WV HQ Blog

Back in West Virginia

Christopher Hass — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 17:06:07 EDT

From Meagan Gardner, the new West Virginia State Director for Organizing for America:

My name is Meagan Gardner, and I'm the new West Virginia State Director for Organizing for America.

Since Inauguration Day, Organizing for America has been dedicated to making real the change we fought for during the election. But to be successful, we need to hear from you -- your effort and commitment are the backbone of this movement and this organization.

That's why I'm so excited to announce that we're back on the ground in West Virginia, and starting this Wednesday, April 22nd, we'll be hosting Listening Tour Town Halls across the state.

Will you make your voice heard and join us on the Listening Tour?

At Listening Tour meetings, you'll get a chance to meet new state staff members, hear about some lessons learned during the general election, and offer your thoughts on how we can organize West Virginia going forward. Your ideas will be used to write a West Virginia-specific plan for Organizing for America in 2009 and beyond.

The campaign brought an unprecedented number of new voices into the process -- we need to make sure those voices remain at the center of the debate as the President and Congress work on providing solutions for our economy.

But these meetings are not just for folks who were involved in the campaign -- we're hopeful that every West Virginian will get involved.

We can't stop growing our movement now. We've never had a better opportunity to shape our future -- and just like during the election, we'll do it from the bottom up.

Sign up now to attend a Listening Tour event.
I look forward to seeing you,

Meagan

Meagan Gardner
West Virginia State Director
Organizing for America

P.S. -- If you can't make it to a Listening Tour event, you can still get involved with Organizing for America in West Virginia. Let us know how you'd like to see West Virginia organized.

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

Christopher Hass — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:04:44 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

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 . . .

West Virginia: Polls Open 6:30 AM - 7:30 PM

Kevin Flynn — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 19:31:44 EST

In West Virginia, polls are open today from 6:30 AM until 7:30 PM local time. Anyone who is in line by 7:30 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?

Most voters in West Virginia do not need identification.

Exception: First-time voters who registered by mail, need to bring ONE of the following IDs:

Any current and valid photo ID (e.g. driver’s license, student, employer, or government ID)

A document that shows your name and address such as a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document.

What time will the polls be open on November 4?

6:30 am–7:30 pm

What if I am not on the voter list or if I encounter other problems at my polling place on Nov 4?

If a poll worker says you are not registered, you should confirm that you are in the right precinct or polling place. If you are at your polling place, you should ask the poll worker to call the county clerk’s office to see if you are on any other list. If you are not found on any list, vote a provisional ballot.

If your vote is challenged, you should answer questions but insist on voting. You can vote a provisional ballot if you are not issued a regular one.

Poll workers cannot ask you about personal financial matters. You have the right to vote even if you have unpaid bills, parking tickets, overdue taxes, or a home at risk of foreclosure or which has been foreclosed.

If you are in line when the polls close at 7:30 p.m., you can vote!

Do I have the right to take time off from work to vote?

You have the right to request up to 3 paid hours off from your employer, if you do not have at least 3 hours before or after work when you can go to the polls to vote. Your request must be made in writing and be given to your employer at least 3 days prior to Election Day.

What about voters with disabilities?

Disabled voters may receive voting assistance by anyone the voter chooses other than a current or former employer, union representative or candidate in the election.

Disabled voters may also vote from their automobile.

"I've learned that this election is about the heart of America"

Kevin Flynn — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 15:30:24 EST

Jonathan Curley is a banker. He voted for George H.W. Bush twice and George W. Bush once. Here's an excerpt from his story on canvassing for the Obama campaign in North Carolina, from the Christian Science Monitor:

There has been a lot of speculation that Barack Obama might win the election due to his better "ground game" and superior campaign organization.

I had the chance to view that organization up close this month when I canvassed for him. I'm not sure I learned much about his chances, but I learned a lot about myself and about this election.
Let me make it clear: I'm pretty conservative. I grew up in the suburbs. I voted for George H.W. Bush twice, and his son once. I was disappointed when Bill Clinton won, and disappointed he couldn't run again.
...So you can imagine my surprise when my wife suggested we spend a Saturday morning canvassing for Obama. I have never canvassed for any candidate. But I did, of course, what most middle-aged married men do: what I was told.
At the Obama headquarters, we stood in a group to receive our instructions. I wasn't the oldest, but close, and the youngest was maybe in high school. I watched a campaign organizer match up a young black man who looked to be college age with a white guy about my age to canvas together. It should not have been a big thing, but the beauty of the image did not escape me.

Instead of walking the tree-lined streets near our home, my wife and I were instructed to canvass a housing project. A middle-aged white couple with clipboards could not look more out of place in this predominantly black neighborhood.
We knocked on doors and voices from behind carefully locked doors shouted, "Who is it?"
"We're from the Obama campaign," we'd answer. And just like that doors opened and folks with wide smiles came out on the porch to talk.

Grandmothers kept one hand on their grandchildren and made sure they had all the information they needed for their son or daughter to vote for the first time.
...We knocked on every door we could find and checked off every name on our list. We did our job, but Obama may not have been the one who got the most out of the day's work.
I learned in just those three hours that this election is not about what we think of as the "big things."

... I've learned that this election is about the heart of America. It's about the young people who are losing hope and the old people who have been forgotten. It's about those who have worked all their lives and never fully realized the promise of America, but see that promise for their grandchildren in Barack Obama. The poor see a chance, when they often have few. I saw hope in the eyes and faces in those doorways.
My wife and I went out last weekend to knock on more doors. But this time, not because it was her idea. I don't know what it's going to do for the Obama campaign, but it's doing a lot for me.

It's not too late to volunteer. Click here to make a difference in the last few days.

Time to GOTV - Find a place to help make change

Kevin Flynn — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 13:39:25 EDT

We've reached the most important days of this entire campaign.

All of the voters we've registered, phone calls we've made, doors we've knocked on, friends and neighbors we spread the word to over the course of this campaign have brought us to where we are today: making Barack Obama very compettive in the race for the presidency of the United States.

Now we have to make sure all of that time and effort doesn't go to waste. It's time to once again take change into our own hands and get out the vote (GOTV).

As Barack explained in Nevada this morning:

Don’t believe for a second this election is over. Don’t think for a minute that power concedes. We have to work like our future depends on it in these last few days, because it does.

Join millions of Americans all over the country by volunteering in the last four days of this campaign. Everything we have worked for over the past 20 months will come down to what we do -- or don't do -- to help get out the vote.

Miss Laura from the DailyKos offered these words of wisdom from a veteran volunteer:

Before you hit your first door, or dial your first number...think about why you're doing it. Maybe it's your loved one in Iraq. Maybe it's wanting a Supreme Court that will preserve your right to control your own body. Maybe it's the healthcare you need and can't afford.
Take a piece of paper and a pen and write your reason down. Keep it in your pocket, and if you have a hard conversation or string of them, take that piece of paper out of your pocket and read it. Remind yourself that this is not an empty chore, it's a way to something really, really important. Carry that knowledge with you to each door or each dial.

So what can you do? Find a volunteer event near you and sign up to help between now and Election Day.

Early Voting Ends Saturday - Time to GOTV

Kevin Flynn — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 13:01:24 EDT

Early Voting in West Virginia ends on Saturday, November 1st.

The Bluefield Daily Telegraph reports:

By all indications, it’s going to be a busy day for poll workers on Tuesday, Nov. 4. That’s why early voting is providing some relief to voter registration officials across the country, including those here in the Mountain State.
With thousands voting early, it’s our hope the voting — and the counting of ballots — will go smoother on Nov. 4. Early voting has proven to be a welcomed convenience for thousands across southern West Virginia.

Are you one of the many that took advantage of early voting? Well if not, you can still vote early on the last day, Saturday, November 1st.

UPDATE: President Bill Clinton in Beckley this Saturday

Kevin Flynn — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:02:38 EDT

UPDATE: We now have updated information on this Saturday's event in Beckley with President Bill Clinton . . .

This Saturday, November 1st, please join President Bill Clinton in Beckley, where he will talk about Barack's vision for creating the kind of change we need.

Change We Need Rally with President Bill Clinton

Word Memorial Park
Corner of Neville Street and Leslie Gates Place
Beckley, WV 25801
Saturday, November 1st
Doors Open: 9:00 a.m.

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required; however an RSVP is strongly encouraged.
For security reasons, do not bring bags or umbrellas. Please limit personal items. No signs or banners allowed.

Vote for Barack today. Find your Early Vote location.

Winning West Virginia for Barack

Kevin Flynn — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 08:17:02 EDT

Senator Jay Rockefeller has a message for the Mountain State:

This time of year, you can see it across our beautiful state: change is coming to West Virginia.

At a rally in Charleston on Friday, thousands came out to hear Joe Biden talk about how we can bring that change home to the hard-working families that need it the most.

For months, our friends and neighbors have been knocking on doors and spreading the word about this campaign in their communities and in neighboring battleground states.

But with just 10 days to go in this election, now's the time to take the fight to John McCain right here in West Virginia.

We can't afford to wait -- watch Joe Biden firing up the crowd in Charleston and sign up to volunteer now:

The Obama-Biden ticket understands the values that are important to all West Virginians.

Like Joe said in Charleston, West Virginia's energy future is one of the most promising in the nation. Barack Obama's plans to invest in clean coal technology and energy infrastructure would create 12,000 jobs in our own backyard.

West Virginia simply cannot take four more years of Bush-McCain economic policies - you deserve solutions that boost our economy and work for you.

Now, there are just a few short days left to get involved and do everything we can to make sure we get the change we need.

It's up to us to prove Joe Biden was right when he said: "We're gonna win West by-God Virginia."

There's no time to lose -- find the Obama office near you and help us win today.

John McCain and the Republicans didn't think they'd have to fight for West Virginia. We have 9 days left to make them wish they had.

Thanks,

Senator Jay Rockefeller

Joe Biden in Charleston: "Get out there and vote"

Kevin Flynn — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 19:35:56 EDT

On Friday Joe Biden was flanked by West Virginia Senators Robert Byrd and Jay Rockefeller, and Governor Manchin at a festive rally in downtown Charleston. Early Vote is underway now and continues until November 1st, and Joe stressed how important is was for supporters to help the campaign by voting early.

As ABC News reported, Joe told the assembled crowd:

“We plan on competing right to the very end for every single vote here in this state and with your help — I want you to get out. You can vote early, so vote early. Get out there and vote,” he said.

On Saturday, the West Virginia Democratic Party sponsored a Block Party at Haddad Riverfront Park to help get out the vote for early voting as reported on CBS affiliate WOWK-TV:

"We just need to get all the Democrats out. We don't want them to take it for granted that It's going one way or the other. We want them to go out and vote," says Tom Vogel, State Director for Obama For America.

If you've already voted, we still volunteers to help get out the vote from now until November 4th. You can sign up for a volunteer shift now, or visit your local office to find out how you can help.

Governor Manchin Stumps for Barack

Kevin Flynn — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:39:25 EDT

All year long, many residents in West Virginia have kept the faith that Senator Obama was the right choice to lead our proud country. And now that the final days are here, that determination and hard work have made this race competitive.

Early voting has been very active and this campaign continues to stress the importance of casting your vote early to avoid the potential long lines on November 4th and to help our field operation focus on undecided voters. November 1st is the last day of Early Voting and you can click here to find your nearest polling location.

Obama supporter Governor Manchin and guests attended a Pig roast in Summers County Friday night.

The State Journal reported on the event:

Summers County Democrats rallied with a pig roast.
The executive committee shared the dinner table with the public this evening.
Democratic supporters and politicians gathered at the Technology Center in Hinton.
Several candidates spoke on behalf of the democratic ticket, hoping to gain some more votes.
Governor Joe Manchin also traveled to Hinton to join in on the rally.
Governor Manchin says the campaign trail is an exciting time for him to revisit with old friends.

John Porter, a grassroots correspondent for the Huffington Post shares his experience in West Virginia and his first phonebank event:

I can honestly say that the first day that I walked into the Campaign for Change headquarters for my first phonebanking event, I was walking blindly into a world that I had never experienced before.
It has been just over a month since I first walked into the headquarters, and I can say that volunteering for the campaign has had a major impacts on my life. I must say that those who are volunteering for the campaign do so not only because they want to see change in the White House, but they also see the kind of enlightened, energetic leadership that they can believe in.
It is refreshing to see the excitement in this campaign process and exciting to be a part of it.

You can find phonebanking events near you this weekend, or you can make calls from home using our online tools.

Road Blog: Joe Biden in Charleston, West Virginia

Obama Road Blog — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:17:07 EDT

"Appalachia cannot afford to go with McCain, it must go with Obama." – Joe Biden

At the outdoor Change We Need Rally in Charleston, West Virginia this morning, 3000 people congregated on Capitol Street to hear Governor Manchin, Senator Byrd, and Senator Rockefeller introduce Joe Biden. It was an introduction wrought with feeling, as Senator Byrd spoke about Barack and Joe with a political elegance derived from another era.

Joe’s central message was that the Obama-Biden ticket believes that clean coal is part of America’s energy future, and part of their plan to invest in a new energy economy for the country. He noted that China is building one coal-fired plant a week, which is a danger to the environment. He implored the audience:

Instead of pouring our energy dollars into the sands of Saudi Arabia and the pockets of Venezuela, we should be exporting home-made technology, solving not only our energy problems and challenges, but helping the world solve the rest of them. We should become the engine of change.

Please enjoy a video from Joe’s speech in Charleston.

Sharon Barnes
October 24, 2008
En route to Greensboro, North Carolina

Early Voting Underway in West Virginia

Kevin Flynn — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 12:15:15 EDT

Early voting has begun in the Mountain State, and runs through November 1st.

Bibi H. from Berkeley Springs was very excited to get this election started in her hometown and was featured in this Herald-Mail article:

"We had an Early Voting Celebration at our Morgan County Democratic Headquarters and I got to be the first one in the county to vote for change 'cause it's my birthday! One I will never ever forget, and that I hope to tell my grandchildren about someday."

Early voting in West Virginia runs today through November 1st. Please visit our VoteForChange.com for more info on Early voting in your area.

Attorney William C. from Berkeley Springs does his part to raise awareness for Barack and Early Voting by hanging these signs on his law office building

Vote Early in West Virginia

Kevin Flynn — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 07:41:12 EDT

Tom Vogel, West Virginia State Director of Obama for America sent out this email to remind us that the more supporters who make their voices heard now, the more energy and resources we can devote to our Get Out The Vote efforts between now and Election Day.

Every day is Election Day in West Virginia, where you can vote early.

Early voting is fast, easy, and it could make the difference in this election. Show your friends and family that you've made up your mind and you're ready for change now.

Take the first step today.

Find your early voting location.

Early voting is simple, safe, and convenient. It's also a vital part of our strategy.

The more supporters who make their voices heard now, the more energy and resources we can devote to our Get Out The Vote efforts closer to Election Day.

Vote early today and see if you can get five or more friends to vote early with you.

All across the country, supporters like you are working together to grow this movement for change. We know that West Virginia families can't afford four more years of failed Bush-McCain policies.

That's why we need you to help make sure we have an advantage in West Virginia before Election Day.

Take a moment now to fill out some basic information and make your voice heard:

www.voteforchange.com

This is our chance to take America in a new direction -- so the next four years don't look like the last eight.

We can't do this without you.

Thanks,

Tom

Tom Vogel
West Virginia State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- The McCain campaign is running one of the most negative campaigns in history. In order for Barack to win West Virginia this November, we are going to need your help.

Please find a canvass near you and help Barack and Democrats up and down the ticket.

Final Debate Watch Parties

Kevin Flynn — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:19:05 EDT

Jon Carson, the National Field Director, is urging supporters across the country to get together for the final presidential debate this Wednesday. Sign up today to host a Debate Watch Party - or attend one near you

The final presidential debate is this Wednesday, October 15th, at 9:00 p.m. Eastern.

It's the last chance for undecided voters to see Barack and John McCain side-by-side and determine who will bring the change this country needs.

And it will be the final time before election night to come together in this way with your friends, family, and fellow supporters.

Make the most of this opportunity by signing up to host a Debate Watch Party -- or attend one near you.

If you've joined us for an event before, you know how powerful they can be to help build support and grow our movement. If you haven't, it's a terrific way to connect with fellow supporters and folks who may just be making up their minds.

If you can host an event, we'll make sure you have everything you need to make it a success. We're having a special conference call for Debate Watch Party hosts on Tuesday, when we'll give you ideas for how to get your guests involved in the rest of the campaign.

In these final weeks, each of us needs to do whatever we can to keep strengthening this campaign and encourage undecided voters to cast their votes for change.

Sign up to host or attend a Debate Watch Party now.

Thanks,

Jon

Jon Carson
National Field Director
Obama for America

West Virginia Registration Deadline: October 14th

Kevin Flynn — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 10:51:35 EDT

The deadline for to register to vote is quickly approaching in the Mountain State. October 14th is the last day to ensure that your are eligible to participate in this historic presidential election. You can visit VoteForChange.com to register to confirm your registration status in minutes.

Early Voting in West Virginia begins on October 15th and continues through November 1st.

These West Virginians have been doing their part to spread Barack Obama's message here in West Virginia, and will continue to do so until the last vote is in:

The Bluefield Daily Telegraph reports:

Early voting in West Virginia begins on Wednesday, Oct. 15, and continues through Nov. 1, including the last two Saturdays before Election Day where the local courthouses will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to accommodate early voting.

Absentee voting is already underway. Voters who will be out of town, or are unable to cast a ballot on Nov. 4 due to a disability or other valid excuse, are qualified to cast an absentee ballot. More than 150 absentee ballots have already been mailed out to registered voters in Mercer County.

With less than four weeks to go, West Virginians are fired up and ready to help Obama win this election on November 4th. With the online tools on My.BarackObama.com, there are many ways to help. Supporters can phonebank from home using Neighbor to Neighbor, sign up to travel to neighboring battleground states as part of the Drive For Change program, host fundraisers, and more.

The Debate and What's Next

Christopher Hass — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 15:19:44 EDT

There was news this morning that tonight's presidential debate will proceed as planned, with both candidates in attendance. Last night, National Field Director Jon Carson sent out a message inviting supporters to attend debate parties, and explaining what comes next for the campaign . . .

The election is less than 40 days away, and the American people deserve to hear directly from the candidates about how they intend to lead our country.

You're invited to join a Debate Watch Party in your community and discuss the issues that are most important to you and your family, friends, and neighbors.

Find a Debate Watch Party in your area and RSVP today.

These parties will allow you to to get to know folks in your community, and continue building this campaign from the bottom up by reaching out to even more supporters using our Neighbor to Neighbor tool.

If you can't attend a party, you can still use our Neighbor to Neighbor tool to reach out to swing voters in a crucial battleground state who need to hear from you.

It's an extremely powerful way to build support for Barack.

Whether you can attend a Debate Watch Party or not, it's a great way to connect with fellow voters.

Get your list of potential supporters right now and start making phone calls today.

Neighbor to Neighbor gives you everything you need to get started.

As Barack prepares for the presidential debate, we'll be preparing, too -- by laying the groundwork for victory on Election Day.

Let's get to work.

Thanks,

Jon

Jon Carson
National Field Director
Obama for America

Phone Call by Phone Call

Christopher Hass — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 19:26:57 EDT

One of the newest features of our Neighbor to Neighbor voter contact system is the online phonebanking tool. During the primary, thousands of supporters used our old online calling system to make literally millions of phone calls that made the difference in hard fought primaries across the country. In November, these phone calls will once again be a key part of our strategy.

Here is a quick tour of the new phonebanking tool:

The phonebanking tool provides you with lists of targeted voters in your community, a brief calling script, and an easy interface to enter your results. You can print off call lists and make calls offline, or you can make calls while at your computer.

When you’re done calling, report your results back to the campaign so we can update the system and let our staff and volunteers on the ground know where are supporters are and who needs more information.

In the coming days, we'll be adding more features and more calling campaigns that will allow you to make calls to key battleground states. In some areas, you'll be able to make peer to peer phone calls to talk to students, veterans, women, Latinos, and other important groups. If you're interested in making peer to peer calls, visit our People page and sign up for the constituency groups and demographics that apply to you.

No matter who you are or where you live, if you can make time during the coming weeks to help reach out to other voters, sign up now.

When campaign manager David Plouffe talked about a "persuasion army" he meant nothing more, and nothing less, than millions of volunteers doing their part talking to friends, family, and neighbors one person at a time.

"Now it's our turn."

Christopher Hass — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:24:43 EDT

From the earliest days of the campaign, Barack has closed his speeches not just with an ask for a vote, but with a call to action. From the beginning, this campaign has been built on the belief that ordinary people can make a difference in their lives and in their nation's government, but only if they act.

In his closing remarks in Daytona Beach this morning, Barack made this case as clear as ever:

I hope you'll join me. I hope you'll walk with me, so that we can turn the page on the failed policies of the past. And if you make that commitment, if everybody out here is getting registered, if everybody is out there volunteering, if all of you are doing a little community organizing, if you're making phone calls, sending out emails, knocking on doors, talking to folks at church, if you've decided that you want to roll up your sleeves and join with me and change this country, block by block, neighborhood by neighborhood, county by county, state by state, then I promise you this -- we will not just win Florida. We will win this general election, and then you and I together are going to change this country and change the world.

In his speech in Wooster, Ohio last Wednesday, Joe Biden referred to this moment as an "inflection point" on the issues of war, global warming, the economy and more.

But it is more than just that. This moment is a leverage point, in which the work you do over the next 45 days will have a greater impact than at perhaps any other point in your life.

Right now, this race is neck-and-neck. In over a dozens states, the margin between winning and losing -- the margin between a government that institutionalizes the policies and mistakes of the last eight years and an administration that brings real change to Washington -- will be the work done on the ground by ordinary people.

Over the course of the evening, we'll be showing you a number of ways in which you can get involved, no matter where you live or what your past political experience is.

This first step is simple:

Saturday: Kick Off the Campaign in West Virginia

Kevin Flynn — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 15:52:07 EDT

West Virginia State Director Tom Vogel sent out the following email today, announcing the kick off of the official campaign presence in West Virginia:

My name is Tom Vogel, and I am the West Virginia State Director for the Obama campaign. I'm excited to announce that we're on the ground in West Virginia, and this Saturday, September 13th, the campaign is holding a Statewide Volunteer Day of Action.

With less than eight weeks until Election Day, November 4th, we need your help on Saturday to knock on doors, make phone calls, and organize for change in your neighborhood.

This is a great opportunity to find out how you can help elect Barack in November, meet campaign staff and fellow supporters, and learn the strategy for November.

Find an office near you and join us this Saturday, September 13th.

At the Republican Convention, John McCain and his surrogates attacked Barack Obama and mocked the power of community organizing. You can help prove their cynicism wrong by demonstrating the strength of this grassroots movement.

Supporters like you are building a powerful organization in West Virginia that has already brought an unprecedented number of new voices into the political process.

Turn your enthusiasm for Barack into action and sign up to join our Volunteer Day of Action:

http://wv.barackobama.com/WVdayofaction

No experience is required. Campaign staff will provide you with all the support you need to help Barack this November.

Thank you for all that you do,

Tom

Tom Vogel
West Virginia State Director
Obama for America

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.

Senator Robert Byrd Endorses Obama for President

Sam Graham-Felsen — Mon, 19 May 2008 12:42:27 EDT

Breaking news from the Charleston Gazette...

Sen. Robert C. Byrd, D-W.Va., endorsed Barack Obama for president shortly after noon today, focusing on his hope to end the Iraq War.
"As people all across this great nation know, I have been one of the most outspoken opponents of the Bush administration's misguided war in Iraq and its saber rattling around the globe," Byrd said.
He said he had "no intention of involving myself in the Democratic campaign for President in the midst of West Virginia's primary election. But the stakes this November could not be higher."
Byrd praised both Obama and Hillary Clinton, saying their "integrity, honor, love for this country and strong belief in our Constitution I deeply respect...
"Barack Obama is a noble-hearted patriot and humble Christian, and he has my full faith and support," Byrd concluded.

Stay tuned for more on this critical endorsement.

UPDATE: Here is Senator Byrd's statement...

As people all across this great nation know, I have been one of the most outspoken opponents of the Bush Administration’s misguided war in Iraq and its saber rattling around the globe."

With the Bush Administration's latest request to fund this on-going war in Iraq without any attempt to start bringing our troops home, the issue of the upcoming presidential contest has been weighing heavily on my heart. The loss of life continues and the sons and daughters of tens of thousands of American families remain in harm’s way every day.

This Democratic primary campaign has been tough and competitive. I had no intention of involving myself in the Democratic campaign for President in the midst of West Virginia's primary election. But the stakes this November could not be higher."

After a great deal of thought, consideration and prayer over the situation in Iraq, I have decided that, as a superdelegate to the Democratic National Convention, I will cast my vote for Senator Barack Obama for President. Both Senators Clinton and Obama are extraordinary individuals, whose integrity, honor, love for this country and strong belief in our Constitution I deeply respect."

I believe that Barack Obama is a shining young statesman, who possesses the personal temperament and courage necessary to extricate our country from this costly misadventure in Iraq, and to lead our nation at this challenging time in history. Barack Obama is a noble-hearted patriot and humble Christian, and he has my full faith and support.

Senator Obama only needs 112 more delegates to secure the nomination. Let's do all we can to add to our delegate total by making calls to Oregon and Kentucky today! Without doubt, your voices have made a difference in previous elections, and your voices will make a difference tomorrow...

Thank You, West Virginia

Christopher Hass — Thu, 15 May 2008 17:22:19 EDT

I just wanted to say thank you for everything you did to help Barack in West Virginia.

In a state where the odds were against us, you came out, spoke up, and said you're ready for the kind of change Barack is offering.

After almost fifty contests, we've seen that each vote and delegate matters. In West Virginia, you helped secure some of the last remaining delegates -- and put Barack a big step closer to the Democratic nomination.

But the job isn't finished just yet.

The Kentucky primary is coming up on Tuesday, and fellow supporters there have already begun their final Get Out The Vote push.

Keep our momentum going by taking a trip to Kentucky in the next five days.

Or get started right away by calling Kentuckians and making sure they vote for Barack on Tuesday.

With your help, Barack can take this country in a fundamentally new direction.

I hope you'll stay involved in this grassroots movement in the weeks and months ahead.

Thank you again for everything you've done,

Ashley

Ashley Walker
West Virginia State Director
Obama for America

"I voted for Barack Obama today."

Christopher Hass — Tue, 13 May 2008 16:09:25 EDT

Earlier today, Brooke in Charleston, West Virginia sent out this message:

I live in Charleston, West Virginia. And I voted for Barack Obama today.

So did my wife. And my mother-in-law, my father-in-law, my Presbyterian pastor and his wife, my friend the retired Episcopalian priest and his wife, my bank teller, my boss, my co-worker, the lady who runs the business on the second floor of our building and her husband, the waitress at my favorite restaurant, at least two dozen of my neighbors, my State Senator, my United States Senator, my company's tech guy, my college Sociology professor, a couple who runs a bed and breakfast in Sutton, WV and several of their staff, several first time voters from my church's youth group, several more church members, the cooks at The Purple Fiddle in Thomas, WV, a local Municipal Judge and his wife, and the older lady who exited the polling place alongside my wife and I this morning.

These folks represent black and white, rich and middle class, young and old, religious and not... just like every other town in America. As Barack says, we are not as divided as our politics suggest. That being said...

Yes West Virginia Can!

Sen. Jay Rockefeller: How I'll cast my vote

Christopher Hass — Mon, 12 May 2008 16:12:56 EDT

Barack Obama is in West Virginia today, talking to people here about his love for our country and his plan for our veterans. I thought I'd take this moment to let you know why I'm supporting him for president -- and how you can make a difference in these next two days.

I'm often asked about the challenges facing our state and our country -- the lack of job opportunities and access to affordable health care, rising gas and food prices, climate change, the cost of a college education, and the war in Iraq. People want to know how we're going to deal with these problems.

We need a president who can bring America together to solve these problems -- and I know my colleague Barack Obama will be that president.

The West Virginia primary is coming up tomorrow, and we can help deliver the change America needs -- but only if every single Obama supporter in the state gets out and makes their voice heard.

It's not too late for you to help make this happen -- even if you've never participated in a campaign before. Election Day is the most important day to get involved, and folks are meeting at locations across the state and going door-to-door to help Get Out The Vote for Barack. Many are even taking the day off to help out.

There's a meeting place near you, so sign up for an Election Day GOTV shift.

Barack Obama grew up humbly, excelled in school, and started his career in public service fighting for laid-off steelworkers. He knows what it takes to raise strong families, protect our manufacturing base, and honor our veterans.

I believe our state needs a president who is authentic and unafraid -- a smart, tough, unifying leader who will put real people first. And I know Barack Obama is the right person for the job.

We're on a path to securing this nomination -- but first we need to finish the job here in West Virginia. I hope I can count on you to spend even an hour or two on Tuesday knocking on doors, talking to voters, and helping Barack to a strong finish here.

Thank you for believing in Barack as much as I do,

- Senator Jay Rockefeller

'Obama stresses care for vets at Charleston visit'

State Update — Mon, 12 May 2008 16:07:57 EDT

From the Huntington Herald-Dispatch:

Sen. Barack Obama stressed the need to care for returning veterans and expand opportunities for Americans before a crowd of hundreds of supporters inside the Charleston Civic Center one day before West Virginia’s presidential primary.

“There’s an election here tomorrow,” Obama said to a packed house of applause and cheers.

Obama said he was honored to have the support of many West Virginians, but understood that many more in the state would likely support Sen. Hillary Clinton, to which the crowd booed.

“But when it’s over, what will unify us as Democrats and what must unify us as Americans is an unyielding commitment to the men and women that serve this nation,” he said. “Without that commitment, many of us wouldn’t be here today.”

Obama went on to mention his plans for a 21st century Veterans Administration, zero tolerance for homeless veterans, and increased screening and services for veterans with post traumatic stress disorders and traumatic brain injuries.

He also addressed the need for more affordable education for all Americans, and to free the nation from dependence on foreign oil and bring gas prices down.

Obama supporters began lining up for the afternoon speech around 9:30 a.m. at the Civic Center.

Ann Landers, 48, of New Martinsville came with her “Obama buddy,” another West Virginia woman she met through volunteering.

“I’ve never been involved with politics before, but I think he’s something special,” Landers said. “I think he can really make a difference in this country.”

Landers’ friend, Carolyn Sterns, 68, of Sistersville, used to be an active Republican.

“We reached the end of our rope. It’s a no brainer,” Sterns said. “I haven’t seen a candidate like him for many years.”

Landers said there’s probably never been a candidate like Obama.

...Sterns said Obama is the candidate who has it all – including plans and the backbone to follow through on those plans.

Susan Harcum traveled from Fredericksburg, Va., to hear Obama with her sisters. Two of her sisters live in Ohio and one resides in the Charleston area. She said the group has been going door-to-door recently to speak to residents on Obama’s behalf.

Senator Obama in West Virginia: Serving Our Veterans is "True Test of Patriotism"

Sam Graham-Felsen — Mon, 12 May 2008 12:56:50 EDT

In Charleston, West Virginia, Senator Obama urged America to do better in keeping faith with our returning veterans and outlined his plans to improve care from enlistment through retirement and beyond. Obama is a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee and has consistently fought for better treatment and screening for our troops and their families, and has made zero tolerance for veterans homelessness a hallmark of his agenda.

“We must never forget that honoring this service and upholding these ideals requires more than saluting our veterans as they march by on Veterans Day or Memorial Day,” Senator Obama said today. “It requires marching with them for the care and benefits they have earned. It requires standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our veterans and their families after the guns fall silent and the cameras are turned off. At a time when we’re facing the largest homecoming since the Second World War, the true test of our patriotism is whether we will serve our returning heroes as well as they’ve served us.”

Obama was introduced at today’s event by Senator Jay Rockefeller, and was joined by former Secretary Richard Danzig, retired Admiral John Natham of the U.S. Navy and retired General Jim Smith of the U.S. Air Force.

Continue reading for his full remarks as prepared for deilvery...

West Virginia: Take Action This Weekend

State Update — Sat, 10 May 2008 15:23:03 EDT

The West Virginia primary is coming up this Tuesday, May 13th. With your help, we've already generated a movement built on hope and change that's inspired thousands of folks across the Mountain State.

But we can't get complacent now. This weekend, grassroots supporters in West Virginia and across the country are working to Get Out The Vote in the final push before Primary Day. We're fighting an uphill battle in West Virginia, but by ensurning that all of our supporters make it to the polls, we can add to our delegate lead and continue to close in on the nomination.

Here are a few ways that you can take action and make a difference right now:

Early Voting

If you live in West Virginia, you don't have to wait until Tuesday to vote for Barack. Early Voting is underway now, but tomorrow is the last day to vote early in West Virginia.

If you haven't already voted early for Barack, head to your county clerk's office tomorrow and make sure that your voice is heard right away. Early voting locations will be open on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Independents can support Barack by voting early as well, but be sure to request a Democratic ballot when you arrive at your polling location.

Find your early vote location and cast your ballot for Barack tomorrow.

Canvassing

From the start, our campaign has counted on grassroots organization and face-to-face conversations to bring as many people as possible into this movement.

If you live in West Virginia, the single most important thing you can do for this campaign is to talk with people in your community about why you support Barack and the type of change we're working to bring about.

GOTV meeting locations are being organized across the state. You can find a location near you and help us Get Out The Vote in your area this weekend.

Attend Events

You can also get involved by stopping by a local Obama office, or by participating in one of the many grassroots events being organized by local supporters across West Virginia this weekend.

Make Calls

No matter where you live, you can help GOTV in West Virginia by making calls now. Our online calling campaign runs from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM EST every day from now until the close of polls on Tuesday.

This weekend is our last chance to make a difference in West Virginia before Primary Day. What we do over the next few days will help ensure that Barack has the support he needs to win as many votes and delegates as possible on Tuesday.

West Virginia Leaders Announce Support for Barack Obama

State Update — Fri, 09 May 2008 17:50:42 EDT

Days after Barack Obama's decisive win in North Carolina and a tight finish in Indiana, leaders across the Mountain State announced their endorsement of Barack Obama as the best person to unify and lead our country.

Today West Virginia state senators, delegates, sheriffs and Democratic party chairs joined Senator Jay Rockefeller and the state's only member of Congress to endorse, Nick Rahall, in supporting Barack Obama. Obama has also received the endorsement of West Virginia State Auditor Glen Gainer III.

"I have chosen to endorse Barack Obama because he has inspired our nation and will unify the country," said West Virginia State Senator Jeffrey Kessler (D-Marshall). "We need a leader who will finally deliver on the challenges facing our nation, including affordable health care for all, quality education and restoring our nation's standing in the world. That leader is Barack Obama."

"Barack Obama understands the needs of West Virginians," said Delegate John Doyle. "He has a solid plan to revitalize our nation's economy and as a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, he has been a strong advocate for our nation's veterans."

Here is the list of West Virginia leaders who endorsed Barack Obama today:

Sen. Dan Foster (Kanawha County)

Sen. Jon Blair Hunter (Mon County)

Sen. Jeff Kessler (Marshall)

Del. John Doyle (Jefferson County)

Del. Ron Fragale (Harrison County)

Del. Charlene Marshall (Mon County)

Del. Clif Moore (McDowell County)

Del. Alex Shook (Mon County)

Sheriff John Gruzinskas (Marshall)

Jerry Brookover (Chair, Wirt County Exec Committee)

The following West Virginia leaders have previously announced their endorsements of Barack Obama:

Ken Hechler, former Congressman and West Virginia Secretary of State

Glen B. Gainer III Auditor

Del. Tal Hutchins (Ohio County)

Sen. Larry Edgell (Wetzel County)

Mayor Emmett Pugh (Beckley)

Sheriff Tom Burgoyne (Ohio County)

Commissioner David Sims (Ohio County)

John Saunders (former USW local president, Ohio County Dem co-chair)

Frank Slider (Tyler County Chair)

'Blogging with the Obama Campaign in Mercer County'

State Update — Wed, 07 May 2008 14:42:24 EDT

Here's a great example of what grassroots supporters are doing across West Virginia, from West Virginia Blue:

There is no way you could convince me that we don't have Barack Obama supporters in our state.

Elena Bailey came in from Hinton to conduct the first Barack Obama field meeting in our county. We had what I consider to be an outstanding turnout with over 30 folks turning out to not only support Senator Obama, but to actually volunteer to work on his behalf in Mercer and McDowell counties.

Four folks from McDowell County who are all educators and one from Tazewell County in VA were at the meeting. Inspiring group of folks... the message comes out loud and clear. This group is willing to work their butts off to get Barack Obama in the White House.

As they introduced themselves I picked up a true feeling that this is an inspired group that honestly believes in Barack as a candidate.

By the way, one of the other organizers--Roger Lowe from Charleston, who has worked with the campaign throughout the country--was in awe of the number of folks who took time on their weekend to help get Barack Obama elected at this meeting.

The first goal for the group was to set up volunteer Precinct Captains, and to actually start canvassing TODAY [April 26]. Target areas for the first canvass include Welch in McDowell County, and Bluefield in Mercer County.

There were several walk packs prepared, and plans are in place to make canvassing or phone banking happen literally every day between now and the primary.

It looks like the main goal of the Obama campaign is to get as much face to face contact with volunteers and voters as possible.

Many of those attending are actually getting involved in the process for the first time in their lives. A lot of time was spent demonstrating to everybody what is involved in actually getting the message across to potential voters. In the years I have been involved in this area I find that there are very few of us that have actually participated in canvassing and phone banking.

I think that the Obama organization is on the right track in working and training folks in the field to get Obama as many votes as possible in the state.

Attend a West Virginia Watch Party Tomorrow!

Christopher Hass — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:33:19 EDT

Tomorrow, the eyes of the country will be watching the outcome of the crucial Indiana and North Carolina primaries.

But here in the Mountain State, we'll be watching for a different reason.

West Virginia is the next state to vote in this election after tomorrow -- and with just one week to go before the May 13th primary, we need to be organized.

Tuesday evening, all across the state, supporters are coming together to watch the May 6th primary results come in. These Watch Parties are our best chance to organize before the spotlight turns to West Virginia, so it's crucial that as many people as possible attend.

There are Watch Parties all across the state -- find the one near you and come join in the excitement:

7:00 p.m. Beckley Watch Party
7:00 p.m. Morgantown Watch Party
5:00 p.m. Charleston Watch Party & Phonebank
7:30 p.m. Parkersburg Watch Party
7:00 p.m. Sutton Watch Party
7:00 p.m. Fairmont Watch Party
6:00 p.m. Weirton Watch Party
5:00 p.m. Fayette Watch Party & Canvass
7:00 p.m. Wheeling Watch Party
5:00 p.m. Martinsburg Watch Party & Phonebank

If you don't see a Watch Party near you, find another event here.

As one of the final six states to vote, West Virginia is playing an increasingly vital role in this election.

In the coming week, we'll have the chance show the entire country how strong our movement is -- and secure some of the last available delegates for Barack.

But we can't do this without your help, so I hope you'll come to a Watch Party tomorrow and be a part of our final push here in West Virginia.

Hope to see you tomorrow,

Ashley

Ashley Walker
West Virginia State Director
Obama for America

Obama Offices Gear-Up across West Virginia

State Update — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:12:47 EDT

Our campaign is running at full-speed in the Mountain State. To date, we've opened eight offices in West Virginia, and volunteers and staffers at these offices and across the state continue to build our movement in advance of Primary Day on May 13th.

If you want to get involved, drop by your local office and help us continue to build momentum in your area.

Here are some news reports chronicling our recent office openings and the work being down by grassroots supporters in West Virginia.

[Photo compliments of West Virginia Blue]

From the Huntington Herald-Dispatch:

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama has opened a campaign office in Huntington, and the event was celebrated with a little help from U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall Saturday [April 26th].
Campaign offices in Clarksburg, Martinsburg and Parkersburg were also opened this weekend and featured Democratic speakers and state representatives, along with Rahall and U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller. With the addition of the new offices, the total number of regional campaign headquarters for Obama in West Virginia is eight including established offices in Beckley, Charleston, Morgantown, and Wheeling.

Volunteers crowded in the office space located at the corner 4th Avenue and 8th Street to help the Senator from Illinois win the nomination against his opponent Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-NY. Rahall explained to the crowd why he enthusiastically supports Obama.

"I'll be the first person to support our Democratic nominee no matter who he or she is," Rahall said. "But I am secure in my support for Barack Obama as the next president of the United States."

Obama campaign spokesman Tom Bowen said campaign personnel will be in the Mountain State managing volunteers up until the May 13 primary. On Saturday, local residents crowded into the headquarters and signed up to volunteer.

The campaign is focused on getting more volunteers to make phone calls and sign up for "precinct captains." Precinct captains, Bowen said, are responsible for overseeing the efforts of volunteers in their district, talking to neighbors about Obama and volunteering themselves in any way to benefit the campaign.

Huntington resident Victoria Wilburn said she signed up to be a precinct captain because she believes Obama is the only candidate running who can change the country and unite the country behind one leader. Wilburn hoped more people get involved in the campaign.

"I'm really hoping West Virginia gets behind him and catapults him to victory," she said. "The issues he's concerned about, whether you're rich or poor, black or white, affect everyone in some way shape or form."

If you are interested in volunteering for the Obama campaign locally contact their Huntington Headquarters at (304) 377-9443 or visit their office on 4th Avenue and 8th Street. The offices are open seven days a week beginning at 9 a.m.

continue reading . . .

Join Us at an Early Vote House Party Tomorrow

State Update — Fri, 02 May 2008 14:15:26 EDT

Tomorrow, Saturday, May 3rd is the first Saturday of early voting in West Virginia.

To celebrate, Obama supporters across West Virginia are opening up their homes and inviting friends, neighbors, fellow supporters, and undecided voters to join them for Early Vote House Parties.

At the parties, we'll talk about Barack and his vision for our country. The House Parties are also a great way to identify and mobilize supporters -- and introduce undecided voters to the kind of change we are working to bring about. As an added bonus, each party will be invited to join a conference call with former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Franco Harris.

After the Parties, we'll start having an impact right away by heading too our local county courthouses to early vote for Barack together.

Independents can also early vote for Barack if they request a Democratic ballot. Be sure to invite the Independents you know who are supporting Barack, and make sure they remember to ask for a Democratic ballot when you go to vote early.

Even if you never thought you'd get involved in politics in your lifetime, come check out an Early Vote House Party tomorrow. You'll have a good time, learn a little more about our movement, and help Barack in the final push for West Virginia.

Find an Early Vote House Party near you, invite your undecided friends, and sign up now.

If you can't make it to an Early Vote House Party tomorrow, don't worry--you can still make your voice heard by voting early for Barack before May 10th.

Help ensure that Barack has all the support he needs heading into the West Virginia Primary on May 13th. Find your early vote location and vote today.

Host an Early Vote House Party this Saturday

State Update — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:06:38 EDT

West Virginia's primary is coming up on Tuesday, May 13th, but you can make your voice heard today.

Early vote locations are open now through May 10th, and voting right away is the single most important way you can build our momentum in West Virginia before Primary Day.

You can cast your ballot on any weekday and also on the last two Saturdays through May 10th at your county clerk's office. If you haven't voted yet, look up your early vote location and vote for Barack today.

You can help make an even bigger impact by volunteering to host an Early Vote House Party this Saturday, May 3rd.

May 3rd is the first Saturday of early voting across West Virginia. To celebrate, supporters and precinct captains all across the state will gather at informal parties and barbecues. We'll get to know each other, and then early vote together at our county courthouses.

These parties are a great opportunity to identify and mobilize supporters. The parties are also a great way to introduce undecided voters to Barack and his vision for changing our country.

Sign up today, and a local field organizer will get in touch and help you plan your event. If you can't host an Early Vote Party this Saturday, you can still participate by attending one in your area.

The West Virginia primary is less than two weeks away, and we need your help now to ensure that the momentum we've built continues to grow before May 13th.

Obama Offices Bustle, Voter Registration at All-Time High

State Update — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:48:32 EDT

From the Charleston Daily Mail:

They've taken over stripped-down vacant downtown offices and converted them into modern political war rooms.

What were barren storefronts a few weeks ago are now flush with telephones, computers, poster board-plastered walls and other instruments of campaign combat.

With West Virginia now serving as a key battleground state for the Democratic presidential nomination, the campaigns for Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton have set up shop in Charleston, just a few blocks from one another.

For Obama supporters, the location is 1021 Quarrier St.

... [The site] bustles with action from dawn to dusk, seven days a week, as only 15 days remain until the May 13 primary.

... Over at Obama headquarters Friday morning, a group of twenty-something staff members lugged boxes of campaign literature into their office before settling down into a work circle, laptops in hand planning out the weekend's festivities.

The outside is decorated with a colorful illustration of Obama with the word, "HOPE," and a handmade red, white and blue "WV For Obama" banner.

Obama has a total of eight offices across the state, while Clinton's campaign only has its Charleston location for now.

... Tom Bowen, spokesman for Obama, said the senator's multiple offices in the state represents his desire to win West Virginia and spread his message through different communities.

"Barack is a community organizer," said Bowen, who worked for Obama in 2004. "We're hitting hard across the state."

From the Associated Press:

As Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton continue to battle for every last Democratic convention delegate, the resulting interest in West Virginia's May 13 primary has helped push the state's voter rolls to a record-high 1.18 million.

But while Democrats remain the majority party in the Mountain State, their decision to open their primary to unaffiliated voters also appears a factor behind the increase.

These voters account for nearly half of the growth seen since the last statewide election, in 2006. And while both Democrats and Republicans have actually seen drops in their ranks since 2004, when total registration hit a 52-year high, new unaffiliated voters more than offset their declines.

... A dozen of the larger counties account for nearly 60 percent of the 46,124 voters added since 2006. They include Cabell and Monongalia, where officials cite registration drives focused on college students and other young people. Several of these counties attribute some of their new voters to efforts by Obama supporters.

"The Obama campaign, I understand, was very active'' before the April 22 registration deadline, state Democratic Party Chairman Nick Casey said. He added that he suspects the Clinton camp was similarly engaged.

The dueling presidential campaigns have also spurred the turnout of early voting, which began Wednesday. Officials in Berkeley, Cabell, Jefferson, Kanawha and Monongalia counties together fielded nearly 2,000 early ballots by mid-Friday. McCormick said a sizable contingent of Obama volunteers arrived to vote early on Thursday.

"It picks up a little bit every day,'' she said. "It seems that the last week of early voting, that's when it's the busiest. It seems to get more popular every year.''

The Obama campaign added offices in Clarksburg, Huntington, Martinsburg and Parkersburg over the weekend to an in-state presence that already included locales in Beckley, Charleston, Morgantown, and Wheeling.

Fmr. Congressman Ken Hechler Endorses Barack Obama

State Update — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:16:07 EDT

Today [April 28] former West Virginia Secretary of State and United States Congressman Ken Hechler endorsed Senator Barack Obama for president, citing Obama's ability to bring the country together and change Washington. Hechler, also a former professor at Marshall University, discussed Obama's ability to inspire Americans and bring lasting change to this country.

"I've taught courses on the presidency and great presidents are able to inspire and communicate. The last four great ones were Teddy Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, John Kennedy and Ronald Regan. Obama has that same tremendous inspirational ability and he, among all the candidates, will be able to lead this country.

"As Secretary of State, I know what it takes to win votes and Senator Obama has a very strong record with Independents and he has successfully energized young people to participate. Thousands of young people reach the age of 18 and don't register, but Obama is inspiring them. With Obama in the White House, we will make tremendous progress in restoring the prestige of this nation throughout the world," said Hechler.

Kenneth William Hechler was born September 20, 1914. He served the people of West Virginia in the United States Congress from 1959-1977 and as West Virginia Secretary of State in 1984. He served as an Army Historian from 1942-1946, was a special assistant to President Truman from 1949-1953 and taught at Marshall University from 1981-1984. He resides in Charleston, WV.

Here's a list of some other West Virginians who endorsed Barack Obama this week, compliments of the Huntingon Herald-Dispatch:

Groups have issued endorsements for candidates in local and national campaigns.

On Tuesday, leaders and legislators from the Northern Panhandle endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for president, citing his ability to unite the country and bring real change that matters to West Virginia's families.

Obama received the endorsement of the following Democratic leaders from the Northern Panhandle: Sen. Larry Edgell, D- Wetzel; former Sen. John Chernenko, D- Brooke County; Delegate Tal Hutchins, D- Ohio County; Ohio County Sheriff Tom Burgoyne; Ohio County Commissioner David Sims; Ohio County Democratic Party Co-Chair John Saunders; Tyler County Democratic Party Co-Chair Frank Slider.

In another endorsement, former West Virginia Secretary of State and former U.S. Rep Ken Hechler, a Democrat, also endorsed Obama for president.

Join Us for Obama Events this Weekend

State Update — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:49:36 EDT

Thanks to grassroots supporters and local organizers like you, our campaign in West Virginia is off to a fast start.

We've registered thousands of voters and reached out to tens of thousands of West Virginians who've felt left out by the politics of the past. And every day, folks like you are working hard to introduce even more people to our movement and our message of change.

To build on this momentum, we're holding a number of events this weekend. We're opening four new offices — to bring our statewide total to eight — and holding other organizing events all across the Mountain State.

In addition, early voting is already underway in West Virginia. This means that you don't have to wait another day to cast your vote for Barack Obama — you can cast your ballot on any weekday and also on the last two Saturdays through May 10th at your county clerk's office.

If you've ever thought about supporting Barack, now is the time. Find your early vote location and make sure your voice is heard right away.

Get involved and get excited: find an event and join us this weekend.

Letter From West Virginia: "My grandfather is still hopeful'

Christopher Hass — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 14:42:36 EDT

Today we received a letter from a supporter in West Virginia, sharing her grandfather's experience in Johnstown, Pennsylvania:

I am writing to tell you about my grandfather in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. I read this morning, the dawn of the Pennsylvania primary, an article about the so-called age divide that has pervaded this primary election, with the Clinton campaign cleaning the pre-Internet, pinochle playing, elderly citizens of Pennsylvania and the Obama campaign sweeping the younger voting populations. I do not believe we, the American people, can be so neatly divided.

My grandfather, Frederick, 91, recognized a profound truth in Senator Barack Obama’s message of hope and exercise of change, a truth that for him transcended age, race, and even party lines. My grandfather has been a registered Republican his entire life. Even during these times, when the heavy weight of serious issues is upon us and our President has disheartened even those within his own party, my grandfather has sworn to go to his grave a registered Republican. Today, Frederick, 91, registered Democrat, is voting for Barack Obama.

... I recently watched an ad by the Clinton campaign evoking images of the Great Depression and World War II. These images are meant to remind voters, particularly those who remember and were shaped by those times of the fear and suffering that encompass our existence. My grandfather was raised, in Johnstown, by a widowed mother, of German descent during the Great Depression and served in World War II as an airplane mechanic in Texas and New Mexico. Other images also play in my grandfather’s memory: such as two Johnstown floods and stories of the 1889 Great Johnstown Flood when a young aunt and uncle on a rooftop, perished when the house foundation gave way, or memories of Bethlehem Steel Company closing (after the war he returned to Johnstown to work in the mill for 35 years) and later, along with other retirees, losing his benefits.

Today, my grandfather’s thoughts are on issues that will affect his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: the war in Iraq, the weakening economy, the warming of our planet and our struggling healthcare and educational systems. My grandfather, body aged and bent, has his clear blue eyes focused on today’s horizon. He is no stranger to fear and suffering; yet, he has not surrendered to it. My grandfather is still hopeful. He is hopeful because a man, 44 years younger, is running for president on a platform of hope and change that is as old as this nation. Today, history continues to speak and Barack Obama gives voice to the dreams of our ancestors; dreams that ended the Great Depression, dreams that fought against the fear and divisions that marked the Second World War, dreams that helped a city rebuild after a great flood, and dreams that today can end the war in Iraq, rebuild our economy, and heal our country. It is these dreams, of my grandfather, his mother and his father (who as a young man immigrated to the United States from Germany), and the founding families of this country that will unite the American people to face the great challenges that affect us all: old and young, white and black, Democrat and Republican.

Sincerely, a devoted granddaughter,
Megan
Oak Hill, WV

Vote Early for Barack

State Update — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:56:36 EDT

Voter registration in West Virginia closed yesterday, and now we need your help taking the next step.

The West Virginia primary is coming up on Tuesday, May 13th, but you don't have to wait another day to cast your vote for Barack Obama.

Voters in West Virginia have a unique opportunity to make their voices heard right now by participating in early voting. You can cast your ballot on any weekday and also on the last two Saturdays through May 10th at your county clerk's office.

With the Pennsylvania primary behind us, the eyes of the country are turning to West Virginia and the other remaining contests. Here in the Mountain State, you have an amazing opportunity to help finish this race and lock-up the nomination for Barack.

Participating in early voting is also a great way to broadcast your support for Barack to friends, family, and neighbors. Your actions now will help us continue to build momentum in West Virginia.

Find your early vote location and vote for Barack today.

In addition to voting early, you can also help Barack by signing up to host an Early Vote House Party on May 3rd. These parties will be fun, informal ways for you to meet with fellow Barack supporters, and then head to early vote locations together and make sure your voices are heard right away.

Let us know if you'd like to host an Early Vote House Party on May 3rd.

Voter Registration Deadline Today

Christopher Hass — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:10:57 EDT

Today is a crucial deadline in West Virginia -- it's the last day to register in order to vote for Barack in the May 13th primary.

There's still time to register, but you must act now.

You have to be registered as a Democrat or No-Party to vote for Barack in the primary. If you're not yet registered, take some time this morning or during lunch and register.

If you haven't downloaded a registration form, you can do so now. Make sure to mail your form today, or drop it off at your local county clerks office.

You can where to mail or drop off your form here.

If you're already registered, make a difference today by making sure that all of your friends and family members supporting Barack are registered.

You can use our online form to email your friends and family and remind them that today is the deadline to register to vote for Barack on May 13th.

P.S. -- Today is also the day of the Pennsylvania primary, and across West Virginia, Obama supporters are gathering at grassroots parties to join in the excitement and watch the results come in.

At the parties, we'll discuss ways to build our momentum in the final weeks before the May 13th West Virginia primary.

Find a party near you and watch the Pennsylvania results come in.

Voter Registration Deadline Tuesday

Christopher Hass — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 20:58:35 EDT

Voter registration is about more than just politics -- it's about encouraging folks to get involved in a process they've felt left out of for far too long.

In more than 40 contests so far, that's exactly what we've seen. Millions of people have voted for the first time or come back after years of frustration. Supporters like you have reached out to friends and neighbors and worked to bring about the kind of change we need.

I know we can make this happen in West Virginia -- but only if you take ownership of this effort.

The next two days are our best chance to bring new voices into the political process -- the deadline to register in order to vote in the May 13th primary is this Tuesday, April 22nd. It's more important than ever that you get involved in your community and help register voters.

Supporters are gathering at locations across the state tomorrow.

We have only a few days before the deadline -- and thousands of potential supporters to reach.

I hope I can count on your help.

Thank you,

Barack

Senator Dodd Campaigns for Barack in Morgantown

Christopher Hass — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 20:09:41 EDT

Senator Chris Dodd came to Morgantown yesterday to open up Senator Obama's fourth field office in the state. Watch news coverage from the event here. Senator Dodd then headed down to Clarksburg to visit the Harrison County Democrats and promote Senator Obama's message of change.

You can sign up now to volunteer at our new Morgantown office.

Students: Your Chance to Meet Barack

Christopher Hass — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 10:48:47 EDT

West Virginia's voter registration deadline is coming up this Tuesday, April 22nd, and we have a special challenge for all West Virginia college students.

Everywhere from Washington State to South Carolina, this movement has inspired young people to get involved in the political process, often for the first time in their lives. In the coming days, you can take ownership of this effort.

From now through Tuesday, college students are encouraged to register new voters at their school. Students should return completed forms as possible to their local Obama office or organizer. Those who turn in the most valid forms will have the chance to meet Barack on an upcoming visit to the Mountain State.

Find the details and let us know you're up to the challenge.

All West Virginia college students are eligible to participate -- and anyone who registers at least 15 new voters or new Democrats will be entered for a chance to meet Barack.

Additional students from the college or university that turns in the most registration forms will be selected to meet Barack -- so be sure to recruit friends and classmates to participate in the challenge with you!

In order to count towards the contest, all registration forms must be submitted to your local field staff organizer by 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22nd.

Find your local office and sign up to participate now.

Thank you for all that you do,

Rachel

Rachel Sigman
West Virginia Field Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- If you are not registered, be sure to register before Tuesday's deadline.

Saturday: Beckley HQ Grand Opening

Christopher Hass — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 21:11:20 EDT

This Saturday, April 19th at 11:00 a.m., join Congressman Nick Rahall at the grand opening of our Obama for America Beckley Headquarters.

Come meet our staff, get to know fellow supporters in the area, and learn how you can make a difference for Barack heading into the May 13th primary.

Here are the details:

Obama for America Beckley Headquarters
Grand Opening
128 Harper Court
Beckley, WV

Saturday, April 19th
11:00 a.m.

P.S. - Don't forget that the voter registration deadline is Tuesday, April 22nd. Make sure that you and your friends, family, and neighbors are registered to vote.

Obama Inspires Ohio County Convention Delegates

State Update — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 15:44:56 EDT

From the Intelligencer/Wheeling News-Register:

Ohio County’s delegation to the West Virginia Democratic Convention this summer largely will support U.S. Sen. Barack Obama for president.

About 50 registered county Democrats turned out for the Ohio County convention Saturday to show their interest in this year’s election and participate in the selection of the delegates. Most all wore T-shirts or pins supporting Obama, D-Ill.

Ohio County is to send 44 delegates to the state convention. County party officials estimated that among those signing on Saturday to be delegates, 40 supported Obama.

All of West Virginia’s counties on Saturday held county Democratic conventions to select delegates to the state convention set for June 13-14 at the Charleston Civic Center. At the state convention, West Virginia’s delegation to the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 25-28 in Denver will be selected.

… James Guy, 33, an Obama supporter, was among the organizers at the convention.

“I’ve always been involved in politics, but Senator Obama has inspired me,” Guy said. “I believe this man is perfectly suited to lead the nation.

“It’s time for new leadership, and I believe he is the one to build a bridge into the 21st century — not take us back to the 20th century.”

… Owens Brown, 56, said he sees Obama as a candidate who could bring people together during difficult times.

“He has great leadership skills and a positive message,” Brown said of Obama. “We need it to be positive in these times.”

Obama supporter Remington Markos, 20, a communications/journalism student at West Virginia Northern Community College, sees Obama as a candidate of change who could unify different factions in the nation.

“And he care more about people than money unlike the majority of candidates,” Markos said. “He accepts no contributions from interest groups.”

As a college student, Markos said it will be financially difficult for him to go to Charleston. Delegates must pay their own expenses, though Charleston hotels are offering the delegates a special rate of $88 a night for the convention.

The delegates likely will car pool to Charleston, and they plan to hold fundraisers to cover expenses there and to Denver if any local delegates are selected to go to the national convention.

About 1,500 delegates from counties throughout West Virginia will go to the state convention. Locally, Brooke County will send 24 delegates to the state convention; Hancock, 28; Marshall, 28; Ohio, 44; Tyler, 8; and Wetzel, 18.

Attend a Debate Watch Party Tonight

Christopher Hass — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:24:32 EDT

Tonight, Wednesday, April 16th, Barack will be participating in a Democratic candidates debate in Pennsylvania.

Across West Virginia, Obama supporters are gathering at debate watch parties to support Barack and discuss ways to build our movement here leading up to the May 13th primary.

Find a debate watch party near you and sign up now.

Every day, more and more people across the state are seeing that Barack is the one candidate who can bring about change we can believe in.

But with the West Virginia primary just one month away, we must act quickly to make sure every potential Obama supporter is registered and ready to vote for Barack on Primary Day.

Watch parties are a great way to meet fellow Obama supporters in your community, learn more about our grassroots movement for change, and find ways you can start organizing right away.

Find a debate watch party near you and get involved.

Thanks,

Rachel

Rachel Sigman
West Virginia Field Director
Obama for America

West Virginia County Convention Reports

Christopher Hass — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 19:56:16 EDT

West Virginia Democrats gathered throughout the state today to hold their County Conventions. These conventions are a prelude to the state's May 13th primary, and although the results do not impact the number of delegates that each candidate will ultimately receive from the state, they do give an indication of the level of grassroots support on the ground right now.

A West Virginia supporter posted a detailed account of the Berkeley County Convention, where 50 of the 52 delegates elected at the county convention were Obama supporters:

Basically we elected delegates at the county level who'll be electing delegates at the state level. However, the delegates will be selected to the national convention proportional to the votes their candidates received. The primary vote still matters (voting runs from April 23 to May 13 in West Virginia since we have early voting). What this shows is the enthusiasm gap in the state and also could very well signal turnout for the primary.

A number of people have reported their convention results on West Virginia Blue, and at many locations the support for Barack was overwhelming.

If you're from West Virginia and attended a County Convention today, let us know how things went in the comments below.

Organizing in West Virginia

Christopher Hass — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 17:53:18 EDT

All week long, our newly arrived field staff held organizational meetings across West Virginia to connect with grassroots supporters and prepare for the state's May 13th primary.

Field Director Rachel Sigman reported:

We had a great week of Organizational meetings. Over 400 people across the state attended the meetings, and they are fired up to get out and talk to their neighbors and register new voters.

Today also marked the official opening of the state headquarters in Charleston. There are dozens of events taking place in the coming days, including canvassing, voter registration drives, and phonebanking. As campaign spokeswoman Amy Brundage explained to the Charleston Gazette:

Our campaign is focused on building a true grass-roots organization in West Virginia ahead of the May 13 primary. We are going to work hard to bring new West Virginia voters into our movement for change and bring Senator Obama's message to working families across the state.

Visit WV.BarackObama.com for more news and information from West Virginia, and to find out how you can get involved. And if you're on the ground in West Virgina, let us know how things are going in the comments below.

West Virginia Headquarters Opening Today

Christopher Hass — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 12:51:38 EDT

West Virginia's primary is just five weeks away now, and starting this weekend the state headquarters in Charleston will be open for business. Supporters and volunteers are invited to celebrate the grand opening of the new office at 5:30 p.m. today, April 12th. The Charleston heaquarters will be the first Democratic presidential campaign office in West Virginia.

West Virginia State Director Ashley Walker explained that:

We are focused on building a true grassroots organization in West Virginia ahead of the May 13th primary and will work hard to reach out to bring new voters into the process. Our Charleston headquarters will give our supporters and volunteers an opportunity to get involved on the ground level and help grow Barack Obama's movement for change in Charleston and across the state.

The Charleston headquarters will soon be the hub of activity in Kanawha county, but our grassroots supporters are already active across the state. There are dozens of events taking place over the coming weeks, including organizational meetings, voter registration drives, and phonebanking.

If you live in the Charleston area and would like to attend the grand opening of the new headquarters, here are the details:

Charleston Headquarters Grand Opening with Special Guest Senator Jay Rockefeller
Saturday, April 12th, 2008
5:30 PM

Obama for America Charleston Headquarters
1021 Quarrier St
Charleston, WV 25301

For more information, you can contact the Obama for America Charleston headquarters at 304-346-2616.

Visit WV.BarackObama.com for more news and information from West Virginia.

The Big Picture: The Importance of Tomorrow's County Conventions

State Update — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:08:17 EDT

Earlier we posted information highlighting the importance tomorrow's Democratic county conventions. The local news media seems to agree - as shown in today's Intelligencer/Wheeling News-Register:

Democratic Party members from throughout West Virginia will be gathering at 55 county conventions on Saturday, for the purpose of selecting delegates to their state convention. We encourage Democrats eager to have an impact on the political process to attend conventions in their counties.

The process of selecting political parties’ nominees for president, once relatively simple, has become a complicated one. At first glance, some Democrats may wonder just how important the county conventions are in the overall process.

They are very important, simply because they will be used to select those who will represent delegates to the state convention, who are intended to reflect the desires of Democrats at the local level. Some of those named at the county conventions may find themselves picked to become delegates to the Democratic Party’s national convention in Denver, scheduled to be held in August. Eighteen of West Virginia’s 39 delegates to the national event will be selected at the state convention, which will be held June 13-14 in Charleston.

Campaign 2008 has become a contentious one for Democrats, as Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama continue to vie for the nomination for president...In other words, Mountain State Democrats indeed may be important in deciding whether Obama or Clinton becomes the party’s standard-bearer.

It is important, then, for Democrats to take part in the process — the “nuts and bolts” of which begin on Saturday.

County conventions for the Northern Panhandle include:

Brooke County — Follansbee Public Library, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hancock County —County courthouse in New Cumberland, beginning at 9 a.m.

Marshall County — County courthouse in Moundsville, beginning at 10 a.m.

Ohio County — Carpenter’s Hall at 56 19th St., Wheeling, beginning at 1 p.m.

Tyler County — County courthouse in Middlebourne, starting at 10 a.m.

Wetzel County — New Martinsville City Hall, beginning at 10 a.m.

Once again: If you are a Democrat who wants to make a difference in the party and, quite possibly, for the nation, we urge you to participate in your county’s convention.

Tomorrow's County Conventions are an amazing chance to build on our momentum in West Virginia — and help secure additional delegates for Barack.

If you are able to attend your County Convention tomorrow, please RSVP now.

Attend a County Convention this Saturday

State Update — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 18:05:50 EDT

Tomorrow is one of our best chances to make a difference for Barack in West Virginia. This Saturday, April 12th, Democrats across the state will gather at County Conventions.

These conventions are a major step in the process that will assign West Virginia's delegates to the Democratic National Convention, and it's crucial that Obama supporters in every county attend.

Let us know you'll be attending your County Convention this Saturday — a local Obama organizer will be in touch to help make sure you are ready for Convention Day.

The County Convention process is easy and fun — here's all you need to do:

Go to your county convention on Saturday. You can look up your county convention location and time or call 304-346-2616.
Stand together with other Obama supporters. You can even wear an Obama pin or sticker so you'll be easier to identify.
Elect delegates who support Barack. The delegates will serve at the State Convention on June 13th-14th and will help secure as many national delegates as possible for Barack. You can run to be a delegate too!

This race is still very close, and after more than 40 contests, one thing is certain — every state, every vote, and every delegate counts.

Tomorrow's County Conventions are an amazing chance to build on our momentum in West Virginia — and help secure additional delegates for Barack.

If you are able to attend your County Convention tomorrow, please RSVP now.

Read on for a description of the County Convention process . . .

Charleston Gazette Endorses Barack Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:50:00 EDT

The Charleston Gazette has endorsed Barack Obama for president...

For the first time since the historic 1960 primary election, the Democratic presidential nomination remains hotly contested as West Virginians prepare to vote. So this state's Democrats and independents may, once again, help decide U.S. history.

We hope they support the brilliant, inspiring, eloquent frontrunner in the race, Barack Obama.

Sen. Obama is a rare figure in U.S. politics - a deep thinker who rises above partisan sniping and makes statecraft seem noble. He raises hope that, after the disastrous Bush years mercifully come to an end, Americans can again be proud of their national leader.

Obama appeals to the innate decency in all groups of people, beyond party lines, without personal grandiosity. He fosters a desire to restore America's finest values of honor and fairness.

In endorsing Obama, Sen. Jay Rockefeller pointed out that the young Illinois lawyer had to work hard - "there was nothing sheltered about his life" - but he rose to national stature. Rockefeller said Obama was far-sighted enough to oppose President Bush's unwise plan to invade Iraq while most others, including rival Hillary Clinton, supported the invasion.

"The indisputable fact is, Barack Obama was right about Iraq when many of us were wrong," the West Virginia senator said. "It was a tough call and the single greatest national security question - and mistake - of our time. ... What matters most in the Oval Office is sound judgment and decisive action. It's about getting it right on crucial national security questions the first time, and every time."

If you're in West Virginia, check out WV.BarackObama.com to find out how you can get involved locally. For folks elsewhere around the country, you can make an impact in West Virginia right now by picking up the phone -- head to My.BarackObama.com/call today!

UPDATE: Here's a comprehensive list of the over one hundred newspapers across the country that have endorsed Barack.

Find an Organizational Meeting Near You

Christopher Hass — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 17:03:11 EDT

The West Virginia primary is coming up on May 13th.

Over the next week, supporters will be getting together across the state to get organized in our communities.

No previous experience is necessary. All you need is a passion for change and a willingness to turn your enthusiasm into action.

Come to an organizing meeting near you, meet our campaign staff and fellow volunteers, and get involved.

You are an important part of a movement for change that is growing across this country. Thanks to our grassroots supporters across the country, Barack has won twice as many states, more delegates, and more votes than Senator Clinton.

But we still have a lot to do.

Look up an organizational meeting near you and sign up today.

Together we can help bring change to this country, starting right here in West Virginia.

Thanks for your help,

Rachel

Rachel Sigman
West Virginia Field Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- Make sure your voice is heard. The deadline to register as a Democrat or No-Party and support Barack in the West Virginia primary is April 22nd. Register today.

From the Mountain State: Endorsement from youngest council member in Fairmont, WV

Marc R. Peters — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 22:21:25 EDT

On November 7th, 2006, at age 20, Matthew S. Delligatti was elected as the youngest council member in the city of Fairmont, West Virginia’s history. Recently, Delligatti announced his formal endorsement of Barack Obama:

It is a truly rare occurrence that a person can ignite the otherwise tamed resource of our nation’s youth I remember in high school being drawn to President John Kennedy, Senator Robert Kennedy, and Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. not just because of what they did or what they stood for, but because they asked that generation what they could do and inspired them to achieve it. This opportunity has come again

As a high school student studying the Kennedys and Dr. King, I recognized my generation lacked that type of leader who could inspire and unite us like our parents’ generation had been inspired and united. When I was watching the telecast of the Democratic National Convention on July 27th, 2004, I discovered the man who could lead my generation into a brighter, more peaceful and prosperous future. As we all know a star was born that evening in Senator Barack Obama. Senator Obama has been a true inspiration to me. He encourages me to dream big and to dedicate myself to the betterment of others. We also all know there is a lot more to Senator Obama than his amazing oratory skills.

On November 7th, 2006, at age 20, I was elected as the youngest council member in the city of Fairmont, West Virginia’s history (Population 19,000). When I decided to run for the council, my critics said I was too young and that I did not have enough experience. I was discounted from the start. What they didn’t know was the citizens of Fairmont were tired of the political bickering and the standstills that prevented us from moving into the future. The great people of Fairmont were ready for change.

Today, the United States of America is ready for change. Some people will say Senator Obama is too young or that he doesn’t know the ins and outs of Washington, but what they are really saying is that they want to cling to the political standoffs that are preventing us from solving the pressing problems that we now face. In my case the criticism at least had some semblance, but Senator Obama’s unique life experiences put him in a place to restore America’s standing in the world and heal our nation from the political battles of past administrations.

As a local elected official, I respect Senator Obama’s hard work as a community organizer assisting people who lost their jobs from plant closings. As President, he will recognize the battles we face not only at the local level, but at the national and international level as well. While it is one thing to have the foresight to see that the Iraq War was wrong, it took a lot of courage to stand up and say so during the days leading up to war. Senator Obama’s opponent only came around to opposing the war when it became politically convenient.

One of the primary reasons I am endorsing Senator Barack Obama for president is what he calls the politics of hope. Like me, he believes in uniting our citizens to work together for the common good. I have witnessed, on a local level, the detriment derived from divisive politics. When I stepped into office, I inherited years and years of schismatic local politics brought on by personal conflicts. This type of politics gives us policy that is not created out of compromise for the common good, but policy that is made in spite of a political rival for the interests of a select few. He understands this because he has lived this from his time on the streets of Chicago to his times in the halls of the Senate.

At the most pivotal election of my lifetime, I pray my state and nation does not pass up on Senator Barack Obama. As President, Senator Obama will be a true blessing to the Mountain State and begin to heal the wounds of our nation and world.

Matthew S. Delligatti
Fairmont City Councilman
Harry S. Truman Scholar ‘07
West Virginia University Senior

For the first time, unaffiliated voters allowed to cast ballots as Democrats

Christopher Hass — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 18:57:41 EDT

From WHSV TV:

The too-close-to-call presidential campaign has meant high voter turnout in primaries nationwide, and West Virginia is preparing for similar results.

State Democrats in particular are expecting a large number of voters, and not only because the most-watched race in the country is between senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

The May 13 primary also will be the first time that unaffiliated voters are allowed to cast ballots as Democrats.

... Democratic State party Chairman Nick Casey said there has never been a better year to open the primary to independents. Unaffiliated voters are interested in the Clinton-Obama race, and Casey expects them to turn out in big numbers.

If they do, the state's roughly 151,000 independents could change the dynamics of the race. Independent voters in other open primaries so far have heavily favored Obama over Clinton.

West Virginia Wesleyan political scientist Robert Rupp said in a close election, it could be those independents who put the winning candidate over the top.

Video: Barack on Gas Prices in Beckley, WV

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 18:43:01 EDT

Barack held a town hall in Beckley, West Virginia this past Thursday. Watch his answer on how to deal with the soaring prices of gas...

Click here for Barack's plan for a clean energy future.

Video: More Voices

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 12:20:59 EDT

When Barack Obama graduated from Harvard Law School -- where he served as editor of the prestigious Harvard Law Review -- he could have worked at a top private law firm or clerked for a federal judge.

Instead, he chose to return to Chicago -- where he had spent three years as a community organizer -- and lead a voter registration drive, bringing 150,000 more voices into the political process.

This is the story of Project Vote, an extraordinary voter registration and mobilization project that altered the political landscape in Illinois and helped move our country in a better, different direction...

Now it's time for all of us to do our part. Let's make this movement bigger by bringing in new voters and adding more voices to our democracy.

On the Road in West Virginia

Christopher Hass — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 11:40:23 EDT

On his way to a Town Hall event in Beckley, West Virginia, Barack stopped in at Murads' sports bar to catch the kick-off of March Madness. From the Washington Post:

"I'm fishing for a few votes around here. At least I can show off my basketball knowledge," [Obama] confessed at Murad's on 35th Street, on a muddy street in Charleston.
Over limp chicken wings and the blare of basketball, Obama and the Murads' patrons talked bracketology, energy policy, health care and hot sauce.

'I will fight for you if you're willing to stand up for me.'

Christopher Hass — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:46:45 EDT

From the Register-Herald:

Almost as if he were visiting with more than 2,500 longtime friends, Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama kept his prepared remarks short and devoted most of his time at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center Thursday evening to candidly answering questions from the audience.

... Obama continued answering questions even after the forum closed as he walked through a crowd of people, shaking their hands and speaking with them. Before he left the microphone, he stated:

"I will always tell you what I think. I will always tell you where I stand. I will be honest with you about the challenges we face as a country. ... I will listen to you even when we disagree. ... I will wake up every single day when I'm president of the United States, thinking about how to make your lives a little bit better. ... I know what it's like to be raised by a single mother, to get food stamps, to have a grandfather to be able to fight in a war and create a good life for his wife and himself because of the G.I. Bill. ... I will fight for you if you're willing to stand up for me."

From the Charleston Gazette:

Jared Towner has already completed two tours of duty in Iraq with the National Guard and he's quick to say, "I'm proud of my service."

But the Parkersburg native and Morgantown resident said U.S. Sen. Barack Obama was "dead on" when he told an audience at the University of Charleston Thursday that the nation has wasted too much money and effort in its five-year war in Iraq.

"It's heartbreaking for me and my generation to see so much waste," Towner said following Obama's speech to an overflow crowd Thursday.

... Still uncommitted to either candidate, Democratic Gov. Joe Manchin and his wife, Gayle, attended the Obama speech as they did Clinton's earlier appearance. The governor said it is the most exciting Democratic presidential primary in West Virginia since then-Sens. John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey battled it out in 1960.

"We have that type of excitement going on in West Virginia right now," Manchin said, "and we're going to be a major player in this campaign."

West Virginia: Spring to Action

Christopher Hass — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 19:48:54 EDT

From the beginning, one of the goals of this campaign has been to bring people back into the political process, to empower them to help bring about change one community at a time. Today marks the first day of spring, and to celebrate, supporters across the country are organizing a national day of grassroots fundraising events to take place Saturday, March 29th.

Spring is here and there is no better time to celebrate change!

In the past few weeks we've heard divisiveness, conflict, and cynicism dominating the political conversation of our nation. But, we know that what binds us together is stronger than what drives us apart and the genius of America is that out of many, we are one.

On Saturday, March 29th, grassroots groups across the country will join together to celebrate this season of change and raise money to ensure Barack Obama's message of hope and unity reaches communities from Pennsylvania to Indiana and from Oregon to Kentucky.

Host a Spring to Action Fundraiser to raise money for the campaign and share more information about Barack Obama with those in your neighborhood. We'll provide you with tips and resources for your event in the Spring to Action Fundraiser Host Guide.

There are still ten more contests in the Democratic primary election and now is the time to make a fresh commitment to impact this election by taking action in your area.

Learn more about hosting a Spring to Action Fundraiser and create your event today.

Thanks for bringing our country together, one community at a time, to support change!

- Nikki Sutton
Obama for America Online Organizer

You can find ideas and suggestions on how to organize a grassroots fundraiser in your own community in the Spring to Action Fundraiser Host Guide. And if you haven’t created a My.BarackObama.com account yet, there’s no better time than now. It’s free, it only takes a minute, and it will allow you to connect with groups, events and supporters in your own community and across the country.

Grassroots events can also be a great chance to make sure that your friends, family and neighbors are all registered to vote. In West Virginia, the deadline to register as a Democrat is April 22nd. You can find West Virginia voter registration information here.

By organizing, by educating, by registering voters and raising money for the work ahead, we can not only impact the next ten contests, we can begin to lay the groundwork for the campaign for the presidency in November.

Video: The Cost of War

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 17:02:16 EDT

Here is video from Barack's speech today on the immense costs of the Iraq War...

Let's win this election, end this war, and rebuild our country. Please make a contribution today.

Photos from Iraq Speech in Charleston, WV

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:04:51 EDT

Here are some photos from the event in Charleston, West Virginia...

Click here to read Barack's speech on the costs of the war.

Memo: Senator Clinton's distortion on NAFTA, part of a disturbing pattern

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:33:36 EDT

The Obama campaign just released this memo...

Senator Clinton made her “opposition” to NAFTA a cornerstone of her Ohio campaign. There was only one problem: she wasn’t telling the truth to Ohio voters. Misrepresenting your position and carefully parsing your words when you don’t think you’ll get caught are the hallmarks of the kind of politics that Barack Obama is running to change. That’s the kind of politics that led us into war in Iraq and gave us a tax code that lets those with offshore investments pay a lower tax rate than the average working family in Pennsylvania.

It’s about trust.

Working Americans are looking for a President who will be consistent in standing up for American workers—and have the integrity to be consistent in his or her views. Senator Clinton has failed that test: though she now rails against NAFTA on the campaign trail, her records as first lady show that she actively lobbied for NAFTA’s passage.

Thousands of pages of Hillary Clinton’s White House schedules released yesterday show that she was one of the administration’s top proponents of NAFTA, attending at least four meetings to advocate for its passage.

That was then. Now that she’s running for President, Clinton has changed her tune. Less than a month ago, Clinton said at a debate that “I have been a critic of NAFTA from the very beginning. I didn't have a public position on it, because I was part of the administration, but when I started running for the Senate, I have been a critic.”

Really? Attendees at the 1993 NAFTA briefing where Clinton served as the closing act say that she was “totally pro-NAFTA and what a good thing it would be for the economy.”

American workers are already facing the uncertainly of a changing economy. The last thing they need is another President who changes views when there’s an election coming up.

Obama Delivers Speech on 5th Anniversary of Iraq War

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 12:07:50 EDT

FAYETTEVILLE, NC—On the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq, Senator Barack Obama offered a clear contrast between his foreign policy vision and that of John McCain, emphasizing the need to end the war in order to confront the emerging national security challenges of the 21st Century. Obama spoke at Fayetteville Technical Community College, a short distance from Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base. Fort Bragg is home to the 82d Airborne Division and the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, members of which have seen multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

In his remarks, Senator Obama drew stark distinctions between the leadership and judgment he offers and the kind of leadership that led us into Iraq—and fails to comprehend the consequences of our involvement there:

"Just yesterday, we heard Senator McCain confuse Sunni and Shiite, Iran and al Qaeda," Senator Obama said. "Maybe that is why he voted to go to war with a country that had no al Qaeda ties. Maybe that is why he completely fails to understand that the war in Iraq has done more to embolden America's enemies than any strategic choice that we have made in decades."

Obama was introduced and endorsed at the event by Paul "Bud" Bucha, a former Army captain awarded the Medal of Honor in 1970 for heroism in Vietnam.

Senator Obama outlined the threats that have festered while the U.S. has remained mired in Iraq, a war he opposed from the start. Obama will immediately begin to bring and end to the war and refocus our military and diplomatic efforts on 21st-Century security challenges. As President, Obama will:

End the war in Iraq, removing our troops at a pace of 1 to 2 combat brigades per month;

Finally finish the fight against the Taliban, root out al Qaeda and invest in the people of Afghanistan and Pakistan, while making aid to the Pakistani government conditional;

Act aggressively to stop nuclear proliferation and to secure all loose nuclear materials around the world;

Double our foreign assistance to cut extreme poverty in half;

Invest in a clean energy future to wean the U.S. off of foreign oil and to lead the world against the threat of global climate change;

Rebuild our military capability by increasing the number of soldiers, marines, and special forces troops, and insist on adequate training and time off between deployments;

Renew American diplomacy by talking to our adversaries as well as our friends; increasing the size of the Foreign Service and the Peace Corps; and creating an America's Voice Corps.

Click here for the full fact sheet.

Watch a video excerpt...

Continue reading for Senator Obama's remarks follow as prepared for delivery...

West Virginia in the National Spotlight

Christopher Hass — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 18:43:54 EDT

From WOWK-TV:

State democratic leaders believe West Virginia's May primary now becomes a major part of the election process.

"With over a third of our voters undecided, we're open to persuasion, and so I think you'll see a lot of activities from both campaigns in this state trying to pick up those votes," said Dr. Tera McCown, a social science professor at the University of Charleston.

McCown said the May primary has generated a lot of excitement with her students. It's also the talk at the State Capital.

"Clearly, I think it looks like West Virginia is going to be in play," said State Senator Evan Jenkins, (D)-Cabell County.

By West Virginia being a major player, that could mean visits from the candidates, national media attention, and even an economic shot in the arm.

"Everybody like to get attention, and when we have the candidates coming through here, there will be lots of events we hope, lots of activities," says Nick Casey, Chairman of the West Virginia Democratic Party.

Casey hopes the national attention also becomes public attention, causing excitement while encouraging people to get involved in the political process.

'Rockefeller explains why he's backing Obama'

Christopher Hass — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 17:53:09 EDT

From the Charleston Daily Mail:

After winding through miles of Ohio road with Sen. Barack Obama on his campaign bus, Sen. Jay Rockefeller hopes his pick for next president now knows a thing or two about West Virginia.

Rockefeller, D-W.Va., talked coal and Toyota, two important factors in the Mountain State, at length with Obama between stops in Nelsonville and Westerville - Ohio towns that Rockefeller admits he'd never heard of.

Last week, the 70-year-old Rockefeller announced his endorsement for Obama, the popular Illinois senator who is battling Sen. Hillary Clinton in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination.

The endorsement came as a surprise to some, considering Rockefeller's previous ties with the Clintons.

… But Rockefeller remains unwavering in his backing for Obama. He noted that Obama, too, has pledged to work toward creating universal health care.

"He's done everything Hillary has done in terms of health plans and economic plans," Rockefeller said.

He also believes he and Obama are cut from the same cloth, in regards to their upbringings in public service.

"I think he came at public life the same way I did," Rockefeller said. "He went to Chicago's south side and worked with people hurt by steel-mill closings, just like I did as a Vista worker in Emmons. That tells me where someone's soul is and what they care about."

Rockefeller also believes Obama has a greater chance of defeating Sen. John McCain, the Republican presidential frontrunner, than Clinton.

A Washington Post-ABC News poll showed that Obama leads McCain by 12 percentage points while Clinton leads McCain by six points.

"West Virginia needs so desperately to have a Democratic president," he said. "Barack Obama is the guy they don't want to run against."

… "I was around when JFK was elected," Rockefeller said. "I think he's as good and probably better. There's an aura of confidence about him you see on TV when Hillary's going after him. He's in control of his emotions and stays true to himself. He has those very elusive and unusual characteristics of a genuine once-in-a-lifetime leader."

Congressman Nick Rahall endorses Barack Obama

Christopher Hass — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 15:06:48 EDT

From WSAZ:

Congressional Quarterly reported Thursday that West Virginia Congressman Nick Rahall has endorsed Barack Obama for president.

Rahall told CQ that, "the new voters he has brought to the process this year and the new direction, in my opinion, add up to what our country needs.”

Rahall indicated he gave Obama his endorsement privately up to a week and a half ago. Rahall is also a superdelegate and joins United States Senator Jay Rockefeller as the [other] super in West Virginia to endorse Obama.

Memo from David Plouffe: Moving On to the Next 10 Contests

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:55:02 EDT

David Plouffe sent out this memo today...

With his overwhelming victory in the Mississippi primary, Barack Obama’s lead in pledged delegates is now wider than it was on March 3, before the contests in Ohio and Texas. He netted more delegates in Mississippi and Wyoming than Senator Clinton netted on March 4. Obama now holds a pledged delegate lead of 161 with a total of 1411 pledged delegates, while Senator Clinton trails with 1250 pledged delegates. As the number of remaining pledged delegates dwindles, Hillary Clinton’s path to the nomination seems less and less plausible.
Barack Obama has now won nearly thirty contests, over half the states in the country, including critical battleground states like Virginia, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, Colorado, Missouri, Washington and Colorado.
Now that Mississippi is behind us, we move on to the next ten contests. The Clinton Campaign would like to focus your attention only on Pennsylvania – a state in which they have already declared that they are “unbeatable.” But Pennsylvania is only one of 10 remaining contests, each important in terms of allocating delegates and ultimately deciding who are nominee will be. Senator Obama campaigned in Pennsylvania yesterday and will do so again later this week, but he will also campaign aggressively in the other upcoming states – he will travel to other upcoming states in the very near future.
We have activated our volunteer networks, are putting staff on the ground, and building our organization in every one of the upcoming states. The key is not who wins the states that the Clinton campaign thinks are important. Throughout this entire process, they have cherry-picked states, diminished caucuses, and moved the goal posts to create a shifting, twisted rationale for why they should win the nomination despite winning fewer primaries, fewer states, fewer delegates, and fewer votes.

You can help us win the next three contests in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Indiana. Pick up the phone today and make some calls!

Rolling Stone: 'Barack Obama's Machinery of Hope'

Christopher Hass — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 18:28:50 EST

The new issue of Rolling Stone magazine features an in-depth cover story on the incredible grassroots support that has built up around this campaign, and how supporters are combining online tools and offline organzing to transform the political process:

Over the past year, the Obama campaign has quietly worked to integrate the online technologies that fueled the rise of Howard Dean —as well as social-networking and video tools that didn't even exist in 2004 — with the kind of neighbor-to-neighbor movement-building that Obama learned as a young organizer on the streets of Chicago. "That's the magic of what they've done," says Simon Rosenberg, president of the Democratic think tank NDN. "They've married the incredibly powerful online community they built with real on-the-ground field operations. We've never seen anything like this before in American political history."
...According to David Axelrod, the campaign's chief strategist, the bottom-up ethos of the campaign comes straight from the top. "When we started this race, Barack told us that he wanted the campaign to be a vehicle for involving people and giving them a stake in the kind of organizing he believed in," Axelrod says. "He is still the same guy who came to Chicago as a community organizer twenty-three years ago. The idea that we can organize together and improve our country — I mean, he really believes that."

...Temo Figueroa's goal is not to put supporters to work but to enable them to put themselves to work, without having to depend on the campaign for constant guidance. "We decided that we didn't want to train volunteers," he says. "We want to train organizers — folks who can fend for themselves."
..."That was a very important test for us," says Hildebrand. "Can we make this work offline? We said to our online supporters, 'We love you, but we need you to actually go to work in your neighborhood.' Their online support was only great if we could translate it into activity within their community."

At the same time, the campaign was developing a new high-tech toolbox to enable its supporters to keep the momentum going — both online and off. With the help of one of the founders of Facebook, the Obama campaign created, MyBo, its own social-networking tool, through which supporters could organize themselves however they saw fit. Today, the network claims more than half a million members and more than 8,000 affinity groups. Some are organized by state (Ohioans for Obama), others by profession (Texas Business Women for Obama) and still others by groove thing (Soul Music Lovers for Obama).

...Using the social-networking tools of MyBo, the volunteers began to create city- and statewide networks with names like IdahObama, groups that could be tapped later by the professional staff to organize down to the precinct level. In Maryland, the campaign was able to mobilize 3,000 volunteers in only three weeks, thanks to the months of groundwork by groups like Baltimore for Barack Obama.

...No group represents the campaign machine that Obama has built better than AlamObama. A year ago, the group was nothing more than eight people who attended an informal get-together at a Borders bookstore. Today, it's a 600-member grass-roots outfit — an all-volunteer field operation that hums with the energy and efficiency of a fully staffed campaign office. "In Iowa, the campaign was on the ground for six months," says Judy Hall, a college professor who co-founded the group. "They come here, and it's like they've already been on the ground for six months. Those of us in the grass roots, we simply minded the store.
"Well," she says, reconsidering her words, "I guess we actually built the store — but that's what this campaign is all about."

If you haven't already created a My.BarackObama.com account, sign up today. You can find other supporters in your area, plan events in your community and become a full-fledged member of the Obama grassroots movement...

Reclaiming the American Dream by Barack Obama

Christopher Hass — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 12:01:44 EST

Barack wrote an Op-Ed for today's Providence Journal, titled "Reclaiming the American Dream":

By Barack Obama:
MOST AMERICANS have simple dreams. A job that can support a family. Health care we can count on and afford. A retirement that is dignified and secure. Education and opportunity for our kids.

But today, the price of the American dream is going up.

All across the country, Americans are working harder for less. We’ve never paid more for health care or for college. It’s harder to save, and it’s harder to retire. There are things we need to do right now to give our economy a boost, but a short-term stimulus is not enough. We have to put the American dream on a firmer foundation.

That’s going to take a change in the way Washington works. It’s time to stop giving tax breaks to companies that ship jobs overseas, and to put a tax cut in the pocket of middle class Americans. That’s why I’ve proposed a “Making Work Pay” tax credit of up to $500 for American workers, and $1,000 for working families, as well as an additional tax credit for struggling homeowners. This will cut taxes for 150 million Americans, give our economy a boost, and put fairness back into our tax code.

We also need to protect a secure retirement by easing the burden on America’s seniors. That’s why I’ll eliminate income taxes for any senior making less than $50,000. And I’ll change our bankruptcy laws to protect workers’ pensions instead of protecting banks. Because I believe that if you work hard and pay into the system, you’ve earned the right to a secure retirement.

It’s also time to stop talking about the outrage of 47 million Americans without health care, and to start doing something about it. I expanded health care in Illinois by bringing Democrats and Republicans together. We took on the insurance industry, and provided health care to hundreds of thousands of families. And as president, I’ll cut a typical family’s premiums by up to $2,500, and make health care affordable and accessible for all Americans.

We also have to be clear that the American dream must never come at the expense of the American family. But even as politicians in Washington talk about family values, we haven’t had policies that value families. As the son of a single mother, I don’t accept an America that forces women to choose between their kids and their careers. That’s why I’ll expand the Family and Medical Leave Act to cover millions of additional Americans. We need to make sure you can take leave to care for elderly parents, and to join school activities with your kids.

We also need to expand paid leave. Today, 78 percent of workers covered by the Family and Medical Leave Act don’t take leave because it isn’t paid. And this has a far greater impact on families with less income and less savings. To make sure our system is fair, I will press states to adopt paid-leave systems, and set aside $1.5 billion to fund the start-up costs and help states offset the costs to employers. And I’ll require employers to provide all of their workers with seven paid sick days a year, because you shouldn’t be punished for being sick.

Finally, we have a responsibility to make sure that our young people can reach a little further and rise a little higher than we did. But too many Americans are weighted down by student loans. I know because Michelle and I just finished paying off our loans a few years ago. It’s time to put a college education within reach of every American. That’s why I’ll create a new and fully refundable annual tax credit worth $4,000 for tuition and fees. To receive this credit, we’ll require 100 hours of public service. Because it’s time to call upon our young people to serve our country; in return, we’ll invest in their future.

We’ve recently been reminded that when some folks hurt in our economy, all of us hurt. When things are going bad on Main Street, that catches up with Wall Street. And that’s how it should be. Because what binds us together, what makes us one American family, is that we have to stand up and fight for each other’s dreams. It’s time to reaffirm that fundamental belief — I am my brother’s keeper, I am my sister’s keeper — through our politics, our policies and in our daily lives. It’s time to reclaim the American dream.

'Grass-roots giving is reshaping campaign fundraising'

Christopher Hass — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 18:54:34 EST

From the Los Angeles Times:

From his South Texas home, Chuck Barracato watches the news to see how Barack Obama is doing. When Barracato is moved by Obama's message or senses that the Illinois senator could use some help, he digs into his savings and chips in $25 for the candidate's presidential campaign.

Barracato's payments, sent by computer click, add up to $700, maybe a little more. It's not a big sum by the standards of political donations, but it's enough to make Barracato part of a movement that some experts believe is reshaping presidential fundraising.

"I am grass-roots," said Barracato, 68, a retired teacher who has gotten involved in the 2008 presidential campaign because of his opposition to the war in Iraq. "I am the itty-bitty guy behind the movement."

As he battles Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton for the Democratic nomination, Obama -- a onetime Chicago community organizer -- is increasingly relying on donors like Barracato to fuel his campaign.

Lately, the Obama fundraising approach has paid especially big dividends. It is easily outpacing Clinton's money-gathering operation, which began the race with a massive financial advantage and has relied more heavily on traditional big donors.

… The role of small donors is heartening advocates of campaign finance reform. Small donors, by definition, are not insiders seeking special access or favors in exchange for their largesse.

… "There is no question that Obama's fundraising is a huge breakthrough," Eli Pariser said … "Clearly, he has hit this nail on the head in a way that no one has before. He has given people a real sense of ownership that makes them want to chip in."
Read the full article . . .

If you haven't already, now is your chance to become one of over one million people who own a piece of this incredible movement: