Democracy for New Mexico

Sandoval County Dem Women to Host Potluck

From Janice Saxton, President, Democratic Women of Sandoval County: On Wednesday, June 18, at 6:30 PM, the Democratic Women of Sandoval County will meet for a potluck dinner at UU Westside Congregation Church, 1650 Abrazo, Rio Rancho. Please bring a dish to share. Coffee, tea, and water will be available. There will be a business meeting beginning at 7:15 PM. The public is encouraged to attend. Guests are welcome. For info call Janice Saxton at 867-1139 or email jnjsaxton@msn.com.

NM-01: Heinrich Celebrates Victory and Unity (with Photos, Video)

Rebecca Vigil-Giron introduces and urges support for Martin Heinrich

Click to view the entire photo album of this event at Flickr.

Martin Heinrich hosted a festive, high-energy celebration last night at the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque. He welcomed his long-time supporters and reached out to those who may have backed other Dems in the June 3, 2008 Dem primary in NM-01. It was a victory party and a unity rally all rolled into one, and it was packed with Democrats excited about our prospects in November. True Blue energy was in the air.

Heinrich addresses the crowd, and Micah joins him

The event was co-hosted by primary rival Rebecca Vigil-Giron, and prominent Dems Clara Apodaca, Richard Romero, John Kelly and others. The festivities brought out a large and diverse crowd of Dems, from campaign staffers, to volunteers, to grassroots activists to officeholders and well-known voices within the Party.

We HAVE TO WIN this race ...

Martin welcomed people on the patio and then moved inside for more conversation and the speeches. In a very gracious move, Vigil-Giron introduced Heinrich at the event and gave a rousing speech urging everyone in the First District to come together and work for a win, no matter their background or which candidate they had supported in the primary. Whole lotta unitin' goin' on.

Martin welcomes crowd on patio

Both the speeches and the discussions among the crowd stressed the must-win nature of this race. In a year when Dems have top-notch candidates from Obama for Prez on down the ticket -- and the GOP brand is considered toxic by a majority of Americans -- this is our chance to take back this seat once and for all. IF we work hard at it. IF we unite and work together.

Rebecca Vigil-Giron and Martin Heinrich

Heinrich stressed that our work has only just begun, despite a long, tough primary contest, and that it will be an uphill battle to defeat Darren White come November. But win we must with so much at stake right this minute in terms of peace, security, health care, education, energy, the environment, restoring our Constitutional rights and so much more.

All eyes on Heinrich

We need the kind of change that only Dems can bring. We need the people-powered change that a Martin Heinrich win can bring in the First District. We need wins at every level, in each and every race we can manage it. We need to pitch in and stay active and talk to friends and neighbors and raise money and donate money and make phone calls and knock on doors and really win this time. Really win this time. Really win this time.

Martin's son Micah joins him during speech

The Congressional contest in New Mexico's First District is seen as one of the premier races in the country. We have a really good chance to take a seat long held by Republicans and turn it BLUE this Fall. We have a strong candidate. We have psyched up Dems. We have the eyes of the nation upon us. We have the hopes of future generations hanging in the balance.

It's up to us to make it happen. Are you ready? Click.

See more photos of this event at Flickr. All photos and video by M.E. Broderick.

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Get Tix Now for Santa Fe County Dem Unity Celebration

Unity Celebration, Democratic Party of Santa Fe County
Sunday June 22, 2008, 2 PM – 5 PM
Fraternal Order Of The Eagles - 833 Early Street, Santa Fe

Enchilada Dinner, Soft Drinks
Food And Beverage Supervisor: Bernie Logue Y Perea
Desserts Courtesy Of Osteria D’ Assisi
Music: Sol Fire; Door Prizes

Tickets Purchased in Advance:
$20.00 Per Person, $ 7.00 Children, Infants Free

Tickets Purchased After Tuesday, June 17:
$25.00 Per Person $ 10.00 Children Under 10

PURCHASE TICKETS by sending the following information:

NAME
ADDRESS
PHONE NUMBER & E-MAIL
NUMBER OF ADULTS ____ NUMBER OF CHILDREN___
TOTAL $______ (Sorry no credit cards)
MAIL TO:
DEMOCRATIC PARTY OF SANTA FE / COORDINATED CAMPAIGN
720 ST. MICHAELS, SUITE 2-L
SANTA FE NM 87505-7626
Or Email sfdparty@newmexico.com
For more information: 505-982-1967

SPONSORS:
Obama For President, Tom Udall, Ben R. Lujan, Bennie J. Shendo, Jr., Harry B. Montoya, Bruce Thorne, Joseph M. Maestas, Paul D. Campos, Angela R. “Spence” Pacheco, A.J. Salazar, Joe Campbell, Rhonda King, Peter Wirth, Brian F. Egolf, Jr., Virginia Vigil, Elizabeth T. Stefanics, Valerie L. Espinosa, Jeffery L. Ludwig

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June 28: Host a Unite for Change House Party

One of the things I like most about Barack Obama's campaign is its dedication to a 50-state strategy like that employed by DNC Chair Howard Dean. It's one of the reasons Obama won the nomination and did so well in caucus states. Obama's campaign has already helped organize national canvasses and voter registration drives, and now it's joining forces with the DNC to do much more in that vein.

Even better, Obama's will be the first campaign in history to establish a campaign field office in every single state. Every one. There are no Red States or Blue States; there are only Dem States and those moving to become Dem States in the future.

Not only will this promote Obama's presidential campaign, but it'll bolster party building everywhere and help down-ticket candidates, even in states considered to be Red at the presidential race level. This is the beauty of a 50-state strategy -- it will help elect more Dems up and down the ticket all over the nation in November, and lay the groundwork for even more Dems running for office and winning in the future.

Unite: June 28th: In line with the strategy, Obama's campaign has announced a new, national Unite for Change day of action to take place on June 28th, with house parties hosted by ordinary people all over the nation. So far, I see that seven events are planned in New Mexico. You can sign up to attend one of these or, better yet, organize an event in your own neighborhood.

From the Obama Campaign:
All across the country, Democrats, Independents, and even Republicans are tired of the politics of the past and are looking for new solutions to the challenges we're facing. That's why we're launching a nationwide day of action on June 28th called "Unite for Change" -- and asking you to host a Unite for Change meeting in your neighborhood.

In all 50 states, supporters like you -- seasoned veterans and first-time volunteers alike -- will host house meetings with the express purpose of reaching out and bringing together folks who supported all of the Democratic candidates (and those who are just tuning into the process now). The goal is to come together and use the common values we share to build a united volunteer organization in your neighborhood that will register new voters and build support locally.

It's going to be an amazing time, and hosting your own event is easy. We'll provide all the tools and resources you'll need. Learn more and sign up to host a Unite for Change party on June 28th:

https://my.barackobama.com/unite

We're heading into a battle against John McCain, and the stakes are higher than ever before. But the path to victory is as simple as talking to your friends and neighbors. From the beginning, this campaign has been about ordinary people reaching out and building the bonds of community -- empowering one another by coming together to make change.

With the general election approaching, it's more important than ever to keep this momentum going. And there's no better way to make this happen in your community than hosting a Unite for Change event. You'll gather -- not just with Obama supporters, but with anyone who's tired of the politics of the past and ready for something new -- to share your stories and lay the plans for how to build this movement locally in the weeks and months ahead.

It requires some responsibility, but don't worry -- our team will be here with all the support and resources you need to make your Unite for Change event a big success. Learn more and sign up to host a party in your community: https://my.barackobama.com/unite.

...Being in every state will not be enough. In order to succeed in every community in America, it's going to be up to you to take the lead. Everyone who hopes for real change after November is counting on you.

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NM-01: Come to Martin Heinrich's Victory Party This Thursday

From Martin Heinrich for Congress: It's been one week since Martin's big primary win and now that we're all rested - it's time to party!

You're cordially invited to join The Honorable Rebecca Vigil-Giron, First Lady Clara Apodaca, The Honorable Richard Romero, John Kelly and others for a Primary Victory Party with the Democratic Nominee for New Mexico's First Congressional District, Martin Heinrich!

What? Primary Victory Party
When? Thursday, June 12, 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Where? The National Hispanic Cultural Center, The Salon Ortega & Courtyard, 1701 4th Street SW, Albuquerque
RSVP Online!

The Democratic Party is united around Martin Heinrich and we're ready to win. Yesterday, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee announced that Martin Heinrich is a 'Red to Blue' candidate. This means that this campaign is one of the most important races in the country and Democrats must do everything possible to make sure we win it. And, in a further demonstration of the national importance of this race, The Guardian - a prominent British newspaper - recently profiled Martin.

It's clear that all eyes will once again be on New Mexico's First Congressional District. And, this is our best chance ever to turn this seat from red to blue. So, please, come to our victory party and contribute $25, so that together, we can change Congress.

Thanks so much for your continued support.

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NM-01: Heinrich One of 12 Named to DCCC Red to Blue Open Seat Program

Heinrich Family

Excellent news. And it couldn't happen to a more deserving candidate. NM-01 Congressional candidate Martin Heinrich will receive welcome support for his campaign from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC). Chairman Chris Van Hollen announced in a release today that Heinrich will immediately be added to the DCCC's Red to Blue program for open seats following his decisive victory in Tuesday’s Democratic primary.

Congressional candidates earn a spot in the competitive program by surpassing demanding fundraising goals and by skillfully showing voters that they stand for change and will represent new priorities when elected to Congress. Heinrich is one of only 12 candidates in the Red to Blue program for open seats. Click to see the full list of candidates and donate via ActBlue.

“Martin Heinrich is a strong and principled leader committed to change. Martin has a proven record of raising the minimum wage, creating good jobs, cracking down on crime and protecting New Mexico’s environment,” said Chairman Chris Van Hollen. “The Red to Blue Program will give Martin the financial and structural edge to be even more competitive.”

The Red to Blue program highlights top Democratic campaigns across the country and offers them financial, communications, and strategic support. The program introduces Democratic supporters to new, competitive candidates in order to help expand the fundraising base for these campaigns.

Red to Blue was a proven success in the 2004 and 2006 cycles. In 2004, the Red to Blue program raised nearly $7.5 million for 27 campaigns across the country with an average of more than $250,000 per campaign. In 2006, the Red to Blue program raised nearly $22.6 million for 56 campaigns. Red to Blue was also responsible for solidifying the structure of dozens of campaigns and making a real difference for Democrats across America.

Martin Heinrich will face Repub Darren White in November's NM-01 Congessional election. To see our previous coverage of the NM-01 race, visit our archive. Heinrich won New Mexico's June 3rd primary with about 43% of the vote in a four-way contest.

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Two Fun Events in ABQ on June 14

From the DPBC eNews: Two events on Saturday, June 14, provide a wonderful opportunity for Bernalillo County Democrats to demonstrate their support, and have fun in the process:

"Juneteenth," celebrating the day news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached Galveston, Texas, in 1865, will be celebrated from noon to 6 PM at  Kirtland Park and Thomas Bell Community Center (3001 University  SE). The County party will have a voter registration and candidate literature table at the event. Some of our candidates will be there, and there will be lots of food, games for the kids, music, and storytelling activities. Come on out! More info.

"Live, Love, Be" is the theme of this year's Albuquerque Pride, celebrating 32 years of the gay,lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community. The Bernalillo County Democratic Party will have a float in the morning Pride Parade, and the state party will have a booth at the Pridefest festival following at EXPO NM (Fairgrounds). Come watch the parade (leaves Girard and Central at 10 AM and proceeds up Central to the Fairgrounds) and visit the Pridefest after! More info.

Any one who wants to help decorate the float on Friday, June 13, please call Cheryl Harris, 321-7678 or cherylannharris@comcast.net

The Democratic Party supports equality for all citizens and the protection of our civil liberties.

Click for Santa Fe Pride events.

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Hillary Nails It; Endorses Obama

Moments ago, Senator Clinton officially announced her support for Barack Obama. Hillary Clinton made history over the past 16 months -- not just because she has broken barriers, but because she has inspired millions of Americans with her strength, her courage, and her commitment to causes like universal health care that make a difference in the lives of all Americans.

Please take a minute to thank her for her hard work and for supporting this campaign.
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Obama's website is displaying the above message and I wanted to include it here. You know how hard I can be on both Hillary and Bill Clinton, but today is the day for coming together, as Democrats and as human beings who want to join forces and defeat the negative forces that have been pulling us down for too long in so many critical ways. Now we need to unite behind our best hope for change at the national level, reach out to everyone who has been active in this extraordinary primary season, join our energies and work for the change door to door, phone call by phone call, dollar for dollar, up and down the ticket. Lives are literally in the balance.

I thought Hillary Clinton gave a soaring and inspiring concession speech today that hit all the right notes, gracefully and with dignity. She brought home the truly historic nature of her campaign, as well as that of Barack Obama, and articulated beautifully so many of the ideals and values we share as Democrats -- for equality, for justice, for the environment, for peace, for lifting one another up, for creativity and gumption, for moving humans forward into better ways of relating, working and being.

Of course given the often brutal nature of politics and power, as well as our flaws, foibles and fumbles, none of us lives up to these ideals all the time, or even most of the time. The important thing is that we try. And keep trying. That we continue to wring out the best we can from every situation, from every challenge. And work together despite our differences to replace fearmongering with hope this November. As Hillary said, echoing Obama's moving message: Yes We Can.

Of course the true test of HIllary's dedication to a presidential win for us this November will come in seeing what actions she puts behind her words, and the kind of commitment she urges her supporters to make to Obama as we go forward. But today, I feel relieved, optimistic, fired up and ready to go. I'm that corny. And that Democratic at my core.

Transcript. Videos of entire speech. New York Times live-blogging of event, with photos and quotes.

Excerpt of speech:

Just think how much more progress we could have made over the past 40 years if we'd had a Democratic president. Think about the lost opportunities of these past seven years on the environment and the economy, on health care and civil rights, on education, foreign policy and the Supreme Court.

Imagine how far we could have come, how much we could have achieved if we had just had a Democrat in the White House.

We cannot let this moment slip away. We have come too far and accomplished too much.

Now, the journey ahead will not be easy. Some will say we can't do it, that it's too hard, we're just not up to the task. But for as long as America has existed, it has been the American way to reject can't-do claims and to choose instead to stretch the boundaries of the possible through hard work, determination, and a pioneering spirit.

It is this belief, this optimism that Senator Obama and I share and that has inspired so many millions of our supporters to make their voices heard. So today I am standing with Senator Obama to say: Yes, we can!

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Tonight on NM In Focus: Tom Udall, Brian Colon, Diane Denish, Primary Wrap-Up

Tonight at 7:00 PM, KNME's New Mexico In Focus features a wrap-up of Tuesday's New Mexico primary and a look ahead to November. David Alire Garcia interviews Tom Udall, special guests give their takes on the results and Gene Grant and The Line panelists provide analysis.

Guests:
• Brian Colon, Democratic Party of New Mexico Chairman
• Diane Denish, Lt. Governor
• Tom Udall, Dem Candidate, U.S. Senate
•  Dan East, Repub Candidate, U.S. Senate
• Allen Weh, Republican Party Chairman

Guest Panelist:
• Michael Coleman, Albuquerque Journal Reporter

Regular Commentators/Panelists
• Hosts: Gene Grant and David Alire Garcia
• Margaret Montoya, UNM School of Law / UNM School of Medicine
• Scott Darnell, Communication Director, Republican Party of New Mexico
• Jim Scarantino, Weekly Alibi Columnist

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(Updated) Dean to Stay as DNC Chair; Obama Adds One of His Own

Dean at Dem event in Albuquerque not long after becoming DNC Chair

Update: Politico reports on more change at the DNC being instituted by Obama: "Beginning Thursday, the DNC will no longer accept checks from federal lobbyists or political action committees, mirroring the strict standard Obama adopted for his presidential campaign." Gotta love it. In another nod to transparency, Obama will allow at least one pool reporter in to cover his fundraisers. McCain holds only closed-door fundraisers and bans members of the media from attending.
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Great news. Do you think this would have gone this way had Clinton won? According to Chris Cillizza at the Washington Post, DNC Chair Howard Dean will remain in his current post as Obama moves to establish his influence within the Party apparatus as the Dem presidential nominee:

Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.) is moving quickly to put his imprint on the Democratic National Committee, offering a vote of confidence in current chairman Howard Dean while also installing one of his most senior political deputies in a leadership role at the party committee.

In the days since Obama clinched the Democratic presidential nomination on Tuesday night, there had been speculation that Dean might be removed in favor of a party chairman of Obama's choosing. Obama put that speculation to rest this morning.

"Senator Obama appreciates the hard work that Chairman Dean has done to grow our party at the grassroots level and looks forward to working with him as the chairman of the Democratic Party as we go forward," said Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton in a statement.

As I've said before, Obama is a supporter of Dean's 50-state strategy and grassroots focus within the Party, which I think was an important factor in his nomination victory. By keeping Dean on it shows that Obama believes the strategy will also be effective in the general election campaign. He'll add someone from his campaign in a leadership role at the DNC, of course, but I think it speaks volumes about Obama's respect for Dean that he's keeping Howard at the helm:

Although Obama is keeping Dean, he is also ensuring that one of the main pillars of his campaign is installed at the DNC. Paul Tewes, a longtime party operative who managed Obama's Iowa caucus effort, will take over the general-election strategy at the DNC, according to several officials briefed on the decision.

Dean will announce Tewes to the DNC staff this afternoon. No title for the nomadic political operative, who served as political director of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee during the 2006 cycle, has been chosen.

Those close to the DNC's operations insist that no wholesale changes will occur at the party committee. Instead, the current staff will stay in tact while a number of Obama loyalists are added to bolster the committee's general election operation.

We all know that, had Clinton won, Dean would have been out as fast as it could be accomplished. We'd likely have had to deal with Terry McAuliffe as Chair once again, and every vestige of Dean's approach being swept out and replaced with the Clintonista-brand. What a thought.

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