We wanted to remind everyone that there are three days left in the Iowa Call Challenge! Start making calls right now and get a chance to meet Barack or Joe-- the top five callers through Saturday will get this amazing opportunity!
Check out the clips from this morning's newspapers-- and then start making calls right now!
Culver campaigns for Obama in DavenportIowa Gov. Chet Culver zeroed in Wednesday on John McCain’s opposition to ethanol subsidies as part of a critique of the Republican presidential candidate’s economic agenda at a campaign stop in Davenport. Culver, a Democrat, said Iowa’s economy is outperforming the country’s in large part because the federal government has stimulated growth in the biofuels industry. “The only reason our bio-economy is booming, certainly one of the reasons, is because of that very progressive federal policy,” he said. The governor was joined by two aides to Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama’s campaign at a forum sponsored by DavenportOne. “This is a choice for what is good for Iowa,” Culver said, also criticizing the Republican presidential nominee for opposing the 2007 Farm Bill. Obama aides also tried to drill home the idea the Democrat’s tax plan would help middle income families more than McCain’s. Obama’s plan would cut taxes for families making between about $37,000 and $66,000 by $1,042, according to the non-partisan Tax Policy Center. McCain’s plan would cut taxes for that family by $319, the center says.Warnstadt: McCain doesn't support wind, ethanolState Sen. Steve Warnstadt, D-Sioux City, wants Iowans to imagine what the state would be like without wind farms and ethanol plants. Warnstadt said that's what Iowa would be like if Sen. John McCain, the Republican presidential candidate, had gotten his way during the 26 years he served in the U.S. Congress. "He (McCain) has consistently opposed any ethanol incentives and mandates, which have been responsible for 47,000 Iowa jobs in the ethanol industry," Warnstadt said during a Wednesday press conference ahead of a McCain visit to Iowa today. "He has voted against the renewable tax credits, which the utility industry says is critical for them to be able to put up wind turbines. So, frankly his voting record is one that has been very much against renewables, both ethanol and wind. I think that's bad for Iowa and I think that's bad for the country." He said it's critical to provide people with the additional money to help pay for gas, but at the same time take a look at energy options that are available to us right now.
Culver campaigns for Obama in Davenport
Iowa Gov. Chet Culver zeroed in Wednesday on John McCain’s opposition to ethanol subsidies as part of a critique of the Republican presidential candidate’s economic agenda at a campaign stop in Davenport. Culver, a Democrat, said Iowa’s economy is outperforming the country’s in large part because the federal government has stimulated growth in the biofuels industry. “The only reason our bio-economy is booming, certainly one of the reasons, is because of that very progressive federal policy,” he said. The governor was joined by two aides to Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama’s campaign at a forum sponsored by DavenportOne. “This is a choice for what is good for Iowa,” Culver said, also criticizing the Republican presidential nominee for opposing the 2007 Farm Bill. Obama aides also tried to drill home the idea the Democrat’s tax plan would help middle income families more than McCain’s. Obama’s plan would cut taxes for families making between about $37,000 and $66,000 by $1,042, according to the non-partisan Tax Policy Center. McCain’s plan would cut taxes for that family by $319, the center says.
Warnstadt: McCain doesn't support wind, ethanol
State Sen. Steve Warnstadt, D-Sioux City, wants Iowans to imagine what the state would be like without wind farms and ethanol plants. Warnstadt said that's what Iowa would be like if Sen. John McCain, the Republican presidential candidate, had gotten his way during the 26 years he served in the U.S. Congress. "He (McCain) has consistently opposed any ethanol incentives and mandates, which have been responsible for 47,000 Iowa jobs in the ethanol industry," Warnstadt said during a Wednesday press conference ahead of a McCain visit to Iowa today. "He has voted against the renewable tax credits, which the utility industry says is critical for them to be able to put up wind turbines. So, frankly his voting record is one that has been very much against renewables, both ethanol and wind. I think that's bad for Iowa and I think that's bad for the country." He said it's critical to provide people with the additional money to help pay for gas, but at the same time take a look at energy options that are available to us right now.
http://www.barackobama360.blogspot.com/Obama plays down controversy over Berlin speech ... Obama, a first term Illinois senator, is planning a trip to Europe and the Mideast this summer to bolster his foreign policy credentials -- one of the strong ... Jul 13, 2008Germany denies Bush thwarted Obama speech ... on Friday that Washington had put any pressure on Chancellor Angela Merkel to block a proposed speech by US presidential candidate Barack Obama in Berlin in ... Jul 11, 2008Berlin mayor slams Merkel over Obama stance BERLIN - Berlin's mayor said on Thursday he would be pleased if US presidential candidate Barack Obama spoke at the Brandenburg Gate and sharply criticized ... Jul 10, 2008Obama and McCain debate ways to deal with Iran ... come if they change course," Obama said. Arizona Sen. McCain said he believes the governments of France, Britain, Germany and others in Europe are prepared to ... Jul 10, 2008Obama says sanctions for Iran while McCain says shield ... who has called Obama's willingness to meet with US foes such as Iran naive, said the Iranian tests proved the need for a missile-defense shield in Europe. ... Jul 10, 2008Possible Obama visit to Berlin divides German government ... be a remarkable gesture if a US presidential candidate were to visit Europe and make ... centre-left SPD, made it clear he would welcome a visit by Obama to Berlin ... Jul 09, 2008Obama, McCain debate ways to deal with Iran ... come if they change course," Obama said. Arizona Sen. McCain said he believes the governments of France, Britain, Germany and others in Europe are prepared to ... Jul 09, 2008Obama watching Bush closely in WTO talks: aide WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama wants a successful end to long-running world trade talks, but will closely review any deal reached ... Jul 09, 2008Obama watching Bush closely in WTO talks: aide WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama wants a successful end to longrunning world trade talks, but will closely review any deal reached ... Jul 09, 2008Obama calls Iran "threat," says tighten pressure WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama on Wednesday said Iran is a "great threat" and called for tighter sanctions after it test-fired ... Jul 09, 2008< Previous | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Next >
Obama tours downtown Rapid City after speaking to 3,000 supporters The Democratic presidential frontrunner held a town hall meeting at the Central States Fairground, did interviews with local reporters and then headed downtown, where he toured Prairie Edge and The Firehouse before departing. Obama said some people have asked why he is running for president so early in his political career and at a relatively young age; he turns 47 on Aug. 4. He quoted Dr. Martin Luther King, saying he couldn’t walk away from “the fiery urgency of now.
“There’s such a thing as being too late,” Obama said. “That hour of change is upon us.”
… There is also a dire need to improve education, alter No Child Left Behind and pay teachers more, Obama said. He also called for community service programs to help young people pay for college. “We’ll invest in them, they’ll invest in America and together we’ll move the country forward,” Obama said. He said people are tired of politics as usual in Washington, D.C., of spin and public relations. “We can’t afford to wait,” Obama said to loud cheers. “They want truth and facts and honesty from their elected officials.”
Obama talks U.S. trade
Following the speech, Obama said he was interested in cracking down on unfair trade practices that hurt the US...and Country of Origin Meat Labeling is an important part of that. I think it's important to have country of origin labeling so Americans can make a decision about what they want, coming from ranches in South Dakota or they ship it in from thousands of miles away, that's also part of our overall trade policy I want to implement when I'm president.
Ida Fast Wolf opens for Obama
The opening speaker at today's Obama Rally was 8th grade teacher Ida Fast Wolf. She explained she has to give up her job at Porcupine School due to gas prices. I drive an hour and 45 minutes each way everyday, but because my heart was in my classroom, and with my students, the drive was worth it, but because gas prices are skyrocketing toward the end of the school year, I was paying almost $170.00 per week in gas, I cannot afford to do that anymore. So now I'm going to start looking for another place to teach, closer to home, but my goal is still to go back on the Pine Ridge. Obama's said today his solution for gas prices is to invest billions in alternative fuels like wind and bio-fuels. To get the money for that, he proposes charging polluters a fee per pollution unit. He says that system worked in the past in the effort to reduce acid rain and it is cheaper than people think.
Candidate with bold idea
Every four years, we hear bold, sweeping ideas from presidential candidates, and then nothing changes. However, this year, one candidate is offering "change we can believe in." The difference between Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John McCain and any other candidate in recent history is that Obama knows that change must start from the bottom up. He is not promising that he alone can make the changes necessary to get our country back on track. He is telling Americans that we must make changes. Making citizens accountable for their own actions is the boldest idea I have ever heard from a presidential candidate. Let's do something very bold, and send the new guy to Washington. The experienced ones we keep sending aren't taking care of business. Let's vote for Obama on June 3, and then make South Dakota blue in November.
Obama audience will call shots
Aberdeen's audience will be able to largely direct Sen. Barack Obama's town hall meeting today, a spokesman said. "The theme will depend on where folks take it," said Matthew Lehrich, Obama campaign spokesman. Obama is scheduled to speak at 5:30 p.m. today at the Aberdeen Civic Arena. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. He will make opening remarks, then take questions from the audience, Lehrich said. A limited number of tickets will be available beginning at 9 a.m. today at Obama's Aberdeen office, 13 Second Ave. S.E. Around 2,500 seats could be available in the Civic Arena. The Civic Arena holds 3,200 seats when it's configured for basketball; however, only about half of the bleacher seating on the main floor will be used for the event. …. "You know that this is a significant event in history," he said. "That's kind of cool."
Obama ‘Right For The Time,’ Supporters Say
Former Missouri Sen. Jean Carnahan and former Mississippi Gov. Ray Mabus were in town as part of their “Change is Coming” tour across eastern South Dakota to support Obama. Both are advisers to his campaign.
… “We’ve got a long history of talking to our foes and people we disagree with, using some tough diplomacy, to get what we need to advance American interests,” Mabus said. “Not talking to people — the Bush and McCain plan — just hasn’t worked. At least Obama says he will do that. I think you can make some progress there, particularly if you don’t do it alone. “The most important thing we can do is get out of Iraq and end the war that is not making us any safer and we shouldn’t have gotten into in the first place,” he added. “Obama has been the only candidate who has a very consistent position, saying we need to get out of this war and who has set forth a timetable for getting out.”
I attended an event at the local Obama campaign office today that featured George McGovern. He told a story about an election in the 1940s, shortly after he had returned from World War II. A Democrat named Fred Nichol was running for the office of Davison County state's attorney. McGovern and his wife, Eleanor, were preoccupied with setting up their new lives together and weren't planning to vote. Then they received a call from Nichol. He volunteered to pick up the McGoverns and drive them to the polling place so they could vote for him. They did, and as McGovern remembered it, Nichol won by a single vote. I dug through our archives to verify the story. The year was 1946, and Nichol did indeed win, though the unofficial results quoted in The Daily Republic's coverage said the margin was two votes. Whatever the actual margin, the point remains: In an election, every single vote counts. Nichol, by the way, went on to become a circuit court judge, a state legislator and a federal judge. Had he taken even two votes for granted back in 1946, he might never have attained those other offices.
I have supported Barack Obama for quite a while now and for many reasons:
Electability: I think Obama can unite the country behind him and beat John McCain by a percentage large enough to really make the country feel united.
Grace under pressure: I've watched Obama deal with the issues, setbacks and flash points of campaigning with consistent intelligence, courtesy and, above all, honesty.
Honesty: Whether dealing with inane notions such as a vacation from the gas tax (37 cents a day in exchange for no repairs to our infrastructure for a year) or the facts of race in America, Obama has told the truth. Talk about refreshing and desperately needed. I urge everyone to consider voting for Obama June 3. But no matter what, vote.
Or you can vote early today…
Absentee Option Convenient For Voters
Ada Fravel's schedule forced her to vote early in the upcoming primary. “I'm coming in today because I'm going to be gone on Election Day, so I want to make sure my vote counts,” says Fravel. But South Dakotans don't need an excuse to cast an absentee ballot. Any voter who is registered to a party can vote before the primary, by mail or in person. So far in Minnehaha County 2,300 people have requested to vote absentee. County auditor Sue Roust says she's surprised by how many of those are from one party. “One interesting thing is that two thirds are from Democrats and only one third are from Republicans. Usually it's much more balanced.” Roust says the Democratic ticket is very competitive between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Since South Dakota is one of the last primaries, she knows the nation will be paying close attention.
Sen. Christopher Dodd campaigns in Huron for Obama, calls him ‘right candidate for America’ No matter whether they live in Connecticut or South Dakota, Americans want the same things, he said. “And we deserve political leadership that reflects that common interest and that common sense of purpose, and we haven’t had it,” he said. “We’ve had political leadership determined to divide us as a people and not unite us as a people,” he said. No matter their viewpoint, Obama will invite everyone to be part of the solution to massive problems, such as health care, gas prices, mortgage foreclosures and a crippling national debt that is greater than the debt accumulated during all 42 of the previous presidential administrations combined, Dodd said. A knock on Obama is his lack of experience, but Dodd said character, judgment and decency are important, too. “You can gain experience,” he said. “I don’t think you can gain temperament, judgment, character. I think you either have it or you don’t, and Barack Obama’s got it.”
Obama talks guns, faith and alternative energy
“South Dakota, like the rest of the country, is deeply concerned about the rising cost of gas prices and health care,” he said. “We’ve put forward a plan on each of these areas.” He said he was an agent for change in Washington and that would include assisting rural and agricultural areas. Obama said his administration would treat “family farmers and family ranchers with the help and respect they deserve.” He said he supported country of origin labels, would work to make health care more available in rural areas and was a booster of wind energy and biofuels. “The key to rebuilding rural communities is economic development,” Obama said, as well as keeping young people in the state and in smaller towns. In Many of his positions echo the words of former South Dakota senator Tom Daschle, an early Obama supporter and a national co-chairman of his campaign.
Obama brings national security panel to Rapid City
Roemer will bring his experience as a member of the 9-11 Commission, officially named the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States to a panel that will also include Denis McDonough and Susan Rice. McDonough is a senior foreign policy advisor to Obama and past staffer for the U.S. House International Relations Committee who once worked as an aide to former South Dakota Sen. Tom Daschle. Rice worked as an assistant secretary of state in the Bill Clinton administration. In a town hall-style meeting, the three will discuss Obama's foreign policy plans and policies to reduce the risk of terrorist attacks while pursuing members of the al Qaida terrorist organization, rebuilding international relations and addressing global poverty. Roember, who served 12 years in the U.S. House of Representatives from the 3rd Congressional District in Indiana, is now president of the Center for National Policy, a Washington, D.C., think tank. Roemer said those who criticism Obama for not being tough enough on national-security or terrorism issues don't understand the depth of his intelligence or resolve. Obama will be tough when necessary to protect the United States and its interests, but he will also be measured and thoughtful in his approach to foreign relations and security, Roemer said.
Obama supporters host Family Fun Day in RC
Barack Obama supporters gathered at Memorial Park in Rapid City Sunday for a family fun day in the park. The weather cooperated and supporters were able to enjoy hotdogs, bratwurst, potato salad and much more. Today's family activity was a chance for Obama campaign leaders to inform the community about the Illinois Senator's platforms. Ida Fast Wolf says, "A lot of kids here. It's important in our culture also to have our kids. You know you think they're too young to understand but they're a part of the process; because that's why we're here -- for our future. And I think Senator Barack Obama believes in that also. And that's important to us." Following the cookout, campaign volunteers put on their walking shoes and went door-to-door canvassing for Obama votes.
Former Mississippi Governor Ray Mabus to Tour South Dakota for Obama
Stops scheduled in Madison, Watertown and Brookings Wednesday; on Thursday, Mabus to be joined by former U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan for visits to Lennox, Beresford, Yankton, and Vermillion
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Obama supporter and former Mississippi Gov. Ray Mabus will speak at events across eastern South Dakota this Wednesday and Thursday as part of the Obama campaign's "Change is Coming" community conversations. On Wednesday, Mabus will visit Madison, Watertown and Brookings. On Thursday, he will be accompanied by former Missouri U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan at stops in Lennox, Beresford, Yankton, and Vermillion. The events will offer South Dakotans the opportunity to continue their dialogue with the Obama campaign about the issues impacting them most, and learn about Senator Obama's plans to provide affordable health care to every American, fix our struggling schools, and end the costly war in Iraq.
The town hall-style events are free and open to the public.
Click here for more information
WASHINGTON - A group of prominent South Dakota women announced Wednesday they will encourage women across the state to vote for Illinois Sen. Barack Obama in the June 3 Democratic presidential primary. South Dakota Women for Obama will make phone calls, send e-mails, knock on doors and host house meetings to talk about Obama and why they support him in the primary and November's general election if he becomes the Democratic nominee. The group is being led by Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin, D-S.D., who said Obama was raised by a single mother with the help of a grandmother, who worked hard to keep the family afloat.
"As a father working with his wife, Michelle, to raise their two young daughters, he understands how important it is to build a better future for all women," Herseth Sandlin said. "As president, Barack Obama will work to make life better for women."
… Ann McGovern, daughter of former South Dakota senator and presidential candidate George McGovern, said she supports Obama because he opposed the Iraq War before the invasion. Clinton supported going to war.
"I'm the mother of three sons and now the grandmother of three grandsons, and I grew up in a household where my father was in politics from the time I was a young girl," McGovern said. "I very strongly support him for his approach to diplomatic solutions to world problems."
Obama campaign to host Family Fun Days
This weekend, U.S. Sen. Barack Obama's campaign will host 14 family barbeques throughout South Dakota to rally the campaign's supporters before they hit the streets to go door to door for Obama.
The events will also encourage participants to vote early and provide information about the process. Organizers say undecided voters are encouraged to attend to find out more about Obama's plans to bring people together to deliver universal health care, lower gas prices and end the Iraq war.
Obama office opens in Spearfish
t's the location of one of six new Sen. Barack Obama campaign offices that were opened in South Dakota last weekend. The South Dakota Democratic primary will be held June 3 and Obama supporters are working to gain each and every vote. Volunteers in the Northern Hills spent the better part of last Saturday moving desks, laptop computers and telephones into the backside of a residence located at 240 Kansas St., in Spearfish. “We want area residents to know where Senator Obama stands on issues that affect them,” said Matt Lehrich, Obama's South Dakota campaign spokesperson. “We have about three weeks until the election and we are going to be very busy in the Black Hills.”
Whether it's making phone calls, staffing booths or going door to door, Lehrich said Obama supporters in Spearfish are up to the challenge.
Senator Barack Obama's campaign is announcing the opening of two more office locations in South Dakota. That means Obama will have eleven offices statewide. A grand opening is planned for 7:30 tonight at the new Huron office location, while similar plans for the new Madison office are to be determined. Over the weekend, Obama's campaign announced additional campaign offices would open in Brookings, Mitchell, Spearfish, Pierre, Watertown and Yankton. He already has offices in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen and Rapid City.
Click here to find an office near you.
Kennedy stumps for Obama, fires back at Bush, McCainEthel, Max Kennedy re-connect with West River, Native voters.Ethel and Max Kennedy brought a mix of the old and new of American politics to western South Dakota on Friday in support of Barack Obama.The 80-year-old widow of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy and the ninth of their 11 children are reaching across generational lines to connect what they call the inspired Democratic politics of the 1960s with the energy of the Obama campaign today. Max Kennedy, 43, spoke to about 100 people at The Journey Museum, telling them that older Democrats say Obama inspires them in ways they haven't experienced since his father campaigned. "They told me that they loved him. And so I understood that happened. But I never felt anything like that for a politician until I began to see Sen. Barack Obama," Kennedy said. "And I am so grateful for my generation to have a candidate who inspires us in that way. "His candidacy has become a movement. And it's a movement for our generation to unify this nation and come together again."Undecided Voters Swayed By SpeechAbout 7,000 people packed the Sioux Falls arena Friday to see democratic presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama, and his speech may have swayed some of the undecided voters in the crowd. Bernie Larsen was one of several people who came to see Senator Obama without knowing whether she would back Barack or Senator Hillary Clinton."You'll hear it," Larsen said before the speech. "I'll know what I hear tonight, and I'll know if he's the guy or not."University of Sioux Falls student Jon Bohlen took time to see Senator Clinton speak last week before turning out to see Obama, yet, before the speech, he told us he wasn't even sure he'd vote democrat.…"He's going to bring wind energy to South Dakota, get corn energy, Biofuels..." Bohlen said after the speech. "Yeah, I did like that a lot.""It feels good just to hear somebody offering all that, and you have hope in somebody like him." Larsen said. "And that's what I think I feel."Both Larsen and Bohlen said the speech also helped them make up their minds."He really was a positive influence," Bohen said afterward. "I think I really will cast (a vote) for Barack.""Yeah, I'm going to vote for him," Larsen said.
Ethel and Max Kennedy brought a mix of the old and new of American politics to western South Dakota on Friday in support of Barack Obama.
The 80-year-old widow of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy and the ninth of their 11 children are reaching across generational lines to connect what they call the inspired Democratic politics of the 1960s with the energy of the Obama campaign today. Max Kennedy, 43, spoke to about 100 people at The Journey Museum, telling them that older Democrats say Obama inspires them in ways they haven't experienced since his father campaigned. "They told me that they loved him. And so I understood that happened. But I never felt anything like that for a politician until I began to see Sen. Barack Obama," Kennedy said. "And I am so grateful for my generation to have a candidate who inspires us in that way. "His candidacy has become a movement. And it's a movement for our generation to unify this nation and come together again."
About 7,000 people packed the Sioux Falls arena Friday to see democratic presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama, and his speech may have swayed some of the undecided voters in the crowd. Bernie Larsen was one of several people who came to see Senator Obama without knowing whether she would back Barack or Senator Hillary Clinton.
"You'll hear it," Larsen said before the speech. "I'll know what I hear tonight, and I'll know if he's the guy or not."
University of Sioux Falls student Jon Bohlen took time to see Senator Clinton speak last week before turning out to see Obama, yet, before the speech, he told us he wasn't even sure he'd vote democrat.
…
"He's going to bring wind energy to South Dakota, get corn energy, Biofuels..." Bohlen said after the speech. "Yeah, I did like that a lot."
"It feels good just to hear somebody offering all that, and you have hope in somebody like him." Larsen said. "And that's what I think I feel."
Both Larsen and Bohlen said the speech also helped them make up their minds.
"He really was a positive influence," Bohen said afterward. "I think I really will cast (a vote) for Barack."
"Yeah, I'm going to vote for him," Larsen said.
Obama campaign reaches out to rural South DakotaTwo former state agriculture leaders made a pitch to rural South Dakota on Monday for presidential hopeful Barack Obama, touting farm-policy initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster assistance, helping beginning farmers and boosting alternative fuel supplies.…Obama’s campaign previously released a list of 25 current Democratic state lawmakers – a number of them farmers - who were endorsing him. In a conference call Monday, Dallas Tonsager and Dennis Wiese, both former presidents of the South Dakota Farmers Union, said Obama was the best choice for South Dakota farmers and ranchers. Wiese said he was impressed that Obama based his rural agenda on personal meetings with farmers and ranchers, rather than Washington lobbyists. Wiese and Tonsager agreed that Obama’s strong support for permanent disaster assistance was essential to farmers and ranchers who are often damaged by drought, flood, blizzards and hail. “I think disaster is always an issue in South Dakota,” Tonsager said. Grain and livestock prices have been at profitable levels in South Dakota in recent years. But Tonsager said farm markets are subject to dramatic swings, and farm programs should be designed to cushion farmers when the prices fall, he said.Mitchell headquarters set up for presidential hopeful ObamaA sure sign of South Dakota’s upcoming primary has arrived in Mitchell, where members of Sen. Barack Obama’s presidential campaign have set up shop on the corner of Fourth and Main.…The campaign, which also has established offices in Sioux Falls, Rapid City and Aberdeen, will hold an organizational meeting at 6:30 p.m. today at the Mitchell office in an attempt to recruit volunteers for Obama’s presidential run.Lehrich said the campaign doesn’t have a specific number of volunteers they’re hoping to recruit, but is confident interest will grow. Wednesday, volunteers already were preparing to canvass door to door across the city.
Two former state agriculture leaders made a pitch to rural South Dakota on Monday for presidential hopeful Barack Obama, touting farm-policy initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster assistance, helping beginning farmers and boosting alternative fuel supplies.
Obama’s campaign previously released a list of 25 current Democratic state lawmakers – a number of them farmers - who were endorsing him. In a conference call Monday, Dallas Tonsager and Dennis Wiese, both former presidents of the South Dakota Farmers Union, said Obama was the best choice for South Dakota farmers and ranchers. Wiese said he was impressed that Obama based his rural agenda on personal meetings with farmers and ranchers, rather than Washington lobbyists. Wiese and Tonsager agreed that Obama’s strong support for permanent disaster assistance was essential to farmers and ranchers who are often damaged by drought, flood, blizzards and hail. “I think disaster is always an issue in South Dakota,” Tonsager said. Grain and livestock prices have been at profitable levels in South Dakota in recent years. But Tonsager said farm markets are subject to dramatic swings, and farm programs should be designed to cushion farmers when the prices fall, he said.
Mitchell headquarters set up for presidential hopeful Obama
A sure sign of South Dakota’s upcoming primary has arrived in Mitchell, where members of Sen. Barack Obama’s presidential campaign have set up shop on the corner of Fourth and Main.
The campaign, which also has established offices in Sioux Falls, Rapid City and Aberdeen, will hold an organizational meeting at 6:30 p.m. today at the Mitchell office in an attempt to recruit volunteers for Obama’s presidential run.
Lehrich said the campaign doesn’t have a specific number of volunteers they’re hoping to recruit, but is confident interest will grow. Wednesday, volunteers already were preparing to canvass door to door across the city.
Time for a changeIn the Democratic primary, we recommend ObamaDo the Democrats need a restoration of the past, or is it time for a change? We think it's time for a change. We recommend a vote for Barack Obama in Tuesday's primary.Read More Last-minute surgeVoting picks up Saturday heading into primaryNEWTON -- Christiane Hicks decided to cast a ballot Saturday since she was home from college.The Newton resident and junior at Appalachian State University voted for the first time.“Voting is important because the numbers of young black people voting are not very good,” she said. “I felt like I should go.”The presidential election drew her to the polls. She voted for Democratic candidate Barack Obama.“I’m ready for some change,” she said.
Time for a change
Do the Democrats need a restoration of the past, or is it time for a change? We think it's time for a change. We recommend a vote for Barack Obama in Tuesday's primary.
Read More
Last-minute surge
Voting picks up Saturday heading into primary
NEWTON -- Christiane Hicks decided to cast a ballot Saturday since she was home from college.
The Newton resident and junior at Appalachian State University voted for the first time.
“Voting is important because the numbers of young black people voting are not very good,” she said. “I felt like I should go.”
The presidential election drew her to the polls. She voted for Democratic candidate Barack Obama.
“I’m ready for some change,” she said.
Obama stresses economy in speech
WILSON – With his jacket off and his shirt sleeves rolled up, Barack Obama asked a crowd of about 1,500 somewhat-soggy Eastern North Carolinians on Monday to believe in the potential of the middle class – and then to vote for him on May 6.
Despite heavy afternoon rains, most of those in attendance waited more than two hours outside Beddingfield High School to hear the Democratic presidential hopeful.
Taking several minutes during his speech to focus on issues faced by small towns throughout the eastern part of the state, Obama pledged to restore the U.S. economy by returning order to the job market.
"Unemployment here in Wilson is outpacing the rest of the county," Obama said after referring to a few local plants that moved overseas in recent years. "And folks here in Wilson are making about $11,000 less on average than the rest of the country. Meanwhile, gas costs $3.58."
Part of the problem, Obama said, is with leaders in Washington, D.C., who answer to special interests instead of the average U.S. resident.
Obama campaign opens office in downtown Statesville
Sen. Barack Obama’s presidential campaign opened a Statesville office Monday at 240 W. Broad St.
Early Monday afternoon, Obama staffer Jon Sylvester was showing volunteer Nancy Mason where to hang some posters as a way of sprucing up the former bar and transforming the location into something more in a “vote for me” motif.
Mason said she found out about the Obama office Saturday when an Obama volunteer called her.
“They asked who I planned to vote for and when I said Obama, they asked if I could help out down here,” she said. “So here I am.”
At UNCW, Obama promises change
U.S. Sen. Barack Obama came to Wilmington looking for votes.
But a vice president?
Obama spoke Monday to about 6,000 people who came to the University of North Carolina Wilmington’s Trask Coliseum to see the junior Illinois senator on his first campaign stop in Wilmington.
Answering questions from the audience after his speech, Obama was enamored of the enthusiasm and passion of Jean Weiss, an 82-year-old Wilmington resident.
“You captured my heart, and I said, ‘That’s the man for me, from here on out,’” Weiss told Obama
Barack Obama: Adjust tax rules, encourage savings, trim waste
Americans who work hard their entire lives have earned the right to retire with dignity and security. That's the promise that each of us wants to be realized within our own families. But Washington is not working to preserve this fundamental part of the American dream.
A secure retirement is no longer a guarantee for the middle class. It's harder to save for retirement, pensions are getting crunched, and prescription drug prices are slipping out of reach. The promise of Social Security may grow harder to keep for future generations. That's why I have proposed a comprehensive agenda for retirement security.
It starts with protecting Social Security today, tomorrow and forever. Social Security is strong, but as more baby boomers retire, the long-term cash-flow needs to be addressed. We should not raise the retirement age or cut benefits. I'm also against privatization, and stood up against President Bush's plan to create private accounts. Right now, the Social Security payroll tax only applies to the first $102,000 a worker makes. The best way forward is to adjust the cap on the payroll tax so that only the wealthiest Americans pay more and people in need are protected, and we should include a "donut hole" to ensure that lifting the payroll tax cap does not ensnare any middle-class Americans.
But it's harder for Social Security to cover a secure retirement, as seniors struggle with rising costs. That's why I've proposed eliminating all income taxes for seniors making under $50,000, including over 150,000 North Carolina seniors, saving them about $1,400 per year.
We also have to encourage savings so it's easier to retire. Today, personal saving is at an all-time low and 75 million working Americans don't have employer-based retirement plans. That's why I've proposed automatic, voluntary workplace pensions to help you reach a secure retirement. For families that make under $75,000, the federal government will match 50 percent of the first $1,000 you save.
Finally, it's time for Washington to stop protecting the interests of drug companies. The federal government should negotiate for lower drug prices, just as the VA negotiates lower prices for our veterans. .
We also need to strengthen our Medicare program, which currently serves over 1.3 million North Carolinians. We can do this by reducing waste in the Medicare system, including eliminating subsidies to the private insurance Medicare Advantage program, and tackling fundamental health care reform to lower costs and improve the quality and efficiency of our healthcare system.
Making these changes won't be easy. We'll have to come together to keep America's promise -- the promise that in this country, if you work hard you will be able to retire with the dignity and security you have earned. That's a principle worth fighting for.
N.C. stakes are high for Obama Candidate will bring his message to Smith Center
CHAPEL HILL -- Despite a 25-point lead in the polls, Barack Obama cannot take North Carolina's May 6 primary for granted, supporters and a local political scholar agreed Friday.
Obama will speak at a rally Monday night at the Smith Center, his first day back in the state since the Pennsylvania primary last week. The rally will begin at 9:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required.
North Carolina is the largest of the nine primary contests left...
Medal of Honor winner support ObamaPaul Bucha says it’s time to give another generation a chance to lead. His generation is angry, divided and “we want everything,” said Bucha, who is 55.“We started something, but what have we done? We have an economy where a dollar can’t buy a dollar. We have the highest gas prices, a recession, and we aren’t going anywhere, making anything.” It is time to elect new leaders, he said, specifically Barrack Obama. “He’s the new generation, give him a chance.”Bucha, a Medal of Honor winner, campaigned for Obama on Friday at Methodist University. About 50 people, mostly veterans, attended the event. He showed the audience his Medal of Honor, but put into his pocket during his speech, saying he did not want use the medal for political advantage. Obama visiting Port City on MondayBarack Obama will visit the Port City on Monday, part of a two-day swing through North Carolina in advance of the May 6 primary.In a town hall-style meeting, the Democratic presidential candidate will talk mainly about the economy, including his middle-class tax cut proposals, as well as pushing special interests out of Washington, D.C., campaign officials said.Doors open at 11 a.m. for Obama's meeting at Trask Coliseum, 679 Wagoner Drive, on the University of North Carolina Wilmington campus.The event is free and open to the public, however, tickets are required. Admission is based on a first come, first serve basis.Obama campaign officials announced his visit in a conference call Friday morning. He will be the first presidential candidate to campaign publicly in Wilmington leading up to the primary.
Medal of Honor winner support Obama
Paul Bucha says it’s time to give another generation a chance to lead.
His generation is angry, divided and “we want everything,” said Bucha, who is 55.
“We started something, but what have we done? We have an economy where a dollar can’t buy a dollar. We have the highest gas prices, a recession, and we aren’t going anywhere, making anything.”
It is time to elect new leaders, he said, specifically Barrack Obama.
“He’s the new generation, give him a chance.”
Bucha, a Medal of Honor winner, campaigned for Obama on Friday at Methodist University. About 50 people, mostly veterans, attended the event. He showed the audience his Medal of Honor, but put into his pocket during his speech, saying he did not want use the medal for political advantage.
Obama visiting Port City on Monday
Barack Obama will visit the Port City on Monday, part of a two-day swing through North Carolina in advance of the May 6 primary.
In a town hall-style meeting, the Democratic presidential candidate will talk mainly about the economy, including his middle-class tax cut proposals, as well as pushing special interests out of Washington, D.C., campaign officials said.
Doors open at 11 a.m. for Obama's meeting at Trask Coliseum, 679 Wagoner Drive, on the University of North Carolina Wilmington campus.
The event is free and open to the public, however, tickets are required. Admission is based on a first come, first serve basis.
Obama campaign officials announced his visit in a conference call Friday morning. He will be the first presidential candidate to campaign publicly in Wilmington leading up to the primary.
Obama to speak at Smith Center Monday
RALEIGH, NC -- Barack Obama's North Carolina campaign today announced Senator Obama will return to the Tar Heel state for a One-Stop Early Vote Rally at UNC-Chapel Hill's Dean E. Smith Center Monday night. Attendees will be encouraged to vote early either when they pick up their tickets for the event or until May 3 at a One-Stop Early Vote location in their community. The event is part of a major push by the Obama campaign to encourage North Carolinians to participate in the state's historic primary and in its first-ever One-Stop Early Vote period. From now through May 3, North Carolinians can vote early at their local county board of elections or at other designated sites. Voters who are not registered or who have never voted before may register and vote in the primary all at one time, in one place. The campaign has launched a free hotline, 1-888 NC EARLY (1-888-623-2759), which provides North Carolinians with easy, instant information on their One-Stop Early Vote locations. Callers simply dial the number and enter their zip code and are then given the location and hours of the One-Stop Early Vote location nearest them. You also have the option of getting the information via text message.
Former South Carolina governor to stump for Obama Thursday night in Gastonia
Former South Carolina Gov. Jim Hodges says he met Barack Obama the same night most of America was introduced to the junior U.S. senator from Illinois.
Obama had made a memorable speech at the 2004 Democratic convention and Hodges would be introduced to him later that night at a party.
"I remember saying, ‘One day that guy is going to be president,'" Hodges said Thursday.
Hodges, one of several national co-chairs for the Democratic presidential hopeful, will speak to Obama supporters in Gastonia 6:30 tonight at the City Club, 532 S. New Hope Road.
Medal of Honor recipient says Obama right candidate to lead young generation
A Vietnam veteran stopped in town Thursday to tell people he supports Barack Obama for president because he is honest, responsible and a member of "a young generation that is not burned out."
Paul Bucha served in the Vietnam War as captain of the 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded the Medal of Honor.
He won the medal for destroying an enemy bunker with grenades while the group of men he commanded was pinned down by machine-gun fire. He was injured by shrapnel, but saved another group of injured soldiers.
Bucha later became president of the Medal of Honor's society.
He pulled chairs around him at the Obama campaign office on Queen Street and asked people to join him for a "town-hall-like meeting."
Obama office to open Thursday in ShelbySHELBY - North Carolina may prove to be a big player in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination.Because of this, former S.C. Governor Jim Hodges and Barack Obama campaign staff will be in Shelby today to open an Obama campaign office on South Washington Street.Obama and opponent Hillary Clinton will be competing in the North Carolina Primary election on May 6.Want to go?What: Barack Obama campaign office openingWhen: Today, 5 p.m.Where: 205 S. Washington St. Obama courts Tar Heel supportBarack Obama's North Carolina momentum is mounting, with endorsements from 29 members of the General Assembly on April 22 and a standing-room-only appearance at the state fairgrounds last week."The fact that we're seeing people involved in the political process that have never been involved before—that sort of thing can be transformative," N.C. Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand said.State Senate and House members backing the Democratic presidential primary frontrunner also included eight Triangle legislators: Sens. Ellie Kinnaird (Orange), Vernon Malone (Wake) and Floyd McKissick (Durham), as well as Reps. Dan Blue, Ty Harrell and Grier Martin of Wake, Bill Faison (Orange) and Larry Hall (Durham)."We started calling around and lining up people who believed in Obama's message," said Blue, the former House speaker who co-chaired Bill Clinton's North Carolina campaigns. "We realized it was a big number of us who will do whatever it takes to help win Obama the presidency."Both Obama and rival Hillary Clinton have been campaigning heavily in North Carolina, in advance of the May 6 primary. Obama leads Clinton in the national race for delegates with 1,645 to Clinton's 1,504, according to the Associated Press. 29 N.C. lawmakers endorse ObamaRALEIGH — Democratic Sen. Barack Obama’s promise to revamp Washington politics helped convince 29 state lawmakers to join his camp Tuesday.Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand of Fayetteville and Rep. Dan Blue of Wake County, a former House speaker, said the Illinois senator has no ties to special interests and is running a positive campaign for change.Fifteen lawmakers joined Rand and Blue outside the Legislative Building to endorse Obama. An additional 12 were named in a campaign statement released later in the day. That list included Reps. Rick Glazier and Marvin Lucas, both Cumberland County Democrats.Blue said he was former President Clinton’s state campaign chairman in 1992 and 1996. But he said Obama brings more promise for change than Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, who is hoping to follow her husband.“Sen. Obama has shown a tremendous ability to bring people together around an agenda of change,” Blue said. “He’ll end the special-interest games in Washington that have been so damaging to this country.”
Obama office to open Thursday in Shelby
SHELBY - North Carolina may prove to be a big player in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination.
Because of this, former S.C. Governor Jim Hodges and Barack Obama campaign staff will be in Shelby today to open an Obama campaign office on South Washington Street.
Obama and opponent Hillary Clinton will be competing in the North Carolina Primary election on May 6.
Want to go?
What: Barack Obama campaign office opening
When: Today, 5 p.m.
Where: 205 S. Washington St.
Obama courts Tar Heel support
Barack Obama's North Carolina momentum is mounting, with endorsements from 29 members of the General Assembly on April 22 and a standing-room-only appearance at the state fairgrounds last week.
"The fact that we're seeing people involved in the political process that have never been involved before—that sort of thing can be transformative," N.C. Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand said.
State Senate and House members backing the Democratic presidential primary frontrunner also included eight Triangle legislators: Sens. Ellie Kinnaird (Orange), Vernon Malone (Wake) and Floyd McKissick (Durham), as well as Reps. Dan Blue, Ty Harrell and Grier Martin of Wake, Bill Faison (Orange) and Larry Hall (Durham).
"We started calling around and lining up people who believed in Obama's message," said Blue, the former House speaker who co-chaired Bill Clinton's North Carolina campaigns. "We realized it was a big number of us who will do whatever it takes to help win Obama the presidency."
Both Obama and rival Hillary Clinton have been campaigning heavily in North Carolina, in advance of the May 6 primary. Obama leads Clinton in the national race for delegates with 1,645 to Clinton's 1,504, according to the Associated Press.
29 N.C. lawmakers endorse Obama
RALEIGH — Democratic Sen. Barack Obama’s promise to revamp Washington politics helped convince 29 state lawmakers to join his camp Tuesday.
Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand of Fayetteville and Rep. Dan Blue of Wake County, a former House speaker, said the Illinois senator has no ties to special interests and is running a positive campaign for change.
Fifteen lawmakers joined Rand and Blue outside the Legislative Building to endorse Obama. An additional 12 were named in a campaign statement released later in the day. That list included Reps. Rick Glazier and Marvin Lucas, both Cumberland County Democrats.
Blue said he was former President Clinton’s state campaign chairman in 1992 and 1996. But he said Obama brings more promise for change than Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, who is hoping to follow her husband.
“Sen. Obama has shown a tremendous ability to bring people together around an agenda of change,” Blue said. “He’ll end the special-interest games in Washington that have been so damaging to this country.”
Obama Gains Endorsements From 29 NC LawmakersRaleigh, NC -- Barack Obama has received the endorsements of 29 North Carolina lawmakers, including Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand. Rand, former House Speaker Dan Blue and other Democratic legislators made the announcement in front of the Legislative Building on Tuesday, two weeks before the North Carolina primary election. Obama has a slight lead in delegate votes over rival Hillary Rodham Clinton in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. Rand said he chose Obama in part because the Illinois senator has brought enthusiasm to the state, attracting newcomers to the political process. Rock Show update Confirmed: Arcade Fire and Superchunk ‘Change Rocks’ early-voting rally for Barack Obama at the Town Commons, Friday afternoon, May 2 From the official press release:RALEIGH, NC – Senator Barack Obama’s campaign today announced two concerts to headline the campaign’s One-Stop Early Voting drive. Featuring Arcade Fire and Superchunk, the “Change Rocks” concerts in Carrboro and Greensboro will highlight the campaign’s effort to encourage One-Stop Early Voting at college campuses and other locations across the state.Tickets can be picked up in Forsythe, Guilford, Randolph, Almanace, Orange, Durham, and Wake Counties during early voting hours starting Thursday April 24. A list of locations is below.“This is a defining moment for this country,” said Win Butler of Arcade Fire. “We want to encourage people to get up, get out, and go vote.” Concert campaign focuses on one-stop student voting In an effort to get first-time student voters out to the polls, Barack Obama's N.C. campaign is holding two outdoor concerts to encourage one-stop voting. Tickets will be sold near one-stop voting centers for a concert by Arcade Fire and Durham band Superchunk. One of the concerts will be held at the Carrboro Town Commons on May 2 at 1 p.m. "Not only can you pick up a ticket to see a great rock and roll show, but you can cast your ballot for a one-stop early vote location," said Win Butler of Arcade Fire. Tickets are free but required and are available starting Thursday at the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Call 919-929-3460 for more information.
Obama Gains Endorsements From 29 NC Lawmakers
Raleigh, NC -- Barack Obama has received the endorsements of 29 North Carolina lawmakers, including Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand.
Rand, former House Speaker Dan Blue and other Democratic legislators made the announcement in front of the Legislative Building on Tuesday, two weeks before the North Carolina primary election.
Obama has a slight lead in delegate votes over rival Hillary Rodham Clinton in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination.
Rand said he chose Obama in part because the Illinois senator has brought enthusiasm to the state, attracting newcomers to the political process.
Rock Show update
Confirmed: Arcade Fire and Superchunk ‘Change Rocks’ early-voting rally for Barack Obama at the Town Commons, Friday afternoon, May 2 From the official press release:
RALEIGH, NC – Senator Barack Obama’s campaign today announced two concerts to headline the campaign’s One-Stop Early Voting drive. Featuring Arcade Fire and Superchunk, the “Change Rocks” concerts in Carrboro and Greensboro will highlight the campaign’s effort to encourage One-Stop Early Voting at college campuses and other locations across the state.
Tickets can be picked up in Forsythe, Guilford, Randolph, Almanace, Orange, Durham, and Wake Counties during early voting hours starting Thursday April 24. A list of locations is below.
“This is a defining moment for this country,” said Win Butler of Arcade Fire. “We want to encourage people to get up, get out, and go vote.”
Concert campaign focuses on one-stop student voting In an effort to get first-time student voters out to the polls, Barack Obama's N.C. campaign is holding two outdoor concerts to encourage one-stop voting. Tickets will be sold near one-stop voting centers for a concert by Arcade Fire and Durham band Superchunk. One of the concerts will be held at the Carrboro Town Commons on May 2 at 1 p.m. "Not only can you pick up a ticket to see a great rock and roll show, but you can cast your ballot for a one-stop early vote location," said Win Butler of Arcade Fire. Tickets are free but required and are available starting Thursday at the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Call 919-929-3460 for more information.
Obama camp has tools for one-stop voting informationThe Barack Obama campaign launched 1-888-NC EARLY, a hot line that provides North Carolinians with instant, automatic information about their counties' One-Stop Early Voting locations and hours.Voters who call the number will be asked for their ZIP code and will be given one-stop early voting locations specific to their area. They can also choose to have the information delivered via text message.Until May 3, North Carolinians can vote at their county Board of Elections office or at other designated one-stop voting locations. For the first time in state history, even those who are not registered to vote or have never voted before can easily register and vote all at once.The campaign also launched an online look-up tool that allows voters to find their voting information for one-stop voting. Conventioneers choose ObamaWatauga Democrats are leaning toward Barack Obama as the state presidential primary looms. Attendees at Saturday’s Watauga County Democratic Party convention gave 65 percent of their votes to presidential candidate Barack Obama, with rival candidate Hillary Clinton receiving just under 35 percent in the first-ever Democratic presidential straw poll. According to the count, 121 convention delegates and guests voted at the annual convention. Diane Tilson, county party chairwoman, said the party's core was energized by its local success and ready to drive the political engine beyond the county borders. “There was a great deal of enthusiasm for all the candidates,” she said.
Obama camp has tools for one-stop voting information
The Barack Obama campaign launched 1-888-NC EARLY, a hot line that provides North Carolinians with instant, automatic information about their counties' One-Stop Early Voting locations and hours.
Voters who call the number will be asked for their ZIP code and will be given one-stop early voting locations specific to their area. They can also choose to have the information delivered via text message.
Until May 3, North Carolinians can vote at their county Board of Elections office or at other designated one-stop voting locations. For the first time in state history, even those who are not registered to vote or have never voted before can easily register and vote all at once.
The campaign also launched an online look-up tool that allows voters to find their voting information for one-stop voting.
Conventioneers choose Obama
Watauga Democrats are leaning toward Barack Obama as the state presidential primary looms. Attendees at Saturday’s Watauga County Democratic Party convention gave 65 percent of their votes to presidential candidate Barack Obama, with rival candidate Hillary Clinton receiving just under 35 percent in the first-ever Democratic presidential straw poll. According to the count, 121 convention delegates and guests voted at the annual convention.
Diane Tilson, county party chairwoman, said the party's core was energized by its local success and ready to drive the political engine beyond the county borders. “There was a great deal of enthusiasm for all the candidates,” she said.
