RI HQ Blog

OFA – RI celebrates Nov. 4 Anniversary with Renewed Commitment to Change

Emilie Aries — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:59:15 EST

Organizing for America of Rhode Island celebrated the one-year anniversary of Election Day 2008 with a gathering at CAV Restaurant in Providence that encapsulated the dual emotions of the day: pride over the progress our nation has made by electing President Obama and a renewed commitment to fighting for the change we voted for!

In attendance were former Rhode Island volunteers, campaign staff, grassroots organizers and current Organizing for America volunteers. We heard from campaign super-volunteer, Greg Greco on his experiences as a volunteer:

“Being part of a historic moment in our country’s history one year ago was truly a highlight in my life. But as President Obama has said himself, that’s where our work starts, not ends…but President Obama cannot do it alone - no one can! He and our country are only as strong as those of us that believe in making our country great.”

As a surprise addition, Congressman Jim Langevin and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse called in to the party to wish the crowd well and give a behind-the-scenes update on the progress in Washington. Both Members of the House were energized by the continued enthusiasm of Rhode Island Obama supporters and stressed the importance of staying fired up!

“This day last year was not the end of our fight for change,” said Congressman Langvein, “it was our beginning!” Senator Whitehouse added, “The mood in Washington is intense – we are closer than ever to passing real reform and rely on the grassroots to help make it happen!”

All attendees agreed, whether you volunteered during the campaign or not, and whether you’ve already participated in the fight for health insurance reform or not, NOW is the time to get FIRED UP and READY TO GO all over again!

Sign up to volunteer with Organizing for America of Rhode Island today and add your voice to our campaign for health insurance reform.

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

Christopher Hass — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:03:55 EST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Thank You, Rhode Island

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:55:04 EST

Video: Election Night Speech in Grant Park

Christopher Hass — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 11:06:36 EST

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

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

Obama Wins Rhode Island

Christopher Hass — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 21:15:04 EST

The networks are now projecting that Barack Obama will win the state of Rhode Island.

It's Not Over Yet

Bradley Portnoy — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:06:28 EST

The polls are now closed in the east, but the election isn't over yet. We've come so far, we've come this close, because of our volunteers like you around the country. Until the polls close everywhere, we can't let up for one second, not when there's so much at stake.

Now we have to race the sun across America and call into states where the election is still being contested. This is our chance to change America, and we can't stop until there's nowhere left to fight. Please select a state to call now.

Rhode Island: Polls Open 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Erik Weber — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:01:19 EST

In Rhode Island, polls are open today from 7:00 AM until 9:00 PM. Anyone who is in line by 9:00 PM will be allowed to vote. You can find your polling location now.

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

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

You do not need identification at the polling place unless you registered by mail and did not provide proper ID with your registration.

Proper identification when registering by mail is either a copy of a current and valid photo ID or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or government document that states your name and address.

If you registered by mail and did not provide identity documentation, you will need to show ID when you go to vote.

What time will the polls be open on November 4?

Rhode Island polls are open from 7 AM - 9 PM.

What about voters with disabilities?

If you are blind, disabled or unable to read or write, you may be given assistance at the polls by a person of your choice as long as that person is not your employer or an agent of your employer, or an officer or agent of your union.

Every polling place is situated in a building which can be entered and exited by persons who are disabled or elderly. If you are disabled or elderly and the assigned polling place is inaccessible, the local board must provide alternative means for you to cast a ballot on Election Day. DRE machines will be available for the handicapped.

Polls Are Closing - It's Now or Never for the Change We Need

Bradley Portnoy — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:38:19 EST

In just hours, polls will close in the northeast. Already, millions of Americans have gone to the ballot box to stand up and make their voices heard.

If you haven't voted yet, it's now or never. The window hasn't closed, but time is running out. Find your polling place and head out now:

http://www.voteforchange.com

If you've already voted, you can still help the campaign make history. The last polls in the lower 48 states don't close until 11pm, and you can make calls into essential battleground states until then:

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

We can't let up for one second until the polls are closed everywhere. We've almost crossed the finish line - let's sprint until we do.

Don't Miss Your Chance To Make History -- Vote, Then Volunteer

Bradley Portnoy — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:11:14 EST

Across the country, Americans have already gone to their polling locations in droves to elect Barack Obama. They know that he’ll work hard to bring the change we need to Washington, from ending the Bush-McCain economic policies to giving a $1,000 tax cut to 95% of families.

Time is running out fast – there are only a few hours left before the polls close. If you haven’t yet, it's time to get to your polling place and cast your ballot.

Find your polling place here:

http://www.voteforchange.com

Then help the campaign get out the vote. Find out what you can do:

http://my.barackobama.com/november

Get Out the Vote in New Hampshire

Bradley Portnoy — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:10:34 EST

Volunteers from across Rhode Island will be meeting today at noon at Hope High School in Providence to get out the vote in New Hampshire. They'll carpool, and for those without transportation, a bus will be provided. All hands are needed on deck in the Granite State - please sign up to join us.

"We Have A Lot of Work To Do"

Bradley Portnoy — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:14:53 EST

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

Here it is, our moment - the election is tomorrow. In 35 hours, the polls will be closed across the country. Watch this message from Barack:

Can you knock on some doors for Barack? Can you make some calls? Will you talk to your neighbors and convince your friends? Will you give Barack your vote? Together, we can win this election and change this country and change the world. We only have 35 hours. Let's get to work.

Rhode Island Call Team: We need 3,000 more calls

Erik Weber — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 19:46:42 EDT

On Wednesday the Rhode Island Call Team reached their call goal by making almost 2,500 calls in seven days. This is a great achievement, but we have a lot of work left to do as we had into the most important weekend of the election.

From now until Election Day, we are asking Rhode Island to make at least 3,000 more calls to help Get Out the Vote in battleground states. This means that we need everyone to step up and try to make more phone calls than ever before during these last five days.

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

SNL's Rachel Dratch to Speak at NH Colleges

Alex @ NH HQ — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 19:34:31 EDT

Unprecedented numbers of young voters have joined the political process this year, inspired by Barack Obama's message of change. The vote in New Hampshire - and the election - could be decided by the participation of this crucial voting bloc.

In order to encourage college students to help get out the vote, Rachel Dratch, star of NBC's Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock, will hold rallies at Colby-Sawyer College and Dartmouth College (her alma mater) on Sunday, November 2nd.

Drive to New Hampshire in order to see Rachel. Then, hit the pavement, knocking on doors and making sure that the Granite State goes blue on November 4th! After voting yourself, getting out the vote in New Hampshire is the most important contribution you can make in this election.

10:45 AM - Colby-Sawyer College, Best Hall. New London, NH.
12:45 PM - Dartmouth College, Hinman Forum/Rockefeller Center. Hanover, NH.

Wow

Bradley Portnoy — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 18:58:23 EDT

Ray Sullivan, Rhode Island State Director, just sent out this e-mail:

WOW! That’s all I can say – the response today has been awesome! Right now, our office is busting with more than 140 volunteers making calls into a battleground state. All day there’s been a constant stream of people showing up to make calls for change, folks who say they felt compelled to take part in the most important election of our lifetime. We have so much work to do before Tuesday, so we’ll be on the phones here until 9:00 tonight. Can you come in for a few hours and help us get out the vote?

We need you now! If you can’t come in today please consider volunteering tomorrow in our Rhode Island office or spend the day canvassing in New Hampshire. Tomorrow morning we’ll be rallying with the members of our Congressional Delegation and the Democratic general officers before we head north, and we just found out that former President Bill Clinton will be in the Granite State tomorrow to rally for Barack. Click here to find out more information about the rally.

Our volunteers rock! Now get in here and join us as we sprint to the finish line!

Join President Clinton to Get Out the Vote in NH!

Alex @ NH HQ — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 17:30:04 EDT

Tomorrow, President Bill Clinton will rally voters in New Hampshire by telling them how an Obama/Biden White House will bring the change we need. This campaign has been based on bringing more people into the political process than ever before. Now, with only three days left before Election Day, it's time to make sure that voters - new and old - make their voices heard. Aside from voting yourself, the best way for you to have an impact on this election is to travel to the New Hampshire and get out the vote. Come join President Clinton and Jeanne Shaheen, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, at one of their three in-state appearances and get involved by calling voters and knocking on doors.

Rochester Opera House, Rochester - Doors open at noon. Map.
Greely Park Bandstand, Nashua - Doors open at 2:30 PM. Map.
Manchester Central High Gymnasium, Manchester - Doors open at 4:00 PM. Map.

You can RSVP for any of the events here.

Marti from Cranston

Emilie in Rhode Island — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 14:47:46 EDT

A long-time healthcare activist and Rhode Island community organizer, Marti was an early supporter of Senator Obama and has been volunteering in Rhode Island since before the primary season. Marti has been involved in politics for over 22 years including founding Rhode Island's own Ocean State Action group. She currently commutes to Washington, D.C. twice a month to work in the non-profit sector.

I realized that Barack was something special and wanted to do everything I could to make it happen.

Barack's message of change speaks to Marti's mounting concerns. His policy proposals on how to fix our broken health care system, get the American economy back on track, and make college affordable inspired Marti to volunteer. She realizes that our health care system is failing the middle class, who have enough economic worries already.

The economy is not just an abstraction - I'm looking at my own checkbook and bank account and trying to figure out how I'm ever going to send my kids to college

Senator Obama's ability to inspire and motivate people resonated with Marti, who is trained in community organizing herself. She finds volunteering on this campaign a very rewarding experience because she's seen how people are affected in a personal way. Many Americans have been welcomed into the political process through Obama's grassroots network and Marti joins these volunteers in the Rhode Island HQ to participate in the Phone Bank for Change program.

This campaign is fabulous in the field - the attention to detail and the commitment to a grassroots field plan as opposed to simply a commercial game is just spectacular. I feel completely supported as a volunteer. People should feel confident that they could walk in here, never having done this before and feel just fine.

These next 5 days are absolutely vital to our success. Join us at Rhode Island headquarters and help contact voters in battleground states like New Hampshire, Ohio, Montana and more! Barack needs you to add your voice to the campaign now more than ever. Please sign up to phonebank for the change we need between now and election day.

McCain's Counting on New Hampshire: New Hampshire is counting on YOU

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:22:38 EDT

New Hampshire is very much a battleground - it went to George Bush by 1% in 2000 and John Kerry by 1% in 2004.The polls are tight once again this year, but we have a very real opportunity to take away John McCain's hopes of winning New Hampshire by Getting Out The Vote and making sure every single supporter is going to the polls on Election Day.
We have come too far to let up now. If you don't have plans this weekend, or if you can rearrange them, we're asking again for you to come to New Hampshire.

We only have FOUR days left to elect Barack. We need to work as hard as we can this weekend.

Sign up to help with GOTV this weekend in New Hampshire. Every voter you talk to can make a real difference in this close race.If you don't have a ride, don't worry. We have a ride share website, NH.BarackObama.com/NHride that can help you find a ride with another supporter in your area.

"American Stories and American Promises"

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:05:57 EDT

Last night, the Obama campaign aired a 30 min special about American stories - stories like yours, of families talking around the dinner table about the tough choices they are facing and their dreams for the future. This country was formed by stories like these - parents who moved to get a better schools for their children, men and women who have to go back to work after retirement to support their families, and young people seeking to better their future through work and education.

Barack's message tonight speaks to these American stories, and to the commitment that he makes to all Americans to address these concerns.

In case you missed any part of it, or want to watch it again, or share this with your friends - you can watch Barack's message here:

The election ends in five days, and we need your help to get out the vote in New Hampshire. You can find a volunteer opportunity near you right now.

Final Women to Women Phonebank at State Headquarters

Bradley Portnoy — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 22:53:00 EDT

Volunteers gathered in the Providence office tonight for the final Women to Women Wednesday phonebank. Filling the entire state Democratic Party headquarters and two floors of a law office upstairs, they made thousdands of calls to other women in battleground states. With the election so close at hand, they were joined by a number of men, and the Lt. Governor, who dropped in and worked her way through two call packets.

Following the phonebank, the volunteers gathered to eat pizza and watch Barack's 30-minute message to America, and then got right back to work with another round of calls. Check out this slideshow from tonight:

Can you join us in one of our final five days of phonebanking? Please sign up for a Last Call for Change event, and help bring the change we need to Washington.

It's Time to Get Out The Vote

Bradley Portnoy — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:45:58 EDT

Change happens because the American people demand it. Because they rise up and insist on new leadership and new ideas, a new politics for a new time. - Sen. Barack Obama

Six days until the election - six days to join us in making history. This isn't the time to let up and rest on our laurels, it's the time to push forward to victory. This is what happens if we get complacent:

Don't let it happen. Sign up to help get out the vote in New Hampshire. It's the only state that was red in 2000 and blue in 2004, and both elections were decided by less than 10,000 votes. It's time to rise up and demand the change we need. Please sign up to get out the vote in New Hampshire.

Want more info? Visit NH.BarackObama.com. Need to share a ride to NH? Check out our ride share page.

Last Call: 8 Days

Bradley Portnoy — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:21:52 EDT

Nicole in Obama HQ sent out this message late last night...

Dear Bradley,

With just 8 days to go, we need to reach out to millions of voters in key battleground states -- and we can't reach them unless everyone pitches in.

Will you join fellow supporters at a Last Call for Change phonebank in your community?

Find an event near you and sign up to make a difference this week.

Thanks,

Nicole

Nicole Aro
National Phonebank Coordinator
Obama for America

P.S. -- You can start making calls right now from your home. Today John McCain is in Pennsylvania, which is his best path to victory. That's why we've set a goal of making 100,000 calls into Pennsylvania today. Get your list of voters right now:

http://my.barackobama.com/PAcalls

Drive for Change - Zach from Newport

Lucy in Rhode Island — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 22:06:37 EDT

Zach from Newport was really nervous about canvassing. He didn’t like the idea of ‘bothering’ people, he was kind of uncomfortable, and he hasn’t gotten up at 7:30 AM in a really long time. He didn’t let any of this stop him, though, and found that once he got started, he didn’t want to stop.

There’s nothing particularly invasive, inappropriate, or scary about canvassing. Your mere presence on the street in New Hampshire as a Barack Obama supporter is doing 95% of the work you need to do. You don’t encounter John McCain supporters because they’re not there, but you’re there. That makes all the difference for people: the fact that we were walking to all the households really connected to Democrats. They were assured of their vote, and I like to think that McCain supporters would rethink their vote because there’s no outreach from McCain supporters, and there’s outreach from Obama.

Zach has watched all the debates and closely followed the election in the news, but he began to feel that this wasn’t enough. There’s too much at stake, he feels, to not participate in a more meaningful capacity. Going canvassing was the natural next step. He loved seeing John Kerry speak from the bed of a pickup truck, but found that the canvassing itself wasn’t just rewarding, but inspiring.

One lesson I learned was not to judge a book by its cover. There was one house that had a bunch of pickup trucks, an American flag, and an NRA sticker on the window of the front door.

Zach’s photo of John Kerry came out brilliantly, he says, just like his day in New Hampshire. Join Zach and other Rhode Islanders in the drive for change.

Last Call for Change in Providence

Bradley Portnoy — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:26:38 EDT

There are only 8 days left until our chance to bring the change we need to Washington, and we have to make every second count. All week, volunteers will be manning the phones in Rhode Island headquarters, calling voters in New Hmapshire and Montana, two critical swing states.

It's essential that we have as many volunteers as possible making calls. Can you join us for one or more shifts? We'll provide you with a script to guide the conversation and a form to report data back to the campaign. If you've never phonebanked before, we'll even hold a quick training session.

If you can spare just a few hours, please sign up here to attend one of our Last Call for Change phonebanks this week. Please sign up for as many shifts as you can.

Rhode Island Call Challenge Update: 900 Calls to Go

Erik Weber — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:13:37 EDT

Last week, we challenged the Rhode Island Call Team to make 2,500 calls in seven days to help get out the vote in Pennsylvania. After five days, Rhode Island has made over 1,600 calls. It will take a stepped up effort to reach our goal by tomorrow night.

Your calls allow in-state staff and volunteers to focus on face-to-face, door-to-door voter contact. If everyone can find even an hour each night to make calls, Rhode Island could help make the difference in this historic election.

Kalman from Warwick, RI is leading the way by making over 244 calls in the last seven days. Now is the time to follow Kalman's example and make that extra effort during this final stretch.

The work we do in this final week will decide what direction we take this country in the next four years. Nine hundred calls to go . . .

Women to Women Wednesdays: Lydia from Providence

Alex @ NH HQ — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:41:00 EDT

For Lydia - 32, and a mother of three from Providence - sometimes an election is about more than the candidate, or even the voter for that matter. This year, the election is about family.

I'm an administrative assistant and I classify myself as middle-class. Barack's tax cuts are designed for people like me. Plus, with three children in the Providence school system, I know that public education will help shape their futures.

While she is motivated by the interests of the next generation, she is inspired by the one that came before. Her father, very active in politics throughout his life, urged Lydia and her sisters to take up a political cause. While they didn't heed his encouragement originally, everything changed when Barack announced his candidacy for president.

My father - who grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee - really influenced us. Before he passed away this past year, he told my sisters and I how astonished and proud he was to see something like this take place. In his lifetime, he got to see an African-American man nominated for President on a major-party ticket.

In commemoration of their father, Lydia and her family organized a political rally at a community center in Elmwood, their neighborhood. With both U.S. Senator Jack Reed and State Attorney General Patrick Lynch on hand to offer words of encouragement, Lydia and her neighbors canvassed throughout the community.

We wanted to persuade any undecided voters to vote for Barack and to encourage those who were already voting for him to get to the polls on Election Day. We let them know that their votes count!

This week, Lydia participated in a Women to Women Wednesday phone bank, when female volunteers call undecided female voters in New Hampshire in order to talk about the issues that matter most to them. With November 4th just around the corner, there's only one Wednesday left to participate in this all-important voter outreach effort.

New Hampshire will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this election. Even though the state has only four electoral votes, John McCain spent two days there last week. Like Lydia, we need to stay focused and give a little bit more of ourselves to make sure that the Granite State votes for change - click below to find a way to get involved in the final days of the campaign.

San Miguel Schoolchildren Visit RI Campaign Headquarters

Emilie in Rhode Island — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 18:18:55 EDT

Monday morning, four students from Providence's San Miguel School walked into the Obama RI State Headquarters on South Main Street for their very own press conference with RI Obama Campaign State Director, Ray Sullivan. Eager to get their questions about Obama's policies answered, the four students of Mr. Bower's 7th grade reading class had prepared questions for campaign staff, who were happy to meet them and talk about what it's like working for Senator Barack Obama.

Joined by their teacher and Mr. Speaks, the school's graduate support director, Victor and Tyrell, both 13, asked about the economy, education, taxes, and Senator Obama's priorities. Darryl and Kelvin, 12, also asked about Barack's policies and listened intently in the midst of the office's call center as their questions were answered.

One student asked, "If he's elected President, what would Barack Obama do first?"

None of the students had ever visited a campaign office before and said they were surprised to see that the office didn't resemble the corporate-style offices they see on television. The wide-open spaces, large tables, and bright signs on the walls created a communal atmosphere the boys had not expected.

"I knew there were going to be a lot of phones, though," said Victor, as he looked around the office, reading the volunteer-made posters and watching some members of staff at work on their computers.

In a letter to the campaign headquarters, Mr. Bowers said the students were "thrilled to have the chance to be a part of the whole election process" and to "get some of their fundamental questions answered."

The staff at the Rhode Island Obama headquarters could not have been more pleased to share Barack's message with four young supporters, who are now equipped to help spread Obama's message to their families, classmates, and friends in these crucial last two weeks!

You too can help spread Barack's message by making your own trip to our headquarters and participating in a Last Call for Change phone bank tonight.

Rhode Island Call Challenge Update: 2,200 Calls to Go

Erik Weber — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:07:20 EDT

On Wednesday, we challenged the Rhode Island Call Team to make 2,500 calls in seven days to help get out the vote in Pennsylvania. Your calls from out of state allow in-state staff and volunteers to focus on face-to-face, door-to-door voter contact.

So far, Rhode Island has made over 300 calls in two days. This is a good start, but we can't afford to let up now. As we head into the final week of this historic election, it's time to work together and push each other across the finish line at full speed.

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

You can listen to it below:

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

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

Barack Needs You in New Hampshire

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:30:52 EDT

Dear Anne Marie,

When I endorsed Barack last January, I was endorsing a candidate with the power to transform America.

Now it's less than two weeks until Election Day, and this movement has expanded beyond anything we could have imagined.

Hundreds of thousands have volunteered, and millions have registered to vote for the first time. Now we need to make sure that this incredible enthusiasm translates into votes.

I am reaching out to you today to ask you to do still more to change this country. The most important work over the next 11 days will be done by voters like you knocking on doors and reaching out to undecided voters in battleground states.

That's why I'm asking you to take the short trip to New Hampshire and make a difference in the final days of this campaign. To double your impact, bring a friend.

Our neighbor is once again a key battleground state. In 2000, Al Gore lost New Hampshire by just 7,000 votes. Four years later, John Kerry won by just 9,000.

It's going to be incredibly close this year, too. That's why I need you to help Barack.

The last few days before Election Day, November 4th, are the most crucial of the campaign. Barack is counting on supporters like us to make our get out the vote efforts as effective as possible.

Whatever you can do and however much time you can give, there's a job for you. We need people to canvass, make phone calls, help with visibility, and drive voters to the polls.

And given the rising negativity and attacks coming from the McCain campaign, it's more important than ever that New Hampshire voters learn more about Barack -- who he is and how he'll bring about the change we need.

Sign up now to spend a day in New Hampshire and volunteer in this crucial battleground:

http://my.barackobama.com/cometoNH

This campaign is about turning our backs on the politics of division, and returning to a politics that embraces hope and creates real change in our country and in our world.

Together I know we can help elect Barack Obama and bring the change we need.

Sincerely,

Senator Edward M. Kennedy

P.S. -- The best way to help out in New Hampshire is to call the Obama state hotline at (603) 657-4494 to schedule your trip and connect with other supporters in your area who are headed to New Hampshire. Check out NH.BarackObama.com if you have any questions.

Join Actor Jeffrey Wright in NH Tomorrow

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:49:37 EDT

Jeffrey Wright, an actor in films such as "W", Casino Royale, Syriana, Cadillac Records and The Manchurian Candidate, will be in Nashua and Manchester this Saturday, meeting Granite Staters to hear about the issues on their mind this election and speak about his support of Sen. Obama.

Wright is no stranger to politics. A native of our nation's capitol, Washington, D.C., Wright studied Political Science as well as acting while attending Amherst College.

Wright will encourage all eligible voters to participate in this historic election and bring about the change we need by voting for Barack Obama and Democrats up and down the ticket.

This is a great opportunity to get your friends who are undecided or unregistered involved in the political process. If you have time between knocking on doors and calling your neighbors this weekend, join us for a block party in Manchester or a meet and greet in Nashua this Saturday.

Join Actor Jeffrey Wright in Manchester
Block Party at City Hall Plaza
Food, Music, Canvassing and Fun
Starts at 10 a.m. RSVP at My.BarackObama.com

Join Actor Jeffrey Wright in Nashua
Meet and Greet Party at the Adult Learning Center, 4 Lake St.
Food, Music, Canvassing and Fun
Starts at 10 a.m. RSVP at My.BarackObama.com

Women to Women Wednesdays: Mimo from Providence

Alex @ NH HQ — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:41:15 EDT

With more than 30 volunteers around her busily phone banking at the Rhode Island campaign headquarters on South Main Street, Mimo, a 65-year old painter from Providence, hardly has the time to list all of the reasons she volunteers for Obama. But tonight, she and the rest of the women in the office are calling undecided female voters in New Hampshire as part of the weekly Women to Women phone bank in order to discuss some of the issues that they feel matter most.

Barack is a great candidate, and he's even greater because of Michelle. She is a really strong and wonderful woman and, together, I know they'll fight for women's rights.

But this isn't the only way in which Mimo volunteers her time. Her involvement began four years ago when Barack spoke at the Democratic National Convention in 2004. "I was totally in love," she confesses. After Barack came to speak in Roger Williams Park in 2007, she joined together with other committed Rhode Islanders in a number of ways. During the primary, she made calls and canvassed about once a week, and now Women to Women calling has become a staple of her Wednesdays. "My husband and I are spending the last four days before the election in New Hampshire to get out the vote too," she adds.

I volunteer so much of my time because Barack inspires hope in me for many things, but the war in Iraq really spurred me to get involved. With his strategy for Iraq, I think that he will improve how the rest of the world views our country. Barack understood that the war was wrong from the beginning.

But Mimo feels that the Bush Administration's disastrous policies in Iraq have negatively affected our position domestically as well as abroad.

We've been spending so much money on this war that could go to better things at home. I feel really strongly about making sure that every American has healthcare, and as an artist, I am happy that Barack will invest in education, particularly in the arts and music.

But all of the specific policies aside, for Mimo, the campaign still comes back to the message of Hope.

I was pretty young when John F. Kennedy was elected and I didn't really understand what it meant then, but I understand it now. Kennedy was important because of the way he made people feel about themselves and their country. I think that's what Barack brings to this. It's about hope and respecting each other.

You too can help share what inspires you with undecided voters on Women to Women Wednesdays or any other day of the week.

Rhode Island Call Team: Pennsylvania Needs Your Help

Erik Weber — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 01:03:27 EDT

With less than two weeks left in this election, one of the best ways supporters in Rhode Island can help is to make calls into the key battleground state of Pennsylvania.

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

In yesterday's GOTV strategy call with the Rhode Island Call Team, Pennsylvania's Field Director, Paulette Aniskoff, talked about the ground operation in Pennsylvania and explained why your calls are so essential for this campaign. Also, veteran caller Sue Shimer offered some helpful advice on making calls using the Neighbor to Neighbor tool.

The Rhode Island Call Team has set a goal to make at least 2,500 calls in the next seven days. This means we need everyone to step up their efforts and make a commitment to reaching out to as many voters as possible.

We'll be updating you on our progress here on the Rhode Island blog throughout the week. By working together, you can make a huge impact in Pennsylvania and bring Barack that much closer to victory on November 4th.

Volunteering for Change: Lynn from Warwick

Emilie in Rhode Island — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 10:07:46 EDT

Walk into the RI Obama Campaign Headquarters on any given weekday, and you'll likely find Lynn steadily at work entering results from the previous night's Call for Change into our voter databank. Lynn, a resident of Warwick, tears through sheet after sheet of data every time she's in the office, leaving the campaign staff scrambling to produce even more calls for her to enter.

Having never volunteered on a campaign in the past, this time Lynn felt compelled to get involved. To Lynn, Sen. Obama represented a true change from the way things have operated in politics in the past. Her concerns vary from the war in Iraq, to the looming Supreme Court appointments, to the breakdown of constitutional rights and civil liberties in our country. Lynn feels that Barack Obama as President would get our country back on track.

Years ago, it wasn't so desperate, but I've been extremely unhappy with the past eight years. I think the country really has to change and I'm a big believer that the country and the world needs Obama.

Shortly after the RI headquarters opened, Lynn and her husband participated in the Drive for Change New Hampshire canvass. On her second trip to New Hampshire, Lynn was inspired by the receptive voters she encountered and felt comfortable with her ability to persuade voters.

We went again and I found a tremendous difference in people's opinions. It was as good as could be!

Newly energized and ready to work, Lynn showed up to the RI headquarters and found another way she could contribute by helping with data management. She didn't feel comfortable on the phones, but that wasn't going to stop Lynn from making a difference. Since she's found her niche in the campaign office, Lynn has been a non-stop data machine and comes into the office four or more days a week. Lynn enjoys being a part of the Obama team and finds her fellow volunteers equally inspiring.

I'm going to go and do the most I can. Everyone's got their own capabilities. I really admire how people get on the phone and I'm amazed at all the volunteers up at the campaign office every day.

Despite initial jitters as a first-time campaign volunteer, Lynn knows that her hard work is an essential part of our movement. We always need more volunteers to enter data at headquarters; can you join us today and help with this essential task?

Drive for Change: Elizabeth in Providence

Lucy in Rhode Island — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 10:27:20 EDT

Elizabeth from Providence, 46, has always been eager to give back to her community. Working at the department of education, she’s certainly seen how the last four years have hurt this country. Now she’s even more concerned.

Everything is just incredibly tight. Everybody’s broke. I work with adults who are getting their GED and ESL and trying to get jobs, so I’m really, really worried about them. It’s going to be a really hard winter, and they’re going to be broke and in trouble.

In addition to her admirable concern for her students, Elizabeth is beginning to feel effects of the economic crisis herself, especially while facing college tuition for her one son next year.

Definitely financing college will be more difficult than it would be. My helping him pay for college is going to be tough.

Elizabeth has never worked for or donated to a campaign before, but this year she was inspired to travel to New Hampshire to canvass. She’s seen Michelle and Barack speak, and despite the depressing state of the country at the moment, she can really feel hope for the next four years.

We really need a huge change. I think that Senator Obama presents new ideas and a new possibility, and I’m excited that a lot of young people are very charged about the election. It’s a very exciting and hopeful time. I couldn’t wake up November 5th and think that I hadn’t done everything I could. I had to make sure I was involved.

You can join Elizabeth and help keep New Hampshire blue. Sign up to Drive for Change today - there are only 15 days left.

Drive for Change: Nashua, NH with Sen. John Kerry

Bradley Portnoy — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 19:58:00 EDT

It was a crisp New England morning in the parking lot of Hope High School, where nearly 200 volunteers met before sunrise to travel to New Hampshire. Spirits were high -- they knew that with only 17 days to go until the election, every hour counts in the battle to keep New Hampshire blue. Chaz traveled to Rhode Island from Mystic, Connecticut on the advice of a good friend.

I wanted to be part of the team - to help get out the vote for Barack because I know that New Hampshire is a crucial state.

Chaz was joined by Danielle, the co-president of the Salve Regina Democrats, and a native of Warwick, Rhode Island. After starting Salve's chapter of the college Democrats last Spring, she knew that it was important for them to come out and work for the change we need in New Hampshire.

We know that Rhode Island is a blue state, and we know that New Hampshire is at stake. We had a bunch of us that had fire in our bellies, and said let's go up there and make a difference. We've been really fired up coming in this year, having Barack as our nominee and being able to do things like this.

After spending the morning knocking on thousands of doors, the Rhode Island volunteers met up with volunteers from across the Northeast at the Nashua field office to hear some words from Congressman Paul Hodes and Senator John Kerry.

Congressman Hodes spoke to the crowd about the importance of canvassing: "Every single contact that you have will make the difference in this race...we're counting on you to help turn America around." Senator Kerry spoke about the power of persuasion that person to person contact carries.

We need every single one of you to use every ounce of your persuasive power...when you do, you're going to make the difference of a lifetime. Let's go out and make the difference.

The volunteers then headed back out into the field -- they're only just now returning from their second round of canvassing. There are 17 days left before election day, and our battleground is expanding across the country. Even if you don't live in a battleground state, there's one within driving distance. Sign up today to drive for change to a nearby state - every single volunteer makes a difference.

17 Days out: Join John Kerry to Campaign for Obama in NH

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 14:31:25 EDT

What are you doing this weekend? Can you join Sen. John Kerry at a canvass kickoff in Nashua or Manchester? Here are the details:

Kerry Will Denounce McCain Campaign Smear Tactics; Discuss Sen. Obama's Judgment and Plan to Bring Change to Washington

MANCHESTER-- With less than 20 days left until Election Day, U.S. Senator John Kerry will travel to New Hampshire this Saturday, October 18th to reach out to Granite State voters about the Obama-Biden plan to bring change to Washington. As someone who experienced firsthand the Republican smear tactics that were used with voters during the 2004 presidential election, Sen. Kerry will discuss Sen. McCain's decision to mislead voters with vicious and false information instead of address the real issues impacting American families. Kerry will be in Nashua and Manchester.

"The phone calls that Sen. McCain is using in the Granite State and across the country to scare voters and spread misinformation about Sen. Obama are incredibly offensive and demonstrate McCain's desperate attempt to distract from the economy," said Sandra Abrevaya, New Hampshire Communications Director. "We're thrilled that Sen. Kerry will be in the state this weekend to combat these false claims about Sen. Obama and discuss why Sen. McCain represents more of the same failed Republican leadership.

CANVASS EVENT with John Kerry IN NASHUA

SATURDAY, October 18 at 1:30 pm

306 AMHERST ST.

NASHUA, NH

VETERANS TO VETERANS VOTER CONTACT EVENT with John Kerry IN MANCHESTER

SATURDAY, October 18 at 3 pm

359 ELM ST.

MANCHESTER, NH

Join John Kerry this weekend and drive for change in NH.

You can also help us to fight against smear campaign tactics. To report a robo call and help the campaign respond to these desperate attacks faster please visit www.fightthesmears.com/report.

From Barack: Why New Hampshire Needs YOU

Anne Marie @ NH HQ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 20:09:48 EDT

Barack drew thousands of people to Mack's Apple's today in Londonderry, NH to listen to him speak about the Obama-Biden plan for change, the day after the final presidential debate. He spoke of the dire need for change in this country, and why we must keep fighting to make this change happen.

Well, New Hampshire, last night we had a debate. I think you saw a bit of the McCain attack strategy in action. But here's what Senator McCain doesn't seem to understand. With the economy in turmoil and the American Dream at risk, the American people don't want to hear politicians attack each other - you want to hear about how we're going to attack the challenges facing middle class families each and every day. You want to hear about the issues that matter in your lives. You want to hear about how we're going to bring about the change that we desperately need for our country. That's what the American people want to hear.

Barack spoke to the serious concerns of voters - addressing the economic crisis, creating jobs for the American middle class, fighting for families and working tirelessly for you in Washington.

John McCain thinks this campaign is all about me - but the truth is, this campaign is about you. Your jobs. Your health care. Your retirement. Your children's future. That's what this election is about. That's what I'm fighting for. Because I can take 3 more weeks of these attacks from John McCain, but the American people can't take four more years of the same failed policies and the same divisive politics.

New Hampshire, we are 19 days away from changing this country. But for those of you who are getting a little cocky I have two words for you: New Hampshire. I learned right here that you can't let up or pay too much attention to the polls. We've got to keep making our case for change; we've got to keep fighting for every vote; we've got to keep running through that finish line. This election is too important to take anything for granted. The future that you and I seek for our children is too important to let up now. The time for change has come.

We need you to help us win New Hampshire. Can you sign up today to join Barack Obama to fight for every vote, every step of the way? Sign up now to help win NH for Obama-Biden and our democratic candidates. If you already signed up and you need a ride, find one here.

Let's make change happen.

Drive for Change: Michele from Cranston

Alex @ NH HQ — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 17:49:38 EDT

Michele, 48, from Cranston has not always been a Democrat, nor has she always been very political. But over the past seven years, this self-described “Michele Six-Pack” watched as her economic situation weakened. During that time, she worked in several positions for the State of Rhode Island, none of which offered her health benefits – even the Department of Health! Currently employed as a librarian at CCRI, she is worried about her job stability in a worsening economy. As a working mother, she always found jobs with benefits. Now, she wonders where those jobs have gone.

This is the only election I have ever participated in because things have changed. When Barack talks about working mothers without health care, I’m the person he’s talking about. A lot of people in this country don’t take elections personally, but I don’t have that option.

Michele is concerned by what she sees as the widening gap between the promises of the American Dream and our country’s worsening healthcare and education systems. “Is this the best we can do?” she wonders. Frustrated with the country’s direction, Michele decided to take a stand in our political system. She recalls the moment when she first saw Barack give a speech on television after he announced his candidacy in 2007:

I was never really excited by a candidate in the past. But that changed when I saw Barack Obama. When it comes down to the future of our country, this is the guy I want to represent me and other Americans. Right then, I told myself: If I don’t get involved and he doesn’t win, then it will be my responsibility.

Since then, Michele has taken a stake in Barack’s campaign for change. She has gone to organizing meetings, made contributions, and, most recently, reached out to crucial undecided voters by canvassing for change in New Hampshire. She has even taken the campaign into her own living room, spreading Barack’s message to her four children, one of whom is currently serving in the military.

My youngest son has never voted. But when he took me out for dinner on my birthday last year, I snatched the menu out of his hands and replaced it with a voter registration card. I said, ‘You can’t order until you take this election seriously.’ Since then, he has been blogging about Obama on his Facebook page and helping his friends register to vote.

Michele understands that Barack has built his candidacy on improving the lives of the middle-class, and she has given a tremendous amount to make that vision a reality. With less than four weeks left, will you do the same? Sign up now to phone bank or canvass like Michele.

Drive for Change: Hilary and David from Newport

Simon in Rhode Island — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 01:03:08 EDT

For Hilary, a 63 year old web designer from Newport, and her husband David, 66, the fact that this is their first time getting involved in a campaign hasn't stopped them from going above and beyond to work for change. Together they've travelled all around the East Coast to canvass for Barack Obama: "We've been canvassing in New Hampshire, Virginia, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Boston. It's so inspiring. There's a wonderful feeling of doing something worthwhile."

Hilary and David were in Chicago in 2004 when Barack was elected to the US Senate. Even then, their experiences there revealed what sets this campaign apart four years later.

On the front page of the Chicago newspaper, there was this picture of Obama and his family in a snowstorm of confetti. It was beautiful. The headline was "Mr. Obama Goes to Washington." There was a magical quality in their faces, and you know what that was? It was hope.

In all the states where Hilary and David have worked, canvassing has been a powerful reminder of the inspiration that they felt in 2004. The people they've met and the stories they've gained along the way keep them coming back each weekend.

In New Hampshire, that's when I knew there was something very special about this campaign. I walked into the office and the people there were from everywhere. I couldn't believe it. This kid came in; he had driven all the way from Iowa. He had heard Obama's speech in Iowa after the caucuses.

People from all over the country are coming together with Hilary and David to make sure that they don't wake up on November 5th wishing they had done more. Join them and sign up to Drive for Change to New Hampshire.

Drive For Change: Joanie from Cumberland

Lucy in Rhode Island — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 18:46:31 EDT

Joanie from Cumberland is 69, has grandchildren and two grown sons, and is about to start working again. Her whole life, she's beem dedicated to hard work and teaching her family about the values that are important to her. That's why she likes what she sees in Barack: "He’s very eloquent, he’s dignified and smart, he’s truthful, he’s a good family man and he had to work hard to get where he is – I don’t think it was easy for him."

Joanie traveled to New Hampshire two weeks ago to canvass for Senator Obama, concerned for her sake and her family’s about the way the country is heading.

I wanted to do something to put my thoughts into actions, and walk the talk. We need to change direction in this country. I’ve been very concerned about how America is perceived abroad – a lot needs to be done in our relationships with other countries. Global warming also concerns me a great deal, and is not currently getting enough attention.

Learning about the current financial crisis and John McCain's alarming health care plan, Joanie isn't sure how she'll be able to make it if Barack's real change doesn't come to Washington.

My savings for ‘old age’ have really gone down the tank. If things get really bad, my sons’ jobs could be affected; I’m sure they’re currently spending more money on groceries and fuel than they used to. I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have that healthcare. I’m under Medicare, but I still pay for it, money comes out of my social security check and I pay for supplemental insurance.

Joanie certainly knows how to, as she puts it, put her money where her mouth is. This year she joined our movement by making her first ever donation to a political campaign. She hasn't stopped there: going canvassing in New Hampshire is Joanie's way of taking the campaign into her own hands, to make sure that she doesn't ahve any regrets on November 5th. Join Joanie today: sign up to help Barack by taking a trip to New Hampshire.

Don't wait a minute longer

Bradley Portnoy — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:33:34 EDT

Michelle just sent out this e-mail...

Bradley --

For the past 20 months, I've traveled to every corner of the country -- hearing from supporters about all the hard work they're doing to share Barack's vision of change with their families, neighbors, and friends.

It's easier than ever to reach out to folks in your community, and to talk to them about the stakes in this election -- and about how important it is that they make their voices heard on Election Day.

The Obama campaign will provide you with a list of folks in battleground states, and you can knock on doors or make phone calls to talk about why this election is important, and why every single vote matters.

Many of our supporters have already done this kind of voter outreach. Here's what they're saying about the experience:

Richard in Platte City, MO, wrote:

"Rebecca and I were able to get a list of 25 voters less than a mile from our home. It came complete with a script... We all know that Obama will win this election one vote at a time."

Cheryl in Naples, FL, said:

"It's fantastic to be able to do this important work on your own time and even in short bursts. It was so simple. I was amazed."

Nothing has a more powerful impact on voters than hearing from passionate supporters like you.

Click here to get your list of voters to canvass or call in your community. Join Richard, Cheryl, and many more supporters at this crucial time.

Election Day is just 30 days away, and early voting has already started in eight states. A dozen more states will start voting in the next two weeks.

Voters are making up their minds right now about who to support in this election.

Will you talk to voters in your community about Barack and his message of change?

Get a list of potential supporters in your community to contact, and we'll walk you through what to do next:

http://my.barackobama.com/n2n

Thank you so much for your support of this campaign. We could never have come this far without you. Now, let's work together all the way through Election Day to bring the change our country needs.

Michelle

Call for Change: MaryJane from Cranston

Emilie in Rhode Island — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:11:18 EDT

MaryJane is not your average Obama supporter. Even though debilitating medical condition has left MaryJane in a wheelchair, her sharp mind and spirit of volunteerism are strong as ever. She decided to get involved in the campaign as much as she can, and has been spending her time making calls at Rhode Island HQ.

I really believe that things could be better in our country. I believe in Obama's message of change and that he's going to be the change that we need.

As a former supporter of Hillary Clinton, Maryjane has enthusiastically thrown her support behind Barack. She understands the urgency of our nation's issues at hand and she is confident that he's the candidate who will get our national agenda back on track and working for those who need our government the most.

There are too many things going wrong in this country. Here's our chance to take it. We have to take action now because people like me can't afford to live like this anymore.

Despite such personal hardships MaryJane is making her voice heard by participating in the Phone Bank for Change program for Barack Obama. You too can add your voice to our grassroots movement through our Neighbor to Neighbor tool. We'll give you a list of voters and a script to guide the conversation. Click here to start making calls now.

Now Or Never in Rhode Island

Bradley Portnoy — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 12:50:25 EDT

Barack just sent out this e-mail...

Bradley --

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

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

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

Make sure you're registered.

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

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

Thanks,

Barack

P.S. -- Please forward this email to your friends, family, and neighbors and make sure they register today.

Visit: RI.BarackObama.com | Email: RhodeIsland@BarackObama.com

Drive for Change: Bill from Middletown

Alex @ NH HQ — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:14:26 EDT

Bill certainly knows a thing or two about caring about people. A 64-year old social worker from Middletown, RI, he has dedicated his professional life to helping Rhode Islanders with physical and mental disabilities. He sees his own dedication reflected in the commitment Barack has made to struggling Americans in both his public and private life.

Barack represents a lot of the basic values that I find important. He’s committed to caring about vulnerable people like children and the poor. He’s committed to all citizens of our country, even those who face prejudices and biases.

Twice during September, Bill traveled to New Hampshire to help spread Barack’s message of a better future for all Americans – the vision he has worked for right here in his community. Canvassing helped Bill see how Barack’s message of inclusion has inspired all types of people, bringing them together through their shared values. On September 21st, he joined a diverse caravan of Rhode Islanders on their trip to the Granite State. The group of supporters mixed older Americans, like himself, with a lot of dedicated young people.

It’s important that more mature people, like I am, reach out to the younger people, and vice versa, so that they can share their ideas and their experiences and learn from one another.

With Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Roberts leading the charge that day, Bill saw how Barack has brought together not only young and old, but also average citizens and prominent elected officials. Roberts walked the streets of Nashua with Bill and his fellow volunteers for around five hours, knocking on doors and talking to local residents about the issues confronting their families and their communities.

After our hard, but rewarding, day of canvassing in New Hampshire, all the volunteers agreed that we had produced a positive impact.

Rhode Islanders of all stripes are joining Bill and others like him to make sure that we win in New Hampshire. Sign up to Drive for Change and make a difference in your nearest battleground state today.

Drive for Change: Leah from Barrington

Simon in Rhode Island — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 22:37:08 EDT

This campaign has always attracted volunteers from all walks of life, and for Leah, a 57-year-old nonprofit professional from Barrington, that was one of the best parts of joining the Rhode Island campaign for a day of canvassing in New Hampshire.

Because it appears to be a close race and because I really want to see change happen, I've been paying close attention to New Hampshire. My friend and I decided we were going to canvass. When I volunteered, I found a very diverse group of people. We had another woman with us who's 78 years old. The seniors we talked to enjoyed seeing older women knocking on doors, and we really enjoyed it too.

Leah saw Senator Obama for the first time when he spoke at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, and she's been a committed supporter ever since. When he came to Rhode Island, she jumped at the chance to see him in person.

In 2006 Barack came to Roger Williams Park to campaign for Sheldon Whitehouse. My friend and I went down to see him. I came home and told my husband that I had just seen the next President of the United States.

For Leah, and countless other Americans, the stakes of this election are higher than ever and there are so many reasons to get involved.

You could say that I feel committed to having a better future. I'm a brand new grandparent. I'd like to see my grandson grow up in a better world, a better one than we've had.

Our campaign depends on the help of volunteers to make a difference in this election. Join Leah in her effort to win a better future and sign up to Drive for Change to New Hampshire.

Help Barack -- Take A Trip to New Hampshire

Bradley Portnoy — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:38:33 EDT

Our New Hampshire Field Director just sent out this message...

Dear Bradley,

Saturday marks exactly one month until Election Day. That's not a lot of time.

You live near a crucial battleground state -- New Hampshire -- where supporters from neighboring states are playing a huge role in helping to put Barack Obama and Joe Biden over the top.

This weekend, we're organizing teams of supporters from across the northeast to come to New Hampshire for our Drive for Change weekend canvass.

Sign up to come to New Hampshire and help Barack and all Democrats up and down the ticket.

New Hampshire has been decided by fewer than 10,000 votes in each of the last two presidential elections, and it was the only state in the country that voted for the Republican candidate in 2000, but the Democratic candidate in 2004.

Since 2000, thousands of new voters have moved to New Hampshire and time is running out to reach them before November 4th.

Undecided Granite Staters need to hear Barack's message on how he will fix the economy, and we are depending on you to tell them Obama-Biden is the right choice in this election.

Join us and Drive for Change to help make a huge difference in New Hampshire:

http://my.barackobama.com/CometoNH

No prior experience is required. Staff will provide you with everything you need.

We can't do this without you.

Thanks,

Katina Tsongas
Field Director
New Hampshire Campaign for Change

P.S. -- Want to meet fellow supporters and save gas? Sign up to carpool to New Hampshire and organize your ride:

http://my.barackobama.com/NHride

Drive for Change: Ed from Barrington

Emilie in Rhode Island — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:22:33 EDT

This past weekend, young activists from across Rhode Island came together to go canvassing in New Hampshire, an effort organized by the Rhode Island Campaign Headquarters. Among them was Ed, a 23-year-old entrepreneur from Barrington.

Ed is an active member of the First Unitarian Church in Providence, and has previously participated in the Phone Bank for Change program during the primary campaign in Pennsylvania. Until Saturday, he had never gone canvassing before.

My coworkers and I spend so much time during the workday reading articles and election polls, so we thought instead of just talking about it - let's do something about it!

Once Ed and his coworker heard about the canvassing trip leaving from Hope High school every Saturday morning, they showed up with their car and headed up to New Hampshire with a carload of fellow young Rhode Island canvassers.

We had a really good experience. I talked to some people who were on the fence and we feel like we made a really positive impact. I made my first contribution when I got home on Saturday. When you're actually on the ground, you see what your money goes to, and how it makes an impact. It makes you want to contribute.

Like never before, this campaign is inspiring people like Ed to take our nation's future into their own hands and get involved.

I have many friends who aren't really engaged, aren't really interested. But Barack Obama is getting young people to pay attention and be involved again in a way we just haven't in a while.

Barack needs this kind of grassroots support to win in November. Our campaign is built upon the strength of our volunteer base and you can become a part of our movement today. Join your fellow Rhode Islanders like like Ed and sign up to Drive for Change to New Hampshire.

Register to Vote Before It's Too Late

Bradley Portnoy — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 16:41:14 EDT

Barack just sent out this e-mail...

Bradley --

The last day to register to vote in Rhode Island is this Saturday, October 4th.

Are you registered? Are your friends and family? If you only forward one email to your friends, family, and neighbors today -- make it this one.

Each and every vote in Rhode Island is absolutely crucial to victory on Election Day.

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

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

But in just six days, the time for bringing new voices into the political process will be over.

You need to be certain that you, your friends, and your family are registered by the deadline -- it's a small step that will have a huge impact on our Election Day results.

This election is too important to leave anything to chance. Make sure your voice is heard -- and forward this email to all the Rhode Islanders you know.

Thanks,

Barack

RI HQ Opening: "We're gong to send ripples of Hope up to New Hampshire!"

Bradley Portnoy — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:28:56 EDT

Last night, over 500 supporters turned out for the opening of the campaign's Rhode Island Headquarters. Office openings are usually small affairs - supporters from the community as well as a few local officials. But yesterday, Rhode Islanders blew expectations out of the water, forcing the rally to be moved outside along the banks of the Providence River.

The supporters were joined by Senator Whitehouse, as well as Reps. Kennedy and Langevin. Speaking about Rhode Island's role in the election, Senator Whitehouse quoted Robert Kennedy in asking them to "send ripples of Hope up to New Hampshire!"

Neile came to the rally with her husband Fred and young son Keith, with whom she was 8 months pregnant the first time she went to see Senator Obama speak in February of 2007. Keith is one of the children Barack is talking about when he says that there are children walking and talking who hadn't been born when this race started. Now, with only 45 days left until the election, Neile knows that it's time to pull out all the stops to win the election

I believe that every single one of us needs to be a part of this change, by actually strapping on the boots, hitting the pavement, knocking on doors - helping any way we can.

Fred is still undecided, but Neile is hoping that bringing him to more events like this will swing his vote by election day.

Bela has been volunteering with the campaign, making calls at the office with her daughter, even as she looks for work. She's also been a frequent donor, and is looking forward to getting involved in other ways.

I think I'm going to go to the Rhode Island camp Obama. We need to really keep it positive. I try to stay in touch with the campaign, it's so important...I've been praying on it, been speaking out.

Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts was also on hand to kick off a weekend of action with Rhode Island Women. Roberts will be leading a caravan of volunteers to New Hampshire on Sunday morning – you can sign up here to come along.

Even though last night's rally was a huge success, it'll all be for nothing if we don't turn that success into action. Camp Obama is coming to Rhode Island - sign up now to be fully trained as a Deputy Field Organizer. We'll deploy you to a battleground state, where you can help ensure Barack's victory on November 4th.

Not convinced? Check out these photos from last night, and stay tuned to RI.BarackObama.com. We're going to bring you constant updates until election day to let you know how you can get involved.

One hour from now...

Bradley Portnoy — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:59:06 EDT

In just an hour, this podium will play host to the entire Rhode Island congressional delegation as well as the Lieutenant Governor. They're coming to officially open the Rhode Island state headquarters, and get our supporters fired up. We're expecting several people - come and join in. We'll be making announcements about how you can get involved and make sure that 46 days from now, we're holding another celebration.

The rally is going to be on the shores of the Providence River at 321 South Main in Providence. It all starts at 6:00 PM.

Baracking the Mic

Bradley Portnoy — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 12:15:58 EDT

Last night, the Brown University chapter of Students for Barack Obama put on their second annual "Barack the Mic" event at a local coffee shop. About 75 students and members of the community filled Blue State Coffee on Thayer St. in Providence to listen to musical performances, slam poetry, and personal stories. Everyone who came was asked to volunteer to canvass in New Hampshire before the election. Check out these photos:

Tonight, join hundreds of other Rhode Islanders at the official opening of the Rhode Island State Headquarters. We're expecting a huge turnout - so big that we've had to move the rally outside. It all kicks off at 6 PM at 321 South Main in Providence. Visit the official event page for details and to RSVP.

Drive for Change: 4,000 Doors

Bradley Portnoy — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 22:16:50 EDT

Today, 100 volunteers from Rhode Island knocked on 4,000 doors in New Hampshire. That's 4,000 flyers passed out and 4,000 opportunities to turn an undecided voter into an Obama supporter.

Anne from Providence started out the day with some misses: Most of the people that she was looking for weren't home, but by the end of the day, she felt like she'd really accomplished something.

It just turned out great at the end. We met fifteen or twenty undecided voters who heard what we had to say about Barack Obama and the change he's going to bring. It was worth it.

All the Rhode Islanders are back safe in Providence, but they're fired up to go back to New Hampshire as many times as it takes to make sure we win. Check out these photos from the day, and then make sure you take action to work towards victory. There are only 51 days left.

If you live in a state near New Hampshire, sign up to join a Drive for Change caravan. If you're not in the Northeast, you can visit your state page and find ways to get involved in your community.

Drive for Change in Nashua, NH: A Full Day's Work

Bradley Portnoy — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 17:38:08 EDT

A day that started out with rain is ending with the sun peeking through the clouds here in Nashua. After a long day of canvassing, the Rhode Island volunteers are beginning to stream back into the field office, and the buses are humming outside, ready to take them home.

With over 100 volunteers who made the trip, people all around Nashua got to hear Barack's message of change today. One volunteer from Pawtucket, Matt, knocked on almost 130 doors.

Just from being out there, I think the message of someone taking the time and energy to campaign makes a difference. There were some voters that were undecided, and I think I managed to build a rapport with them.

Judy and Elizabeth also had a good experience in the field today. Both from Providence, they saw a great opportunity to correct some of the false impressions that people have of Senator Obama. Judy canvassed undecided voters and was glad to find that people were receptive to what she had to say.

I do believe that I changed some minds. People who were open to listening seemed willing to hear about the issues. A lot of them didn't know about Senator Obama's wonderful economic policies, and I was excited to be able to tell them about his economic plan. There were a couple of people who started out ambivalent about him, but I think I got out the facts they needed to hear

Today's volunteers may be on their way back to Rhode Island, but more will be coming to New Hampshire every day until the election. With only 51 days left, they know that there isn't a moment to waste. If you live near New Hampshire, sign up to join a Drive for Change caravan. If you're not in the Northeast, you can visit your state page and find ways to get involved near your home. From Rhode Island? Make sure to keep your eye on the Rhode Island blog for updates from state headquarters.

Drive for Change: Senators Whitehouse and Leahy Fire Up the Volunteers

Bradley Portnoy — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 13:55:49 EDT

Joining the Rhode Islanders on the bus to Nashua was Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, who addressed the volunteers in both the Nashua and Manchester offices. He joined the caravan early in the day, with doughnuts and coffee for everyone. After a brief speech in Providence, he settled in with the other volunteers for the trip to New Hampshire.

After the Nashua crowd was trained on canvassing techniques how to best connect with voters, Senator Whitehouse stepped in to get them fired up.

Four more years of these policies, and I'm not sure what it'll take to bring our country back. We can't afford Republicans even when they pretend to be moderate. But we've never had a more inspiring candidate. We've got a lot to be proud of in Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

In the Manchester office, a crowd of volunteers converged from Vermont, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts to join local residents in another canvass. Senator Whitehouse was joined by Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont, where they again spoke to the assembled volunteers.

Anna, Betsy, and Kevin carpooled in from Boston. A few hours ago they were strangers, but now Kevin says they're fast friends.

We just met today, at 10:30 AM, before we left. We just went online, looked up events, and saw this one... I wanted to do a lot of work for the campaign to make sure that New Hampshire goes Democratic.

Anna was an Organizing Fellow in Iowa this summer, but recently moved to Boston.

I just moved here and hadn't really done anything with the campaign since July, and was in a new place and wanted to meet some new people. There's so little time left. I really love meeting people by knocking on their doors. There's nothing like it.

The New Hampshire office is always looking for more volunteers - if you live in a nearby state, sign up to join a Drive for Change caravan. If you're not in the Northeast, you can visit your state page and find ways to get involved in your community. From Rhode Island? Make sure to keep your eye on the Rhode Island blog for updates from state headquarters.

Drive for Change: Rainy Morning in Nashua, NH

Bradley Portnoy — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 12:16:22 EDT

Waking up at 7 AM on a Sunday morning isn't easy under the best of circumstances. Waking up at 7 AM on a Sunday morning to get on a bus for an hour and a half drive to Nashua, New Hampshire for a full day of canvassing in the rain would daunt most people. But for the hundred Rhode Islanders who filled two buses and a handful of cars this morning, the chance to help bring real change to America trumped the gloomy skies.

One benefit of having offices open across the country is that the campaign can organize events such as today's New Hampshire Drive for Change. Like never before, voters in every state are having a real impact on the election, and it's work like this - volunteers canvassing no matter what the weather - that's going to make the difference in November.

Nick and Lisa came from Portsmouth and Providence to meet up with the caravan early. This is Lisa's first trip to New Hampshire, but Nick is a seasoned canvassing veteran.

I went canvassing last weekend as well... It was great. I met a lot of undecided voters, and my group ended up knocking on about 130 doors in Nashua. We talked about economic policy and how Barack Obama and Joe Biden will really benefit the middle class and set some people straight on the candidates' tax proposals.

Lisa knows full well how the economy is affecting people: she was laid off from her job this past week. "I knew they were making cutbacks but I'd expected to stay on...I was planning to come to Nashua anyway, but now I see that it's even more important than I thought."

Carl and Cynthia from Barrington also joined the caravan this morning. Cynthia feels what Barack calls "the fierce urgency of now," and is eager to work to make change.

This is perhaps one of the most important elections in American history. It's a privilege and a responsibility to be living in this important time and to be able to chip in and make a difference. Elections are won with this kind of on-the-ground type of activity, people who are willing to volunteer and put their time forward. It's really critical for the campaign.

The volunteers are going to be canvassing voters in Nashua all day, and there's a lot more going on. Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse joined the caravan, and Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy brought in volunteers from his home state as well. We'll be bringing you more news from the trip throughout the day.

If you live near New Hampshire, sign up today to join a Drive for Change. Groups will be canvassing every day between now and the election. Don't live nearby? Sign up to volunteer in your state.

Sunday: Join Senator Whitehouse and Walk for Change

Erik Weber — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 15:40:33 EDT

The following email just went out to Rhode Island supporters about an exciting event happening this Sunday.

On Sunday, September 14th, please join U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse for a Walk for Change canvass in New Hampshire.
Hear from Senator Whitehouse, meet fellow supporters, and help spread Barack's message of change to undecided voters.
Here are the details:
Walk For Change
with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse
324 Hope Street
Providence, RI
Sunday, September 14th
Meet: 8:30 a.m.

Vote For Change

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

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

As deputy campaign manager Steve Hildebrand told the Boston Globe:

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

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

Brown Students for Barack Obama Kickoff Meeting

Bradley Portnoy — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:54:16 EDT

Last night the Brown University chapter of Students for Barack Obama held its kickoff meeting for the school year. Over 250 students from towns and cities across the country filled one of the largest auditoriums on campus to capacity. Max, the chapter president, was happy not just about the number of people that showed up but also with their enthusiasm.

I was extremely impressed. Our facebook event for the meeting had maybe half the number of people RSVPed as we turned out. We signed up fifty more people for our listserv last night, and we had a lot of enthusiasm -- a lot of people really looking forward to getting involved and doing their part.

Max and the other chapter leaders are eager to help bring about change, and they're getting organized to do it. Every weekend between now and Election Day they'll be carpooling to New Hampshire to canvass.

For the next 55 days we're going to be working as much as possible. We're going to be having phonebanks almost every day at the campaign office but also some on-campus phonebanks coordinated by student volunteers. We're going to be spending as much time as we can canvassing in New Hampshire on the weekends. We'll be having debate-watch events to get excited and watch Barack in the debates, and next week we're having an open mic event at a local coffee shop, which is a way for artists, musicians, and poets to express their feelings about the race and get people excited.

Check out these photos from last night.

Brown's chapter is just one of hundreds of Students for Barack Obama chapters around the country. Use this page to find a chapter at your school. You can also sign up to receive SFBO updates.

Want to join the effort to win New Hampshire? Sign up to travel to New Hampshire and help canvass. If you're in Rhode Island, make sure to read the Rhode Island page every day to keep up to date with the latest ways you can help the campaign.

Rhode Island: Polls Open Until 9:00 p.m. EST

Christopher Hass — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:59:35 EST

If you live in Rhode Island, polls are still open until 9:00 PM tonight, and anyone in line at 9:00 PM will be allowed to vote. If you have yet to vote today, there is still time for you to add your voice to the millions of people calling for change.

No matter where you are, you can help out by making calls for this final stretch tonight! Grab a phone – what we do tonight will make a difference.

Rhode Island Polling Hours:

All polls are open until 9:00pm. Voters in line by 9:00pm must be permitted to vote. See the "FAQ" link below for specific town polling hours.

If you believe you were left off the voter list or otherwise prevented from regular voting by error, you must be allowed to cast a provisional ballot.

Identification Requirements:

No identification is required at the polling place unless you are a first-time voter who registered by mail and did not provide identification at that time. If this is the case, you must bring one of the following: a valid Rhode Island driver’s license, Rhode Island ID, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check or another government document.

Rhode Island Primary Update

Christopher Hass — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 15:15:18 EST

I just wanted to send a quick update and let you know that we're seeing record turnout across Rhode Island right now.

This race is going to be close, and we need every vote we can get. Make sure you vote today and bring your friends, family, and neighbors with you to the polls.

Rhode Island's polls are open until 9:00 p.m., and if you are in line by 9:00 p.m. you have the right to vote.

Here are a few details and rules to make sure everything goes smoothly for you today at the polls:

All polls stay open until 9:00 p.m. If you are in line at 9:00 p.m., you must be allowed to vote.
If you believe you were left off the voter list or otherwise prevented from regular voting by error, you must be allowed to cast a provisional ballot.
No identification is required at the polling place unless you are a first-time voter who registered by mail and did not provide identification at that time. If this is the case, you must bring one of the following; a valid Rhode Island driver's license, Rhode Island ID, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check or another government document.

Make your support count. Get out to vote today.

Thank you,

Mike

Mike Dorsey
Rhode Island State Director
Obama for America

Rhode Island: Our Moment Is Now

Christopher Hass — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 06:40:16 EST

This morning, all across the state Rhode Islanders are heading to the polls to stand for change. Polling places are open until 9:00 p.m. tonight. This is your chance to join millions of other who are calling for a new direction, and a new kind of politics.

Today's election is going to be close, and every vote counts. Take a moment to call or email your friends and family and let them know why you support Barack, and how important it is for them to go to the polls today as well.

From the beginning, the backbone of this campaign has been ordinary people reaching out to talk to family, friends, and neighbors – one person at a time. What we do today will make a difference.

This is our moment. This is our chance to make history.

RHODE ISLAND VOTER INFO:

Polling hours vary by city, but open as early as 7:00 a.m. and no later than 9:00 a.m. All polls stay open until 9:00 p.m. If you are in line at 9:00 p.m., you must be allowed to vote.
If you believe you were left off the voter list or otherwise prevented from regular voting by error, you must be allowed to cast a provisional ballot.
No identification is required at the polling place unless you are a first-time voter who registered by mail and did not provide identification at that time. If this is the case, you must bring one of the following: a valid Rhode Island driver's license, Rhode Island ID, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check, or another government document.

'Race narrows in Rhode Island'

Christopher Hass — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:27:24 EST

From WJAR NBC10:

A new poll administered by Brown University students finds that Sen. Hillary Clinton's lead over Sen. Barack Obama in Rhode Island has narrowed ... [while] 22 percent remain undecided.

... "The race in Rhode Island appears to mirror the race we're seeing throughout the country. Hillary Clinton's support is narrowing, even compared to poll results from just a few days ago. Barack Obama's visit to the state on Saturday appears to have had an effect. Remarkably, though, 22 percent of likely Democratic primary voters have still not made up their minds. These men and women can, and probably will, decide this race in Rhode Island,"said Political Science and Public Policy Professor Jennifer Lawless.

... It appears, that the race will come down to voter turnout and last minute decision-making said Lawless. Based on trends this election cycle, as well as new voter registration figures in Rhode Island, high turnout among younger voters could boost Sen. Obama's support and possibly deliver a victory.

"The critical nature and historical importance of this election has increased turnout, especially among younger voters across the country. Our analysis actually predicts a voter turnout of upwards of 90,000 voters," said Adam Axler, a Brown University senior who helped conduct and analyze the poll.

There is still time to help Get Out The Vote in Rhode Island. Sign up now to help out on election day.

Video: Barack in Providence, Rhode Island

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 14:21:00 EST

Barack rallied thousands in Providence, Rhode Island yesterday. Take a look...

What are you up to this afternoon? Can you make time to make some phone calls during these crucial final days before the March 4th primaries? My.BarackObama.com/call.

Obama Rally in RI

Marc from Providence, RI — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 13:37:52 EST

A capacity crowd of 5,000 attended Barack's rally at Rhode Island College yesterday.

Photos by Uber-Photographer Frank Mullin

Senator John Kerry Canvass Kickoff

Marc from Providence, RI — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 11:33:01 EST

Massachusetts Senator John Kerry will be helping to kick off canvasses in Providence and Newport on Monday, March 3rd.

Erik S. Lesser for The New York Times, Jan 10, 2008

Canvass Kickoff in Providence at 9:45am EST

235 Westminster St.

Providence, RI, 02903

Join us

Canvass Kickoff in Newport at 11:45am EST

8 Fair St.

Newport, RI

Join us

Real Change in Rhode Island

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 15:24:10 EST

Barack addressed thousands in Providence, Rhode Island today...

Here are some of his remarks (as prepared for delivery)...

If we want real change, we need leaders in Washington who say what they mean and mean what they say. I don’t want to just tell everyone what they want to hear, I’ll tell people what they need to know. Because real change isn’t about changing your position to fit the politics of the moment. And that’s the choice in this election.
Real change isn’t calling NAFTA a victory and saying how good it was for America until you decide to run for President, like Senator Clinton did. I won’t stand here and tell you that we can stop every job from disappearing because of trade, but I will tell you that when I am President, we will end the tax breaks for corporations who ship our jobs overseas and give them to companies who create good jobs right here in America. That’s real change.
Real change isn’t saying that you’ll stand up to lobbyists and special interests when you’ve taken more money from Washington lobbyists than any Democrat or Republican running for President, like my opponent has. I’m the only one in this race who’s actually passed laws to take power away from lobbyists, they haven’t funded my campaign, and they will not drown out the voices of working Americans when I am President. That’s real change.
Real change isn’t voting for a bankruptcy bill that makes it harder for working families to climb out of debt and then saying that you’re glad it didn’t pass once you start running for President. One of the first things I did when I got to the Senate was fight against the credit card industry’s bankruptcy bill, and when I am President, we’ll reform our bankruptcy laws so that CEOs can’t dump your pension with one hand while collecting their bonus with another. That’s real change.
And real change isn’t voting for George Bush’s war in Iraq and then telling the American people it was actually a vote for more diplomacy when you start running for President. The title of the bill was “A Resolution to Authorize the Use of United States Armed Forces Against Iraq.” What else were you voting for? I knew what it was, and that’s why I opposed this war from the start, and why I will bring our troops home when I am President. That’s real change.
You know, I am reminded every day, if not by events than by my wife, that I am not a perfect man. And I will not be a perfect President. But I promise you this – I will always tell you what I think and where I stand. I will be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, even when we disagree. And I will wake up every day in that White House thinking and working and fighting to make your lives a little bit better. That’s real change, and that’s the change we’ll have when I am President.

Check out this report from the event...

How big? This big.
Obama is in Providence, RI. Now. Oh yeah, it's not just Texas and Ohio that vote on Tuesday. Vermont and Rhode Island, too. Obama left San Antonio this morning and appear in suburban Cleveland tonight.
Huge turnout in Providence, especially for a state the size of Dallas. The recreation center at Rhode Island College is filled with as many people as the fire marshals will allow - roughly 5,500. At least a thousand more are outside. Obama spent a few minutes with them, as he always does when there's an overflow.
Is that a big crowd? Consider that the entire state has 665,000 eligible voters (nearly all of the Democrats). Consider that when John Kerry won the RI primary in 2004, he only collected 25,000 votes, and Al Gore collected only 28,000 when he beat Bill Bradley in the RI primary four years earlier.
So, it's safe to say that, as elsewhere, Democrats here are pretty juiced.
Consider, too, that when Hillary Clinton was in this same venue six days ago, security officials estimated her crowd at 1,500, though other independent estimates were around 2,000.
AH Belo Corp. colleague Scott MacKay, veteran political reporter at the esteemed Providence Journal, says it's the state's biggest rally for a presidential candidate President Bill Clinton drew about 10,000 in downtown Providence, as an incumbent president, in 1996.

Here's a shot of Barack and Rep. Patrick Kennedy addressing the overflow crowd...

If you want to help out in Rhode Island, visit RI.BarackObama.com now to find out how you can get involved locally!

And for folks around the country, it's time to hit the phones -- call Rhode Island and make a difference in the March 4th elections...

'In ’08 Politics, Rhode Island Defies Its Size'

Christopher Hass — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 14:50:48 EST

From the New York Times:

For the first time anyone can remember, this small state [Rhode Island] is relishing its role in the presidential primary cycle.

The state, with only 665,000 eligible voters, has seen astonishing surges in both voter registration and grass-roots political activity.

... Senator Barack Obama's wife, Michelle, stopped here on Feb. 20; she was introduced by her brother, who happens to be the men's basketball coach at Brown University. Mr. Obama, of Illinois, will hold a last-minute rally on Saturday in Providence.

No presidential candidate stumped here before the 2004 primary, and the state's turnout that year — barely 6 percent of registered voters — was among the worst in the nation.

"We will not have another chance to so directly affect our political system from here in little Rhode Island," Max Chaiken, a junior at Brown, told fellow students packed into a coffee shop to hear a surrogate for Mr. Obama — the hip young movie star Kal Penn — on Thursday.

... Most of the state's political establishment is backing Mrs. Clinton, though one of its two congressmen, Representative Patrick J. Kennedy, endorsed Mr. Obama, as did former Senator Lincoln D. Chafee, a strong foe of the Iraq war and a longtime Republican who switched his affiliation to independent last year.

... After hearing Mr. Penn's pitch for Mr. Obama, Bo Tao, a senior at Brown, said he was leaning toward Mr. Obama despite some trepidation about the excitement around his candidacy.

"I know there's a lot of hype that might be factoring into it," Mr. Tao said, "but at the same time I have a gut feeling that he's very unique, and America hasn't seen anything like that in a long time."
Read the full article . . .

With March 4th just around the corner, Obama supporters are knocking on doors this weekend to Get Out the Vote for Barack. We need your help to put Barack over the top on Primary Day, March 4th.

All canvasses will have two shifts between 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. starting on Saturday, March 1 to Tuesday, March 4. Find a canvass location near you.

Rhode Island is Fired Up and Ready to Go!!!!

Marc from Providence, RI — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 14:46:22 EST

"What started as a whisper, swelled into a chourus of millions singing for change" - Barack Obama

Volunteers are streaming in the door and lending a hand to help Barack Obama win the Rhode Island primary on March 4th.

Come down and join this movement for change:

235 Westminster St.

Providence, RI

Help knock doors this weekend, Monday and Tuesday to Get Out the Vote for Barack Obama.

Kal Penn's Rhode Island College Tour

Marc from Providence, RI — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 14:56:02 EST

Hundreds of students from 4 colleges and universities across Rhode Island came out to see actor Kal Penn speak about the important role young people can play in Rhode Island's March 4th primary.

Help Get Out the Vote this weekend: Rhode Island GOTV

Kal began his tour at the University of Rhode Island in Kingston then went off to Providence to visit with students at Rhode Island College.

Brown University students packed into Blue State Coffee to hear Kal Penn.

Roger Williams University capped off a great day of brilliant policy questions by students, insightful answers by Kal Penn, and a whole lot of fun for all.

Juan Escoriza, the Roger Williams University campus coordinator, said about the 146 students that came out for Kal at his schooll, "Roger Williams has never been a political campus, but after today's event, it shows that RWU is fired up and ready to go!"

If you believe in change want to help Barack win Rhode Island on March 4th go to:

Rhode Island GOTV

Knock on Doors, Become a VIP

Marc from Providence, RI — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 10:19:52 EST

Rhode Islanders who knock on doors Saturday morning in advance of Senator Obama’s “Stand for Change” rally will gain access to a VIP area reserved for canvassers to see Senator Obama speak.

Volunteers will meet at 9:00 AM Saturday morning at various staging locations throughout the state to receive a doorknocking route. Upon completion of their assigned canvass, Rhode Island volunteers will receive a special pass that will provide access to a section reserved for Rhode Island canvassers at the rally.

Canvass tomorrow morning and become a VIP: Rhode Island GOTV

'Obama fever comes alive in Cranston'

Christopher Hass — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 09:53:45 EST

From the Cranston Herald:

The March 4 Rhode Island Primary couldn't come any sooner and the state may be preparing for one of the closest presidential races in decades. In one of the bluest of states, that is especially true between Democratic presidential hopefuls Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

Last weekend, Obama supporters embarked on a large-scale two-day canvass across the state. To rally voters and potential voters, 21 house parties are taking place at homes all over Rhode Island.

One of those parties happened last Sunday night at the home of Norman and Sylvia Orodenker of Fort Avenue in Edgewood.

Mr. Orodenker, a lawyer, serves as chairman of the Rhode Island Commission of Prejudice and Bias, chairman of the Urban League and chairman of the State Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

"I haven't seen anything like this since JFK," Orodenker said, "and I've been around for a while."

… Lynch praised the old-fashioned, traditional methods Rhode Islanders use to get people to vote, referring to what his father Dennis Lynch told him while he was Pawtucket's mayor.

"Take 10," he said, which meant take 10 of your friends to the polls and vote. Get out your Rolodex and your phone."

State Communications Director for Obama Caleb Weaver said several thousand doors just in Cranston have already been knocked on. He gives credit to those who have taken the reins and organized area canvassers.

On Pawtuxet Avenue in Edgewood, resident Jill Harrington opened up her house to be a campaign staging area where volunteers received primary packets and knocked on thousands of doors in the city spreading the words of Senator Obama.

"For each person, the campaign breaks it up to anywhere from 50 to 100 houses," she said. "It's great to be able to canvass where you live."

Read the full article . . .

Stand for Change Rally in Providence with Barack Obama

Marc from Providence, RI — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 18:34:36 EST

Barack will be in Rhode Island this Saturday, March 1st.

Where: Rhode Island College

Recreation Center

East Campus

600 Mount Pleasant Ave.

Providence, RI, 02908

When: Saturday, March 1st, 2008

Doors Open: 12 Noon EST

This event is free and open to the public; an RSVP is encouraged, but does not guarantee entrance. No ticket is required.

RSVP here

***For security reasons, bags are not allowed inside the event. Please limit personal items. No signs or banners are permitted.***

Barack Obama is Coming to Rhode Island

Marc from Providence, RI — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 15:52:45 EST

Barack is coming to Rhode Island on Saturday!!

Today, at the Obama campaign headquarters, Attorney General Patrick Lynch and other distinguished guests announced that Barack Obama is coming to Rhode Island this Saturday, March 1st.

The campaign office was buzzing with volunteers making phone calls to Rhode Island voters and the excitement in the room elevated exponentially when Attorney General Lynch made the announcement. Other guests included Women for Obama co-chairs Johnnie Chace and Stephanie Chafee, Students for Obama President Kim Ahern, former Lt. Gov. Charlie Fogarty, former Senator Lincoln Chafee and long time supporter Joe Fernandez.

More details coming soon!!!!

Actor Kal Penn Headlining Students for Obama College Tour

Marc from Providence, RI — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 13:00:42 EST

Actor Kal Penn will be visting colleges and universities across Rhode Island tomorrow, February 28th, as part of a college tour for Students for Obama. Kal will speak with students about the pivital role young people can play in helping to bring about change.

Penn currently appears in the FOX medical drama House, and last year, he had a recurring role in 24. He is probably best known for his breakout role in Harold & Kumar Go go White Castle. This spring, he is a visting professor of Asian American Studies at the University of Pennsylvania.

University of Rhode Island- Kingston

Multicultural Center

Room: Hardge Room

74 Lower College Road

Kingston, RI

Doors open: 10:00 AM

Program beings: 10:15 AM

Rhode Island College

Student Union

Room: The café

600 Mount Pleasant Ave.

Providence, RI

Doors Open: 11:45 AM

Program beings: 11:55 AM

Brown University

Alumnae Hall

Room: The Crystal Room

194 Meeting Street

Providence, RI

Doors open: 1:15 PM

Program beings: 1:30 PM

Roger Williams University

New Academic Building

Room: Bayroom

One Old Ferry Road

Bristol, RI

Doors open: 2:45

Program begins: 3:00pm

Photo from:

http://niralimagazine.com/2004/09/kal-penn-goes-to-hollywood/

'Tight race may fire up Rhode Island voters'

Christopher Hass — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 09:10:36 EST

From the Providence Journal:

Rarely has Rhode Island mattered this much.

Less than a week from now, in what some are calling the state’s first relevant primary in years, record numbers of voters are expected to crowd the polls and cast presidential nomination ballots.

… Historically, Rhode Island’s turnout in presidential primaries is low. Four years ago it was a paltry 6 percent. Usually by the time the Ocean State’s primary comes around, candidates on both sides have sewn up their party’s nomination.

This year, however, with the Democratic race still up for grabs, voters in the nation’s most Democratic state aren’t likely to stay home.

Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis predicted that Rhode Island could see 30-percent voter turnout, the highest of any presidential primary in recent memory.

In the past year, 43,000 new Rhode Island voters have registered. That’s almost as many as voted in the 2004 primary. Of the newly registered, roughly 20,000 are between the ages of 18 and 29, the demographic once seen as among the hardest to mobilize. Requests for mail ballots were up 230 percent.

… Contacted for comment last night, spokespersons for the Rhode Island campaigns of Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama played down crowd concerns, saying they’re just focused on getting Rhode Islanders out to vote in an election that’s generated such enthusiasm.

Read the full article . . .

The reviews are in: Obama scores higher, "Won," "Quick on his feet," "Well prepared and focused," "Excellent command"

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 23:52:54 EST

TIME (Joe Klein): He won. He not only won by not losing, but he also won on points--and on demeanor, and on quickness… LINK

Time (Jay Carney): Hillary Clinton missed some opportunities tonight. Her complaint at the beginning about the format of the debate seemed to fall flat. LINK

TIME (Mark Halperin) …Obama: B+, Clinton: B- “Avoided lofty rhetoric and focused on presenting himself as cool, deliberative, and substantive. Well prepared and focused.” LINK (On Clinton: “Her conviction that the media is biased against her seemed to throw her off throughout, and she was too distracted by her frustration with Obama and the press to truly shine.”)

NBC (Mark Murray): … Obama has an excellent command of his plan and his defense. LINK

MSNBC (David Gregory): …What you see time and time again with Barack Obama is a coolness about him. He absorbs a particular attack or a question or a pointed statement and tries to maybe acknowledge the point and then turn it around.

Washington Post (Chris Cillizza) …Obama successfully parried most of Clinton's offense and even turned some of her aggressiveness against her. LINK

Politico (Ben Smith) “Back to the war”: … it's always been Obama's trump card, and he returns to it tonight LINK

AMERICAblog (Joe Sudbay): … Obama was steady on a broad range of issues … In my view, the win goes to Obama. A clean win. LINK

The New Republic (Michael Crowley): …Obama is quick on his feet and good humored. He also conveys a certain bemused remove from the bizarre conventions of traditional insider politics LINK

ABC (Rick Klein): …Notice that Obama is the first to try to turn the argument to Sen. McCain -- their battle has already begun, if tentatively, and Obama welcomes it. LINK

Obama Debate Watch Party Tonight

Marc from Providence, RI — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 10:15:35 EST

Join friends and supporters of the Obama campaign at Local 121 in Providence to cheer on Senator Obama as he debates Senator Clinton in Cleveland, Ohio.

Attorney General Lynch will join supporters at the debate watch party.

Tuesday, February 26th

9:00pm EST

Local 121

121 Washington St.

Providence, RI 02903

No RSVP required, just come down and enjoy!

Rhode Island Women for Obama

Marc from Providence, RI — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 13:14:15 EST

Finding time to come out and volunteer at the Rhode Island Obama Headquarters can be tough for Molly Heller. She has her hands full with a 2 year old and a nine month old at home, but she still managed to come out on February 20th. Molly had a nice surprise when she came to volunteer that day: Michelle Obama was visiting. Seeing Michelle in person and even getting a hug was an experience she'll never forget.

Michelle came by the Rhode Island Headquarters after delivering an inspiring speech at the official launch of Rhode Island Women for Obama. Molly became a member of the group that brings female Obama supporters together around the issues that matter to not just women, but all Americans.

With 2 young children at home, public education matters to Molly. She worked in a charter school for years and was able to see first hand what a quality education can do and she wants to make sure that all kids have the opportunity for a great education and that college is afforadable for everyone.

Molly and others have joined Rhode Island Women for Obama to reach out and encourage other Rhode Island women to vote for Senator Obama because he represents the best hope of uniting the country and turning the page on the politics that seek to divide us.

You can stand up just like Molly and join Rhode Island Women for Obama.

http://my.barackobama.com/RhodeIslandWomenforObama

Molly's son Harry, a possible candidate to be President of Toddlers for Obama, loves Barack Obama. His eyes widen and his attention sharpens when he sees Barack on tv and "Obama" is already part of his 2 year old vocabulary.

On Wednesday night, Rhode Island Women for Obama is holding a phone bank at the Home of an Obama supporter for Rhode Island women to call other Rhode Island women that are still undecided.

To RSVP for the Women for Obama phone bank go to:

http://my.barackobama.com/WFOphonebank

If you can't make it Wednesday night, but you still want to call Rhode Island women you can go to to:

http://my.barackobama.com/RIcalls

Over 30 Grassroots House Parties in Rhode Island

Marc from Providence, RI — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 12:00:44 EST

Rhode Island Obama supporters are holding over 30 house parties throughout the state in the days leading up to March 4th. The house parties, organized and hosted by grassroots volunteers will bring supporters together with friends and neighbors to talk about why Barack Obama is the best candidate to unite our country and bring about change we can believe in.

Attorney General Patrick Lynch rallied supporters and encouraged the undecided voters to support Senator Obama at a house party in Cranston.

Representative Shanley and former Senator Lincoln Chafee met with supporters and undecided voters in Wakefield.

Congressman Kennedy Kicks Off Canvasses

Marc from Providence, RI — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 09:48:07 EST

This weekend, Congressman Patrick Kennedy kicked off canvasses that began from locations in Barrington and Pawtucket. The weekend saw several hundred Barack Obama supporters knocking on thousands of doors from Newport to Woonsocket.

"The energy and enthusiasm among the Obama supporters in unlike anything I've ever seen in Rhode Island," said Congressman Kennedy. "It is incredibly exciting for me to be out knocking doors with so many of my fellow Rhode Islanders who have also been inspired by Senator Obama and his message of hope and change we can believe in."

Hundreds Hit the Streets for Hope

Marc from Providence, RI — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 19:47:41 EST

Hundreds of volunteers dispersed througout the Ocean State today to go door-to-door to meet voters and express why Barack Obama is the only candidate that represents real, meaningful change that we can believe in.

Matt spent his day canvassing in his hometown of East Providence and explained why he supports Senator Obama. "My big issue is always foreign policy. Obama is putting forth a foreign policy plan that strongly favors dialogue with other nations," said Matt. As a Rhode Island native, Matt trecked to New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut, but he's fired up that Rhode Island can make a huge difference on March 4th.

Massachusetts residents, (L-R) Jerry, Sheila, Caroline and Alyssa came down to Pawtucket today to help their neigbor to the south bring home a victory for Barack on March 4th. Alyssa is supporting Barack because "he has fresh ideas." Alyssa said, "I feel a sincerity I haven't felt with a politician in forever."

Sunday is another fun-filled day of canvassing. There are staging locations in many areas of the state including:

Barrington
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
4 Holly Lane
Barrington, RI 02806
Contact: Kate

Coventry
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
42 Highland Avenue
Coventry, RI 02816
Contact: Wyat

Cranston
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
117 Pawtuxet Ave
Cranston, RI 02905
Contact: Jordan

East Greenwich
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
Mill Studio
42 Ladd St
(between Duane St and Blackmore St)
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Contact: Joan

Pawtucket
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
Art Gallery
75 Montgomery Street
Pawtucket, RI 02860
Contact: Dan

Providence
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
Rhode Island for Obama HQ
235 Westminster Street
Providence, RI 02903
Contact: Chris

Warwick
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
24 South Fair Street
Warwick, RI 02888
Contact: Andrew

Woonsocket
Sun, Feb 24, 10am
388 Vose Street
Woonsocket, RI 02895
Contact: Dan

You can find more events in your area at ri.barackobama.com
or call 401-277-2008 for details.

Obama campaign plans House Parties across state

Christopher Hass — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 17:30:25 EST

From the Providence Journal:

Presidential candidate Barack Obama wants to become the nominee of the Democratic Party, but in little Rhode Island his campaign is talking about a house party.

Make that house parties -- 21 in all around the state -- leading up to the March 4 primary in which Rhode Island, Texas, Ohio, and Vermont may turn out to be crucial in the nomination battle between Obama and New York Sen. Hillary Clinton.

The Obama campaign said in today's news release the house parties are "organized and hosted by grassroots volunteers" and will give the state's Obama supporters a chance to talk with friends and neighbors "about why Senator Obama is the best candidate to unite our country and bring about change we can believe in."

Search for a House Party near you . . .

Congressman Patrick Kennedy and Community Members Discuss Obama's Plan to Reclaim the American Dream

Marc from Providence, RI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:31:05 EST

Congressman Patrick Kennedy and community members gathered today to discuss Senator Barack Obama's plan to reclaim the American Dream and ease the burden on families hit hard by the weakening economy.

Senator Obama has laid out a plan to cut taxes for those Americans that need it the most and ensure that every American has affordable health insurance.

"For too long, we've had a political system in Washington that has given away millions in tax breaks to millionares and companies that ship jobs overseas," said Judy Delmonico from Cranston. "I'm backing Obama because he'll stand up to the special interests, cut taxes for those who need it the most -American workers- and will stop rewarding companies that send our jobs overseas."

Retired Teamster Maurice Ruels of Riverside continued, "I support Barack Obama because he as a plan that will help retirees like me. Under his tax plan, retirees who make under $50,000 will not have to pay federal income taxes."

Congressman Kennedy noted that the stories shared by the local residents are typical of the challenges facing the millions of Americans who are being squeezed by the tightening economy.

"Now more than ever, we need a leader like Barack Obama to unite the country and bring to Washington the kind of change we can believe in," said Kennedy. "Families in communities like this across the country need help and they need it now. Barack Obama has spent two decades in public service fighting to reclaim the American Dream on behalf of middle class families and he'll do the same thing as president."

You can learn more about Barack Obama's plan to stand up for the middle class HERE

Congressman Kennedy stopped by the RI Headquarters to meet with volunteers and thank them for their time and effort. The Congressman even had a chance to meet with one of our youngest supporters who came to help her mom make phone calls.

Over 2,300 Stand Up for Change with Michelle in Rhode Island

Marc from Providence, RI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:15:41 EST

Michelle Obama got a crowd of over 2,300 fired up and ready to go in Warwick, Rhode Island at CCRI on Wednesday evening. The night was kicked off with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Cumberland Mayor Dan Mckee's daughter Kara and his niece Kate.

Attorney General Patrick Lynch, an ardent Obama supporter and superdelegate introduced Michelle's brother and Brown University Head basketball coach, Craig Robinson.

Michelle took the podium and electrified the crowd. Her powerful and inspiring words left many in awe. She spoke of the difficulties regular folks face in today's world. She spoke of the difficulties families face when the bar keeps moving and what it will take to make sure every American has the opportunity to reach that bar.

Michelle Obama Visits with RI Volunteers

Marc from Providence, RI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:10:34 EST

After an inspiring conversation with the Rhode Island Women for Obama, Michelle stopped by the RI HQ to express her appreciation of all the hard work being done by volunteers on her husband's behalf.

Obama's youngest Rhode Island delegate

Christopher Hass — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:31:17 EST

From the Warwick Beacon (Rhode Island)

The general sentiment that young people are apathetic and could care less about the political process is taking a beating this year.

Young voter turnout in primaries across the country is on the rise, in large part due to aggressive Internet campaigns from all the major presidential candidates, especially the Ron Paul and Barack Obama campaigns.

In Rhode Island, though the voters haven't yet gone to the polls, (the primary is on March 4), young people are getting involved by declaring their candidacies for office.

… Bart Johnsen-Harris, 18, of Edgewood, has stepped forward to be the state's youngest candidate for a delegate to the National Convention, and perhaps the youngest delegate candidate ever.

… When he found out his birthday was just two days after the cut-off date to get on the ballot to attend the convention, which will be held in Denver, Colo., he decided it was all systems go. He stood outside of a local Shaw's market to garner the necessary 150 signatures to get placed on the ballot.

… "Some of my friends think it's really cool that I'm running to become a delegate for Obama, and they wished they'd gotten involved in the same way," said Johnsen-Harris. "Others are like, 'What's a delegate?'"

Read the full article . . .

'M. Charles Bakst: Up close with Michelle Obama'

Christopher Hass — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 17:33:51 EST

From the Providence Journal:

“You don’t get anywhere without big dreams,” Michelle Obama said in an interview yesterday after addressing a women’s audience at the Providence Biltmore. Without big dreams, she said, she’d never have found herself at Princeton and Harvard Law.

Still, she said of her husband, “He doesn’t enter into this naïvely. He’s worked in politics, in some of the toughest politics that you might see in Illinois … He knows that real change requires a lot of hard work and sometimes you don’t win them all. But what he also knows is that if you don’t come in with a unified base of support, and if you’re not willing to look beyond your own partisan situation and build new bridges, that you can’t get anything done.

“And that’s what the hope is about — it’s engaging enough people in the process to hold the system accountable in ways that we haven’t seen in a long time.”

Read the full article . . .

Over 150 Rhode Island Women Help Michelle Obama Launch RI Women for Obama

Marc from Providence, RI — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:02:20 EST

Photo by Frank Mullen

Yesterday afternoon, Michelle Obama helped launch Rhode Island Women for Obama at an event with over 150 Rhode Island women in attendence. The event, held at The Providence Biltmore marked the official launch of the group that will be lead by co-chairs, Johnnie Chace, Kelly Taylor, Stephanie Chafee, Fmr. US Attorney Meg Curran and State Senator Maryellen Goodwin.

Photo by Marc

Michelle spoke of her inspiring personal story, a story that began on the South Side of Chicago and took her to Princeton and then to Harvard Law School; A story of family, strong values and hard work. She now stands as the possible next first lady of the United States.

Photo by Marc

Rhode Island Women for Obama is a group that seeks to bring supporters of Senator Obama together around the issues affecting women in Rhode Island and throughout the country. If you'd like to join Rhode Island Women for Obama you can sign up at Rhode Island Women for Obama or email rhodeisland@barackobama.com

STAND FOR CHANGE RALLY WITH MICHELLE OBAMA

Marc from Providence, RI — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 18:30:46 EST

Michelle Obama is Coming to Rhode Island!!

"STAND FOR CHANGE RALLY" WITH MICHELLE OBAMA

Wednesday, February 20th

Community College of Rhode Island

Knight Campus

Student Dining Commons

400 East Avenue

Warwick, RI 02886

Doors Open: 5:45

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required, but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. Seating is limited, and admission is on a first come, first-served basis. To RSVP, please visit www.barackobama.com

***For security reasons, no bags are allowed. Please limit personal belongings. No signs or banners permitted.***

Read the profile of Michelle from Newsweek: link to article

From now until the event you can be making phone calls.

http://my.barackobama.com/RIcalls

Join the Rhode Island Action Team to stay up to date on all volunteer opportunities.

http://my.barackobama.com/RIActionTeam

RI Headquarters:

235 Westminster St

Providence, RI 02903

(401) 277-2008

Cumberland Mayor Daniel McKee Endorses Barack Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 11:31:04 EST

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Obama campaign today announced that Cumberland Mayor Daniel McKee endorsed Barack Obama for President. McKee, citing Obama’s unique ability to inspire Americans to be involved in our country’s political process, believes that Obama is the only candidate who can lead this country in a new direction.

“Here in Rhode Island, we know this election isn’t about retuning to the past, it’s about moving our country towards the future,” said Mayor McKee. “When Barack Obama is president, he will restore our common sense of purpose and continue to encourage the American people to get involved in our democracy.”

“We are grateful to Mayor McKee for joining our campaign and know his support will be crucial as we build a successful grassroots movement for change in Cumberland and across Rhode Island in the coming weeks,” said Rhode Island State Director Mike Dorsey.

Visit RI.BarackObama.com to find out how you can get involved locally in Rhode Island and check out My.BarackObama.com/call to make calls and help us win the Ocean State.

'St. George's School students on Obama bandwagon'

Christopher Hass — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 08:05:17 EST

From the Newport Daily News:

Most high school students still can’t vote, but many are taking an interest in the political process. Among these new recruits is a group of students from St. George’s School, who recently took trips to New Hampshire and Massachusetts to campaign for Democratic candidate Barack Obama.

Senior Alex Merchant said he formed the group because he was looking for a way to act on his support for Obama and thought it would be easier if he had school support.

… Merchant’s idea led to “SG for Obama,” an official high school chapter of Obama’s campaign that has grown to include 50 St. George’s students. By creating the group, Merchant also became the high school coordinator for the Obama campaign in Rhode Island.

In addition to weekly meetings, the group has traveled to New Hampshire and Massachusetts to campaign for the Illinois senator and held a phone-banking event during which they called voters in Connecticut.

For most of the group’s members, it’s the first time they have worked on a political campaign.

… Obama’s Rhode Island campaign recently opening a new headquarters in Providence and SG for Obama plans to canvass on the weekends leading up to the March 4 Rhode Island primary. So the marriage seems poised to continue as long as there’s a race to run.

So while it’s still unlikely that high school students will determine the outcome of the 2008 presidential election, it’s almost certain they’ll make a difference.

Read the full article . . .

Obama campaign goes up on the air in Rhode Island

Christopher Hass — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 18:56:27 EST

With the state's March 4th primary just weeks away, the Obama campaign is now up on the air with television ads in Rhode Island. The first two, "Mother" and "Choices," have already started airing:

A third, titled "Join," is set to begin on Monday:

Providence Phoenix endorses Barack Obama

Christopher Hass — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 15:36:13 EST

From the Providence Phoenix:

Obama’s candidacy is not only about hope, not only about change. Most important of all, it is about the future.

Almost four years ago in Boston, Obama, then an Illinois state senator, electrified and inspired the Democratic convention as no national newcomer had done since 1948, when Hubert Humphrey championed the cause of civil rights.

Obama’s clarion call has been to reject the politics of confrontation and division as practiced by Bush, right-wingers, and talk-radio motor mouths.

His vision is of comity and common purpose. Eloquence is his calling card. It is penetrating, transcending verbal facility — the hallmark of someone at peace with himself, someone who is confident rather than cocksure.

… We believe that, come the final election in November, Barack Obama has the talent and temperament to consolidate this refreshing enthusiasm and energy, and to put the sorry Bush years behind us.

Read the full endorsement . . .

See the list of over 100 newspapers that have formally endorsed Barack Obama...

Kicking it Off in Rhode Island

Marc from Providence, RI — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 19:02:25 EST

Over 200 volunteers came out today to knock doors and make phone calls to Rhode Island voters throughout the state. Volunteers came together at the RI Headquarters at 235 Westminster St in Providence to kickoff the day of door knocking and phone calling.

The momentum will continue into tomorrow with canvasses taking place throughout the state.

Providence Canvass

Obama for America Rhode Island Headquarters

235 Westminster Street

Providence, RI

Canvass begins at 10:00 AM

Pawtucket Canvass

Home of Obama Supporter

10 Exchange Court

Riverfront Loft 301

Pawtucket, RI

Canvass begins at 10:00 AM

Cranston Canvass

Home of Obama Supporter

30 Marcy Street

Cranston, RI

Canvass begins at 10:00 AM

East Providence Canvass

Home of Obama Supporter

149 Anthony Street

East Providence, RI

Canvass begins at 11:30 AM

Newport Canvass

Home of Obama Supporter

179 Coggeshall Avenue

Newport, RI

Canvass begins at 10:00 AM

Warwick Canvass

Home of Obama Supporter

24 South Fair Street

Warwick, RI

Canvass begins at 10:00 AM

The Paws on the Ground: Obama Puppy Fired Up and Ready to Go for the Canvass Kickoff!!

'Rhode Island sees surge in new-voter registration'

Christopher Hass — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 14:21:52 EST

From the Providence Journal:

A surge of newly registered Rhode Island voters — many of them young — looms as a decisive force in the March 4 presidential primary, especially in the tight Democratic contest between New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Illinois Sen. Barack Obama.

More than 43,000 voters signed up over the last year, with about half of those (21,000) coming in the four months before the Feb. 2 deadline to register for the March vote, according to a Journal analysis of state voter files.

… Obama’s campaign, Della Volpe says, was a factor in the big increase in voter turnout in the early Democratic caucuses and primaries. “Obama kind of lit the fire.”

… At the University of Rhode Island’s Kingston campus, political-science Prof. Maureen Moakley says her students are “very engaged” this year in the presidential campaign.

“I am amazed at the level of enthusiasm among my students for Barack Obama,” says Moakley. “The question is how many of these young people will turn out to vote. But just the fact that they have taken time to register suggests that something is out there is driving this.”

…“This is an exciting year in Rhode Island,” said Moakley. “It’s like we are Iowa or New Hampshire.”

Read the full article . . .

Obama Canvass Kickoff

Marc from Providence, RI — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 00:00:36 EST

Join fellow Obama supporters for the Canvass Kickoff, Saturday morning at 10:00am at the Obama RI headquarters. We're going door-to-door to share Senator Obama's vision to unite our country and bring about real, meaningful change.

Canvass Kickoff

Obama RI Headquarters

235 Westminster St.

Providence, RI, 02903

Get Fired Up and Ready to Go!!

Over 400 Supporters Fired Up for RI HQ Opening!

Marc from Providence, RI — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 17:29:28 EST

Rhode Island is Fired Up and Ready to Go!! Over 400 supporters came out to the Rhode Island headquarters located at 235 Westminster St. in Providence on Wednesday night to meet the staff and get organized for a massive outreach operation over the upcoming weeks.

The crowd, spanning from wall-to-wall in the large industrial HQ, was a testament to the grassroots support that has been building for nearly a year in the Ocean State. After helping out in New Hampshire and Massachusetts, Rhode Island is ready for the limelight. Rhode Island's time is now! With such passionate support throughout the state and a fierce fight ahead, things couldn't look better.

The organizational meeting brought supporters together with local staff to get volunteer assignments such as phone banking and canvassing. State Director Mike Dorsey kicked off the event with a rousing introduction and call to action. He was followed by former Lieutenant Governor Charlie Fogarty and Attorney General Patrick Lynch, both fervent supporters of Senator Obama.

With introductions aside, it was time to get down to business. State Field Director Tim Fraser expressed the importance of getting out and reaching as many Rhode Islanders as possible over the next few weeks because this year, Rhode Island has the opportunity to make a huge difference in determining the next president of the United States.

To get involved and join this movement for change you can sign up at:

http://my.barackobama.com/signup

Join the RI Action Team at:

http://my.barackobama.com/RIActionTeam

Our office is located at 235 Westminster St. Providence RI, 02903

(401) 277-2008

rhodeisland@barackobama.com

'Obama campaign opens R.I. office'

Christopher Hass — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 12:44:41 EST

From the Providence Journal:

Sen. Barack Obama’s presidential campaign kicked off its countdown to the March 4 primary yesterday with a roar: “Yes, we can.”

Campaign organizers opened Obama’s Rhode Island headquarters a day after he secured victories in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia,

The address: 235 Westminster St., a prominent downtown space used by Craftland during the holidays and the farmers’ market.

… For the opening last night, Obama campaign staffers secured some of the heavyweights in the state: former Lt. Gov. Charlie Fogarty and Attorney General Patrick C. Lynch — a superdelegate who broke ranks with the state Democratic Party and his brother, state party Chairman William J. Lynch, in endorsing the Illinois senator for president.

“Hope is sweeping this nation and Rhode Island cannot let the next president of this nation down,” said Lynch, speaking with the cadence of a preacher.

Polls might place Obama behind Clinton in the race for the state’s 32 Democratic delegates, but the dice are yet to be rolled, Lynch said, urging volunteers to get the word out “talking to friends, and neighbors … those in authority, those with influence, brothers.

“Yes, we can. Let’s get it done.”

Breaking: Lincoln Chafee endorses Barack Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 11:44:06 EST

Breaking from the Providence Journal...

Alert: R.I.'s Chafee backs Obama

Former Republican U.S. Sen. Lincoln Chafee today endorsed Democrat Barack Obama for president, citing the Illinois senator’s longstanding opposition to the war in Iraq.

Chafee, who lost a run for reelection in 2006, was the only Republican in the Senate to vote against giving President Bush the authority to attack Iraq. Chafee left the Republican Party last year and changed his registration to unaffiliated.

Chafee hinted several days ago that he was considering a vote for Obama. In his upcoming book, Chafee criticizes Democrats who supported the resolution to authorize the war, saying a vote for the war should be a career-ending lapse of judgment. In backing Obama, the former senator said the nation cannot afford another presidential election with two candidates who supported the war.

Obama was not in the Senate in 2002; he announced his opposition to the war that October in a speech in Chicago.

The other top contenders, U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton, a Democrat, and Republican U.S. Sen. John McCain, voted for the authorization.

McCain, who campaigned for Chafee in 2006, is in Rhode Island today for a campaign event. He is the likely Republican nominee.

Check out RI.BarackObama.com to find out how you can get involved locally in Rhode Island...

'Presidential campaign begins in Rhode Island'

Christopher Hass — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 21:02:45 EST

From the Boston Herald:

It’s the nation’s tiniest state, and it’s never figured much in national politics. But this year is different in Rhode Island, which on March 4 holds presidential primaries that could help determine the outcome of the race.

… A statewide poll West conducted last weekend reflected Clinton’s popularity: she led Obama 36 percent to 28 percent. But the gap is narrowing. The same poll in September showed Clinton with a 19-point lead.

… Obama has 250 or more volunteers in the Ocean State and sent more than a dozen paid staff, the campaign said.

… Registered Democrats outnumber registered Republicans three to one in Rhode Island, although there are more so-called "unaffiliated" voters than Democrats and Republicans combined. Those voters can cast ballots in either primary.

Meet Craig Robinson

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 15:43:26 EST

The Providence Journal has a great profile of Barack's brother-in-law Craig Robinson, who is the head coach of the Brown University basketball team in Providence, Rhode Island...

PROVIDENCE — Maybe it was moments after Brown had defeated the University of California at Davis in December, and he was shaking hands with the opposing players, when one of them said, “I just want to tell you, coach, that I’m voting for your brother-in-law.”
Maybe it was when he realized that he had become Michelle Obama’s brother, even though it always had been the other way around, Michelle always being known as his little sister.
Maybe it was simply the realization that his brother-in-law might actually become the next president of the United States.
“I had no idea of the magnitude of it,” he says. “This is another level.”
But this is not about Barack Obama, or even Michelle Obama. Nor is it about the past year that’s changed his life in ways that once would have been unimaginable.
No, this is about Craig Robinson, who is an amazing story in his own right, someone who knows how both education and basketball can change a family’s history, change everything, can be the promise of America in ways we still like to believe are possible.
Or what are the odds that someone who came from Chicago’s South Side and went to an inner-city elementary school, the son of parents who didn’t have a college education, would grow up to be both a success in the financial world and then an Ivy League basketball coach, and oh yeah, have a sister who could end up as the country’s first lady?
There were no odds.
“Our parents were our motivation,” he says...

Check out this video of Craig during the Hoops Action Change tournament in New Hampshire this summer...

And visit RI.BarackObama.com to find out how you can get involved locally in Rhode Island.