Iowa HQ

Community Organizer Spotlight- Bonnie in Muscatine

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 14:32:41 EST

As a teacher in Muscatine, IA- Bonnie Adkins understands first hand out legislation can affect the lives of Iowans. This is why Bonnie first began to volunteer for President Obama in 2007 in Muscatine, and has been one of the leading volunteer organizers in Eastern Iowa since.

Bonnie, along with great volunteers like Lynda Smith and Mike Fuller, has been hosting events for two years in Muscatine, and since becoming a Community Organizer with Organizing for America, Bonnie has hosted many health insurance reform events across the county.

Muscatine already has a great organizing team, and Bonnie is looking forward to crossing the finish line on health insurance reform. Education and health insurance reform are the two of the top issues that Bonnie cites as her reason to be involved, and citizens of Muscatine have a great resource on both of those issues in Bonnie.

Michele in Fort Dodge

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:30:13 EST

Michele Summers is a Fort Dodge, IA native who has taken the reigns as OFA’s Community Organizer in Webster County. Michele has been a Community Organizer since November, and has already hosted multiple events during our “Finish Line” program.

During November Community Organizers across Iowa held 20 organizational meetings aimed at building teams that will organize health insurance reform events this next month. Michele has already started meeting with and speaking with potential volunteers in Fort Dodge that would like to help organize.

Michele left Iowa for college and recently made her return to Fort Dodge. Whether it is providing health insurance reform for those in need, or taking the next steps towards cleaner energy sources, Michele is well on her way to making her voice heard in her community.

If you are interested in joining an OFA volunteer team, you can e-mail IowaOFA@dnc.org.

Council Bluffs Community Organizer Spotlight

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:19:02 EST

As an active volunteer in the Pottwattamie County Democratic Party and during the campaign here in Iowa, Susan Slauson has become one of President Obama’s most prominent supporters in Western Iowa. When Organizing for America was first starting, Susan naturally began leading health insurance reform events in June, and has become our Community Organizer for Council Bluffs.

Susan has led some of our most successful events in Iowa, including phone banks, health care discussions, and a health care organizing workshop. The picture below is from our “Send Off” event for Congressman King, where Susan helped organize a dozen residents to present thousands of signatures of support for health reform to Congressman Steve King.

Susan hopes to continue building relationships with potential volunteers in the area, and continue to creatively build support for President Obama’s reforms as they come up over the next year.

Camp OFA: Volunteer Training Recap

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 14:21:19 EST

This past weekend Organizing for America hosted “Camp OFA” across Iowa. These volunteer trainings took place in Sioux City, Davenport, Des Moines, Iowa City, and Waterloo. Camp OFA attendees were able to learn more about OFA, learn how to organize issue organizing events, and participated in activities on topics like volunteer recruitment and event planning.

Congressman Dave Loebsack (IA-2) was able to stop by our Iowa City training to give an update on health insurance reform and other issues. Congressman Loebsack thanked our volunteers for being so active on such an important issue. View pictures from our Davenport and Iowa City trainings where our community organizers Chris Shira, Gary Goldstein, Bonnie Adkins, and Kim Smith were able to lead portions of the trainings and help turn out a great crowd!

Our great volunteer leaders are hosting health insurance reform events across the state this week, you can sign up to attend right now.

Our Fairfield Community Organizer - Event This Week

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:36:01 EST

Pam Gentry is our Community Organizer for the area around Fairfield, IA. Pam was one of the earliest volunteers to become a Community Organizer for OFA in Iowa after hosting multiple events in early June on health insurance reform.

Pam has not always been involved in politics, but in the last few years she has become very active. Pam was a precinct captain during the caucus campaign, and has used that experience to organize OFA activities like driving attendance for town halls as Members of Congress come through town to discuss health care reform, and hosting multiple phone banks to build support for reform.

Pam will be hosting an organizational meeting this Monday in Fairfield to help build her team and plan upcoming events.

Community Organizer Spotlight: Sophia in Des Moines

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:15:24 EST

Today we are featuring Sophia Douglas, one of our Community Organizers in Des Moines. Sophia was a precinct captain and team leader during the campaign, and has continued her leadership throughout OFA’s health reform efforts this year.

Sophia has never been active on issue organizing before, but she started this summer by helping OFA collect declarations of support in Des Moines, and by helping get over 350 supporters of reform to attend Congressman Boswell’s Des Moines town hall in August for a great event.

With OFA’s efforts on health insurance reform, Sophia believes that OFA has once again shown “that one person can truly make a difference and a positive impact, both locally and globally”. Sophia just recently hosted an organizational meeting in Des Moines to start building her team, and has let us know that OFA is “the first time that I have felt as if my voice could be heard in a meaningful way”.

Community Organizer Training in Des Moines

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 11:37:19 EST

This past weekend, OFA Iowa hosted a training for our Community Organizers from across Iowa in Des Moines. Our Community Organizers are volunteer leaders that have been helping with health reform events, and other OFA events since April. Whether it was phone banks, attending public events, or hosting their own trai. You can always sign up online to attend OFA activities near you.

During our all day training, we had sections on volunteer recruitment, the basics of organizing, and work groups on how OFA will organize here in Iowa the rest of the year. These leaders were able to discuss experiences organizing their communities and hosting activities, and sit down with staff to plan what OFA should do next.

We are very lucky to have such a great group of committed leaders.Whether it is Laura, who came in all the way to Riceville, or Susan who made the drive from Council Bluffs, it is clear that health reform organizing in Iowa couldn't be in better hands.

Last Night: Cedar Rapids Reunion

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:07:38 EST

Yesterday evening at CSPS in Cedar Rapids, OFA volunteers and former campaign volunteers gathered to discuss their experiences on the campaign, and how to get involved with Organizing for America. Cedar Rapids is a special place for me, in 2007 I was lucky enough to help with President Obama's first campaign stop at Iowa, and I had the chance to work for the campaign in Linn County until election day last year. The event was right after the announcement speech in Springfield, and Kennedy High School had a packed gym to welcome the President. We had a standing room only crowd on a very cold day.

Many of our volunteers, including our Marion Community Organizer Gretchen Lawyer, got to see the President for the first time that day and are still involved with OFA. Other former staff for OFA Iowa that worked in our Cedar Rapids office include our Iowa Field Director Shira Miller, and our current OFA Regional Field Director Matt Beltrami.

Last night two of the President's earliest supporters spoke to the crowd, County Supervisor Lu Barron, and State Representative Tyler Olson. Both Lu and Tyler know the importance of the volunteers that helped get the President to where we are today. Volunteers working with OFA are going to be the deciding factor in making sure those issues that we were knocking doors for in the winter of 2007, become a reality in Washington today.

"Pre Premiere" Phone Bank at Smokey Row Restaurant

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:55:11 EDT

We are continuing our live blog from Des Moines, where we have a "Pre-Premiere" phone bank at Smokey Row Restaurant. We have a great crowd on hand to make calls and everyone is excited to hear what the president has to say when he gives his speech at 8:00 p.m. EDT. You can watch it live by clicking on this link: http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/oct20watch

The red carpet is out for our best volunteers coming in from all over the state to help with calls. Our Regional Field Director Trent Schacht has the lists ready, and a lot of calls are being made. When supporters hear that today is such an important day for calling their Members of Congress, our volunteers can't give out the phone numbers to call fast enough! With word that we have made history with how many calls we have made so far, volunteers are fired up to make sure that our representatives know that Iowans support real reform.

You can show your support by calling now: http://my.barackobama.com/timetodeliver

On the Ground in Iowa: It's Time to Deliver Health Reform

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:25:28 EDT

Big day for OFA today -- in Iowa we have events going on across the state, and our staff couldn't be more excited. Our first event is a Senior Phone Bank in Cedar Rapids at the home of Lynn and Bob Ocken, which we will have updates and pictures from later today. I will also be live blogging from our Des Moines phone bank at Smokey Row restaurant this afternoon. Thank you to our Community Organizers and volunteer leaders that have helped us plan and set up events for this historic day.

We have phone banks in every district -- ranging from campus events at UNI and Iowa to phone banks in Decorah, Council Bluffs, and Emmetsburg. We also have a dedicated group of nurses in Iowa City that will be reaching out to other nurses here in Iowa from a phone bank at Bobbie Paxton's home.

After months of calling, door knocking, hosting community events, and having conversations with neighbors, our OFA Iowa volunteers are ready to deliver.

What a better way to start the day, then by calling your member of Congress!

Click here to find their number and call now.

Community Organizer Profile: Gary in Cedar Rapids

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:15:48 EDT

In the first in our series of community organizer profiles, we are going to profile Gary Goldstein from Cedar Rapids, one of our newest Community Organizers.

Organizing for America in Iowa is lucky to have some of the best volunteer leaders in the country. Community Organizers are popping up all over the state who are ready to take the lead organizing their local communities.

Gary Goldstein has been actively volunteering with Democratic organizations for the last four years. Gary has always had an interest in politics, as a high school history teacher one of the things Gary would teach his students is about the political process. Gary has been volunteering for President Obama since 2007 after attending an event in Cedar Rapids. Shortly after that event Gary signed up to volunteer and was a precinct captain and team leader for the campaign during Caucus and General Election.

Gary believes that volunteering with OFA is a way to help make a difference, and can help create accountable government, just like he taught his students. “In order to achieve a better government we need to work for it” Gary says. By volunteering with OFA, Gary has found the opportunity to add his voice to the debate.

Gary recently became a Community Organizer on the east side of Cedar Rapids and looks forward to helping continue to build support for health insurance reform.

Thank You: Week of Action

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:23:46 EDT

Last week OFA Iowa hosted a “Week of Action”. We had over 40 events across the state, all designed to let our Members of Congress know the support behind President Obama’s plan for real health insurance reform. We want to thank our Neighborhood Team Leaders and Community Organizers that held potlucks, phone banks, canvasses, coffees, discussions, phone booths, and other events.

With every event we host, we aim to learn about reform, plan next steps, and most importantly get supporters to commit to contacting their members of congress through a phone call, letter, or visiting their local office.

Our next series of events will be on October 20th. Sign up for your local event.

Week of Action Update

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:58:02 EDT

OFA Iowa has had a great start to our Week of Action. Across the state we have seen volunteers host events at their homes, local libraries, on campus, or at local businesses all in an effort to contact members of Congress and let them know that the time for reform is now.

Thank you to those that have participated so far. There is still time to sign up for our remaining events this week!

This Week: Health Reform Week of Action

Derek Eadon, Iowa OFA State Director — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 17:17:32 EDT

This week OFA Iowa will be organizing a “Week of Action” all across Iowa to show support for health insurance reform. Each community in the state will have letter writing parties, reunion events, phone banks, and other events that will show Congress the support that President Obama has here in Iowa. Sign up for your local events

Last week in Iowa we had organizing workshops in Sioux City, Marion, Dubuque, Bettendorf, and Des Moines and our volunteers are organized and motivated to help finally pass real reform and to plan our “Week of Action”. The picture below is from our Des Moines Workshop last weekend:

Des Moines: We choose to go to the moon

Sean Knox — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 16:43:39 EDT

After the great day in Denver, we hopped back on the bus and drove all night through Colorado and Nebraska. When we pulled into Des Moines Saturday evening, hundreds of health care reform activists were gathered at the steps of the state capital.

One of the earliest supporters in the Obama campaign was Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller. He reminded us that when Obama was campaigning in Iowa, then-Senator Obama knew it wouldn’t be easy — and nor would governing be easy, if elected. Miller said:

This health care issue is not easy. But Barack didn’t get elected to do the easy things. He got elected because he could do the hard things that are important to us.

Des Moines was a perfect example of this ethic: regular people coming together and organizing not because it’s easy, or because the odds were in their favor. The people in Des Moines—just like those in Phoenix, Albuquerque, Denver, Austin, New York, and cities all over the country this week—are here because they refuse to let the health care reform debate be dictated by talking heads on cable TV or political pundits in D.C. Iowans and others are organizing for change not because it is easy, but because the status quo is unacceptable.

As OFA Deputy Director Jeremy Bird wrote yesterday, over 1.5 million activists from OFA and other health insurance reform coalition groups have taken direct action over the past 11 weeks. And after seeing supporters of health care reform across the country firsthand, it’s even clearer that we have a historic opportunity to ensure that all Americans have quality and affordable health care.

We’re almost to St. Louis for another rally. We can’t wait to get there. If you want to change health care in America, come down and join us.

Iowa Health Care Organizing Kick-Offs

Christopher Hass — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 18:41:16 EDT

About 30 Iowans met at T-Bock's Sports Bar and Grill in Decorah to talk about health care. People at the meeting talked about the need to change the current health care system and President Obama’s principles of reform. They also spent time planning health care service projects, such as a food drive. The meeting was part of the health care organizing kickoff, and was one of thousands of neighborhood meetings in Iowa and around the country. The Decorah Journal reported:

Twenty-seven Decorah area residents met recently to discuss healthcare reform legislation as it is developing in Congress.

In attendance were healthcare providers, representatives of the health insurance industry, and consumers of healthcare in a variety of its forms.

The Organizing for America network encouraged such events nationwide and provided information and suggestions for consideration.

Meeting in the back room of T-Bock's Sports Bar and Grill, local participants first looked at President Obama's principles for the plan that will emerge from Congress, including reduced costs, guaranteed choice and ensuring that all Americans have quality, affordable health care.

Each attendee spoke of his or her own experiences with the current healthcare system and expressed views concerning the changes needed.

Organizing for America asked each of its participating groups to become involved in healthcare service projects in their local communities in addition to lobbying their Congressional representatives for passage of reform legislation. Projects that Decorah attendees plan to aid include the local food pantries, the free clinic, and upcoming Habitat for Humanity builds.

Pictured below are residents of Ames, Iowa, discussing the need for healthcare reform. The meeting was hosted by local organizer Jan Bauer.

President Obama in Iowa: "A Choice Between Prosperity and Decline"

Christopher Hass — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 10:06:37 EDT

President Obama returned to Iowa yesterday, where he toured a wind production facility which now occupies part of a factory that had been shuttered in 2007. The factory, the President Obama noted, is "alive again with new industry," as a symbol of a new energy economy.

From WhiteHouse.gov:

The President placed what was happening in Iowa in the context of two centuries of energy innovation in America, but noted America’s leadership in innovation had always been coupled with an alarming rise consumption. The President ran down the all-too-familiar list of problems our energy consumption and oil dependence brings, from those people face every day like prices at the gas pump, to those that have a broader but equally serious impact like the trade deficit, constraints on foreign policy, and the prospect of irrevocable climate change left as a burden for out children.

As the President has stated again and again, these problems also represent a fundamental weakness in our economy which will prevent long term stability as long as we refuse to address them. And while those interests who have profited off of this weakness have aligned to defend the status quo and paint change as a danger, the President forcefully framed what this choice is all about:

"We can't afford that approach anymore -- not when the cost for our economy, for our country, and for our planet is so high. So on this Earth Day, it is time for us to lay a new foundation for economic growth by beginning a new era of energy exploration in America. That's why I'm here.

Now, the choice we face is not between saving our environment and saving our economy. The choice we face is between prosperity and decline. We can remain the world's leading importer of oil, or we can become the world's leading exporter of clean energy. We can allow climate change to wreak unnatural havoc across the landscape, or we can create jobs working to prevent its worst effects. We can hand over the jobs of the 21st century to our competitors, or we can confront what countries in Europe and Asia have already recognized as both a challenge and an opportunity: The nation that leads the world in creating new energy sources will be the nation that leads the 21st-century global economy.

America can be that nation. America must be that nation."

Read the President's full remarks . . .

Back on the Ground: OFA Listening Tours Kick Off in Iowa

Christopher Hass — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 19:13:21 EDT

"What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you." -- Barack Obama, Election Night 2008

On Tuesday night in Carroll, Iowa, 15 people gathered at Sam's Sodas and Sandwiches to talk to OFA staffer Derek Eadon about their community, the issues that affect everyday life in Carroll, and what they can do to help realize the change they worked so hard for as part of Barack Obama's presidential campaign. In many ways this small gathering echoed the same kinds of the meetings that took place in diners and homes in the early days of the Iowa Caucus campaign, over two years ago.

This time however, the focus was not on Barack Obama or the caucus, or any election at all. This time the focus was on how to build support both in Iowa and in Washington D.C for the President's agenda; how to make that change. They talked about health care, shared memories of meeting Senator Obama during the campaign, and discussed ways to build on the grassroots organization that grew out of that movement.

The Carroll meeting was the kick-off of the Iowa Listening Tour, one of many Listening Tours taking place across the country this summer. At these meetings, supporters are able to meet new state staff members, hear about some of the lessons learned during the election, and offer their thoughts on how best to organize in their communities. "We have just one goal for these events - to listen," Derek Eadon explained. "[Our supporters], more than anyone else, know what approaches will work best in Iowa and we're eager to hear their ideas."

The Quad City Times reported:

The successor to President Barack Obama’s groundbreaking grassroots campaign has opened up shop in Iowa, and over the next two weeks it will host more than a dozen forums, including one next week in Davenport.

...“These listening tours will be one of our first major undertakings as we ramp up across the country,” said Natalie Wyeth, a spokesperson.

Already, the group has a paid staffer in the state.

This kind of an effort isn’t the norm in Iowa, particularly so far from an election, according to a party veteran.

“It’s very unusual that it would happen this early,” said Dave Nagle, former chairman of the Iowa Democratic Party.

...The paid staffer in Iowa is Derek Eadon, who began work about a month ago. Eadon was a regional field director in eastern Iowa during the presidential election, and he’s now working out of the Iowa Democratic Party office in Des Moines.

...The group intends to continue relying heavily on volunteers.

Seventeen meetings have been scheduled across the state through the end of the month by Organizing for America.

In the Quad-Cities, the director of the QCA for Change group is a point of contact, Eadon said. That group has already undertaken some volunteer efforts. The group has about 50 members.

“We’re going to be a vital part of the organization,” said Roland Lamantia, director of QCA for Change.

In addition to Iowa, Listening Tours have already begun in Georgia, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Missouri, Michigan, Indiana, Colorado, and Texas. These events will be taking place throughout the summer, and we'll have updates in the coming weeks as more staff are deployed across the country. If you've attended an event this week or are planning on being at one, let us know in the comments below.

Back in Iowa

Christopher Hass — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 13:33:32 EDT

From Derek Eadon, the new Iowa 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 Iowa and, starting this week, 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 Iowa going forward. Your ideas will be used to write an Iowa-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 Iowan 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,

Derek

Derek Eadon
Iowa 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 Iowa. Let us know how you'd like to see Iowa organized.

The President's Weekly Address: "Gearing up for a fight"

Christopher Hass — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 14:20:50 EST

On Thursday President Obama delivered his budget outline to Congress, a document that represents the ideas he campaigned on and millions of supporters fought for. "Because it represents real and dramatic change," the President explained, "it also represents a threat to the status quo in Washington." He acknowledged the fight ahead to bring this budget plan from outline to final legislation, but he also sent a clear message:

Two years ago, we set out on a journey to change the way that Washington works.

We sought a government that served not the interests of powerful lobbyists or the wealthiest few, but the middle-class Americans I met every day in every community along the campaign trail – responsible men and women who are working harder than ever, worrying about their jobs, and struggling to raise their families. In so many town halls and backyards, they spoke of their hopes for a government that finally confronts the challenges that their families face every day; a government that treats their tax dollars as responsibly as they treat their own hard-earned paychecks.

That is the change I promised as a candidate for president. It is the change the American people voted for in November. And it is the change represented by the budget I sent to Congress this week.
... I realize that passing this budget won’t be easy. Because it represents real and dramatic change, it also represents a threat to the status quo in Washington. I know that the insurance industry won’t like the idea that they’ll have to bid competitively to continue offering Medicare coverage, but that’s how we’ll help preserve and protect Medicare and lower health care costs for American families. I know that banks and big student lenders won’t like the idea that we’re ending their huge taxpayer subsidies, but that’s how we’ll save taxpayers nearly $50 billion and make college more affordable. I know that oil and gas companies won’t like us ending nearly $30 billion in tax breaks, but that’s how we’ll help fund a renewable energy economy that will create new jobs and new industries.
In other words, I know these steps won’t sit well with the special interests and lobbyists who are invested in the old way of doing business, and I know they’re gearing up for a fight as we speak. My message to them is this:

So am I.

The system we have now might work for the powerful and well-connected interests that have run Washington for far too long, but I don’t. I work for the American people. I didn’t come here to do the same thing we’ve been doing or to take small steps forward, I came to provide the sweeping change that this country demanded when it went to the polls in November. That is the change this budget starts to make, and that is the change I’ll be fighting for in the weeks ahead – change that will grow our economy, expand our middle-class, and keep the American Dream alive for all those men and women who have believed in this journey from the day it began.

Read the full text of the President's address . . .

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

Christopher Hass — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 19:02:21 EST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Thank You, Iowa

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:01:26 EST

Video: Election Night Speech in Grant Park

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

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

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

One hour left to vote in Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:39:41 EST

Iowa is where this campaign started, and we need to make sure we finish it here.

Check out this quick video of Barack’s trip here last week and then MAKE CALLS RIGHT NOW.

If you haven’t voted yet, you have until 9 PM to cast your ballot. Click here to find your polling location. If you are in line by 9 PM, you have the right to vote.

Less than four hours left to vote in Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:43:12 EST

There are still a few hours to make a big difference in this election.

Before the polls close in Iowa -- a crucial battleground state -- here's what you can do:

1. If you haven't already -- VOTE RIGHT NOW—you have until 9:00 PM: Find out where to vote

2. Call or email everyone you know and make sure they've voted.

3. Help turn out voters at a volunteer event near you: Find the closest event

4. Go back to your polling location and encourage everyone to stay in line until they vote. Anyone who is in line before the polls close can cast their ballot, no matter how long the line.

5. If you can't leave your house, get out the vote by calling voters: Choose the state you'd like to call

The election in your state is going to be close -- and you can help bring the change we need.

Make history right now by voting and helping others vote.

You are the answer

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:01:24 EST

This is your last chance to take part in this historic election. Polls are open right now in Iowa until 9:00 p.m.

Find your polling place and vote now.

After you've voted, talk to your fellow Iowans.

Pick up the phone, go door-to-door, and help your neighbors get to the polls.

Find your nearest staging location and get involved.

One person can make the difference in this election and that person could be you.

TODAY is Election Day!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 05:00:00 EST

Last night in Des Moines, Obama supporters held a Get Out the Vote Rally with special guests Governor Chet Culver, Senator Tom Harkin, Congressman Leonard Boswell, Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge and other elected officials.

Well over 100 people joined in the rally to get fired up before we start getting out the vote today and everyone was ready for the prospect of turning Iowa blue. If you’d like to join your local neighborhood team to help get Iowans to the polls, click here.

Here are a few details to help ensure that you have a smooth Election Day—and make sure to pass these on anyone you meet during your Get Out the Vote efforts .

Click here to verify your polling location (the details below are also available on this page).

You can register and vote at the same time here in Iowa!

Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. To 9:00 p.m. ALL voters in line at 9:00 p.m. have the right to vote as long as they remain in line.

If you are registered to vote at your current address—just show up to vote!

If you are aren’t registered to vote, or are registered to vote at a different address, there are just a few simple things you need to bring : a picture ID that hasn’t expired, and proof of residency (like a water bill, phone bill, bank statement, paycheck, or residential lease). Click here for more details.

If you have ANY problems at the polls, call 1-877-420-8868.

Remember – if you have already voted early, we need your help Getting Out the Vote. Find your neighborhood get out the vote operation right now.

One Day Left to Make a Difference

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:45:17 EST

Help Bring the Change We Need

There is only one day left before we vote for a new President.

There is only one day left to make a difference in this election.

Today is the final day to vote early.

Today in Iowa, hundreds of volunteers will be knocking on doors, and making phone calls.

On November 5th, will you be wishing you had done more?

Find your neighborhood canvass, and help Get out the Vote.

Click here to find where to vote early today, and help get out the vote tomorrow!

We Love Community Organizers

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 10:35:40 EST

Here in Iowa, hundreds of our supporters will be meeting at locations across the state to go out knocking on doors and talking with their neighbors about Barack and voting for the change we need.

We need to reach out to tens of thousands of voters over the next two days to make sure they know their polling location, and we are going to need your help.

Click here to join your neighborhood team, and help us Get Out the Vote.

An easy decision

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 15:20:33 EDT

The Iowa state director, Jackie Norris, just sent out this email asking for your help to Get Out the Vote. Please consider getting involved in this final push in Iowa-- we won't be able to turn Iowa blue without your help.

Zach --

With only 3 days left until Election Day, we have a choice.

We can get to work right now making sure that Iowa's pivotal electoral votes go to Barack Obama.

Or we can sit back, relax, and risk facing four more years of the same failed Bush-McCain economic policies.

I don't think it's a hard decision.

Now is the time to help get out the vote in Iowa. The next 72 hours are our chance to make change a reality.

Take a moment right now to sign up and help get out the vote. Iowa voters need to know where and when to vote.

This campaign began 21 months ago here in Iowa, and if it wasn't for Iowa, the campaign wouldn't be here today.

We'd like to extend our thanks for the effort supporters like you have devoted to Barack.

We've asked a lot of you during this historic race, and your efforts have made success possible -- but we're not there yet.

In these final, crucial days, letting up is simply not an option.

This is our chance for a brighter future. Can you give a few hours or an afternoon to Barack to help get out the vote?

http://iowa.barackobama.com/november

Thanks for everything you're doing,

Jackie

Jackie Norris
Iowa State Director
Obama for America

Lavery Getting Out the Vote

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 11:49:59 EDT

One of our best and most inspirational supporters here in Iowa is Lavery. He’s 82 and comes in everyday to make phone calls for at least 3-4 hours. And the only reason he leaves the office is because his oxygen tank runs low. He’s signed up to volunteer for everyday of GOTV and well as all day on Election Day--- and he will bring extra oxygen tanks so he can stay all day.

How are you helping to get out the vote?

We asked him what was inspiring him to get involved in this election:

“Barack is young, intelligent, with new ideas. I saw him in Le Claire Park and something told me this is the man I should vote for.
I cannot keep supporting him financially so I needed another way to do it. I am 82 and retired. I have done everything I have wanted to do in life. This campaign has given me new purpose in life. Also, I can tell people I worked for the President.”

There are hundreds of inspiring stories and leaders across the state working for the change we need. Over the next four days, we are going to be knocking on doors, making phone calls, and helping Iowans find out where they can vote on Tuesday. Sign up now to help Get Out the Vote.

Slideshow: Early Vote for Change Rally

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:10:25 EDT

Here are a few more pictures from the rally today in Des Moines.

We've got a big weekend ahead of us, and Barack made it clear that we all need to pitch in to help Get Out the Vote. Click here to find a location near you, and join us to work for change.

Barack in Des Moines, IA: "A new politics for a new time"

Amanda Scott — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 13:06:55 EDT

Barack traveled back to Iowa today, the place where the American people first voiced their need for change in Washington this past January.

Barack told Iowa why, even after 21 months of campaigning, we cannot let up now because our opponent will do everything he can in the next four days to tear us down.

Now, Senator McCain has served this country honorably. And he can point to a few moments over the past eight years where he has broken from George Bush. Just this morning, the McCain campaign put out an ad that showed me praising him and Senator Lieberman for their work on global warming – as if there’s something wrong with acknowledging when an opponent has said or done something that makes sense. I think we need more of that in Washington. I don’t disagree with Senator McCain on everything, and I respect his occasional displays of independence.
...We’ve tried it John McCain’s way. We’ve tried it George Bush’s way. Deep down, Senator McCain knows that, which is why his campaign said that “if we keep talking about the economy, we’re going to lose.” That’s why he’s spending these last weeks calling me every name in the book. Because that’s how you play the game in Washington. When you can’t win on the strength of your ideas, you make a big election about small things.

So I expect we’re going to see a lot more of that over the next four days. More of the slash and burn, say-anything, do-anything politics that’s calculated to divide and distract; to tear us apart instead of bringing us together.

A couple of elections ago, there was a presidential candidate who decried this kind of politics and condemned these kinds of tactics. And I admired him for it – we all did. He said, “I will not take the low road to the highest office in this land.” Those words were spoken eight years ago by my opponent, John McCain. But the high road didn’t lead him to the White House then, so this time, he decided to take a different route.

Now, I know campaigns are tough. Because we’ve got real differences about big issues and we care passionately about this country’s future. And make no mistake, we will respond swiftly and forcefully with the truth to whatever falsehoods they throw our way. The stakes are too high to do anything less.

But Iowa, at this moment, in this election, we have the chance to do more than just beat back this kind of politics – we have the chance to end it once and for all.

We have the chance to prove that the one thing more powerful than the politics of anything-goes – the one thing the cynics didn’t count on – is the will of the American people.

We have the chance to prove that we are more than a collection of Red States and Blue States – we are the United States of America.

That’s how we’ll steer ourselves out of this crisis – with a new politics for a new time. That’s how we’ll build the future we know is possible – as one people, as one nation. And that’s why I’m running for President of the United States of America.
Read Barack's full remarks, as prepared for delivery...

We have only four days to Get Out The Vote. And only four days to fight back against the negative ads. Make a donation today and sign up to volunteer for this weekend.

Students for Obama Making a Difference

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 11:19:32 EDT

The event has started with a performance by the Lincoln High school Marching Band. People are still lined up down the streets trying to get in, and their music is helping to keep everyone in high spirits.

Throughout this election, we’ve seen something special from young people getting involved—even if they are too young to vote. Just a few minutes ago, Secretary of State Michael A. Mauro released the results of the 2008 Iowa Student Mock Election. This year was a record breaking turnout with a total of 56,000 students taking part—and Barack Obama won the Election with 58% of the vote!

Now these Mock Election results won’t directly translate into turning Iowa blue, but we’ve seen thousands of Iowa students, in High school and College, put in tens of thousands of volunteer hours. It’s these efforts that are going to ensure our success on Election Day, and we need everyone out there signing up to get involved. Click here to help these students bring the change we need.

The event is heating up… more pictures coming soon.

Volunteers at Barack's Early Vote Rally in Des Moines

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 10:33:12 EDT

Hundreds of volunteers have already poured into the event and Get Out the Vote signup sheets are passing through the crowd. Music is being pumped in through several large sets of speaks placed strategically around the park and we’re hearing chants of Fired Up! Ready to Go!

There is a great atmosphere here, and some of the groups in these pictures are of Obama Organizing Teams. Here in Iowa, because of the intense organizing during the caucuses, tens of thousands of volunteers already knew each other, and these grassroots groups have formed as the foundation of our Get out the Vote efforts. If you’d like to join them, just sign up at your nearest “staging location” by clicking here.

Several weeks ago, we held the “Iowa Call Challenge” and hundreds of Iowans used our Neighbor to Neighbor online call tool to talk with Iowans about Barack and the change we need. We are happy to announce that the top five callers will be here at the rally today meeting Senator Obama. They are:

Gail Dietrich; Victor, Iowa
Kevin Healy; Ames, Iowa
Dennis Lee; Sergeant Bluff, Iowa
Sheryl McNew; Indianola, Iowa
Tim O'Neill; Hedrick, Iowa

There is still time to get down here to see Barack here in Des Moines. Click here for details.

Barack in Des Moines TODAY!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 10:04:46 EDT

A short line has already started to get into the Early Vote for Change Rally with Barack here in Des Moines! It’s a beautiful day, and if you don’t have plans yet, the doors open at 9:30 – so get on down here!

Here are the details:

Early Vote for Change Rally
with Barack Obama
Western Gateway Park
Between 12th St. and 13th St., Grand Ave. and Locust St.
Des Moines, IA 50309
Friday, October 31st
Gates Open: 9:30 a.m.
Program Begins: 11:30 a.m.
The event is free and open to the public; tickets are not required, but an RSVP is encouraged.
Public Entrance: Walnut St. and 12th St.
Parking is limited; car pooling and public transportation are recommended. The free Downtown Shuttle will be available from any of the Des Moines parking facilities.
For security reasons, do not bring bags or umbrellas. Please limit personal items. No signs or banners allowed.

Remember.. if you haven’t voted early yet, time is running out and today is another perfect day to go by your local county auditor’s office to vote early for the change we need. Click here to visit voteforchange.com and find where to early vote today!

Campaign Launches Closing Argument TV Ads

Amanda Scott — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:49:33 EDT

Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released two closing argument 30 second TV ads, “Rearview Mirror”, which answers for voters that if they wonder where John McCain will take the economy, they just have to look behind them as he will simply continue George Bush’s failed policies and “Something” which highlights that we can choose hope over fear, unity over division, the promise of change over the status quo and vote for Obama, a leader who will bring us together.

Watch "Rearview Mirror"...

Watch "Something"...

Donate today to help get these ads on the air.

Last chance to vote early for Barack

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:49:59 EDT

Zachary --

Barack is coming back to Iowa this week to rally on Friday, October 31st, because he knows how important this state is.

What began in Iowa nearly two years ago has set off a chain reaction -- and now all across the country, something is stirring.

You see it in the thousands of people who are casting early votes for change in Iowa and across the country.

But time is running out for you to be part of it.

The last day of Early Vote is coming up quickly, and this Saturday there are extended hours at your local county auditor's office.

Find your early vote location now, make sure your friends and family know about voting early, and cast your ballot for change today.

Iowa was there for Barack in the very beginning, and now the nation looks to us once again.

You can send a message and make your voice heard by voting early today.

A record number of people have already taken advantage of this opportunity. It's easy, convenient, and lets you avoid possible long lines on Election Day.

Voting early will also clear your schedule on November 4th, so you know you'll be free to volunteer in our historic get out the vote effort if you are interested.

All you need is a valid photo ID and proof of residency (like a water bill, electric bill, cable bill, or lease).

Find your Early Vote location now, bring a friend, and go vote today:

http://ia.voteforchange.com

Thanks for all that you do,

Tripp

Tripp Wellde
Field Director
Iowa Campaign for Change

P.S. -- The success of our GOTV effort hinges on volunteers, and that's why committing to volunteer is one of the best ways you can strengthen this campaign in the final days. Sign up to help us get out the vote here in Iowa:

http://ia.barackobama.com/november

Barack Obama to Host Change We Need Rally In Iowa on Friday

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:29:33 EDT

With Election Day around the corner, Senator Barack Obama will return to Iowa on Friday to hold a Change We Need rally in Des Moines. The rally will be open to the public.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP.

“Barack Obama’s campaign to change Washington has deep roots in Iowa, so it is fitting that he returns once again to remind Iowans what is at stake this election,” said Jackie Norris, Barack Obama’s Iowa State Director. “Iowa is a very special place for Senator Obama and we are thrilled to welcome him back during his final campaign swing.”

Senator Obama’s first trip to Iowa was February 10th – 11th, 2007 with a trip to Cedar Rapids, Waterloo and Ames. During the caucuses, Senator Obama held more than 100 town hall meetings with Iowans to answer questions and discuss his detailed plan to change Washington.

The details of the event are:

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31ST, 2008
Gates Open at 9:30 AM
Program Begins at 11:30 AM

CHANGE WE NEED RALLY WITH BARACK OBAMA

Western Gateway Park
Between 12th St. and 13th St., Grand Ave. and Locust St.
Des Moines, IA 50309

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are NOT required, but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. CLICK HERE TO RSVP.

Ottumwa Courier Endorses Barack

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 10:34:52 EDT

Obama for president
OUR ENDORSEMENT
These are difficult times.
The United States is facing an economic crisis unlike any we’ve seen since the Great Depression.
Health care, food and fuel costs are skyrocketing and too many Americans are doing without. Some have to choose between eating, staying warm or taking their prescription medicine.
After more than five years, the war in Iraq continues and there does not appear to be an “end game” in sight. The conflict in Afghanistan has intensified and terror concerns have not dissipated since 9/11.
The next president has a daunting agenda and now more than ever, we need a leader who has vision, can inspire and will produce real solutions.
Barack Obama is that man.
Despite the critics who argue the junior senator from Illinois lacks experience, we believe Obama is exactly the kind of leader we need now.
Former Secretary of State Colin Powell perhaps said it best:
Obama has “displayed a steadiness, an intellectual curiosity, a depth of knowledge and an approach to looking at problems like [the economic crisis] and picking a vice president ...” he said, adding Obama “has given us a more inclusive, broader reach into the needs and aspirations of our people. He’s crossing lines — ethnic lines, racial lines, generational lines.”
Obama’s opponent, Sen. John McCain is a war veteran, an American hero and has had a distinguished career in the Senate.
For years, he was the moderate maverick who worked with both Republicans and Democrats. He was always taking an independent approach to issues impacting our country, including illegal immigration and social issues.
We concede that the Courier editorial board was split over this endorsement. McCain, after all, is well versed in a number of areas, including foreign policy matters and how Washington works. But the majority of our board felt McCain’s campaign has trekked too far to the right.
In the end, this debate is about making a choice between Obama and McCain. Who will do the best job in moving us away from the past eight years of economic instability, partisan bickering and “cowboy diplomacy?”
We believe it is Obama who has shown he is prepared to take on the serious challenges we face as a nation.
A week prior to the Iowa Caucuses, Obama told the editorial board that now is the time for something greater than ourselves.
We believe it is Obama who has shown he is prepared to take on the serious challenges we face as a nation.

A week prior to the Iowa Caucuses, Obama told the editorial board that now is the time for something greater than ourselves.

Pick a time and place in Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 10:42:26 EDT

Our campaign sent out this email last night encouraging everyone to sign up for a Get Out the Vote shift. We need everyone for this important final push-- so don't forget to sign up.

Dear Zachary,

This race will be won or lost in a few crucial battleground states -- including Iowa.

Our get out the vote operation in Iowa is ready to go, but now it's up to you to fill the volunteer shifts. You can pick the exact day and time you'd like to help out, and we'll tell you where.

No experience is necessary. Campaign staff and volunteers will give you everything you need to be part of this historic effort.

Sign up for a volunteer shift in Iowa right now.

The last four days before Election Day will be the most important of this entire campaign.

Everything we have worked for over the past 20 months will come down to what we do -- or don't do -- to get out the vote.

Change never comes without a fight, and it won't come at all unless each of us does our part.

It's in your hands. Will you help make history with us?

Sign up for a volunteer shift right now. Decide what day and time you want to make a difference.

Thanks for all you've done.

Now let's make sure we don't wake up on November 5th wishing we had done more.

Obama for America

Quad-City Times Endorses Barack Obama: Ready to Lead

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 14:10:48 EDT

Ready to lead
By the Times Editorial Board
Experience or change? If we had a nickel every time each word was uttered in this presidential campaign, we could bail out the reckless lenders, cover the war debt and provide another stimulus package. Yet those two words don’t begin to cover the skills and attributes necessary in our next president.

What about temperament, judgment, decision-making and knowledge? How about stamina, education and ethics?

These are among the considerations that support our enthusiastic endorsement of Barack Obama for president of the United States.

Already, Obama’s appeal and campaign organization is leading the biggest voter turnout in history, bringing millions of new voters to the polls, thereby strengthening our democracy.

Already, Obama is demonstrating presidential leadership and demeanor, displaying steely calm against an avalanche of unfair attacks, distortions and distractions.

Already, Obama has erased any concerns we had during the caucus campaigns by earning the support of all of his primary opponents, and picking one of our favorites as his running mate.

The biggest change we’ve experienced since the caucuses is in our assessment of John McCain. The straight talk that won our caucus endorsement has been consumed by campaign doublespeak and some fairly awful decisions for the guy wearing the experience mantle. John McCain approved the messages that made Paris Hilton and Joe the Plumber campaign issues. These sly distractions seemed beneath a true hero who earned his reputation by avoiding such nonsense. Most troubling is his vice presidential pick. Sarah Palin’s populist appeal holds promise. Her soaring political career track from hockey mom to Alaska governor simply isn’t enough to merit the giant step to the Oval Office.

We don’t question her potential. But today, she clearly is not ready to assume the presidency.

Barack Obama is. He’s experienced America at many levels: his Kansas roots; diverse Hawaii; elite Harvard; south side Chicago.

He’s demonstrated civic responsibility at just as many levels: organizing in neighborhoods, politicking in Chicago, legislating in Springfield, debating in Congress and traveling internationally on diplomatic missions.

Where his experience comes up short, he has sought out help, including Republicans like U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar and former Secretary of State Colin Powell. Obama picked a running mate who could assume the presidency tomorrow.

All along, Obama has been unwavering in his assertion that Afghanistan, not Iraq, is the target in our war on terrorism. Helping the middle class, not betting on trickle-down tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans, has been the consistent focus of his economic plan.

We support a presidential candidate predisposed toward reaching out to world leaders, not one entrenched in Cold War-style standoffs.

The clincher for us came in our Quad-City meetings with Obama as state senator, U.S. Senator and presidential candidate. In each instance, we’ve experienced consistent character, superior intellect, engaging curiosity and specific knowledge of our Quad-Cities.

We weren’t quite there last January when change began in Iowa. We are now.

We support Barack Obama for president.

Des Moines Register Editorial Board Endorses Barack Obama

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 10:59:50 EDT

Register editorial board endorses Obama for President
THE REGISTER'S EDITORIAL BOARD • OCTOBER 25, 2008

Barely two years into Barack Obama's first term as a U.S. senator, he launched an unlikely presidential candidacy imbued, he acknowledged, with a "certain audacity."

Casualties were mounting in Iraq, memories of the government's failed response to Hurricane Katrina still stung, and a majority of Americans told pollsters they believed the country was on the wrong track.

Yet in announcing his presidential bid, Obama outlined a bold, hopeful vision for America:

"Let us be the generation that reshapes our economy to compete in the digital age. ... Let's be the generation that ensures our nation's workers are sharing in our prosperity. ... Let's be the generation that ends poverty in America. ... Let's be the generation that finally tackles our health-care crisis. ... Let's be the generation that finally frees America from the tyranny of oil."

Critics immediately cast his talk of hope and change as naive and his lack of history on the national and international stage as too risky for the presidency.

First test: winning the Iowa caucuses, perceived by many as an improbable feat for a black candidate in an overwhelmingly white state. But Obama believed in the power of his ideas and ideals, and the capacity of Americans to unite around them.

Eleven months later, after more than 80 days spent campaigning in the state, Iowans awarded him victory. They had heard his soaring oratory and sensed his uncommon intelligence, but they also witnessed much more: the consistency of his calls for unifying around common purpose, rather than pandering to age-old divisions, and the way he remained unflappable and his staff disciplined no matter what tumult the campaign trail delivered.

Those qualities have become even more pronounced this fall, during an increasingly negative general-election campaign against Republican Sen. John McCain and descent of the nation's economy into the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. It has been Obama, not the more experienced McCain, who kept his center as events tilted crazily.

Obama has earned the Register's endorsement for the presidency because of his steadfastness in the face of uncertainty, his clear-eyed vision for a more just America and his potential for rallying the country to do great things.

Would work to strengthen the struggling middle class

Obama's life story embodies America's promise: that someone from modest means can study, work and get ahead. His parents - his mother from Kansas and his father from Kenya - divorced when he was a child. His grandparents helped raise him, and his mother made sure he studied hard. Eventually, he became the first black editor of the Harvard Law Review and graduated magna cum laude.

Before law school, though, he worked as a community organizer in Chicago and saw that for too many families, the American promise of opportunity had faded: Schools were poor, wages had stagnated and jobs had shifted overseas in a globalizing economy.

Since his first visits to Iowa, Obama has correctly emphasized improved public schools and greater access to college as the investment that will buoy the American economy long-term. He favors a progressive tax policy, taxing those at the very highest rungs of income a little more to provide a little more help to those on the bottom rungs.

In a speech more than a year ago, long before this fall's financial crisis, he decried the nation's rising income inequality and the notion "that the market will correct all our misfortunes, and that there's no problem that can't be solved by another tax break that the wealthy didn't need."

Neither Obama nor McCain is an expert on the economy. But Obama appropriately places emphasis on strengthening the middle class. And as a state senator in Illinois, in the U.S. Senate and through the rigors of the campaign, he has shown a willingness to seek others' advice, listen and strive for consensus - crucial characteristics in troubled times.

Other key parts of Obama's agenda would help shore up the middle class and the U.S. economy for decades to come: Expanding health-insurance coverage to more Americans will lessen the threat that illness will bring financial ruin. Pumping research dollars into developing clean alternatives to fossil fuels and investing in energy efficiency will maintain America's technological edge and create good-paying green-collar jobs.

McCain has run erratic, disappointing campaign

Judging by their records and statements, both Obama and McCain promise to correct the worst abuses of the Bush administration: its arrogant, go-it-alone approach to foreign policy and its insidious insistence that maintaining national security requires embrace of torture and sacrifice of fundamental civil liberties.

McCain, like Obama, brought an appealing personal history to the campaign. He's a genuine American hero, enduring 5 ½ years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam while refusing early release, serving more than 20 years in the Navy, and taking unconventional stands that often opposed his party and popular sentiment during a quarter century in Congress. The Register's editorial board endorsed McCain for the Republican nomination and looked forward to a serious-minded contest between competing ideologies and worthy foes.

But it's as if McCain has lost his way, forfeiting principle for gain of a few points in the polls. He put on hold his long-sought quest for comprehensive immigration reform. Though widely regarded as a man of honor, he has overseen a campaign premised on purposeful distortions about Obama and his record.

Worst of all, in grasping for political edge in his choice of a running mate, he burdened his ticket and potentially the country with an individual utterly unqualified to ascend to the presidency. Before choosing Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, McCain emphasized the importance of experience and sound judgment in fighting terrorism and confronting a restive Russia and a rising China. He has also questioned Obama's readiness to be commander in chief. Then he picked a running mate who clearly isn't ready.

An appeal to bridge divisions, tackle problems

There are other good arguments for Obama's election. The next president might make several Supreme Court nominations. Obama promises to appoint justices with an expansive view of constitutional rights and equal justice. McCain's appointments more likely would continue the court's conservative shift and threaten abortion rights, search-and-seizure protections and other individual liberties.

Obama also is committed to withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq as quickly and as safely as possible. McCain talks about winning and success, but says little about when troops will come home.

None of what Obama outlines will be easy, whether removing troops from Iraq without chaos or addressing climate change without stunting the economy.

In recent years, America has shrunk from big challenges, stymied by "the smallness of our politics" and "our chronic avoidance of tough decisions," as Obama put it in his announcement speech.

Tackling big problems will first require Americans to bridge divisions, he has said, and then roll up our sleeves.

That message continues to resonate with Iowans. In a September Iowa Poll, 54 percent of respondents rated Obama as the candidate who would be most successful in unifying the country, an 18-point edge over McCain.

When Obama first met with the Register's editorial board more than a year ago, he emphasized that when deciding to run, "I wasn't simply a young man in a hurry."

"I think there's this particular window right now where the country is hungry for change, and is also hungry to be brought together, as opposed to being driven apart," he said. "And I thought that the particular skills that I have, of bringing people from diverse backgrounds across lines of race or party or region or faith to focus on solving problems, was a particularly useful and needed skill right now."

Indeed, it is. An Obama presidency presents the best hope for a unified America that aspires to greatness again.

Jim Leach and the Iowa Economy

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:23:49 EDT

Women for Obama Tractor from the Madison County Covered Bridge Parade

Today in Iowa, Former U.S. Rep. Jim Leach continues his travels across the state talking with Iowans about Barack Obama and early voting here in Iowa. As one of the Iowa leaders of Republicans for Obama, Rep. Leach makes a clear argument for why we should be discussing the important issues that affect Iowa, and why Barack is the best candidate to represent the heartland economy. Check out some comments he made yesterday evening in the article below.

If you are ready to vote for the change we need, there are extended hours across the state today, and it’s the last day to vote early without an ID! Visit www.voteforchange.com to find where you can vote early TODAY!

Leach touts Obama to Republicans, independents
Saturday, October 25, 2008
By Russ Mitchell
Former U.S. Rep. Jim Leach wants his fellow republicans to do what he did earlier this summer. The eastern Iowan took a pass on his party's presidential nominee and went to Denver for a convention speech supporting Barack Obama.
The tenor of the election has played a factor in the longtime congressman's decision.
"To me, Senator Obama, is very much in the category of someone trying to bring the country together," Leach said. "And then, if you look at some of the words out there, my party's candidates have been using the 's' word, and by that I mean socialism. It's not socialist to offer a much bigger middle-class tax cut than Senator McCain. It's not socialist to support ethanol and wind energy, which are so critical to northwest Iowa."
…
I think for those who really think we need a new approach to world affairs, I think Senator Obama is really presenting an alternative approach that is very much rooted in American history and American values and will symbolize great change at a time when we need great change. We have never gone through a period in which the American brand has been more challenged than it is today."
…
Leach also said he is "exceptionally impressed" with the quality of the advisors Obama has assembled in the areas of economics and foreign policy.
"If you look at the Iowa economy and if you look at the northwest Iowa economy in particular, Obama in his brief career has been a strong advocate of wind energy," he said. "Senator McCain has voted against it at every turn. Obama has been a strong advocate of ethanol. Senator McCain has maintained stark opposition to ethanol. That is a profound contrast for Iowa economics."
The former congressman also has confidence in Obama's tax policy.
"Obama has carved out a very unique position," Leach said. "It's the first time I've ever known this contrast. He has a far bigger middle-class tax cut than Senator McCain does. Now, he also has a higher income tax increase, so what he's trying to suggest is: We've got to create a new fairness back in the tax code so one can expect higher income tax brackets to go up to the range where they were in the Clinton years."
Prior to his Spencer stop, Leach made an appearance in Sioux City. He has stops planned in Mason City and Waterloo on Saturday.

Barack needs our help

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:49:57 EDT

Senator Tom Harkin just sent out this email to our supporters in Iowa. We need your help to get out the vote, but in order to be able to volunteer on Election Day-- you need to vote early. Visit ww.voteforchange.com to ensure you are available to help us turn Iowa blue.

Dear Zach,
Right now in towns and cities across Iowa, folks are getting together and deciding whom they will support in this election.

That's why we should be concerned with the amount of attention the Republican Party has suddenly given Iowa. This weekend, John McCain and Sarah Palin will be stopping in cities across the state, and their campaign has continued to spend money on advertising, new offices, and new staff members.

It's quickly becoming clear that the Republicans' road to the White House goes straight through Iowa, and millions of Americans are counting on us to fight back.

Will you help get out the vote to make sure Barack wins Iowa?

With less than two weeks until Election Day, the Campaign for Change is launching the largest Iowa get out the vote operation in history -- but it can only succeed if supporters like you get involved.

The McCain campaign and the RNC will do everything they can to win Iowa, and they are planning to launch their legendary 72-hour voter contact operation leading up to Election Day -- the same program that helped George Bush win Iowa in 2004.

I know we can win Iowa for Barack. Step up now and help get out the vote during these final crucial weeks:

http://iowa.barackobama.com/iowagotv

What we do -- or don't do -- in the next two weeks could decide the outcome of this race. Let's finish this where it all began.

Best,

Tom Harkin
United States Senator

Hope Needs You to Vote -- Early

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:48:45 EDT

It's another great day to vote early here in Iowa-- and there is only one day left where you can vote without providing ID.

This is the easiest way to vote in Iowa, and time is running out!

www.voteforchange.com

You can register and vote all at once-- so there is no excuse not to vote early today!

VoteForChange.com: Post-It Note

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:05:55 EDT

A few days ago Ron Livingston, an Iowa native and golden globe nominated actor, got a chance to film this short video about voting early for change...

Now that you've seen Ron's "post-it notes" -- here's a little note that you should pass on to people:

Visit www.voteforchange.com and vote early in Iowa today,

Everyone Can Vote Early

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 10:58:12 EDT

It's Easy to Vote Early in Iowa-- even if you aren't registered or have never voted before. And, for just two more days, until Saturday the 25th, you don't even need to show an ID when you vote!

Everyone is doing it. Use www.voteforchange.com to find where you can vote early TODAY.

Luther College students are voting early for change- what are you waiting for? You can Vote Early for Change TODAY.

www.voteforchange.com

Smile-- You Can Vote Early for Change TODAY!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:46:45 EDT

Have you voted early yet? Do you know anyone else who might not have voted early yet? Call them, send them an email, walk next door and tell them, just get the word out!

You can vote early for change TODAY all over Iowa! It's easy and a great way to spend a few minutes of your day.

Find where you can vote early near you. Visit www.voteforchange.com

Iowa in the News: Obama adviser's editorials

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:33:27 EDT

This morning two editorials were published in the Des Moines register from Barack Obama's foreign policy advisers. If you'd like to read more of his policies, click here. And if you'd like to ask a policy question to our Iowa Policy Director, click here.

Over the next 2 weeks, we are going to need to make sure that every Iowan has the opportunity to get their questions answered. The best way to accomplish this is to talk with neighbors face to face, or by phone. Stop by your local office, or use our Neighbor to Neighbor tool to start making calls right now!

Obama adviser: Cut troop presence in Iraq; deploy more to Afghanistan
In 2002, Barack Obama stood up to oppose the invasion of Iraq, against the tide of popular opinion. He warned that America's first priority must be to win the fight against Osama bin Laden and al-Qaida in Afghanistan, from where they directed the atrocities of Sept. 11.
Obama was right then, as many supporters of the war in Iraq now concede. That war has become an indefinite occupation with no clear strategy for success. Worse, the diversion of resources and strategic focus to Iraq has meant lost ground in Afghanistan.
As president, Obama will lead the United States and its allies to victory against the Taliban and al-Qaida in Afghanistan - the real central front in the war on terrorism. He will start by directing the Joint Chiefs to plan for and execute a responsible redeployment of American combat forces from Iraq.
For six years, our troops in Iraq have done everything we've asked. They've succeeded against terrible odds to reduce violence in Iraq, in particular by deploying new counterinsurgency methods and by brokering partnerships with local leaders. That success demonstrates, however, that military force alone cannot produce the political settlements needed to end their civil war. The Iraqis must act to create their own peace.
Our best leverage is to reduce our troop presence, while committing to and sustaining the hard diplomatic work that will be necessary to ensure a viable Iraq.
In Afghanistan, beginning with the deployment of at least two additional combat brigades, Obama will also reinforce and restructure our military, counterterrorism and civilian resources there. The United States and our NATO allies will defeat al-Qaida and the Taliban, provide security and stability to the elected government and begin to dismantle the terrorist networks that again find sanctuary along the border with Pakistan.
Pakistan, too, must eliminate the terrorist training camps on its territory, evict foreign fighters and prevent the Taliban from using Pakistan to stage attacks against the United States, our NATO allies and the Afghan people. Obama would condition U.S. military aid to Pakistan on the progress it makes in meeting these requirements.
Finally, Obama will deliberately engage the citizenry in Afghanistan and Iraq to dry up support for terror and extremism.
The responsible redeployment of our forces from Iraq to Afghanistan is the vital first steps of a strategy for lasting American success. Obama will make that strategy our path to victory.
Obama adviser: robust diplomacy; restore trust in America
Winning the fight against the Taliban and al-Qaida will be the single most important objective of Barack Obama's first term as president. But this is just the beginning of what we must achieve.

In the 21st century, confronting unconventional threats such as terrorism, nuclear proliferation and climate change will require the United States to secure the cooperation of other countries. For this, we must restore the trust in America that makes American leadership possible.
The next president must use all the tools in its arsenal to keep weapons of mass destruction out of terrorists' hands. Obama intends to strengthen the U.S. military, which has been stretched to its breaking point. He also knows that neither tough talk nor silence is a substitute for aggressive diplomacy. Obama will end the timidity that too long has excused inaction and allowed Iran and other dangerous states to gain strength. A confident United States will engage friend and foe alike. Obama will make plain that the United States will confront threats to our liberty or safety, but work with all those willing to make common cause with progress.
Obama also knows that any diplomacy will fail if those who would be our friends suffer the tyrannies of anarchy and poverty. Freedom must mean freedom from fear, whether from dictators or lawless chaos, and whether from the bondage of an empty stomach or an uneducated mind. With China rising, and Russia resurgent, the world is eager to see the restoration of tough and principled U.S. leadership.

That is why Obama will focus American support on helping struggling countries to build the governing institutions of modern societies. That is also why Obama will make poverty reduction a central part of our effort to keep Americans safe.
But none of what we must accomplish will be possible without trust in America, and in the American example. As president, Obama will demonstrate that we do not export our prisoners for torture. We do not lock suspects away forever without charge. We do not betray our Constitution to spy on our citizens. And in the United States of America, no person - especially not the president - is above the law.

As president, Obama will start at home to rebuild the strength of the American idea that others have followed. For it is U.S. leadership across the globe that will make us prosperous and secure.

Iowa Newspaper Endorsements: Globe Gazette and Burlington Hawkeye

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 13:09:20 EDT

Barack was endorsed by two Iowa newspapers this morning, but they aren’t going to win this election. We need you to get in touch with your local office, or find an event near you, and help us reach out to your neighbors with face to face conversations about why Barack will bring the change we need.

Obama is best bet to heal our country (Globe Gazette Editorial)
…
Recognizing the discontent in the country with the past eight years, McCain has jumped on the “change” bandwagon. But no matter how many times he invokes the “maverick” mantle, in the areas that are most important to most Americans a McCain presidency has the worrying potential to be a continuation of the failed policies of the past.

McCain is wrong on the war, wrong on taxes, wrong on health care and, from a purely Iowa perspective, wrong on ethanol. American-made ethanol and other biofuels should remain an important part of the answer as we work toward energy independence.
…
No, McCain is not the person for the job we need done.

The nation needs someone who has the temperament, the intelligence, the perspective, the vision and the compassion to steer us through the obstacles ahead.

That man is Barack Obama.

Obama has emerged from the crucible of the campaign as someone who is poised under pressure, a natural-born leader who inspires both by word and deed.

He recognizes that our problems are shared, and he calls upon each of us to take responsibility for dealing with challenges in a way perhaps not seen since John F. Kennedy implored the nation’s citizens to ask “... what you can do for your country.”

The problems are real and the solutions will not be easy, but Obama shows great faith in the ability of Americans to rise to the occasion. His own life story is evidence of that potential.

Perhaps most significant is Obama’s view of the world and his intellectual curiosity. His is not a stark one-dimensional viewpoint where everything is either good or bad, right or wrong, black or white. He recognizes rightly that the world and its problems are presented in shades of gray and that the solutions to those problems are likewise multi-dimensional.

With Obama it’s not “America: Love it or leave it.” Rather it’s “America: Love it enough to make it better.” His enthusiasm and charisma can go a long way toward healing this country and uniting us in common purpose.
…
Obama is not perfect. But he’s right on most of the issues. He is the best bet before us to heal this country, change the politics of Washington, unite us and guide us out of our current crisis. In a choice between the future and the past, the decision is easy.

Barack Obama is the best choice for the next president of the United States.

Obama for president Barack Obama makes the most compelling case for positive change in America.
…
Our choice for the job is Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois.
He's a man of high intellect, a point even his opponent is forced to acknowledge. Few gave him a chance to beat the Clinton machine to the nomination, but he had it wrapped up before the final primaries.
In Obama, Americans have hope for genuine change from the failed policies of the George W. Bush administration, policies that led us into an unnecessary war in Iraq, eroded our credibility around the world and turned a regulatory blind eye that has fueled the current economic crisis.
Nearly all of Bush's initiatives won favor from Republican John McCain. Though he is a genuine American hero whose heart is in the right place, we can't have four more years of the kind of conservatism that ushered us into our current financial state.
…
Obama understands, for example, that prosperity must include a quality education and a quality education starts even before kindergarten.
He understands a nation of healthy Americans can be competitive in the world market and has a plan to expand access to quality health care to more of us.
He knows removing troops from Iraq must be done carefully, but must be done as soon as possible. The Iraqi government must take more responsibility for its own security.
Given the plate left behind by the current president, the next four years will be excruciatingly challenging for the next administration.
With Sen. Joe Biden as vice president, an Obama administration will have the experience to handle the job.

Senator Dick Durbin's Visit to Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 18:46:12 EDT

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) just got finished with his visit to Iowa and was able to stop in Marion, Tama, Iowa City, Muscatine, Bettendorf, Davenport. He met with hundreds of supporters and undecided voters to talk about Barack and early voting here in Iowa.

We've got a few picture of his events below, and John Deeth, a blogger from Iowa City, gives a great re-cap from his visit.

Durbin doesn't mind being 'the other Illinois Senator'

Dick Durbin, the senior senator from Illinois, doesn't mind at all that he's being overshadowed by his junior colleague, Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.

"It reminds me of a baseball player who's been on the team for a while, and he's got a good batting average, people like him, and along comes this MVP rookie, and the next thing you know, you're in the World Series," Durbin, the Assistant Majority Leader in the Senate, told Iowa Independent. "That's the way I feel. Along came Barack, and I could see our party changing, and I could see our country changing. I couldn't be happier."

…
Durbin is Downstate to Obama's South Side, a folksy and conversational contrast to Obama's oratory, but the two have long been political allies. Durbin was one of Obama's earliest supporters, and traveled to Iowa with Obama on the day Obama announced his candidacy in February 2007.

“Iowa launched the campaign of Barack Obama for president" in the caucuses, Durbin told the midday crowd of students. "That really was the beginning. Now we've gotta close the deal.”

“20 years from now people are going to as you where were you when Barack Obama was elected, and you don't want to say you were down at Culver's eating butter burgers," said Durbin. "You want to day you were part of history.” Part of the pitch was to encourage students to vote early to free up more time to help get out the vote on Election Day. The senator steered voters toward a satellite voting site at the Old Capitol Mall, two blocks to the south. “I don't want to encourage you to cut classes and vote early... but it is Friday afternoon.” Over 2,500 voters took advantage of the five days of voting at Old Capitol Mall, which ended Friday. More sites open beginning Monday.

“The people who need tax breaks are not the wealthiest Americans," said Durbin. "The people who need tax breaks are your moms and dads sending you to college. The economy is a mess because we have followed the lead of George Bush.”
…
Durbin, as most Democratic surrogate speakers do, praised John McCain the Man while opposing McCain on policy. “John McCain is a great guy. He's served our country well. But when we look to the future we need leaders who look to the future. Barack Obama gets it. He gets it better than I do to be honest.”

Join Us for the 99 County Canvass

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 11:51:23 EDT

All across Iowa, Obama supporters will be going out in neighborhoods this weekend to canvass all 99 counties. We need you to help us, because Iowa won't turn blue unless we get more people out to vote for Barack than in 2004 when George Bush won our state.

Click here to find a canvass near you, or get in touch with your local office if you have any questions.

One of the main focuses of the canvasses will been talking about Early Voting here in Iowa. It's easy, even if you aren't registered or haven't ever voted before.

To find where to vote early for the change we need, click here.

Join us at the canvass near you.

McCain Campaign Launches Vicious "Robocall" Attacks

Christopher Hass — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:53:31 EDT

Yesterday, reports began to surface in key battleground states across the country of a new wave of misleading, offensive "robocalls" being paid for by the McCain campaign and their allies. In Iowa, local news station KCCI reported on one of these calls last night:

The report highlights not just the attacks, but also the negative backlash they're having on local voters:

Marilyn Greene, a registered Independent voter, was floored when she got the call. She feels there's too much on the line in this election to stoop to this level.

Marilyn Greene: Stick to the issues. What can you do? What are you looking toward? And of course with the economy and the crisis we're in now.
Tina Fisher: That's clearly a misrepresentation and it's brazen and outrageous.

Tina Fisher was also insulted by the message and hopes voters are smart enough not to fall for these scare tactics.

If you receive one of these negative calls, you can help fight back by reporting the content of the call to the campaign. Visit FightTheSmears.com/report for information on how to record and report any offensive robocalls or campaign literature that you receive.

IOWA IN THE NEWS: Campaign Robocalls Anger Some Iowa Voters

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:43:55 EDT

Campaign Robocalls Anger Some Iowa Voters

Some central Iowa voters said a voicemail message on behalf of Sen. John McCain's presidential campaign has gone too far.

The automated messages, also known as robocalls, have been ringing phones in Iowa homes since the last presidential debate. The message talks about a relationship between Sen. Barack Obama and '60s radical Bill Ayers.

"You need to know Barack Obama has worked closely with domestic terrorist Bill Ayers, whose organization bombed the U.S. Capitol, the Pentagon, a judge's home and killed Americans," the message said.

A report by Time Magazine and The Chicago Sun-Times said no one was ever injured in the attacks by Ayers and his group.

Obama said during Wednesday's debate that he met Ayers when he served on a board with him, many years after Ayers' involvement with the Weather Underground.

"It was vicious," said independent voter Marilyn Greene. "It was a hateful, vicious message."

She said there's too much on the line in this election for candidates to stoop to this level.

"Stick to the issues," she said. "What can you do? What are you looking toward?"

"That's clearly a misrepresentation and it's brazen and outrageous," said Tina Fisher, who also got one of the phone calls. "This, to me, suggests total loss of control and, quite frankly, seems a little desperate."

Fisher said she felt the calls go against the message McCain has tried to send out on the campaign trail, especially during an appearance last week.

"When that gentleman said he was scared of Barack Obama, McCain said you have nothing to fear," Fisher said.

"He's a decent, family man, a citizen," McCain said to another supporter about Obama. "I just happen to have disagreements with him on fundamental issues."

A spokesman for the Iowa Republican Party said he was unaware of the messages. The McCain campaign did not return Newschannel 8's phone calls.

Watch the video from the KCCI broadcast.

Senator Kerry Visits Iowa--- Meets with Iowa Veterans

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:13:07 EDT

Earlier this week, Senator John Kerry visited Iowa to meet with Iowa veterans and with local supporters to talk about the importance of Voting Early. We have a unique opportunity here and we need everyone to find where to vote early, and then encourage others to do the same.

If you are looking for ways to make a difference, this weekend will be extremely important for our organization, and we will be holding canvasses in all 99 counties. To join us, and to help get votes for Barack right now, click here to signup for the 99 county canvass.

Here are just a few pictures from the events with Senator Kerry, and then an article from the Times-Republican reporting on his trip.

Kerry sees a different McCain today
Coming back to the state that launched his campaign for the presidency four years ago Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass., returned to Iowa on behalf of Barack Obama, talking to residents at the Iowa Veterans Home.
"I'm not running for president, obviously," he said. "But I care about what happens enormously."
Kerry said he has great respect for John McCain, the Republican nominee, but said there have been a number of changes as McCain has worked to secure the base of the GOP.
"The John McCain I see today running for president is completely different than the John McCain I saw four years ago," he said.
Kerry said McCain has been a leader on many issues such as immigration, climate change and others. Now, many of those bills McCain once sponsored, Kerry now says McCain would vote against.
Kerry noted McCain pledged to run a clean campaign, but cited a recent news analysis that said all McCain's television ads were negative hit pieces on Obama.
The former presidential hopeful also said McCain has voted for Bush's agenda 90 percent of the time.
"I ask you the question: Do you want to take a chance on 10-percent change?" Kerry said.

99 ways to make a difference for Barack

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:44:53 EDT

Jackie Norris, the Iowa State Director, just sent out this email encouraging everyone to attend a weekend canvass-- we'll be in all 99 counties talking about Barack and the change we need! The focus of the canvassing this weekend will be to encourage our supporters to vote early-- so if you still haven't voted for Barack yet, click here to find an early voting location near you.

Dear Zachary,

When supporters get together to talk with their neighbors, powerful things happen.

We've seen the success of this grassroots strategy during the caucuses, and it's helped to grow our organization into every corner of the state. From Allamakee County to Greene County, from Osceola County to Jefferson County, we've seen neighbors coming together to bring the change we need.

But now that we are in the final push to Election Day, we need to double our organizing effort.

Will you join our 99 County Canvass this weekend and help put Barack over the top?

Thousands of voters across the state still need to hear Barack's message of change and find out about Early Voting.

That's why this weekend supporters are coming together to go door-to-door in each of Iowa's 99 counties and talk to voters about the importance of Early Voting.

And with the narrow Early Voting window already open in Iowa, this is the crucial moment to get involved for the first time or step up again.

Right now people are paying more attention than ever before, and every person who votes early is someone who can tell their friends they voted for Barack and the change we need.

Early Voting also frees up key resources for our Get Out The Vote program and helps us reach out to more people on Election Day.

Come together with fellow supporters in your county this weekend and reach out face-to-face with your neighbors:

http://ia.barackobama.com/99iowacounties

We need to make sure every Iowan knows about this opportunity to vote early, and with your help, we can finish this race right where it began.

Thanks for your support,

Jackie

Jackie Norris
Iowa State Director
Obama for America

P.S. -- Early Voting is one of the most important ways to show your support for Barack and build momentum for this movement. Find your Early Vote location now and cast your ballot for change:

http://www.voteforchange.com

Jim McGovern Speaks at the Iowa Hunger Summit

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 12:11:59 EDT

Congressman Jim McGovern hit a home run for Senator Obama at the Iowa Hunger Summit yesterday in Des Moines. In a featured event of the World Food Prize Symposium, McGovern debated Jim Moseley on the presidential candidate's views on hunger. For those of you who know Jim McGovern I need not say more – he is a leader in Congress on hunger issues and he was knowledgeable, passionate, and specific about how a President Obama would make ending hunger a true national priority.

He put considerable emphasis on the Obama pledge to end childhood hunger by 2015 and on the imperative of stronger funding for America's nutrition programs. McGovern also did not miss the opportunity to observe that our spending $10 billion a month in Iraq denies our nation the resources needed to change the direction of our country. The audience of about 300 clearly expressed their warm appreciation for the Obama message that McGovern helped to deliver.

You can read more about Obama’s hunger plan at http://my.barackobama.com/fighthunger

Before the discussion, attendees ate a lunch featuring meals used by Iowa-based organizations in food assistance and hunger-relief efforts. The picture above shows some of those meals. With rising food prices here in the U.S., more and more people are turning to food banks and other food assistance organizations, and Barack has said that “my top priority is making sure that people are able to get enough to eat.” To read more about his plan to tackle domestic hunger, click here.

IOWA IN THE NEWS: Energized E. Iowa youth nail down presidential pick

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 10:58:41 EDT

Early Voting is easy for college students in Iowa.
Click here to find your early voting location right now.

Young voters: You have our attention
By Samantha Miller
The Gazette

IOWA CITY — Four hundred and sixty-eight people, mostly University of Iowa students, lined up outside the early voting site in the Old Capitol Town Center on Monday.
Meanwhile, 218 people voted at Mayflower Residence Hall as a full schedule of daily satellite voting kicked off in Johnson County, the county Auditor’s Office reported.
A galvanized student population is demonstrating fervor rivaling what it showed during last year’s city election here, when a proposed 21-and-older bar ordinance was defeated, largely because of a passionate student voting base.
The Gazette interviewed 30 UI students leading up to tonight’s final presidential debate between Republican John McCain and Democrat Barack Obama and 29 people said they will vote in the Nov. 4 election. The who’s and whys, however, greatly varied.
“Obviously, since we’re the future generation, it’s our responsibility,” said freshman Marit Berg, 18, of Waukesha, Wis. Berg voted for Obama at the Old Capitol Town Center site.
Four of every five eligible voters ages 18 to 24 is registered to vote in Johnson County going into this week. They comprised 21,471 voters, up from 18,485, or 68.5 percent of the eligible 18- to 24year-olds, last year.
That’s a staggering number, even by standards in Johnson County, which has a liberal university town, where political activity usually is high and people are inundated by political commercials and brochures.
“It’s an interesting place,” said Lisa Allen, deputy auditor of elections in the county.
Interestingly, several students planning to vote still have not determined for whom. For many, the economy will be a main factor.
Freshman Seth Mosbrucker, 19, of Bettendorf, said, “I’m going to vote for the person who I think will best suit the economy right now.” He added, “I want my money.” UI freshman Maggie O’Brien, 18, of Crystal Lake, Ill., said she doesn’t feel she understands enough, especially economic issues, yet to make an informed decision.
“Right now I’m just trying to take everything into consideration so that I understand,” she said. “I just want to make sure I know everything.” Undecided Nick Westlund, a 19-year-old sophomore from Cedar Rapids, said, “I’m definitely trying to pay more attention this election, and that’s why I want to be sure I’m voting for someone who’s representing my ideas.” Obama supporters said he’ll bring change, though what that change represents varied among students.
Daniel Smith, 22, a Minden junior, said he wants to see change in the government.
Andrew Weber, 18, an Iowa City freshman, said Obama’s different from many politicians because “he’s not necessarily about America being the best, but about America trying to be a team player.”

Alliance for Retired Americans Endorses Obama

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 18:21:37 EDT

Citing his strong support for Social Security in a time of economic anxiety, the national Alliance for Retired Americans today endorsed Senator Barack Obama for President.

“Retirees are more worried than ever,” said Alliance President George J. Kourpias, adding, “not only are they concerned about their own retirement security, but they worry about what lies ahead for their children and grandchildren.”

Iowa Alliance members marked the endorsement with an event this morning in Des Moines. U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA) was the featured speaker.

“Barack Obama opposes Social Security privatization, because he knows that we can’t gamble away our savings on Wall Street. He will fix our health care mess, lower the cost of prescription drugs, and do away with income taxes for seniors earning less than $50,000. We are proud to support the Obama-Biden ticket,” Kourpias said.

In contrast, Kourpias noted, John McCain fully embraces President Bush’s plan to privatize Social Security, having voted three times to take money out of the Social Security Trust Fund and create private accounts tied to the roulette wheel of the stock market.

“George Bush and John McCain must be the only two people left who think Wall Street is good place for Social Security,” said Don Rowen, President of the Iowa Alliance for Retired Americans, which represents 30,000 members. According to the Congressional Budget Office, Americans’ retirement accounts have lost up to $2 trillion in the past 15 months.

Rowen said that retirees were “deeply offended” this summer when John McCain, who receives $23,000 in annual benefits, said it was “an absolute disgrace” that younger workers must pay for current Social Security beneficiaries. “Over 500,000 Iowa residents receive Social Security – they are our elderly, our widows and widowers, and our young children who have seen a parent die. Helping them is not a disgrace,” Rowen said.

According to the October 6 Wall Street Journal, Senator McCain would pay for his health care plan by cutting $1.3 trillion in Medicare and Medicaid over ten years. Kourpias said the McCain health care plan, which would lead many companies to eliminate retiree health benefits, would be “paid for on the backs of millions of senior citizens.” Under our increasingly privatized Medicare program, Kourpias added, “many seniors are paying more and getting less” for their medical bills and prescription drugs.

The 3.5 million member Alliance has paid staff and grassroots activists in key states and congressional districts. It is also running paid advertising to educate and mobilize retirees on Senator McCain’s record on Social Security.

To join thousands of other seniors across Iowa looking for the change we need, click here to join Iowa Seniors for Obama.

Email from Rep. Jim Leach: Why Obama?

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:51:18 EDT

Yesterday, former Iowa Republican Congressman Jim Leach sent out this email to Republicans for Obama members across the country. In it, he explains his support for Barack Obama and the many ways that everyone can get involved to make a difference. For more information on Iowa Republicans for Obama, click here.

Dear Zachary,

I am proud to have served thirty years as a Republican in Congress. But this past Spring, I came to the conclusion that the party I loved, respected, and supported had lost its moorings.

The tradition, pragmatism, and inspiration of leaders like Lincoln, Eisenhower, and Reagan have given way to partisan divisiveness.

Today, our country faces unprecedented problems -- an economic downturn as profound as any in living memory, growing instability in global security, and important questions about our energy future.

More of the same simply doesn't fit the times, and Republicans as well as Democrats understand that change is needed.

After decades in Washington -- witnessing the processes of government firsthand -- I have every confidence that Barack Obama is ready to bring that change.

Please join me in sharing that message by forwarding this email to your friends and asking them to visit www.BarackObama.com.

Or better yet, reach out to your entire community by writing a letter to the editor of your local paper.

We'll provide a list of local papers and some important background on the issues to help you get started. We'll even send the letters to the papers for you.

As Barack often says, this is a defining moment. Good citizens may disagree on issues and approaches to problem solving, but rarely have we had a greater need to pull together and seek unity in the face of division.

Barack has a broad, inclusive vision for the future of America. He is forward-looking in his proposals on alternative energy and education, and grounded in an approach to decision making that transcends party.

He has chosen foreign policy and economic advisers of the highest caliber. People like Retired General Anthony Zinni, former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, and President Clinton's Secretary of the Treasury Bob Rubin are all first-class professionals.

And he has shown his ability to withstand challenge. I often tell my students at Princeton to choose a candidate who most reflects what Lincoln termed "the better angels of our nature." Senator Obama has more reason than any Presidential candidate I have observed to lash out with anger. Yet he responds to irresponsible Swift Boat-style attacks with calm and steady leadership.

Barack Obama has inspired millions who want a new approach to politics and civic life -- Democrats and Republicans alike.

Please join me in welcoming everyone to this movement for change. Forward this message to your friends, or use the link below to write a letter to the editor in your local paper:

http://my.barackobama.com/gopforobamaletter

Thank you for making your voice heard.

Sincerely,

Jim

Former Representative Jim Leach
Iowa's 2nd District, 1977 - 2007

P.S. -- I gave a speech laying out some of the reasons so many traditional Republicans and independents support Senator Obama at the Democratic National Convention. You can watch it here:

http://my.barackobama.com/JLSpeech

Email from John Kerry: What will we say on November 5th?

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:30:16 EDT

Senator John Kerry just sent out an email to our Iowa supporters encouraging them to get involved in this final push before November 4th. He also stresses the importance of early voting, and we hope that you take just a second to find where you can vote early, and then go out to vote early for the change we need.

Dear Zachary,

Imagine this: It's election night. The polls have closed and the results are in. One candidate will be the 44th President of the United States.

If we don't step up our efforts right now in Iowa and reach out to as many voters as possible about Early Voting, the winner will be John McCain.

But I also know we have a great opportunity right in front of us to elect Barack Obama. If we all work together to tell our friends, family, and neighbors about Early Voting, we will win Iowa in 2008.

Don't wake up on November 5th wishing you'd done more.
Sign up now to connect with voters in your community.

With less than 23 days until Election Day, Republicans are kicking their attack machine into high gear, launching every dirty smear and guilt-by-association attack they can at Barack.

They're going to try and distract us from the important issues facing our country, but we can't let them succeed.

I'm doing everything I can this year to make sure this election doesn't slip away from us, but I can't do it alone -- and neither can Barack, or you, or anyone. But working together, we can reach enough voters to make that difference.

Iowa voters have a unique opportunity to build momentum for change by voting early, but it's up to us to reach out to them about Early Voting.

Make a difference today. Sign up to volunteer:

http://iowa.barackobama.com/WinorLoseIowa

Thank you,

John Kerry

P.S. -- You can take this campaign into your own hands with the Obama campaign's Neighbor to Neighbor tool. Reach out to fellow Iowans and make sure they know about Early Vote:

http://iowa.barackobama.com/n2n

Singer-Songwriter Carole King in Iowa for the next two days!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 12:41:17 EDT

On Monday, October 13th and Tuesday, October 14th, 2008, singer-songwriter Carole King will visit Iowa to encourage Iowans to vote now for change. King will travel throughout Central Iowa to talk about the issues facing Iowa’s families and the importance of voting early.

“We are thrilled to have Carole King visit Iowa to talk with Iowans about the challenges they face every day and Senator Obama’s commitment to standing up for Iowa’s families instead of big corporations,” said Jackie Norris, Iowa State Director for Barack Obama’s presidential campaign. “Voting in Iowa has begun and Iowans across the state have the opportunity to cast their vote for Barack Obama and help turn the page on the failed policies of the past eight years.”

Early voting in Iowa has begun and the Obama campaign has set up a voter information hotline, 877 - 420 - 8868, for Iowans to call to get information on how they can vote. Iowans can also visit www.voteforchange.com for more information.

Carol King is a Grammy Award winning singer-songwriter. She has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Check out this video of Carole King in Pennsylvania just a few days ago.

For a full list of the events we’ll be holding with Carole King, click here.

Iowa in the News: Deep into the rabbit hole (Farm & Fuel File)

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 13:27:37 EDT

Deep into the rabbit hole (Farm & Fuel File)

By Alan Guebert

When moderator Jim Lehrer asked presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama Sept. 29 what budget “priorities” each would “adjust” because of the pending $700 billion financial bailout, Obama, answering first, focused on federal programs he’d fix rather than fat he’d cut — energy, education, health care, rural broadband.

Lehrer then turned to McCain. The Arizonan looked straight into the television camera, then buried a knife between the shoulder blades of farmers.

“First of all,” he said, “I’d eliminate ethanol subsidies.”

There was no second of all: No mention of corporate tax evasion, defense contractor fraud or even the $400-million-per-week war in Iraq. McCain’s outspoken disdain for ethanol made it the only “priority” either candidate offered for “adjustment.”

(Obama, from the second largest corn-producing state in America, Illinois, long ago drank the ethanol Kool-Aid.)

Despite his well-known hatred of ethanol’s tax subsidies, it still took guts for McCain to slap farmers while 50 million wanting-to-be-green Americans watched.

Politically, however, it was foolish, especially after several farm groups had warned him repeatedly to hold his ethanol ire or face losing rural support.

We know you don’t favor ethanol, dozens of state Farm Bureau presidents told him prior to the Republican convention. Simply stay silent about it and farmers likely will overlook that oversight Nov. 4.

But the self-described maverick just couldn’t; he seemed to take pride in dropping the “e” bomb wherever he went.

“I begged his campaign to soften his stance,” says Fred Yoder, an Ohio farmer and the 2002/03 president of the National Corn Growers Association, ethanol’s biggest booster.

“But every time I’d ask, he’d dug his heels in deeper. I began to take it personally,” Yoder said.

Read the rest of the article here.

Iowa In the News: Iowa Treasurer Mike Fitzgerald

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 12:13:51 EDT

Fitzgerald: We’re going through a ‘crisis of confidence’

By MATT MILNER Courier staff writer

OTTUMWA — Iowa Treasurer Mike Fitzgerald wasn’t supposed to be quite this well positioned as a Democratic campaigner in the final weeks before election day.

Yes, the economy is always an issue. And, yes, you could expect a state treasurer to have some ideas about it. But no one expected massive 700-point plunges on Wall Street or daily doses of triple-digit drops.

Fitzgerald thinks Iowa’s growing ethanol and biofuels economy has helped the state withstand the first blows from the national economic crisis. But even those areas are feeling the pinch as lending dries up and businesses find it next to impossible to launch or expand. And Fitzgerald thinks that places a profound emphasis on the need for leadership that can inspire.

“This crisis we’re going through is more a crisis of confidence than anything else,” he said.

Getting through a crisis of confidence requires something more than an economic crunch or a financial slowdown. Style matters along with substance. People remember Franklin Roosevelt’s Depression-era “fireside chats,” even though he averaged fewer than three per year between 1933 and 1944. But Roosevelt used those occasions to project a reassuring presence.

All of this explains why Fitzgerald is spending time out on the road, campaigning for Barack Obama’s presidential bid. He says Obama has presented a consistent concern for the economy and has the ability to better work with Congress.

And Fitzgerald says Obama will be better positioned after November than he was the first time he tried to address U.S. lending regulations. Both Obama and John McCain introduced Senate bills to restrict the riskiest home loans. Neither bill went anywhere.

Fitzgerald sees a fundamental difference between Obama’s first attempt and one made as president. Presidents are de facto leaders of their party, and Obama would receive a mandate by winning the election. Both of those factors lend a proposal more weight than that given to a freshman senator’s suggestion.

Obama currently enjoys a solid lead in Iowa. Many experts don’t even consider the Iowa a swing state anymore. But there’s still three weeks worth of campaign left. And no one on either side is taking anything for granted.

That, after all, is why Fitzgerald was barnstorming southeast Iowa on Friday.

Vote Early for Change RV Tour Continues

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 11:21:25 EDT

The Early Vote for Change RV continued its tour of Iowa yesterday, with stops in Cresco, Davenport, and New Hampton. Along the way, the riders in the bus encouraged our supporters to Vote Early for Barack. Right now, all across Iowa, early voting locations are opening up so that you can vote for change right now.

It’s the easiest way to vote this year, and if you haven’t taken advantage of this opportunity yet, visit www.voteforchange.com and find the early voting location near you!

If you have already voted early, we need you to encourage your friends, family, or neighbors to visit www.voteforchange.com, use our new online neighbor to neighbor call tool, or visit one of our offices across the state--- we have over 40 open offices right now!

There is an extremely short amount of time before this election--- just 24 days--- and we need your help today! Call or come into your local office right now!

Vote Early for Change RV Tour

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 11:57:24 EDT

In the final 25 days before November 4th, everyday is Election Day. This gives us an amazing opportunity to bank votes for Barack and Joe every single day. That’s why our campaign will be working hard to talk with voters across the state to make sure they know about this unique privilege to vote early for change!

This week our Vote Early RV hit the road to stop off on campus’ and other locations across the state and we’ve already talked to hundreds of Iowans about the ways that they can spread the word and get more early votes for Barack.

One of the best ways to make a difference is to encourage more people to vote early—and it’s more effective if your friends, family, and neighbors hear from you. Encourage them to visit www.voteforchange.com – it’s a quick one-stop resource to find an early voting location near you.

If you have already encouraged people you know to visit www.voteforchange.com, you can start making calls to neighbors who you haven’t met yet with our new neighbor to neighbor tool. We provide the scripts and the names and numbers to call—you can even report your results online. Click here to start making calls right now—every single person you talk to can be another vote for Barack.

And of course… if you haven’t voted early for change yet--- FIND YOUR EARLY VOTE LOCATION RIGHT NOW!

First Newspaper Endorsement in Iowa: Storm Lake Times

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:39:45 EDT

Sept. 27, 2008

Obama for president
Enough is enough. The Republicans have had eight years to mess
up this country and it¹s time for the Democrats to put their hand to the
tiller. It¹s time to make history and elect Barack Obama of Illinois
president in November.
The Republicans had their chance. They controlled Congress and
the White House for six of the last eight years. They have run roughshod
over civil rights, confused the Bible with the Constitution, started a huge
war in Iraq based on a pack of lies served up by the Bush Administration,
run up the national debt to frightening heights and now propose to bail out
the corporate chieftains who put us in this financial mess.

We can¹t stand much more of this trip.
We need to turn the ship of state around and run it in a
different direction.

Trouble is, John McCain is using the same set of navigational
tools as George W. Bush. McCain built a career tearing down financial
regulation. He refused to accept a timetable for our troops to leave Iraq,
despite the Iraqi government demanding one. He opposes incentives for
renewable fuels production that could help wean us off our dependence on
oil. He wants to appoint a commission to study the financial mess we¹re in.
It¹s just more of the same old tired Republican map.

Obama presents a different face and tack. He will set out from
Day One to restore our damaged alliances around the world. He will redirect
our military attention from Iraq, which never presented an existential
threat to the United States, to the fight against Al Qaeda ‹ the outfit that
actually did attack us. He wants to restore regulation to the financial
markets, reduce the crippling national debt with a responsible tax policy,
and, most important, set out to actually reduce our dependence on oil with a
$150 billion renewable energy initiative.

Forget about the caricatures if you can ‹ Obama the radical and
McCain the doddering old man. Just look at the record: McCain has been
marching in lockstep with George W. Bush throughout most of the last eight
years. Obama opposed attacking Iraq from the very start, urging us to pay
attention instead to Afghanistan and Pakistan where Al Qaeda gains succor.
McCain voted against renewable energy incentives at every opportunity; Obama
has been a full-throated supporter of ethanol and wind energy who voted for
the most recent farm bill that promotes both.

McCain admits his hot temper and impulsive decision-making.
Obama is criticized for being too analytical, too cool, too cerebral. George
W. Bush and John McCain have proven how disastrous our damn-the-torpedoes
strategy has been. We¹re ready for a president who prefers to think before
lobbing.

We¹re for a president who wants to shut down the US torture
program, who wants to pay teachers more, who wants to put religious and
racial divisions off to the side. We¹re for a president who wants to support
a budding bio-energy industry that holds out hope for renewing rural Iowa.
We want a president who takes climate change seriously.

A note about the rest of the ticket: Obama¹s vice presidential nominee, Joe Biden of Delaware, is the foremost authority in the Senate on Middle Eastern affairs. McCain¹s nominee, Sarah Palin, couldn¹t describe what the Bush Doctrine is (that the United States reserves the right to
attack any country if we think that country poses an imminent threat to us). Either person is a heartbeat away from the presidency, and Biden clearly is better prepared.

Iowans should vote their self-interest and their national interest in November by casting their ballots for Barack Obama. It¹s time to set the ship of state on the right course again, holding out a beacon of liberty to the world and justice to the nation. Those are the stakes.

In the News: Governor Culver touts Obama's energy plan at TPI

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:23:33 EDT

Governor Culver touts Obama’s energy plan at TPI

Iowa Governor Chet Culver made a stop in Newton Wednesday. He was part of a roundtable discussion on alternate energy at TPI Composites and stumping for presidential candidate Barack Obama’s energy plan.

Culver also took the opportunity to highlight the importance of wind energy field to the creation of new jobs in Iowa.

“A recent study found that 20 percent of our energy needs could be met with wind energy,” Culver said. If that should come to pass, Culver said, the industry would create 50,000 permanent jobs in Iowa, as well as 150,000 building and construction jobs installing the towers.

Tom Filer of Clipper Windpower in Cedar Rapids, maker of wind turbines, said his company has been in business for three years in Iowa and is currently selling $1 billion in wind turbines per year.

“The wind industry is one of the few industries investing in rural America right now,” Filer said.

Culver said Iowa is finding ways to streamline the process of getting wind generating towers up and running.

“We want to be the Silicon Valley of the wind energy industry in the Midwest,” Culver said.

Iowa could become a leader in education and training in wind energy as well, Culver said.

Also part of the roundtable discussion were two students from Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville, currently enrolled in the Wind Energy and Turbine Technology program. The program is the first of its kind in Iowa and Culver said it is critical toward helping meet the growing demand for skilled technicians who can install, maintain and service modern wind turbines.

Culver said Obama’s energy plan was important for the state.

“Strong energy policy will only help us grow here in Iowa,” Culver said.

Governor Culver Unveils New Obama Wind Jobs Creation Package

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 16:12:19 EDT

Governor Outlined Iowa’s Wind Growth and Discuss Why Obama is Best Candidate to Strengthen Iowa’s Wind Industry

Des Moines – Today, Governor Chet Culver unveiled Senator Barack Obama’s plan to create new wind jobs across Iowa and across the nation. The Governor unveiled Obama’s plan during roundtable discussions at TPI Composites in Newton and Clipper Windpower in Cedar Rapids. Congressman David Loebsack held a roundtable discussion to discuss the new plan at the Fort Madison library near Siemens Power Generation.

In addition, the Governor was joined by Wind Energy and Turbine Technology students from the Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville, Iowa. The Wind Energy and Turbine Technology program is the first in the state of Iowa and is critical towards helping meet the growing demand for skilled technicians who can install, maintain and service modern wind turbines.

“The outcome of this election is very important to the future of Iowa’s wind industry,” said Governor Culver. “The wind industry has created more than 2,000 green-collar jobs in Iowa over the last two years, and Barack Obama has a detailed plan to further invest in wind energy and make wind energy a federal priority.”

Barack Obama’s Wind Jobs Creation Package includes:

Requiring 10 percent of electricity to come from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025. Barack Obama and Joe Biden will establish a 10 percent federal Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to require that 10 percent of electricity consumed in the U.S. is derived from clean, sustainable energy sources, like solar, wind and geothermal by 2012.

Extend the federal Wind Production Tax Credit (PTC) for 5 years. Extending the federal Wind Production Tax Credit for five years will encourage the industry to grow and increase production of renewable energy.

Invest in a Smart Grid. Barack Obama and Joe Biden will pursue a major investment in our national utility grid using smart metering, distributed storage and other advanced technologies to accommodate 21st century energy requirements: greatly improved electric grid reliability and security, a tremendous increase in renewable generation and greater customer choice and energy affordability.

Double Farm Bill funding for wind programs. The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) – expanded in the 2008 Farm Bill – built on the successful Renewable Energy/Energy Efficiency incentives for locally-owned wind power, biofuels, energy efficiency, solar energy and other clean energy projects like methane digesters. Demand for this program far exceeds available funding by about a three to one margin. To close that gap, Barack Obama and Joe Biden propose doubling this program to increase incentives for locally-owned wind power.

“According to recent statistics, Iowa is has once again moved up into third in the nation in wind energy production,” continued Governor Culver. “Iowa’s1400 towers produce over 1000 Megawatts of clean energy – which is equivalent to taking 700,000 cars and their emissions off the road. Barack Obama has a record of supporting Iowa’s wind industry, and he has a plan to strengthen it and create quality green-collar jobs throughout Iowa and the nation.”

The picture above is from a town hall event Barack held in Newton where he talked with local residents about their concerns, and also about topics like wind energy. Barack understands the important issues that affect Iowans, because he has held over 100 town hall meetings, and because he is a Senator from a mid-western state. As always, if you ever have a question, or if you would like to share a suggestion to our campaign, click here to get in touch.

New Healthcare TV Ad on Last Night's Debate: "Taketh"

Christopher Hass — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 09:20:31 EDT

Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released a new 30 second TV ad, “Taketh”, which highlights healthcare in the debate last night. In the ad, which features footage from the debate, Obama tells Americans the truth about John McCain’s healthcare plan, explaining that McCain pays for his tax credit by taxing your health care benefits, for the first time ever. "So what one hand giveth," Barack explained last night, "the other hand taketh away.”

"Taketh" will air across the country on national cable beginning today. You can make a contribution to help keep this ad on the air.

MEMO: The Town Hall Presidental Debate

Amanda Scott — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 09:54:02 EDT

Campaign spokesperson Bill Burton just send out this memo about tonight's debate...

TO:      Interested Parties

FR:      Bill Burton, National Press Secretary

RE:      The Town Hall Presidential Debate

DA:     October 7, 2008

"'When are you going to take the gloves off?' a John McCain supporter wanted to know this afternoon. 'How about Tuesday night?' McCain replied, grinning and looking ahead to his crucial second debate with Democrat Barack Obama." Washington Post, 10/2/08

John McCain is running out of time for a game-changing event.   In the latest sign of desperation, his campaign admitted just yesterday that if they "keep talking about the economic crisis, they're going to lose." It's our view that the American people are already worried about losing – their homes, their jobs and their health care – and it's up to the candidates at this debate to demonstrate who is best equipped to make sure that they can get ahead again.

In order to change the dynamics of this race, we anticipate that McCain will launch his nastiest attacks and continue to lie about Barack Obama's record and his vision to fundamentally change our country. We don't know if McCain will continue his refusal to even look at Obama on stage -- like in their first debate -- but we fully expect that his "turn the page" strategy to ignore the economy will be seen in full view for 90 minutes of character attacks against Barack Obama.

The fact is, McCain has erratically been all over the map in recent weeks, telling Americans that the fundamentals of the economy are strong only days before claiming to suspend his campaign and warning of another depression. John McCain just doesn't get it. The American people aren't interested in nasty, false attacks, and they're not interested in four more years of Bush policies. But that's all he's offering.

If all he does is attack Barack Obama, as he's said he'll do, it will be yet another colossal missed opportunity. In the face of those attacks, Barack Obama will continue to offer steady leadership, and talk about his plan to give real relief to the middle class and create good jobs here in America.

When it comes to sheer format, we enter today's debate the decided underdog. John McCain does extremely well in town hall settings. It's been his favorite format throughout his career and we think that he will of course do very well. See below for more reviews of John McCain's town hall performances.
From the Wall Street Journal:
The Town Hall Format Of The Debate Favors McCain. "McCain finally gets his long-demanded joint town-hall meeting with Democratic rival Sen. Barack Obama on Tuesday night in Nashville, Tenn. The Republican's performance in the second of three presidential debates -- the only one held in the format he tends to favor -- could help determine his ability to stay competitive in a race that seems to have moved against the Arizona senator over the past week."
From the Washington Post:
McCain Is Engaged In "Especially Serious Preparations" For The Town Hall Debate, Which His Former Campaign Manager Said Is "Probably Going To Be The Best Kind Of Forum He Is Going To Be In." "McCain appears to be engaged in especially serious preparations for Tuesday's debate, one of his last opportunities to change the trajectory of a race that may be slipping out of his control. He is certainly doing more formal preparation than he did before last month's debate in Mississippi. … 'McCain has done so many of these over the years that it's probably going to be the best kind of forum he is going to be in,' said his former campaign manager Terry Nelson. 'It's a great opportunity for him and the campaign.' … An open question is how aggressively McCain will take the fight to Obama on Tuesday night. One senior McCain adviser said Sunday that he expects both candidates to draw contrasts with each other on the economy, but he seemed to suggest McCain would stay away from personal attacks. This official said McCain is looking forward to the debate because he likes the freewheeling town hall format, and he expects it to focus on the candidates' economic plans."
From Reuters:
Fordham Professor Paul Levinson: "The Town Hall Debate Is McCain's Best Debate Format." "The town hall debate is McCain's best debate format," said Paul Levinson, a professor at Fordham University in New York. "Obama ... clearly is a much better speaker to a huge crowd or an interviewer (than he is at a debate)."

From the San Fransico Chronicle:

Communications Expert Ruth Sherman Said That McCain Has The Advantage In Town Hall Formats And Is Far More Comfortable And Experienced In What Can Be A Challenging Setting. "Communications expert and author Ruth Sherman said that, in normal times, McCain would have an advantage in Tuesday's town hall format- he's done more than 100 such meetings, and is far more comfortable and experienced in what can be a challenging setting.

VIDEO: Kal Penn in Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:41:32 EDT

About a month ago, Kal Penn, the actor, visited Iowa to talk with students at several campuses about the importance of early voting. Don't forget to visit www.voteforchange.com to find the early voting location near you, and then go out and cast your ballot for change right now! It's easy and the best way to support Barack and Joe.

In the video, Kal asks everyone to visit their local office. We have over 40 offices across the state, and we're working in them everyday-- so come on down and join us!

Obama-Biden Launches New Integrated Campaign in Battlegrounds Highlighting John McCain's Plan To Tax and Deregulate Health Care Instead Of Fix It

Christopher Hass — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 11:15:50 EDT

Today the Obama-Biden campaign announced an integrated effort to highlight the dangers of John McCain's healthcare proposals across the country. In addition to Senator Obama’s speech in North Carolina, the campaign released a fourth 30-second TV ad, "Coin", and is holding a conference call with Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius (former Kansas Insurance Commissioner), Ohio and Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioners.

Finally, the campaign is holding nearly two dozen events in conjunction with the DNC and Democratic state parties across nine battelground states to highlight John McCain’s plan to tax and deregulate health care instead of fix it.

You can read the memo detailing the five pitfalls of the McCain Health Plan.

You can also read how John McCain is putting the interests of insurance companies ahead of American families.

The ad, "Coin", begins airing on Monday in key states across the country.

Video: the importance of voting early

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 18:00:35 EDT

The Iowa Field Director, Tripp Wellde, just sent out this email talking about Early Voting in Iowa and included a video update on the state of the race here in Iowa.

Dear Zach,

Last week Early Voting kicked off here in Iowa. From now until November 4th, every day is Election Day because you can vote early in person or by mail.

Early Voting is a crucial way for many people who can't make it to the polls on November 4th to add their voices to the political process. But it's also a great way to show that you have made up your mind and are ready to cast your ballot for change.

I recorded a short video on my computer explaining the important role of Early Voting in our plan to mobilize Iowa voters and help bring change to America.

Watch the video now and find out how you can Early Voting, then encourage more people to take advantage of this opportunity:

In swing states like Iowa, a few votes can make all the difference, and we need to do everything we can to open up the political process to new voices.

With Iowans hit hard by the mortgage crisis and Bush-McCain economic policies, the stakes in this election couldn't be higher. 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.

Early Voting is fast, easy, and could make the difference in this election.

If you're ready to show your friends and family that you've made up your mind and you're ready for change now, I hope you'll Early Voting.

Check out the video and fill out some basic information today to make your voice heard:

http://ia.barackobama.com/IAvoteearlyvideo

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

Thanks for your support,

Tripp

Tripp Wellde
Iowa Field Director
Campaign for Change

Joe Biden Debate Watch Parties Across Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:58:23 EDT

Tonight all across Iowa, thousands of people will be watching the debate between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin. Our supporters will be holding watch parties across the state, and this is going to be a great opportunity to meet the other people organizing for change in your neighborhood.

Click here to find a debate watch party near you.

We are also going to be reaching out to undecided Iowa voters at our local offices by going on canvasses and making phone calls. If you haven’t already visited your local office, tonight is a great opportunity to meet some friendly faces and find out how you can make a difference by encouraging more people to Vote Early for Change.

The most important thing you can do for our campaign is to vote early. It helps us by allowing us to contact other supporters in the final days before the election to make sure they know where to vote, and to answer any questions they might have.

Stand up for Barack and Joe and the change we need by voting early! It’s easy—even if you aren’t registered or haven’t voted before.

Use the new Vote for Change tool to find where to cast your ballot right now!

Congressman Jim Leach to Hold “Republicans for Obama” Events in Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:19:16 EDT

Tomorrow, former Iowa Congressman Jim Leach will hold “Republicans for Obama” events in Ames, and West Des Moines. Congressman Leach will join other Republicans for Obama, as well as Democrats and undecided voters, to discuss the economic issues facing our country and why he believes Barack Obama is the leader we need to unite our country and bring about change.

Join us for one of the events tomorrow:

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2nd, 2008

11:30 AM
Ames, Iowa
“Republicans for Obama” Discussion with Congressman Jim Leach
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO RSVP

5:00 PM
“Republicans for Obama” House Party with Congressman Jim Leach
West Des Moines
CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO RSVP

These events are going to be a great opportunity to hear from one of the leaders of Iowa Republicans for Obama. If you didn’t get a chance to hear his initial endorsement, check out this video:

Congressman Leach will also be talking about the importance of voting early for change. In order to make the process even easier than it already is, we’ve set up a voter information hotline, 877 – IA-08VOTE, where you can find where to early. You can also www.voteforchange.com to look up your early voting location.

Do-it-yourself yard signs in Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:57:59 EDT

Guest blog by Soheil, Iowa New Media Intern.

Ben and Tricia wanted a yard sign people would notice, one that expressed urgency and couldn’t be ignored.

Unlike most, they made their own.

Located in Coralville, their “countdown to change” sign is the fruit of one month’s work.

“I started to think about why people don’t pay attention to signs,” Ben said. “I decided that it was because they are always the same, reasonably innocuous and thus easily ignored. So if we had a sign that changed—countdown of days—and included important talking points, then people would more likely take the message to heart.”

On one side, the sign reads “Every voice matters, every vote counts,” while the reverse writes “Gore ’00 & Kerry ’04. Remember? Then take action because…American can’t afford four more years!!!”

Ben, an engineer at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, updates his Election Day countdown each night with his hand-made tiles. He estimates that up to 1,000 cars drive by the sign each day, given his home’s proximity to Coralville’s Coral Ridge Mall.

Along with the sign, Ben and Tricia have volunteered for Barack and helped as caucus organizers. They continue to make phone calls and canvass for the campaign, all in their personal effort to help Iowa turn blue on November 4th.

“Tricia will tell you that one of her major accomplishments for the campaign was to get her lifelong Republican parents to caucus and vote for Obama this year,” Ben said. “I am still working on my parents.”

All across Iowa, there are people like Ben and Tricia working for the change we need. With just 35 days until the election, now is the time to join them and help us turn Iowa blue! Click here to join your neighborhood team.

Women for Obama Vote Early

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 16:03:52 EDT

For the past four days, we’ve been voting early in Iowa, and our supporters have been constantly talking about how easy it is! On the very first day of early voting, at 6:30 am, two of our best supporters, Judy and Cheryl, were first in line to early vote at the Polk County Auditor’s office. They really helped to highlight one of the best reasons to vote early—there aren’t any lines!

By voting early you can help us get more of our supporters out to vote on Election Day—and it’s easier than ever! Click here to find an early voting location near you!

All across Iowa, women continue to be the backbone of our campaign. Every night hundreds of women are hitting the phones and calling other women using our new Women to Women Online Call tool--- and we’ve seen tremendous results. Join us at your local office, or start making calls from home right now!

You can also write a letter to the editor using our online tool—we walk you through the process so it’s easy! Check out this great letter to the editor that was published this morning…

Obama will fight for women's rights
There are women working just as hard or even harder than men. Some of these women are single mothers, and I definitely think we should get equal opportunity and equal pay.
But Sen. John McCain and Gov. Sarah Palin oppose the proposed law to give women the right to sue to achieve equal pay.
In contrast, Sen. Barack Obama proposes programs to give hard-working women like myself the opportunity to go to college, join the work force and retire with the dignity and respect.
Although I believe strongly in a woman's right to choose, I respect why other women might be strongly against it. But I also believe that personal religious preferences should not interfere with the law. Not everyone practices the same religion.
As an independent minded young woman who believes in voting for the best candidate, I urge voters in Iowa to join me in voting for Obama for president.
Kiwanda Davis
Iowa City

Early Voting in Iowa: Perspective from FiveThirtyEight.com

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 14:28:45 EDT

Early Voting has started in Iowa and now it’s more important than ever to get involved at your local office, and find the early voting location near you. By voting early, you can help our campaign by encouraging your friends, family, and neighbors to do the same--- and you can also help us get out the vote on Election Day. The blog post below from FiveThirtyEight.com, explains in more detail the importance of our precinct captains, and getting everyone you know out to vote early.

Image from FiveThirtyEight.com

On the Road: Des Moines, Iowa
...When Jane first walked into an Obama field office during the pre-caucus period last September, she came to help address envelopes or generally help in what way she could. Slowly but surely, a skilled organizer named Caroline turned her into a precinct captain. Jane now manages 10 "block captains" who are responsible for their own slice of the precinct.

"I didn't know what a precinct captain was," said Jane. The first step was hosting a Barack Obama house party with her Republican husband Steve. Twenty of her neighbors, only about five of whom she'd met before, showed up. No donations were solicited, and the group met for an hour or so, asking questions of Jane, Steve, and a couple staff organizers. Though she was nervous at first and skeptical that such a party would have any effect, her organizer convinced her to give it a whirl.

The biggest impact was made, Jane said, by having each Obama supporter explain to the undecided but curious voters why they personally felt attracted to Obama's candidacy. Because Steve had been a longtime Republican and several Republicans were in the house, Jane talked about her excitement for a candidate willing to be fiscally responsible. There were no requests at the end of the party for commitments to vote for Obama, but Jane reported that when those houseguests attended an Obama foreign policy Q-and-A a week later, they came away completely sold.
…
Two or three times a day, Jane pipelines her newly-collected voter file info back to Obama's paid organizers in the West Des Moines office. In this way, the campaign stays on top of who's a supporter, who's undecided and why. Jane showed us her personalized notes to undecided voters who had requested information on a given issue. She and her block captains follow up with each voter in a personal way, and that's important, Jane says, because it's a following through of a promise: "We're representatives of Barack Obama, and when we say we'll get a voter information, we're giving our word."

…
Early voting began in Iowa yesterday morning, and we were there to capture the opening bell. Barack Obama's campaign has been putting an enormous emphasis on early voting and absentee voting by mail where applicable. The lower the burden on county clerks on Election Day, the shorter the lines, the fewer people who remain uncrossed off the GOTV lists for doorknocking and phonebanking reminders, then the greater efficiency with which campaigns can operate.

Get Involved Today-- Help Obama Supporters Vote Early!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 11:06:52 EDT

Obama supporters are working hard in Cresco, organizing in their neighborhood and working to get votes for Barack! They are not only making a huge difference in this campaign, but clearly they are having fun doing it!

This weekend is one of the most important before Election Day, because thousands of people across Iowa have just received their vote by mail ballots and they are literally holding votes for Barack. We need your help to make sure they get their ballots cast for the change we need

The best way to get involved this weekend is to head into your local office. Click here to find an office near you, then come on by sometime this weekend—we’ll be going out for canvasses all day today, and tomorrow!

If you can’t make it to a local office, consider making a few phone calls to our supporters to encourage them to early vote using our Neighbor to Neighbor online call tool. We’ll provide talking points, and phone numbers. It’s easy!

We are going to need all of our best supporters to vote early so that they can help get more people to vote early, and also help our supporters get out to vote on Election Day. In 2004, George Bush won Iowa by 10,000 Votes. We can’t let that happen again.

Use our new lookup tool below to find where you can vote early--- then stop by your local office to help get more people out to vote early!

Clinton County Votes Early for Change

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 10:59:38 EDT

Yesterday morning, about a dozen Clinton County Democrats met for an early breakfast, and then went together to vote early! With just 39 days before the election, it’s never been more important to encourage your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers to support the change we need—and there has never been an easier way than by voting early!

There are two ways you can vote early--- by mail, or in person. Both processes are simple and make voting for Barack and Joe easier than ever before. Click here to visit the Iowa Early Vote Headquarters to look up an early voting location near you, or take the three easy steps to voting by mail!

Another great way to get the word out about early voting is to write a letter to the editor. Click here to get started using our online tool and help us make sure that everyone knows about Early Voting in Iowa!

You can vote right now, today, at locations all across the state. Click here to find where to cast your ballot right now!

Vote For Change-- Now It's Easier to Vote Early!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:39:19 EDT

All across Iowa, our supporters are voting early for change-- right now! It's easy and the best way you can support Barack and Joe to help them bring the change we need.

There are two ways to vote early, by mail or in person. If you would like to vote early by mail, click here to visit our Iowa Early Vote Headquarters-- voting by mail is as easy as 1,2,3!

If you want to vote early in person-- from today through Election Day, use our new tool, "Vote for Change." It helps you find where to vote early, and makes voting even easier! Just start filling out the form below to find where you can vote early!

You Can Vote RIGHT NOW for Barack in Iowa!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 10:23:09 EDT

You can Vote TODAY for Barack--- and as you can see from the picture above—dozens of our supporters were already out this morning voting for change!

From now until the Election Day, you can vote early by mail or in person. It’s Easy!

This is the best way to make your voice heard, and we’ve simplified the process with our new early vote election headquarters.

Here are the two easy options to vote early:

1. Vote Early by Mail. Click here to visit the Early Vote Headquarters and download your Vote by Mail request. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!
2. Vote Early in Person. Visit www.voteforchange.com to find an Early Voting location near you. You can vote early from tomorrow, September 25th, through Election Day. It’s Easy!

The time is now to stand up for the change we need. Vote early for Barack and encourage your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers to do the same.

If you ever have any questions, or if you need to find where you can vote early in person—call our special early vote election hotline!

877-IA-08VOTE

CALL NOW-- then Vote Early for Change!

Vote Early for Change Starting TOMORROW!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:19:23 EDT

Here in Iowa, tomorrow is the start of an amazing opportunity. From now until November 4th, you can vote early in person or by mail. Even if you aren’t registered, or have never voted before—it’s easy!

Voting early is the best way you can help Barack and Joe win Iowa, and there has never been an easier way to make your voice heard.

There are two ways to vote early in Iowa:

1. Vote Early by Mail. Click here to visit the Early Vote Headquarters and download your Vote by Mail request. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!
2. Vote Early in Person. Visit www.voteforchange.com to find an Early Voting location near you. You can vote early from tomorrow, September 25th, through Election Day. It’s Easy!

Over the next 41 days, we are going to need everyone to get involved and help us grow our Campaign for Change. After you vote early, we need you to help spread the word. Talk with your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers about the importance of early voting here in Iowa.

To make it easier to spread the word, we’ve launched our new online “Neighbor to Neighbor” call tool. We will provide a script, we will give you the numbers, and you can make the calls from home—right now! Click here to start making calls!

The only way we are going to be successful here in Iowa is by working together, and relying upon each other to help organize our neighborhoods. Everyone has a role to play, and even if you aren’t able to make phone calls, or knock on doors, your Obama Organizing Team will still need your help with dozens of other tasks. Click here to join them.

Someone that Barack relies upon on a regular basis, and who he refers to as his “rock” is Michelle. They are clearly a team, and after you watch the video below of Michelle’s speech at the Democratic National Convention, you will understand exactly what he means!

Now is the time to change Washington with Barack and Joe, and we can’t do it without you. Click here to vote early, and help bring us the change we need.

Vote Early and get your friends, family, and neighbors to join you!

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:30:49 EDT

There are just two more days until Early Voting stats here in Iowa, and from this Thursday through November 4th, everyday is Election Day! Check out our Early Voting Headquarters, by clicking here, and get ready to vote for change in two days!

This is also an important time to be reaching out to your friends, family, and neighbors to talk about Barack and our campaign for change. Use our new neighbor to neighbors call tool and start making calls from home right away-- don't forget to let them know about early voting!

Throughout the upcoming weeks, we are not only going to be working hard to ensure that all of our supporters are able to vote early, but we are also going to be pushing back on false and misleading attacks on Barack's record. Check out the short clipping below from FactCheck.org, a non-partisan truth-monitoring organization, which summarizes the NRA’s deceptive campaign against Barack:

A National Rifle Association advertising campaign distorts Obama's position on gun control beyond recognition.

The NRA is circulating printed material and running TV ads making unsubstantiated claims that Obama plans to ban use of firearms for home defense, ban possession and manufacture of handguns, close 90 percent of gun shops and ban hunting ammunition.

Much of what the NRA passes off as Obama's "10 Point Plan to 'Change' the Second Amendment" is actually contrary to what he has said throughout his campaign: that he "respects the constitutional rights of Americans to bear arms" and "will protect the rights of hunters and other law-abiding Americans to purchase, own, transport, and use guns."

The NRA, however, simply dismisses Obama's stated position as "rhetoric" and substitutes its own interpretation of his record as a secret "plan." Said an NRA spokesman: "We believe our facts."

Perhaps so, but believing something doesn't make it so. And we find the NRA has cherry-picked, twisted and misrepresented Obama's record to come up with a bogus "plan."

FactCheck.org provides full details of each distortion.

Valley High Students for Change

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 16:23:17 EDT

Yesterday in Des Moines, Valley High students kicked off their weekly canvass to local neighborhoods to encourage more young people to vote—and encourage all of our supporters to vote early. For the first 15 minutes before the kickoff, the student leaders talked with a few of the first-timers about what to expect at the doors and shared some of fun things they have seen over the last few weeks. Everyone was laughing, having a good time, and totally fired up to get out and start knocking on doors--- then the canvass officially kicked off with a chant of “4 on 3”—and if you aren’t familiar, that’s “1,2,3… 4!”

As they were leaving, I got a chance to talk to a few of the students about why they were getting involved in this election.

“This is my first canvass, and my first election to get involved. And even though I won’t be able to vote, I feel like everyone should be doing their part. I’m also here because I’m pro choice, and I was encouraged because my sister in law really likes Joe Biden”
Stacy

“My parents are really political and I’ve been to the Harkin Steak Fry several times—and that has always been lots of fun… This is the first election that I’ll be able to vote in, but I was able to caucus for Barack—which really meant a lot to me…I feel like the world needs a new impression of America, and I know that Barack can do that, and he can also show the world our values and morals more so than any other candidate.”
Helen

“Barack is compelling new people to get involved, and he is really the product of the way that we see the world. We want to see more involvement, more diplomacy… He changes the rhetoric coming out of Washington, but it’s so much more than that because it’s getting more and more of us involved. We want more discussion-- more voices in the discussion.”
Joe

“I’ve been making phone calls and canvassing for awhile now, because I really want to see this happen. Barack has changed the paradigm of campaigning by getting more people involved—young people too. He supports civil rights and he understands how America is viewed across the world, which is the first step to bringing real change.
Abhishek

Students across Iowa are becoming leaders at their school. Click here to join us.

VIDEO: Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and Iowa Women for Obama

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 11:03:53 EDT

Guest blog by Soheil, Iowa New Media Intern.

This past Tuesday, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius held a town hall meeting at the Iowa City Public Library to discuss why Barack Obama is the right choice in this election.

In part with Women for Obama Week, I put together a video of the event, featuring Governor Sebelius and a number of Barack’s female supporters. You can watch it here:

Senator Obama is a strong advocate for issues like pay equity and health care for all Americans. To cap off this week’s events, we’re asking you to join the Iowa chapter of Women for Obama here.

As members, you can receive updates on upcoming events, host and attend house parties in your community, meet other Women for Obama members, and sign up to volunteer for the campaign.

In Barack’s words, “Women have always made the difference in every election, and this year, your voice, your hope will be the deciding factors in forging a new future for America.”

Help us forge that future. Join today to help turn Iowa blue in 2008.

Join Iowa Women for Obama

Women's Week of Action: Valerie Jarrett

Amanda Scott — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:40:47 EDT

Valerie Jarrett has known Michelle and Barack since she hired Michelle to work for Chicago Mayor Richard Daley in 1991. For the past 17 years, she has been a close family friend to the Obamas and is currently serving as an aide and confidante to Barack on the campaign trail.

Valerie sat down with the campaign earlier this week to share her insights on Barack and what an Obama Administration would mean for American women. She spoke about how he has committed his life to community service, even though his career could have taken a very different path. Having watched his time spent as a community organizer and his career in the Illinois State Senate, she knows firsthand that Barack has the faith and courage to fight for the change we need.

Valerie is particularly passionate about Barack's track record on women's issues. She explains that Barack has fought for equal pay, a woman's right to choose, healthcare for families and daycare for children.

Watch this video of Valerie sharing her thoughts and personal stories on Barack.

In the News / Your Chance to Meet Barack or Joe

Zachary Scott Edwards — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:43:00 EDT

We wanted to remind everyone that there are three days left in the Iowa Call Challenge! Start making calls right now and get a chance to meet Barack or Joe-- the top five callers through Saturday will get this amazing opportunity!

Check out the clips from this morning's newspapers-- and then start making calls right now!

Culver campaigns for Obama in Davenport
Iowa Gov. Chet Culver zeroed in Wednesday on John McCain’s opposition to ethanol subsidies as part of a critique of the Republican presidential candidate’s economic agenda at a campaign stop in Davenport.

Culver, a Democrat, said Iowa’s economy is outperforming the country’s in large part because the federal government has stimulated growth in the biofuels industry.

“The only reason our bio-economy is booming, certainly one of the reasons, is because of that very progressive federal policy,” he said.

The governor was joined by two aides to Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama’s campaign at a forum sponsored by DavenportOne.

“This is a choice for what is good for Iowa,” Culver said, also criticizing the Republican presidential nominee for opposing the 2007 Farm Bill.

Obama aides also tried to drill home the idea the Democrat’s tax plan would help middle income families more than McCain’s.

Obama’s plan would cut taxes for families making between about $37,000 and $66,000 by $1,042, according to the non-partisan Tax Policy Center. McCain’s plan would cut taxes for that family by $319, the center says.
Warnstadt: McCain doesn't support wind, ethanol
State Sen. Steve Warnstadt, D-Sioux City, wants Iowans to imagine what the state would be like without wind farms and ethanol plants.

Warnstadt said that's what Iowa would be like if Sen. John McCain, the Republican presidential candidate, had gotten his way during the 26 years he served in the U.S. Congress.

"He (McCain) has consistently opposed any ethanol incentives and mandates, which have been responsible for 47,000 Iowa jobs in the ethanol industry," Warnstadt said during a Wednesday press conference ahead of a McCain visit to Iowa today. "He has voted against the renewable tax credits, which the utility industry says is critical for them to be able to put up wind turbines. So, frankly his voting record is one that has been very much against renewables, both ethanol and wind. I think that's bad for Iowa and I think that's bad for the country."

He said it's critical to provide people with the additional money to help pay for gas, but at the same time take a look at energy options that are available to us right now.

"Agriculture could suffer with McCain as president"

Amanda Scott — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 13:12:31 EDT

Neil Harl, a emeritus professor at Iowa State University, recently wrote an op-ed in the Des MoinesRegister on the impact that a McCain presidency would have on agriculture.

For those of us who care deeply about the long-term health of the agricultural sector (and the resources that make that sector so productive), it is deeply disturbing to read and hear Sen. John McCain's comments about the sector and about the 2008 farm bill.

As the senator told a group in Wisconsin recently, "the farm bill, $300 billion, is something America simply cannot afford." That statement is fully consistent with his opposition to farm bills over the years.

My concern is not so much about his broadside against farm subsidies - I have criticized direct payments when farm prices are up - but the fact that he apparently does not understand that a huge part of the $300 billion goes for food assistance, nutrition, conservation, trade, environmental protection, country-of-origin labeling of food products and meat inspection, to mention some of the programs supported by the legislation. With his consistent opposition to recent farm bills, the senator apparently has accepted at face value the critical comments from some lobbyists and others, apparently without learning just how important the farm bill is to the health and well-being of our citizens.

But the more serious concern is that his widely publicized remarks indicate a deep-seated antagonism toward the agricultural sector itself. Those remarks are an echo of the sorry refrain I heard over and over in 1984 and 1985 during the early stages of the farm debt crisis. When it was obvious to almost everyone in the country, except the administration in Washington, that agriculture faced a huge adjustment in the 1980s, an effort was made to persuade key administration officials that federal involvement was needed. I made 13 trips to Washington in 1984 bearing that message. The uniform response: We don't believe there is a problem. And if there is, it's not the business of the federal government to get involved.

The effort culminated with a highly publicized meeting in the Roosevelt Room at the White House with David Stockman, the chief gatekeeper to the Reagan administration on Jan. 11, 1985. That 40-minute meeting erupted in a shouting match between Iowa's then governor, Terry Branstad, and Stockman and a royal put-down of John Block, then secretary of agriculture, in response to Block's comment that something needed to be done.

Block was told by an obviously angry Stockman that "this government doesn't believe in that." That session was followed, weeks later, by the president's veto of the badly needed farm-credit bill and preceded by his statement to the Gridiron Dinner that "we should keep the grain and export the farmers."

McCain's outbursts are far more ominous than anything coming from the Reagan White House. But that experience illustrates just how effective a few ideologues can be in blocking assistance to a sector in genuine difficulty. I shudder to think what the reception would be, years from now, when the agricultural sector is once again in economic difficulty, which is likely to happen, and someone mounts a bipartisan effort to communicate with a White House that does not believe in farm legislation.

The agricultural sector does not expect favoritism in the new administration but should be able to count on even-handed treatment in the White House and should not have to beat down rhetoric designed to please a particular segment of the political spectrum. Agriculture is not well-served by a president who proclaims at every turn that the many programs in the farm bills, all with strong bipartisan support, are unworthy.

Have You Voted for Barack yet?

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 11:18:35 EDT

Yesterday evening, our campaign sent out an email reminding everyone about early voting in Iowa. From September 25th through Election Day, you can vote early-- even if you aren't registered or have never voted before. It's easy! And now that our Early Vote hotline is set up, we can answer any questions you might have! Just call 877-IA-08VOTE.

And don't forget about the Iowa Call Challenge! The top 5 callers in Iowa using our new Neighbor to Neighbor online call tool will get a chance to meet either Barack or Joe. The challenge ends Saturday-- but there is still plenty of time! Start making calls right now!

Dear Zach --

Did you know you don't have to wait until November 4th to vote for Barack?

Right now supporters like you are stepping up to show their support for Barack and Democrats up and down the ballot by voting early.

In Iowa, you can vote early by mail right now, or vote early in person starting on September 25th. It's fast, easy, and it could make the difference in this election.

Make your voice heard right away. Download your ballot request now and vote early for Barack.

Voting early is a great way for you to help our campaign take one step closer to victory.

Across Iowa, supporters like you are working together to grow this Campaign for Change and spread Barack's message. We know Iowan families can't afford another four or eight years of Bush-McCain policies.

We only have seven weeks until November 4th, but starting September 25th, every day is Election Day in Iowa.

Why wait? Request your vote by mail ballot online, right now:

http://iowa.barackobama.com/IAvoteearly

We can't do this without you.

Thanks,

Tripp

Tripp Wellde
Iowa Field Director
Campaign for Change

P.S. -- The success of this movement for change depends on supporters like you contributing more than your votes. Take the Iowa Call Challenge, reach out to voters using our new Neighbor to Neighbor tool, and have an opportunity to meet Barack or Joe!

Women for Obama Events Across Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:46:17 EDT

All this week, Women for Obama members in Iowa will be joining together for special events with elected officials, influential leaders, and other supporters to talk about the upcoming election and the important work that must be done to ensure that Democrats are elected up and down the ballot come November. Today in Iowa City, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius held several events to talk about the importance of this election, and how critical it is that Barack becomes our next president.

We ‘d love to have you at one of our upcoming events this week--- click here to find one of these special events near you. Attached below is an article discussing Gov. Sebelius’ stop at the Iowa City Public Library, but if you haven’t had a chance to hear a speech from the Governor, here is a video from one of her events a few weeks ago in Des Moines:

Kansas governor touts Obama's credentials
Shawn Gude - The Daily Iowan

Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius stopped by the Iowa City Public Library this morning with one topic in mind: Barack Obama.

Speaking to a crowd of over 200, Sebelius linked Republican challenger John McCain's policies with President George W. Bush's unpopularity, while stressing the policy differences between the Illinois senator and McCain.

"If, indeed, you feel like you are - as Ronald Reagan said - better off personally than you were eight years ago, that your family is better off than it was eight years ago, your state and country is better off than eight years ago - then John McCain is your guy," Sebelius said to the cheering crowd.

"But if we truly believe we need to change direction in this country and embrace a new philosophy … then we need a change," she said. "We don't need somebody who just talks about change. We need a change in direction and a change in policy."

Sebelius touted Obama's tax, healthcare, and economic policies as necessary changes, emphasizing the need for a "fair and progressive tax policy," one that aids the middle class, rather than the richest one percent of Americans.

The Kansas governor also dismissed the notion that McCain is a party-bucker, citing that the Arizona senator would continue many of Bush's policies.

"John McCain the maverick has now become the sidekick," Sebelius said.

VIDEO: Howard Dean at the University of Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:40:01 EDT

Here is a guest blog by Soheil, Iowa New Media Intern

Last week at the University of Iowa campus, Howard Dean gave a rousing speech to scores of young people asking everyone to volunteer and help elect Senator Obama as our next president.

Check out this video of the event:

There are less than two weeks before early voting begins here in Iowa on September 25th. From then on, every day until November 4th will be Election Day.

We are going to need college and high school students across the state to help get out the vote and join our campaign. This is going to be a great way to get involved in a presidential campaign and meet hundreds of other young leaders who are making a difference.

In Barack’s own words, “Change doesn’t come from the top down; it comes from the bottom up.”

No matter how much time you have to offer, there’s a place for you in this campaign. You can sign up for an internship with your nearest campaign office here: http://ia.barackobama.com/iaintern.

This is our time. Help us take charge of change.

Jill Biden Travels Across Iowa

Zachary Scott Edwards — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 15:26:03 EDT

This weekend here in Iowa, Dr. Jill Biden traveled across the state to meet with hundreds of local residents to talk about Barack and Joe and the important work that local activists must do in these upcoming weeks.

During a stop in Mason City, Dr. Biden joined with Christine Vilsack and a dozen lifelong teachers to discuss education policy and our need to strengthen communities by investing in education. As an educator for most of her adult life, Dr. Biden is extremely comfortable talking about education, and shared an all-too common problem.

During one of her classes, Dr. Biden had a student who was smart, studious, and motivated, yet didn’t have enough money to purchase books for the semester. The teachers in the discussion ignited a spirited discussion about the lack of funding for things like books, and the importance of making education one of our top priorities.

One of the teachers also brought up the fact that Barack’s very first bill he introduced in the Senate sought to increase the maximum Pell Grant award to $5,100, and stressed that it was one of the reasons she was supporting our campaign for change.

After leaving the education discussion, Dr. Biden stopped by several organizing meetings to fire up local supporters and then stopped at a local coffee house, veterans home, and fire station. It seemed like everywhere she stopped, or even when just walking from an event, someone knew her. That was probably because it was somewhat of a homecoming, because Jill and her sister Valerie, who was also on the trip, used to live in Waterloo!

One of the most inspirational moments of the trip was at Jill’s final event in Dubuque, where hundreds of Joe’s supporters from the caucuses came out to show their support. After her speech the event seemed to turn into a big family reunion. Hugs and friendly conversations not only followed Dr. Biden, but supporters who hadn’t seen each other since the caucuses were also getting back in touch.

Check out the video of the event below--- Jill gives a great perspective on how Joe decided to accept the nomination for vice president.

At nearly every event, Jill stressed that there are only few weeks left before the election, and there couldn’t be a better time to get involved. We need you to join us, and thousands of supporters across the state, to help organize for Barack and Joe.

Take the Iowa Call Challenge and meet Barack or Joe

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 23:28:44 EDT

Our Campaign here in Iowa just sent out the news--- you have a chance to meet Barack or Joe! All you need to do is be one of the top five callers in Iowa using the Neighbor to Neighbor call tool! Check out the email for more details...

Dear Zach --

We want you to be the first to know -- the Obama campaign is sending Barack Obama or Joe Biden to Iowa in the next couple of weeks, and you have the opportunity to meet one of them.

The catch? Help us grow this movement for change by taking the Iowa Call Challenge and talking to undecided voters across the state. The top five people who complete the most calls between Saturday, September 13th, and Saturday, September 20th, will have the opportunity to meet Barack or Joe.

And with our Neighbor to Neighbor online phone call tool, you can do it all from home. You'll get a list of potential supporters, suggested topics to talk about, and an easy way to report back on who you've contacted.

Take the Iowa Call Challenge now and get the opportunity to meet Barack or Joe.

With less than eight weeks left until Election Day, November 4th, now is the time to start talking to fellow Iowans about this movement for change.

No previous experience is required. All you need is a passion for this campaign and a hunger for change. Talking to fellow Iowans, person to person, is the best way to spread this message and build toward victory in November.

Take the Iowa Call Challenge and have the opportunity to meet a leader of this movement:

http://ia.barackobama.com/n2n

Thanks,

Tripp

Tripp Wellde
Iowa Field Director
Campaign for Change

Editorial from Jim Leach

Zachary Scott Edwards — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:51:31 EDT

Check out the editorial that was written by Jim Leach and published in this morning's Omaha World Herald. To join other Iowa Republicans for Obama, click here.

Obama is best to aid Midlands interests
BY JAMES LEACH
Omaha World-Herald Editorial Friday, September, 12, 2008
The writer represented an Iowa district in the U.S. House of Representatives for 30 years and formerly chaired the House Banking an d Financial Services Committee. He is a visiting professor at the Woodrow Wilson School of Princeton (N.J.) University
The conventions are over. Both political parties have nominated individuals with compelling life stories. Both understand that something is out of kilter in Washington and that America’s standing in the world has diminished politically and economically over the last decade. Each is competing for the mantle of change.
As one who served 30 years as a Republican in Congress and, prior to that, 5 years in the Executive branch, principally as a Foreign Service Officer, I have for the first time decided to endorse a Democratic candidate for President.
I have the deepest respect for the principles and heritage of the Republican Party. But the question for many traditional Republicans is whether today’s party resembles that of our parents, of the views of leaders like Robert Taft or Dwight Eisenhower, of Barry Goldwater or Nelson Rockefeller, let alone of the progressive tradition of our great-great grandparents, the abolitionists and suffragettes.
The party that once emphasized individual rights has gravitated in recent years toward regulating values. The party of military responsibility has taken us to war with a country that did not attack us. The party historically anchored in fiscal restraint has nearly doubled the national debt, squandering our precious resources in an undisciplined and unprecedented effort to finance a war with tax cuts.
In 25 years in Congress, John McCain has demonstrated what he validly describes as a maverick personality, but on the key issues of the day – the war in Iraq, tax accommodation for the big and powerful, social policy – both his policies and personal approach to decision-making represent unflinching continuity with the current Administration.
...Click here to read more...

Two New Ads: 'Real Change' and 'Still'

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:38:08 EDT

Today, the Obama campaign released two new 30-second TV ads, Real Change, which details what "change" is to Senator Obama and Still which details why John McCain would just be another out of touch president offering more of the same.

Watch Real Change...

Watch Still...

Please make a donation now and help share these ads with voters around the country.

Statement of Senator Barack Obama on the Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks

Christopher Hass — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 01:00:01 EDT

In remembrance of the seventh anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Senator Obama released the following statement:

Today, we honor the memory of the lives that were lost on September 11, 2001, and grieve with the families and friends who lost someone they loved in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. We will never forget those who died. We will always remember the extraordinary efforts of our firefighters, police and emergency responders, and those who sacrificed their own lives on Flight 93 to protect their fellow Americans. And we give thanks for the Americans defending us every day in our communities at home, and in our military abroad.

On 9/11, Americans across our great country came together to stand with the families of the victims, to donate blood, to give to charity, and to say a prayer for our country. Let us renew that spirit of service and that sense of common purpose. Let us remember that the terrorists responsible for 9/11 are still at large, and must be brought to justice. Let us resolve to defeat terrorist networks, defend the American homeland, stand up for the enduring American values that we cherish, and seek a new birth of freedom at home and around the world.

Barack Obama Reaffirms Commitment to Renewable Fuels Standard

Zachary Scott Edwards — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 18:05:44 EDT

Des Moines, Iowa – Yesterday, during a conference call with the National Farmers Union, Senator Barack Obama reaffirmed his commitment to Iowa biofuels and the Renewable Fuels Standard.

According to Senator Obama: “I know one of the key messages you are bringing to Washington this week with you is the importance of investing in renewable energies, that's a priority we share. And I've long supported the renewable fuel standard. I am strongly committed to advanced biofuels as a key component to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. And at the same time, and many of you know, investing in renewable fuels also injects millions of dollars of capital in the rural economy and helps farmers with profitability, it creates jobs. So this is something that I am going to keep on fighting for as President.”

Senator John McCain continues to oppose the Renewable Fuels Standard and ethanol. In fact, McCain’s energy plan doesn’t even include renewable fuels. The biofuels industry has helped create 96,000 jobs throughout Iowa.

Barack understands the importance of, and has been a consistent supporter of biofuels. Read more about his plan to support biofuels in this fact sheet, or watch this short video made about two years ago during a morning show where Barack talks about energy policy, climate change, and the importance of supporting alternate forms of energy like biofuels: