National Call Team

Phone calls across our nation

Life long Democrat — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:51:19 EST

I signed up for Camp Obama thinking that I was going to stuff envelopes- not actually talk to real people....especially people across our nation. That myth was shattered quickly and happily. After my first calls to New Mexico, I became hooked. I called from the office on Shaw and Maroa, my home, and at Obama gatherings on the weekends. I talked with people in Ohio, Virginia, Nevada,Colorado, Missouri, and Pennsylvania. I have forged bonds with those who both supported Obama and were on the fence. One theme emerged after each session. The need to reduce the division and heal the broken promises. Some felt betrayed by politicians, others had a need to say everything bad about one candidate or another. Each time, I found a way to meet halfway.

I learned that the folks in Ohio were so friendly and kind. Even if they were voting for another candidate, they were nice about it. Virgina was close behind. I was surprised that the closer I got to the West Coast, the less tolerant the voter. As a native born and bred Californian, I assumed that all Westerners were just friendly. Maybe I got some people at a bad moment.

I learned about the lives of so many folks. First, the pundits are wrong. Age is not a barrier to reasoning the better candidate. The wisest voters were those who were chronologically older but of a much younger spirit. One woman who was in her eighties shared that she cast her vote for Obama for her grandchildren so they would not have to die in Iraq. I think those who experience the worst of Hard Times know what is ahead and want to protect their families from the pain they recall.

Serving as a volunteer on the Phone Bank has enriched my life and left me feeling that our nation has grown into that Purple majesties..the reds and blues have seeped together to form a purple hue.

Later today, when my youngest daughter gets off work, we will go together to cast our votes for Obama. Our daughter who is living and studying in Paris France says that Parisiens stopped her as she waited in line to talk to her and ask about her Obama button. The French, Katie says, are so interested in the election that it is broadcast all day long. They, who are not ususally interested, are hoping that Obama wins.

Today is a day to remember. Today is a day to cherish. I am proud to be an American. I am proud that I could make a small ..less than small.. a fraction of a fraction contribution to the whole that I now feel a part of.

Peace,

Eleanor

Was Last Night My Last? Oh No!

Alisa Marie from Sacramento, CA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 09:05:27 EST

At 8p last night I spoke with Pamela in Charlotte, North Carolina.

I began the campaign script.

Me: Hi, my name is Alisa

Before I said another word...

Pamela: Who do you want me to vote for?

Me: Obama!

Pamela: Done!

Alisa: Thank you so very much. Would you please spread the word to your family & friends?

Pamela: Done that!

Alisa: I know it's getting late but perhaps you would like to go on-line & make calls?

Pamela: Happy to!

Alisa: You made my day!

Pamela: Glad to hear it. Goodbye!

Out of all the states I have called this year, North Carolina was my biggest challenge. Or was it Ohio?

There were a lot of people who refused to speak with me & I can get just about anyone to converse.

I made 703 calls in Wisconsin & have to say at times they felt like neighbors. They were friendly & listened because at this point they did not know anything about Mr. Obama.

Went on to make thousands of calls but Wisconsin was special. I always liked people in the Mid-West.

I wrote hundreds of letters to people asking them to donate money.

I wrote to friends & colleagues when Palin jumped in. I wrote friends last week asking them to spread the word.

One friend wrote & said it will be so rewarding for you when Barak wins. I was startled. It was never about me. It was always about him.

Last night O said the people he has met have inspired him. He has inspired me in countless ways. More than any other presidential candidate in my life.

I live in Spanish Harlem in New York City. When I went to the bodega this morning, the Arab cashier, the Mexican cook & the African-American superintendent were undecided. While I was waiting for my egg sandwich, I spoke. Didn't walk out of there until I had the cashier & the cook promise to vote for O. The African-American said "All politicians say they are gonna do something different & they never do." Didn't waste my time on him. Not because I wasn't passionate but I knew it was time to get home & start sending postcards THINKMTV.COM has set up to send to people.

This I know: Barack Obama is the man to save our country. When he says he will wake up every single morning & work for us, I don't doubt him for a second. Will the war in Iraq end with Obama in office? Yes. In Afghanistan? Who has even won there?

Will he tax the rich & help the poor? ABSOLUTELY.

Will he set up a new healthcare systems? Yes but not right away.

Will he inspire people of all ages to volunteer? YES.

There's so much more but this is a precious day & I have to spread the word in every way I can.

God Bless Ameria!

AMB

Nervous, but hopeful.

Cathy — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 07:33:47 EST

After making many calls and talking to a lot of wonderful people, I am very hopeful about the outcome today. However, after making many calls and talking to a lot of wonderful people, I am also nervous. The reason for my nervousness is because some people get information that is not true and they believe it. I spoke to a gentleman that was in his 80's. He is a FOX news watcher. He asked me why I was voting for Senator Obama. After giving him my reasons and giving him the nonpartisan groups that backed up what I was saying. He said he felt better towards Senator Obama, but he was still going to vote for Senator McCain. After speaking for over half an hour we ended the call. He said to me; "Well, good luck tomorrow , but I hope your candidate loses." I in turn said; "Good luck tomorrow and I hope your candidate loses." We both were laughing and were happy that we had talked. I am hoping people who vote today see through all the negative campaigning and half truths. I can't imagine, or I should say I don't want to imagine four years of our country being lead by anyone other than Senator Obama.

Phones

Debra — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 23:10:57 EST

I have been making phone calls. Lets keep pushing!! I know it is making a difference because I have spoken to several undecided voters and convinced them to vote for "Change" and to elect Senator Obama as our next President!

100 Calls to the Old Dominion

Dan Solovay — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 17:56:32 EST

I've made about 100 GOTV calls to Virginia. Very positive responses on the last 25: "I'm wearing my Obama tee-shirt right now", "This is a no brainer", "This is so important", and "I'm with you guys!" Very positive. Not feeling relaxed, but I am feeling encouraged.

So easy

Helen — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 14:54:43 EST

Making calls using Neighbor to Neighbor is so easy. I've made hundreds of calls at phonebanking locations but this is so much easier. All the information you need is right there on the screen and it is easier to record results than wiriting them.

I hope more people learn about this and how to use it to GOTV for Barack!

GOTV Calling: What it means

Christopher Hass — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 10:30:09 EST

Yesterday, on the first full day of Get Out The Vote, we set an all-time record for phone calls made using our online voter contact tool: 431,645 calls in a single day. While volunteers in key battleground states canvassed neighborhoods by foot and crowded into offices to phonebank, grassroots phonebankers from across the country pitched in by making phone calls from home and talking to voters, one at a time.

Our goal for online calling today: reach one million phone calls for the weekend by 9:00 PM Pacific tonight.

We've broken countless records over the course of this campaign, but we've rarely had the time to reflect on just what that means. What it means is that something is happening that's never happened before, ever. What it means is that this election, this campaign for the presidency, this moment, is different from all the others.

Whether you've been helping out for months or have never made a call before, you can get started in minutes making calls to any of the battleground states. Once you log in, we'll provide you with a detailed script and a targeted list of voters to call. You'll be talking to supporters and likely supporters, providing them with information on when, where and how to vote, as well as reminding them of what's at stake in this election and the importance of their vote.

Call time starts at 10:00 AM local time today, which means you can get started calling Virginia, Florida, Ohio, North Carolina, Indiana and New Hampshire right now:

For everyone out there making phone calls to voters in a battleground state, let us know what you're hearing on the phones today, how it's going, and any tips you may have for fellow callers...

Three Voters In Virginia

Joyce — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:54:27 EDT

Tonight I thought I would call a few voters in Virginia. I always try to call during a time when I wouldn't mind if someone called me. At 7:00PM I placed my first call and she was an Obama supporter! My second call was to a woman who also said she would vote for Barack Obama. I even mentioned to her that my first two calls in Virginia this evening were to Obama supporters and we both thought that was great! The third call, again to a woman, also was an Obama supporter! In all of my calls I don't think I have ever had a string of calls like that. What was interesting about these three was that they all volunteered the information that they would vote for Obama after they heard that I was a volunteer for his campaign. I came to the fourth name and it was a man who wasn't home, so my winning streak ended.

I thought those of you who are calling in battleground states might enjoy this little story. It's often difficult to get three people in a row home! I have a good feeling about Virginia!!

Tip for encouraging early voters

Diana from Middletown, CT — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 21:01:02 EDT

I've been calling Ohio to encourage early voters and sometimes am told "I'd rather wait for the real election day." Here's my response. First, I remind voters that on election day they could get the stomach flu, their car could break down, etc. and that every vote will count and they don't want to miss out on voting. Then I say "The deadline for taxes is April 15th, but that's not the best day to actually do your taxes. It's better to do them in advance. It's the same thing with voting. The deadline for voting is election day, November 4th, but it's much better to vote in advance and make sure there are no problems."

Diana

Curiouser and curiouser

Joe — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 20:09:13 EDT

Don't believe the polls that show Sen. Obama in the lead. Why? Because people will get complacent and think they don't have to work or, worse yet, vote. So shun the polls and assume Sen. Obama is waaaaay behind. And then work. And make calls. And ask people to donate &/or volunteer.

Know why? Because the McCain campaign is fousing on scare tactics at a time when unemployment keeps growing. It doesn't want people to think, it wants people to react to being afraid.

McCain and his veep wannabe keep saying things like, "We're going to do things for Joe the Plumber, cut taxes for Joe the Plumber, hunt down terrorists for Joe the Plumber, bha-blah-blah."

Apparently Joe the Plumber will have a cabinet post should McCain be elected (perish THAT thought). What they're not saying is that Joe Plumber -- and Joe the professor (moi) -- will really be better off with Sen. Obama in the White House. Thank God THAT Joe and his ilk are just 12 days away from irrelevancy.

Did I do enough?

charlene davis — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:43:21 EDT

We are only two weeks out until the final vote. I am wishing that I could have done more. Having lupus and being a single mom and no car has made it difficult. I have phone banked from home and headquarters, worked on events, talked to anyone who would listen as to why I believe so much in this team, registered new voters, wore my buttons everywhere, proudly kept my sign in my front apt window and made small donations when I could. Yet, I feel like I should have done more. I plan on devoting the last two weeks to making calls from home to help to push us to the finish line. I also have read and watched everything I could get my hands on to be an informed voter and be educated to speak to undecided voters. I have also had to listen sometimes to people who remain so close minded about Obama and will never "get it". I am sad for them because they are the ones who are missing out. I know that once we have " President Obama", they will realize that he wants the best for each and every one of us.

I also want to wish Barack's grandmother good thoughts and prayers. I truly pray she will get to see him get elected and make history. I so respect him for taking time out for her. It just makes me love him even more .

In Victory we go,

Charlene

Do Not Call List and does it apply to political calls?

Ms. Mary — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 18:22:51 EDT

I am calling people to encourage them to vote early in NC and they are complaining about I am on the DNC list and do not want any future calls.. I tried to explain that "I am not trying to sell you anything " and the DNC regulations does not apply. Help! what are the restrcitions of calling someone who is on the DNC list. I certain do not have the list or any idea about whom is on the list. Anyone?

Progress!!!

Joyce — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:44:33 EDT

Yesterday, while stuffing envelopes in our local Democratic office, I spoke with a woman who had very good news. Her brother, a long time Republican with whom she rarely talked politics, had told her "I won't be unhappy if Obama wins." That is progress!

Today I visited my doctor, with whom I have talked about politics in the past. His father became my doctor in 1972 and the son took over the practice about 15 years ago. I know them well and know they have been Republicans. Although his ethics prevented him from telling me directly, I did learn that he is voting for Obama!! The best I had expected from him was that he would say he wasn't voting. More progress!

I am now wearing my Obama button nearly all the time. I think it's important for us to have the conversations which come about as a result of others noticing it. Now it's up to all of us to get out the vote!

Yes We Can!

Is it too early to be hopeful?

Claudine Clarke — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:05:33 EDT

Dear Fellow Campaigners,

Dare I feel hope?

I talked to a woman in Indiana recently. She’s voting for Obama and she told me why. She said eight years ago she had two homes and two cars. She lost her job three years ago. She can’t find work and had to give up her vacation home and one of her cars. Her husband needs the other car to get to his job so that leaves her without transportation. We talked about how so many people in Indiana and in this country are experiencing hard times. We both acknowledged that something needed to be done.

I talked to a man in Indiana a few days ago and he told me he was undecided. We talked for a few minutes and he mentioned that times are tough for people. I don’t know if I swayed him, but he thanked me for calling. I thought that was a good sign.

I dare say I am starting to feel hopeful that Obama can win this race. These last eight years under Bush had me second-guessing my fellow Americans’ sanity. I’d been thinking about leaving this country for good. Now, I am starting to feel hopeful that people in this country are capable of understanding the complex issues we’re facing. I’m not ready to call the race or stop campaigning for Obama, but I am feeling just a bit more hopeful than before. I think other people are too.

Time to get Calling again!

Henry Krempel — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 22:43:24 EDT

Less than 60 days left!

Time to get on the phones again. If you live in a swing state, try the new Neighbor-to-Neighbor tool

Otherwise pick a state on http://my.barackobama.com/call

If it's late in the East, call NM !

It's Up to Us!!!

Joyce — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:24:31 EDT

This is now the time when I believe we all need to take responsibility for doing everything we can to elect Barack Obama President and Joe Biden Vice President! We will make the difference! There are a number of things we can do:

Call other voters - the home phone bank is working again!

Work to register more voters - check out the Action Center and register in your state

Canvass and talk to voters.

Keep up to date on Obama/Biden positions so we can talk with knowledge.

Wear our Obama gear. A simple button might result in a helpful conversation.

We must recognize that there are many people out there who have still not made up there minds. Many Republicans are turning towards Obama and it will help them if they see the strength of the Obama support. Last week I heard a bit on the radio about the effectiveness of volunteer callers and volunteer canvassers. I wish I could give a link, but I do know that from 5-12% of the people suggested that volunteers made a difference in their choice for President (paid callers had no effect, so emphasize you are a volunteer!). That is important and we must follow through. I am a grandmother who has never before worked for a Presidential candidate. I had never called strangers in support of any political candidate, but since January I have called over 1300! I knocked on over 100 doors in our area. I have learned about blogging and have "blogged for Obama" regularly on several national blogs. This is an important election. It will decide whether we are led by a President of character, integrity, honesty, intelligence, humility and vision or not

Contact All Voters in the USA! That must be our goal! Some think we should not worry about some states (not enough electoral votes etc.). I disagree. If Florida had not been as close in popular vote as it was, the Republicans would not have been able to play their games and Al Gore would have been President. We should work to win every state!!!

Yes We Can!

please, please get involved

Larry — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:33:14 EDT

Hello Obama supporters.

I am a volunteer canvas captain for the Obama campaign for change, Cleveland area, Johnston County North Carolina. we have a lot of work to do and only one shot at this, so I'm asking? Everyone over the next few weeks to please, please get involved, make phone calls, knock on doors, register new voters, etc. Let's show the Republican what community organizer mean.

My blog http://www.PoliceyourPolice.com

Help stop police corruption

Making calls: Iowa

Jeanine — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 18:44:27 EDT

At one point, I thought our primary system was pretty crazy, giving all that power to Iowa and New Hampshire. However, after making calls to Iowa, I was won over by how thoughtful they were, and how polite to callers! This good feeling has been reinforced by tonight's 25 calls to Iowa.

The results weren't so good, but maybe not so bad:

Not home: 3

Wrong /disconnected number: 1

Left message: 11

Obama: 3

McCain: 3

Undecided (and willing to talk): 4

NO not interested, hang-ups, refused!

Reports from anyone else?

Making calls

Jeanine — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 11:11:16 EDT

I made calls today to Ohio. The tally was

4 busy/not home,

5 wrong number (mainly disconnected. These were all young people <25 years)

10 left message

7 not interested

3 for Barack

1 undecided. This woman wants a Christian and I did get to say that BO was one.

Should I be discouraged?

How are other folks doing?

Making the right call

Paul Schreiber — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 04:47:02 EDT

Here at SF Station in San Francisco, we were phone banking -- calling independent voters in New Mexico to identify supporters. Like most call sheets, you hit many a wrong number, a few hangups and even the odd fax machine.

But one of the 208 calls I made today was pretty special.

I spent a minute or so talking to this man, trying to find out what his thoughts were. We had a hard time understanding each other. Finally, he explains he doesn't speak English very well. "What language do you speak?" I asked.

"Farsi."

I thanked him and said goodbye.

"Hey," I said to the room, jokingly. "Does anyone here speak Farsi?"

Turns out someone did. Rose, in addition to being our terrific data coordinator, learned Farsi from her Mom.

I can only imagine the thoughts running through this man's head when one minute later he's being chatted up about Barack Obama in his native tongue.

Initially, he was hesitant. Didn't really like politics much. But Rose explained that if he didn't like war, and didn't want one in Iran, then he needs to support Barack Obama.

Damn if we didn't circle that "1."

Thanks, Rose! You are amazing.

Phone Banking Success!

Wade Sanders — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 03:13:59 EDT

This is a copy of an e-mail sent to the group Sunnyvale for Obama on July 21, 2008.

Hello Sunnyvale for Obama!

News flash: the phone-banking team had a very successful phone-banking party yesterday!

Preeti graciously opened her home to the movement for change, and four of us joined her in calling New Mexico, which is a swing state. We reached out to registered Decline to State (independent) voters there to spread the message of the Obama campaign and hopefully recruit volunteers. Before we started, we set a goal of recruiting five, and we met that goal! In effect, we doubled our impact on the campaign as volunteers!

The only problem we had was that I talk too loud, so I had to be sequestered on the porch. :-)

Thank you, Preeti, for so kindly hosting, and thank you Thomas, Cristiana, and Fred for joining us to make calls!

If anyone would like to be involved in phone banking in any way—whether hosting a party, going to a party, calling from home, or calling from the PA office—and you’re not already on the phone-banking team, just let me know and I’ll provide the info you need.

GO OBAMA ‘08!

Wade

Problems calling Nevada--needs attention

Stephanie — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 22:40:32 EDT

I just wanted to let people know there are problems with the on-line calling tool in Nevada. I was suspicious initially because the area codes kept changing as I went down the list, and at least half the numbers were disconnected. When I did get someone, I was told that it was after 10p, though it should have been about 7:30p, because I was actually calling Virginia. It would be helpful if someone posted a notice on the national call team blog when the problem has been fixed. Thanks.

Where we go from here in Kentucky

J. Lowe — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 02:01:16 EDT

Hello Blog Buddies it has been a while. The road has been long and filled with golden bricks of knowledge and experience, some of which I may share soon but not now. The totality of this year's volunteer and staff member experience it still out of the reach of words, so profound and close to the heart that it has not passed through the filter of my mind.

Ms. Lovely Linda Dungey did bring some words out of my heart today. Here is a copy of the reply I gave her, along with prayers and wishes of good will:

Vote 4 Independence-Voter Registration Drive Blowout

Jennifer Gordon (GOTV Lead) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 07:55:23 EDT

Good Morning My Dear Obama Supporters! I hope your holiday weekend has been enjoyable with family, friends, & community. As we are approaching the end of our Vote 4 Independence Voter Registration drives today, there's still an opportunity for you to get involved in a community service activity or phone banking session. We will have organizers @ both Kroger Locations (N. Hairston/Stone Mountain & N. Decatur/Decatur) so if you are interested in registering voters today please refer to the following schedule: Thanks again for all you do to put Barack Obama in Office on Nov. 4th!!

Kroger N. Hairston-10am to 4pm Today, Sunday, July 6th

Kroger N. Decatur-11am to 6pm Today, Sunday, July 6th

Phone Banking available from your home or cellphone Primetime 5pm-10pm
Call for a list of registered voters in your area to recruit for volunteers, or go to the phone banking on MyBO.com. Thanks so much, Jennifer C. Gordon 404.663.9404

Lake County Voter Registration Drive for General Election

Mich95422 — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 00:54:37 EDT

Lake County Democratic Party is in the Process of getting Voter Registration Drive going full swing starting July 4th. We need volunteers for phone banks, house parties, fund raising parties, GOTV,
and voter registration. Please contact Wanda Harris from Lake County Democrats at 707 987-9027 for further information. I will be updating my Blog frequently with as needed changes;so stay in touch with me.

Solid As Barack-Voting 4 Independence Registration & Phone Banking

Jennifer Gordon (GOTV Lead) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 23:25:22 EDT

Happy 4th of July Obama Family!! What a great way to celebrate our Nation's Independence by gathering together around the grill and talking about our collective future. Our "Solid As Barack" Fellows Team in Tucker, GA is TRULY FIRED UP & READY TO GO to the next Voter Registration (@ Kroger-N.Hairston/Memorial Drive & N. Decatur Rd.); Ready to place the next Phone Banking Team (Friday-July 4th ALL DAY), and Canvass our Communities (ALL THE WAY TO NOV. 4TH); BUT WE NEED YOU!!!!!!! You must register so that we can include in this HIStoric venture called CHANGE. Click on this link and we will C U There!! Thanks for your support METRO ATLANTA!!! Call Jennifer Gordon for questions @ 404-663-9404. http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/44m7m http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/44xlg#rsvp

Transitioning to local action

Roy from NH — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 21:15:31 EDT

Over the past few months, I've made thousands of phone calls and had hundreds of conversations. Now last weekend, I volunteered all day at the Unity, NH event on Friday, and then hosted my Unite for Change house party Saturday. I'll now be continuing to work locally in my town with the group we have begun. My question is: what tasks are there going to be for the National Call Team? Our calling made tremendous sense as the primaries rolled from state to state, but now we've all got our local work to do, and I'm not sure what there is to do on a national level, or how much time I'll have free to be a part of it.

1st Blog Ever.....

Patty — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:40:36 EDT

This is the 1st time I have written a blog but then again when I stop to think this campaign has afforded me many 1st's.....

I am very commited in my efforts to see that Barack Obama is elcted as our next President of the United States and will do whatever I can to ensure that it happens.

I joined the Obama community several months ago and it has been an amazing experience for me and one I will always remember.

I am shy by nature although those of you who have gotten to know me will probably say otherwise... I joined the National Call Team in January and began my journey of reaching out to voters across the country. I have met many incredible people along the path of this jouney who are fellow supporters as well as those I educated about our canidate and met many working in the campaign. Over the course of 6 months I spoke with thousands upon thousands of voters and many of whom I am still in touch with who have inspired me to keep going.

I joined several groups in the community and one of which is diversityforobama. I have met some truly special people in that group and have learned a great deal from them.

My message to everyone is to please get involved in the campaign and take an active role. All supporters need to come together and be united in their efforts to doing what is needed to get Barack elected as our next POTUS. We need to welcome all new supporters and treat them with respect. We need to take the high road in this campaign and remain focused even in the face of adversity. It is a long road from now until election day and we will hit bumps along the way. We must remain true to our goals and not stoop to the level of the GOP and resort with smear tactics.Barack Obama is all about sticking to the issues and campaigning on the issues and not attacking individuals or their families so we need to follow him in this sense and leave the drama out of the campaign.

There are many around the country who are just as enthuised as I am and I have been inspired by them and hope that we all can inspire one another to join together and do what has to be done and know that if we do that we will truly know that YES WE CAN !!!!!!!!

Veterans For Obama

David Hussein Hopkins Willingboro,NJ — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 22:26:26 EDT

I am the county Co- Chair for Burlington for Obama. Obama is by any standard, the most talented, and qualified candidate from either side of the political divide. As a Veteran I support Barack's position to end the war . I also believe that Barack Obama will bring credibility to America's role in the world and help restore our moral leadership.I also believe that Barack Obama will be able to turn a new page in American politics, so that Democrats, Independents and Republicans alike will be able to look to his leadership to unite us to find common ground.We have organized several hundred Phone Bankers reaching out and making calls to voters from coast to coast. It is because of their work and steadfast determination that we have now won an absolute majority of all the delegates chosen by the people in this Democratic primary process.The tremendous effort that these volunteers made and their energy were key in this race. It cannot be said enough how much I enjoyed working with all of them.

How are you involved in the campaign?

Gloria is Solid with Barack! — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:21:30 EDT

From many there is one...that is me. I have phone banked for Barack, purchased items from his website to wear and share, contributed to the campaign financially, spiritually I pray for Barack and his family with others, I spread the word of change and Obama's message daily where ever I go. Even my kids are Obama babies. I've driven to York, PA to help campaign, registered voters, voted myself, called other undecided voters, and attend Obama rallies to keep up the momentum. I blog, write letters or email, call national news programs to support or repute biased views. I purchase magazines and news articles to chronicle/scrapbook this election. I wear a button or t-shirt daily to show my continued support. I will visit the White House and attend the Inauguration when Barack is elected as the first African-American President of the United States! And I attend every event I possibly can to help with his election. What are you doing?

LESS THAN 20 WEEKS FOR 2008 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION!

Kapil — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 17:45:24 EDT

Less than 20 weeks remain for the 2008 Presidential Elections! Every one of these weeks there should be SPECIAL MEETINGS, NEWS CONFERENCES, IN 20 DIFFERENT STATES OF PRIME IMPORTANCE by Mr Obama.

Concentrating on WEAK or so called "RED STATES" could be a good ides. However, we cannot NEGLECT/IGNORE the BLUE or POSITIVE STATES! Just my thoughts,...

A Constituent Reaches Out

Dee Pollack — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:46:33 EDT

All: As a resident of Illinois, I had the great good fortune to meet Senator Obama in a small venue at a Town Hall meeting. I'd seen his keynote speech and was impressed; I also followed his career as a state senator, and knew he would be a force to reckon with someday. I met him before he announced his candidacy, so it was an intimate meeting. I was extremely impressed by the breadth of his knowledge and his common sense. Although by demographics I should have been a supporter of Senator Clinton's, I knew that only Senator Obama had the unique background and personal qualities to help this nation heal, to rise above the state of affairs that we find ourselves in today. As a professor of Constitutional Law, I have no doubt that he sees that great document as something more than an inconvenient "piece of paper," unlike the current occupant of the White House. Who could be more capable of repairing the abuses to our Constitution? I post on two different political boards: The lies and rumors about Senator Obama have disgusted me, and I now see no alternative beyond an Obama presidency to make blatant racism and hatred unacceptable again, to restore dignity and ethics to our government and to restore the high regard in the world which we once enjoyed. The vote you cast in November may be the most important vote you ever cast. This may be the most important campaign in your life-time. I ask you to join with me in making history...world history. It took immense courage for Mr. Obama to speak against the invasion of iraq, when it was a very unpopular and politically dangerous thing to do. Yet Senator Obama had that courage: Surely we have the courage to support him.

Unite For Change (Tucker, GA)

Jennifer Gordon (GOTV Lead) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 20:25:41 EDT

I have never been more proud than to participate in this historical time. Volunteering for this campaign has been eye-opening, discouraging as it pertains to our current state of the Union but most of all inspiring. I was attending Clark-Atlanta University when I met Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu soon after Nelson Mandela had been released from prison in South Africa. He spoke with the same hope that I hear from Barack Obama today and I will continue to donate my efforts for the betterment of my community, my state (GA), and my country. If Ashford & Simpson will let me re-record their hit "Solid As Barack" I sure would donate a portion of those sales to the campaign!! Much love, Jenn G in Tucker, GA.

Unite for Change Sat 6/28

Whitney from Salisbury, NC — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 13:03:27 EDT

Let's work for a visible Change in Salisbury and Rowan County. Come to EastSquareArtWorks on Innes St., Salisbury this Sat 6/28 at 5 pm. If you want to come after the HOG parade, that works too. There are more O supporters out there than we think, and now is the time to come together, stand together, work together for the change grassroots can bring. I look forward to meeting all of you! Now is the time!

VOLUNTEERS for Barack!!!

Nancy Carole Lee — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 05:22:56 EDT

The Southfield for Obama group is extending an invitation for you to join us and become a part of Senator Obama's movement towards positive change. When ? SATURDAY JUNE 21st.

WHEN: Saturday, Jun 21, 2008 - 11:00 A.M.

Where: The Plaza Hotel in Southfield MI - 1st level conference room

What: Support for Senator Obama's campaign.

How: Think of an area in which you would like to lend your support (i.e. data processing,

telephone banking, voter registration, creating flyers on the computer, volunteer recruitment, etc.)

Yes we Can!!! Yes we Will!!! Sign, Seal, and Deliver a Victory in November!

Registered Voters Today

Dr Jeanne — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:08:45 EDT

After checking in at the Obama headquarters on Elizabeth St I headed out with another volunteer - a young college student with long blonde hair, a great iridescent purple bag, and kind of a dreamy demeanor. Thirty years or so ago she might have been called a hippie. That's how she says that her mother, a conservative lawyer who "never sees eye to eye" with her daugher, views her. But it was Mom who encouraged her to have the experience of registering voters. Kind of speaks to the Unite for Change theme. She wants her daughter to believe in something. One thing that she clearly believes in is helping others. She shared her dream of becoming a biological psychologist specializing in researching and treating substance abuse disorders. I think I would enjoy having her as a student.

We were dispatched to the nearby transit center to meet commuters. My fellow volunteer grew up in Charlotte and has seen the population triple in her lifetime. She shared memories about what the city used to look like as we passed landmarks. Ninety percent or so of the people that we met today were people of color - mostly African American. Most were already registered to vote, and they thanked and encouraged us for volunteering. I also got a couple of enthusiastic marriage proposals and a pledge to vote for me as a write in-candidate. I spoke to a few young people who had lots of questions about the voting process. Some were just 17 but would be 18 by November. Some were tentative. The role of voter did not appear to seem real to them yet. Some of the teens that I approached were too young yet. "Get ready" I told them "your turn is coming and we need you". They nodded respectfully, their posture straightening up a bit in response to an adult acknowledging their importance.

Some people's reactions were less positive. A small number of White people (most were great)refused to make eye contact with me. Some did not trouble to mask their indignance that I would even speak to them, as if I were breaking some unwritten code. This is my interpretation. I'd appreciate other's thoughts. I noticed that a few Black women furtively shook their heads with an almost wistful or fearful expression when I invited them to register. Several Black men said "I can't vote - I have a felony record". Besides being surprised by the concentration of felons in this one location, I had strong feelings about the lost potential and lost opportunities that each of these men represented. Black men are disproportionately sentenced for the same crimes commited by White men (don't take my word for it, check out http://www.sentencingproject.org/). This means that there were probably White men at this bus station who are eligible to vote, despite being arrested for similar crimes. The issue of crime is a very complicated one. I don't want to idealize the situation or excuse crime. Charlotte's crime rate is higher per capita than that of NYC or LA. It is a very real problem. Still, I see human beings, I see potential, and I see disparity. My young partner shared that someone close to her had two pending felony counts against him. Raised in a family with substance abusers, he became drug dependent at a young age. He was arrested at his dealer's house during a raid. He is clean now and doing his best to turn his life around. However he is only 19 years of age, and these felonies could mean a very bleak future for him.

One man that I approached, a Black man of about 40 or so, stands out in my mind. When I asked if he was registered, he scowled and shook his head, exhaling cigarette smoke. Eyeing my Obama t-shirt, he said "Black people are f**ked up - they ain't never gonna get nowhere". Being Black myself, I asked him "Do I look f**ked up to you?" He softened and said "No, excuse my language, ma'am, but 70% of Black people are f**ked up. You got too many kids in gangs (I agree, I told him)...You got people on drugs and killing each other (I agreed)... When I was coming up grandmothers was like 65, now they are 38. That ain't right (I agreed)". "I am part of that other 30%" I told him (I vehemently disagree with his 70% statistic, but now didn't seem the time to argue) " I am voting so I can change some of those things. Which percentage are you a part of?" A long pause of silence. It was sinking in. I could see it. Baby steps. Baby steps toward change. " I am a felon - I can't vote" he said. "Who do you know who can vote?" I asked him. "Do you have a lady, a family member, or a friend who can vote?" "Most people I know can vote" he said. "Start there. Talk to them". I shook his hand and walked away. And I prayed for Hope.

Awareness is a form of Change

Dr Jeanne — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 23:18:11 EDT

This wasn't my greatest Obama day. No feel good stories about baby steps to change the world. I hid out in my office today, and the copier room. I hardly interacted with anyone except for customer service phone reps on my various communications accounts. Mostly I was on hold and responding to press ones (you know "for account information, press one, to purchase additional services, press two"...). I worked my butt off today and I got home two hours late, dead tired, and stinky. I ate standing up in the kitchen (thank God for a partner who can cook), took a shower and got into bed. Something told me to get up and check if I had any new MyBo friends. Hi Friends! Thanks for being my friends!

Today my Change goals were to 1) help with new voter registration at our local headquarters and 2) work on reducing my environmental footprint, in honor of Gore's endorsement of President Obama (as far as I am concerned, he is already my president, and he will continue to be regardless of what happens in November). Well, I had so many issues to deal with at work today that I couldn't make it Uptown to headquarters. I'll make up for it tomorrow. As far as my environmental activities, if anything I just became aware of more of my many excesses. But awareness in itself is Change. The stress of the day made it hard to focus on conservation. I let the shower run a bit before getting in. I left a window open all day, unaware that the air was on. I am not usually this bad. Today was an off day. For my flight to Chicago last week I purchased carbon offset points, and that felt good. When you consider all the crap that you have to pay for to fly these days, paying a few dollars for carbon offset is an amazing value.

Speaking of airlines - I am going to go off on a tangent for a minute here. (I recently discovered that I have what is currently understood by the scientific community as attention deficit disorder, but actually encompasses a form of right-brain genius, so my friends have gotten used to tangents. I'll try to label them so you can skip over them if you'd prefer). The business model that US commercial airlines are following at the moment is a metaphor for what we need less of in the United States. My fellow passengers and I had to stand by for the "preferred boarding" of the more privileged passengers in Diamond Class, Emerald Class, Ruby Class, Platinum Class, Platinum Gold Class.... NO! I am not joking! We need a standard of living that everyone enjoys, not just the privileged.

So, back to the main subject, it was a rough day and I didn't achieve the Change goals that I intended, but I am aware of where I fell short, and I am determined to get back on track. Awareness is a form of Change.

Other President Obama thoughts for the day: I read about how much of the mainstream media is de-emphasizing the importance of President Obama's lead in the polls. They are also failing to mention some of the many awesome successes that he has made in terms of expanding and diversifying his base of supporters. Hats off to The Nation for bucking the trend and telling us the real deal. Check out http://news.yahoo.com/s/thenation/20080618/cm_thenation/45330857. Some take away points - while Obama may not yet have won over all of Hilary's supporters, they sure as hell aren't flocking to McCain. President Obama is leading in several demographics that haven't been highlighted and gaining ground every day! But don't take my word for it. Read the article. I already warned you - attention deficit disorder.

My feel good moment for the day was reading an article about First Lady Michelle Obama and checking out some beautiful photos (except for her dated college graduation photo - hey, we all have those old photos that someone could blackmail us with) of her. She is so authentic, strong, and compassionate. She has inner as well as exterior beauty. Hard body, sharp mind, soft heart. That's what I aspire to and Michelle embodies. A first lady that truly represents this millennium. Don't change who you are Michelle! None of us can be everything to everybody. We need to develop the trust in each other not to be threatened by our diversities. My favorite quotes from the article:“I hate diversity workshops. Real change comes from having enough comfort to be really honest and say something very uncomfortable.” (commenting on her role as Vice President of Community Affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center, and the approach she takes to resolving conflicts between the many groups that she serves)(commenting on rumors that she is racist) “You know, if someone sat in a room with me for five minutes after hearing these rumors, they’d go ‘huh?’ ” she says. “They’d realize it doesn’t make sense.” Here's the article link:http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/18/us/politics/18michelle.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&th&emc=thOk, one more tangent. Michelle is getting flak because of remarks that she make in her college senior thesis from 20 plus years ago. Can you imagine being in that position? God help me if anyone reads anything I wrote as a college student. As a college professor who has graded thousands of pages of student writing, I can tell you that her thesis is exceptionally well written and presents balanced and well argued observations of her experiences as a racial minority at Princeton. It represents criticism in the interest of positive change. Sounds like early signs of leadership to me!

Good night ya'll. My second wind just blew away.

GRASSROOTS IN EVERY STATE

Marvella — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 17:15:26 EDT

Even if we are able to win without Ohio or Florida, we still need to do grassroots campaigning like never before in Ohio and Florida. I wonder if Florida has any Obama Organizer Fellows, etc. to do this work to do the Unite For Change House Meetings there as well. I hope to hear from my fellow Obama Supporters in response to this

Part 5 of 25 Steps to Success for Mr Obama!

Kapil — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:52:13 EDT

Step 5. 'DIFFERENT': Being different is to be not part of the 'crowd'!

For example 'Crowd' can be the 'Washington DC crowd'!

Part 4 of 25 Steps to Success!

Kapil — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:49:09 EDT

Step 4. CONCENTRATING ON WEAKNESSES: One's strength should of 'chain' should not be determined by HOW STRONG THE STRONGEST 'LINK' OF THE CHAIN IS, BUT BY HOW WEAK IS THE WEAKEST 'LINK' IN THE CHAIN!

If we correct or get rid of our weaknesses what can be better than that! IN FACT EVERY HUMAN BEING HAS WEAKNESSES!

For EXAMPLE: CONCENTRATING ON THE SO CALLED 'RED STATES'! Therefore Concentrating on weak states, weak groups like Latinos/White voters/Jewish community etc

Part 3 of 25 Simple Steps to Success

Kapil — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:37:40 EDT

Step 3. HONESTY: honesty is the best policy. If and ever anything PROPS UP (which is very likely) and IF IT'S TRUE then IT SHOULD BE ADMITTED NOT CHALLENGED, Public WANTS HONESTY!

Public/People FINALLY WANT TO HAVE A PRESIDENT WHO THEY CAN BELIEVE IN, WHO THEY CAN TRUST and WHO THEY KNOW WILL IS & WILL ALWAYS BE HONEST, no matter what!

Part 2 of 25 steps to SUCCESS!

Kapil — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:31:26 EDT

Step 2. CONSISTENCY: never to waiver, never go astray, THE TARGET IS ALWAYS IN FOCUS!

No matter what PRESSURE or SITUATION may be there should always be consistency!

Obama Cruise Fundraiser 08

Cruise4Obama — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:15:30 EDT

Attention! Attention! Attention!

Cruise NYC for Obama! You are cordially invited to help us in our fundraiser cruise. We will take the Hudson River onboard the Star of Palm Beach and you can join us for this grand event in honor of our next President Barack Obama.

4-Hours of butler served food and drinks, dancing and being entertained, keynote speakers, mingling with other like minded democrats and having the chance to help raise the funds needed for the general election.

We are so excited to be able to sponsor this event and we want all Obama Supporters to join us!

This blog is for the intention of awareness and to voice your opinions, so I am voicing mine. I love the fact that soon we will have "CHANGE". We will be united as this nation has never seen before and we will keep supporting a Man who is magnificent in every sense of the word.

I will be hosting and sponsoring as many events as possible to raise $10,000 for the general election and with your support, ideas and participation we can make this happen.

What events are you sponsoring or hosting that we may participate in? Tell us and let's all help spread the word.

UNITY IS FREE!

If you want to learn more about the cruise and the pre-cruise voter registration just visit our website or give us a call (888) 653-1164

Peace, Love and Change!

Margaret Benjamin- Host

The Original Obama Momma

Michael Smith- Host

Foreclosure Investor - Company Sponsor

Dale & Iris- Company Sponsor

Affairs Afloat- Company Sponsor

Local Obama Supporter Say's, "Good-Bye"

Lydia from Saint Louis, MO — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:46:49 EDT

Marilyn Andrews, University City resident, and dedicated Barack Obama supporter recently passed away. Marilyn believed in Barack's message of hope and change, and was an active grass roots organizer and supporter. Marilyn reached out to everyone, regardless of race, or religion, to help spread Barack's message, and to increase community awareness for this campaign.

Marilyn's spirit will live on in the spirit of this campaign, perhaps you knew her, or knocked on doors with her, or even sat next to her at a meeting or rally. If you knew Marilyn, you knew that she was sincere about Barack becomming the next President of our country. I'm sure she's smiling now, knowing he's on his way, and her efforts have not gone un-noticed. My prayer's go out to the Andrews family, and friends during this time of despair.

"Yes We Can", Marilyn, and thanks so much for your dedication to the Obama campaign, you helped Barack make History!

Join the current national call campaign

Roy from NH — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 20:42:08 EDT

I've finally gotten some phone numbers in my time zone, so I've been able to connect with calls to supporters, asking them to host local events for Sen. Obama. These are great calls to make! About two of every three people I talk to say YES to hosting an event, and half of those who have to say NO then say YES to making phone calls. With that kind of a response rate, what an impact we can have with these phone calls!

Every conversation is an opportunity!

Gail Fehrenbach — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:55:47 EDT

I'm sure I'm not alone in using virtually EVERY conversation as an opportunity to somehow include the importance of this presidential election. Whenever I hear any grumbling about almost ANYTHING, I ask folks to remember that when it comes time to vote, and to remember that unless we want more of the same, the choice is easy. The number of people who are really interested is astounding, and we have great conversations. Sales people, whether on the phone or in person, service people and people who I serve alike; no one is exempt from hearing from one who is so enthusiastic she's about to pop!

I genuinely respect the feelings of Hillary's supporters and offer understanding and encouragement that the issues that are important to her will be addressed only by Barack Obama. Ladies, we can do this; yes we can.

I am convinced that we are privileged with seeing the Law of Attraction at work here, and that we will see this movement swell across the land. The latest polls reflect that this is true, and with the deep commitment that we have to seeing Barack's inaugeration become a reality, this will be the most exciting election of a lifetime.

Barack has set the example and all we have to do is follow it; we've all grown because of this experience and now we are going to be able to witness having our country led by one who cares enough to give himself to solving our economic issues, bringing our troops home and bringing people together around the world. What timing!

One more Obamacan who is fired up and ready to go!

Gail

great specific tips for making gotv calls

Stephanie — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:31:27 EDT

I just wanted to share a link I discovered from the National Latinos for Obama newsletter that I thought deserved wider distribution. It was written by someone who was not a big Obama supporter but is now interested in getting him elected over McCain. It gives very helpful suggestions on how to respond to specific criticisms about Obama. I think one of it's greatest strengths is that it puts you in the place of the Hillary, Edwards, etc supporter and has you think about it from their point of view. It gives examples of both effective and ineffective responses. It's a little long but I am really glad I took the time to read it!

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/6/9/204346/8388/356/515265

warning--re: calls to supporters about voter's registration drive

Stephanie — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:18:15 EDT

When I was getting started on making calls to supporters a couple of days ago I thought I should check out the vote for change home page: http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/vfchome. I wanted to be sure I knew how it was set up in case I got any questions. So, I looked up Madison where I knew there was an active drive with multiple groups. I was quite surprised to see no events listed. I realized that there must be a lack of coordination between on-line and locally organized events. There is one listed for Madison now (I made a call to the field office), but I know that all the events are still not there. So, two things:

-When making calls be sure not to just give out the website but to suggest that they contact their field office, or perhaps county clerks office to see if an active drive exists in their area. (In WI you have to be deputized by the county clerk.) Please let me know if anyone has other ideas on this. I happily was calling Madison so was able to give out specific info. I think the site is set up to have people calling locally but I did get some numbers from the north part of the state.

-If you are involved with an event, be sure to post it on the website so that we can remedy this problem. You can of course also encourage those you're calling to post an event if they find one that hasn't been listed.

I also think it would be helpful if the home page didn't just list specific events, but gave contact information for local organizers so people would know where they are needed most. I think people are more apt to follow though if they talk to an actual person than just find out about an event. Finally, I would like to see a link for the vote for change home page on the action center page. Please let me know if any of this is wrong or if I've been missing something.

Hope this is helpful and please do make the calls. It's great to connect with other excited supporters. By getting others to volunteer you are multiplying your own impact.

Helping out in your pajamas

Mid America Mom — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 11:17:11 EDT

No matter who you are
or
where you are
you can Be the Change

You are thinking pajamas- WHAT!!????

Rewarding Phonebanking! Do it Now!

Bev4Obama — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 15:32:23 EDT

Hi Obama Family,

If you are feeling divorced from the lull in the campaign, don't be! Keep things going. The Barack Phonebank is up and running. We are calling volunteers and supporters who worked the Primaries to get them involved in the General Election. It's refreshing! So, while waiting for an office to open up....get those phones out and call!

Need Time Zones for Calling

Roy from NH — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 06:30:03 EDT

Our current calling campaign is to "thank fellow supporters for their involvement in this campaign for change and ask them to participate in Vote for Change to register new voters. " However, there seems to be a time zone glitch. The call page says "This campaign is available between 11:00AM and 8:00PM CDT only." and this seems to be true, as it wouldn't let me call after 9 PM Eastern Time. However, the call list I had was to Oregon, where it's three hours earlier.

There are several ways to handle this, but I would suggest letting us pick which time zone, or which state we want to call. Thanks.

Let's Get to Work!

Disabled Vet 2000 — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 16:08:08 EDT

Here are a few ideas for gearing up for the GE...

Is there any way to get lists of purged voters? We need to make sure those that were kicked off the lists get back on before registration deadlines. I was also wondering if we could get lists from groups that raise money for issues Obama has good ideas on (education, environment, gay issues, etc.) and try to switch some undecided and Hillary supporters. Hey - I'm an ex-republican, if I could change my mind anyone can - it can't hurt to at least plant some ideas in the minds of those that typically vote repub - they are alone in the voting booth, they may not admit it publicly, but we could pick up some votes there!

We need to start organizing now so we can get started in the coming weeks. We especially need to focus on battleground states and those that are typically repub, but could be close this year.

We also need to get the grassroots networks from early primary states back up and running. If we could each get a few volunteers we will be unstoppable. If a person participates in a campaign in any way they are much more likely to go to the polls. So get your friends and families out to some campaign events. You can also talk to community groups and appeal to those already active in community service organizations to get involved in the campaign. They already have valuable contacts and training that we need.

Thanks again to everyone who has made calls, written postcards, volunteered in Obama gear, and donated time and money to the campaign! It's time to take America back from these crazy extreme right wing nuts! Democrats, Moderate Republicans, and Independents need to stand together for better government and a brighter future!

Need inspiration

Jeanine — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 09:19:58 EDT

Has anyone made the phone calls to supporters requested in a posting by Plouffe?

Though I am in the habit of using my free weekend cell phone time for the cause, I need inspiration to make these calls.

Barrack Obama

GARY RHODES — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:10:31 EDT

IM 57 YEARS OLD I REMEMBER JOHN AND ROBERT KENNEDY AND MARTAIN LUTHER KING SPEECHES BARACK OBAMA IS RIGHT WITH THEM HES GOT THE GIFT.I HAD A CHANCE TO MEET HIM AT A DINNER IN INDIANAPOLIS HES JUST LIKE ONE OF US.IVE MADE OVER 6000 PHONE CALLS I PLAN ON MAKING MANY MORE IN THE MONTHS TO COME.

After the Celebration, the real battle begins

Kashmir — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 09:25:42 EDT

I don't know who will read this, which is why I am so hesitant to write, but I guess the idea is to organize my thoughts.

Tuesday was one of the happiest days of my life. I made all of my daughters watch so that they could say they remember the day an african-american was nominated for the highest position in the country, the day we changed the world, the day we took our moment. They seemed to understand.

Now, after reading the many blog posts on HillaryClinton.com, after hearing the opinions of an educationally, ethically, and philsophically diverse group (I went to a wedding), I can see that our next battle will be difficult. We need to stop celebrating, and start organizing. I am currently in Magnolia, Arkansas. I small college town with a large african-american population and blatant remnants of segregation, ie., all "black" high school, "black" neighborhoods, "white" neighborhoods, and "mixed" neighborhoods ( I gaped when I heard that word), and even a "selective" club which does not allow non-whites. Needless to say, the african-americans are weary of those who are "white". My husband and I are going to register as many voters here in Magnolia. I am then going to Hot Springs, where I work, and will spend as many evenings registering people to vote. The problem, I don't know how to do it. I guess I have to call the county clerk? I should call nearby churches to see if I could stand outside after church and register people that way. Does anyone out there have any advice? I am horrible at calling, so I plan to write post cards. I feel bad that I haven't been very useful during the primaries, but I'll step it up for the general. Maybe I'll get over my fear of talking to strangers and call some people. Good luck to all of you,

Marizza

Campaigning in November

Educateyoungpeople — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 21:51:26 EDT

We are moving into the next phase of this campaign. Here is what we are doing. 1. We are holding community meeting and house parties. 2. We are educating people on what needs to happen on election day and voter rights. 3. We are organizing canvassing and phonebanking campaigns to let people know about our candidates. Join South Carolina Women for Obama for details. Become a part of the movement..

We Won Now What?

Herschel.Corpus.Christi — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:25:24 EDT

For months we have awakened to a purpose, phoning. For those of us in rural areas connected to the campaign only by a computer, we had a focus: a state, a choice of states. Something was always there. This day is different.

Post-partum depression is a well researched and well know phenomenon. Is there such a thing as post-primary depression? We will soon find out.

In a more serious vein, we are a bunch of phoners:

Fired Up!! Ready To Go!!

We look forward to the next phase.

YES WE DO!!!

A Fight to Remember...

ChiTown Rover — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 21:40:13 EDT

A funny thing happened on the way to work today; I realized that I had forgotten my mail-in ballot for the June 3, 2008 California Statewide Primary. There was no call from a political action volunteer to have reminded me to get the darned thing turned in early, anyway. I found time this afternoon to fill it out, and drive it over to the Sacramento County Elections office. I also took my election/voter information pamphlet just in case I would need it. I had to re-register as a Democrat, because I had recently been taking Non Partisan ballots as a symbol of my opposition to the war. As I was doing this, my attention was drawn by a woman who was using her cell phone to get assistance from her daughter. When she was reminded by the guard that cell phones weren’t allowed, I offered her my voter information packet. I pointed out that since she had a democratic ballot that she would only have to select the democratic candidates for Congressional, and statewide offices. I also inquired if she would be supporting Barak Obama in the fall election, to which she immediately gave a solid “yes”. The final two initiatives, Prop 98 and Prop 99, which ban Eminent Domain, and the seizing of private property by governments needed a bit of explaining, so I happily did so. It was pure luck that I wasn’t cited for electioneering, and asked to leave the building…! After getting a good lunch, I stopped at the bank, and then headed home to wait for the returns from South Dakota, and Montana to come in on MSNBC. I did make some calls when I found an email message from David Plouffe reminding us that although it’s been a tough race, the battle was still being waged in these last two states. So, after an hour of phone banking, I can reflect on these thoughts. It’s a fine, and historic day to be an American. Barak Obama has brought people like me back into the democratic process like never before. Two years ago, I was moving away from this Party, and it’s record in Washington. Today, I’m one of the campaign’s most dedicated volunteers. I’ve called hundreds of voters in at least six states. I live, breathe, and talk politics almost 24/7 as I work to persuade individual voters to become a part of this movement for change. Enjoy this day, my friends. For any, and all political junkies, this day is pure heaven.

First time making phone calls, reflections

MatthewOfHamburg — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:19:56 EDT

Wow that was a funny 20 minutes calling South Dakotans. Out of 15 or 20 call, I had ups and downs. A starch and haughty: "We have voted already. Good-bye" for about a third of the calls. Okay, granted I was calling a little late in the day.

An elderly woman with a serious vision impairment I called was confined to assisted living and said: No, she can't vote. I was so incensed. I said: There must be a way. She said, Matt, when you get to be my age, you have to be patient, I will vote in November. Can't win 'em all. (So far), nobody had gotten her over to the Huron arena to vote.

Next call: I get a nice, soft-spoken gentleman on the line - Ed - who heard me stutter through the botched script questions "Have you voted today, did you vote for Barack Obama, do you realize how important it is?" He had just returned from the polls and he responded: I am a Democrat. And to answer your question, Matt: Yes. Yes. Yes. I really appreciate your calling.

It is worth getting a little impatience from some to make a call like that.

As a former "Boy's State Delegate" and resident of South Dakota, now an expatriate living in Europe, the feeling I have been getting here recently is that people are thrilled. They are definitely expecting a rough and tumble and protracted campaign. The sheer length of these campaigns is a real test of people's patience. But, Europeans are also impressed by the strong candidates Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama--more are asking about the presidential race now--early on--and not only in October/November. This is the first time I noticed that much talk about the presidential election that far ahead of time in my 29 years living abroad.

There is a sort of non-plussed joking posture taken by reports I've seen in German-speaking Europe because the Yes We Can chant seems so basically joyful, like the "I Think I Can" of the children's choo-choo train book. This fresh, grassroots zest takes seasoned and perhaps jaundiced reporters by surprise when they hear us supporters of Senator Obama whole-heartedly saying it. Somehow the ill-at-ease reporters are also part of the establishment of politics-media-how-things-are-done and aren't able to get their mind around this thrilling motif of the campaign. The basic ingredient. To right what is wrong about our country. Due process, multilateralism and not railroading decisions. Not colluding with Blair. Not deceiving millions on false pretenses at the expense of so many lives, first civilians, and our soldiers and theirs.

I personally am moved by the guts and resolve and poise our candidate, Senator Obama, is putting out there in his every appearance. With each gesture, each speech, each stance he takes on his platform or in his personal situation. This is a deep guy with strong convictions, soul, and infectious charisma. May he rise to the challenge of pulling supporters into the fold and setting off a sea-change. A watershed, a New (Washington) Deal, a carefully chosen reinvigoration of what is fair, what is decent what is doable and what is justified. And way, way, way overdue.

Al Gore may be wondering about the fairness of the Florida count at mid-term of the worst presidency in American history and the fates which saw Senator Obama thrust front and center for us to support. Hillary Clinton may be wondering how she can help advance the values which made her husband president. May her deliberations bear fruit for more than herself.

I think Barack Obama is the man of the hour, the person, yes I will say it, ordained to not blink and accept this calling. He is not oversimplifying, he knows issues are knotted and complex. He is thoughtfully crafting a measured approach to what he can achieve with our help and going for it.

He deserves our full support.

Go, Barack Obama, Go!

When we win.

Isaiah — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 07:39:21 EDT

When Barack Obama wins this nominee, we can not slow up. Everyone is doing a great job calling, emailing, and organizing, and i know that this race with Senator Clinton has been a long and tough one, but the one with Senator Mccain will be even more difficult. So keep donating, keep calling, keep organizing, and we will see Barack Obama in the White House, in November.

America is so beautiful ...

Christopher W. — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:42:27 EDT

I am trying to phone bank and this is the message I get: Sorry, no more phone numbers are available.
You have no phone numbers assigned to you. I want to phone bank and all of the numbers we have to call are either taken or already made. Praise God for the commitment of those who support the next President of the United States of America - Senator Barack Obama!Three months ago I was awash in phone numbers to call - what Glory this is!!!

You Owe It To Yourself

Herschel.Corpus.Christi — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 13:39:32 EDT

You Owe It To Yourself: To Phone

You have one last chance to get involved with making PHONE calls in the primaries.

Things are different today and tomorrow.

We don’t leave messages; therefore we don’t have to listen to long messages on answering machines.

We don’t have long scripts; therefore communication is easy.

You Owe It To Yourself: To Feel The Joy (Love might be to strong a word)

I am getting the BEST receptions from voters today.

You Owe It To Yourself To Experience The Support Of Voters in South Dakota and Montana for Senator Obama.

YES YOU DO!!!

YES WE CAN!!!

Phone calls to SD

Jeanine — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 19:36:09 EDT

Score card:

Already voted for Obama: 1

Already voted but didn't say: 1

Will vote for Obama: 1

Undecided (but the target of the call, who wasn't home) will vote for Obama: 1

No answer (and we were told not to leave messages): 13

Bad number (disconnected): 6

Not interested (quick hang up): 1

and I lost track of 1.

This seems to be a high number of bad numbers?

Let's reach out to Hillary voters

Sher Watts Spooner — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 18:40:50 EDT

I think it's up to us to reach out to supporters of Sen. Clinton and get them on board for Sen. Obama. My phone banking over the last several months has told me that the vast majority of Democratic voters still liked both candidates and don't want McCain, despite the picture the media tries to paint.

Yes, there are some rabid Hillary supporters like the few we saw online and on TV today and yesterday. But consider: There were supposed to be 10,000 Hillary supporters in D.C. yesterday. There were a few hundred. The loud and rude behavior in the RBC meeting room was from only a handful of people.

So talk personally to someone you know at work, at church, in the neighborhood, wherever. Voters are understandably disappointed when their candidate loses, but when we remind them of the disasters our country will face if John McCain is elected next November, most will come around.

The good news is: In the South Dakota phone banking I did today and yesterday, I didn't get one Clinton supporter.

A week making calls for Barack Obama

Lorne — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:32:37 EDT

I've spent about 10 - 12 hours last week making calls for the Barack Obama Campaign. The "My.Barackobama.com" website makes it very easy to make calls from the comfort of my own home, I don't have to drive anywhere, and I can do it whenever I want, as long as the calls are made during the calling hours for the state I'm calling.

It's been useful to me to have a VOIP headset, which you can easily get at an electronics store, and I subcribed to "Skpe.com" which allows me to make as many calls as like thorughout the US right from my computer (you do need to have a high speed internet service, and it only cost less than $3.00 a month.

Way Cool

Another really cool thing about calling with "Skype" is that the phone numbers that are to be called show up on my computer with the "Skype" button on them, and I just have to click on the numbers and Skype makes the call. No need to punch in the numbers so it makes it faster.

If you have questions about how to easily do what I've been doing you can email me at lornebarvizub2b@yahoo.com

Top 5 reasons for still making calls

Jeff — Sat, 31 May 2008 19:00:46 EDT

Each of these happened to me today and if you call they will happen to you as well I would bet

5. You get the chance to speak with people from all over the country

4. 3 big points

3. You can disspell rumors

Today I had someone who was supporting another person because they didnt like that he wasnt American enough. I asked why they said he didnt support the flag, take the pledge etc. You can reach out and gently find the way to convince them this isnt the case. Find the common ground. We wont win this person for Tues but we may in Nov. She was interested enough to research it some more. That is the power of a call.

2. You might not win them for the primary but you might help bridge the differences with Senator Clinton supporters

Both today and many other days I have had supporters of Senator Clinton who are big supporters. By reaching out though I often get but if he wins I will be supporting him. You can make a difference and bridge this gap

1. You might not win them for the primary but you may make those who were Republican think about things and they may be on our side in Nov

As they learn more, they like that he is tough on terror (ie wants to be in Afghanastan) is interested in reducing taxes for many (middle class, those on social security making less money). So many things they may agree or you can educate them on other stands of his. This happened to me at least 5 times today and they were in many ways the most fun calls. Each person I believe will now look at Senator Obama in a different way. I dont know if we will get them, but I did reach them and he is now a consideration whereas before he didnt even get that. This is a great feeling.

So come get some of those good feelings yourself. Pick up the phone.

South Dakota

Jeanine — Sat, 31 May 2008 15:36:54 EDT

Well, these folks don't want to talk. I hope they weren't all for Hilary. A couple of folks said they were for McCain.

I'll try to do some more tomorrow.

Now to check in on the rules committee!

Making those calls

HelenH — Thu, 29 May 2008 22:29:24 EDT

Please join me in making calls to South Dakota and Montana. I have posted events and would love for you to join as an invitee.

There is a sense of frustration when calling but do not let that deter you. Many people I call tell me they have been called 3-4 times. I am not sure how this can be corrected but I would hope whoever is in charge of the phone banks would try and not post duplicate numbers. Also, don't get peronally offended if someone hangs up on you. People will do that and this is America so that is their choice (and their loss).

Please make as many calls as you can prior to June 3. Let help seal the deal for Barack Obama by calling as many people as we can in South Dakota and Montana.

Thanks, Helen

enjoying the calls

Stephanie — Wed, 28 May 2008 22:48:46 EDT

I just wanted to write and share what a positive experience I've had making calls for the campaign. I'm a mom with two small kids so it can be hard to get out to many events, but the on-line phone banking has allowed me an outlet to get involved and make me feel like I'm making a real difference. While I've encountered a few grumpy folks, the many people who have been so happy to talk to me has more than made up for it. I find that the vast majority are at least polite and willing to listen, and many have warmly thanked me for my efforts. It has been interesting and rewarding to connect with people from all over the country and share a renewed enthusiasm and hope. I've also enjoyed the concrete results of being able to sway peoples votes, get them to volunteer themselves, or help them get a ride or needed info to vote.

I wanted to encourage everyone to keep up the calls, or to give it a try if you haven't already. You can try making just a few calls, but you might find that it's hard to stop. :)

Make an Impact in Puerto Rico

John Schueler — Wed, 28 May 2008 19:28:01 EDT

This Sunday, voters in Puerto Rico will head to the polls and cast their ballots in one of the final three primaries. Right now, Spanish speaking volunteers from across the country are making calls from the comfort of their home to voters in Puerto Rico. By doing so they are helping to ensure that all of our supporters have the information they need to cast their ballot and make their voice heard.

If you speak Spanish fluently, you can have a major impact on this crucial contest simply by picking up the phone. We've put together a list of potential supporters in Puerto Rico we need to reach before Sunday's primary. No prior experience is necessary. We will provide you with some guidelines, a simple script in Spanish, and a list of phone numbers that only you will have access to.

With 55 delegates at stake in this contest, we need to do all we can to maximize our support. Our dedicated team of volunteers and staffers are working hard on the ground, but they can’t do it alone. We are just 45 delegates away from securing the nomination. Our online calling campaign to Puerto Rico just launched today, so every call you make gets us closer to that goal.

(Please note that some phone companies consider Puerto Rico an International Call and some do not, so you might want to check on the details on your own personal service plan before making calls.)

You can view Barack's positions on many of the issues facing Puerto Ricans, and then log on to our online phonebanking tool and start making calls. The calls will run untill 9pm EST tonight, and resume at 9am EST tomorrow.

Link Needed on SD Site

Roy from NH — Tue, 27 May 2008 21:18:28 EDT

For people calling South Dakota--We need a link on the state page so folks we find to go to South Dakota can fill out the on line sign up form. Previous states had a big button. The page is there, but there's no link to it, except on our call page, which the people we talk to can't get to. They need to get to page

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

The easiest way to do this I've found is to go to the South Dakota page, which is

http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/sdhome

Then have them delete the stuff to the right of "page/"

and have them type in "s/cometosd" in its place.

I've found it a lot better to have folks fill out the form themselves--if I lead them to it to make sure they get there.

Hope this helps.

Phonebanking for barack

lovejoy — Tue, 27 May 2008 10:34:32 EDT

This has been one of the most rewarding thing ive done just those few momets of these people life are so devine i called a father and asked for his daughter and his response was "i would if she was still alive" i too almost died just the pain and its a family weekend please know and veiw these time as a oppurtunity not just to teach about Obama but to touch someone who you would never other wise meet be gentle especially to those that dont support our guy a next call this angry lady made me know she would not vote for a muslim or a comunist in this the first turly national race with the internet there are still people that are not well informed or her case misinformedand then their are the polite even nice non supporters this country is full of some of the greatest people in the world you cannot phonebank and not love the people and the country this is a great time to be in the greatest country in the earth we are at a cross roads here in this country our choice is not only important to ourlives but it also carries the hope and dreams of millions of people all over the world and we must view it with those eyes we are not alone and the world knows when America lives up to the ideals we have instill in the world we are not the only ones that are better for it just like we needed president Bush to help restore the faith of Americans and the world in the office of the presidency we need barack Obama to restore the "idea" thats America standing up again for what we stand for freedom equality justice and the American way so lets push up and onward for our fight is a just fight our cause is the human cause our victory is not for us alone yet for all let our work be our witness let our actions be our judge May the creator aide us in our choice GOD bless us america and the world may god bless us all

My experience with the campaign

patricianoble — Mon, 26 May 2008 20:36:33 EDT

I met like minded people at a house party forming Hudson Valley fo Obama at the home of Stephen and Julia Gilman. We first planned a fund raising event for which I did the publicity and made a child's table for fun. Then we planned tabling events for the summer which we took turns running. I was on the website daily finding out what needed to be done. Somehow I connected with the campaign and was invited to come to an event in New York at Washington Square Park. I was interviewed and videotaped and heard the candidate speak in person and had the thrill of meeting him in person. At that time I promised to work for him daily. I was a delegate from district 22 in mostly Hilary country and our first task was to get him on the ticket. I organized a group(not too big) and we went to work. With the help of my friend Clark and others we managed to get over 500 signatures. After he was on the ticket, I went to NH for a week to help out there. That was a great experience! I wrote alot of postcards and made phone calls and was welcomed as one of them. I learned a great deal about running a campaign from the ground up. I made one more trip to NH with my friend Stephen We got a chance to see the Senator in person again and made lots of phone calls. At that point we were in contact with the New York office who said for us to set up an office. We covered a large area with no supplies except those we bought ourselves with personal generosity and donations. We managed thanks to free office space from Stephen and his wife who were the first people to host our group in the beginning and bits and pieces of furniture from our members which by the way grew by leaps and bounds at that time. We had an amazing bridge walk with nearly 300 people and signs and shouting out his slogans. Many people came though the office new and old friends. We worked on getting out the vote until Feb 5. We were able to get two delegates from our district. We did very well considering the circumstances. I went to Cleveland to work on the Ohio campaign for 5 days. Many in our group made numerous trips too Pennsylvannia. I came back to more phone banking and feeling up and down with Barack's fortunes. It is a passion for me to see him as president and I am super sensitive to negative coments about him but try to take the high road as he does. That is my main work with the campaign and can't wait to start the national campaign. I have sontinued to contribute finacially to the campaign.

Trying this out??

Katryn — Mon, 26 May 2008 15:04:32 EDT

I am new at this....I want to get more involved in the Obama campaign and I thought this might be another way to discuss issues and get involved

Obama Phone Bank Chat Room

Astrid Harmon — Mon, 26 May 2008 12:15:22 EDT

Hello everyone!
I volunteered for Obama in Oregon and made thousands of phone calls. Now the campaign needs our help to make calls to Montana and South Dakota.

I'm a regular chatter on paltalk.com, which has text and voice chat. There are many Obama supporters who use paltalk, so I thought of making a private room for Obama Volunteers to gather and phonebank!

We have a virtual room to support,train and encourage each other in our common goal:to get Obama into the White House!

Please consider joining us! We are in the 'Social Issues/Government' section and the room name is " Obama Volunteer HQ " . It has a lockword, because we don't want it to be a debate room. The lockword is 'hope'.

thank you

WOW!

Lahiny OBAMA Organizing Fellow — Sat, 24 May 2008 20:44:11 EDT

Go fellow PhoneBankers! Go!

Make Calls this Memorial Day Weekend

Nikki Sutton — Sat, 24 May 2008 15:22:20 EDT

Grassroots supporters who are home for a long Memorial Day weekend are making calls to encourage Montana voters to participate in One-Stop Early Voting for Barack.

With only three contests remaining, every conversation you have and voter you reach could bring us closer to securing the Democratic nomination. Encouraging supporters to early vote in Montana will give us an edge going into the June 3rd primary.

This weekend, Beverly in North Carolina will be making calls:

I will not have family in for Memorial Day, but I will be contacting as many families as I can by phonebanking to those next two primary states. So, please, take a break from your BBQs, picnics, or whatever and make some calls!

On Thursday, Montana GOTV Director, Jeff Philips, spoke to the National Call Team about how things are going on the ground in Montana and how the calls you make will help impact the upcoming primary:

It only takes a minute to get started. You can listen to call tips and a tutorial, or check out the phonebanking Frequently Asked Questions to help you get started.

Wish voters in Montana a Happy Memorial Day by making calls now.

Clinton Negotiations??

Joyce — Fri, 23 May 2008 15:21:37 EDT

As much as I would like to see Mrs. Clinton gracefully withdraw, I would not like to see any agreement made with the Clintons! Senator Obama should be allowed to make his choices for VP, Supreme Court, Cabinet etc. without making any agreements with the Clintons about anything! I, as a white, over 60, female do not feel that her supporters march in lockstep with her. Yes, there are loud and visible ones, but these are not nearly equal to the ones who will easily change to Obama. Many of them even object to her tactics. While calling for Obama, I have spoken with a number of them who said they would vote for her at their primary, but could easily vote for Obama later.

More important now is for all of us to contact undecided super delegates in our states and ask them to decide within the next week!

HELP GOTV in Montana and SD this Memorial Day Weekend

Bev4Obama — Fri, 23 May 2008 12:27:32 EDT

Obama Friends,

Although most of us think it's over, we need to BANK more people for Barack! I will not have family in for Memorial Day but I will be contacting as many families as I can by phonebanking to those next two primary states. So, please, take a break from your BBQ's, picnics, or whatever and make some calls! If you need directions, contact me or click ACTIONS on the tool bar and PHONE BANKING! We still can make a difference.....Barack needs us just as much now as before. Let's make this Memorial Day Memorable for those who have passed on!

Phone Bank Talking Points - Healthcare & The Economy

Christine "No Distractions" O'Bama — Fri, 23 May 2008 09:38:52 EDT

Thanks for visiting! I am so glad you will be phone banking. I don't know if you have made any calls before, but it's really pretty easy, and sometimes even fun. You know, if you want to warm-up to the calls, it's easier to make them during the week, or during the day when fewer people are home -- then you can get used to leaving messages, and do not talk with as many live people.

On healthcare:

I use the term "universal healthcare" because this is the term Hillary uses, and to show that our plan covers everyone too. Then, to distinguish the two plans, I say that ours is not mandatory, but Hillary's is. I tell them that the problem with Hillary's plan is that when helathcare is mandated, there has to be penalties (in the way of fines $$$) for people who do not buy into the plan. This is the type of plan they currently have in Massachusetts, and which has turned out to cost way more than expected, and lots of people have been unable to afford to buy into the program, and then they end of with not only no healthcare, but a fine that they must pay as well. Deval Patrick is one of the Obama campaign co-chairs, so Barack know first-hand how the Massachusetts (and therefore, Hillary's) healthcare with mandates does not work.

As for our healthcare plan, it does not mandate that people buy into the plan. However, all of the experts have shown that the plan will reduce the per person cost of purchasing healthcare by $2,500. This will make it possible for everyone who wants to buy healthcare to buy it. It will also lower the cost to employers who already purchase healthcare for their employees. As a former Republican, myself, I am always reminded that the next president will have to get healthcare passed over the objections of the Republicans in the House and Senate. I think Barack's plan, without mandates and with lower costs, stands a much better chance of that.

Finally, on healthcare, Hillary does not have a very good record with respect to getting any healthcare legislation actually passed. In the 1990's it was her way or the highway with healthcare, and we stil have no universal healthcare in this country 15 years later. [Did you know that back in 1993 and 1994, there was a Congressman from TN who had a competing healthcare plan that actually had much wider Democratic, and even some Republic support, but Hillary worked day and night to sink it because it was not HER plan, and then she could not get the needed support for her own plan afterall. This is the kind of divisiveness that will get us no where.] On the other hand, as a State Senator in Illinois, Barack Obama passed legislation that provided health insurance to 150,000 previously uninsured children in that state -- a feat that required bi-partisan support.

On the Economy:

Here are some talking points I received from Obama for America just before the PA primary, and I still have a printout of them in front of me everytime I call. Sometime I almost read them to voters when they ask the general "What will he do for those of us in the middle class?" question.

Obama for America Talking Points

"Fighting for America's middle class"

Barack Obama believes that to bring about real change for working Americans, we need to stand up to the special interests that have been setting the agenda in Washington for too long.

We can trust Barack Obama to take on the special interests because he's the one candidate who's actually worked to rein in their power by passing far-reaching lobbying reforms in Illinois and in the U.S. Senate. And he's the only candidate who isn't taking a dime from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs on this campaign.

Obama will fight for the middle class as President. He will pass universal health care by the end of his first term, saving the typical family up to $2,500 a year. He was the first candidate to propose a middle-class tax cut that will provide relief to 95% of working Americans - $1,000 per working family. He'll also eliminate income taxes for any senior making less than $50,000.

Obama has a job creation agenda that will create millions of new jobs and do it in a way that's fiscally responsible. Obama will stop giving tax breaks to companies that ship jobs overseas and start giving them to companies that create jobs here at home. He's proposed a National Infrastructure Reinvestment Bank that will invest $60 billion over ten years, and generate nearly two million new jobs - many of them in the construction industry that's been hard hit by the housing crisis we're facing. Obama will also put $150 billion over ten years into establishing a green energy sector that will create up to five million new jobs - and those are jobs that pay well and can't be outsourced.

Obama has been fighting for working families for over two decades. As a community organizer, he helped provide job training for the jobless after the local steel plants closed; as a state Senator, he helped put $100 million in tax breaks into the pockets of working families and brought Democrats and Republicans together to expand health care for 150,000 children and parents. And that's how you can trust that he'll fight for the middle class as President.

I hope this helps. If you have any other questions, please send me an O-Mail.

Oh, and one other thing -- if someone asks you a detailed question about something you really don't know about, just tell the person, you don't know, but that you will research the answer for them and call them back (Make sure you write down their name and number from the call screen). The send and e-mail to me, or post your question for the blog. And ALWAYS make sure you call the person back.

Happy dialing!

Christine

Re: "There is always a way"

Spencer Hahn — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:50:25 EDT

I just read a GOTV calls post about calling voters in Kentucky.

(http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stateupdates/gGBDrf)

In it, Steph talks about how she called a voter in Kentucky who suffered from a recent stroke and couldn't find a way to get to the polls to vote. Steph coordinated for a volunteer to give the voter a ride to the polls and she says it was the most rewarding call she had made that day.

That reminds me of what happened to me on Election Day here in Indiana. While campaigning outside a major polling place in Lafayette, IN, a homeless man went stomping out of the polling location because he was refused the right to vote, even though he was properly registered. While my friend and I kept him engaged and talking for a few minutes, I called the voter hotline and finally got a legal professional on the line to help him out.

We didn't even know who he wanted to vote for until he later volunteered the information, but it didn't matter to us because the most important thing in that moment was correcting the injustice that had been done to him. In the end, we went back in with him and cleared up the issue and he finally had the opportunity to exercise his voting right. It was probably the most rewarding part of the whole day for me.

I'm raising $1000 for Barack Obama! Donate to my fundraising effort!

http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/donpablohahn

GOTV Calls: 'There is always a way'

Christopher Hass — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:16:54 EDT

All day long, grassroots phonebankers like Steph in Colorado have been making last minute Get Out the Vote calls to Oregon and Kentucky. After months of campaigning and weeks of calls, it can be easy to dismiss the impact that these last few calls can have. But as Step wrote on her blog today, the impact of these calls is measured not just in the polls, but on the effect your calls can have on the lives of the people you reach:

Today I called Kentucky to GOTV. I love doing this because it proof of how much more similar we are than different. About 10 or 12 calls in I came across Mary Lee, when I first spoke with her, she had mentioned how she was recovering from a stroke, and wasn't sure how or if she would be able to get to the polls today. She also told me how badly she wanted to cast her vote for Barack Obama, but she had given up her hope of being able to do so.

I told Mary I would help her find a way. I called the 866 number on Mary's behalf to find out about poll rides. I got all her information so that I could sign her up. I called her back to let her know that she should receive word on when a volunteer would be able to pick her up. She was so pleased and grateful to be able to cast her vote today.

This by far was the most rewarding of calls I've made. Because she had given up hope. I think this story epitomizes what this campaign is all about. Where there is hope (and persistent people working hard in the background) there is always a way!

The Kentucky calling campaign runs until 6:00 PM CDT tonight, and the Oregon calling campaign runs until 8:00 PM PDT.

Mary Lee...

steph:) — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:01:49 EDT

Today I called Kentucky to GOTV. I love doing this because it proof of how much more similar we are than different. About 10 or 12 calls in I came across Mary Lee, when I first spoke with her, she had mentioned how she was recovering from a stroke, and wasn't sure how or if she would be able to get to the polls today. She also told me how badly she wanted to cast her vote for Barack Obama, but she had given up her hope of being able to do so.

I told Mary I would help her find a way. I called the 866 number on Mary's behalf to find out about poll rides. I got all her information so that I could sign her up. I called her back to let her know that she should receive word on when a volunteer would be able to pick her up. She was so pleased and grateful to be able to cast her vote today.

This by far was the most rewarding of calls I've made. Because she had given up hope. I think this story epitomizes what this campaign is all about. Where there is hope...( and persistent people working hard in the background)...there is always a way!

TIME ZONES

VJforchange — Tue, 20 May 2008 10:14:59 EDT

If you are calling folks on Oregon to remind them to vote, be mindful of the time zone changes. I'm new at this and I woke up a VERY UNHAPPY person (I'm EST). YIKES!!

CALLING OREGON

New to This — Mon, 19 May 2008 23:34:31 EDT

After getting off the phone with KY at 9PM, I headed west to Oregon.

Most everyone I called tonight had sent in their ballots and were for Barack Obama. It made the calls go so fast - they just flew by.

I reached two households where I was speaking to young men and the person I was calling for was not home, and they did not know if they had voted or not. After explaining why i was calling, I asked them if they were voting.

One said he was too young - he is turning 18 on June 7th, but if he could, he would vote for Obama. So I let him know that it looks likely that he will be able to vote Obama in November. But he thought he would have to wait for 4 more years for a chance to vote for the POTUS. So I explained that I thought he qualified if he was 18 by November 4th.

So then he wanted to know how to register. He had Internet access so I sent him to Rock the Vote. "That is awesome - I am so psyched to know this."

The other guy was 19 and also an Obama supporter. But he had not registered because he just could not find the time to go and do it. So I again explained that he could do it online through Rock the Vote. He could not believe that it was so simple - and wished he known for the primary. "Don't cry over spilt milk - just go do it now and get ready for November." "I'm on it!" he said.

This is one reason I really do not mind the campaign going through every state - it will help us lay the groundwork for the general election. I can almost taste the change that is in the air.

Phone Bank - Whew for the Caller

Caveat — Mon, 19 May 2008 21:38:13 EDT

Just finished calls in Kentucky (859). People were genuinely communicating their feelings and concerns.

Kentucky voters are not as unthinking as the media and others say. Like a majority of voters, they want someone that can help and correct our problems.

One man, feeling slighted by Obama's attention on Oregon, spoke with me for five minutes and said, Obama is going to win the nomination and he will vote for him in the national(he started out undecided).

Great feeling speaking with people and contributing to our country's future.

Grassroots Phonebankers: Calling Kentucky

Christopher Hass — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:57:02 EDT

In the face of what has become a massive, yearlong 50 state (plus) primary, it can be easy to lose sight of the fact that what often moves voters are quiet, one on one conversations — at their doorstep or on the phone. Ealier today one of our many grassroots phonebankers, "New to This" in Cold Spring, New York, wrote about her own experiences calling voters in Kentucky:

I have been making calls to Kentucky and am pretty excited about the enthusiasm I am hearing on the other end of the line. The main places I have been calling into are Louisville, Lexington and Frankfort.
Louisville is really key to narrowing the gap in this state since it is home to roughly 40% of all Democrats living in KY. People are so excited in Louisville — a man there told me he thinks Obama can take the city. Our campaigners there have been working hard, and many people from neighboring Indiana are going across the river on a daily basis to help out.
Lexington and Frankfort seemed to be going well. I had one young woman I spoke to explain to me why she was for Obama. She really like his health care plan, and said, "He really cares about people like me."
She explained to me that she is 25 years old and has not been able to get adequate medical care — to the point that she is missing teeth. She said many of her friends of the same age would not be voting; they are not even registered. She keeps trying to explain to them how important it is. I asked her if she would like to volunteer to help out on the campaign. "Could I?" she asked. I looked up the local HQ and gave her the phone and address.
I explained that in a way she already was a part of the campaign just because she was trying to get people to register — and I explained about Vote for Change. I told her we need self starters like herself.
"It would be my honor," she said.
I know it sounds corny but conversations like this one really touch me. It reminds me of how important reaching out to every voter is, and how encouraging people to speak up is an integral part of this campaign.

The polls in Kentucky open in less than 24 hours. No matter where you are, you can help right now by making calls to undecided voters in Kentucky. The Kentucky calling campaign runs until 9:00 PM EDT tonight.

CALLING KENTUCKY

New to This — Mon, 19 May 2008 00:19:57 EDT

I have been making calls to KY and am pretty excited about the enthusiasm I am hearing on the other end of the line. The main places I have been calling into are Louisville, Lexington and Frankfort.

Louisville is really key to narrowing the gap in this state since it is home to roughly 40% of all democrats living in KY. People are so excited in Lousiville - a man there told me he thinks Obama can take the city. Our campaigners there have been working hard, and many people from neighboring Indiana are going across the river on a daily basis to help out.

Lexington and Frankfort seemed to be going well. I had one young woman I spoke to explain to me why she was for Obama. She really like his helalth care plan, and said, "He really cares about people like me."

She explained to me that she is 25 years old and has not been able to get adequate medical care - to the point that she is missing teeth. She said many of her friends of the same age would not be voting; they are not even registered. She keeps trying to explain to them how important it is. I asked her if she would like to volunteer to help out on the campaign. "Could I?" she asked. I looked up the local HQ and gave her the phone and address.

I explained that in a way she already was a part of the campaign just because she was trying to get people to register - and I explained about Vote for Change. I told her we need self starters like herself.

"It would be my honor," she said.

I know it sounds corny but conversations like this one really touch me. It reminds me of how important reaching out to every voter is, and how encouraging people to speak up is an integral part of this campaign. It makes it all so immediately gratifying.

What do you do...

Jeanine — Sun, 18 May 2008 21:06:28 EDT

when it gets past 9pm and there still are 5 names on this list?

I think we shouldn't call too late, but these Kentucky women talk so much that I didn't finish even though I allotted over an hour.

The count was 6 undecided, 6 messages, 2 no answers, 1 not available, 5 for Obama.

Running in the Kentucky Race...!

ChiTown Rover — Sun, 18 May 2008 16:04:46 EDT

Phone banking for Obama08 has quickly become my latest obsession. Something akin to building a White House man, with dark hair and a tan, who's good at relieving our tensions! Seriously though, it’s now the perfect time of day for GOTV calling into Kentucky. My concern is how well my deep baritone, with it's tincture of “Louisiana, and up the Big Muddy, to the Southside of Chicago, college/university accent will play in that part of the country. Do they still have the little statues of Negro horse tenders with their extended bridle arms? I saw these cultural icons/symbols years ago when I visited friends in two Kentucky cities, on two separate occasions: Louisville, and Hopkinsville. Here's the deal: I'll make 25 calls into Kentucky; you make 25 more for me, and then I'll start making calls again into Oregon while Barak is campaigning there today. It'll be a successful double-wammy! Well, here I am, like a sun-baked person standing on the edge of a pool of deep, cool, blue water; a little timid, but ready to take the plunge…!

100 DAYS FROM TODAY!

Susan Federighi — Sun, 18 May 2008 00:33:27 EDT

THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION WILL COMMENCE 100 DAYS FROM TODAY! THAT'S THE TIME LEFT. LET'S MAKE THOSE CALLS - AS MANY AS WE CAN!! CONTRIBUTE WHATEVER WE CAN. WE ARE IN THE FINAL STRETCH!! THIS IS OUR TIME TO CHANGE HISTORY - RIGHT NOW!! WE NEED TO BE A CONSOLIDATED STRONG VOICE TO OUR DISTRICT SUPERDELEGATES WHO REMAIN UNCOMMITTED. CALL, CALL, CALL TOMORROW AND MONDAY!

History in the making

Marilyn from McAllen, TX — Sun, 18 May 2008 00:33:05 EDT

I have called people in Kentucky and Oregon! I had a great time doing it! I spoke with people about their troubles ( some of these lonely souls talked and talked) We talked about the bad state of the country. Health care and a need for change. Folks in Kentucky seemed to need to talk... about their situations and there troubles. I think I made connections. I told them about my background and why I am supporting Obama. I think I swung a few to our side. I will continue to make calls and know that I helped a bit.

Kentucky

Jeanine — Sat, 17 May 2008 20:40:11 EDT

Well, these folks aren't quite as pleasant as Iowans. This was the Women in Kentucky list.

There were 2 who 'wouldn't share their votes with me' and 2 who weren't 'in the mood', plus one who said she was for Clinton and one male who was voting for McCain.

Three said they would vote for Obama and 3 were undecided. I did talk a while with the undecided.

One of the undecided said Obama seemed okay but she didn't like his wife. Assuming she was talking about the comment about being proud of America, I tried to make the point that Michelle was very aware of the advantages of her education, 'only in America', etc. However, for someone growing up on the south side of Chicago, to have your husband a serious candidate for the presidency certainly would make you proud. The person said she guessed that was right....

I said it would be great to have such a nice couple/family in the White House.

Was that mean to say?

So its true...

Nick — Sat, 17 May 2008 18:30:06 EDT

The whole country isn't like the South. I've been living in the south my whole life, although I have often vacationed away from it. One thing I've learned from phone banking is that much of the country is, in fact more progressive than the south. Between talking to people here in NC, calling people in WV and KY, I've found that the spread of complete apathy towards the election is not as wide as I thought it might be.

As an 18 year old, this is my first election, as well as my first oppurtunity to volunteer in phone banking or any sort of campaigning. I was actually inspired by a group of Hillblazers from my school who sat in Panera Bread all day on the 6th making calls for Hillary. I thought...hey I can do that!

So I did.

Its amazing to see the difference between states, mostly the number of people who tell me they aren't voting at all versus those who are avidly for one candidate or the other. It seems in the South fewer people care to vote at all, which really doesn't surprise me, but its sad to see so many people waste their rights like that. For an area where military recruitment is high, you'd expect to see more people involved in politics, but I guess not. I really think though, especially with the teenagers today, receiving a call from any candidate's volunteer (not the recordings, but a breathing person) means so much more than any TV or radio ad, that it would encourage them to vote.

We have the power to get these people out to the polls, whoever they support, and that should really be our ultimate goal. The youth of the nation need to lead by example and vote, encourage their parents and friends to vote. We need to foster a generation not makred by apathy, but marked by a fervent spirit of patriotism and activism to create change in our world.

Call Kentucky; Call Oregon

Herschel.Corpus.Christi — Sat, 17 May 2008 16:36:46 EDT

Fellow fleet fingered foot-soldiers in the phone war, it’s OUR campaign now. There has been a pivot in the campaign to elect Senator Obama to Presidency of The United States of America. Emphasis has shifted from the immediate primary race to Fall Campaign. In earlier primaries there would have been a weekly “all court press” to win. Large staged events would have been intertwined with hosts of community events. Now, OBAMA is the DRAMA.

The script has even changed. We leave messages about Senator Obama having won more delegates, won more contest, and won more votes. He has the best chance to win in November is another message. It is now about November.

This is GREAT, but WE need to help finish these TWO primaries this Tuesday. Just as a new front open in a war, a new front has opened in this campaign. We have inherited the task of finishing these last primaries. We need to CALL.

I have made over 2,000 calls: 1,000 in Texas as a precinct captain; 500 to Oregon; 100 to Guam; Several hundred to Indiana. I have enjoyed making these calls. There is a tendency to say the race is over. Why call? The answer for now is Kentucky and Oregon.

In the Game of Expectations that the Mainstream Media plays, we need to help Senator Obama exceed! They sure had fun with the outcome of the West Virginia primary. Calls will make a difference. Any calls will help. Even if Senator Obama’s percentage goes up only slightly, the spin can be John Edwards’ endorsement helped. Those that want to spin it in a negative tone would do so anyway, even if Senator Obama got 100% of the vote, they would ask does Senator Obama have a problem with the vote of angels, “I noticed he didn’t get any.”

We have three more days For US, THE CALLERS, to make a DIFFERENCE in this ELECTION; to make a DIFFERENCE IN AMERICA; and to make a DIFFERENCE in OURSELVES.

CALL NOW!!!

YES YOU CAN!!!

YES WE CAN!!!

Can you spare just "two hours" for our Country ?

Jazziette — Sat, 17 May 2008 14:54:00 EDT

Two hours! That's not asking much! Can you spare just a couple of hours to call people in Kentucky or Oregon this weekend? It's a great time to catch them at home and ask them to please vote on May 20th in the Primaries!

It's more important than you think! And very rewarding.

I just started doing it yesterday and I wish I had begun earlier!

It's really not asking a lot. Even two hours can make a huge difference!

Thanks!

~ Jazz

Whew! Kentucky is Tough

Debbie — Sat, 17 May 2008 13:27:06 EDT

I just spent the last hour making calls to Kentucky voters. I got one person at home who told me she was an Obama supporter. Mostly I had to leave messages. One woman told me she thought HRC was the best candidate. Unfortunately the rest of the people I did reach hung up as soon as I said who I was supporting. Well, I guess that's the way it goes. One man told me he wasn't voting for a Muslim and hung up before I could talk to him about his misunderstanding.

Senator Obama really needs to get his story out more and let people begin to know the real person. If you don't watch the news and just hear 527 comments, there isn't much good to get out of this election. So...keep on calling and don't be discouraged. We're going to win them all over before this is over...

Kentucky

Dr. Bill Feltner — Sat, 17 May 2008 08:15:03 EDT

Calling on all supporters. Focus on Ky. we mustdo all we can!

I am expanding my call efforts state wide.

Make more than 25 calls. Go if you are able. make sure you Do!

Dr Bill

My first night of phone banking

Jer — Fri, 16 May 2008 22:54:09 EDT

I've never "cold called" anyone. I've frankly always been a lazy person who has always been extremely shy and is terrible with rejection (which could explain why I'm still a single guy). Tonight I had thought I'd give phone banking a try.

I must admit. This campaign and/or website sure knows how to help a guy like me. The ease and guide to help tends to make the task so easy. Sure, I had a lady tell me that she doesn't want me to call again. a nursing home represenative said that they did not want me to attempt to call the particular person, but that's okay. I politely apologized, thanked them for their time, then carried on.

I had also spoken wiith a lady named Mildred in Montana. She had first stated that she was undecided. I stuck with the "script" provided, but then found myself answering her question about why I had become a volunteer. I learned that she is a senior citizen who is getting by on social security, but she doesn't like how polititians are influenced by special interest groups. Mildred shared with me that she has grandchildren my age and was worried that my generation may not have social security when we retire. Mildred's questions led her to learn about me. She wanted to learn more about why I decided to volunteer for a presidential campaign. I was honest. I had told her that I shared the frustrations of friends my age: it seems as if electable representation is a dream. I told her that I had a hunch that it might be different with Mr. Obama. I told her that I had the impression that when senator Obama speaks, it's not a calculated agenda. He seems to be a gentleman who is human, intelligent, and is willing to try to influence our political system to get back to the way our forefathers had anticipated it to be-- through representation of the people by the people. Mildred and I concluded that the political process of ours will never be perfect, but sometimea it's nice to talk to someone who also wants to help"nudge" us back to the right direction.

I have to admit...even if senator Obama does not win the presidency, I feel a sense of pride and excitement. I talked to a stranger about issues that affects her and I. We shared our concerns of the future, our disappointment of aspects of our government, and our hope for influencing change. This was all due to volunteering to help Mr. Obama. I realize that I'm living in an age where most people have no faith in their ability to influence politics. They may think that it's not worth taking the time to go out and vote or participate. If Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, or George Washington thought that it wasn't worth the risking their life to break away from the injustices of an empire...or if the actions of only a few couldn't make a difference against the superpower of that time, where would we be now?

Now I'm rambling on and on. It was all spurred by hopping on to this website to help by volunteering. Thank you Mr. Obama.

Call Kentucky

Roy from NH — Thu, 15 May 2008 20:29:08 EDT

These are among the most fun types of calls to make--looking for people who are happy to drop everything and go the Kentucky in the next few days to help out with the campaign. I've been calling every night until I get one or two people to make the trip--very rewarding calls, and folks are really happy to hear from me, even if it doesn't work out for them to go.

http://my.barackobama.com/CallKY