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Democracy for America Endorses Stephen Gorham for Hillsborough County School Board
Released: August 12, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Stephen Gorham’s campaign for Hillsborough County School Board, District 7.
“Stephen Gorham has a range of experience that makes him the best choice for the School Board. Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Our public schools are a sacred trust and Stephen Gorham will work everyday to ensure our children are equipped with the skills to succeed in the 21st Century.”
Stephen Gorham and his family moved to the South Lakeland/Plant City area when he was eight years old. Upon graduating from high school, Stephen enlisted in the Florida Army National Guard. While serving as a reservist in Tallahassee, Stephen attended Florida State University.
In 1999, Stephen left College and enlisted in the US Navy. While serving in the navy Stephen earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
Stephen is currently the Director of Networking and Telecommunications and Chief Security Officer for Hillsborough Community College. Stephen is a member of the Hillsborough County School Board Citizens Advisory Committee. He is also a member of the Florida Army National Guard and Plant City Fire Rescue Reserve. Stephen is proud to claim membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Florida Association of Community Colleges.
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“I am honored to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America, an organization who understands the importance of local races and believes in the power of grassroots politics,” said Stephen Gorham. “I look forward to working with the DFA community in the upcoming weeks to bring positive change to the Hillsborough County School District and get our schools back on the right track.”
“Stephen Gorham knows our children deserve and require a safe school environment that allows them to excel and flourish,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA. “Stephen Gorham will be a progressive voice for our children with a fiscally responsible vision to increase student achievement and guarantee safe schools.”
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Democracy for America Endorses MA State Representative Carl Sciortino for Re-Election
Released: August 12, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Carl Sciortino’s re-election campaign for Massachusetts’ 34th Middlesex District.
“Carl Sciortino has been a progressive leader in the Massachusetts House of Representatives since he was first elected in 2004 and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Carl Sciortino does more than represent his constituents. He works for them, he fights for them, and he delivers for them.”
Carl Sciortino is a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He represents the 34th Middlesex district, including neighborhoods in both Somerville and Medford. Rep. Sciortino serves on the Joint Committees of Transportation, Public Health, and Community Development & Small Businesses. He was first elected in November 2004, defeating a conservative Democratic incumbent.
Prior to serving in the legislature, Rep. Sciortino worked in the public health field as a research manager at a community health center specializing in HIV/AIDS. He graduated with a degree in Biology from Tufts University. He is Vice-Chair of the Medford Democratic City Committee, a member of the Medford Ward 4 Democratic Committee, Progressive Democrats of Somerville, Mass NOW, the Sierra Club, and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force.
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
"I'm honored to receive this endorsement from Democracy for America," said Rep. Sciortino. "I applaud their commitment to supporting grassroots candidates and training local advocates to get involved in the political process. Real democracy comes from an engaged, informed electorate. I'm proud to stand with them in support of those values."
“Carl Sciortino is running a grassroots campaign that is empowering people and staying true to the fundamental idea of government of the people, for the people, and by the people,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA. “Carl Sciortino is committed to advancing a progressive agenda which values public education, encourages economic development, and supports public transportation.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Jeff Merkley for United States Senate
Released: August 12, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Jeff Merkley’s campaign to represent Oregon in the United States Senate. Jeff is running against Bush administration rubberstamper Gordon Smith.
“Jeff Merkley is a commonsense progressive with the experience, wisdom, and judgment we need in Washington,” said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. “Jeff Merkley’s record in the Oregon State House shows he can work across the partisan divide to get results that improve the lives of Oregonians. With the serious challenges we face -- from ending the War in Iraq, to providing health care to all Americans, to solving the climate crisis – Jeff Merkley is the only choice for the Senate.”
Born in the small town of Myrtle Creek, Jeff Merkley has spent his lifetime fighting for change for Oregon families. The son of a sawmill worker, he spent his early years in Roseburg, where the children of loggers and mill workers learned the value of honest work, good schools, and strong families. Jeff worked hard, earned scholarships and became the first in his family to go to college. He went on to serve as a national security analyst, first for the Pentagon and then for Congress.
Nearly two years ago, Jeff led a band of new leaders to take control of the Oregon House and end the gridlock in state government. As the first Democratic speaker in sixteen years, Merkley brought Democrats, Republicans and citizens together to make real progress addressing Oregon’s challenges.
As Speaker, Jeff helped lead the fight against special interests to make health care more affordable, clamp down on pay day loan scams, pass landmark environmental legislation, and create thousands of family-wage jobs in Oregon. Working together, Oregonians achieved results – restoring fiscal responsibility by creating the state’s first “rainy day fund,” cutting taxes for working people, and passing sweeping ethics reform to clean up government.
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“I am so honored to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America,” said House Speaker Jeff Merkley. “It’s going to take a national grassroots effort to defeat Gordon Smith in November and we are on the road to making that happen. I have spent my whole career taking on the special interests and delivering for our families, our workers, and our planet. It is time to right the wrong of George Bush and Gordon Smith and put people before the powerful special interests in Washington D.C.”
“Gordon Smith has a shameful record that only George Bush could be proud of,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director of Democracy for America. “Jeff Merkley is the whole package and the real deal. Unlike his opponent, Jeff Merkley doesn’t need to play games with voters or hide from his past. Gordon Smith can try and fool people into thinking he’s not a Republican, but folks know better.”
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DFA Endorses Sherrie Matula for Texas State Representative
Released: August 12, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Sherrie Matula’s campaign for Texas House District 129.
“Sherrie Matula is a citizen activist with the experience and knowledge we need in the Texas House of Representatives,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Sherrie Matula is an educator, former elected official, and community leader with a progressive agenda and the skills to get the job done.”
Sherrie Matula is a Texas native with decades of experience in education, children’s issues, and community leadership. She worked for over 25 years as a classroom teacher in the Clear Creek and Pasadena Independent School Districts. Sherrie was elected to two terms on the Clear Creek ISD school board, is a former board member of Texas State Teachers Association, and served as President of the Galveston County Education District.
Sherrie has spent 30 years as a citizen lobbyist in the Texas Legislature, advocating for children and schools. She is a founding board member of Clear Creek ISD’s Community in Schools, Science Magnet Program and Education Foundation. Additionally, Sherrie is the president of the Clear Lake Symphony Society and the Middlebrook Community Association.
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“It’s a huge honor to be endorsed by Democracy for America. I am running a people powered campaign, with volunteers knocking on many thousands of doors to bring our message of positive change to the House District,” said Sherrie Matula. “Like DFA, I believe government should be responsive to the needs of everyday citizens, and I look forward to providing that type of leadership to the community when I am elected.”
“Sherrie Matula is ready on day one to tackle problems like skyrocketing insurance costs and preserving the environment while protecting jobs,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA. “Sherrie Matula’s commitment to integrity means she won’t be cutting backroom deals when she works on such important issues as guaranteeing public schools receive the funding they need to give our children the education they deserve.”
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Democracy for America Endorses PA State Representative Barbara McIlvaine Smith for Re-election
Released: August 11, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Barbara McIlvaine Smith’s re-election campaign for Pennsylvania’s 156 Legislative District.
“Barbara McIlvaine Smith is a citizen legislator with a phenomenal progressive record and Democracy for America is proud to endorse her campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “In two years in the General Assembly and with a lifetime of community and business leadership, Barbara McIlvaine Smith has shown time and again she has the experience, wisdom, and judgment we need in Harrisburg.”
Rep. Barbara McIlvaine Smith, a lifelong resident of Chester County, was elected to the Pennsylvania General Assembly in 2006. Her win by 28 votes pushed the Democrats into the majority for the first time in 12 years.
A former small-business owner, educator, local elected official, and community leader, Rep. McIlvaine Smith serves on the board of the Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC) and also serves as the 3rd vice president of the West Goshen Lions Club. She is a member of many community organizations, including The Human Relations Council of the Greater West Chester Area; NAACP; American Association of University Women; West Chester Fish, Game and Wildlife; Chester County League of Women Voters; National Organization for Women, as well as others. Rep. McIlvaine Smith is an enrolled tribal member of the federally recognized Sac and Fox Nation of Oklahoma.
In the state Legislature, Rep. McIlvaine Smith currently serves on the Aging & Older Adult Services, Children & Youth, Education, Health & Human Services, and Local Government committees. She is the majority chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Special Education.
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
"I am honored to have the endorsement of a strong grassroots organization like Democracy for America,” said Barbara McIlvaine Smith. “Since 2004, DFA has actively changed the dynamics for running a successful political campaign and I appreciate the trust they have placed in me. DFA’s mission and mine is to continue the progress of bringing the power of government back to the people."
“Barbara McIlvaine Smith knows progressive solutions like universal health care and quality public education makes Pennsylvania and the United States stronger,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA. “Barbara McIlvaine Smith is a tireless champion of ethics reform, working to bring increased transparency and accountability to the Assembly.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Dina Titus for United States Congress
Released: August 7, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Dina Titus’ campaign to represent Nevada’s 3rd Congressional District. Dina is running against Dick Cheney’s best friend, incumbent and Bush-Republican, Jon Porter.
“Dina Titus has a 30-year record of accomplishment and leadership that can’t be matched and Democracy for America is proud to endorse her campaign.” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Dina Titus has shown in the legislature, the classroom, and the community that she understands the challenges we are facing and how to get the job done.”
Dina Titus has dedicated her entire professional life to education and public service. She has taught American and Nevada government at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, for 30 years. She has represented the people of Senate District 7 in the Nevada Legislature since 1988, serving as the Democratic Minority Leader from 1993 – May 2008.
A strong advocate for education at all levels, Dina has fought to maintain smaller class size in the important early grades and sponsored legislation for full-day kindergarten.
Developing renewable energy resources has been one of Dina’s priorities in the legislature. She has successfully pushed legislation to establish a portfolio standard requiring utility companies to acquire a certain percentage of green power. She championed creating a net metering program to allow individuals to generate their own power and sell the excess back to the utility companies, as well as green pricing options for consumers and tax incentives to companies that develop solar and wind energy generation.
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“I am honored to be endorsed by Democracy for America. Your members' energy and commitment have helped advance the important issues and causes of the Democratic Party,” said Dina Titus. “I will take that same energy to Washington and fight for a comprehensive energy policy that makes renewable sources a corner stone, an end to the war in Iraq, and a stronger economy for working men and women.”
“You don’t have to tell Dina Titus to fight for better schools or a solution to the health care or energy crisis because she’s been a leader on these issues and now is the time for her to take her experience to Washington to fight for Nevadans and all Americans,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA. “Dina Titus will not take marching orders from Dick Cheney or John McCain, but will fight for her constituents to bring good jobs to the district and to end the War in Iraq.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Jill Derby for United States Congress
Released: August 6, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Jill Derby’s campaign to represent Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District. Jill is running against Bush Republican lapdog Dean Heller.
“Jill Derby is an educator, an activist, and a community leader committed to serving her constituents. Democracy for America is proud to endorse her campaign.” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Jill Derby’s grassroots campaign is putting people-power into action and that is why she will win in November.”
Jill is a fourth generation Nevadan and started life on her family's Flying Flapjack Ranch in Lovelock, Nevada. She grew up in California, where her father trained pilots for the Air Force, and her family continued to spend time every year at the Lovelock ranch and at the family home at Lake Tahoe.
Jill has spent her career as an educator, teaching at Western Nevada Community College, Sierra Nevada College, the National Judicial College and the University of California, San Francisco. Jill served 18 years on the Nevada Board of Regents, a non-partisan, elected governing board for the Nevada System of Higher Education. As a Regent, Jill served as chairman and vice chairman.
Most recently, Jill has served as Chair of the Nevada State Democratic Party where she was a key player in planning and executing the successful January Caucuses. Jill tirelessly traveled the state working with local party activists to train caucus volunteers and encourage all Nevadans - Democrats, Republicans and Independents - to participate in Nevada's Caucus. Turnout for the Caucus exceeded all predictions, with 120,000 Nevadans participating at more than 1,700 precinct meetings across the state.
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“I am honored to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America,” said Jill Derby. “The work that DFA does to bring grassroots change nationwide has made the difference in many races, and I look forward to working with them to bring real change to Washington.”
“Jill Derby knows we must embrace new technologies to break our dependence on foreign sources of oil. She knows we will be a stronger country when we bring our brave men and women in uniform home from the War in Iraq. And, we must provide every Nevadan and every American with quality health care.” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA. “Jill Derby’s opponent thinks it’s just fine to vote against health care for children and to rubberstamp the regressive Bush agenda. Jill Derby has the courage to lead and the wisdom we need in Washington.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Patrick McCabe for Massachusetts State Representative
Released: August 6, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Patrick McCabe’s campaign to represent the 35th Middlesex District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
“Patrick McCabe has been fighting for working families his whole life and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign.” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Patrick McCabe is committed to a progressive agenda that puts people in charge and that is why he is the best choice for Democrats in this election.”
Patrick McCabe was born into a working class Irish family in Somerville, Massachusetts. Patrick's Dad was a trucker and his Mom was a letter carrier, and early in life they taught him the importance of hard work, community, and social justice. Patrick is a 1994 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, and served seven years as an officer in the United States Army, joining the elite Airborne Ranger Special Forces, and achieving the rank of Major. The highlight of Patrick's military service was leading 300 men and women from the 101st Airborne Division on peacekeeping missions in war-torn Kosovo, where he and his soldiers worked to protect the victims of the Serbian genocide.
After leaving the military, Patrick and his wife, Amy, settled in Medford, Massachusetts, where they are raising their two children, Madeline and Braeden. Amy works for a non-profit that helps military families struggling with the financial hardships of long deployments, and Patrick has worked for the past four years as the Organizing and Communications Director for SEIU local 1984, a public employee union in New Hampshire, where he helps working families fight for the dignity and fair treatment they deserve.
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
"I am honored to have the support of Democracy for America, an organization that demonstrates every day what grassroots democracy really means,” said Patrick McCabe “DFA makes a difference by empowering the disadvantaged and the non-well connected to find their voice in our political process, and that's exactly what I intend to do in this campaign."
“Patrick McCabe knows it's wrong to deny sick people access to important medical breakthroughs like stem-cell research. It’s wrong to deny women the right to reproductive freedom. And, it’s wrong to deny Americans the right to quality health care and that's why he'll fight for a universal health care solution that will serve the needs of every American.” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA. “As the progressive Democrat in this race, Patrick McCabe knows what’s right and has the experience, judgment, and wisdom to bring real change to Massachusetts.”
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Debbie Wasserman Schultz Still Doesn't Get It
Released: August 5, 2008
DFA Renews Its Call for Rep. Wasserman Schultz to Support Democrats
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, endorsed Annette Taddeo’s campaign to represent Florida’s 18th Congressional District because she is a qualified candidate ready to put her experience to work for South Florida. Ms. Taddeo is running against Bush Rubberstamp, Republican Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Party line toting lapdogs like Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and their failed policies are bad for South Florida and bad for America. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, co-chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s Red to Blue program, should support progressive Democrats like Annette Taddeo.
“Debbie Wasserman Schultz should join Democracy for America, the AFL-CIO, Women’s Campaign Forum, Orange to Blue, United Teachers of Dade, and many others who support Annette Taddeo because Ms. Taddeo will bring a new beginning to South Florida and America. Annette Taddeo will stand up for working families and fight everyday to move this country forward,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director of Democracy for America. “Debbie Wasserman Schultz is either going to stand with Democrats to end the War in Iraq, create good paying jobs, and make health care affordable and accessible or she is going to stand alone.”
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Why Does Ileana Ros-Lehtinen Love Medicare Fraud?
Ros-Lehtinen Voted Against Medicare Accountability Banked $180,000 From Special Interests
Released Jointly with the Florida Democratic Party
Miami, FL – Sunday’s Miami Herald reported billions of dollars in Medicare fraud takes place in South Florida every year – by far the worst record in the nation for Medicare abuse.
In 1998, the largest home health care provider in South Florida was charged with bilking Medicare for more than $45 million in fake services. The company’s founder had been a donor to Ileana Ros-Lehtinen’s campaign for re-election to Congress.
Congress did have the opportunity to fight back against Medicare fraud before it reached crisis proportions, but Ros-Lehtinen voted against allowing Congress to pursue its Constitutionally-mandated oversight role. In 1995, she voted for the so-called Medicare Preservation Act (HR 2421, Roll Call 731, 1995). The Act that Ros-Lehtinen voted for “crippled the efforts of law enforcement agencies to control health-care fraud abuse in the Medicare program,” according to the then-inspector general of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Even then, Ros-Lehtinen voted with the Republican Party line and against the best interest of the people of her district, a pattern that continues almost 15 years later.
Annette Taddeo, Ros-Lehtinen’s opponent in this November’s election, responded by saying she was not surprised. “This vote does not surprise me. It fits a pattern. For 18 years, Ros-Lehtinen has been claiming to be a moderate, but consistently places the interests of her party above the interests of the people of she is elected to serve.”
As Congresswoman, Taddeo says she will work to give every American access to affordable, quality healthcare. She supports allowing Medicare to negotiate directly with the prescription drug companies to get the lowest possible price for Seniors, and she will fight for a prescription drug plan that really works and doesn’t just benefit the big drug companies.
“It is time for a change in South Florida’s leadership,” said Taddeo. “It is time for a new beginning, where government is transparent and accountable to the people.”
Ros-Lehtinen has taken nearly $200,000 in campaign gifts from Big Pharma and HMOs. She has voted to cripple law enforcement’s ability to control Medicare fraud, and a year later, she simply refused to vote on a bill that was written expressly to stop Medicare fraud in 1996 (HR 3103).
“Rather than working to crack down on Medicare fraud, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen instead chose to profit off the people who are stealing millions of dollars from our seniors,” said Eric Jotkoff, Florida Democratic Party spokesman. “Ros-Lehtinen is either complicit or easily bamboozled, but any way you cut it she has no business representing South Florida in the United States Congress.”
“Ileana Ros-Lehtinen has taken hundreds of thousands of dollars in contributions from pharmaceutical companies and the insurance industry while betraying her constituents,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director for DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, which has endorsed Annette Taddeo’s campaign. “Ileana Ros-Lehtinen cares more about protecting her big money donors than she does about protecting the American people from fraud, waste, and abuse.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Ed Zipprich for Red Bank Borough Council
Released: July 24, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Ed Zipprich’s campaign for Red Bank Borough Council.
“Ed Zipprich has the experience, qualifications, and judgment that are needed on the Red Bank Borough Council and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign.” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Ed Zipprich is just the type of progressive candidate the Red Bank Borough Council needs to bring change to Red Bank and Monmouth County.”
Ed Zipprich has lived with his partner in Red Bank since 1997. He was born and raised in Staten Island and had a long career in purchasing, facilities management, and business operations in international law firms in New York City. Ed is the proud father of a teenage daughter.
Ed Zipprich has worked on planning and preservation issues for much of his life. He continues to do so in Red Bank as a member of the Borough Planning Board and as an active member of the Historic Preservation Commission. Ed is currently working with others on the historic commission to document homes in Red Bank to help create the first residential historic district in town.
In 2008, Ed was appointed to the Vision/Master Plan Review Committee by the mayor to reexamine the plan and move the borough into the future. He is a member of the Red Bank Centennial Committee and Preservation Red Bank. Ed is currently helping the Red Bank Borough Education Foundation reestablish itself and serves as Treasurer and Membership Chair of the foundation.
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Receiving an endorsement from Democracy for America is truly an honor. I worked locally on Howard Dean’s presidential bid in 2004 and have worked closely with NJ for Democracy over the years to educate citizens about the importance of grassroots involvement,” said Ed Zipprich. “I take seriously the ideals of DFA and have learned a great deal from the organization. I never thought I would run for office until learning from DFA that citizens can and should run for positions at every level of government. I am grateful for DFA’s support.”
“Ed Zipprich is a phenomenal candidate who will take the lead on historical preservation, smart growth through controlled development, fiscal responsibility, and public safety,” said Arshad Hasan, Excecutive Director of DFA. “Ed Zipprich is dedicated to Red Bank and he will be a great leader for the Borough.”
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40,000-Signiture Petition Delivered to Senator Lieberman: Don't Speak at Hagee Conference Tuesday
Released: July 21, 2008
New Poll Shows Overwhelming American Jewish Opposition To Alliance With Hagee, CUFI
WASHINGTON— Today, activists delivered a petition with over 42,000 signatures to Senator Joe Lieberman’s office demanding that he cut ties with Pastor John Hagee and his organization, Christians United for Israel (CUFI).
The petition delivery comes as CUFI today begins its annual Washington-Israel Summit. Sen. Lieberman is the most senior elected official confirmed to address the conference and has been actively involved in raising money for CUFI. The Senator will speak Tuesday evening at a dinner that is the only event of the conference open to the media.
“The purportedly ‘pro-Israel’ views of Rev. Hagee and his supporters bear little to no resemblance to the consensus of the vast majority of American Jews, who strongly support a negotiated, two-state resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and active engagement by the United States to facilitate it,” said Jeremy Ben-Ami, Executive Director of J Street, the political arm of the pro-Israel, pro-peace movement.
CUFI which describes itself as “pro-Israel,” opposes efforts by the Israeli government to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through territorial compromise. Trading land for peace is viewed as antithetical to “God’s will” and as an impediment to the group’s apocalyptic quest to precipitate the biblical Battle of Armageddon, in which all Jews will either be killed or converted to Christianity in advance of Jesus' return.
The “Don’t Go Joe” campaign, launched jointly by J Street and Democracy for America, gathered the signatures after footage surfaced last month of Rev. Hagee preaching that Hitler was doing God's bidding. In response to these remarks, presumptive Republican presidential nominee Senator John McCain severed all connections to Rev. Hagee. To date, Senator Lieberman, who has likened Rev. Hagee to the biblical prophet Moses and called him a “Man of God,” has steadfastly refused to follow suit.
“Joe Lieberman still has a chance to do the right thing,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Pastor Hagee is a bigot and a sexist. If Joe Lieberman speaks at his conference, he is giving a seal of approval to a man who thinks it’s fine to use fear and hatred to demonize Americans.”
“We will not allow such unholy alliances as Senator Lieberman’s relationship with Hagee, which are inimical to the core values and principles that the Jewish community holds dear, to go unchallenged for the sake of political convenience,” said Ben-Ami. “With these petitions, we plan to make it loud and clear and very public that, in his unwavering support for Hagee, Lieberman does not speak for us.”
A J Street poll of 800 American Jews, conducted by Gerstein/Agne and released last week, found deep disapproval within the American Jewish community for forming with right-wing Christian Zionist organizations, such as CUFI, and with the public figures who cultivate such ties:
Rev. Hagee himself is quite disliked by American Jewish, 7 percent having a favorable opinion of him and 57 percent an unfavorable opinion.
Senator Joe Lieberman, once highly regarded in the Jewish community as the first Jewish vice-presidential nominee, has become a highly contentious figure whose unfavorable now exceed his favorable ratings, 48 percent to 37 percent.
Without any description other than “CUFI is led by Reverend John Hagee and works to build support for Israel among evangelical Christians,” 51 percent of Jews have a negative impression of CUFI while only 19 percent have a positive impression.
When presented with CUFI’s own words to describe its mission and statements opposing CUFI (one critiquing Hagee’s public comments about Catholics, women, gays, and Hurricane Katrina and another critiquing his ties to extremists in Israel who oppose the peace process), Jews by a 4-to-1 margin say that Jewish organizations and leaders should not form alliances with the pastor or his organization.
In addition to closing most of the CUFI conference to media, Rev. Hagee’s lawyers quietly removed from YouTube over July 4th a series of videos concerning the pastor, charging copyright infringement. The clips include J Street’s own video tying Sen. Lieberman to Rev. Hagee, as well as footage taken from sermons Hagee had already made public and others filmed by media inside Hagee's conventions. Most had been online for well over a year.
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Democracy for America Endorses Annette Taddeo for United States Congress
Released: July 8, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Annette Taddeo’s campaign to represent Florida’s 18th Congressional District. Annette is running against the increasingly irrelevant, Bush lapdog Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.
“Annette Taddeo is a strong, independent thinker whose years of experience as an entrepreneur and community leader make her the progressive choice in this election,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Annette Taddeo represents a clear break from the failed policies of George Bush, John McCain, and the Republican Party.”
For the past 15 years, Annette Taddeo has run her own successful company and proven that hard work and dedication pay off. Annette is the founder & CEO of LanguageSpeak, a comprehensive language services company offering translations, conference interpretation, and private tutoring in over 100 languages.
Annette is the Chair of the Women’s Enterprise National Council’s Leadership Forum and serves on the Executive Board of WIPP-Women Impacting Public Policy. She is also immediate Past-Chairman of the Coalition of Dade-County Chambers of Commerce and Past-Chairman of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Miami-Dade County.
Annette Taddeo’s community activities and strong business leadership have resulted in numerous honors and awards, including being named South Florida Business Journal’s Business Woman of the Year, Small Business Administration Minority Business Champion of the Year, and one of the Top 50 Latina Entrepreneurs in the U.S. by Hispanic Magazine.
“Like Democracy for America, I am passionately committed to cleaning up the mess in Washington. When I am elected to Congress, my focus will be on creating jobs and restoring strength to our economy, making healthcare affordable and accessible to every American, and help bring a responsible end to the war in Iraq,” said Annette Taddeo. “I am proud to have the endorsement of Democracy for America because they share my passion for building a better America – we can stand hand and hand – as we fight for a stronger community and country.”
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District. This year in South Florida, DFA has raised over $35,000 for Joe Garcia’s congressional campaign in Florida’s 25th District. The DFA Campaign Academy, which has trained over 16,000 progressive activists in the skills and techniques of running winning campaigns, will be in Miami this weekend.
“Annette Taddeo’s opponent, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, has failed her constituents with her bizarre and misguided loyalty to President Bush’s disastrous policies,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director of Democracy for America. “Ileana Ros-Lehtinen has failed on job creation, has done nothing about providing affordable health care for Floridians, and has walked in lockstep with George Bush on the War in Iraq. It is time for her useless time in Washington to come to an end.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Marian Harris for Ohio State Representative
Released: July 2, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Marian Harris’ campaign to represent Ohio’s 19th State Representative district.
“Marian Harris is a true progressive fighter and Democracy for America is proud to endorse her campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Ohio needs Marian Harris to tackle problems like our broken health care system and a lack of quality jobs.”
Marian Harris spent more than 30 years working in and out of government and the non-profit sector. Marian’s experience as a constituent aide for Senator Howard Metzenbaum made her very aware of the impact policy makers and legislators have on the person on the street. When she coordinated Capital for a Day for Governor Celeste, Marian took the Governor and his Cabinet to 34 different cities - a true grassroots program that put policy makers next to the people their policies impacted.
Marian Harris graduated from Mt. Holyoke College and has been a medical researcher, a pre-school teacher, and an elementary school teacher before getting into politics and going to work for Senator Howard Metzenbaum. In addition to working for Governor Celeste, Marian has worked for Mental Health America of Franklin County and has had her own business as an event planner and volunteer manager for non-profits.
“Democracy for America speaks my language with their opposition to the War in Iraq and bottom-up, grassroots approach to campaigning,” said Marian Harris. “I truly believe that DFA represents the best of a grassroots approach to accomplishing change and I am very proud to have their endorsement.”
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Marian Harris has shown time and again she has the vision and foresight to take on the tough issues and work to advance progressive values,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Marian Harris will bring her years of experience to Columbus for the benefit of her constituents and all Ohioans.”
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Democracy for America Members Mobilize to Stop Telecom Immunity
Released: July 1, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, this morning sent a message to its over 725,000 members asking them to take action to stop the reauthorization of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. DFA members will be visiting their Senators’ district offices to demand that they stop the President’s attempt to grant retroactive immunity to the telecommunications companies that participated in his program of illegal wiretapping. DFA has been at the lead of efforts to block retroactive immunity.
“Retroactive immunity is an assault on the Constitution,” said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. “President Bush and Vice President Cheney cannot be allowed to give their cronies at AT&T and Verizon a get-out-of-jail free card.”
Democracy for America members will be delivering directly to their Senators a strong message of opposition to this boldfaced attempt to cover up the Bush administration’s illegal activities. DFA members will be carrying a message which demands that senators support a filibuster of the “compromise” FISA legislation. (DFA handout attached to this email)
In November of 2007, Sen. Harry Reid was forced, after his office received thousands of calls from Democracy for America members, to pull a FISA bill that included retroactive immunity from Senate consideration.
In the days before this year’s State of the Union address, Democracy for America members funded a full-page New York Times ad that called on Senators Clinton and Obama to show leadership, return to Washington, and support the filibuster in opposition to this attempt at retroactive immunity. Again, retroactive immunity was defeated after the Senate failed to garner enough votes to block a filibuster.
And, in March, Democracy for America targeted House Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes. Rep. Reyes had indicated he was “open” to compromise on retroactive immunity. After thousands of calls to his offices in El Paso and Washington and a full-page ad in his district’s largest paper, Rep. Reyes thought better of the compromise. Rep. Reyes stood with Speaker Pelosi and his committee produced a bill that did not contain retroactive immunity.
Over the past two weeks, Democracy for America members made tens of thousands of calls to their senators. These calls pushed back consideration of the FISA “compromise” till after the July recess.
“Democracy for America members have been working to stop retroactive immunity; they have made calls, they have written letters, they have shown the strength of grassroots action,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Today, they are going to show their senators’ the true face of America. DFA members will let their senators know the protections guaranteed by the Constitution are not optional.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Chellie Pingree for United States House of Representatives
Released: July 1, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Chellie Pingree’s campaign to represent Maine’s 1st Congressional District.
“Chellie Pingree, as a business owner and elected representative, has shown she has what it takes to lead and Democracy for America is proud to endorse her campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Chellie Pingree is a tested leader who has the skills and experience that her constituents deserve.”
Chellie has been actively engaged in three decades of work for change. This has ranged from serving the residents of North Haven on the school board to leading more than 300,000 members and supporters across the nation as the president and CEO of Common Cause to serving eight years in the Maine State Senate.
In the legislature, Chellie stood firm for social and economic justice, and never backed down from taking on powerful adversaries--most notably the pharmaceutical lobby. In the Legislature, Chellie took on the pharmaceutical companies to pass a first-in-the-nation program to lower the price of prescription drugs in Maine. Always mindful of Maine's need for economic development, Chellie was chair of the Economic Growth Council.
Chellie is a small business owner and farmer who understands the economic policies of George Bush, John McCain, and the Republican Party are not in the best interests of Mainers. She created jobs for community as owner and manager of North Island Yarns and North Island Designs. Chellie’s current business is Nebo Lodge, an inn and restaurant on North Haven.
"The most important part of my campaign has been one on one interaction with the voters at the grassroots level--which is why I'm thrilled to be endorsed by Democracy for America, an organization committed to grassroots organizing," said Chellie Pingree.
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Chellie Pingree knows we have to break our dependence on foreign oil, support development of alternative sources of energy, and fix our broken health care system to guarantee we leave our children and grandchildren a better world,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Chellie Pingree’s commitment to progressive values shows she is ready to go to Washington and tackle and solve the tough problems.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Tom Allen for United States Senate
Released: July 1, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Tom Allen’s campaign to represent Maine in the United States Senate. Tom has represented Maine’s 1st Congressional District for the past twelve years. In this campaign, Tom is running against Republican incumbent Susan Collins. Ms. Collins likes to portray herself as a moderate, but in reality she has been a consistent vote for the failed policies of George Bush, John McCain, and the Republican Party.
“Tom Allen has a proven record and the experience Mainers deserve and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Tom Allen is a committed public servant whose vision and foresight are needed in the Senate.”
Allen expressed his gratitude for the endorsement.
“In a few short years, Democracy for America has greatly strengthened our Party and our nation by empowering voters with effective tools for grassroots engagement and discussion on the issues,” said Tom Allen. “I appreciate DFA’s confidence in me and am thankful to have them on board in my campaign for change.”
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Tom Allen knows we have to end the War in Iraq, fix our broken health care system, and implement economic policies that support the middle class and working men and women,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Tom Allen’s people-powered campaign is a clear sign that he will put his constituents before big money special interests.”
“Susan Collins likes to talk a big game, but the truth of the matter is she can’t walk the walk and remains in lockstep with the misguided agenda of George Bush, John McCain, and the Republican Party,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director of Democracy for America. “Tom Allen is a straight-shooter who doesn’t change his tune based on the latest polling. This is a lesson Susan Collins is incapable of learning.”
Tom grew up in Portland and spent summers and weekends on the family farm near North Sebago. Tom attended Bowdoin College, where he demonstrated his capacity for courage and leadership. In 1965, he made headlines when he led the Bowdoin chapter of his fraternity out of the national association because it refused to admit African Americans. Through his academic success and leadership, Tom earned the Rhodes Scholarship. He attended Harvard Law upon graduation from Oxford.
Tom served on Portland’s City Council in Portland from 1989 to 1995. During his tenure, Portland led the state in nondiscrimination practices by banning bias based on sexual orientation for housing, credit and employment.
In 1996, Tom ran for Congress from Maine’s 1st District, defeating incumbent Republican James Longley, Jr. by 10 percentage points. In Washington, Tom has been a strong and effective leader, pioneering legislation on prescription drug issues, campaign finance reform and the environment. A member of two influential House committees – Energy & Commerce and Budget – he is a strong advocate for health care, small business, energy, fiscal responsibility and economic competitiveness.
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Democracy for America Endorses Dan Maffei for United States House of Representatives
Released: June 30, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Dan Maffei’s campaign to represent New York’s 25th Congressional District. Two years ago, Dan came close to defeating incumbent Republican James Walsh. Rather than face a tough campaign again, Mr. Walsh announced his retirement in January. Dan’s likely challenger on the Republican ticket will be the lackluster Dale Sweetland.
“Dan Maffei has the public and private sector experience that the 25th District needs and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Dan Maffei knows progressive values on issues like jobs and health care will make Upstate New York and the whole country stronger.”
Dan Maffei is an accomplished leader in the private and public sectors. A proud graduate of Syracuse's public school system, Dan earned a Bachelor's Degree in History from Brown University and Masters Degrees from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism and Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government.
Public service has always been a big part of Dan's life. He has worked for former Senator and New York Knick Bill Bradley, Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Congressman Charles Rangel, the leader of New York's Congressional delegation, and Syracuse Mayor Matt Driscoll.
Dan now works as the Senior Vice President of Pinnacle Capital Management, LLC and he remains an active participant of the Spanish Action League, the Tech Central Community Advisory Board, and Donors Choose. Dan is a member of the DeWitt Rotary Club and a parishioner at Holy Cross Church. He is a former member of NABET Local 211 of the Communications Workers of America.
"I am thrilled to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America and its over 725,000 members across the country. Grassroots support will make the difference for my campaign to change the direction of Central and Upstate New York,” said Dan Maffei. “DFA members have the experience, passion, and commitment that we need to help us communicate our message to the voters of my district. Together, we can finally end the war in Iraq and bring good paying jobs back to the region."
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Dan Maffei is ready on day one to work for an agenda that brings good paying jobs back to Upstate NewYork, fixes our broken health care system, and ends the disastrous foreign policy of George Bush, John McCain, and the Republican Party,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “While jobs were leaving Upstate New York and health care costs were soaring, James Walsh, Dale Sweetland, and the Republican Party did nothing. Dan Maffei’s experience, vision, and judgment make him the only choice on Election Day.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Linda Stender for United States House of Representatives
Released: June 27, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Linda Stender’s campaign to represent New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. Two years ago, Linda came within 1% of defeating incumbent Republican Mike Ferguson. Rather than face a tough campaign again, Mr. Ferguson dropped out. Running in his place on the Republican ticket will be Bush lackey Leonard Lance.
“Linda Stender has a progressive record of public service that can’t be matched and Democracy for America is proud to endorse her campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Linda Stender has been at the forefront of progressive activism in New Jersey and she is ready to take her experience and judgment to Washington.”
Linda Stender and her husband Richard raised their three kids in Fanwood, NJ, a few blocks from where she grew up. Linda first got involved in public service when the Fanwood Borough Council was putting special interests before the needs of the people. So, she ran for office herself to reform local government and help her neighbors. And she won.
After serving on the Borough Council, Linda went on to serve as Mayor of her hometown and Freeholder of her county. Today, Linda is proudly serving her fourth term in the New Jersey General Assembly representing her neighbors in the 22nd Legislative District. In the state legislature, Linda spearheaded the effort to combat Global Warming. Linda Stender is also one of New Jersey’s strongest advocates for making our state a national leader for stem cell research.
“I am honored and thrilled to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America, an organization that shares my commitment to working together to take our country back,” said Linda Stender. “The Bush administration and Republicans in Washington have led our nation in the wrong direction, and I’m running for Congress to get us back on the right track. I look forward to working with the DFA community over the coming weeks and months to bring the change our families need.”
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“With Linda Stender in Congress we can make much needed progress on issues like revitalizing our economy, ending the War in Iraq, making the United States energy independent, and providing health care to all Americans,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Everyone deserves to be represented by someone who is responsive to their needs and concerns. When Linda Stender is elected, the residents of New Jersey’s 7th District will have that.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Mark Begich for United States Senate
Released: June 25, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Mark Begich’s campaign for the United States Senate. Begich is running against disgraced Senator Ted Stevens. Sen. Stevens is currently the target of several investigations regarding his ties to lobbyists and powerful business interests like the oil services company VECO.
“Mark Begich has shown as mayor of Anchorage he has the integrity and judgment to lead and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Mark Begich’s commitment to honesty and transparency and his record of success make him the only choice this November.”
Mark Begich, 46, is in his fifth year as mayor of Alaska’s largest city, which under his administration is in its 20th consecutive year of economic growth, has enjoyed a record building boom and is financially sound due to strong fiscal management. Begich, the city’s first mayor born in Anchorage, is the son of Alaska’s third congressman, Nick Begich, who in 1972, along with House Majority Leader Hale Boggs, disappeared while flying between Anchorage and Juneau.
As mayor, Begich is especially focused on transforming Anchorage into a progressive, international city capitalizing on its Pacific Rim location. Twice during Begich’s tenure – and for the first time in a generation - voters have passed every proposition on the city ballot, approving enormous investments in public facilities, public safety, parks and recreation and transportation.
Begich will bring his style of being open and accessible with him when he is elected to the U.S. Senate.
“I am pleased to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America and recognition of my work standing up for working families, not for special interests,” said Mark Begich. “Together we can bring great change to America and improve the lives of families from Alaska to Maine and everywhere in between.”
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Mark Begich is ready to reform the corrupted and misguided ethics of the insider Washington culture,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Mark Begich is ready to do the hard work needed to make the United States energy independent, to make sure our struggling economy gets back on the right track, and to make sure we honor the service of our brave men and women in uniform.”
“Ted Stevens is part of the tired, old culture of incumbency that puts big money campaign contributors in the driver’s seat instead of the American people,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director of Democracy for America. “Mark Begich will work for his constituents and be accountable to the high standards Ted Stevens is incapable of living up to.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Geoff McKim for Monroe County Council
Released: June 24, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation's largest progressive political action organization, has endorsemed Geoff McKim’s campaign for the Monroe County Council.
“Geoff McKim will bring years of experience and insight to the Monroe County Council and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Geoff McKim is invested in representing his community and will advance progressive values that benefit his constituents.”
Geoff McKim is a 22-year resident of Monroe County, where he lives with his wife and their 10 year-old son. Geoff has been an IT professional for 20 years and currently works as a program manager and e-government consultant at TSC in Bloomington. Geoff is a community leader, active in the Monroe County Public Library Foundation, Lotus World Music and Arts Festival, Bloomington Transportation Options for People, Leadership Bloomington-Monroe County, and Monroe County Solid Waste Management District Citizen's Advisory Committee.
"I am proud to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America," said Geoff McKim. "DFA has been at the forefront of a grass roots effort to change the country, and I'm honored to be part of that effort."
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Geoff McKim is ready to lead on the important issues like improving county government, supporting responsible development, promoting quality jobs and locally owned businesses, and reforming the Monroe County criminal justice system,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Geoff McKim is a dedicated community leader who will work tirelessly to improve Monroe County.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Sean Spence for Missouri State Representative
Released: June 23, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Sean Spence’s campaign to represent Missouri’s 25th State Representative district.
“Sean Spence is a true progressive fighter and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Missouri needs Sean Spence in Jefferson City to tackle problems like our broken health care system and a lack of quality jobs.”
Sean Spence, a 1993 graduate of the University of Missouri, runs a public relations and political consulting practice in Columbia. A part-time state employee, Sean is an advisor to State Auditor Susan Montee.
Sean Spence is a progressive, grassroots Democrat committed to ensuring that every Missourian is educated, employed, and insured. As an entrepreneur with a background in government and politics, Sean has the experience to put his plans into action from his first day in office.
"Since 2004, DFA has emerged as one of the most influential grassroots organizations in the Democratic Party," said Sean Spence. "DFA candidates tend to win and I am proud to be their first standard-bearer here in Missouri for this election season."
Democracy for America is the key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District. Missouri candidates who have won with DFA's support include Rep. Mike Frame, Sen. Jeff Smith and Rep. Maria Chappelle-Nadal.
“Sean Spence is running a grassroots campaign that puts people before special interests,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Sean Spence is already showing why his presence is needed in the General Assembly: he is committed to his constituents and a progressive agenda that places a premium on hard work and commonsense solutions.”
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Democracy for America Says No to FISA “Compromise”
Released: June 20, 2008
Jim Dean: “Will Speaker Pelosi show the leadership to do the right thing?”
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, this morning sent a message to its over 725,000 members asking them to call Speaker Nancy Pelosi to demand that she does not let the so-called FISA “compromise” bill come to a vote. DFA has been at the lead of efforts to block retroactive immunity for the telecommunications companies that participated in President Bush’s program of illegal wiretapping on Americans.
“Listen, this bill is a sham,” said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. “The question is: will Speaker Pelosi show the leadership to do the right thing and stop this bill?”
In November of 2007, Sen. Harry Reid was forced, after his office received thousands of calls from Democracy for America members, to pull a FISA bill that included retroactive immunity from Senate consideration.
In the days before this year’s State of the Union address, DFA members funded a full-page New York Times ad that called on Senators Clinton and Obama to show leadership, return to Washington, and support the filibuster in opposition to this attempt at retroactive immunity. Again, retroactive immunity was defeated after the Senate failed to garner enough votes to block a filibuster.
And, in March, Democracy for America targeted House Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes. Rep. Reyes had indicated he was “open” to compromise on retroactive immunity. After thousands of calls to his offices in El Paso and Washington and a full-page ad in his district’s largest paper, Rep. Reyes though better of compromise. Rep. Reyes stood with Speaker Pelosi and his committee produced a bill that did not contain retroactive immunity.
“DFA members have stopped the Bush administration from giving telecom companies a get-out-of-jail-free card before and, now, they will do it again,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America.
“The folks who put this compromise together – Sen. Rockefeller (WV), Sen. Bond (MO), House Majority Leader Hoyer (MD), and House Minority Whip Blunt (MO) – are on the wrong side of American values,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director of Democracy for America. “It is a betrayal of the fundamental ideals of our country. These guys need to decide whether they are on the side of the American people or President Bush.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Don Barber for New York State Senate
Released On: June 19, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Don Barber’s campaign for the New York State Senate.
“Don Barber has a long and impressive record as a public servant and businessman and Democracy for America is proud to endorse his campaign,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Don Barber is just the type of innovative, progressive person we need in Albany.”
Don Barber was born and raised on a family dairy farm in Danby, New York. The demands and joys of being part of a family farm instilled in him a life-long belief in the power of working hard to meet common goals. While Don was growing up, his father modeled civic responsibility by serving as a town councilman and town justice. Don learned by watching his father that it is each person’s responsibility to work for the good of the community.
In 1983, Don started his own construction firm, Sunny Brook Builders, with the goal of being recognized in the community for integrity, high quality work, and strong, well-rooted relationships. Twenty-four years later, Sunny Brook Builders has met and surpassed Don’s original goals, and is recognized as a premier builder in Tompkins County. Under Don’s leadership, Sunny Brook Builders is a living wage employer, an Energy Star builder, and a member of the Better Business Bureau.
Don has followed the example of his father and worked for the good of the community by serving on advisory boards since the early 1980s, as Town Councilman for four years, and now beginning his 11th year as Town Supervisor for the Town of Caroline.
"Democracy for America supports candidates who demonstrate broad-based community support. DFA has been a strong advocate for universal, quality, affordable health care. In addition, DFA has been a leader in the battle to resolve the global climate crisis. I am honored to have their endorsement of our grassroots campaign," said Don Barber
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Don Barber has shown time and again, whether in his role as an elected official or as a small businessman, he has the vision and foresight to tackle tough issues and work to advance progressive values,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Don Barber will bring his years of experience to Albany for the benefit of his constituents and all New Yorkers.”
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Democracy for America Endorses Patrick Lindemann for Drain Commissioner
Released: June 18, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action community, has endorsed Patrick Lindemann’s campaign for Ingham County Drain Commissioner. Mr. Lindemann has served as the Drain Commissioner since 1993.
“Patrick Lindemann has served his constituents with distinction for 15 years in a position that does not get a lot of attention, but is vitally important to the everyday lives of Michiganders,” said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. “Patrick Lindemann is committed to protecting our environment while creating opportunities for sustainable eco-friendly development and we are proud to endorse his campaign.”
Patrick has lived and worked in Ingham County for his entire life. He began his career as a small-business owner in Lansing and was elected to the city council in 1979, where he served for 12 years. Among his accomplishments on City Council, was the passage of a recycling ordinance, the second of its kind in the country. Additionally, Patrick founded the Michigan Avenue Business Association and was a founding member of Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council.
Patrick received a Bachelor of Science in Resource Development from Michigan State University and is working on his Masters Degree. He was first elected to the position of Ingham County Drain Commissioner in 1993 and continues to serve the residents of Ingham County in that role. As our Drain Commissioner, Patrick has completed numerous projects to alleviate flooding and preserve our Counties natural resources. His work to create innovative eco-systems that serve as natural drainage areas in the Tollgate Drainage District has earned him international attention. He recently received the Clean Water Action 2007 Hero of the Great Lakes award for his unwavering commitment to clean water.
"I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of Democracy for America, a progressive organization that shares my values and dedication to preserving our natural resources for generations to come," said Patrick Lindemann
Democracy for America is a key endorsement in this race, bringing donations from progressives and providing volunteers to participate in door-to-door, grassroots outreach. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California’s 11th Congressional District.
“Patrick Lindemann’s progressive approach to water and resource issues is well-known and long-established,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Patrick Lindemann is doing tough, hard work and proving that progressive values have a place at all levels of government.”
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Come Together
Democracy for America Calls for Democratic Unity
BURLINGTON, VT -- DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation's largest progressive political action organization, today, in a message to its over 700,000 members, called on Democrats and progressives to unite behind Sen. Barack Obama as the presumptive nominee of the Democratic Party. What started six months ago in the caucuses in Iowa has produced a phenomenal candidate who is ready to bring Americans together to end the War in Iraq, provide health care to all, and confront the very real threats of global climate change. Democrats, progressives, independents, and Republicans will come together to support Barack Obama and defeat John McCain and the failed policies of George W. Bush.
"This has been a nomination process that no one could have predicted, but it is a process that was controlled by empowered voters who want to put an end to the disastrous leadership of President Bush, Vice President Cheney, and Sen. McCain," said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. "Over 35 million voters participated in Democratic primaries and caucuses because they were energized by the candidates and because they are ready for a change from the discredited and shortsighted Republican vision."
In his message to Democracy for America's members, Jim Dean wrote, "Last night, Barack Obama won the delegates necessary to become the Democratic Nominee. This historic victory is a testament to your hard work and dedication. We're moving America forward into a new era of progressive leadership."
"We are witnesses to an historic and transparent process that has strengthened the Democratic Party and provided us with a candidate who will defeat John McCain and move America back to a position of leadership in the world," said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. "Now that the primaries and caucuses are done, as Democrats, as progressives, as Americans we must unite behind our nominee and work as hard as we can to win the White House and change the world."
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Leonard Boswell’s Campaign in Freefall as Election Day Nears
Released: May 30, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action organization, endorsed Ed Fallon for Congress because he offers his 3rd District constituents the leadership and intelligence they need in Washington. Ed Fallon’s opponent in the June 3rd primary is so out of touch with the needs of Iowans and so scared about losing this election his supporters have started to send false attack mailers to voters. (In an editorial published on May 29th the Des Moines Register debunks the false attack mailers: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080529/OPINION03/805290382/1110)
“What Leonard Boswell is selling, the voters aren’t buying.” said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. “Races like this are won at the door and over the phone. Ed Fallon’s grassroots campaign understands this and that is why he is going to win on June 3rd.”
Democracy for America will use its grassroots infrastructure in the 3rd District to turn out hundreds of volunteers to participate in get out the vote activities in support of Ed Fallon. DFA and its members have, time and again, shocked the political establishment by focusing on the neighbor-to-neighbor outreach that is crucial for victory in tough races. Earlier this year, DFA and its members were instrumental in helping Donna Edwards defeat incumbent Congressman Al Wynn in Maryland.
Ed Fallon’s campaign which is funded by small donations from individuals contrasts with Leonard Boswell’s campaign which is dependent on large contributions from PACs like AT&T and Wal-Mart. Ed Fallon has excited and energized voters from across the District who have volunteered in large numbers to drive his people-powered campaign to victory in the primary. While Ed Fallon talks about bringing high-paying jobs to Iowa and fixing our country’s broken health care system and ending the War in Iraq, Leonard Boswell lashes out in a pathetic and vain attempt to confuse voters about his own shoddy record.
“Leonard Boswell has had his chance and he has failed. Leonard Boswell has failed on education, on the environment, on farm issues, and on the War in Iraq,” said Daniel I. Medress, Communications Director of Democracy for America. “Ed Fallon has the grassroots support and understands the issues that matter to voters. That is why Ed Fallon was endorsed by the Des Moines Register and why Ed Fallon will win on June 3rd.”
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Say It Ain’t So, Joe: Democracy for America and J Street Call on Joe Lieberman To Reject Pastor John Hagee, Withdraw from keynote address to Pastor’s DC Israel Conference in July
Released: May 27, 2008
BURLINGTON, VT/WASHINGTON, D.C. – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation’s largest progressive political action organization, is partnering with J Street, the political arm of the pro-Israel, pro-peace movement, to demand that Sen. Joe Lieberman cut all ties with Pastor John Hagee and "Christians United for Israel”.
Last Thursday, Senator John McCain renounced the endorsement of Pastor Hagee and made it clear that his views are simply out of bounds for mainstream American politics. Now it’s Joe Lieberman’s turn to follow the lead of his good friend, the Republican nominee for President.
J Street and DFA launched the “Say Ain’t So Joe” petition asking Sen. Lieberman to reject Pastor Hagee’s hatemongering and to refuse to appear at the 2008 Christians United for Israel Washington-Israel Summit this July 22. Democracy for America and its over 700,000 members and J Street are asking Americans to sign the petition and join the movement to keep Pastor Hagee’s brand of religious intolerance out of American political discourse.
Pastor Hagee has a long and despicable record of hate speech that has been well documented:
On Muslims -- "All Muslims have a mandate to kill Christians and Jews."
On Hurrican Katrina -- "I believe that New Orleans had a level of sin that was offensive to God and they were recipients of the judgment of God for that."
On Women -- "Do you know the difference between a terrorist and a woman with PMS? You can negotiate with a terrorist."
“Joe Lieberman has been hustled by a hate-filled con-artist who hides behind the cloak of religion to spread a particularly pernicious type of bigotry,” said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. “Does Joe Lieberman have no shame? Will he stand with a hatemonger and continue to praise this intolerant figure? Or, will he recognize that Pastor Hagee is no friend of Americans who believe that tolerance and understanding are things that make America great?”
“There should be no place in American politics – and certainly no place in the American Jewish community – for a man who holds John Hagee’s views,” said Jeremy Ben-Ami, J Street’s Executive Director. “John McCain finally got that on Thursday. Now it’s time for American Jewish leaders to admit that, for too long, Pastor Hagee’s supposed ‘pro-Israel’ views have bought him a free pass in the Jewish community. This has to end. It simply isn’t worth sacrificing core values and principles that the Jewish community holds dear for a political alliance of convenience. And the great irony is, Hagee in the end really isn’t ‘pro-Israel.’ His support for Israel is simply a means to an apocalyptic end of destruction or conversion for the Jewish people.”
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Democracy for America Starts the Right to Vote Campaign
Released: May 15, 2008
DFA Mobilizes Members Against Anti-voting Laws
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation's largest progressive political action organization, today, kicked off the Right to Vote Campaign to stop Republican efforts to require citizens to present government-issued photo identifications before voting. DFA sent a message to its membership asking them to participate in the multi-pronged campaign to defeat the Republican anti-voting plan.
"The progressive community is not going to sit idly by while Republicans work to dismantle our democracy," said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. "These photo ID laws are just literacy tests dressed up in new clothes."
Two weeks ago, the Supreme Court upheld an Indiana law that requires voters to present a government-issued photo ID before casting a ballot in an election. Republicans say these laws are designed to protect against voter fraud, but the truth is that this is a solution in search of a problem. The real aim of these voter ID laws is to disenfranchise traditionally Democratic voters: the elderly, the poor, people of color, and new voters.
Already, six states in addition to Indiana — Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Michigan, and South Dakota — now require voters to show a photo ID before voting. 19 more states are considering passing such requirements. And, Missouri is trying to take all of this a step further and require voters to prove their citizenship before voting.
In his message to Democracy for America's members, Jim Dean said, "Republicans can't win elections based on their failed philosophies, so, they've latched onto a new plan: make it as hard and expensive as possible for people to exercise their constitutionally protected right to vote."
Democracy for America recognizes that voter ID laws are just the latest attempt to disenfranchise voters and place additional hurdles before citizens who want to participate in our political process. As a stunning example of how voter ID laws disenfranchise and punish voters, just last week in Indiana, as many as 12 nuns were turned away from their polling place because they did not have photo identifications.
Democracy for America has a long track record of successful grassroots action. DFA has helped elect over 550 progressives to office from Governor Deval Patrick in Massachusetts to Rep. Jerry McNerney in California's 11th Congressional District. DFA has been instrumental in the ongoing fight to block President Bush's attempt to grant retroactive immunity to the telecommunications companies that participated in his illegal wiretapping program.
"The Right to Vote Campaign starts today with a petition that will be delivered to Democratic legislators and it will continue with online and offline action to beat back this outrageous attempt by Republicans to strip people of their right to vote," said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. "DFA and its members will be active across the country and, together, we will protect the right to vote."
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Democracy for America Members Mobilize to Stop Voter ID Law
Missouri Voter ID: A Solution in Search of a Problem
BURLINGTON, VT – DemocracyForAmerica.com, our nation's largest progressive political action organization, is standing firm in its opposition to Missouri's House Joint Resolution 48; a resolution that would require voters to prove citizenship before exercising their constitutionally guaranteed right to vote. This morning, DFA sent a message to its Missouri members calling on them to contact their state Senators and demand that they vote No on HJR 48.
"HJR 48 is as bad as it is unnecessary," said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA. "HJR 48 is a big government power grab that will disenfranchise hundreds of thousands of American citizens."
Republicans forced the resolution through the Missouri House of Representatives over the weekend and it will likely be voted on by the Senate this afternoon. The resolution will force American citizens who vote in Missouri to prove their citizenship by presenting an approved form of government-issued photo identification.
"It's a sad day when the General Assembly spends the people's time crafting legislation that is intended to disenfranchise elderly and poor citizens," said State Senator Joan Bray (St. Louis), an opponent of HJR 48. "My Republican colleagues try to talk a good game about protecting elections, but in the end this is just another example of big government run amok."
Democracy for America recognizes that voter ID laws are just the latest attempt to disenfranchise voters and place additional hurdles before citizens who want to participate in our political process. HJR 48 follows in a long line of measures designed to prevent people from voting. Like poll taxes and literacy tests, voter ID laws are intended not to protect the integrity of elections, but to disenfranchise traditionally Democratic voters. As a stunning example of how voter ID laws disenfranchise and punish voters, just last week in Indiana, as many as 12 nuns were turned away from their polling place because they did not have photo identifications.
"Republicans know the American people have rejected their failed philosophies, so, all they have left is to stop as many people as possible from voting," said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of Democracy for America. "HJR 48 is a despicable and desperate attempt by Republicans to win an election through Draconian means when they can't win on their own merits."
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