Friday, March 21, 2008

Saturday: Heinrich to Live Blog at Noon on Firedoglake

NM-01 Dem Congressional candidate Martin Heinrich will be participating in a live chat on the national blog Firedoglake at Noon MDT tomorrow, Saturday, March 21, 2008. Martin will be hanging out at the blog for about two hours to answer your questions and take your comments.

The influential Firedoglake, Crooks & Liars, Digby and Down With Tyranny are the creators of the Blue America campaign at Act Blue that's dedicated to raising netroots support for electing "more and better Democrats." During the 2006 election cycle, Blue America raised almost $545,000 for Dem House and Senate candidates around the country in only a few months. They expect to raise much more in the run-up to the 2008 election.

By the way, you're invited to a Victory Party to celebrate Martin's win at last Saturday's preprimary convention. Come on down to O'Niell's Pub, located at 4310 Central Ave. SE in Albuquerque, at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 25 and join in the festivities. Read more and RSVP.

March 21, 2008 at 01:03 PM in Events, Local Politics, NM-01 Congressional Seat 2008, Web/Tech | Permalink | Comments (1)

Gov. Bill Richardson Endorses Obama

Note: Also see my later post with videos of Gov. Richardson's endorsement speech at a raucous campaign rally in Portland, OR, and Barack Obama's thank you.

According to an AP report, Gov. Bill Richardson will appear with Barack Obama today at a campaign event at 12:30 PM PST in Portland, Oregon to formally endorse him for president. Here's the message that was emailed to supporters at 1:10 AM explaining the Governor's decision:

Brlogo

During the last year, I have shared with you my vision and hopes for this nation as we look to repair the damage of the last seven years. And you have shared your support, your ideas and your encouragement to my campaign. We have been through a lot together and that is why I wanted to tell you that, after careful and thoughtful deliberation, I have made a decision to endorse Barack Obama for President.

We are blessed to have two great American leaders and great Democrats running for President. My affection and admiration for Hillary Clinton and President Bill Clinton will never waver. It is time, however, for Democrats to stop fighting amongst ourselves and to prepare for the tough fight we will face against John McCain in the fall. The 1990's were a decade of peace and prosperity because of the competent and enlightened leadership of the Clinton administration, but it is now time for a new generation of leadership to lead America forward. Barack Obama will be a historic and a great President, who can bring us the change we so desperately need by bringing us together as a nation here at home and with our allies abroad.

Earlier this week, Senator Barack Obama gave an historic speech. that addressed the issue of race with the eloquence, sincerity, and optimism we have come to expect of him. He inspired us by reminding us of the awesome potential residing in our own responsibility. He asked us to rise above our racially divided past, and to seize the opportunity to carry forward the work of many patriots of all races, who struggled and died to bring us together.

As a Hispanic, I was particularly touched by his words. I have been troubled by the demonization of immigrants--specifically Hispanics-- by too many in this country. Hate crimes against Hispanics are rising as a direct result and now, in tough economic times, people look for scapegoats and I fear that people will continue to exploit our racial differences--and place blame on others not like them . We all know the real culprit -- the disastrous economic policies of the Bush Administration!

Senator Obama has started a discussion in this country long overdue and rejects the politics of pitting race against race. He understands clearly that only by bringing people together, only by bridging our differences can we all succeed together as Americans.

His words are those of a courageous, thoughtful and inspiring leader, who understands that a house divided against itself cannot stand. And, after nearly eight years of George W. Bush, we desperately need such a leader.

To reverse the disastrous policies of the last seven years, rebuild our economy, address the housing and mortgage crisis, bring our troops home from Iraq and restore America's international standing, we need a President who can bring us together as a nation so we can confront our urgent challenges at home and abroad.

During the past year, I got to know Senator Obama as we campaigned against each other for the Presidency, and I felt a kinship with him because we both grew up between words, in a sense, living both abroad and here in America. In part because of these experiences, Barack and I share a deep sense of our nation's special responsibilities in the world.

So, once again, thank you for all you have done for me and my campaign. I wanted to make sure you understood my reasons for my endorsement of Senator Obama. I know that you, no matter what your choice, will do so with the best interests of this nation, in your heart.

Sincerely,

Bill Richardson

An AP story reports,

"I believe he is the kind of once-in-a-lifetime leader that can bring our nation together and restore America's moral leadership in the world," Richardson said in a statement obtained by the AP. "As a presidential candidate, I know full well Sen. Obama's unique moral ability to inspire the American people to confront our urgent challenges at home and abroad in a spirit of bipartisanship and reconciliation."

... Richardson praised Hillary Clinton as a "distinguished leader with vast experience." But the governor said Obama "will be a historic and great president, who can bring us the change we so desperately need by bringing us together as a nation here at home and with our allies abroad."

... "There is no doubt in my mind that Barack Obama has the judgment and courage we need in a commander in chief when our nation's security is on the line. He showed this judgment by opposing the Iraq war from the start, and he has show it during this campaign by standing up for a new era in American leadership internationally," Richardson said.

Obama said he was "deeply honored" to have Richardson's support.

"Whether it's fighting to end the Iraq war or stop the genocide in Darfur or prevent nuclear weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists, Gov. Richardson has been a powerful voice on issues of global security, peace and justice, earning five Nobel Peace Prize nominations," Obama said in a statement.

March 21, 2008 at 01:55 AM in 2008 Presidential Primary, Democratic Party, Local Politics | Permalink | Comments (4)

Thursday, March 20, 2008

DPNM Needs DNC Delegate Applicants TODAY for Affirmative Action Status Groups

I posted earlier today about the 5:00 PM deadline for applying to be a delegate to the Democratic Convention in Denver this August and/or for registering to vote for these delegates at the April 19, 2008 Congressional District Conventions to be held in each of our Congressional Districts.

Now I've learned from Lynn Jacobs, Chair of the DPNM Affirmative Action Committee, that the Party is short of applicants for several affirmative action status groups. Such applicants are needed in all three CD's. Click to download a delegate application.

THE SIGNED APPLICATIONS MUST BE FAXED, EMAILED OR HAND-CARRIED TO NM DEMOCRATIC HEADQUARTERS BY 5:00 PM TODAY. THE FAX # IS 505-830-3645.

We especially need applicants, both male and female, who are NATIVE AMERICANS (all CD's); AFRICAN-AMERICANS (all CD's); HEARING (all CD's), SIGHT(all CD's) and MOBILITY (especially in CDs 2 & 3); and DISABLED

We would like to see more applications from LGBT - Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (all CD's);  ASIAN/PACIFIC ISLAND AMERICANS (all CD's); YOUTH - Under 40 (all CD's - could be combined with other status groups).

Currently, the largest number of affirmative action status groups applications are from Hispanics. All Democrats registered to vote in New Mexico are eligible and encouraged to apply to be a Delegate.

Please contact any friends and relatives who might be interested and have them fax a signed form to headquarters by 5:00 PM today.

More Info:

Democratic Party of New Mexico
1301 San Pedro NE
Albuquerque, NM 87110
info@nmdemocrats.org
Fax (505) 830-3645
Phone: 505-830-3650 (main) · 1-800-624-2457 (toll-free)

March 20, 2008 at 02:21 PM in 2008 Democratic Convention, Democratic Party, Local Politics | Permalink | Comments (1)

Register TODAY to Vote for NM Delegates to Denver Convention

If you want a say in who represents your Congressional District as a pledged delegate or alternate to the Democratic Convention in Denver on August 25-28, of if you want to run for a delegate slot yourself, you must act today. On April 19, 2008, Conventions will be held in all three of New Mexico's Congressional Districts to elect pledged delegates and alternates. In order to vote for pledged delegates and alternates to the DNC Convention who will represent the presidential candidates as allocated by our Dem Presidential Preference Caucus last month, you must either be:

  • a current member of the Party's State Central Committee, in which case you automatically get to vote and don't need to file an additional form, or
  • a delegate to last Saturday's State Preprimary Convention, in which case you must submit a form to register to participate, or
  • a registered Democrat who participated in the 2008 Democratic Presidential Caucus on Tuesday, February 5, 2008 by casting a vote at a caucus site or by mail, in which case you must file a form to register to participate.

The district delegate registration form, available here for download, must be completed and received by the Democratic Party of New Mexico by 5:00 PM TODAY, March 20, 2008, indicating you wish to serve as a delegate or alternate to the District Convention. (See below for email address and fax number.) In order to vote at a District Convention, you must do so in person. No proxy voting will be allowed. A total of 17 pledged delegates and 3 alternates will be elected at the District Conventions, and will be equally apportioned by gender and by Congressional District.

Click for more info on each of the three District Conventions to be held on April 19, 2008:

  • First Congressional District, Highland High School, Performing Arts Center, Moved to National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque. Registration 8:30 AM, Convention 10:00 AM.
  • Second Congressional District, New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, Las Cruces. Registration 9:00 AM, Convention, 10:00 AM.
  • Third Congressional District, Taos Convention Center, Taos. Registration 9:00 AM, Convention 10:00 AM.

There are a number of loyal, active Democrats who are running to be pledged delegates to the national convention to support either Clinton or Obama. You can also run to be a DNC delegate if you file this pledge form by 5:00 PM TODAY, March 20, 2008.

Check in at the DPNM's 2008 DNC Delegate Center Page to learn more. Or click to see the delegate plan rules governing the selection process. If you have any questions, contact the Democratic Party of New Mexico:

Democratic Party of New Mexico
1301 San Pedro NE
Albuquerque, NM 87110
info@nmdemocrats.org
Fax (505) 830-3645
Phone: 505-830-3650 (main) · 1-800-624-2457 (toll-free)

March 20, 2008 at 09:52 AM in 2008 Democratic Convention, Democratic Party, Local Politics | Permalink | Comments (0)

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

LWV Santa Fe Hosts Civic Dialog Event

From the League of Women Voters of Santa Fe County:

CIVIC DIALOG EVENT: MARCH 20, 5:30- 7PM
"Civic Engagement: Tools to Influence Government"
College of Santa Fe, O'Shaughnessy Room, Benildus Hall (Map)

Goal: Increase civic dialogue by providing a tool kit of methods, activities, styles to influence elected officials. Learn how you as a citizen can be included in the policymaking process and what you have a right to know from government + and to do.

Keynote Speaker: Fred Harris, former U.S. Senator and national Chair of the Democratic Party, now professor emeritus of political science at the University of New Mexico.

Panelists:
Carter Bundy, Executive Director AFCSME
Leonard DeLayo, Executive Director, Foundation for Open Government
Karen Heldmeyer, former Santa Fe City Councilor and neighborhood activitist
Ouida MacGregor, former Santa Fe City Councilor
Moderator: Billie Blair, President, Santa Fe Community Foundation

March 19, 2008 at 10:20 AM in Events, Local Politics | Permalink | Comments (0)

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

UPDATED-POSTPONED: You're Invited: Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund Launch of Campaign to Support Tom Udall for U.S. Senate

UPDATE: These events have been postponed and will be rescheduled soon. See my later post.
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From Ed Yoon, Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund:

Dear New Mexico Progressive Activists,

I invite you to join me and other progressive activists on Tuesday, March 25th in Albuquerque for a meaningful and fun press conference to formally launch Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund’s statewide campaign to defeat anti-conservation Republicans Steve Pearce and Heather Wilson and elect pro-conservation champion Democrat Tom Udall to the U.S. Senate.

At this press conference, Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund will unveil our new TV ad, campaign website and literature, and also announce our state campaign headquarters. We will also have a fun camera-worthy visual activity to highlight our message. The media is expected to be present and your volunteer time will be well-spent and appreciated.

Training and message preparation will be provided for those who are interested in speaking to the media as volunteer participants for the Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund. And we will provide free lunch since the event occurs during lunch break for many of you.

Please click here to RSVP or e-mail me at EYoon@DefendersActionFund.org.If you are with an organization, please be sure to indicate which so that we can try to connect further about collaborating in 2008, and to discuss how Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund can also be helpful to your efforts in the future.

What:
Press conference to formally kick-off Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund’s statewide campaign to elect Tom Udall to U.S. Senate, including the unveiling of its new TV ad, campaign website and literature, and campaign headquarters

When:
Tuesday, March 25th, 12:00 PM

Where:
Conference Room
1202 Pennsylvania Street NE, Albuquerque

Free lunch provided.

Thank you. Please click here to RSVP or e-mail me at EYoon@DefendersActionFund.org.

Steve Pearce and Heather Wilson are two of the most extreme, out-of-touch, party-line right-wing Republicans in Congress that continue to serve the whims of wealthy corporate special interests before ordinary New Mexicans. Their tenure in Congress is marked by erosion of our economy, billions of tax payer dollars continuously being drained in the costly Iraqi civil war, pillaging of our natural resources for special interest profit, and putting shame on public services through their dishonorably unethical behaviors. Together, let’s send them packing in 2008 so that we can elect a true champion for New Mexican families and all-around good guy, Democrat Tom Udall, who will work tirelessly in the Senate to rebuild our economy, exit responsibly from Iraq, represent New Mexico’s western values, and protect our conservation heritage.

I greatly look forward to welcoming and meeting you in person on March 25th to start the exciting journey to win together in November. Even if you can not attend the event, I encourage you stay in touch with me.

Sincerely,
Ed Yoon
New Mexico Campaign Manager
Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund
EYoon@DefendersActionFund.org
(505) 248-0118 Ext. 3

The Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund provides a powerful voice in Washington to Americans who value our conservation heritage. Through grassroots lobbying, issue advocacy and political campaigns, the Action Fund champions those laws and lawmakers that protect wildlife and wild places while working against those that do them harm.

March 18, 2008 at 05:00 AM in 2008 NM Senate Race, Environment, Events, Local Politics | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sunday, March 16, 2008

2008 NM Dem Preprimary Convention: More Photos, Video


Rep. Tom Udall, Dem candidate for U.S. Senate in New Mexico, speaks out against torture at DPNM Preprimary Convention Saturday

First off, watch the video above and then head over to UdallForUsAll.com to add your name to the list of Americans who won't stand for torture.

Next, go check out some additional photos I added at Flickr from yesterday's Democratic Preprimary Convention held at Santa Ana Star Center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Also see my previous post on the Convention (and a later one here on the Congressional race results).

Warning: I learned that Flickr has been having a problem for two weeks with visitors who use Internet Explorer 6 as their browser. Usually the photos show up fine but the slideshow feature doesn't load and/or work properly. They're still trying to come up with a fix.

March 16, 2008 at 04:03 PM in 2008 NM Senate Race, Democratic Party, Local Politics | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sunday, March 09, 2008

AG Gary King to Speak at League of Women Voters Lunch in Rio Rancho

From the League of Women Voters:
Attorney General Gary King will be the luncheon speaker for the Sandoval Unit of the League of Women Voters. The cost of the luncheon is $20.00 and will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2008, 11:30 AM, at Joe's Pasta House, Rio Rancho. Reservations are required and seating is limited. For more information contact Lisa Franzen (505) 867-0112 or geolisafranzen@aol.com.

AG Gary King is the elected officer that serves as the head of the Department of Justice. He functions as the state's legal officer; legal counsel to the state and government; consumer advocate and guardian of the public interest. In practice, Gary King is thought of as the "people's lawyer" and the public looks to the Attorney General to provide leadership that builds confidence in the state government and assures the people of New Mexico that as Attorney General he works for all of us.

March 9, 2008 at 01:08 PM in Events, Local Politics | Permalink | Comments (0)

Friday, March 07, 2008

(Updated) Cargo, MacCallum, Alleged NM GOP Vote-Buying Story on Collins Radio Show Tonight

UPDATE: Click to listen to an podcast (mp3) of about an hour of the show that focuses on the NM story. Both former Gov. Dave Cargo and KKOB's former news anchor, Laura MacCallum, are interviewed.
********
As posted on BradBlog by Brad Friedman:
New Mexico Republican Vote-Buying Scandal to be Covered Tonight on Peter B. Collins Show Guests to Include Myself, Along with Former US Attorney from NM, Former NM Republican Governor, Former KKOB Anchor Who Broke Story...

During my regular weekly Friday guest appearance on the syndicated Peter B. Collins Show at 5pm PT tonight (that's 6pm in Albuquerque), we'll be joined by guests:

  • Laura MacCallum (now-resigned KKOB reporter who broke the Heather Wilson Vote-Buying stories before they were spiked by her own station after complaints from Wilson.)
  • Gov. David Cargo (former Republican NM Governor. One of several officials who made the initial allegations)
  • David Iglesias Did not make it (former US Attorney from NM who was fired in the U.S. Attorney Purge after receiving inappropriate phone-calls from Heather Wilson and Pete Domenici.)

You can listen live right here. If there's time for calls, you can get in via 888-5-PeterB (888-573-8372).

March 7, 2008 at 02:53 PM in 2008 NM Senate Race, Crime, Local Politics, Media, NM-01 Congressional Seat 2008, U.S. Attorney Iglesias | Permalink | Comments (1)

Tuesday, March 04, 2008

Results of Santa Fe, Other Municipal Elections

According to this unofficial summary of the results of the Santa Fe municipal election by the Santa Fe New Mexican, all of the amendments to the city charter passed including ranked-choice voting and public funded elections. In Council District 1: Bushee 2,100, Garcia 798. In Council District 2: Romero 2,024, Dobyns 701. In Council District 3: Lujan 731, Chavez 867. In Council District 4: Ortiz 1,368. You can learn what passage of the charter changes means in this New Mexican article.

KRQE has election results for Rio Rancho, where Tom Swisstack won the mayoral race and the higher education initiative passed, and other municipal elections held around the state on Tuesday.

March 4, 2008 at 11:30 PM in Candidates & Races, Local Politics, Santa Fe Politics | Permalink | Comments (0)