaper and tell them why you support Barack!

Help get out the vote for Barack Obama today -- find your local Campaign for Change office, invite you friends and family to vote early or reach out to voters today!

The Chippewa Herald Endorses Barack Obama

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 11:12:09 EDT

Americans feel the need for new leadership, a renewal of our national spirit, and a desperate need to pull together in tough times.
This election is about such needs, not individual planks in a campaign platform. That's why the Herald endorses Barack Obama for president.
[...]
Restoring health to the nation's economy will be even more difficult considering the mess that the nation finds itself in at this point. It will likely require patience, sacrifice and a positive attitude from the American people. That will require inspirational leadership from the nation's president, and there is every reason to believe that is Obama's greatest strength.

Read the whole editorial here.

Help get out the vote for Barack Obama today -- find your local Campaign for Change office or invite you friends and family to vote early today!

Adams County is Ready for Change

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 09:49:32 EDT
Joseph from HQ is winding his way through the heat of America's Dairyland on his tour of the Badger State. He stopped by the Campaign for Change office in Adams County to check out what's been going on in central Wisconsin.

Adams may be a small town, but the folks here are pulling a herculean effort to bring a change to America.

"After the primaries, there was an expectation that Clinton supporters wouldn't come out for Obama," says Steve. "But there was none of that -- people jumped in to help Obama. I can't believe the number of volunteers we have."

It's not enough that this small town is focused on painting its own county blue on November 4th -- they're lending a hand to surrounding districts including Madison and Milwaukee.

So involved are they in helping Madison out, many will be voting early. "I'll be voting early because we're all going to Madison on Election Day to help get out the vote, says Bonnie, a frequent volunteer in the Adams office.

It's something Bonnie doesn't take for granted:

"Some people tell me they're not going to vote. But I tell them, 'you have to think ahead for your children and grandchildren."

Karen, a seasoned volunteer, has been phoning voters in Madison to encourage them to vote early "because lines will be long" on Election Day.

"I spoke to one man in La Crosse who waited four hours to vote in 2004. He got fed up and went home without voting, The voter turnout will be tremendous this year, and it's important to vote early."

It's incredible to see such a motivated community bringing change to neighboring communities. Help them make a difference. Call neighbors, volunteer, help get out the vote.

Don't delay! Email your friends and family today to vote early!

The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel Endorses Barack Obama

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 20:45:26 EDT

The Bush administration has bumbled from crisis to crisis for nearly eight years, competence gone AWOL. The nation needs resuscitating change like a new baby needs that first breath of air.

Two would-be successors pledge it. But Barack Obama is more believable. We recommend him to be the 44th president of the United States.

Obama's vision and potential to be that change agent trump his relative lack of experience, though the experience he possesses is valuable. The maturity and calm demeanor he has exhibited these past two years in the public spotlight and earlier, speak to able, careful, inclusive leadership. And he is simply the better of the two on the issues.

Read the whole editorial here.

Get involved! Help get out the vote for Barack Obama!

A Look at the Campaign for Change in Sauk County

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 18:33:10 EDT
Joseph from HQ sends more news from the road making a quick swing through Baraboo for a frop-by the Campaign for Change office in Sauk County. Here's what he found:

Throughout this campaign, Barack Obama has encouraged people to take ownership of the political process. That's exactly what a close-knit team of volunteers in Baraboo are doing.

Cynthia, a Michigan native who has lived in Baraboo for the past five years, volunteers three days a week, "I assist in the office. It's almost therapeutic."

Cynthia enjoys the bottom-up, grassroots approach that Obama has inspired. "I think Barack emphasizes we will work together, not I".

Working together has become a trademark for this team. "This team's done very well. They meet every Monday night and they all attend. They have taken on ownership of their roles," says Sarah, the Sauk County field organizer.

Team Leader Susan, a retired first-grade teacher is the architect of the team. Having volunteered on the Kerry campaign in 2004 she tapped her fellow '04 teammates to help Obama, and they were all eager to pitch in. "It's been a wonderful experience ever since," she says.

As fellow team member Nick, a 16-year resident of Baraboo, says, it's only natural in these circumstances:

You know when people are focused on something good, it's a momentous occasion. I've never seen anything like it in Baraboo before.

Join Cynthia, Susan and Nick in taking politics into your own hands -- get your friends to vote early or find the nearest Campaign for Change office and volunteer to Get out the Vote!

Vote With Your Friends!

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:54:57 EDT

There's still time to get your friends involved in Barack's movement for change.

Arrange a time to vote early with your friends today!

Barack is Endorsed by the Stevens Point Journal

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 10:38:01 EDT
The Stevens Point Journal is the latest Wisconsin newspaper to endorse Barack Obama:

[Obama's] campaign is rooted in providing hope and inspiring Americans to find new solutions to combat problems in this new century. This philosophy is important considering the challenges the next president will face during the next four years, among them crafting a new strategy for Iraq and a financial system in tatters in part because of the skewing of wealth into fewer hands.

Obama also has excited people about the democratic process like few candidates in recent memory. Millions of potential voters considered "on the fringe" -- young adults, African Americans and Latinos -- have been energized to become involved and active in government.

Join the movement for change -- sign up to help get out the vote today!

Voices for Change: Jean Marie in Madison

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 19:54:57 EDT

Our friend Joseph here at Wisconsin HQ is traveling around Wisconsin talking with some of the amazing volunteers who have made Barack's movement for change possible. Joseph will be filing reports from all over the Badger state during the next few days -- stop by for more great stories of remarkable people working for change.

Like many Obama supporters across the state, Jean Marie was inspired by Barack's message of hope and change to get involved in politics for the first time in her life.

I watched the primaries, and for Barack Obama to be our choice - I sat there in awe. I couldn't be more thrilled to do what it takes to get him elected.

Jean Marie -- a nurse at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and mother of four -- soon learned that she wasn't alone in her excitement for Barack's message of change. After visiting Barack's website and seeing an invitation to attend the opening of the Monroe Street Campaign for Change office in Madison, she chose to attend, and expected only a handful of people to attend.

But the place was packed -- overflowing onto the street, more than anyone could have imagined.

And she hasn't looked back since. Having logged over 800 phone calls since September, she has become an integral part of the campaign in Wisconsin. She's a phone bank virtuoso, using the phones to persuade folks from around the state to join Barack's movement for change, all the while recruiting out-of-state supporters to Drive to Wisconsin for Election Day

Jean Marie gets her energy from the people she speaks with. Her most memorable call was with Lois, a 74 year-old life-long Republican. Jean Marie was expecting the call to be hostile, but found that both Lois and her husband were leaning towards Obama.

After asking her why, we talked and we talked. This kind of work is about people's stories. Lois is courageous to be open-minded to think of changing her life-long affiliation.

Perhaps it's these kind of calls that help Jean Marie believe that "change is possible to take this titanic country and steer it in the right direction." She's keenly aware that there are still 11 long days left in this campaign. "We can't take anything for granted."

And so she will continue to be welcome fixture at the Monroe Street campaign office. Working overtime to get out the vote in Wisconsin, Jean Marie is no doubt an inspiration to those around her. Like so many others, she has taken ownership of this campaign.

There's only a few days left to join Join Jean Marie -- sign up to win Wisconsin for Barack today!

Gov. Janet Napolitano Barnstorms through Wisconsin

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 10:53:49 EDT
Arziona Governor Janet Napolitano began a tour of Wisconsin yesterday by stopping by the Campaign for Change's Madison field office.

From the Badger Herald:

“Wisconsin is a battleground state, and we have got to get the vote out,” Napolitano said. Napolitano emphasized the differences between Obama and Republican John McCain, who is also from Arizona, saying their economic policies differ greatly, with McCain giving tax cuts to the wealthy while Obama focuses more on the middle class.

Gov. Napolitano and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar also headlined the Democratic Party of Wisconsin's annual Elanor Roosevelt Dinner last night. From Wispolitics.com:

Napolitano said Eleanor Roosevelt’s call to women in 1933 to engage in the political process as never before and to unite to solve the nation’s problems remains essential to “the new New Deal that we’re going to inaugurate in this country in January.”

She recalled her work as chairwoman of the Democratic Party’s national platform committee, where she served with U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, in calling the Obama-Biden ticket “the strongest on women’s issues in history.”

Napolitano will be making appearances today in Stevens Point, Appleton, West Bend and Oak Creek.

News from Around Wisconsin

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 10:31:08 EDT
Former Republican State Senator Barbara Lorman of Jefferson County is endorsing Barack Obama. The trailblazing Lorman was the first Republican woman to serve in the state Senate and the first woman from any party to win re-election to the body.

From the Capital Times:

"I'm a lifelong Republican, but Senator Obama is the right leader for our country and will deliver the change we need," she says. "After taking a careful look at the qualities of both McCain and Obama and who would be best for our country, I found that Senator Obama's ability to bridge the partisan divide to work toward solid solutions that will get our nation back on the right track meant he is the right choice this November."

Lorman joins Republicans from all over the state in supporting Barack.

Early voting is a big hit in Milwaukee, according to WTMJ-4:

There are only two weeks until Election Day, but why wait?

You can vote now if you're ready.

An unprecedented number of people have already cast their ballot in Milwaukee.

The city is seeing 500 early voters a day, and they're not alone. It's been busy at city halls and town halls all across the state.

Don't wait! Vote today ... and bring your friends!

The Jefferson County Union was at UW-Whitewater yesterday, where Gov. Doyle recalled how he came to support Barack during Wisconsin's February primary:

[I]n my case, my two sons - one in his early thirties and one in his late twenties, along with my daughters-in-law - just kept after me to support (Obama)."

Doyle noted that at first, he gave his children pat answers.

"But then I decided I needed to look through their eyes, not necessarily my eyes," the governor recalled. "In their eyes, Barack Obama showed he was a candidate that could build a great future. He was a candidate that represented getting past political fights that have gone on for 40 years. The divisions that happened in the 1960s have been fighting for 40 years. With Obama, we had a candidate that was a candidate that showed us what the future could be."

And last, but not least, the Capital Times became the second Wisconsin newspaper to endorse Barack.

Read the whole editorial here.

Around Wisconsin: Campaign for Change is in Full Swing!

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:02:11 EDT
With only two weeks left until Wisconsin goes to the polls the Campaign for Change is charging to the finish line at full speed.

Here's some news from around the Badger State:

In Janesville the Gazette has a wonderful profile on the flurry of activity buzzing around the local Obama Campaign for Change office:

[Gina] Smith, 56, of Janesville is among hundreds of volunteers across the state who are spending several hours each week making phone calls and going door-to-door in their communities, talking to voters about Obama.

"(The local campaign headquarters) is the up-close and personal connection between the campaign and the community," said Phil Walzak, communications director for the Obama campaign in Wisconsin. "It's the vehicle by which our campaign talks to voters on a one-on-one basis. It's the home base for activity."

The Obama campaign is "robust" in Wisconsin with 50 offices across the state, not only in areas that are Democratic strongholds but also in areas that are staunchly Republican, he said. And the success of the campaign in a battleground state such as Wisconsin depends on volunteers who week after week spread the word about Obama, he said.

In Racine the Journal Times reports on a visit to the local Campaign for Change office by Gov. Jim Doyle. The paper notes that Barack's movement for change won't just stop on November 4th:

Earlier, while waiting for [Gov.] Doyle to appear, Obama volunteer Brent Nance of Caledonia said the grass-roots organization working on Obama's behalf will be active even beyond Nov. 4.

"Obama is taking his training (as a community political organizer) and spreading it nationwide," said Nance, an Obama "team member" for a segment of Caledonia. Each city has a set of teams, he explained, that work together and become acquainted with each other during the campaign.

"When the election is over, we'll still have a network," Nance said. "So when the next election happens, we don't have to start all over. You will see them more active on local issues."

And up in the Northwoods folks in Rhinelander welcomed Gov. Chet Culver of Iowa:

Democratic Governor Chet Culver spoke to nearly 50 people at the Rhinelander District Library this afternoon.

Culver emphasized Barack Obama's concern for Wisconsin's agriculture, small communities and renewable energy.

The Governor says the last 18 days of the election are important here in Wisconsin. "We've got work to do. And that's why I'm crisscrossing Iowa and criss crossing Wisconsina and working with my fellow Governors like Jim Doyle and others who are so excited about Barack Obama's candidacy."

Obama supporters at today's event say it's important to have other politicians endorse the candidates in smaller communities.

Alan Vanraalte, an Obama supporter, says, "I think it's absolutely vital that they do. if it weren't the candidates would be spread pretty thin and they need to go to where the population centers are."

There are only two weeks left to experience the beginning of Barack's movement for change!

Sing up to volunteer to canvass this weekend or for a get out the vote shift.

Charlie Bell of the Milwaukee Bucks Wants You to Get Out and Vote

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 18:22:17 EDT

"Obama is and will remain the friend of our veterans"

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 12:19:30 EDT
A retired Navy captain in Brussels writes a letter to the editor of the Green Bay Press-Gazette this morning:

BRUSSELS -- We all appreciate our right and privilege to vote in local, state or federal elections; it is, however, also our duty to be informed as well as we can. Unfortunately, many rely purely on the candidates' ads and even on unsubstantiated rumors.

As a retired Navy captain and former national program director at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Washington, D.C., I remain quite interested in whatever affects our veterans. I researched the voting records of Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama on matters affecting our veterans; the difference is staggering.

McCain voted consistently against bills that improved funding for veterans and the Veterans Administration. Just as an example, McCain opposed the 21st Century GI bill because it was too generous; and in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007, McCain voted against increasing funding for veterans health care.

In contrast, Obama co-sponsored and voted for the new GI Bill of Rights, and he helped pass 10 key veterans bills and sponsored 36 additional veterans bills since 2007. In 65 percent of the pro-veterans bills, Obama was able to get co-sponsorship from Republicans.

Obama is and will remain the friend of our veterans who have earned and deserve our support.

Dr. Joseph E. Binard

Write a letter to the editor of you local newspaper here!

Every Day is Election Day

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 10:13:01 EDT
The Superior Telegram reminds it's readers that they can vote early:

[Y]ou don't even have to wait until election day. City of Superior residents can go to the Government Center and vote absentee in the City Clerk's office or county residents can contact their town or village clerk for an absentee ballot. You don't have to be going out of town or traveling to justify casting an absentee ballot. Anyone can vote absentee for any reason. And if you are concerned about waiting in long lines on Election Day, you are encouraged to vote absentee. Election officials are predicting a record turnout and the Superior City Clerk's office has extra help on hand now to assist early voters.

The same is true all over Wisconsin. Head on over to your municipal clerk's office to get either register or vote early.

Find your municipal clerk's office!

Sen. John Kerry is Getting Wisconsin Out to Vote Early

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:26:26 EDT
On Tuesday Sen. John Kerry barn-stormed through Wisconsin to promote early voting with rallies in Milwaukee, Oshkosh, Madison and Mineral Point.

Kerry kicked off the tour in Milwaukee with a well-attended morning rally at Red Arrow Park. The Massachusetts Senator and former Democratic Presidential nominee thanked Wisconsin for narrowly going in his favor in 2004 and reminded the crowd that his margin of victory boiled down to a scant two votes per ward.

That's why Wisconsin needs to vote early, Kerry said. Voting early is convenient, easy, keeps voters from having to wait in long lines on Election Day and, most importantly, frees supporters to help volunteer to get other folks out to the polls on November 4th.

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Speaking to several hundred supporters of Democratic nominee Barack Obama in downtown Milwaukee, Kerry reminded rally attendees that the last election turned on one state: Ohio, which President Bush won by about 59,000 votes.

"We're not going to let that happen this time, folks," Kerry said, later adding: "Let's go vote and get the job done."

Following the rally about 350 voters made their ways across the street to vote at the Zeidler Building.

Check out some pictures from the event:

Kerry took his early vote message up to students in Oshkosh with another outdoor rally at UW-O's Reeve Memorial Union.

From the Oshkosh Northwestern:

UWO sophomore Amy Gearhart, 19, vice president of Students for Barack Obama and membership director for UWO's College Democrats, said students will play a critical role in this election.

"It was the students who turned out to vote for Gordon Hintz in 2006. It was the student who showed up to the primaries to make Barack Obama the democratic nominee for president. And it is the students that will put Barack Obama over the top in Wisconsin for the general election," Gearhart said.

Much more after the jump…

Read More!

Women's Weekend of Action: On the Road with Sarah Weddington

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 19:14:34 EDT

With a smile and wit the size of her native Lone Star state, Sarah Weddington knows how to tell a story - and the trail-blazing lawyer has more than a few to tell.

Weddington was only 26 years old when she took her first contested case all the way to the Supreme Court, a stunning accomplishment that was only obscured by the magnitude of the case she won: Roe v. Wade.

Now she's a law professor at the University of Texas, but has always been active in fighting for women.

"I want to tell you why this election is so important to me," she told a gathering at Beloit College. "It's the Supreme Court." Weddington estimates that the next President will be responsible for two - maybe even three - appointments to the highest court in the country. "And women have come so far in my lifetime - and we have such a long way yet to go - to turn back now."

Recalling her childhood in Texas, Weddington remembered when women's basketball was a half-court game where "traveling was called if you dribbled more than twice" and where women were only allowed three career options: teaching, nursing, and being a secretary.

Not only did Weddington break through barriers in the legal profession, but she also went on to serve in the Texas State Assembly where she mentored a legislative assistant by the name of Anne Richards who famously went on to become the first woman Governor of Texas.

But Weddington and pioneering women like her were able to break through the glass ceilings of the past because the American legal system began to recognize that women deserve to be an equal footing with men - and the only person who is going to appoint Supreme Court Justices that will continue to protect women's rights is going to be Barack Obama.

"Wisconsin is so important this election," Weddington told Beloit, "and I can't wait to be a party back in Texas on Election Night and hear the voice on the TV announce 'And we're going to call Wisconsin for Obama!'"

Check out the photo's from the entire Women's Tour featuring Sarah Weddington and Congresswomen Susan Davis and Betty McCollum:

Sen. Russ Feingold gets out the Early Vote in Racine and Kenosha!

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:26:51 EDT
Sen. Russ Feingold made stops at the city halls in Racine and Kenosha yesterday to meet with supporters who were voting early for Barack Obama. "Voting early in Wisconsin is easy, it's convenient, and it frees you up to help get others out to vote on Election Day," Sen. Feingold said.

About 50 people turned out at each event, many of whom used the opportunity to drop by their municipal clerk's offices to vote early.

The event came on a day when the Campaign for Change sent out an email featuring a video of Barack urging Wisconsin voters to take advantage of the early voting option in Wisconsin.

Obama supporters online are also getting into the early voting act - check out how to vote early in Janesville at RockNetRoots Commentary.

Sen. Feingold told both crowds how important it was to vote by recalling his first campaign for state Senate. "I knocked on over 15,000 doors and at 4:00 in the morning on election night I thought I had lost by 18 votes," he explained. "I even gave a concession speech to the 12 people who were still around. But after three weeks of recounts it turned out that I actually won by 31 votes."

Every vote counts, Sen. Feingold reiterated - especially early votes!

Invite your friends to vote early today!

Check out some pictures from the events:

Wisconsin State Journal Endorses Barack!

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 10:12:21 EDT

America is at a pivotal point in its history -- a difficult time that demands talented leadership to renew our nation's spirit and pull us together to meet the incredible challenges ahead.

The right leader for the time is Barack Obama.

The Wisconsin State Journal endorses the dynamic and youthful senator from Illinois for president.

Far more than his opponent, Obama represents a new direction. He has shown he can inspire and lead people to action. And his relatively short time in corrupt, self-absorbed, terribly-failed Washington, D.C., may actually be a key strength. Obama is not stuck in the status quo of the Capitol crowd or its long-failed Congress.

Read the rest of the endorsement after the jump...

Read More!

Women's Weekend of Action: On the Road with Rep. Betty McCollum

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 18:19:14 EDT

Following the event at UW-Parkside the Sarah Weddington and Reps. Davis and McCollum made the drive down to Beloit College to participate in a Women's Issues Forum at the small liberal arts school.

At the forum Congresswoman Betty McCollum, who represents the St. Paul, Minnesota area in Washington, told a story of campaigning with Barack in the final days of the Iowa Caucus last December.

After a long day on the campaign bus the day following Christmas the crew decided to make an unscheduled stop at the nearest convenience store. When the bus pulled into the parking lot, people began to crowd around and were joined by others from the area as a line of Iowans began to form to meet Barack.

"Towards the end there was a little four-year old girl who was dragging her father by the hand to get into line." Barack went down the line, person-by-person, shaking hands and speaking with every person until he got reach this small girl and her father. "Then he got down on a knee and started talking to this four year-old girl," McCollum said.

"That really told me something about Barack," the Congresswoman continued. "It told me that he respected everyone. That little girl couldn't caucus, but Barack literally got down to her level to talk to her."

McCollum, who sits on the House Appropriations committee, said that the brief moment in Iowa was indicative of how Barack Obama would work for the American people on the host of issues that need solutions. She reminded the audience of Obama's painful experience fighting with an insurance company as his mother was dying of cancer. "That's how Barack's going to look at health care reform," she said. "He going to look at plan and ask, 'How is this going to help the person who is need of care."

It's also how he looks at education. "Barack knows we can't ask young kids to go to schools to hear adults say, 'You're important to us and we respect you, but - by the way - the roof leaks.'"

After the forum the Weddington, Davis, and McCollum made the quick trip down to the Beloit field office to meet and speak with volunteers before the evening phone bank. They arrived to discover a pair of Beloit College students helping paint large yard signs for the campaign and the two congresswomen could resist picking up a brush to help them out.

Here's a few photos from the scene:

Women's Weekend of Action: On the Road with Rep. Susan Davis

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 16:13:42 EDT

The Campaign for Change's Women's Weekend of Action got started yesterday with phone banks and canvasses around Wisconsin. Thousands of supporters and volunteers helped spread the message by making phone calls, knocking on doors and having personal conversations with their neighbors about the issues that matter to them.
And this weekend they had some help from a trio of extraordinary women who came to Wisconsin to share their stories and talk about women's issues.

Reps. Susan Davis of California and Betty McCollum of Minnesota were joined by Sarah Weddington, the lawyer who successfully argued Roe v. Wade before the Supreme Court. The women went on a whirlwind tour of Southeastern Wisconsin yesterday making stops in Racine, Kenosha, Beloit, and Madison.

At UW-Parkside an even mix of women and men gathered to hear Davis, McCollum and Weddington and to ask a few questions. The women were greeted with a standing ovation upon their arrival and were asked questions frequently accompanied with words of thanks in recognition of their individual accomplishments.

Congresswoman Davis, who sits on the House Armed Services Committee and represents a sizable chunk of San Diego, told the crowd that this was actually the first time she had traveled to Wisconsin. "The trees here are beautiful," she remarked. "The palm trees back home don't change color."

Davis spoke of how of her family gently nudged her into supporting Barack during the primaries. Her son had been a supporter and she later discovered her husband had been quietly donating to the campaign. "But the more I looked into it, the more I found that Barack was very concerned about women's issues."

Pay equity, in particular.

"The most important women's issues always end up being economic," Rep. Davis said, noting that Barack Obama is the only candidate that will be fighting to win women equal pay for equal work.

The California Congresswoman was asked about how women can assume leadership roles in their communities. "You already have," Davis replied. "Just by being here. You're going to go out and talk about being here today with your friends and family - and they'll notice that you're active and care about your community."

Talk to people often enough, Davis continued, and they'll eventually start coming to you about events or taking action in your community. "It's really all about talking to people."

"When it comes to protecting the interest of sportsmen, Barack Obama is the clear choice"

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 16:41:18 EDT
Check out this great commentary from yesterday's Ashland Daily Press:

Senator Obama has said repeatedly that the Second Amendment created an individual right to own and use firearms and that as president he would protect the rights of hunters and law abiding Americans to own and use firearm for sport and to protect their families.

The real difference between the candidates concerns fish and wildlife habitat conservation programs and public access to hunting and fishing. The Bush administration, with the support of Senator John McCain, has greatly reduced key conservation programs. Here are just a few examples: In its 2009 budget proposal for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bush Administration has sought a 66 percent increase in the cost of a duck stamp for hunters, while simultaneously slashing the land acquisition budget under the Land and Water Conservation Fund by more than 70 percent. This shifts the burden for wetlands and wildlife habitat acquisitions almost entirely on the back of waterfowl hunters.

[...]

While many sportsmen only seem to be concerned about gun control, the very reason we own guns is being diminished and we unknowingly end up voting against our own interests. When it comes to protecting the interest of sportsmen, Barack Obama is the clear choice.

Jump on the Call with Hillary Clinton!

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 10:45:10 EDT

This weekend Sen. Hillary Clinton will kick-off the Campaign for Change's Women's Weekend of Action with a special conference call with Sen. Hillary Clinton.

Sign-up here to join us at any one of our Campaign for Change offices across the state. Sen. Clinton will be calling in at 10:00 a.m. this Saturday, October 11th to help fire up volunteers before they get ready take Barack's message of change into their communities.

It's a special event that's happening exclusively in Wisconsin, so stop in this Saturday!

Game Day in Madison: Badgers vs. Ohio State

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 19:46:02 EDT
Kick-off for one of the biggest football games of the year is less than an hour from now, but as anyone who has followed Wisconsin football knows game day starts hours before the team takes the field.

Especially when Big Ten rival Ohio State comes to Madison.

Members of the UW chapter of Students for Barack Obama spent a gorgeous afternoon registering voters around Camp Randall Stadium and spreading Barack's meassage of change to the Badger faithful -- and while they had tremendous success registering first-time voters and students who moved at the beginning of the school year.

Since Camp Randall was covered, we decided to take a look around the nighborhood to take in the sights and sound of one of the best tail-gating experiences in American sports and see if we could find some support for Barack.

Have a look at some scenes from the day in Madison below...

Go Badgers!

If you were the boss, who would you hire???

Joe M. — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 23:39:07 EDT
Think about this seriously....for a minute....

OBAMA: Harvard law Graduate, Juris Doctor of law degree, constitutional law expert, Senate committees: foreign affairs, homeland security, veterans affairs, family, education, health. Editor of the Harvard Law Journal...(no small feat there)

BIDEN: Juris Doctor of law degree, Senate committees: Foreign affairs (chair), economy, health, crime, women's affairs, education, technology, environment

McBUSH: graduated from the naval academy in the bottom 5% of his class, senate committees: economy, environment, official conduct (arguably the 3 biggest Republican failures!!!!!!!!!)

PITBULL PALIN: went to 6 different universities before finally getting a BA degree in journalism, no domestic or foreign policy experience but can see Russia from her house.

SERIOUSLY, THIS IS A NO BRAINER!!!!

If you vote McBush/Pitbull, the fate of your country will be in jeopardy. Everyone here in Europe is laughing at Americans--- America has become the butt of all jokes--- people are asking, how can they seriously consider voting for McBush and his Pitbull for another 4 years of Bush's failed policies? Don't they ever learn???

Remember the frontpage headline of London's Daily Mirror newspaper back in 2004 when Americans re-elected Bush:

HOW CAN 59 MILLION PEOPLE BE SO DUMB?

Road Trip with Howard Dean: Platteville

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:28:18 EDT

UW-Platteville was the final stop on Howard Dean's Tuesday tour though southern Wisconsin, where he spoke to a standing room only audience at the Pioneer Student Center just after dinner time.
The crowd was a healthy mix of students - some donning "Pioneers for Progress" t-shirts - and older locals looking to learn more about Barack Obama and get involved in the his movement for change.

UW-Platteville student and U.S. Army veteran Eli Caywood began the program by discussing his experience as a soldier in both Iraq and Afghanistan and why he believed Barack Obama is the only candidate that will end American engagement in Iraq responsibly. Caywood spoke movingly about his service to our country and the need to reclaim America's standing as the moral authority in the international community - receiving a standing ovation of thanks from the crowd when he finished.

State Rep. Phil Garthwaite followed by thanking Gov. Dean for implementing the 50 State Strategy in the Democratic Party, noting that he was living proof of the progress that can be made when Democrats take their message to all everyone, everywhere. In 2006 Garthwaite became the first Democrat to win his local state assembly seat since 1912.

"The 50 State Strategy is now the 99 District Strategy in Wisconsin," Garthwaite declared.

Taking Barack's message of change to everyone in Wisconsin became one of Dean's principle themes during his talk to UW-Platteville.
Dean encouraged the students in attendance to not only get involved in Obama's campaign, but to start thinking about the impact they can make at the state and local level. "Spreading a message takes time," Dean said. "So does working for change."

Check out some photos from the Dean's road trip:

Get involved today!

Volunteer!
Sign up with Wisconsin Students for Barack Obama!
Sign up with Wisconsin Veterans for Barack Obama!

The VP Debate

Joe M. — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:42:52 EDT

Sara Palin did not look bad at all during last night's debate - but I just can't get over her winking, 'gotcha', and casual attitude while debating. I wonder whether she realizes the importance of the position to which she has been nominated or whether she is still in moose hunting mode.
Biden - on the other hand - couldn't have done better - gaffe's or no gaffe's - the man is genuine and speaks from the heart - we need more people like him in the senate and in government - whom we can identify with and who will truly represent the people and constituents in Washington D.C
Change is coming........31 days more......

Road Trip with Howard Dean: Monroe

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:49:11 EDT

The second stop on Howard Dean's Wisconsin Road Trip was Monroe where he spoke with over 70 local Democrats at the Minhas Craft Brewery, a traditional Bavarian-style brewery that has been a downtown staple since before Wisconsin was granted statehood in 1848.

The brewery is located just a few short blocks away from one of the most scenic town squares in Wisconsin, where dozens of local businesses and restaurants surround a stunning Romanesque municipal building in the heart of the town.

It was an ideal place for Gov. Dean to deliver his message that Barack Obama is the only person running for President who will fight for the best interests of Middle America.

"You have a candidate the economy starts in Monroe," Dean said, referring to Obama; "and you have another that thinks the economy starts on Wall Street. Well, guess what? America wasn't created on Wall Street."

"Barack Obama is the candidate of the future and John McCain is the candidate of the past and we can't afford four more years like the ones that just passed."

Reminding the crowd that he was once the Governor of one of the most rural states in the Union, Dean reflected on the struggles of rural Americans in tough economic times. "The problems of America are particularly acute in rural America … It is tougher and tougher to keep small towns together" during economic downturns.

Barack Obama will work to enhance the quality of life in rural America by developing an 21st Century infrastructure and provide incentives for teachers and health care providers to establish roots small town America, Dean said.

Learn more about Barack Obama's plan for rural America here!

Road Trip with Howard Dean: Janesville

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:50:03 EDT
On Tuesday DNC Chairman Howard Dean kicked off a two-day whirlwind tour through Wisconsin at the UAW Labor Hall in Janesville. Well over 200 people - including over 40 students from Janesville Parker High School -- packed the auditorium to hear Chairman Dean discuss a variety of subjects ranging from the candidates' solutions to providing health care to the country to the importance constant civic engagement.

Janesville is Wisconsin's quintessential blue-collar small town. For years the local economy has been anchored by the GM auto plant, but earlier this summer General Motors announced that it was going to be closing the facility no later than 2010. The announcement hit the community hard - and while many members of the community have not given up hope that they can save the facility, most folks in Janesville are understandably anxious about the future.

Not surprisingly, most of the Union brothers and sisters that packed UAW Local 95'S Walter P. Reuther Labor Hall were looking for a change.

Matt, an intern in the Janesville office, explained that voters in Janesville are turning that desire for change into action by registering voters in huge numbers. "We used to get about 15 registrations a week during the summer," Matt said. "Now we're getting about that many a day."

Gov. Dean was introduced by Joel Sheldon - who has worked for GM for 23 years and has followed politics all his life, but decided that this year he was going to finally get involved. "I just can't sit idly by," he told the audience. "I don't know if we'll be able to retire."

Read more and Check out a link to WisconsinEye's coverage of the event after the jump…

Read More!

Neighbor to Neighbor: Get Started Today!

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:03:43 EDT
With just over 30 days before Wisconsin goes to the polls, it's never been more important to reach out to voters in your neighborhood -- and the most convenient way to tell your story of support for Barack Obama to others is through the campaign's Neighbor to Neighbor tool. Neighbor to Neighbor lets you knock on doors or call voters in your neighbor from the comfort of your own home on your own time and allows anyone to transform a few spare moments of downtime into time spent working for change:

Check it out:

It's quick, it's easier and the weekend is a perfect time to get a hold of people. Get started today!

"The American Promise"

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:58:19 EDT
We just have to share this video of some of the candid behind the scenes moments during the DNC Convention in Denver.

Enjoy!

Barack Obama in La Crosse

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:25:47 EDT

After being introduced by Nikki Brown, Barack Obama took the stage to a wild eruption of applause from the crowd shaking hands with dozens of supporters as he made his way to the podium.

"What an extraordinary town! I hear some of you were camping out last night!" Barack noted, with a smile a wave to the UW-L students who had spent the night waiting in line to the event. "You get extra credit for that!"

Obama thanked Nikki Brown and the previous speakers before focusing on the subject he came to La Crosse to discuss: the current financial crisis on Wall Street.

Barack reassured the people of La Crosse -- just two blocks from the city's very own Main Street -- that Americans can pull out of the current economic downturn with fiscally responsible economic principles that will help all Americans -- not just the wealthy.

But Obama also wanted to send a message to the people of La Crosse that now is a time to remain confident in America's ability to rise above the tumult of the current economic climate:

This is one of those moments. I realize you're cynical and fed up with politics. I understand that you're disappointed and even angry with your leaders. You have every right to be. But despite all of this, I ask you to believe - believe in this country and your ability to change it. I ask you what has been asked of the American people in times of trial and turmoil throughout history - what was asked at the beginning of the greatest financial crisis this nation ever endured. In his first fireside chat, Franklin Roosevelt told his fellow Americans that "..there is an element in the readjustment of our financial system more important than currency, more important than gold, and that is the confidence of the people themselves. Confidence and courage are the essentials of success in carrying out our plan. Let us unite in banishing fear. Together, we cannot fail."

America, together, we cannot fail. Not now. Not when we have a crisis to solve and an economy to save. Not when there are so many Americans without jobs and without homes. Not when there are families who can't afford to see a doctor, or send their child to college, or pay their bills at the end of the month. Not when there is a generation that is counting on us to give them the same opportunities and the same chances that we had for ourselves.

Check out some photos of the event courtesy of the campaign's traveling new media team:

Read the whole speech after the jump...

Read More!

Yesterday with Barack: Nikki from La Crosse

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 11:07:31 EDT
Yesterday Nikki Brown a working mother of three from La Crosse whose family has felt the pinch of the recent economic hard times, introduced Barack Obama to the crowd of nearly 15,000.

In her remarks she told her own story of how Barack's vision for the country's future will help her families and millions just like her's around the country.

Read her remarks after the pictures:

Good morning. My name is Nikki Brown and I am a department manager here in La Crosse.

I have a wonderful husband Dan and beautiful daughters Madison, Taylor and Payton. And every day when I wake up in the morning I think about the welfare of my family. I think about the two mortgages and the constantly rising costs of everything from groceries to gasoline while our income just doesn't grow. That is why I'm thrilled the Barack Obama's Making Work Pay tax credit will help provide our family with $1000 in tax relief.

I think about my youngest and oldest daughters, who like me, have a kidney disease called PDK. We may face transplants and procedures which will impact our health and our lives. But I also think about the financial impact. Even with decent insurance the bills keep stacking up month to month and you just feel like you're moving back instead of forward. I would like to see the day when our medical bills no longer eat away at our monthly budget. That is why I'm thrilled that Barack Obama has a health care plan that will reduce health care costs by $2500 for families like mine.

Read the rest of her introduction and a brief analysis of how Barack's plan will help the Browns after the jump...

Read More!

Today in La Crosse: First in Line: Joe, Marques, Vanesssa, DeAndre and Sean from UW-L

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:04:25 EDT
It's hard to say exactly just when today's amazing rally in La Crosse actually started.

Technically speaking, the gates were to open at 8:00 a.m. this morning - but for a few UW-La Crosse students the rally start at 8:00 p.m. the evening before.

From left to right: Marques from Milwaukee; Joe from St. Paul, MN; Vanessa from Milwaukee; and Sean from Madison. Far Right: DeAndre from Milwaukee

A small group of students were so excited to see Barack in their neighborhood that they spent the night waiting in line to guarantee a great place to see the rally. Each of them had their own reasons: DeAndre wanted to witness history and Sean admitted through a smile that he was also motivated by earning the bragging rights of the first in line.

And all of the students - to a person - seconded their friend Joe's comment: "This is something we believe in. We believe Barack can make some great changes in this country. We wouldn't be sleeping on the concrete if we didn't think he could."

For all but one of the students this was going to be their first Obama event -- Vanessa actually got to see Barack this summer while she was studying abroad in Berlin!

So what kinds of change are these young voters looking for?

"Jobs," said Joe. "I want to know that I'm going to have a job after college."

"I want to know when higher education is going to be a right and not a privilege," Marques added.

"And health care!" DeAndre let out - while Sean gentled jostled a left arm in a sling.

Change is coming......in 33 days.....

Joe M. — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:32:12 EDT

Has anyone ordered and received propaganda material from the Obama Store?
I placed my order on Sept 15th - no signs of it as yet and the store still says 'Processing'

Getting Ready for Tomorrow's Rally in La Crosse

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:26:51 EDT
La Crosse is getting fired up for tomorrow's rally with Barack.

From the La Crosse Tribune:

Sen. Barack Obama's announcement he will visit

La Crosse this week electrified local campaign volunteers.

Wednesday's rally will be the presidential candidate's fourth visit to Wisconsin since the Democratic convention, but his first campaign stop in La Crosse.

About 35 volunteers worked Monday at the Sixth Street campaign headquarters to express a variety of messages in red and blue tempera paint: There were seniors, students and women, all 4 Obama. There were (hearts) for Obama. And proclamations that yes, we can.

[...]

Obama volunteer Barb Reithel said the campaign headquarters has been constantly busy since the announcement, and had gone through nearly 1,000 yard signs.

Bob Weeth has volunteered for political campaigns since 1972, when he worked for Richard Nixon because he promised to end the war in Vietnam.

Thirty-six years later, he's counting on Obama to end the one in Iraq.

At the Obama headquarters, Weeth provided the tunes from a laptop plugged into an amplifier. A Dem Franchize Boyz rap faded into James Brown, who gave way to Four Non Blondes. The diversity of the mix reflected the crowd.

Melissa Noth, 26, and her 17-year-old sister, Samantha Nardini, decided Sunday to volunteer after hearing Obama was coming to town.

"I like that he's all about change," Nardini said.

"Obama really seems to care about the common person," Noth added.

Rosemarie Link painted a "Seniors for Obama" sign. The 71-year-old said she's spent the past couple of weeks making phone calls.

"It's a really important time -- not so much for me as my children and grandchildren," she said. "That's who I'm volunteering for."

The rally will be held downtown at the corner of 2nd and Pearl Streets beside the La Crosse Center. The program starts at 10:00 a.m. -- but it's a good idea to get there much earlier.

Wisconsin Sportsmen Explain Why They Support Barack Obama

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 09:41:51 EDT
Hunters and anglers all over Wisconsin are finding out that Barack Obama is the only candidate that will respect and enhance the traditions of voters who enjoy the great outdoors. Here's just a sample of what they're saying:

"I am an avid sportsman and demand that my rights be protected. However, I also believe that our country has too many other issues. I know Mr. Obama will do a fine job keeping my rights as a sportsman intact, And more importantly make the changes we need as a country."

Windal in Portage County

"Barack Obama is a strong supporter of our world class fishing opportunities in Wisconsin and he promotes excellent stewardship of our wildlife habitat."

Pat in Bayfield County

"As a hunter I believe Democrats have always supported sustainable natural resources and protection of the environment rather than corporate interests."

Jason in Dane County

"He stands for the working people of this great nation and not only cares about being able to continue to have firearms and be able to hunt but also to assure that there will be a place where we can still do so on public land that is not under the control of oil companies and other big business."

Tom in Bayfield County

Join Wisconsin Sportsmen and Sportswomen for Obama today and tell your story!

Barack in La Crosse: the Details

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 18:38:47 EDT

This morning we brought you news that Barack Obama will be in La Crosse this Wednesday.

Now we have details:

Downtown La Crosse
Intersection at Pearl and 2nd Street (beside the La Crosse Center)
La Crosse, WI

Public Entrance: 2nd and Main Street

Wednesday, October 1st
Gates Open: 8:00 a.m.
Program Begins: 10:00 a.m.

Click here to RSVP!

Barack Obama is Coming to La Crosse this Wednesday!

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 10:25:58 EDT
Mark your calenders, Wisconsin!

From the Campaign:

MADISON, Wis.-U.S. Sen. Barack Obama will return to Wisconsin Wednesday for the third time in the month of September. Coming off a commanding debate performance Friday, Obama will continue to make his case for the change we need at a rally in the La Crosse area. The event will be free and open to the public. No ticket is required, however an RSVP at www.barackobama.com is strongly encouraged. Further details of the event will be announced as they become available.

Senator Obama last visited Wisconsin on Monday, September 22, when he unveiled a plan to reform the greed and excesses of Washington in Green Bay. Other recent stops in the state include a Labor Day rally in Milwaukee along with a Sunday picnic style event in Eau Claire on August 24.

Stop by here for more details as they become available!

Madison Registration Deputization

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 17:47:37 EDT

Almost 50 people showed up today at the Campaign for Change's UW-Madison office on Henry Street to become voter registrars.

Supporters of all ages piled into the office at noon for a short class conducted by a representative from the Madison Clerk of Courts office who went over the ins and outs of registering voters in Wisconsin's capital. Now everyone who attended the meeting is able to register new voters in the city of Madison and are set to help register thousands of student and first-time voters.

Check out some more photos from the scene just a block off of State Street:

If you are already a voter registration deputy in your hometown (or statewide!) or have an interest in becoming one, contact your local Campaign for Change office!

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: "From our view, edge to Obama"

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 17:28:07 EDT
In an editorial today, Wisconsin's largest newspaper declared Barack Obama the winner of last night's debate.

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

The topic was foreign policy, with undercurrents of the financial crisis now consuming the attentions of the U.S. Congress. This main topic, woven as it is with national security, was one in which John McCain was thought to have an edge over Barack Obama. He made every attempt to paint the Illinois senator as naïve. He mostly failed.

[...]

And whether the invasion of Iraq was the right thing to do is far from the academic question McCain wanted to make it out to be. It goes to judgment. The next president may have to make more fateful decisions about sending troops into harm's way. The presidential debate on Iraq has to be about more than whether the surge worked.

[...]

On the economy, McCain attempted to distance himself from the last eight years of the Bush Administration. Obama sought to remind voters that McCain, though a maverick in key areas, stood with the president on most of the issues.

The pundits score debates on whether anyone hit it one out of the park, the number of gotchas tallied. No one did hit one out of the park but that kind of scoring is wrong in any case. Voters should simply see how candidates' views mesh with their own.

And on that score, there was plenty to judge. From our view, edge to Obama.

Neighbor to Neighbor in the News!

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 15:45:19 EDT
WISN ran a great report on the Obama Campaign's Neighbor to Neighbor online voter contact tool last night:

Amy Kortbein has been canvassing for Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama, and said the online tool has been making campaigning accessible for new demographics.

"I have a lot of friends who are working moms, who are stay-at-home moms and their husbands who are working that are all using this 'Neighbor to Neighbor' application," said Kortbein.

The Web sites give the volunteers everything they need to do the volunteering from home, and do it in a way one University of Wisconsin-Madison professor said could be pivotal to turnout.

You can catch the video here.

If you're interested in reaching out to voters in your neighborhood or from the comfort of your own home, check out this brief video describing the Neighbor to Neighbor program:

Thousands of voters in Wisconsin -- just like Amy -- are already using Neighbor to Neighbor to help win the Badger State for Barack. It only takes a minute to learn and lets you work for change on your own schedule.

Sign up to use the Neighbor to Neighbor tool today!

Students for Barack Obama: Elizabeth Levine

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 08:52:24 EDT
The Isthmus has a great article about Elizabeth Levine, one of the all-star interns in the Madison who has been working tirelessly for the campaign:

Elizabeth Levine spends almost every waking moment outside of class at the Madison Field Headquarters of Barack Obama's campaign. Though she's too young to vote, she sees it as a way to make a real difference.

"A lot of people feel like very small fish in a very big pond," says Levine, 17, a senior at West High. "It's not just the people on top that can make a difference."

Levine is one of dozens of Madison high school students actively engaged in Obama's statewide Campaign for Change. She works as an unpaid intern, through a program run by the campaign for high school and college students. Collectively, they make the Monroe Street campaign office ground zero for one of the most youth-centric campaigns this state has ever seen.

This fall, high school students from throughout the Madison area are devoting at least 15 hours each week -- and some considerably more -- to Obama's Wisconsin campaign. Nationally, Obama's campaign cites as one of its goals to support "a new generation of leadership that believes, like Sen. Obama, that real change comes from the ground up."

More after the jump...

Read More!

Joe Biden with Cudahy's Bravest

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 20:42:34 EDT

Joe Biden's talk to firefighters in Cudahy focused on an issue that is clearly very close to collective heart of the Biden family: fighting for the brave men and women who work every day to serve and protect the lives of others.

Jill Biden kicked off the discussion by recalling the evening several years ago when her home was struck by lightening and subsequently was enveloped in a five alarm fire. Jill recalled the speed and urgency with which the local firefighters rushed to rescue.

Joe Biden followed his wife by thanking firefighters everywhere for their service to their communities and to his family in particular.

Biden marveled at what our country now asks of it's firefighters, whom no longer must simply fight fires, but are now also asked to be on the front lines of potential terrorist attacks.

Being a first-responder in the 21st Century means responding to global problems, Biden said -- and firefighters can't accomplish that goal without help from outside of their communities.

Biden called this country's commitment to it's public safety officers a "sacred obligation" -- one that has not been met by the current administration in the wake of the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission.

Joe walked among the crowd as he spoke, pausing his discussion from time to time to laugh with the audience. When he concluded his remarks -- with a pledge to fight for first-responders like Cudahy's bravest -- Biden took the time to meet with all of the men and women who wished to speak with him (and posing for a few pictures along the way).

Check out the pictures from the event:

Cudahy Fire Fighters Welcome Joe and Jill Biden!

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:34:13 EDT
Fire fighters of all ages in Cudahy anxiously awaited a pair of special guests for their lunch fish fry this afternoon -- Joe and Jill Biden, who stopped by for the meal with the members of the Milwaukee suburb's bravest today.

Over 100 firefighters and their families gathered for the Friday fish lunch and to hear Joe Biden -- a founding member of the Congressional Fire Caucus -- discuss the deep personal ties his family has to the fire-fighting community.

Firefighters from Cudahy's Fire Station #2 on Ramsey Ave. were joined by a few of their firefighting brothers from around the Milwaukee area and elsewhere in Wisconsin. Guests began arriving to the station just after 10:00 this morning and began lunch shortly thereafter.

Mayor Ryan McCue led the fire station in a blessing before the meal and the Cudahy fire department's very own Mark Siggelkow introduced Joe and Jill Biden, who arrived after spending the morning meeting with Georgia President Mikhail Saakashvili in Milwaukee.

Check out some photos from the event:

Women's Wednesday: Madison

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 11:40:10 EDT

Last night in Madison over 60 women of all ages dropped by the local Campaign for Change field office to reach out to other women voters over the phone.

Becky Carroll, the national director of Women for Obama, kicked off a phone bank that managed to make hundreds of phone calls over the course of the evening.

Check out some pictures from the evening:

The weekly phone bank is part of the the Wisconsin Women's Week of Action, a series of events that is bringing women together to share their support for Barack.

This weekend the Campaign for Change will be organizing canvasses and Get the Facts house parties across Wisconsin. Find one in your neighborhood by clicking here today!

High School Night!

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 08:36:18 EDT
Last night, in Campaign for Change offices all across Wisconsin, high school students -- many of whom are not yet old enough to vote -- came together to make their voices heard by getting on the phone and reaching out to voters.

Every Tuesday from now until the election is High School Night at offices across Wisconsin. It's the perfect opportunity for young people to get together with their friends and get involved in shaping their futures.

It's also a perfect example of how Barack Obama is energizing America's next generation of leadership by giving them an essential role in this movement for change. Everyone is welcome -- you don't have to be class president to help elect the next President of the United States.

Take a look at the scene from Madison last night:

Barack Obama in Green Bay: "Change has Always Come from Places Like Wisconsin"

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:39:59 EDT
Barack's speech in Green Bay yesterday was a major address that outlined in specific detail the change that is needed on Wall Street and in Washington before Americans on Main Street can have their faith restored in our financial and political institutions.

Check it out:

Listen to an MP3 of the speech and to read the prepared remarks after the jump...

Read More!

Barack Obama in Green Bay: Getting Fired Up!

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 10:52:18 EDT
At 9:00 a.m. the doors to the Resch Center opened and hundred supporters from around Packerland filed into the arena.

Hundreds of union members, veterans, and students of all ages found a spot in the Lambeau Field parking lot just across Oneida Street. Despite an earlier morning fog which lingered just long enough to create an overcast, volunteers kept the crowd fired up with a chants cordial banter as attendees signed-up to help get out the vote in the weeks ahead.

Once inside outstanding volunteers like Ed from De Pere (pictured, left) helped folks find their seats around the Resch Center. Many of the early arrivals who had skipped breakfast took advantage of a few open concessions stands to munch on a brat or two before the program began.

Shortly after 11:00 a.m. Chairman of the Oneida Indian Tribe of Wisconsin Jerry Danforth kicked off the program with an invocation. Following suit was Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton -- a long-time Green Bay resident -- who stepped up to the podium to announce the Wisconsin Campaign for Change's Women's Week of Action, a week-long series of house parties and events where women supporters will have to opportunity to reach out and tell their stories to other women in Wisconsin.

More After the jump...

Read More!

Barack Obama in Green Bay: Northern Michigan College Dems

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 08:26:14 EDT

Clockwise from top, right: Stephen from Appleton; Tom from Marquette, MI;
Kendra from Marquette, MI; Zoe from Detroit, MI; Alicia from Marinette.

One of the most excited groups to make the trip to Green Bay yesterday was the Northern Michigan University College Dems, who left the NMU campus in the Upper Peninsula at 4:00 a.m. to make a six hour drive to Brown County that required a few detours to pick up several members who spent the weekend canvassing for several local candidates up north.

All of the NMU college Dems could barely contain their enthusiasm -- and not just because they had finally made it to the event after a long journey to the Resch Center. All reported an unprecedented spike in energy and interest at school. "There's far more activity this year," Stephen observed.

"Much more than two years ago," Alicia added.

"There's even more than back in 2004!" Zoe appended.

And the college Dems are taking advantage of this climate by talking to their friends, registering their fellow students (they have ambitious goals that they're close to reaching) and getting involved in local campaigns all across the UP and Wisconsin Northwoods.

"We're all failing out of college!" quipped Kendra to the laughter of the rest of her friends. "We just think this so important and there isn't much time left to do something about it."

First in Line: Aly & Katie from Kimberly with Barack Obama in Green Bay

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 07:43:59 EDT

Katie (right) and Aly are friends from from Kimberly who made the drive up to Green Bay yesterday, arriving at the Resch Center at 4:45 a.m. to be the first in line to see Barack's speech.

"We were thinking about camping out!" said Aly, who saw Barack speak in Oshkosh during the Wisconsin primary.

Both girls are nursing students at Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton who said they were drawn to Barack's American Opportunity Tax Credit plan to make college affordable to all young people. "I feel like [Barack] will help me with my education more than anything," Katie said.

As future nurses, both Aly and Katie are concerned with health care in America -- not only how they will be personally covered, but also for their future patients.

They were also are apprehensive about the current state of the economy and how the future fiscal condition of the country would help or hinder them finish their education and afford health care.

Once inside the two students grabbed seats right next to the floor of the Resch Center and waited anxiously for the program to begin.

Michelle Obama is Coming to Wisconsin on Monday!

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 11:01:38 EDT

Fresh on the heels of the news that Barack will be in Green Bay next week -- Michelle Obama will also be barnstorming through the Badger State on Monday, with events in Milwaukee, Madison and Wausau.
From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

While her husband is in Green Bay Monday, Michelle Obama will be appearing in three other Wisconsin cities the same day -- Milwaukee, Madison and Wausau.
Michelle Obama will hold an economic roundtable discussion with working women in Wausau, the campaign announced, and host rallies in Milwaukee and Madison.

Check back here for more details as they become available!

UPDATED:

Madison
WOMEN'S WEEK OF ACTION RALLY WITH MICHELLE OBAMA

GAR Memorial Park at Camp Randall
1440 Monroe Street
Madison, WI 53711

Media Access: 8:30 am
Doors open: 9:00 am
Program begins: 10:00 am

RSVP

***

West Allis
WOMEN'S WEEK OF ACTION RALLY WITH MICHELLE OBAMA

West Allis Central High School Field House
8516 West Lincoln Ave
West Allis, WI 53227

Doors Open: 3:30 PM

RSVP

New Details on Barack's Monday Visit to Green Bay

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 08:38:16 EDT

From the Journal Sentinel :
Barack Obama's appearance at Green Bay's Resch Center Monday is free and open to the public and will not be ticketed, according to the campaign. Doors open at 9 a.m. and the program begins at noon. The campaign said it was encouraging attendees to RSVP online at [here].

Barack Obama's Coming to Green Bay!

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 20:42:40 EDT

MADISON, Wis. -- Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama plans to speak in Green Bay on Monday.
His campaign released no details of the stop. The visit will mark the third time Obama has appeared in Wisconsin in the last month. He spoke in Eau Claire on Aug. 24 and in Milwaukee on Labor Day.

Check back here as more details become available!

Joe Biden at the Pro Football Hall of Fame

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:03:12 EDT

We just couldn't resist this video!
Last week Joe Biden visited a clamorous crowd in Green Bay, where he talked about his days playing football in his youth. Today Joe made a stop to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Take a look:

Just a reminder: since the are play at night this Sunday, you have the chance to spend a beautiful afternoon canvassing for Barack this weekend. Stop by you local Campaign for Change office and help your neighbors work for change today!

Wisconsin Veterans Hit the Road for Barack Obama

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:03:33 EDT

The Campaign for Change will be touring Wisconsin discussing what Barack Obama plans to do for our Nation's veterans. Here's the press release:

MADISON, Wis. - Wisconsin Veterans for Obama will tour the state this week, discussing Senator Barack Obama's record of support for Veterans and why we must elect Obama president on Nov. 4. This statewide roll-out will include a traveling caravan of Veterans leadership from the Vietnam Era through the current conflict in Iraq. At each stop the Wisconsin Veterans for Obama will discuss their support for Senator Obama with local veterans and elected officials.
At two stops, Wausau and Stevens Point, they will be joined by Admiral John B. Nathman and Obama Foreign Policy Advisor Sarah Sewall. Retired Brigadier General Robert Cocroft will join the Tour in Waukesha.
In February 2009, 3,500 National Guard members from Wisconsin will ship out to Iraq, the largest Wisconsin National Guard Deployment since World War II. This deployment will greatly affect Wisconsin's Veterans Trust Fund and future funding for veterans in Wisconsin. Members of the Wisconsin National Guard and Reserves will be on the Tour speaking about this deployment and how Senator Obama will help these Veteran heroes when they return home.
Obama has a strong record of standing up for our Veterans. He co-sponsored and consistently supported the GI Bill, which McCain campaigned against, and Obama promises to fund fully Veterans Health Care, which McCain has repeatedly voted against. Obama also has a plan to responsibly transition us out of Iraq, and he will rebuild our alliances and restore America's standing in the world.

You can find the entire tour schedule after the jump...
Read More!

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius in Wausau!

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 10:12:38 EDT
From the Wausau Daily Herald:

Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius cast Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama as the true candidate of change who can help people in the Wausau area navigate difficult economic times.
"The pain has finally trickled up to Wall Street from Main Street," Sebelius, a Democrat, said Wednesday to about 100 people at the Wausau Business Development Center.
The Kansas governor said Obama -- who grew up in Hawaii but was also raised by his Kansas grandparents -- understands the plight of regular people and will offer real change and relief.

UPDATED: Gov. Sebelius' trip to Wisconsin is now all over the place!
*Here's video from WKOW of the Kansas Governor's event in Sun Prairie.
*WKBT has extended video of her speaking in La Crosse.

Gov. Doyle Backs the Obama/Biden Great Lakes Plan

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 16:29:31 EDT
From the Journal-Sentinel:

Gov. Jim Doyle said Tuesday he welcomes Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's $5 billion plan to begin restoration of the Great Lakes.
"Barack Obama understands we have to make fundamental changes, and one of them is the way that the Republicans have dealt with the lakes," Doyle said in a conference call with reporters.
He was talking about President Bush's plan four years ago to bring together regional leaders and scientists to draft a blueprint to protect the world's largest freshwater system. That blueprint, which took more than a year to craft, has since largely gone unfunded.
Obama's plan calls for $5 billion over 10 years to address critical Great Lakes issues such as sewer overflows, invasive species and toxic hotspots. The money would come from rollbacks of existing tax breaks to oil and gas companies, according to his aides. Obama is also planning to designate a federal Great Lakes boss to help coordinate existing federal, state and local Great Lakes programs.
[...]
Conservationists said they are encouraged that presidential candidates appear to be taking Great Lakes issues seriously.
"The release of Senator Obama's plan indicates that the presidential candidates are getting serious about Great Lakes restoration. We look forward to the candidates trying to outdo each other on who is going to stand up for the millions of people, businesses and communities who rely on the Great Lakes 365 days a year," said Jeff Skelding, national campaign director of the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition, which represents about 100 environmental groups and other conservation-related organizations.

"Plan for Change"

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:42:36 EDT

Yesterday Barack spoke to a crowd in Golden, Colorado on the recent series of troubling economic news.
Today he's taking that message to the airwaves with "Plan for Change," a two-minute TV ad that outlines his plan to strengthen the American economy.
Have a look:

"Real Change"

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:40:29 EDT

The Obama-Biden Plan for the Great Lakes

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:00:09 EDT

CHICAGO, IL - Today, the Obama-Biden campaign announced the Obama-Biden Great Lakes Restoration Plan. The plan calls for new federal funding of $5 billion to jumpstart Great Lakes Restoration, designates a Great Lakes Coordinator to coordinate Federal, State, and Local agencies and requires full implementation of the Great Lakes Compact.
You can read the fact sheet here: LINK
Governor Jim Doyle, the Chairman of the Great Lakes Governors said, "America deserves to have a President who understands that supporting the Great Lakes isn't just about scoring points during the election year, it's about preserving our environment and protecting a vital economic engine in the Midwest. Our states need a partner in the White House like Barack Obama who has a proven track record of protecting the Great Lakes and advocating for our sportsmen, our tourism industry and our jobs. The Obama-Biden plan gives us in the Great Lakes states the support and change we need to grow our economy and secure our future."

More after the jump...
Read More!

Protecting the Great Lakes

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:25:15 EDT

Barack Obama is releasing more details about his plan to protect the Great Lakes. From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is promising to push for $5 billion in new funds to protect and restore the Great Lakes if he gets elected in November.
[...]
The announcement comes days after Obama and McCain sent representatives to a Great Lakes restoration conference in downtown Milwaukee. Representatives from both camps talked about their candidate's respective commitment to the world's largest freshwater system, but both were short on specifics during the three-day event.
Obama plans to get specific with his campaign promises today. Beyond a $5 billion federal trust fund designed to "jump-start" Great Lakes restoration efforts in partnership with state and local governments, Obama is committing to a "zero tolerance" policy for invasive species to stem the steady degradation of the Great Lakes because of unwanted species such as the zebra and quagga mussels.
The Great Lakes are now home to more than 180 invasive species, and science shows the overwhelming majority of invaders in recent decades have arrived in the ship-steadying ballast tanks of overseas freighters.
Obama also plans to designate a Great Lakes czar to coordinate existing federal programs with authority over Great Lakes management issues.
[...]
"In the same way this country recognized the need to restore the Everglades, we see this as a priority for the Obama administration," Heather Zichal, energy and environment policy director for the Obama campaign, said late Monday. "We need to recognize this as a great national treasure that needs to be protected. It's the largest freshwater system on the planet, and therefore we need to put the power of the federal government behind restoration."

To learn more about Barack's plans to protect our natural resources, sign up with Wisconsin Conservationists for Obama.

Heartland Change Tour Coming to Beaver Dam Tomorrow!

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:27:58 EDT

The Beaver Dam Daily Citizen got word that the Heartland Change Tour bus is going to be in town tomorrow. Take a look:

MADISON -- Barack Obama's Wisconsin Campaign for Change "Heartland Change Tour II" returns to Wisconsin this week.
The bus will stop in Waupun on Tuesday, with campaign staff joining local supporters and elected officials to discuss Obama's and McCain's records as they relate to Rural Wisconsin.
During the Waupun stop, Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Joe Wineke and Wisconsin Policy Director Peter Harrell will hold a Heartland Change Breakfast Roundtable Discussion at 10 a.m. at the Chit Chat Cafe, 324 E. Main St.

Voices for Change: Susan in Milwaukee

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 06:19:12 EDT

Susan in Milwaukee is an Obama Team member with a wonderful on her role in the campaign: for her, being an Obama Organizing Team member is just the beginning of working for change in her community:

This whole Obama campaign at the local level is based on his community organizing model and its a wonderful model that respects and empowers and includes all people who want to be involved in helping the campaign and helping their communities for the long haul. This campaign is organized not only to elect Obama President, but to mobilize a movement for change that will continue beyond the election, to help implement Obama's agenda when he is elected, to continue to work on local issues that we all care about, and to work on other campaigns to elect progressive candidates.
I was trained to be an Obama Organizing Fellow in June and now I'm an Obama Team Member and the training for both positions was quite similar, both based on the principles used by Obama when he was a community organizer. Through the training all of us have come to know our own life stories better and we see how our own stories led us to connect deeply to this campaign. I am inspired to be part of a history-making campaign and would not have been quite so inspired if I had not been helped to see that my earlier experiences related to the civil rights movement and then the anti-war and women's movement are placed in the context of Obama's rise to prominence. It's still an uphill battle, but if everyone becomes a part of this movement and devotes all the available hours they have to this campaign, we can win.

Join Susan and the hundreds of Obama Organizing Team members all across Wisconsin -- stop by a Camapaign for Change office in your neighborhood today!

Wisconsin Sportmen for Obama

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 15:46:39 EDT

From the Appleton Post-Crescent:

Democratic Barack Obama's presidential campaign has countered Republican John McCain's attempts to win the sportsmen's vote.
The Obama campaign launched a committee late last week to reach gun owners, hunters and sportsmen in the state. The organization, led by U.S. Rep. Ron Kind, D-La Crosse, has members in rural and urban communities, including in Neenah with Denny Lauer.

To join Congressman Kind and other Wisconsin Sportsmen for Obama, just click here!

Women's Wednesdays

Ian Jungbacker — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 12:42:24 EDT

Campaign for Change offices around Wisconsin will be hosting Women's Wednesday events every week throughout the rest of the election. It's a chance for women to get together, reach out to other women voters and spread the word about Barack's efforts to fight for pay equity, health care for Wisconsin's working families and women's rights.
The Campaign for Change got Women's Wednesdays rolling with a state-wide conference call last week. From the Green Bay Press Gazette:

A number of prominent democratic officeholders, including Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton, Rep. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, Department of Workforce Development Secretary Roberta Gassman and others, kicked-off a telephone campaign on Wednesday by focusing on issues such as health care and working women.
About 240 supporters were dialed in to find out how they can help out the campaign by hosting weekly house parties on Wednesdays, grass roots campaigning and a women's week of action slated for Sept. 22.
"Each state has its own strategies for identifying women … this has been developed within Wisconsin," said Phil Walzak, communications director for the Obama campaign in Wisconsin. "We are making sure that this demographic is learning about Barack Obama and his ideas."

Sign up for a Wisconsin Women's Wednesday event in your neighborhood today!

Barack to School!

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 18:02:12 EDT

As students all across Wisconsin head back to the classroom this month, the Campaign for Change will be hosting "Barack to School!" events on college campuses throughout the state. These events are a great way for young voters to learn how they can organize fellow students and work for their future.
Barack Obama has inspired an entire generation of young Americans to work for change in their communities and there's no better place to start a lifetime of civic engagement than by registering friends and neighbors and getting out the vote on campus. The Campaign for Change will be working hard to get college students - many of whom will be voting in their first election - on board Barack's movement for change.
No political experience is necessary!
Obama's Campaign for Change is open is everyone with a desire to change America. We're looking for interns, volunteers, supporters and youthful enthusiasm in general. It's the work of so many young people that has been a major reason this campaign has come this far and we'll need these voices to get Barack Obama to the White House!
Stop by a "Barack to School!" event at your school and learn how you can get involved. It's the chance to change America while having your own life-changing experience.
Click here to find an event near you!

Matt and Haley in Janesville

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:33:45 EDT

Matt and his daughter Haley have been doing a ton of work in the Campaign for Change office in Janesville -- an whether its knocking on doors or decorating the office, they've both have a great time working for change in southern Wisconsin
Take a look at some of the photos Matt's taken over the last few weeks

Voices for Change: Margot in Viroqua

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 20:09:32 EDT

Margot has been working for change for over a year now in her hometown of Viroqua. That's her above with Barack during the recent barbecue Obama attended in Eau Claire. The photo Barack's holding was taken by Margot's father and is a family heirloom she wanted to share with Obama.
Here's Margot's story in her own words:
I helped canvass in Minnesota before their caucus and I held a "honk for Obama" sign on the main drag for 2 weekends straight before the primary here in WI. I felt very alone during the primaries but thankfully, that has changed!
I am now a volunteer at the Crawford/Vernon Democratic Headquarters here in Viroqua. I have become a state-wide voter registration deputy, registered 27 people so far, and have helped plan Convention watching parties, house parties, and recently a large fundraiser. And I am not alone anymore. Now that we have our own office, I get to talk to people from all walks of life on a daily basis and I am so elated and encouraged by the response we are getting.
Because of my involvement I recently had the opportunity to help at a small gathering in Eau Clair with Governor Doyle, Senator Feingold and Senator Barack Obama. I had the great pleasure of speaking with Senator Obama and have my picture taken with him. He took the time to connect with me one day before the Democratic Convention began and I was overwhelmed by the kindness he showed me. I know that I am working for the right candidate and that he appreciates everything volunteers are doing on this campaign's behalf.

There are thousands of fantastic volunteers across Wisconsin just like Margot. Stop by your local Campaign for Change field office and learn how you can make a change for America today!

Clips from Joe Biden's Visit to Green Bay

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:40:21 EDT

Joe Biden's campaign stop to Green Bay yesterday made a lot of headlines around Wisconsin and the country. Here are just a few:
From Katie Rosenberg at the Newsline 9 blog in Wausau:
Everyone was pumped up by the time Joe Biden came out. The enthusiastic crowd drowned out the speakers with cheers and clapping. Biden jumped right on the theme of the day, "Barack and I know why we're running," he said. "...we're going to restore the middle class and restore our place in the world." He also jumped on the republicans chiding, "This is not your father's republican party." At the Republican National Convention, Biden admonished, republican lawmakers ignored the issues. "The silence was deafening," he scolded. He attempted to paint a picture of an out of touch GOP that disregards the middle class by not talking about energy assistance, health care and college assistance.
Veterans sat in the seats directly behind Biden and if there was an audience theme, I think it was the war in Iraq. The crowd went absolutely wild when he talked about the war. "We will end this war in Iraq," he asserted. "We'll protect those who are going and take care of those coming home." Biden called veterans' benefits a sacred government obligation.

From ABC News:
The Green Bay Packers kick off their season tonight at Lambeau Field, so Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del., stopped off this afternoon at Kroll's West, a restaurant & bar just across the street from the not-yet-frozen tundra. "You guys start early, huh?" Biden remarked when he walked into the crowded scene just after noon local time.
With ESPN showing highlights of former Packer Brett Favre's debut Sunday with the New York Jets, Biden toured the restaurant, regaling the Cheesehead faithful with the tale of how he - a Pennsylvania native - became a Packer fan himself. As the story goes, Biden took a liking to the green-and-gold back when he was a student at Wilmington's Archmere Academy, a Catholic school where a lot was riding on the outcome of Green Bay games...
"If the Packers won, we got out early," he told fans. "If the Packers lost, we got extra homework. We were all Packers fans. And back in those days, that was Jimmy Taylor, Paul Hornung, Bart Starr and those guys…"
[...]
One Packer fan in particular stood out, a gentleman five weeks away from his 100th birthday. Biden greeted the man just before exiting, leaving the fans free to enjoy their butter burgers, brats, cheese curds, and cold beverages...

From the Appleton Post-Crescent:
Biden found two fans in Gayle Vannes, a Minneapolis resident from Green Bay, and Green Bay resident Diane Dobberstein who promised the senator he had their vote when he stopped at their table.
"There was no hesitation at all," Dobberstein said. "I think we all want a change."
More after the jump...
Read More!

Joe Biden Wows Titletown!

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:28:19 EDT

Just had to pass this one along from the Green Bay Press-Gazette:

Supporters say Biden's a 'decent guy'

In an audience peppered with union T-shirts and vociferous support for mill workers, it's little surprise attendees at Sen. Joe Biden's Green Bay speech were looking for a down-to-earth guy.
Supporters of the Democratic vice presidential nominee said they found that Monday when Biden, D-Del., stopped in Green Bay for a town hall meeting and a bite to eat at Kroll's West.
"This morning again, his honesty and his (forthrightness) came out first," said Dan VandenBush, 51, a Green Bay steelworker. "... If you look at Sen. Biden's voting record, for his whole career, he's been 95 percent-plus for working families.
"On the issues we heard today -- health care, fair trade, not free trade, and the economy, and he's been there consistently.
"So it's very easy to follow a guy like this."
For Michael Moss of Kewaunee, a 25-year-old with a newborn daughter, health care is the No. 1 issue of the campaign. But having a potential vice president he can relate to also is important, Moss said.
"I've liked him since he started running," Moss said before Biden's speech.
"He seems like a decent guy, and he understands what working people have to do. He has a family of his own, and it seems like he keeps his family life simple."
After Biden spoke Monday, Moss was even more impressed, he said. He enjoyed having the chance to learn more about Sen. Barack Obama's running mate, and described Biden as "real down-to-earth."
Joe Roach, who campaigns for Obama in the Pelican Lake area, similarly was impressed. He started out as a supporter of New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, but now is all for the Obama-Biden ticket.
"Joe Biden is a brilliant gentleman, and he's been through a lot of tough times," Roach said. "And he's an ordinary working-class guy who came up through the ranks. … He's our kind of guy."

090608 canvassing

arno — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 00:50:32 EDT
i went canvassing for dood today btw

of 26 contacts

Obama 12
McCain 9
undecided 5

in lilly white traditionally GOP-heaven Da Quon mind you

it was funny how many of the McCain people were all "oh, this is a bad neighborhood for you", so i was all "oh, it's better than you think.
have a lovely day!"

...and a lot of the Obama people were convinced that they were alone. i hipped them to the scene man.

What Did You Do During Your Summer Vacation?

Ian Jungbacker — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 12:03:59 EDT

Even though many high school students aren't yet of voting age, it's important to realize that they still have a voice in our democracy - and with school getting back in session all over Wisconsin, now is the perfect time for young voters to get involved in shaping the future of their country.
Many high school students have been actively engaged in the campaign for months now. All over Wisconsin, young people have immersed themselves in Barack's movement for change by knocking on doors, calling their neighbors and organizing their friends. Some of these students, who aren't even old enough to drive yet, have taken on some of the most important tasks of of the campaign -- like Maria in Appleton, who wrote in to talk about her experience as an intern in the local Campaign for Change office:

I'm fifteen years old and a sophomore in high school. I've been interested in politics for awhile, but it wasn't until this historic election that I decided to get involved. I was really hesitant at first, because I didn't know if my friends and I would be accepted or not, since we can't even vote yet. This has not been the case at all. The field organizers and other volunteers who work out of the Appleton office treat us with so much respect, and we look forward to coming in every day because of how positive of an experience they have made this for us. They have become our second family.
With every phone call I make and every door I knock on, my faith in this campaign strengthens. Everybody is involved for essentially the same reason, they know this is the time we need to elect Barack Obama and begin to make the steps necessary for our country's progress. I want this world to be a better place for my children, and through working with this campaign, I now know that it will be. This is an experience that will stay with me forever, along with the lessons I have learned from everybody that I have been fortunate enough to meet. Yes We Can!

In late July Maria and over 20 other high school students from the Fox Valley area gathered at a friend's house to meet with Campaign for Change staff and volunteers who showed them how they could take an active role in electing Barack Obama to the White House. The group met for roughly an hour, telling their stories and learning how to canvass, and when the meeting adjourned, nearly all of them grabbed a walk list and hit the streets to spread the word.
Here are some photos from the afternoon:

Register for Change with Howard Dean

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 21:30:31 EDT

On Tuesday Democratic National Committee Chairman and former Vermont Governor Howard Dean made a few stops in the Badger State to encourage students to register to vote and get active in their communities.
Dean stopped by the Marquette University campus around noon to fire up students at the Milwaukee school:
Addressing about 115 supporters on the first floor of the Alumni Memorial Union, Dean stressed the need for students to become active in politics and contribute to Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama's campaign. He said it is vital for students to vote, but also to motivate others to vote and become involved.
"In 2004, John Kerry won Wisconsin by about 9,000 votes," Dean said. "That's about the number of undergraduates at Marquette University. We need to win Wisconsin. We won't win this without you."

Following his visit in Milwaukee Dean hopped aboard the "Register for Change" tour bus and made his way west down I-94 for a quick stop in Madison.
Just prior to Dean's arrival, a group of UW Obama supporters marched from campus down State Street to the County Clerk's office on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. where students were encouraged to update their registration. The students then took their enthusiasm back to the rally just in time for Chairman Dean to arrive.
Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk each gave Chairman Dean a warm welcome to the large crowd that assembled just off Capitol Square.
Dean spoke about the need for young people to get involved in their communities at every level - from school boards to county boards to charitable organizations that reach out to people in need. The Governor said that he has been amazed by the civic-mindedness of this generation of voters and urged young people to make community involvement a staple of their adult lives.
Here are a ton of photos from the event, courtesy of Ally and Teddy:

Here's video from the event.

Rally for America's Workers: Video

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:28:31 EDT

Rally for America's Workers: "Alone We are Weak, but United We are Strong"

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:55:10 EDT

Just after 6:00 p.m. Barack Obama took the stage of the Marcus Amphitheater to a crowd that greeted him with a standing ovation while erupting into a chorus of "Yes we can!"
Barack told the audience that he planned on coming here to talk about organized labor and the contributions made by the labor movement to building America's economy. He called the labor movement "the backbone of our economy and the backbone of America."
"Sometimes people ask me, 'Why do you support unions so strongly?'" Barack said. "And I have to ask them, 'Why don't you?' … Even if you're not a union member, you've benefited from a union."
Obama announced that he had planned on speaking about this plans to "promote policies that honor the dignity of work," but that the hardships faced by the people of the Gulf Coast on the day when Hurricane Gustav made landfall should be foremost on the minds of all Americans.
"So tonight is not a night for political speeches. It's a day for all of us to come together as Americans and send our thoughts and prayers to our brothers and sisters who worry in this hour about losing their homes and their livelihoods and their loved ones."
Barack encouraged the crowd to see what they could do by contacting the American Red Cross.
"In times of need there are no political parties. In times of need there are no red states or blue states -- in times of need there is only the United States of America."
More after the pics...

Read More!

Rally for America's Workers: Andy from Kimberly

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 06:19:03 EDT
On the Day when Wisconsinites and Americans celebrate working men and women everywhere, there was news that middle-class Wisconsin families continue to be hit hard by the rising prices and job cuts that have been a hallmark of the current economy.
And someone who knows this first hand is Andy Nirschl.
Andy, who is the president of the United Steelworks Local 2-9, reflected on the economic impact that the closing of the NewPage paper mill - announced barely a month ago - will have on the small Outagamie County community of Kimberly.
475 jobs will be lost (in addition to a 125 job downsizing that occurred in May) - despite the fact that the mill continues to make a quality, profitable product.
NewPage has been one of the Kimberly's largest employers for generations and a staple of the local economy. It's also the last of the paper mills to operate in Kimberly, a city with such a proud tradition in the paper industry that the high school mascot is the Papermaker.
"This story is sadly being repeated in town after town across America," Andy told the crowd. "We don't have the leadership or the commitment in the White House to fight for us and we cannot afford four more years of the same. Barack Obama knows it's time for change."
Andy spoke about meeting Barack before the program began: "[Barack] met with my wife and daughter and asked them how they were doing, and how Kimberly was doing … He cares about us, he knows what it means to have families struggle."

Rally For America's Workers: Warming up Wisconsin

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 22:31:22 EDT

Mayor Tom Barrett, one of Barack earliest supporters, kicked off the program speaking about the hope and energy he experienced at the DNC in Denver. Recalling his reaction when he first heard Obama left law school to return to work in communities on Chicago's South Side, Barrett said he thought, "That's my kind of guy!"
"Experience in the real world -- that's what I want in my president... We can have a fundamental change in this country ... We need every single person here to commit themselves to elected Barack Obama to be the next President of the United States," the Mayor said, bringing the crowd to its feet.
Wisconsin AFL-CIO Secratery-Treasure Phil Neuenfeldt followed Mayor Barrett by asking the audience for a moment of silence for those in the path of Hurricane Gustav.
For too long, Neunenfeldt said, working people have been experiencing "the wrong kind of hope -- We hope we don't lose our job. We hope we don't out pension. We hope we don't don't lose our house to foreclosure ... well enough is enough!
"Something is going on -- can't you just feel it?"
Governor Jim Doyle followed Neuenfeldt noting that he was honored to welcome Barack back to Wisconsin. "We can restore the American Dream," he said, as the crowd burst out into a chant of "Yes we can!"
"We live in Wisconsin, and in Wisconsin it's going to be a tough fight. It's going to be a close election; it's going to be an election that means we have to get everyone to vote." But it's an election that union members and other Democrats can win because we have "the greatest mechanism for voter turnout, we have the most inspiring candidate this country has seen since John F. Kennedy."
More after the jump...
Read More!

Barack in Milwaukee for Labor Day!!!

Ian Jungbacker — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 21:39:38 EDT

Barack Obama will visit Wisconsin for the second time in two weeks this Monday -- Labor Day -- and will be the headlining speaker at the Rally for America's Workers at the Marcus Amphitheater.
The event is free and open to the public -- but attendees will need to get a ticket at area Campaign for Change offices to attend.
A list of the offices that are distributing tickets is after the jump...
Read More!

Ozaukee County Office Opening

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:30:24 EDT

There's still time to drop in at the grand opening of the Ozaukee County Campaign for Change headquarters tonight. Join special guests State Representative and Candidate for the State Senate Sheldon Wasserman and Wayne Larrivee and meet fellow Obama/Biden supporters from your neighborhood!
Here are the details:

Ozaukee County Campaign for Change Office Opening
Thursday, August 28
6:30 PM
10521N Port Washington Rd
Thiensville, WI 53092
Click here for more information and to RSVP!

OZAUKEE COUNTY CAMPAIGN EVENTS - JOIN US

Marjie Tomter — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:22:07 EDT

Here's a list of some recurring events and some one-time happenings that are going on this week.

(Meeting at the new office - 10521 N Port Washington Rd (Entrance E) - unless otherwise noted)

"Calling all Ozaukee to Stand for Change" - phones - Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-9pm (bring your cell phone)

"Walking the talk for Barack" - Neighbor to neighbor canvassing - Thursdays from 5pm, Saturdays from 10am-2pm and from 2-6pm, and Sundays from 2-6pm

A few major events coming up are below as well:

-Ozaukee County Office Opening and Convention Watch - Tuesday, August 26th 6:30-9:30pm

-"Yes We Can!" - Official Convention Watch Party - Thursday, August 28th from 7:30-10:30pm (Shinners' home in Mequon - 4404 W. Meadow Circle East - Mequon, WI 53097)

And then a huge weekend of canvasses across the entire state. In Ozaukee we're calling them "We are the ones we've been waiting for" canvasses:

Saturday, August 30 - 10-2pm, 2-6pm
Sunday, August 31 - 2-6pm
Monday, September 1 - 10-2pm, 2-6pm

Ozaukee County Campaign Office

Jerry — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:14:35 EDT
I just came from opening up the new office in Mequon. What a great bunch of people! Thank you ALL for all of your contributions and hard work! The office is really taking shape in it's first few hours of life. What impressed me the most was the age range of the volunteers. The media would have Americans believe that Senator Obama can't reach voters my age and older. (50 something white working class citizens.) The media should attend some of our functions. From college students to retirees, we are all working to change American politics. The energy is infectious. Let's pray for an Obama epidemic in November!!

House Party, Grafton, WI

Scott W — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:52:50 EDT

Jenny and I are hosting a house party in Grafton! Join us for wine, beer, coffee, snacks and (hopefully) some lively discussion about the Obama campaign.
    When: Friday August 15, 2008 at 7:00 PM
    Where: 261 W. Maple St. in Grafton
Look in the "Events" section to RSVP.
    -Scott W.

an office in Ozaukee County??? fact or fiction?

Marjie Tomter — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 11:48:16 EDT

Hi Ozaukee

As most of you know by now, Ozaukee is sharing an office with Washington County in West Bend, right there in the historical north end of Main Street. That's cool but one long drive especially for most of us who live in the southern half of this county.
The good news is that we have the possibility of opening an office in Mequon near Mequon Road and I-43. How cool would that be? and how convenient for all of us and convenient to MATC, Concordia and Homestead as well.
Opportunity is knocking on this and we need to answer the door. The campaign does not have the funds to pay for the office but we can do it ourselves. We have a generous building owner who is going to cut us the deal of the century on this. I will know by Wednesday what that equates to in math terms. Right now I am surveying to see who else might be interested in helping to fund this. So far, there are 7 folks who have said they would pitch in and we need a few more. I will send an email to this group when I have the final figures to work with, so think about if you might be interested in pitching in a few dollars a month for the next 2.5 months to cover the costs. $5.00 maybe?
If you are an active volunteer, you would be paying $4.00 in gas one way to West Bend for meetings and training...and you might even want to come home for another $4...so just for the cost of gas to and from, we could likely fund an office right here.
I think an office in Mequon would surely send a message to the county that the Obama Campaign is not only alive and well here, but that we are very much integrated into the community.
It would also be cool to get the message out that the Obama Campaign here is comprised of a strong mix of political backgrounds, neither Democrat nor Republican...but a collection of educated people who are working together to get this nation back on its feet.
Times are changing in Ozaukee! This is awesome:)

House Party Invite

Tricia — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 12:25:28 EDT

Hello to the Ozuakee county group. I have just joined and wanted to invite everyone to a house party I am having Sunday August 10th at 5pm. We will have the usual hour of information and chatting and we will have wine, beer, coffee and dessert available.
Please join us if you can.
We are at W73 N734 Locust avenue
Cedarburg
I just posted it so it should be in the events list
Tricia

Road Trip to Denver

Dale from Grafton, WI — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:08:58 EDT

There is a group of Obama supporters from Wisconsin who are planning a road trip to Denver. We would love to make this a "CONVOY". If you or anyone you know is planning on making the trip, please let me know. We will try to meet up on the way.

Currently, we are planning on leaving Wisconsin on Sunday 8/24.
If you are coming from the west or south, we will try to meet up in Denver.
Hope to hear from many of you!
Dale Lehrer
Grafton, WI

Barack Morning Buzz - 8-1-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 08:50:32 EDT
Barack Morning Buzz - 8-1-08
On to Victory in November

(1) Houston Backers Shell Out for Obama
Alan Bernstein-Houston Chronicle
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/hotstories/5918755.html

(2) Obama's Iowa Crowd Elects Him President Already
Andrew Malcolm-Los Angeles Times-Top of the Ticket
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2008/08/president-obama.html

(3) After Trailing McCain in Florida, Obama Makes Up Ground
Martha T. Moore-USA Today-Campaign 2008
http://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/election2008/2008-07-31-Obama-McCain-Florida_N.htm

(4) Obama and McCain to Visit Michigan Next Week
Kathleen Gray-Detroit Free Press
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080731/NEWS15/80731065/1008/news06

(5) Virginia Governor Tim Kaine's Versatile Appeal Gives Him a Shot to Run with Obama
Corey Dade-Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121755102020902911.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

(6) Obama-Kaine-A Winning Ticket?
John Nichols-Then Nation
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/oped/bal-op.kaine01aug01,0,7531092.story

(7) Obama Opens Platform to Rank and File as Focus Turns to Economy
Indira A.R. Lakshmanan-Bloomberg
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601070&sid=afmDe4gDpi9Q&refer=home

(8) Obama and McCain Square Off Over Racial Politics
Liz Sidoti-Associated Press
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080801/ap_on_el_pr/campaign_race_22

(9) Who Started It? Obama and McCain Camps Trade Barbs
Douglass K. Daniel-Associated Press
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080801/ap_on_el_pr/campaign_race_23

(10) McCain Mocks Obama's Fame
Chip Reid-CBS News
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phBBnxXJdoM&eurl=http://news.google.com/news?hl=en&q=Barack+Obama&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&oi=news_group&resnum=4&ctiurl=http://i.ytimg.com/vi/phBBnxXJdoM/default.jpg

(11) Obama Risks Voter Ire by Opposing New Oil Drilling
Mike Glover-Associated Press
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080801/ap_on_el_pr/obama_the_price_of_saying_no_4

(12) McCain Ad Irritates Many in Hollywood
Tina Daunt-Los Angeles Times
http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-et-cause1-2008aug01,0,4172463.story

(13) Campaigns' Iraq Stances Seem to Hit a Middle Ground
Karen De Young-Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/01/AR2008080102966.html?hpid=topnews

(14) McCain Camp Says Obama is Playing "Race Card"
Michael Cooper and Michael Powell-New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/01/us/politics/01campaign.html?ref=us

The British Invasion & Obama is Reading my Blog!

Greg McGlothlen — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 05:48:45 EDT

Good Morning Faithful Reader! Yr Humble Correspondent and Voice in the UK took a much-needed break this weekend - enjoying the summer sun. While the pundits and columnists here sliced, diced and analysed Obama's visit to the UK, I gathered my wits, painstakingly sifted all the press, and prepared the following for your entertainment. But before we get to the best of the opinion and comment in the British press, as well as the usual local knowledge...
Is it possible?
Dare I think it?
Is HE actually reading this? (keeping in mind of course, as previously established that he is not "He")
You be the judge, based on this snippet garnered right from this very website...
When the Senator went to 10 Downing Street he was granted an opportunity to visit the garden as well as stroll with the PM through the square behind the residence. One of the things they discussed was a statue of another gentleman from Illinois, Abraham Lincoln. The Augustus Saint-Gaudens statue in Parliament Square London is an exact replica of the one in Lincoln Park in Chicago.
As those of you who have been paying attention know, this statue and its origins have been discussed previously in this blog (see below). It's just too much to fathom. I think my head just exploded... or turned inside out like it does when someone tries to explain the Theory of Relativity to me. Have I inadvertently made a microscopic contribution to global small talk in the humble service of you dear reader? Best not to think about it really.
We dare not consider that this "blogger" (note: I now prefer the term "e-Diarist" after Samuel Pepys) has our future President's ear (or in this case eye), so we carry on as we were before, not speaking of ourselves in the third person...
Sen. Obama's short visit to the UK was carried live on the BBC 24 hour news channel. Commentary here was mostly about whether Obama could help UK PM Gordon Brown politically and of course whether it meant anything that Obama did not spend much time here in the UK and that we were last on the itinerary - Much hand-wringing about that. What is the condition of the US-UK "Special Relationship?" (a term first coined by Winston Churchill - and yes - it has its very own Wiki entry) What would it be like under President Obama? This was discussed at great length.
You are no doubt aware that he met the PM, also Tony Blair (former PM of course and now Special Envoy to the Middle East) and opposition leader (i.e. Conservative/Tory Leader) David Cameron. You are probably also aware of the conversation picked up by an ABC microphone where Barack is heard to say "... actually the most important thing you need to do is to have big chunks of time during the day when all you're doing is thinking." I agree wholeheartedly. After this, I'm going to do just that - some quality navel-gazing!
On to the editorials... We'll move our way from right to left today - i.e. start with the Telegraph (conservative) - sometimes known as the "Torygraph" over here. My mother-in-law reads it. "Does Obama ever Think of Us?":
Britain's chattering classes should be careful what they wish for. Senator Obama promises change and a bold new course for the United States. The end result may be an America that looks away from Britain and erects higher barriers to trade and investment.
Then to the Irish Independent, "Don't be conned by globalist Obama" which isn't really worth quoting. Back more towards the center with "Obama speaks to the brain and the heart" in the London Times:
By delivering speeches ... densely argued and historically referenced, Mr Obama is consciously asking more of his audience. It creates a political vulnerability, making it easier to dismiss him as a liberal elitist out of touch with the good ol' boys who decide the crucial swing states. But it also creates a political possibility - that the presidential election may be decided on the basis of intellectual arguments...
Moving further leftwards we have this offering from The Scotsman, "The Obama roadshow rolls into London":
... he was the "must get" man. For tourists, prime ministers, UN envoys, leaders of the opposition and the press, Barack Obama was the only one they really wanted to photograph or to be seen with. The US presidential hopeful chose to spend the last day of his Middle East and European tour in London, cementing the 'special relationship' between the UK and America before flying back across the Atlantic.
And finally, this from the liberal Guardian, "He came, he saw, he sprinkled us with stardust. Even Gordon smiled."
He has a devilish, wicked, lopsided little half-smile, does Mr Barack Obama, and the instincts in his face want him to use it. Just as well, really, because it pulls him back into the realm of humanity, and without it we might be in danger of trading hallelujahs and tugging his frayed hem.
'He's not the President,' reprimands the copper keeping crowds at bay outside the House of Commons. 'Yes, he is!' wails a fat white sunburnt American. 'He's my President! Let me throooough, man, let me through!'
<ed: No that was not me parleying with London's finest>
It was also noticed with some good-natured amusement here that Barack shook the hands of the two bobbies outside No. 10 Downing Street as he walked in. Is he really that nice and polite, or was he just tired and stuck in robo-campaign-bot mode? It's enough to keep the tabloids here busy for awhile...
So with that we must dip into the photo archives today, as it was fairly higgledy-piggledy around here this weekend, and my London journey had to be scrubbed at the last minute. Not to worry though as my Middle East trip has been confirmed and booked (destination still classified) and there are more local trips in the works. Does anyone know anyone who either lives in or is visiting the Gloucestershire area who would like to join me? Two would be a lot better than one...
Today's photo is taken at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, Scotland. This photo is actually taken in the ruined Holyrood Abbey next to the Palace, which is directly across the street from the new Scottish Parliament. (helpful note for tourists: Edinburgh is pronounced "ED-in-burr-ah" not "Eed-en-BURG")
And because we always go that extra step for you here at the blog:
My Top 10 Things I Like About Living in the UK*
(* but first, in case you didn't know... "England" is a country, which along with "Wales" and "Scotland" (also individual countries) are located on the island of "Great Britain." These 3 countries along with the country of "Northern Ireland" combine to form the "UK" or the "United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland")
So, without further ado and with apologies to David Letterman (and with all due respect to all the things I love about living in the U.S.A.)...
10. There are lots of sheep! (and lots of jokes about Welshmen and sheep)
9. Boxing Day (yes I know they have it in Canada too...)
8. The Royal Family (an endless source of both pride and amusement)
7. Gardening (this is not a "nation of shopkeepers", it's a nation of gardeners)
6. Your Driver's License is good for life! (no annoying renewals...)
5. You can fly to Venice for the weekend!
4. Prime Minister's Questions (rowdy, funny, weekly, and way better than anything on C-Span)
3. Bonfire Night/Guy Fawkes (we have fireworks in the winter when you don't have to wait until 10 p.m. for it to be dark!)
2. Pubs! (a cross between a living room and a tavern. They have not been successfully reproduced anywhere.)
1. The People. What a great sense of humor they have: it can be rowdy, bawdy, or so sharp and subtle you don't even know you've been cut down to size until you see the blood spilling out. Everyone and everything is fair game. Also legendary politeness, a sense of history, dignity and ceremony which covers an intense passion and great courage which lies just under the surface.
p.s. Special thanks - shout out! - to the Obama supporters in Ozaukee County Wisconsin for finding(!), reading and supporting my blog. You guys keep me going - thanks!
Greg

Barack Evening Buzz - 7-23-08

Barack Daily Buzz - Victory2008.net — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:38:07 EDT
Barack Evening Buzz - 7-23-08
On to Victory in November

(1) Obama Campaign Makes $5 Million Olympic Ad Buy
Paul Thomasch-Reuters
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080724/pl_nm/usa_politics_obama_advertising_dc_1

(2) Obama Says He is Committed to Israel's Security
Associated Press
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7IMp5tw9t8

(3) Obama Bows Heads in Prayer at Western Wall in Jerusalem
Dave Espo-Associated Press
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080724/ap_on_el_pr/obama_56

(4) Obama Works to Rally Jewish Support
Noam N. Levey-Los Angeles Times
http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-jewishvote24-2008jul24,0,5020007.story

(5) Obama Working to Ensure Jewish Vote
Jonathan Weisman and Michelle Boorstein-Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/23/AR2008072303276.html

(6) The Obama Show Lands in Israel
Aluf Benn-Salon
http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/07/24/obama_in_israel/

(7) Campaign War Chests Near $200 Million
Robert Yoon-CNN-Political Research Director
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/07/23/campaign.warchests/

(8) Refighting the Surge Gets McCain Nowhere Against Obama
Tom Teepen-Seattle Post-Intelligencer
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/opinion/371917_teepenonline24.html

(9) Hip Hop Artist Nas Protests FOX Coverage of Obama
Associated Press
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2008-07-23-nas-fox_N.htm

(10) Obama and McCain Plan Wisconsin Events
Associated Press
http://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/election2008/2008-07-23-Wisconsin_N.htm

(11) Obama and McCain Have Spent $7.2 Million on Michigan TV Ads
Associated Press
http://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/election2008/2008-07-23-ads-campaign_N.htm

(12) How Much Does McCain Really Know About Foreign Policy?
Fred Kaplan-Slate
http://www.slate.com/id/2195865/

(13) As Obama Heads to Germany, Republicans Appeal To American Berliners
David Alexander-Reuters
http://blogs.reuters.com/trail08/2008/07/23/as-obama-heads-to-germany-republicans-appeal-to-us-berliners/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTCwKYQOGHs

(14) Obama and the Surge-New Improved Answer Needed
Don Frederick-Los Angeles Times-Top of the Ticket
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2008/07/barack-obama--2.html

Need a Lift to Denver?

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:04:59 EDT

Just over a month from now Barack Obama will formally accept the Democratic Party's presidential nomination at a historic and open convention in Denver (… and if you make a donation to the campaign between now and the end of July you might find yourself in possession of one of the best seats in the house!)

But if you can't score backstage passes, don't let that deter you from making the trip out west.

Not long ago I got a message from Moe in Madison through one of the mutual MyBO groups we share. Moe's looking for companions to help ease the cost of making a trip out to Denver for the DNC.

Chances are there are more than a few Wisconsinites with the same idea, so we've created a MyBO group for folks from the state looking to enjoy a good old-fashioned road trip to the Rockies with a few of their neighbors. Wisconsin Representing in Denver is a great place will serve as the unofficial gathering place for Badgers from around the state to meet and organize trips to Barack's historic acceptance speech in Denver.

Stop by, find a fellow traveler, enjoy the sights and sounds of the Mile High City, then come back fired up and ready to put Barack in the White House:

Reaching Out to Everyone

Ian Jungbacker — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:58:35 EDT

One of the ways Barack Obama plans on uniting the country is to bring his message to every last state in the Union -- red or blue.
Here in Wisconsin, the Campaign for Change will do the same thing, and nowhere is that more apparent than in Waukesha County.
Here's WTMJ4's take on the office opening last night:
Senator Obama already has almost ten campaign offices in Wisconsin. What makes the latest one different, is that it's in Waukesha County, one of the strongest Republican counties in the state.
Back in 2004, 67 percent of Waukesha County voted to re-elect President Bush. Volunteers and staff members hope to turn the tides by stepping up the Obama campaign in Waukesha County.
They say even if they can't win in Waukesha, there's still a lot of Democratic votes in the county.
TODAY'S TMJ4's Michael George: "A lot of people would say that here in Waukesha County, it's an uphill battle."
"We do, but it's great to be here and I think what we're seeing is the response has been tremendous," Tessa Bray said.
Check out video from the newscast here.

Offices Opening in Racine, Waukesha, and Stevens Point Today

Ian Jungbacker — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:32:25 EDT
The Campaign for Change will be holding kick-off open houses in three more communities in Wisconsin today:

STEVENS POINT
1108 Main Street
Stevens Point, WI
Wednesday, July 16th
5:00 p.m.
Join guests Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., State Sen. Julie Lassa, State Representative Louis Molepske, Jr., State Rep. Amy Sue Vruwink, and Mayor Andy Halverson.
Click here for more details and to R.S.V.P.

WAUKESHA
804 Grand Street
Waukesha, WI
July 16th
4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
With invited special guests Mayor Larry Nelson and State Representative Sheldon Wasserman.
Click here for more details and to R.S.V.P.

RACINE
522 6th Street
Racine, WI
July 16th
6:00 p.m.
Featuring invited special guests State Senator John Lehman, State Representative Bob Turner, State Representative Cory Mason, and Mayor Gary Becker.
Click here for more details and to R.S.V.P.

"America's Leadership"

Ian Jungbacker — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:51:10 EDT

The campaign began running this ad on television in Wisconsin today highlighting Barack's efforts to curb arms proliferation.

Take a look:

The ad features Barack's bipartisan work along side Sen. Richard Lugar, with whom he co-authored this editorial on the subject of arms proliferation for the Washington Post.

Strategy Session with David Plouffe

Ian Jungbacker — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:05:10 EDT

Here's campaign manager David Plouffe with a short update on the state of the race right now:

Click here to send this video to your friends.

A link to the video was sent out in an email this morning:

Ian --

The McCain campaign is bragging that they are out-raising and out-spending us.

They had their best month ever in June, and combined with the Republican National Committee, they now have more than $95 million in cash on hand.

With this massive fundraising effort, they claim they've been out-spending us 3-to-1 on TV ads over the past couple months.

Unfortunately, when it comes to collecting giant checks from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs, McCain and the RNC do have a lot to brag about.

They are raking in huge donations from those who want to keep Washington just the way it is. And they are pulling ahead in the money race.

To compete against these big money interests in all 50 states, this campaign is relying on you.

We need to respond to the McCain campaign and show them how presidential campaigns should be funded -- by ordinary people like you giving only what you can afford.

I recorded a short video in my office about what we are up against and why now is the time to step up and make your first donation.

Watch the video and make a donation of $25 now:

https://donate.barackobama.com/stepup

As much money as they already have, this is just the beginning.

On top of their current $95 million in cash on hand, the campaign has said they expect to raise another $95 million by the end of the summer.

Based on their record so far, they're good for it.

They know that the big money interests will continue pouring millions into McCain's campaign, the RNC, and shadowy outside money groups -- whatever it takes to stop our movement so they can hold on to their influence in Washington.

It's going to take unprecedented resources and organization to compete against this broken, entrenched system.

Together, we've created the largest grassroots movement in history, and your efforts have put us in a position to build a campaign for change in all 50 states. Now, we need your help to keep us in a strong position at this crucial moment.

Watch the video and make your first donation of $25 to help this movement take on John McCain and the RNC:

https://donate.barackobama.com/stepup

Read More!