OR HQ Blog

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Thank You, Oregon

Christopher Hass — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:49:55 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 . . .

A Message from Michelle Obama

John Griswold — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 11:30:38 EST

Friends,

Today is Election Day.

The opportunity to set our country on a new path has never felt more real than it does right now.

The polls are open in most places, and people are already making their voices heard for change.

There's just one thing left to do -- vote and make sure everyone you know votes, too.

You can find or verify your ballot drop location by looking up your most recent registration address at VoteForChange.com.

Go vote today, and make sure you take your friends and family with you.

This is the day when we have to commit to doing everything we can. We can't afford not to -- for our families, our communities, and our future.

Once you vote, you can do more than just wait as the returns come in.

You can help get every last vote for Barack by volunteering in your community or making calls from home. Help put us over the top today:

http://my.barackobama.com/november

It's not too late to knock on doors, make calls, and make sure that every one of our supporters gets to the polls today.

Change is within our reach. We're counting on you to get us there today.

Thank you for everything you're doing,

Michelle

P.S. -- If anyone you know hasn't yet made up their mind, please invite them to learn more about Barack's positions on important issues:

http://www.barackobama.com/issues/

Greg Oden, Channing Frye, and Jerryd Bayless Know the Importance of Voting

John Griswold — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 18:35:07 EDT

NBA players Greg Oden, Channing Frye, and Jerryd Bayless have been involved in efforts to get Barack Obama elected, whether by speaking to crowds about the importance of registering to vote and then casting a ballot for Barack Obama, or by voicing their support for Senator Obama, and finally by sharing the reasons why they believe he represents the leadership America needs in the White House.

The tall trio spoke to a crowd at Portland State University about the importance of voicing one's opinion through the voting process. The best way to make your voice heard in America is by voting. Oregonians have until Tuesday, November 4th at 8pm to have their voice heard.

Vote For Change is a tool that will show you the nearest official ballot drop box. Click here to find out where you can drop your ballot off, vote now, and make sure to return your ballot by Tuesday at 8pm.

Festive Obama Supporters

John Griswold — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 17:56:27 EDT

A group of Obama supporters shared their enthusiasm for change in front of the Campaign for Change headquarters before they went out Trick-or-Treating on Halloween afternoon in Portland.

Find your local Campaign for Change office here.

NE Portland Volunteers Are Getting Out the Vote

John Griswold — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 16:07:18 EDT

The NE Portland Campaign for Change office was buzzing Friday with supporters hungry for change. Supporters made phone calls, assembled and walked canvass packets, and collected completed ballots as part of the statewide Get Out the Vote (GOTV) effort.

Volunteers have been working hard these past weeks across Oregon to make sure that every supporter's vote for Barack Obama is cast.

There are less than one hundred hours left to make a difference in this election. Will you help us in this final push to election day? Sign up here for a GOTV shift, and help bring the change we need to Oregon.

Gov. Howard Dean Stumps for Obama in Oregon

John Griswold — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:29:13 EDT

SUNDAY, GOV. HOWARD DEAN, CHAIRMAN OF THE DNC, TO GET-OUT-THE-VOTE FOR OBAMA, MERKLEY, AND OREGON DEMOCRATS

Dean, Wyden, Merkley and Oregon Democrats Headline GOTV Events in Portland and Eugene

PORTLAND, OR - This Sunday, Gov. Howard Dean, Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, will join Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley, Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate, and other statewide Democratic candidates in Oregon to get out the vote for Barack Obama, Jeff Merkley, and Democrats across Oregon.

With only two days left to vote in this crucial election, Gov. Dean, Sen. Wyden, Jeff Merkley, Kate Brown, Ben Westlund, John Kroger, and Brad Avakian will kick-off get-out-the-vote mobilization events in Portland and Eugene.

Sunday, November 2nd

4:30 PM - PORTLAND
Campaign for Change Headquarters
3016 SE Division St.
Portland, OR 97202

7:30 PM - EUGENE
Campaign for Change Eugene Office
150 W Broadway
Eugene, OR 97401

Contact your local Campaign for Change Office for more information.

Canvassing Makes A Difference in Oregon

John Griswold — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:33:40 EDT

Did you know that canvassing is the most effective way to get out the vote? Canvassing, which is basically going door to door in your neighborhood and representing Barack Obama, is the most useful tool we have to influence the Presidential Election. Here in Oregon, the whole canvassing process takes only a few hours, but it is immensely helpful.

First time canvassers receive training and support from Campaign for Change organizers, a targeted list of names of people who are likely to support Barack Obama, and are sent out to knock doors. Once canvassers contact a voter on their list, they ask the voter if they are planning on voting for Obama and Democrats down the ticket, and offer to take the voter's completed ballot to a ballot drop box. Nothing could be simpler, and you'll know you've helped to bring the change we need to Oregon.

Canvass shifts are taking place several times daily across Oregon. Click here to find the canvass shift nearest you, or contact your local Campaign for Change office to find out more.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi Stumps for Obama in Oregon

John Griswold — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 22:14:15 EDT

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi was in Portland last Friday to speak to Obama supporters and encourage them to give their all in these final days of the campaign. Speaker Pelosi spoke to a gathering of Women for Obama supporters about the importance of putting Barack Obama in the White House, and noted how crucial it is for Oregonians to vote for Jeff Merkley and Democrats down the ticket, thus giving Obama the support he'll need from the Senate to enact the change America needs.

It is important that every voter who supports Barack Obama is able to cast their ballot in this final week, and that's what our efforts from now until Election Day are focused on.

Even if you haven't had a chance to get involved before, now is the time to lend a hand.

Get involved in a GOTV (Get Out the Vote) activity today, and be a part of this historic campaign.

Craig Robinson Wants Oregonians To Vote And Volunteer

John Griswold — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 21:15:05 EDT

Craig Robinson knows a thing or two about Barack Obama.

Craig, Michelle Obama's brother, has spoken to crowds in Portland, Corvallis, and Eugene about his brother-in-law. Robinson encouraged Oregonians to register to vote, to vote as soon as they received their ballots, and to get involved in volunteer efforts in the final days of the Presidential campaign.

Craig Robinson is doing his part; will you do yours? Signup for a volunteer shift and help get out the vote in Oregon.

Obama-Biden Tax Calculator

John Griswold — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 22:23:38 EDT

Obama-Biden Tax Calculator

Barack Obama and Joe Biden will cut taxes for 95% of working families, and provide at least three times as much tax relief for middle class families as John McCain and Sarah Palin. The Obama/Biden plan provides $1,000 of tax relief for workers and new tax benefits to help families pay for college, childcare and save for retirement.

Read the full Obama tax plan here.
Compare the Obama and McCain Tax Plans.
Key Facts About Obama and Taxes.

A Message from the Oregon Field Director

John Griswold — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:37:32 EDT

Ballots begin arriving in Oregon this Friday, October 17th. The best way to help Barack in this historic election is by mailing in your ballot as soon as you receive it -- and by encouraging others to do the same.

It only takes a few minutes. And when you vote within 24 hours of receiving your ballot, you allow volunteers and organizers to better focus their resources and spend more time helping thousands of other Oregonians get their votes in for Barack and Democrats up and down the ballot.>br?

Visit VoteForChange.com right now to find the nearest ballot drop location near you, or mail your ballot in to your county elections office.

Vote early, remind everyone you know to do so as well, and help supporters and organizers do everything they can to get a big win for Barack Obama in Oregon.

Thanks,

Jesse

Jesse Bontecou
Field Director
Oregon Campaign for Change

P.S. -- Once you've voted, sign up for a Get Out The Vote shift in this final stretch to make sure all Oregonians get their ballots in and make their voices heard in this election:
http://or.barackobama.com/ORgotv

Deadline: Help Barack -- Register Voters in Oregon

John Griswold — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:34:47 EDT

Dear Friends,

Tuesday, October 14th, is Oregon's voter registration deadline. And this weekend -- October 11th and 12th -- is our last big chance to make sure everyone in Oregon is registered to vote.

Supporters like you have already brought thousands of new voices into the political process, but there are still folks in communities just like yours who support Barack but are not registered to vote.

That's why supporters are coming together across the state to reach out to their unregistered neighbors as part of our final statewide voter registration drive.

Will you help register voters this weekend and take part in our last voter registration drive before the deadline?

With the economy in crisis, it's more important than ever to change the way politics works in our nation's capital.

But we can only do it by working together, because real change comes from the bottom up, not the top down.

That means empowering people who have been left out of the political process or are just now old enough to add their voices. And there are thousands of unregistered voters across Oregon.

Take a few hours this weekend to help bring change to Oregon -- make sure your family, friends, and neighbors are registered, and help Barack Obama win this important battleground state.

Find a voter registration event near you and sign up today:

http://or.barackobama.com/OregonVoters

No experience is necessary to make a difference. All you need is energy and a commitment to change -- campaign staff will be there to support you with everything else.

Thanks for your help,

Jesse

Jesse Bontecou
Field Director
Oregon Campaign for Change

P.S. -- There are only 26 days left until Election Day, and this campaign's success is depending on supporters like you turning your enthusiasm into action. Come to a Get Out The Vote Summit this Sunday, October 12th, and learn how you can make sure every voter in Oregon has a chance to Vote for Change by November 4th:

http://or.barackobama.com/ORgotvsummit

Obama iPhone Application Debut and Debate Watch Party

John Griswold — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 20:42:33 EDT

Portland, OR- Tomorrow, the Portland based developers of the Obama iPhone application and Congressman Earl Blumenhauer will unveil the tool to local supporters at the Mission Theater. These members of the design team will explain the purpose and campaign significance of the application, and a demonstration and networking event will follow broadcast of the second Presidential Debate.

This event is an exciting opportunity to meet local members of the development team, find out about the iPhone application, and learn about opportunities to help the Campaign for Change in the final month of the Oregon campaign.

WHO: The Honorable Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), Raven Zachary, Jason Grigsby, Lyza Gardner, Aileen Jeffries, and John Keith, Portland-based co-creators of the Obama iPhone application

WHAT: Unveiling of Obama iPhone Application & Second Presidential Debate Watch Party

WHEN: Tuesday, October 7, 2008

5:00 - 5:30 p.m.- Doors Open for Portland Tech Community
5:30 - 6:00 p.m.- Welcome and Obama iPhone Application Demonstration
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.- Second Presidential Debate Broadcast
7:30 - 9:00 p.m.- More detailed Demonstration and Networking

WHERE: Mission Theater & Pub
1624 NW Glisan Street
Portland, OR

Introducing the Obama 08 iPhone App to Oregon

John Griswold — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 20:16:53 EDT

With only 31 days left, it's more important than ever to call your friends and family to make sure they are registered and voting for Barack. We are excited to announce another way to help you organize your personal contacts and ask them to "get out and vote."

We have launched an official iPhone Application, a free download for iPhone and iPod Touch users. This tool is designed to help you become more directly involved in our campaign to change our country.

The application has a "Call Your Friends" tool that helps you organize your contacts by key battleground states -- a feature we're hoping will generate thousands of additional personal contacts. You can also easily mark reminder notes to yourself on which friends you have called, who they are supporting and who wants a reminder call on Election Day. The information does not leave your phone (so your friends' and your own privacy are protected) but the total amount of calls the application makes are tallied, so you can keep track of your progress as we close in on November 4th.

The Obama 08 application also includes a tool to make it easy to find your local campaign office. Using your phone's current location, you can easily find a field office anywhere in the country (and even find directions to it using the mapping function).

Other features of the application include up to date news from the campaign, video, photos, and all of the issue information needed to use as talking points with your friends when convincing them to register and vote!

Please tell your iPhone users (and iPod Touch users) to download this app today. You can download the application here.

And all mobile users you can get news, updates, videos and more on your phone by texting SITE to 62262 to view our mobile WAP page.

Congressman Mike Honda Presents Obama Blueprint for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

John Griswold — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 23:19:41 EDT
Congressman Mike Honda, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, visited Portland today to present Oregon's Asian American and Pacific Islander communities with Barack Obama's blueprint for these groups.

State Treasurer Randall Edward and Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian were on hand to greet and introduce Honda, and the Asian American Community of Portland took the opportunity to announce its endorsement of Barack Obama for President.

Become part of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders for Obama .

Learn more about Barack Obama's blueprint for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders here .

Obama-Biden Campaign Releases New TV Ad On John McCain’s Plan To Tax Your Health Care Benefits

John Griswold — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 16:55:14 EDT
Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released a third 30 second TV ad, "One Word," which highlights how John McCain promises a health care tax credit, but doesn't tell you that for the first time ever, McCain will make you pay taxes on your health care benefits. McCain doesn't say one word about that.

Read about Barack Obama and Joe Biden's healthcare plan here.

Obama-Biden Campaign Launches New TV Ad on Last Night's Debate

John Griswold — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 12:43:52 EDT
CHICAGO, IL - Today, the Obama-Biden campaign released a new 30 second TV ad, "Can't Explain", which highlights health care in the debate last night. In the ad, which features footage from the debate, Joe Biden sheds light on the truth about John McCain's health care plan, telling America that McCain pays for his health care plan by taxing your health care benefits, and he calls that, "the ultimate bridge to nowhere."

The Ad-"Can't Explain"

Barack Obama Talks About Tax Cuts For Working Americans

John Griswold — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 23:24:33 EDT

Tonight, Senator Joe Biden and Governor Sarah Palin participated in the Vice Presidential Debate. One of the biggest issues addressed in the debate was the state of the American economy.

Read about Barack Obama's plan for responsible tax cuts for ordinary Oregonians and the middle class here.

Read about Barack Obama's plan to help small businesses here .

Read about Barack Obama's plan to protect homeownership and crack down on mortgage fraud here.

Want to get involved, and help bring change to Oregon and America, to become part of a movement that looks forward to making a better future for all Americans? Join Barack Obama's Campaign for Change.

Michelle Obama Encourages Oregonians To Register To Vote

John Griswold — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:25:19 EDT
Michelle Has 3 Simple Rules for Oregon:

The deadline to register to vote in Oregon for the 2008 Presidential Election is Tuesday, October 14th. That's less than two weeks from today.

Visit www.voteforchange.com to make sure you're registered at your current mailing address.

Visit your local Campaign for Change Office, and register to vote there.

Join a voter registration effort in your community, and help bring enfranchisement to others.

Our time is now. Registering to vote takes only a couple of minutes, but it is one of the most important ways you can help bring change to America with Barack Obama.

Statement of Senator Obama on Moving Financial Legislation Forward

John Griswold — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:50:30 EDT

Yesterday, within the course of a few hours, the failure to pass the economic rescue plan in Washington led to the single largest decline of the stock market in two decades.

While I, like others, am outraged that the reign of irresponsibility on Wall Street and in Washington has created the current crisis, I also know that continued inaction in the face of the gathering storm in our financial markets would be catastrophic for our economy and our families.

At this moment, when the jobs, retirement savings, and economic security of all Americans hang in the balance, it is imperative that all of us - Democrats and Republicans alike - come together to meet this crisis.

The bill rejected yesterday was a marked improvement over the original blank check proposed by the Bush Administration. It included restraints on CEO pay, protections for homeowners, strict oversight as to how the money is spent, and an assurance that taxpayers will recover their money once the economy recovers. Given the progress we have made, I believe we are unlikely to succeed if we start from scratch or reopen negotiations about the core elements of the agreement. But in order to pass this plan, we must do more.

One step we could take to potentially broaden support for the legislation and shore up our economy would be to expand federal deposit insurance for families and small businesses across America who have invested their money in our banks.

The majority of American families should rest assured that the deposits they have in our banks are safe. Thanks to measures put in place during the Great Depression, deposits of up to $100,000 are guaranteed by the federal government.

While that guarantee is more than adequate for most families, it is insufficient for many small businesses that maintain bank accounts to meet their payroll, buy their supplies, and invest in expanding and creating jobs. The current insurance limit of $100,000 was set 28 years ago and has not been adjusted for inflation.

That is why today, I am proposing that we also raise the FDIC limit to $250,000 as part of the economic rescue package - a step that would boost small businesses, make our banking system more secure, and help restore public confidence in our financial system.

I will be talking to leaders and members of Congress later today to offer this idea and urge them to act without delay to pass a rescue plan.

Portland Debate Party Draws Crowd of 500

John Griswold — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:18:35 EDT
Last Friday, supporters across Oregon gathered to watch Senators Barack Obama and John McCain engage in the first of three scheduled Presidential Debates. Campaign for Change offices held watch parties, in conjunction with concurrent gatherings taking place at private residences throughout the state.

One of the largest gathering took place just blocks from the Portland Campaign for Change headquarters. Supporters lined up for several blocks outside the Laurelhurst Theater, the energy palpable as the crowd filed into the building.

Interested in joining fellow Obama supporters to watch the Vice Presidential Debate, which will take place this Thursday, 6pm PST? Keep checking OR.BarackObama.com for more details.

Corvallis Volunteers Complete Midnight Registration Drive

John Griswold — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 19:35:37 EDT
Last Thursday, the streets of Corvallis were teeming with excited students. In a stunning upset, the Oregon State University football team defeated the number one team in the country, the University of Southern California.

Beaver fans rushed the field after the incredible victory, and Campaign for Change volunteers and staff rushed the streets around campus to register new voters.

Between the hours of 10pm to 2am, supporters armed with clipboards and glow-sticks registered over 150 new voters, helping to give a voice to these excited OSU fans, and helping to increase the voting pool for Barack Obama and Joe Biden when ballots drop in a few weeks.

The deadline to register to vote in Oregon is Tuesday, October 14th. Are you registered to vote? Are you sure? Check here to make certain.

Want to help make a difference? Registering new voters is one of best ways to help. Help register voters today, and become part of this historic movement.

Watch the Presidential Debate and Support Obama

John Griswold — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:45:57 EDT

On September 26th, Barack Obama and John McCain will have their first debate of the election. Senator Obama will present his case for why he and Joe Biden represent the change that America needs.

Supporters will be gathering across Oregon to watch this historic debate. Whether you host or attend a party, this is an important moment -- and a great opportunity to bring people together, talk about the issues, and build this movement for change.

If you've never attended a house party before, don't worry. With just six weeks left before Election Day, November 4th, this important first debate is the perfect time to get involved. Campaign for Change staff will give you all the training and tools you need to lend a hand to this historic movement.

Click here to attend or host a house party in your community.

Click here to get involved in Barack Obama's Campaign for Change.

Treasurer And Labor Commissioner Host Forum On Obama's Oregon Economic Plan

John Griswold — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:37:15 EDT

Oregonians Affected by State's Economic Downturn to Participate in Discussion

PORTLAND, OR - This Thursday, Oregon State Treasurer Randall Edwards and Labor Commissioner
Brad Avakian will announce how Obama's Oregon economic plan with help Oregon's working families and host an economic forum alongside Oregonians affected by the economic downturn.

As the country faces more job losses, rising high gas prices and financial turmoil on Wall Street, Oregon's economy has been severely affected. State unemployment reached 6.5 percent in August, leaving more than 123,000 Oregonians without jobs. Since President Bush took office, gas prices in Oregon have gone up 161 percent and housing prices continue to fall.

Oregonians can't afford four more years of these same failed economic policies. Edwards and Avakian will discuss how Obama's Oregon economic plan will provide Oregonians with immediate economic
and energy relief, real tax relief, as well as, how his plan will help those facing foreclosure and help get the Oregon economy back on track.

WHO: Oregon State Treasurer Randall Edwards,
Oregon Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian,
Oregonians effected by the economic downturn in Oregon

WHAT: Forum announcing Obama's Oregon Economic Plan

WHEN: Thursday, September 25, 2008
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. PST

WHERE: Barack Obama's Campaign for Change Headquarters
3016 SE Division Avenue
Portland, OR

Veterans and Military Families Panel Addresses Portland HQ

John Griswold — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 21:32:21 EDT
PORTLAND, OR - Yesterday, Oregon veterans and military families gathered at Barack Obama's Campaign for Change Oregon headquarters for a roundtable discussion. Topics of discussion included their personal experiences, their unique perspectives as military family members and veterans, key issues in choosing the next commander in chief, and why they support the Obama/Biden ticket.

Participants included Former Air Force Chief of Staff General Tony McPeak, veterans from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the first Gulf War, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as
family members of fallen servicemen.

A large crowd turned out to hear the panel share their insight. General McPeak, a long time Republican, told the crowd that he had worked for the Bush Campaign in 2000, and how that administration's actions and culture had compelled him to support the Kerry Campaign in 2004, and Senator's Obama and Biden today. General McPeak gave a detailed description of the qualities he admired in Obama; his deliberate and measured leadership, his thoughtful and decisive approach to issues, and his keen ability to bring people together. Following the panel's presentation, a question and answer session took place.

If you are a veteran or part of a military family, click here to join the Campaign for Change's constituency group, and let your voice be heard.

Obama Directly Addresses America in Two-Minute Ad: Plan for Change

John Griswold — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:54:01 EDT
CHICAGO, IL - On Wednesday, the Obama campaign released a two-minute advertisement in which Senator Obama will speak directly to the nation on his view of the state of the economy and what he would do to fix it if he is elected president. The ad will begin today nationally and in battleground states around the country.

Visit BarackObama.com/plan to read Obama's plan for the economy now.

Join the Women's Weekend of Action in Oregon

John Griswold — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 18:41:48 EDT

Women for Obama and the Campaign for Change are excited to announce the "Women's Weekend of Action".

This weekend, women across Oregon will be gathering in Campaign for Change offices to reach out to their communities about the issues that matter most to them and their families.

Let your voice be heard: attend a "Women's Weekend of Action" event near you, and let your fellow Oregonians know why Barack Obama is the best candidate for change, for the future, and for America.

Click here of the links to find an event near you, or call your local office to sign up for a volunteer shift in your area.

Governor Howard Dean Visits Portland Headquarters

John Griswold — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:19:01 EDT
Portland, OR- Last Friday, Governor Howard Dean visited the Campaign for Change headquarters in Portland and spoke to a crowd of hundreds of supporters.

As part of a "Volunteer Appreciation" event, Governor Dean emphasized why Barack Obama was the best candidate to bring the change America needs to Oregon. Dean, the current Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, also stressed the need for volunteers to work tirelessly between now and November 4th to ensure that Democrats succeed on down the ticket. Thanking the crowd for their hard work, Governor Dean expressed the need for the brand of substantial change Barack Obama and Joe Biden stand to bring to the White House.

Following Governor Dean's speech, supporters enjoyed tables full of potluck offerings. Campaign for Change organizers manned clipboards, and channeled the energy that Governor Dean brought to building into new volunteer commitments.

Want to get involved? Click here to join this historical movement. There's never been a better time to work for a better tomorrow.

Obama Campaign Release New Ad, "Honor"

John Griswold — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:34:36 EDT
CHICAGO, IL - Following a weekend of scathing media reports and editorials on John McCain's unprecedented campaign of dishonor and dishonesty, the Obama campaign today released a new 30 second TV ad called Honor.

Howard Dean Comes To Portland

John Griswold — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 08:46:29 EDT

HOWARD DEAN, CHAIRMAN OF THE DNC, COMES TO PORTLAND FRIDAY AS PART OF REGISTER FOR CHANGE TOUR

Dean makes important stop in Oregon for Obama and Democrats across Oregon

PORTLAND, OR - This Friday, Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean will travel
to Portland, as part of his Register for Change tour through key states. Since the tour's kick-off in mid-
July Gov. Dean has campaigned in 18 states and the District of Columbia making dozens of campaign
stops, recruiting hundreds of volunteers and registering thousands of voters. The tour continues to build
on the overwhelming enthusiasm and voter turnout seen during the primaries as Democrats mobilize and
organize voters for the fall election.

Chairman Dean has praised Oregonians for their grassroots efforts across the state. Barack Obama's
Campaign for Change has 13 offices statewide and has launched canvassing efforts in all 36 counties
across Oregon.

WHO: Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean

WHAT: Visit to Portland

WHEN: Friday, September 12, 2008

Lewis and Clark: 1 PM - 2 PM

Volunteer Appreciation Event: 5 PM - 6 PM

WHERE:
Lewis and Clark College Community Registration Event - 1 PM - 2 PM
Council Chamber, Templeton Student Center (Building #36)
0615 SW Palatine Hill Rd, Portland OR, 97219

Volunteers Appreciation Event at Obama's Campaign
for Change Headquarters - 5 PM - 6 PM
3016 SE Division, Portland, OR 97202

Click here to RSVP for the Volunteer Appreciation Event.

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.

New Ad: "What Kind"

John Griswold — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:53:49 EDT

Obama Campaign Launches Response TV Ad Called "No Maverick"

John Griswold — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:48:46 EDT
Obama Campaign Launches Response TV Ad Called "No Maverick"
Highlights How McCain and Palin are Not Mavericks, They Are Just More of The Same

CHICAGO, IL - Today, in response to the McCain ad "Maverick", the Obama campaign released a new 30-second TV ad, No Maverick.

Help Out With "Barack To School"

John Griswold — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:21:32 EDT

Last week, Barack officially accepted the Democratic nomination for president at the historic Open Convention in Denver.

Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Democrats up and down the ballot can bring change to Oregon and America this fall, but it will take thousands of new voices joining the political process to make it happen.

With Oregon students arriving at school this month and thousands of unregistered voters tuning into politics during the conventions, now is the perfect time to reach out to them through our "Barack to School" voter registration drive.

This weekend, fellow supporters will be coming together at schools, farmers markets, and door-to-door in neighborhoods like yours to help bring the change this country needs.

Find an event near you and sign up now to join your fellow supporters this weekend.

After a successful Weekend of Action over Labor Day, we have just a few weeks left to register thousands of voters in Oregon.

No one of us could do this alone, but with this grassroots movement growing across the state, we can do this together.

No experience is required to get involved. Just bring your enthusiasm and hunger for change -- Campaign for Change staff will be there with all the support you need.

Face-to-face contact is the best way to connect with fellow Oregonians and give people the power to participate in our system.

Sign up today for a voter registration event in your area:

http://or.barackobama.com/baracktoschool .

Thanks for your help,

Jesse

Jesse Bontecou
Oregon Field Director
Campaign for Change

August Jobs Report Shows Unemployment At Highest Level Since September 2003

John Griswold — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:28:02 EDT

AUGUST JOBS REPORT SHOWS UNEMPLOYMENT AT HIGHEST LEVEL SINCE SEPTEMBER 2003

Oregonians have lost 10,400 jobs since Bush took office, Obama's plan would provide Oregon's economy with over $621,218,856

Portland, OR - Today, the Labor Department released the August jobs report showing the eighth straight month of job losses. The unemployment rate has jumped to 6.1% and approximately 84,000 jobs have been lost over the last month. So far, the economy has lost 605,000 jobs in 2008, and right now more than 9 million Americans are looking for work.

Oregon's economy has not escaped the national downturn. Since Bush took office, the unemployment rate in Oregon is 6%, and the state has lost 10,400, 8,900 of which were manufacturing jobs.

Sen. Obama would enact an immediate economic stimulus plan that would provide 1.8 million workers in Oregon with Obama's Making Work Pay tax cut of $500 per worker and $1000 per family, providing Oregon's economy with over $621,218,856. Sen. Obama's statement is below.

"Today's jobs report is a reminder of what's at stake in this election - John McCain showed last night that he is intent on continuing the economic policies that just this year have caused the American economy to lose 605,000 jobs. John McCain may believe that the fundamentals of our economy are 'strong,' but the working men and women I meet every day are working harder for less, the typical working age family's income is down $2,000 since George Bush took office, and their purchasing power is as low as it's been in a decade. John McCain's answer is more of the same: $200 billion in tax cuts to big corporations and oil companies, and not one dime of tax relief to more than 100 million middle-class families. If I am President, I will cut taxes for 95% of all working families and provide an immediate $50 billion to struggling states so that they don't have to cut back on health care and education and can rebuild roads and schools. That's the change working families need right now," said Senator Barack Obama.

Barack Obama will work hard to solve this economic crisis and help American families. To read more about Barack Obama's plan to jumpstart our economy, provide middle class Americans tax relief, create jobs, support small businesses, and address the mortgage crisis, visit http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/ .

Want to share your thoughts on the economy? Click here , and let your voice be heard.

Republicans for Obama Launch and Press Conference

John Griswold — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:03:34 EDT

Wednesday, prominent Oregonians from across the Portland area gathered to announce the launch of Republicans for Obama. This group of former and currently-registered Republicans endorsed Barack Obama for President and announced their efforts in the state of Oregon to help Sen. Obama win in November.

The group discussed how Bush's failures and Obama's policies drew them to come out for the candidates, as well as their efforts to bring fellow Republicans and independents in the state over to support Obama.

Don Holden, a retired Army Colonel who served in WWII in Europe and on Okinawa, shared these words with the crowd:
I was a lifetime Eisenhower Republican until the Bush Administration's ill-conceived preemptive invasion of Iraq, which I consider to be the biggest strategic blunder in my lifetime. Obama and Biden understand that going to war should only be considered as a last resort after all diplomatic means have been exhausted, the objective is clearly defined, and our vital national interest is at stake. My grandson served a year in Iraq and is still in the National Guard. Obama and Biden understand that the National Guard and reserves were never intended to be used as a foreign occupation force for an indefinite period of time.

Mary Jean Rivera, a former elementary and junior high school principal, had this to say about Senator Obama:
It's time for a change, for a change who can present and hold up our American ideals once agina. I am impressed by Obama's thoughtful and principled approach. Obama and Biden will certainly have my vote!

George Atiyeh, an airline pilot, delivered this statement:
I am a lifelong Republican and former and former Army Reserve officer who has watched and participated in picking the President since Ike Eisenhower. For the last eight years, I have witnessed our Republican Party lose its direction, rot its roots, and no longer resemble the party I grew up in... Eight years ago, John McCain represented change, but now he too has lost his way and has embraced the policies of George W. Bush. Barack Obama, in contrast, is prepared to turn this country around and get us back on track. Rarely do we, as Americans, have the opportunity to elect a man who has the potential to bring real positive change. Barack Obama is that man and he has my wholehearted support and I intend to work for him, not just for myself but for my eight grandchildren.

Are you a Republican who plans on supporting Barack Obama in November? Let us know.

Weekend of Action: Obama Supporters Work for Change

John Griswold — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 21:37:01 EDT
Over Labor Day weekend, Oregonians across the state worked for change in Weekend of Action events.

Supporters in Salem spent their Saturday canvassing voters in their neighborhoods.

Corvallis held phone-banking and voter registration events throughout the weekend.

In Junction City and small towns across Oregon, supporters took time out of their weekend to share Barack Obama's plan for America.

Albany supporters didn't let Sunday's weather keep them from lending a hand.

The Weekend of Action was a great success, with Campaign for Change events taking place in all 36 of Oregon's counties. There is still time to get involved in this historic movement. Visit your local Campaign for Change office to find out more. Or click here to lend a hand.

Now is a great time to get involved. Change can't happen without you.

Campaign For Change Office Collect For Gulf Coast Relief

John Griswold — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:07:55 EDT

OBAMA FOR OREGON AND CAMPAIGN FOR CHANGE OFFICES TO COLLECT FOR GULF COAST HURRICANE RELIEF

OFFICES WILL COLLECT WATER AND NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS

PORTLAND, OR- Today, Obama for Oregon and Oregon Campaign for Change announced that all offices in Oregon will accept donations of non-perishable food items to aid the people of the Gulf Coast in the wake of Hurricane Gustav.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the residents and responders in the Gulf Coast," said Sahar Wali, Obama's Oregon spokeswoman. "We have a strong base of Oregonians who want to be active and give back, and the campaign will do what it can to help with relief and recovery efforts."

Yesterday, the Obama-Biden campaign activated its donor and volunteer network of millions of Americans to mobilize on behalf of storm victims by sending donations to the Red Cross. Obama for American and the Campaign for Change encourage Oregonians interested in providing financial assistance to visit www.or.barackobama.com to be linked to organizations providing relief in the region.

WHO: Obama for Oregon and Barack Obama's Campaign for Change

WHAT: Gulf Coast relief non-perishable food collection drive

WHEN: Beginning Tuesday, September 2, 2008

WHERE: Campaign for Change offices statewide

Click here to find your local Campaign for Change office.

Weekend of Action: Kick-off Rally in NE Portland

John Griswold — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:44:19 EDT
The Weekend of Action in Oregon kicked off with a rally last Saturday in NE Portland. Dozens of supporters gathered to listen to General Election Director Jack Shapiro address the crowd at the NE Portland Campaign for Change office.

Fired up and ready for change, the crowd took to neighborhoods across Portland, as hundreds of others were doing the same in communities throughout the state.

Supporters enjoyed the beautiful day out on the streets, putting their energy into expressing Barack Obama's message of change. Canvassers talked with their neighbors about why they support Senator Obama, and registered scores of new voters to deepen the pool of potential voters for November.

Would you like to lend a hand? Canvassing is the most effective way to spread Barack's message to your community, but there are many ways to help. Click here to get involved today, and become part of this historic movement.

Weekend of Action: Obama Supporters Active All Across Oregon

John Griswold — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:25:11 EDT
Following Senator Barack Obama's landmark speech last Thursday in Denver, many Oregonians found themselves asking "what can I do to help?" Whether they had been making calls every weekend since March, or had never knocked a door or registered a voter before, men and women across the state looked to channel their energy inspired by Barack's words into action, into the sort of grassroots organizing that will bring substantive change to our country.

It was in light of this inspiration, and the three day weekend afforded to most Oregonians by the Labor Day holiday, that Barack Obama's Campaign for Change held canvasses in all 36 counties in Oregon. This was the first time in history that a volunteer effort of this scale had taken place.

Supporters young and old reached out across Oregon: they made phone calls to undecided voter in Medford, sharing their personal reasons why they support Obama; they went door to door to speak face to face with their neighbors about Obama in towns like La Grande, Astoria, Grants Pass, and Bend; they held voter registration drives at a University of Oregon football game in Eugene, at a rally in NE Portland.

The Weekend of Action marked the latest chapter in a campaign that has been built and powered by grassroots activism, by ordinary Americans taking a few hours from their busy lives to work for the sort of change they want to see in the world. Thanks so much to all of the volunteers who put time aside from their busy schedules this weekend to lend a hand. This campaign is about you, and it couldn't exist without you.

This is the time to get involved. Even if you've never volunteered before, visit your local Campaign for Change office and signup to help out . Become a part of this historical movement. Remember: change can't happen without you.

Help Gulf Coast residents and first responders

John Griswold — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 15:02:54 EDT

Today, the thoughts and prayers of all Americans are with those in the path of Hurricane Gustav -- and many of you are asking what you can do to help.

We do not yet know what the impact of Hurricane Gustav will be, and we hope with all our hearts that the damage will not be as great as it was three years ago.

But we know there will be damage, and there is something you can do right now.

Your financial support will strengthen organizations like the American Red Cross that are evacuating Gulf Coast residents and planning to help communities get back on their feet.

Make a donation to support the American Red Cross today .

At times like this, it is our compassion and resilience that define who we are as a nation.

Please give whatever you can afford, even $10, to make sure the American Red Cross has the resources to help those in the path of this storm:

https://donate.barackobama.com/redcross

Thank you for your generosity, and I hope you will join Michelle and me in praying for the safety of those in the path of the storm and the first responders who are doing all they can to ensure the safety of their communities.

-Barack

Hurricane Gustav: How You Can Help

John Griswold — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 23:33:39 EDT
As Hurricane Gustav approaches and Gulf Coast residents evacuate their communities, our thoughts and prayers go out to those who are affected by this situation.

Mayor Ray Nagin has announced a mandatory evacuation for the City of New Orleans today, Sunday, August 31st. If you are in the New Orleans area, please contact the state emergency hotline at 1-866-288-2484 if you need more information or go to the State of Louisiana site for an updated list of evacuations by parish.

If you are a Mississippi resident, please click here for information .

State and local government officials are working hard to ensure the safety and well-being of the people of the region, and many of you have asked how you can help too.

Please find out how you can help by visiting the American Red Cross or Save The Children today. You can also make a donation at both of these sites to help the families affected by Hurricane Gustav.

If disaster strikes, your support will be vital to those organizations that work to help our communities get back to their feet.

Stay tuned for updates and more information on how you can help.

-Sam Graham-Felsen

Oregonians Gather to Watch Obama Accept Historic Nomination

John Griswold — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 23:07:04 EDT

Last night, supporters across Oregon and the country watched as history was made. Before thousands of supporters in Denver, and with millions watching across America, Senator Barack Obama took to the stage and accepted the Democratic Party's nomination for President of the United States of America. Obama spoke of uniting a country that has seen eight years fall short of its dreams, of common ground, of the need for Americans of every strip and background to come together to confront and overcome the significant challenges that face us. As he spoke that night, Obama offered legitimate hope, he offered pragmatic methods, he offered a change from the direction of the last eight years. And now, with less than 70 days until Americans will issue a referendum on these past eight years, when we will speak up and elect a new leader, the time has never been better to join the Campaign for Change.
Become involved, let your voice be heard, and be a part of this historical movement.
Portland

La Grande

Salem

Bend

Medford

NE Portland

Beaverton

Roseburg

Oregonians Respond To Selection Of Palin As Running Mate

John Griswold — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:25:24 EDT
OREGONIANS RESPOND TO SELECTION OF PALIN AS RUNNING MATE
Say Palin is not a game changer and will only continue more of the same

PORTLAND, OR - Today, on his 72nd birthday, Sen. John McCain announced first-term Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his Vice-Presidential running mate. Prior to serving as Governor of Alaska, a state with a total population less than Multnomah County, Palin served as a part-time Mayor of Wasilla, AK, a town of less than 9,000. Oregonians' responses to the McCain-Palin ticket are below.

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski: "Today, John McCain has put Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, a governor who has only been in office for less than two years, with zero foreign policy experience, a heartbeat away from the presidency. John McCain, himself, said that a president must have 'the national security experience and background to lead this nation'. When you compare her credentials with Sen. Joe Biden, who is chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and one of the foremost foreign policy experts who has met with both allies and enemies, it's clear that the Obama-Biden ticket is the right choice with the judgment we need to keep America safe in the years ahead."

U.S. Rep. Darlene Hooley (D-Ore.): "Today, Sen. John McCain has provided yet another example of his questionable judgment and put Gov. Sarah Palin, the former part-time mayor of a town of 9,000, a heartbeat away from the presidency. This pick had nothing to do with being qualified to be president, which Gov. Palin clearly isn't. It had everything to do with McCain trying to salvage his campaign."

U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.): "Frankly, I'm surprised by the pick. For John McCain to put so much focus on national security experience and then pick Gov. Sarah Palin, who has no foreign policy experience whatsoever, shows he lacks the judgment we need in our president. McCain may think this is a game changer, but Gov. Palin doesn't change the fact that the Republican ticket is offering more of the same instead of the change we need."

Susan Castillo, Oregon Superintendant of Public Instruction: "Barack Obama is right, McCain is not the one to bring about change and by adding Palin to the ticket we'll just get more of the same. Sarah Palin shares John McCain's commitment to overturning Roe v. Wade and to continuing George Bush's failed economic and energy policies. It's clear that McCain's choice of Palin has more to do with trying to light up his dim campaign than it does about making the right choice to lead our nation. As a woman, this strengthens my resolve to work even harder to get Obama-Biden elected to bring the change we need."

Jeff Cogen, Multnomah County Commissioner, District 2: "We wouldn't put a two year county commissioner of Multnomah County a single heartbeat away from the presidency, especially when you consider that John McCain is twenty three years older than the State of Alaska."

Video: Barack Obama at Mile High -- "The American Promise"

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:42:57 EDT

On a cloudless August night in Denver, before a united party and thousands of grassroots supporters from all across America, Senator Obama accepted the Democratic Party presidential nomination.

Obama made the case for why America cannot afford four more years of the same failed policies and laid out his vision to bring about fundamental change at home and abroad. He reminded us of the extraordinary promise of America at its best and challenged us to continue to fight for that promise, to march ahead, to not turn back...
That promise is our greatest inheritance. It’s a promise I make to my daughters when I tuck them in at night, and a promise that you make to yours – a promise that has led immigrants to cross oceans and pioneers to travel west; a promise that led workers to picket lines, and women to reach for the ballot.
And it is that promise that forty five years ago today, brought Americans from every corner of this land to stand together on a Mall in Washington, before Lincoln’s Memorial, and hear a young preacher from Georgia speak of his dream.
The men and women who gathered there could’ve heard many things. They could’ve heard words of anger and discord. They could’ve been told to succumb to the fear and frustration of so many dreams deferred.
But what the people heard instead – people of every creed and color, from every walk of life – is that in America, our destiny is inextricably linked. That together, our dreams can be one.
“We cannot walk alone,” the preacher cried. “And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back.”
America, we cannot turn back. Not with so much work to be done. Not with so many children to educate, and so many veterans to care for. Not with an economy to fix and cities to rebuild and farms to save. Not with so many families to protect and so many lives to mend. America, we cannot turn back. We cannot walk alone. At this moment, in this election, we must pledge once more to march into the future. Let us keep that promise – that American promise – and in the words of Scripture hold firmly, without wavering, to the hope that we confess.

To all of our supporters, from those who have been with this remarkable campaign from the beginning to those of you who are just joining this movement for change: if you agree that we cannot turn back now -- that this is our moment to seize -- please make a donation today.
Continue reading for the full remarks as prepared for delivery...

Watch as History is Made

John Griswold — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 11:32:46 EDT

On August 28th, Barack Obama will accept the Democratic nomination in front of more than 75,000 supporters in Denver and millions of viewers at home.

It's only through the hard work and dedication of supporters like you that Barack is able to accept the Democratic nomination.

With less than 75 days left until Election Day, we cannot let up now.

Convention Watch Parties will be taking place all across Oregon, and attending one is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this historic nomination, meet local campaign staff and supporters, and plan for the days leading up to November 4th.

Click here to attend an official Campaign for Change watch party, and be there to watch as history is made.

"With one voice" - Barack Obama Becomes the Democratic Party Nominee

Christopher Hass — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 21:04:19 EDT

Not long ago, in the midst of a formal roll call of the votes of all the delegates, Hillary Clinton made an announcement from her place on the floor among the New York delegation, moving to suspend the roll call and nominate Barack Obama as the Democratic candidate for President of the United States:
On behalf of the great state of New York, with appreciation for the spirit and dedication of all who are gathered here, with eyes firmly fixed on the future, in the spirit of unity... let's declare all together, with one voice, right here and right now, that Barack Obama is our candidate and he will be our president.
Clinton's motion suspended the rules while still formally counting state votes, and after a unanimous round of "ayes" Nancy Pelosi closed the proceedings, declaring Barack Obama the official nominee of the Democratic Party.
Here is the video of this incredible, historic moment:

Oregonians Host Women for Obama House Parties

John Griswold — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:06:59 EDT
Yesterday, women across Oregon gathered to celebrate the 88th anniversary of The Nineteenth Amendment, which gave women the right to vote in the United States. This historical event was paid fitting tribute by Senator Hillary Clinton, whose own historical campaign in the Democratic primaries this year placed, as Senator Clinton put it, "18,000,000 cracks in the glass ceiling".

Supporters gathered in homes throughout Oregon and across the country, some sharing their experiences from the primaries, some discussing their opinions and the great strides made in that contest, and all of them watching as Senator Clinton gave a stirring speech. "Whether you voted for me, or voted for Barack, the time is now to unite as a single party with a single purpose," Clinton said, asking democrats and Americans of all stripes to come together and work to elect Barack Obama this November.

There are less than 70 days until Election Day. As Senator Clinton said, we can't afford four more years of the last eight years in John McCain. Volunteer today , become part of this historic movement, and help bring hope and change to Oregon.

Oregonians Respond to News of Obama-Biden Ticket

John Griswold — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 21:36:29 EDT

PORTLAND, OR – Yesterday, Sen. Barack Obama announced Sen. Joe Biden as his vice-presidential running mate before a crowd of tens of thousands in Springfield, Ill. Responses from elected officials and community leaders from across Oregon are below.

State Sen. Margaret Carter, President Pro Tempore (D-Portland): “Democrats have a dream team! An Obama-Biden ticket brings together the experience, leadership and vision necessary to bring peace to the world, and make America strong abroad again.”

State Sen. Ben Westlund (D-Tumalo), Democratic Candidate for Oregon Treasurer: “I am very
pleased with Barack’s choice for Vice President. Joe Biden is a strong long leader on national defense and understands the challenges facing today’s working families. He has the right priorities.”

State Rep. Mary Nolan (D-Portland): “Joe Biden has been an exemplary leader on women’s issues, giving voice to them on a federal level. Obama’s choice of Biden sends a clear message that this next administration will prioritize women and such policies as gender-based crimes, choice, domestic violence, equal pay and health care. This ticket speaks to strength and unity. I am excited and confident in this pair!”

State Rep. Brad Witt (D-Clatskanie): "Joe Biden is the right partner for Barack Obama. His many years of distinguished service to America, his seasoned judgment and his vast experience in foreign policy is the kind of leadership we need. An Obama-Biden ticket is a very impressive and strong team, and is the balanced ticket that America is looking to vote for. It is one that promises to honor working men and women of this country.”

Susan Castillo (State Superintendant of Public Instruction): "Senator Obama's choice of Joe Biden for Vice President demonstrates again that he knows what kind of leadership our country needs today to move us forward. Senator Biden has had the courage to lead on a wide range of issues--foreign policy, national security, and public safety. He also knows that investing in our people through increasing access to education will create a stronger United States of America. I am excited and inspired to support Biden as the vice-presidential running mate."

KC Hanson, Chair of the Multnomah County Democratic Party: “Joe Biden is one of the most
astute members in Congress on foreign policy, whose experience and expertise will no doubt benefit America, but also the rest of the world. His depth of understanding on domestic issues and foreign affairs is unmatched. Together, Barack and Joe Biden provide the American people with the leadership they deserve.”

Rev. Alcena Boozer: “The first thing I thought of was that it was an inspirational choice. I think that
Biden’s experience on the foreign relations committee brings good strength and compliments Obama’s strengths as well. I watched Sen. Biden’s speech accounting for the Republicans’ use of slander and dirty politics – shaming it as not being the American way. To see someonestanding up for that is helpful to bring us back to the real issues. That is the way it should be.”

Michelle Singer (First American): “I am excited to know that Joe Biden has been selected as Barack Obama’s Vice President. Joe Biden certainly has vision and underscores the same message of change that Barack Obama does. He has been a senior statesmen in the Senate, pushing the envelope and making sure there is accountability and transparency in our government, but also holding both sides of the aisle accountable for their actions and making sure that all folks are able to share the American dream. Because of his expertise on foreign policy, intelligence, arms control, and national security, he has been there for our nation’s veterans, and those fighting on the front lines -- all along with empowering the grass roots. I am very happy with this choice.”

Liz Kauffman (Oregon delegate): “The Obama-Biden team is a perfect balance and forward looking leadership for our country. I am so excited to support this ticket, which offers fresh new leadership and escape from four more years of Bush -- and a thoughtful seriousness about the challenges we face and how to take them on!”

Charlie Burr (Environmental Activist) “Joe Biden understands that investing in clean energy makes America safer and more secure. And Biden will help fight for a sound energy policy that not only creates good jobs for our country, but reduces our reliance on unstable and hostile parts of the world for our energy needs. Today's pick is a great example of the judgment and leadership that will make Obama a great president. Go Obama-Biden!”

Barack Obama Has Chosen A Running Mate

John Griswold — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:25:32 EDT
I have some important news that I want to make official.

I've chosen Joe Biden to be my running mate.

Joe and I will appear for the first time as running mates this afternoon in Springfield, Illinois -- the same place this campaign began more than 19 months ago.

I'm excited about hitting the campaign trail with Joe, but the two of us can't do this alone. We need your help to keep building this movement for change.

Please let Joe know that you're glad he's part of our team. Share your personal welcome note and we'll make sure he gets it:

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

Thanks for your support,

Barack

P.S. -- Make sure to turn on your TV at 2:00 p.m. Central Time to join us or watch online at http://www.BarackObama.com

How Many Houses Does John McCain Have?

John Griswold — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:48:13 EDT

CHICAGO - Today, the Obama campaign released a new 30-second TV ad, Seven, discussing just how out of touch John McCain is with the struggles of everyday people. The ad highlight's John McCain's desire to just offer more of the same economic policies we've gotten from President Bush, as just yesterday he declared "the fundamentals of our economy are strong" and lost track of how many houses he owns.

Oregon Campaign Staff Discuss Strategy With Press

John Griswold — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:34:59 EDT

OBAMA CAMPAIGN LAYS OUT OREGON AS MAJOR PART OF NATIONAL STRATEGY TOWARD VICTORY

Sen. Wyden & Senior Staff Release Details On Obama's Campaign for Change Structure, Outreach and Field Plan

PORTLAND, OR - U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden and Obama for America Oregon State Director Rob Hill held a conference call with reporters today to discuss the campaign's strategy for victory in Oregon.

"The Obama campaign believes that Oregon is central to our ability to win the presidency," said Hill. "Historically, Oregon has been closer in presidential elections than its neighboring states. In 2004, Kerry went into Election Day with an eight point lead and won by only four percent. In 2000, Gore won by less than one percent of the vote. We are expecting a very close race in Oregon and we are going to fight hard."

Read the full press release here .

A win in Oregon this year will be an absolutely critical aspect of winning the presidency on November 4th, and the the time has never been better to get involved in your community to help make sure Barack Obama brings change to the White House. Thousands of Oregonians have already volunteered. Now is your chance to get involved in this historic campaign. You can help Barack from the comfort of your home using the Neighbor to Neighbor tool . Or visit any Campaign for Change office to find out how you can help .

Beaverton Volunteer Has A Big Night

John Griswold — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 22:12:37 EDT
On Monday, August 12th, a Barack Obama supporter may have set a new world record. Well, maybe not a new world record, but Kathryn Olson can certainly say she had a productive night.

Kathryn is participating in the internship program at the Beaverton Campaign For Change office. It isn't unusual to find her in the office making hours of call each day, talking to voters in Washington county about why she supports Barack Obama and why she thinks he is the best candidate for President. But on this particular day, Kathryn sat down at 4pm and didn't leave her chair until after 9pm, talking to almost one hundred Oregonians about what compels her to volunteer for Senator Obama, and sharing her personal story while listening to their stories. It is people like Kathryn that make this movement what it is, a grassroots effort in towns and communities across America, a group of individuals inspired to work towards a common goal of hope and change, and with a vision of a better tomorrow for all of us. Congratulations, Kathryn. And thanks to all the volunteers and supporters who work so hard to make this movement what it is: to respect, empower, and include.

Not everybody has hours of time each day to help out. But it only takes a little time to make a big change. Sign up to volunteer for Barack Obama in your community . Change can't happen without you.

Opening the Office in Corvallis

John Griswold — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 18:05:17 EDT

Corvallis welcomed its very own Campaign for Change office to town last Saturday, August 9th, at 223 NW 2nd St. Local supporters were on hand to celebrate the opening and gear up for the march to November. Both volunteers from the Oregon Primary and first timers alike listened to Organizer Eric Litmer discuss the plan for getting out Senator Obama's message of change across Corvallis and the neigboring towns and counties.
After introductions and a meet-and-greet session, supporters took to their neighborhoods in a canvass effort, knocking on doors and talking to voters about why they support Barack Obama. Others signed up for phonebanking slots, voter registration drives, and future Campaign for Change activities taking place across Oregon.
There are many ways to help out and become a part of this movement. Perhaps the most important thing supporters can do now is register their friends and family to vote in Oregon. It only takes a minute to register, and building the foundation of possible voters it is one of the most crucial ways folks can help Senator Obama here in Oregon. Click here to get involved. Canvassing efforts are another way to help out, and there is no better way to contact undecided voters in your neighborhood and share your reasons for supporting Barack. Sign up here to help canvass.
There are many ways to help. Change cannot happen without you.

Who Will Be Barack's VP? Be The First to Know.

John Griswold — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:40:33 EDT

Dear John --

Barack Obama is about to make one of the most important decisions of this campaign -- choosing a running mate.

You have helped build this movement from the bottom up, and Barack wants you to be the first to know his choice.

Sign up today to be the first to know:

http://my.barackobama.com/vp

You will receive an email the moment Barack makes his decision, or you can text VP to 62262 to receive a text message on your mobile phone.

Once you've signed up, please forward this email to your friends, family, and coworkers to let them know about this special opportunity.

No other campaign has done this before. You can be part of this important moment.

Be the first to know who Barack selects as his running mate.

Thanks,

David

David Plouffe
Campaign Manager
Obama for America

Barack Obama's Campaign for Change Gets a New Home in Salem

John Griswold — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:46:50 EDT
Yesterday, Oregon welcomed three new Campaign for Change offices to the state. To celebrate this occasion, offices in Medford, Corvallis, and Salem had open houses to let these communities know how the Campaign is working in their area, and how supporters and first-time volunteers can lend a hand.

Patrick New, the organizer for Salem, welcomed folks into the office Saturday morning. Salem supporters have been working tirelessly to see that Senator Obama becomes the next President for months now, going back even before the Oregon primary, and this event provided an opportunity for supporters to get to know one another. It was also a chance to hear the strategy being put in place to secure a win in November, and to share ideas on how the grassroots activism that has been the foundation of Barack Obama's campaign will bring about the change people across Oregon are working hard for. To that end, over a third of the almost one hundred attendees spent part of the day canvassing their communities, talking to their neighbors about Senator Obama, before returning for snacks, a raffle, and to place their completed packets on the Canvassing Wall of Fame.

Now is the time to get involved, and there are plenty of ways to lend a hand. There are offices across Oregon, and it only takes a few hours to help bring Change to Oregon and to this country. Sign up here , and become a part of this historical campaign.

Oregon Credentials to the 2008 Democratic National Convention

John Griswold — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:25:40 EDT

Released today:

OREGON OBAMA CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCES DRAWING FOR ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY CREDENTIALS FOR NATIONAL CONVENTION

Oregon’s community credential recipients to attend fourth night acceptance speech at Democratic National Convention in Denver.
PORTLAND, OR – Today, the Oregon Obama campaign announced plans for distribution of additional community credentials for the fourth night, August 28th, of the 2008 Democratic National Convention at INVESCO Field at Mile High in Denver, CO.

“We are thrilled to be able to give Oregonians from across the state the opportunity to attend America’s convention and to witness Barack Obama’s historic acceptance of the Democratic nomination for President of the United States,” said Rob Hill, Oregon State Director for the Obama Campaign.

“One of the best ways we can introduce Oregon voters to our campaign and to our vision for this country is by getting them involved in the Convention,” said Obama for America National Co-Chair Federico Peña. “We are delighted that these community credentials are being allocated to the state. It will allow Oregonians of all parties who want to take a look and listen to our message of hope the chance to do so in person.”

Due to the limited number of credentials, Obama for Oregon and the Campaign for Change will be conducting a drawing to distribute available credentials to Oregonians who register between August 6th and August 12th by visiting any one of the Campaign for Change offices across the state or by calling the Oregon Campaign for Change headquarters at 503-236-2008. For more information or for office locations please visit OR.barackobama.com.

Walk-in and telephone entries will be taken from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm daily, between the 6th and 12th of August. No entries will be taken after 9:00 pm on Tuesday, August 12th. For entry into the drawing, all callers must answer questions on how they logistically plan to get to Denver. Requests will then be entered into the drawing for distribution of credentials.

On Wednesday, August 13th, the Oregon Campaign for Change will notify individuals via phone that they have been selected to receive community credentials. Individuals who are not selected for credentials will remain on a waiting list in case slots become available. The Campaign for Change will set up distribution centers across Oregon for community credential pick-up.

Sahar Wali
Oregon Communications Director
Obama for America

New TV Ad on Obama's New Energy Plan for America

John Griswold — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:59:08 EDT

Obama's comprehensive New Energy for America plan will:

-Provide short‐term relief to American families facing pain at the pump
-Help create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.
-Within 10 years save more oil than we currently import from the Middle East and Venezuela combined.
-Put 1 million Plug‐In Hybrid cars - cars that can get up to 150 miles per gallon - on the road by 2015, cars that we will work to make sure are built here in America.
-Ensure 10 percent of our electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
-Implement an economy‐wide cap‐and‐trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.

Find out more about Senator Obama's New Energy for America plan here .

The Campaign for Change Opens its Doors in Oregon City

John Griswold — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 20:32:46 EDT

Last Thursday, July 24th, Oregon City welcomed the Campaign for Change to town. While Organizers and Fellows have been working with the local communities for several weeks, Thursday marked the grand opening. Clackamas Country has a warm spot in its heart for Senator Obama, and the office was brimming with energy as community members enjoyed lively conversation, delicious food, and took pictures with a special guest Senator.

Local Democratic leaders Jill Thorn and Cindi Lewis-Wolfram gave supporters impassioned speeches about how Clackamas county was going to help Barack Obama win in Oregon, and make sure he's sitting in the White House in 2009. State Director Rob Hill said a few words to the crowd as well, thanking them for their support and asking for their help in the days between now and November 4th.

This Monday is Barack's 47th birthday. Monday also means there wil be exactly three months until Election Day. This weekend, you can give Barack a gift he'll always remember: your time, energy, and passion by attending a Campaign for Change event and growing our movement. Find an event in your area by clicking here . If you can't make it this weekend, don't worry: volunteer opportunities are going on daily across Oregon. Click here to find an office near you, and bring change to your community.

NE Portland Campaign for Change Office Opens With Style

John Griswold — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 03:21:21 EDT

Last Thursday, the place to be in N/NE Portland was 1516 NE Killingsworth St. That's the location of the new Campaign for Change office, and several hundred supporters turned up for BBQ, community, and to share their passion for Senator Obama and bringing Change to Oregon.

The crowd listened as special guests Shirley Minor and Jeff Merkley laid out the course for how supporters can help both campaigns in the coming months. The crowd took their words to heart and, in addition to consuming over 70lbs of ribs (served up courtesy of Master Chef Mr. LC Oddie), supporters old and new signed up for over 250 new volunteer shifts. Can you find a few hours between now and November 4th to help bring Change to your community ? Thanks to Scott Batchelar and Ethan Jewett for the great photos.

Did you know it's Barack's Birthday this Monday, August 4th? Click here to give him a gift. It doesn't cost a dime. And click here to find a Campaign for Change office in your community.

Beaverton and the Campaign For Change

John Griswold — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:10:37 EDT

Last Thursday, Beaverton welcomed the Campaign for Change to Washington county with the official office opening potluck. Over 300 supporters stopped by to take part in the festivities and find out how they could help bring real change to their community and make Barack Obama the next President of the United States. Field Organizers Caleb Hayes and Alejandro Hoekstra have been hard at work engaging with the community in voter registration drives for several weeks, and the opening part gave supporters a chance to hear how the Campaign is active in Washington county and across Oregon.

Supporter Astrid Harmon describes the event: "People from all backgrounds came to celebrate and over 100 signed up to volunteer. The excitement and enthusiasm even translated to the street, where hundreds of cars honked and gave a thumbs up to the Obama volunteers waving signs."

The crowd listened as special guests State Senator Suzanne Bonamici and State Representative Larry Galizio spoke.

Change cannot happen without you. Voter Registration efforts will continue through the summer, and Barack needs you to lend a hand. Sign up here to volunteer in Oregon, and click here to find an office near you. Interested in an internship? Click here .

Eugene is Fired Up and Ready for Change

John Griswold — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 19:37:02 EDT
Last Thursday, Campaign for Change offices opened their doors across Oregon. Amongst the five new Campaign offices that hosted potlucks that day was Eugene’s own.

Staff, Fellows, and volunteers welcomed over 500 supporters into the space at 150 West Broadway . The festivities showed the sort of energy and community that Obama supporters across Oregon bring to this Campaign for Change, the sort of energy that will undoubtedly continue all the way up to November 4th.

Local supporters came and shared in the potluck, and listened to special guests State Senator Floyd Prozanski and Susan Castillo, State Superintendent of Public Instructions. The event was capped off when supporters were invited to dip their hands in white paint and make their mark on the Hope Wall. This personalized touch symbolized how the Campaign for Change is a part of supporters, and they a part of it. These dedicated volunteers are what makes this Campaign unique, and their work, and the work of folks across Oregon, is the instrument that will bring Change to Washington.

Change cannot happen without you: sign up here to help out in Oregon. Click here to find an office near you, and become a part of the Campaign for Change. Click here for more photos.

Introducing Neighbor to Neighbor

John Griswold — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 20:54:14 EDT
In keeping with the theme of empowering and including people across the United States, Barack Obama’s Campaign for Change in Oregon is about to introduce a revolutionary new tool to the supporters and grassroots activists across the state.

It’s called Neighbor to Neighbor, or “N2N”, and it is just what it sounds like: a tool for supporters to reach out to their neighbors with Barack Obama’s message of change. The N2N program allows anyone with internet access and a will to contact people in their immediate community to get out and knocking on doors the very day they signup. And because nobody knows your neighborhood better than you, who better to contact the people who make up your community?

Canvassing has been proven to be the most effective way of contacting voters. What is going to be a more compelling contact for the average person: an email or phonecall from a source you might not know be familiar with, or having a smiling face that you may recognize at your door, a volunteer taking time out of their lives to talk to you about a cause they believe in? Neighbor-to-Neighbor has the potential to bring this level of familiarity in organizing to communities, this shared and intimate knowledge of an area on the smallest and most distinct level, on a scale that has never been seen before.

Getting started is simple; just signup at My.BarackObama.com, or click on the Neighbor-to-Neighbor link featured at the top of the Oregon page, OR.BarackObama.com. From there, interested parties will be given a brief video tutorial on canvassing, instruction on how to use the N2N tool, and how to report the results of their work. First time users can be out knocking doors and interacting with their neighbors within an hour. And, because N2N users have the convenience of making their own, personal canvassing packets at their fingertips, you can decide when you have the time to go canvassing. Sharing your enthusiasm for Barack Obama’s Campaign for Change has never been simpler.

Grand Opening of the Campaign for Change in Oregon

John Griswold — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:06:17 EDT

Last Sunday the Obama “Campaign for Change” headquarters in Portland held its grand opening and supporters turned out en masse to sign up to volunteer and meet their local staff and fellow Obama supporters.

Oregonians filled several conference tables with freshly prepared dishes for the introductory potluck, and enjoyed conversation with Obama for America and Merkley for U.S. Senate supporters of all stripes. You can see more pictures of the event here.

Multnomah county Field Organizer Erin Devaney spoke first to the crowd, sharing her personal campaign story, and asked everyone to find a few extra hours in their lives between now and November 4th to spend for change -- an hour canvassing , an hour phonebanking , an hour registering voters -- and to inscribe that commitment on yellow notes that were circulated around the room.

Former Oregon governor Barbara Roberts, the special guest of the evening, took the microphone to a resounding ovation. Roberts asked the crowd not to find themselves wishing they could have done more on November 5th.

Barbara Roberts implored supporters and volunteers to give their all in the coming months to assure Barack Obama is elected the next President of the United States.

Reach out and become a part of this historical movement here , and those who have so graciously dedicated their time in the past can help in these final months here . More offices will be opening in towns across across Oregon soon, and dedicated supporters continue to reach out to their communities and organize events through the MyBarackObama tool.

Do you have pictures or stories about events or volunteer activities in your area? Share them with us here .

Fourth of July in Oregon

John Griswold — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:33:52 EDT

People from across Oregon came out to celebrate our nation's Independence Day, and Obama supporters were out in droves. They marched in parades from Ashland to Astoria, attending backyard BBQs in Portland and Corvallis, and continued voter registration drives all across the state.

One supporter and veteran marched in an Ashland Parade alongside veterans of the Korean, Vietnam, and Iraq wars, as well as civilians. Thanks, Jay, for the pictures! And thank you to the men and women who serve and who have served to keep America free!

Do you have photos from your Fourth of July Obama event you'd like to share? Send them our way!

Voter registration efforts will continue throughout the fall. Sign up to help today

Obama Fellows: "These are folks with a sense of mission and purpose"

Christopher Hass — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:59:50 EDT

With the general election just over four months away, staff and volunteers across the country are preparing for a true 50 state campaign. Last week, 3600 newly trained Obama Organizing Fellows were deployed to nearly two dozen states. On Tuesday, eleven Fellows arrived at the Jackson County Democratic Headquarters in Oregon. Local Blue Oregon blogger Paulie Brading was on hand to welcome them:

The Jackson County Democratic joint is jumping!
The NYC Obama field representative in charge of his flock is fresh off a tour of duty in Iraq. We met a college student from Boston College, a journalist from Virginia, a retired teacher from CA, students from AZ, VA, CA and an ER doc.

... They are here to register new voters, hold house parties, and to build an even bigger group of Obama volunteers before they leave in six weeks.

We oriented the Obama fellows by providing thumbnail sketches of our precincts, voting behavior, number of volunteers already in the data bank, and our outreach to the newly registered 7,500+ Democrats in Jackson County. The fellows were challenged to make Jackson County majority BLUE. We are only 3% points away from making certain that Jackson County is no longer regarded as a Republican stronghold. Then we handed over the keys to the front and back door to the field representative.

These are not giddy volunteers for Obama enjoying an excellent adventure far from their homes ... These are folks with a sense of mission and purpose. Yesterday, after driving from Portland they began phone banking and attended an organizational meeting for Veterans for Obama in the evening arranged by the Jackson County Democrats. Just another 12 hour day one volunteer told me.
For now, the Fellows will be focused on helping supporters organize June 28th Unite For Change events and voter registration. But as Blue Oregon alluded to, the long-term goal of the Fellows program is to help grow our pool of volunteers even larger for the work ahead. We need volunteers with all different skills and backgrounds in every corner of the country. No matter where you are, you can sign up to volunteer now, and you'll be contacted as needs arise in your community.

Networks Declare Obama Winner in Oregon

Anthony from Portland, OR — Tue, 20 May 2008 23:14:28 EDT
Thank you Oregon! Although polls just "closed" around the state -- and many ballots have yet to be counted -- Barack Obama has been declared the winner of the Democratic primary in Oregon. Check CNN for county-by-county results as they become available.

It is also clear that Sen. Obama has taken an absolute majority of the pledged delegates in the nomination battle tonight. This crucial milestone brings us one step closer to winning the Democratic nomination.

We couldn't have accomplished this victory in Oregon without you. From our dedicated volunteers to the thousands of Oregonians who stood up at events and rallies across the state demanding change, this victory is truly yours. Thank you very much for your support!

Video: Our Largest Rally Ever

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 20 May 2008 11:04:15 EDT

Take a look at this video of the historic event last week in Portland...
If you're inspired by this crowd -- if you're moved by the sight of this movement -- take action now and get out the vote in Oregon and Kentucky...

Video: Barack Obama in Portland, OR

Greg Hauenstein — Mon, 19 May 2008 14:31:40 EDT

What more needs to be said about yesterday's rally? One in fifty Oregonians crowded the lawn and surrounding streets of Waterfront Park. We've shown you pictures, news clippings and headlines, now we bring you our video of the afternoon's event. Enjoy:
Ballots are due in less than 33 hours and there are still lots of undecided voters out there. Help us out by calling your fellow Oregonians and letting them know that Obama is the best candidate to bring change to Washington, D.C.!

Canvass Today in Oregon

HQ Update — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:40:34 EDT

Across the state, Oregonians have organized canvassing efforts leading up to tomorrow's primary. Follow the links below for details about how to join a meeting near you.
Washington County - Portland HQ (4pm)
Yamhil County (5pm)
NW International Hostel, Portland (5pm)
Medford (5pm)
Eugene (5pm)
Let's get out the vote! Yes, we can!

'Portland Wows Obama'

Christopher Hass — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:20:42 EDT

Here's what the people of Portland saw when they picked up the paper this morning:
Tomorrow is the deadline for Oregon voters to turn in their ballots. All ballots must be delivered to a County Elections Office or an official drop location by 8:00 PM on Tuesday. Right now, grassroots phonebankers across the country are calling Oregon voters to let supporters know how and where to turn in their ballots.
After yesterday, there's no question that Oregon is fired up and ready for change. Over the next 24 hours, you can help make sure that every Oregon voter has a chance to take part in this historic moment . . .

More Scenes from Portland

Christopher Hass — Sun, 18 May 2008 23:24:20 EDT

From the Baltimore Sun:
The crowd covers the lawn here at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, from the streetside entry gates down to the Willamette River. Portland fire officials estimate 60,000 people are packed inside the park proper and another 10-15,000 are watching outside the gates. Spectators are lining the bridge behind Obama and watching, bikini-clad, from boats on the river.

... At one point, someone in the crowd shouted an expression of love at Obama. He broke his speech for a moment: "I love you too," he said.

"If you vote for me on Tuesday," he said, "We won't just win Oregon. We'll win this nomination, we'll win this general election. And you and I together, we'll change this country, we'll change the world."
Seventy-five thousand people seemed to like the sound of that.

Portland Rally: "Wow, wow, wow"

Christopher Hass — Sun, 18 May 2008 21:07:30 EDT

More from Portland, via the Associated Press:
Under skies that obligingly turned from habitual gray to clear blue, Democratic presidential front-runner Barack Obama on Sunday drew the largest crowd of his 15-month marathon campaign for the presidency.
Sixty-thousand people packed into a park alongside the banks of the Willamette River to listen to Obama, with another 15,000 left standing outside the gates, according to city fire officials. Hundreds more anchored their motorboats, or floated in kayaks and canoes.
... Even after months on the trail, Obama seemed slightly stunned by the size of the crowd, saying "Wow, wow, wow" as he surveyed the audience.
"We have had a lot of rallies," he said. "This is the most spectacular setting, the most spectacular crowd we have had this entire campaign."
In August of 2004, then-Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry held a large rally in the same location, drawing about 45,000 people.
But on Sunday, Obama topped that without even being the official nominee, speaking to a crowd filled with sunscreen-smeared babies in sun hats, union members in matching T-shirts, elderly ladies fanning themselves under the hot sun and twenty-somethings dancing to his opening act, the Portland-based band The Decemberists.
Some voters lined up before dawn to see him, including Michelle Kay.
"We are all so sick of Bush, his lies, the war," she said. "When Obama came out he was so honest, so refreshing."
Others arrived at the last minute, such as Afang Tang-Christianson of Beaverton and her husband Daniel. She is due to give birth to twins in the next week or two, and the two had spent the morning at the hospital when she began feeling early contractions.
But after leaving, she said they came straight to the rally, adding, "It's all about a new beginning, a new start. We are really hoping for change in Washington."

Largest Crowd Yet: 75,000 Rally in Portland

Christopher Hass — Sun, 18 May 2008 18:32:06 EDT

For hours now, we've been seeing stories about the huge lines for today's outdoor rally at Waterfront Park in Portland, Oregon. It's now been confirmed that the actual crowd on hand topped 75,000 people (60,000 inside the gates of Waterfront Park, with another 15,000 outside). Here is what the largest crowd yet of this Presidential campaign looks like:
UPDATED: From the Washington Post:
The sea of heads stretches for half a mile along the grassy embankment, while others watch from kayaks and power boats bobbing on the Willamette River. More hug the rails of the steel bridge that stretches across the water and crowds are even watching from jetties on the opposite shore.
Over the past fifteen months, you've helped us build an incredible movement unlike anything that has ever been seen before. But this is only the beginning. We still have a long road ahead and much work to do, but you can contribute now to help us seize this moment, and continue this momentum, all the way to November.

Video: Barack's Social Security Plan

Christopher Hass — Sun, 18 May 2008 16:24:53 EDT

Earlier today at a town hall meeting for senior citizens in Gresham, Oregon, Barack outlined his plan for Social Security:

You can watch more videos and highlights at YouTube.com/BarackObama.

Barack Obama: "This is a defining moment"

Christopher Hass — Sun, 18 May 2008 13:56:10 EDT

With the state's primary just a few days away, the Oregon Statesman Journal invited the Democratic presidential candidates to submit guest opinions answering this question: "What is your plan for Oregon? In other words, why should Oregon Democrats pick you as the best candidate for president and what would your nomination mean to Oregon?"
This morning's edition of the paper included Barack Obama's response:

This is a defining moment. At a time when our nation is at war and our American dream is slipping away, we cannot settle for the status quo. In this election, Oregon can stand for change.

I've spent more than two decades working for change from the bottom up. I fought for jobs as an organizer in Chicago when the local steel plant closed. I stood up as a civil-rights lawyer for people who were denied opportunity. I helped expand health care to hundreds of thousands and gave a tax cut to working people in Illinois. I opposed this war in Iraq from the beginning, and when I got to Washington I stood up to the special interests to help pass the most far-reaching lobbying reform since Watergate.

I chose to run for president because I believe that the size of our challenges had outgrown the capacity of our broken politics to solve them. We cannot afford four more years of the same divisive fights in Washington that are more about scoring points than solving problems. We're not going to make progress if we continue to have a system driven by special interests.

We need to restore fairness to our economy. When I'm president, we'll give a tax cut to 1.8 million hardworking Oregonians and help struggling families keep their homes. We'll ensure that the 615,000 Oregonians who currently lack health insurance are covered and cut the cost of a typical family's premiums by as much as $2,500 per year. We'll create a $4,000 annual tax credit to help Oregon students cope with tuitions that have increased 27.5 percent since 1999.

And we'll turn the page on more than two decades of trade and economic policies that have favored Wall Street over Main Street. It's time to stop giving tax breaks to companies that ship jobs overseas and start giving them to companies that create jobs here at home.

Oregon has been a national leader in energy independence, passing a renewable portfolio standard, auto-emissions rules and incentives for biofuels development. I will build on Oregon's successes to move America on the path to a cleaner environment. I will devote $150 billion over 10 years to move us toward energy independence and invest in the green energy jobs of the future.

Oregon deserves a president who understands the unique environmental challenges facing the state. That's why I will develop a meaningful plan to restore decimated salmon stocks with the advice of all stakeholders, including fishers, farmers, tribes, environmentalists and foresters. That's why I will ensure that Oregonians have a say about whether and where we place onshore liquefied natural gas facilities in the state.

That's why I support county timber payments and will work with the Oregon congressional delegation to find a comprehensive, long-term solution that will provide Oregon communities the resources they need to invest in a strong education system and create a sustainable economy. And that's why I will work with Oregonians to develop a common-sense plan to conserve Oregon's woodlands.

Oregon knows we need less tough talk and more sound judgment on national security. When I am president, I will end a war in Iraq that I opposed from the start, give our troops and military families the support they have earned, and finish the fight in Afghanistan.

With a father from Kenya and a mother from Kansas, I know that my story is only possible in America. My family didn't have much when I was growing up, but they gave me love, a good education and hope — hope that in this country, no dream is beyond our grasp if we reach for it, and fight for it, and work for it. And the reason I'm running for president is to put the American dream within reach for every family in Oregon and in this country.

- Barack Obama
The Oregon primary is conducted entirely through mail-in ballot, and although it is now too late to mail ballots, many supporters may not realize that they can still turn their ballots at their county elections office or designated drop sites. Right now, grassroots phonebankers across the country are calling Oregon supporters to let them know how to find their ballot drop off locations, and how they too can be part of this historic, defining moment.

Canvass Weekend Has Begun!

Greg Hauenstein — Sat, 17 May 2008 17:30:28 EDT

The big push is on! Volunteers crowded into our Portland office and offices around the state to kick off the final weekend of canvassing before the Oregon Primary.
It's a beautiful day to canvass and we need your help, so stop by one of our local offices. The only way to win the Oregon Primary is by getting ballots turned in. Find out where you can turn them in using our lookup tool.
Many of our brothers and sisters from the United Food and Commercial Workers and Service Employees International Union were present. They understand that the best way to bring about change is by banding together and convincing those around you that the way things are, aren't the way things need to be.
Take action today. If you're in Oregon, you can stop by your nearest campaign office and grab a walk packet or two. And now matter where you are, you can make calls to voters in Oregon and help supporters find their Ballot Drop location today. It only takes a minute to get started, and the Oregon calling campaign runs until 9:00 PM Pacific Time.

Oregon's Time is Now!

Greg Hauenstein — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:49:04 EDT
Good morning, Oregon! The temperature in Portland today is expected to be in the upper 90's and I attribute that to all of Oregon getting fired up about this weekend! Senator Obama will be joining us in Rosenburg on Saturday morning, and Sunday brings him to Portland and Pendleton. Details of the events are right above the blog. If you live in these areas, tell all your undecided friends, family, and neighbors to join you there.

Tomorrow morning begins our last big weekend canvass. It's our last chance to make sure people are turning their ballots in. We have several resources available to help everyone cast their ballots.

The deadline to mail in your ballot has passed. If you need to know where to bring your ballot, use our lookup tool.
Sign up for a canvass shift. Now that your ballot is in, make sure everyone in your neighborhood has theirs in as well.
If you're on a college campus, feel free to use our Yes We Van! service. This shuttle will take you from campus to your ballot drop location.
Check out my.barackobama.com. There are always events going on in your community, organized by your neighbors, and many this weekend have to do with ballot collection.

If we do the hard work that Senator Obama needs us to do this weekend, we could deliver enough delegates to give him the pledged delegate majority on Tuesday night. If that happens, you can be assured that this weekend will not be the last Oregon has seen of Barack Obama.

Here's a video of Barack's last swing through the Beaver State.

Message from Barack: Where we stand in Oregon

Christopher Hass — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:47:33 EDT

I'm headed back to Oregon this weekend, and I wanted to take a moment to let you know where we stand in this race.
As I've traveled across Oregon, I've spoken to veterans, students, and hard-working families about the challenges middle-class America is facing — and about how we're going to start solving them.
I've seen the excitement on the ground, and I truly believe Oregon is ready to stand up for a different kind of politics — but only if you take ownership of this effort.
This weekend — and especially Monday and Tuesday — supporters across the state are going door-to-door to make sure as many people as possible turn in their ballots by the May 20th deadline.
It's not too late to get involved — even if you've never participated in politics before. Sign up to help Get Out The Vote in Oregon.
I don't need to tell you how many people are paying attention to this primary.
They know how far we've traveled together, but they want to know when we'll close out this race, secure the nomination, and finally bring about the change our country so desperately needs.
We can bring jobs back to communities across the country, reduce the price of gas, and put an end to the war in Iraq — but we need to finish strong in Oregon.
In these next four days.
Sign up to Get Out The Vote before May 20th.
Let's go change America.
Barack

Dulé Hill and Max Kennedy at PSU

Greg Hauenstein — Thu, 15 May 2008 20:40:57 EDT

Few people in this country have more campaign experience than Max Kennedy. He was just three years old when his father, Robert Kennedy, ran for President. Yesterday at Portland State University he joined actor Dulé Hill, best known for playing the role of Charles Young on this blogger's favorite show, The West Wing.

An overflow crowd of students and others gathered in the Smith Memorial Student Union to hear Dulé and Max say why they support Senator Obama for President. Here's a video:

Max Kennedy knows what it takes to win an election. There are now less than six days to turn in your ballots for Barack Obama and to get your neighbors and friends to do the same. Sign up for a canvassing shift today you'll be able to say you helped change this county.

The Boys of Bend

Greg Hauenstein — Wed, 14 May 2008 17:22:37 EDT

This past weekend Senator Obama wrapped up his trip through Oregon in Bend. The residents were more than excited to see a leading Presidential candidate in their area for the first time in twenty years. Even more exciting is the chance for Oregon to make history next week. With enough hard work over the next seven days, Oregon can put Senator Obama over the finish line and give him enough delegates to clinch the pledged delegate majority!

In attendance at the town hall were Larry, Wayne, David, and Jim, all from Central Oregon. They stopped by our office in Bend after the event and discussed why they feel Senator Obama is the candidate to bring real change to Washington D.C.

We're one week away from the voting deadline! We'll win in Oregon the same way we won around the country: knocking on doors, making phone calls, talking with our neighbors, friends, and family about Senator Obama's vision of unity and his plan to turn this country around.

Pre-Canvass Fire Up!

Greg Hauenstein — Sun, 11 May 2008 21:10:26 EDT

From everyone here at Oregon HQ, Happy Mothers Day!

Today throughout the state, Oregon for Obama hosted "Mommas for Obama" canvasses. Here in Portland, Obama’s Mommas and their families were treated to canvass kick off speeches by former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts and former Mississippi Governor Ray Mabus. Volunteers, organizers, and their families all came out on this holiday to continue to spread Barack’s message of change and unity, by pounding the pavement and going door to door in their communities.

Here's a video of the Governors addressing the crowd at our Portland office.

Next weekend starts our last big Get Out the Vote push. This primary could be decided right here in Oregon, so sign up here to help your friends and neighbors push Senator Obama over the top and change Washington D.C.!

Video from the University of Oregon

Greg Hauenstein — Sat, 10 May 2008 23:54:25 EDT

Earlier today we brought you some great photos from last night's rally at the University of Oregon in Eugene. Over 8,000 people came out on a gorgeous night to hear Senator Obama's plan to change our country.
Senator Obama highlighted the differences between his plans for the future and Senator McCain's. Here's a video:

Rally in Eugene, Oregon

Christopher Hass — Sat, 10 May 2008 11:40:33 EDT

Last night, a crowd of over 8,000 people gathered at the University of Oregon in Eugene to see Barack speak:

Congressman Peter DeFazio (D-OR) Endorses Obama

Greg Hauenstein — Fri, 09 May 2008 11:43:27 EDT

What better time to roll out a couple more endorsements than as we welcome Senator Obama back to the Beaver State!
WASHINGTON (AP) - The movement of Democratic superdelegates to presidential hopeful Barack Obama gained steam Friday, with endorsements expected from two more congressmen.

Obama spokesman Dan Pfeiffer said the Illinois senator plans to receive the endorsement of Rep. Peter DeFazio of Oregon an event Friday in his homestate. Oregon holds it's primary on May 20.

While polling in the Oregon has been sparse, Obama is believed to hold a significant advantage over New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. With DeFazio, he will have the endorsement of three of the state's four Democratic House members. Reps. Earl Blumenauer and David Wu earlier endorsed Obama, while Gov. Ted Kulongoski and Rep. Darlene Hooley have endorsed Clinton.

In New Jersey, Donald Payne—a black congressman who had been backing Clinton for the nomination—is switching his support to Obama, Pfeiffer confirmed.

Clinton won the New Jersey primary on Feb. 5.

"After careful consideration, I have reached the conclusion that Barack Obama can best bring about the change that our country so desperately wants and needs," Payne told The Star-Ledger in Newark, N.J. It was "one of the most difficult decisions I have made," Payne said. "I've really been mulling it over for quite a while."

Obama's endorsements from superdelegates has picked sharply since Tuesday, when he soundly defeated Clinton in North Carolina's primary and held her to a narrow victory in Indiana.
Encourage any undecided friends and family members to attend one of our events today or tomorrow! Details are on our Oregon homepage.

What a night!

Greg Hauenstein — Wed, 07 May 2008 02:24:58 EDT

With a commanding victory in North Carolina and a very very very close contest in Indiana, our supporters in both of those states as well as all Americans who want to put an end to the divisive politics of the the past should be proud.

Our work is not done, Oregon! There are doors to knock and minds to inspire. Tonight gives you a strong argument for why Senator Obama is the best candidate in this race. The talking heads said Barack Obama would get crushed in Indiana because of an alleged problem with working class voters. But the reality is that Obama erased Clinton’s big lead in Indiana precisely by connecting with working people. They know that his plans for a middle class tax cut and affordable universal health care are what is going to help them most and they were not fooled by the McCain-Clinton gas tax “holiday” gimmick.

Here are the best ways to help:
If you haven't voted, vote! Find your ballot drop location.
Become an Oregon Community Organizer. These organizers are the backbone of our campaign.
Host a volunteer. We have great volunteers who make the drive or flight to Oregon from other states and they need a place to sleep.
If we put our nose to the grindstone these next 2 weeks, we'll make history here in Oregon.

In case anyone missed it, here's Senator Obama's victory speech from Raleigh, NC tonight.

Taking the High Road in Oregon

Anthony from Portland, OR — Tue, 06 May 2008 14:30:20 EDT
Steve Duin of the Oregonian boiled down the state of the Democratic primary in an eye-opening editorial today. Artfully titled "The high road: Better view, fewer options," Duin makes the case for one candidate in this race -- the one who's staying above the kitchen-sink fray, drawing new voters into the process, and promising the kind of bold change Oregonians demand.

From today's piece:

Among the more meaningful choices Oregon voters will make this month is whether to reward Barack Obama for his restraint or Hillary Clinton for her ruinous campaigning in the Democratic primary.

If the Iranians think Clinton is kidding about "total obliteration," they need only track the routine nastiness of this happy warrior in recent months. She is energized by the aroma of scorched earth, and her passion for the negative is only heightened by the smug certainty that Obama won't answer her in kind...

But Obama has suggested he's better than such exhumations, and that we are, too. He wants to believe there's more of a future in inspiring and uniting voters than in demeaning opponents. And he understands that by following Clinton down the low and divisive road, he will not only lose his advantage in the primary but sacrifice the trust of the new and idealistic voters he's recruited into the Democratic fold...

Obama has promised "a new kind of politics" . . . and has campaigned with a degree of sincerity, honesty and thoughtful introspection I've never seen in a presidential candidate. I don't know if the combination will bring him victories in Tuesday's primaries, but I trust that Oregon voters -- in what DeFazio calls "the first relevant primary we've had in 24 years" -- will reward him in spectacular and gratifying fashion.

Balloting in Oregon's primary began last weekend and lasts through May 20th, exactly two weeks from today. With Oregon playing such a vital role in the nominating process this year, why not get involved with the campaign and help put the politics of personal destruction behind us for good?

Oregon and the Gas Tax

Anthony from Portland, OR — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:44:43 EDT
It's brought up every four years. Suspending the gas tax to give families relief at the pump. It sounds good on its face, but when you get into the details, this is a band-aid on a broken leg.

Sen. Obama knows we need relief from the tyranny of foreign oil. The price of oil hit $120 a barrel today. Americans have never paid more for gas and the demand for gas has never been higher. Family budgets are being stretched every time the family car goes empty.

The gas tax holiday is not the answer. In the end you'll have saved half a gas tank's worth of money and that's if the oil companies don't raise their prices in compensation for the drop. The money from the gas tax goes into the Federal Highway Trust Fund and this tax holiday would drain money from there, putting in jeopardy not only roads and bridges in need of repair, but the good paying jobs that go along with them.

Sen. Obama knows the only way we'll pay less at the pump is if we use less. He has proposed raising fuel efficiency standards on cars, invest in alternative fuels like cellulosic ethanol, and refit our buildings to become more energy efficient. In short, there are many reasons why the recent gas-tax suspension plan floated around by Senators John McCain and Hillary Clinton is wrong for Oregon.

So what does the Oregon press think about this supposed gas-tax holiday?

The Bend Bulletin weighed in:

Leonard Burman, a Brookings Institution economist interviewed by The Washington Post, calls the Hillary plan "utterly incoherent." Windfall taxes of the sort she proposes, he points out, reduce oil company income. What do oil companies do with all of this income? They typically use a good chunk of it to locate and develop new sources of oil. Grabbing profits, then, ultimately reduces oil supplies, which in turn raises prices, exacerbating the very problem panderers like Clinton and McCain claim to be addressing. (LINK)

So sayeth the Eugene Register-Guard:

Both Sen. John McCain and Sen. Hillary Clinton have embraced a gas tax holiday in a transparent attempt to pander to voters. Sen. Barack Obama opposes the idea. On this issue, only one presidential candidate has shown he believes Americans' votes can't be bought cheaply and that citizens have the sense to understand where the nation's interests lie. (LINK)

And what do bicycle-friendly Portlanders think of the idea? The Oregonian was not impressed:

Campaigning in North Carolina Saturday, Hillary Clinton said her disagreement with Barack Obama on the viability of the "gas tax holiday" is "part of a larger difference between us." And that's true. Clinton will embrace anything and pander to anyone to get elected. (LINK)

...and...

Sen. John McCain's idea to give Americans a summer holiday from federal gas taxes is about as weighty as a Barbie Dream Car, yet he can't stop driving it into the ground. Neither can Sen. Hillary Clinton. The two presidential contenders can't resist the chance to pander to voters and, as a bonus, paint Sen. Barack Obama as an elitist. By doing so, they're missing an opportunity to show leadership on some major long-term challenges -- such as updating the nation's crowded roads and aging bridges...

This is an election-year sop, not a plan for the future. Yet the millionaire senator and presumptive Republican nominee has stuck with it, using it as shorthand to call Obama -- who opposes the tax holiday -- out of touch with ordinary Americans. (LINK)

Sen. Obama has shown true leadership on this issue by not pandering with facile soundbites and instead presenting the truth to Oregonians and the American people -- that reducing our dependence on foreign oil will require drastic steps and not quick fixes. Barack's environmental plan contains a whole host of measures aimed at developing renewable sources of energy as well as providing tax breaks to middle-class Americans.

Canvassing with Eve in Portland

Greg Hauenstein — Sun, 04 May 2008 14:27:12 EDT

They're the folks who make shoe leather stocks rise every four years. Knuckles tender from knocking and voices raspy from the repeated pitch, they are the true leaders of this campaign. They are our Oregon Community Organizers.

Their mission is to build a team of their neighbors to maximize the vote for Senator Obama in their community. It is only with the dedication and perseverance of our volunteer leaders that this campaign has the strength it has. Now that ballots are beginning to arrive in the mail, it is more important than ever that we speak to people where they are and tell them why we believe Senator Obama is the best candidate to bring real change to Washington.

Eve is one of our Oregon Community Organizers in Portland. As often as they can, her and her family hit the streets and bring new supporters into the fold. We followed Eve around yesterday as she made her rounds.

Becoming an Oregon Community Organizer is easy, and it's only through their hard work that this campaign will win the Oregon Primary and give this movement a head start for the fall. Sign up today!

Another Endorsement as Ballots Go Out

Anthony from Portland, OR — Sat, 03 May 2008 15:39:22 EDT
The East Oregonian joined several other newspapers in Oregon yesterday by endorsing Barack Obama in the presidential primary. They mentioned, in part:

Barack Obama is the face of the future for America - and Oregon.

He also is our unanimous choice for the Democratic presidential nominee. This from an editorial board that include Democrats, Republicans and Independents, as well as conservatives and liberals.

Why?

First and foremost, Obama brings inspiration for our state, our nation and our Earth. Inspiration has not been a part of America's political scene since John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy. It could not have come at a better time.

In order to capitalize on our growing grassroots movement in the state, supporters fanned out across Oregon to begin our Get-Out-the-Vote canvassing this morning. Ballots started arriving by mail to voters in Oregon yesterday, and they can be returned anytime up until 8pm on May 20th. (Special note: Secretary of State Bill Bradbury announced that some voters who switched parties may get a ballot reflecting their previous party affiliation; these people will also receive a new Democratic ballot in a few days, but should contact their local county elections office if it does not come by May 10th.)

Throughout our 15 offices statewide, hundreds of volunteers stopped by today to help in the effort. A loyal team of AFSCME members -- who broke from their national union to endorse Sen. Obama -- met in our Portland headquarters to once again demonstrate why they feel he is the strongest candidate for working-class people by spreading his message of change door-to-door. And as we like to say in Oregon, the election started yesterday -- so get those ballots in quick!

Mission Not Accomplished

Anthony from Portland, OR — Thu, 01 May 2008 20:12:36 EDT

It was five years ago today that President Bush declared major combat operations in Iraq over in his infamous "Mission Accomplished" aircraft-carrier appearance. In order to demonstrate how little has actually been accomplished since, the Obama campaign held simultaneous press conferences today in five cities across Oregon with guest speakers discussing the misdirected priorities of the Bush Administration and reinforcing Sen. Obama's positions on the issues that matter most to Oregonians.
A gathering at the Salem VFW addressed how our continued troop presence in Iraq has diverted attention from veterans' issues back home. Similar sentiments were echoed in Bend, Eugene, and Medford press conferences, with the environment also ranking as a top priority being dangerously overlooked with our current spending priorities.
In Portland, a panel that included former Pennsylvania Sen. Harris Wofford, state legislators Mary Nolan and Ben Westlund, Vietnam Green Beret Jim Rassman, and Woodburn Mayor Kathy Figley touched upon the enormous fiscal cost of the Iraq War -- and how billions of dollars spent overseas could have been used to fund underserved public schools or insure the thousands of Oregon children without health care. Wofford cited Obama's commitment to bringing together coalitions to solve these problems -- and not just issuing compacts and plans -- as the reason why he strongly backs the Senator.
Here's a video from the event in Portland:

Canvass in Oregon

Christopher Hass — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:32:41 EDT
It was an exciting weekend for our campaign in Oregon, as supporters gathered at nearly 100 house parties across the state to register new Democrats and build our movement here.
Folks like you have registered thousands of voters over the past few weeks -- but this is only the beginning of our organizing efforts here.

Now that the registration deadline has passed, we need to reach out to voters old and new and make sure as many people as possible vote for Barack by May 20th.

Supporters across the state are canvassing their communities this weekend, so sign up to join us now.

Because of the vote-by-mail primary rules here in Oregon, we have an amazing chance to have an impact by going door-to-door and talking to our neighbors.

In the coming days, all registered Democrats will receive their ballots in the mail, and we'll be able to reach out to them and encourage them to vote for Barack right away.

Ballots are being mailed as early as this Friday, so we need to use this weekend to build excitement for Barack on the ground.

Will you take the next step for Barack by canvassing this Saturday or Sunday?

Thank you for all that you do.

Rob

Rob Hill
Oregon State Director
Obama for America

Hoops for Change

Anthony from Portland, OR — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:57:57 EDT
Before a North Portland crowd of volunteers, local activists, and basketball fans last night, the campaign held an exciting Hoops for Change event featuring some of the biggest names in Oregon sports.

Craig Robinson, Oregon State's new men's basketball coach (who also happens to be Barack's brother-in-law), refereed a 3-on-3 game with some young Obama supporters who had collected voter registration forms over the weekend. Participants were picked after answering a couple of Craig's Obama-centric trivia questions, such as "What state does Barack represent in the Senate?" and "On which island did he spend his childhood?"

Coaching the opposing teams were Portland Trail Blazers Channing Frye and James Jones, taking some time away from the Rose Garden to lend a hand in Barack's campaign for change. KXL "voice of the Trail Blazers" (and former Blazer himself) Antonio Harvey did some hilarious play-by-play at the event.
Frye's team came up short both times, but there was little disappointment among the 100 or so fans who showed up for a good time and a good cause. Of course, pictures and autographs were part of the post-game package.

Earlier in the day, "Fresh Prince of Bel Air" actress and Yes We Can star Tatyana Ali made a string of campus appearances for Obama at colleges around the state. Hitting UofO and OSU, she wrapped up the day at Portland State University on the eve of the voter registration deadline. She encouraged students to make their voices heard in the process, and to support Sen. Obama in the May primary.
Ali cited Obama's message of hope and change for getting her first involved with the campaign. She also discussed how having a leader who is able to "cross so many lines and divides" to inspire the American people is absolutely critical in our next president. The voter registration period ends Tuesday, April 29th, and ballots are due by May 20th.

The Oregonian: Obama best on gas taxes

Sam Graham-Felsen — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:58:22 EDT

The Oregonian:
What a gas -- [McCain and Clinton] can't resist the chance to pander to voters and, as a bonus, paint Sen. Barack Obama as an elitist…
This is an election-year sop, not a plan for the future…
We agree with Obama on this issue. He calls it a short-term fix that benefits oil companies rather than consumers, and says it creates the illusion of leadership without actual change. But we also expect more from McCain, an independent thinker who rarely resorts to such political gimmicks.
Most of all, voters deserve better. They deserve candidates who will concede that the federal gas tax hasn't budged for 15 years -- and that the nation's roads, bridges and railways are suffering as a result. They need candidates who will look beyond the nation's borders and address the falling dollar and the global demand for oil, two factors that are far more powerful than an 18-cent tax.
In other words, voters need candidates who will acknowledge what's at stake after the next election -- and the next summer vacation.
For more on Obama's energy policy, click here.

Last Day to Register in Oregon

Christopher Hass — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:16:23 EDT

Today is a crucial deadline in Oregon — it's the last day to register in order to vote for Barack in the May 20th primary.
There's still time to register, but you must act now.
You have to be registered as a Democrat to vote for Barack in the primary. If you're not yet registered, take some time this morning or during lunch and register as a Democrat.
You may need to re-register even if you've voted in the past. You should re-register if:
Your residence address or mailing address has changed, because a ballot will be sent to the address where you are registered;
You are not registered as a Democrat and need to change your political party affiliation; or
You have not voted for five years or more.
If you haven't downloaded a registration form, do so right away. Make sure to drop off your form today at your county clerk's office or an official ballot drop site. Find your county clerk's office here.
If you're already registered, make a difference today by making sure that all of your friends and family members supporting Barack are registered.
You can use our online form to get in touch with your friends and family now, and remind them that today is the deadline to register to vote for Barack in Oregon.

Oregon Voter Registration: "There's no time to procrastinate"

Christopher Hass — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:41:02 EDT

From today's Oregon Statesman Journal:
This year's battle-to-the-finish Democratic presidential primary has encouraged a rush of Oregon voter registrations. That's great.

You can't make your voice heard unless you vote, and you can't vote unless you register. Tuesday — tomorrow — is the deadline to do that for the May 20 primary.

This deadline affects mainly first-time Oregon voters, people who haven't voted in the past five years and registered voters who are changing their political party affiliation. People who have moved within Oregon may have more time, but they should call their county elections office to be sure.

Registration forms are readily available on the Internet, at Driver and Motor Vehicle Services offices and at county courthouses, among other places. But there's no time to procrastinate.
Over the weekend, a number of grassroots supporters helped canvass Oregon neighborhoods to register new voters, and there is still time to help out by calling Oregon residents and encouraging them to register before tomorrow's deadline.
If you live in Oregon, here's what you need to know about tomorrow's deadline and the upcoming primary:
All elections in Oregon are Vote by Mail. Ballots must be received by May 20th. To vote for Barack you must be:
Registered as a Democrat by April 29th
At least 18 years old on or before May 20, 2008
A resident of Oregon
You should re-register if:
1) Your residence address or mailing address has changed, because a ballot will be sent to the address where you are registered.
2) You are not registered as a Democrat and need to change your political party affiliation.
3) You have not voted for five years or more.

For more information, visit the Oregon Secretary of State's website or stop by the Oregon for Obama field office closest to you.

On the Ground: Canvassing in Oregon

Christopher Hass — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 19:35:29 EDT

While most of the attention of late has been on Indiana and North Carolina, grassroots supporters are hard at work throughout the remaining states as well. Earlier today, Ryan from Salem, Oregon wrote about his experience helping register voters:
Today I canvassed for Barack Obama. Michelle, Josh and I went door to door registering people to vote. The Oregon primary registration is two days away (Apr 29). We successfully registered or changed registrations for six people. One we switched from Republican to Democrat to vote for Barack and another we changed from Independent/Unaffiliated to Democrat to vote for Barack. In another case we recruited a volunteer to badger some young movers to register Democrat. We got their registrations also.
I am invigorated reconnecting others to vote and making a difference. By canvassing, I take ownership of Barack's campaign. I am a part of the movement for change. I am no longer sitting on my couch waiting for events to unfold. I am making it happen and together we can effect change. Yes we can!
The deadline to register to vote in Oregon is this Tuesday. If you live in Oregon, there is still time to download your registration form. And if like Ryan, you too are tired of sitting on the sidelines, you can sign up to become a Community Organizer and help lead our grassroots efforts in Oregon.
Countless supporters have given their time and labor to canvass communities across America over the past few months, and many of you have shared your experiences in the Community Blogs. If you've written about your experience (or would like to now), post a link to your blog in the comments below. We'll highlight some of the best stories throughout the coming week here on the HQ blog, as we count down to the May 6th primaries in Indiana and North Carolina.

Blumenauer Responds

Anthony from Portland, OR — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 16:28:31 EDT
U.S. Congressman and superdelegate Earl Blumenauer stopped by our Oregon headquarters this morning to deliver a rousing speech to the hundred volunteers who'd gathered for a voter registration canvass.

Blumenauer was flanked by a Bend Bulletin article from last week which profiled the Oregon-specific positions of Sens. Obama and Clinton on the environment and rural communities. However Blumenauer emphasized that what Oregonians need is not another 13-page document, but the ability to bring people together to produce the kind of change Americans need -- such as bringing the war to a close and providing much-needed education and health-care reforms.

"Senator Obama is the only candidate in this race who doesn't take money from special interest PACs," Blumenauer also stressed, explaining how a president beholden to lobbyists will never be able to change corrupt Washington ways. "The issue is who is going to finally kick the special interests out of Washington D.C. to get it done."

With the Oregon registration deadline quickly approaching -- this Tuesday the 29th is the last day to register or switch parties to become a Democrat -- Blumenauer urged the assembled activists and volunteers to reach out to as many potential voters as possible in advance of the May 20th primary.

Last week, Blumenauer was joined by fellow Oregon Congressman David Wu as superdelegates pledging their support for Sen. Obama at the Democratic convention.

In other news, the Oregon AFSCME group is hard at work here for Sen. Obama. Having broken from the national union to endorse Obama, executive director Ken Allen and his fellow AFSCME members have been working overtime to get-out-the-vote among their 20,000-plus team statewide. The endorsement -- and hard work of the local AFSCME folks -- reiterates how strong Sen. Obama is on the issues that matter most to organized labor. "Our members are proud that Oregon AFSCME speaks with an independent voice, and are working hard everyday to change Washington by electing Barack Obama president," remarked Allen recently.