Seth Tanner's Blog

Thank You!

Seth Tanner — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 20:19:40 MST

From Governor Richardson

Dear Friend,
It is with great pride, understanding and acceptance that I am ending my campaign for President of the United States. It was my hope that all of you would first hear this news from me and not a news organization. But unfortunately, as with too many things in our world today, it's the ending of something that garners the most intense interest and speculation.

I knew from the beginning that this would be an uphill climb. When I entered the campaign, it was clear that we, as Democrats, had the most talented field of candidates in my lifetime running to change the direction of our country. And in the end, one of them will.
Despite overwhelming financial and political odds, I am proud of the campaign we waged and the influence we had on the issues that matter most to the future of this country.
A year ago, we were the only major campaign calling for the removal of all of our troops within a year's time from Iraq. We were the only campaign calling for a complete reform of education in this country, including the scrapping of No Child Left Behind. And we were the campaign with the most aggressive clean energy plan and the most ambitious standards for reducing global warming.
Now, all of the remaining candidates are coming to our point of view. I am confident that the next President of the United States will implement much of what we've been urging for the last twelve months, and our nation and world will be the better for it.
There are so many of you who gave so much to this campaign. For that, I will be forever grateful. Running for president has been, at times, humbling and at other times, exhilarating. I have grown and learned a great deal from the experience, and I am a better person for it.
Also, because of your close friendship and support throughout the ups and downs of what is a very grueling and demanding process, I have never felt alone.
Running for president brings out the best in everyone who graces the stage, and I have learned much from the other candidates running. They have all brought great talents and abilities to the campaign.
Senator Biden's passion and intellect are remarkable.
Senator Dodd is the epitome of selfless dedication to public service and the Democratic Party.
Senator Edwards is a singular voice for the most downtrodden and forgotten among us.
Senator Obama is a bright light of hope and optimism at a time of great national unease, yet he is also grounded in thoughtful wisdom beyond his years.
Senator Clinton's poise in the face of adversity is matched only by her lifetime of achievement and deep understanding of the challenges we face.
Representative Kucinich is a man of great decency and dedication who will faithfully soldier on no matter how great the odds.
And all of us in the Democratic Party owe Senator Mike Gravel our appreciation for his leadership during the national turmoil of Vietnam.
I am honored to have shared the stage with each of these Democrats. And I am enormously grateful to all of my supporters who chose to stand with me despite so many other candidates of accomplishment and potential.
Now that my time in this national campaign has come to an end, I would urge those who supported my candidacy to take a long and thoughtful look at the remaining Democrats. They are all strong contenders who each, in their own way, would bring desperately needed change to our country. All I ask is that you make your own independent choice with the same care and dedication to this country that you honored me with during this campaign. At this time, I will not endorse any candidate.

Now I am returning to a job that I love, serving a state that I cherish and doing the work of the people I was elected to serve. As I have always said, I am the luckiest man I know. I am married to my high school sweetheart. I live in a place called the Land of Enchantment. I have the best job in the world. And I just got to run for president of the United States.
It doesn't get any better than that.
With my deepest appreciation for all that you have done,

Bill

Governor Bill Richardson
The Governor's Mansion
Santa Fe, New Mexico

Beyond this contest

Seth Tanner — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 14:25:58 MST

From Governor Richardson

Dear Friend,
There are just 5 hours left until the polls close here in New Hampshire and then I've got to get ready for Nevada, South Carolina -- and then the West.
There is a reason why there are so many contests in this process. So EVERY American from EVERY state can play a role in deciding our next President. Not just one or two states. The American people are too smart and this election is too important to let the early numbers determine the next 48!
But in order to keep going, I need the continued support of people like you, friend. I have appreciated your past support, but I need it now more than ever.
Please help me move out West -- where my support is the strongest- by supporting my campaign with $50 or $100 or even more.
Here in New Hampshire, people have been incredibly responsive to me and my vision for America.
Just yesterday The Keene Sentinel ran a terrific article where they interviewed some of the 200 folks who attended our rally in Keene on Sunday.
Here's what New Hampshire voters are saying:

Frank Dialessi of Keene said he plans to vote for Richardson, calling him the most qualified. "No one can dispute that," he said. "From all angles he's clearly the best candidate ... Richardson is the most highly qualified."

Keene High School teacher Jennifer White, holding Richardson signs at the corner of Roxbury Street and Central Square ahead of Sunday's rally, said it is Richardson's like-minded approach to education that appeals to her, and his pledge to scrap No Child Left Behind.

Keene voter Michael Chelstowski is drawn to Richardson, he said, because Richardson is saying more about the environment than any other candidate. "And that," he said, "is the long-term critical issue we face."

And Bob Jones of Nelson said: "He hit on the points I wanted to hear...Never in my adult life have I seen a situation where one person is going to have to handle so many important issues at once. I've been to New Mexico; I've seen the great job he's done in that state."
I hope I can count on you for a boost of $50, $100 or $250. I want to go West, my campaign is ready to go, but we can't do it without the financial resources we need to pull off a win. Please help today.
I've got to run. Keep your eyes on New Hampshire -- but look forward to the next leg of this race!
Bill

What New Hampshire Saw

Seth Tanner — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:33:08 MST

From Deputy Campaign Manager Amanda Cooper

I hope you watched the debate last night.
Because New Hampshire voters sure did. And our post debate research shows that Bill Richardson changed a lot of minds just ahead of Tuesday's primary!
You could see it in the room. I stood at the back so I could watch people's reactions. And I saw a lot of head nodding whenever the Governor talked about his foreign policy credentials or his executive experience. You can watch highlights here.
And if you missed the debate, you can watch the whole thing again tonight at 7 p.m. EST on CNN. If you saw it, we hope you can see it again, and be sure to tell your friends across the country to tune in. Chris Cillizza of The Washington Post said the Governor was a "winner" last night, he "shone" and definitely "showed his sense of humor and deep resume" we hope you get to see it.
New Hampshire news station WMUR conducted a focus group and when the Governor started talking about his experience you should have seen the results -- they went off the charts!
New Hampshire voters saw a candidate who knew a lot more than the rest of the field on the stage with him -- a candidate who is ready to lead from day one!
This is a whole new race in New Hampshire!
The field is narrower. The numbers are in flux. And people in New Hampshire are taking a closer look at Bill Richardson. Our field staff are hearing it across the state people are coming over to our side every day.
Help us close the gap in this last critical 48 hours! Your contribution NOW will extend our reach into every corner of New Hampshire before the polls open on Tuesday!
A lot of people don't remember this but Bill Clinton actually lost Iowa. And he only managed to place second in New Hampshire!
But as people got to know him better, they liked what he had to say. And the rest, as you know, is history.
We have our entire campaign mobilized here in New Hampshire because we know Bill Richardson can do the same thing!
Help us finish strong in New Hampshire so we can set the stage for the rest of the primaries! Please give generously TODAY!
Amanda

Claremont Eagle Times Endorses Bill Richardson

Seth Tanner — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:21:32 MST

Read it here.

Democrats have a variety of choices before them Tuesday. None can match Richardson's experience.

He has served as a congressman where he was known for his ability to reach across the aisle and work with Republicans who respected him - though they often disagreed with his policies. He served as the United Nations ambassador and was secretary of energy in the Clinton administration, where he worked on policies aimed at reducing our dependence on foreign oil.

And he has for six years been governor of New Mexico where he has increased health care opportunities for children while balancing the budget every year.

Presidents of both political parties have called on him to negotiate with foreign leaders in tense times. He has worked with dignitaries in countries ranging from Great Britain to North Korea. On Day 1 of his presidency, he would be able to handle any crisis that comes before the administration.

In his trips to Claremont, he has impressed crowds with his knowledge of all kinds of domestic and foreign issues. He may lack the charisma of other candidates but none can top him in substance.

Voters will be lucky indeed if in November they have a choice between two intellectually honest, experienced men such as John McCain and Bill Richardson.

Thank You!

Seth Tanner — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 19:09:35 MST

From Governor Richardson

I'm sorry I didn't get to you sooner.

We left Iowa at 11 last night and got into New Hampshire at 3 this morning. I've been doing events all day and I have to head out in a few minutes for a television interview.

While it might not look like it from the headlines, we accomplished a lot in Iowa. And I have you to thank for that, Seth.

Your trust was not only inspirational, it gave us the resources to run a very competitive campaign.

We mobilized nearly 20,000 voters and took 7% of the caucus-goers in the first round. But given the unique nature of the Iowa caucus process and the unexpectedly large turnout, we weren't able to hold onto all of those votes into the final round.

As I'm sure you've heard by now, I am not giving up. And I don't want you to, either.

If we learned anything in Iowa, it's that this race is still very fluid. And our folks in New Hampshire tell us that a lot of voters there are re-thinking their positions in light of what happened last night.

Suddenly, "inevitable" doesn't seem so inevitable anymore.

Right now I'm focused on tomorrow night's debate. And shoot, the way I look at it, I made the "Final Four"!

I'll be in touch,

Bill

Final Four

Seth Tanner — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:42:15 MST

DES MOINES, IA-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson finished in fourth place in today's Iowa caucuses, moving his campaign forward to the New Hampshire primary on January 8th.

"We made it to the final four," Richardson said. "My staff and volunteers worked their hearts out to get us here. Now we are going to take the fight to New Hampshire."

Richardson received 7 % of the vote in entrance polls. After watching the results at a rally in Des Moines, he boarded a plane for New Hampshire.

"It has been an honor to meet with Iowans and be a part of this extraordinary process," Richardson said. "I am the one candidate who has said we must end this war by getting all our troops out of Iraq. We cannot truly change this country until we end this war- and we can only do that by getting every US troop out. Americans who want to get us out of Iraq aren't giving up and neither am I. We cannot end the division in this country until we are out of Iraq and we cannot focus on fixing our problems at home and our image abroad until our troops are out of Iraq. We cannot wait until 2013 or longer."

"Thank you, Iowa. Now we go on to New Hampshire."

Iowa Caucuses Open Thread

Seth Tanner — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:36:25 MST

Discuss below.

10 Minutes

Seth Tanner — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:48:23 MST

Campaign Mananger Dave Contarino has one thing you can do from home to help get out the vote for Bill tonight.

Dear Friend,
Well, we're finally here! It is caucus day in Iowa and now is the time to get our supporters to the polls.
We have field staff across the state making phone calls, going door-to-door -- and doing everything they can think of to make sure people make it to the caucuses.
But we could use your help -- even if you just have a few minutes to pitch in. Can you help us with some phone calls to Iowans today? We're just checking in with people to make sure they know where to go tonight, and how important it is that they bring a neighbor or two with them to support Bill Richardson.
It only takes a few minutes to make calls, but if all of our non-Iowa supporters pitch in with a few calls each, that alone can make a real difference.
Would you make a few calls right now?
Thanks again for all of your help -- you got us this far, and now you can help us bring a win home.
Dave

New Year's Message

Seth Tanner — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 10:04:04 MST

From Governor Richardson

Dear Friend,
As we all gaze anxiously into the promise and anticipation that comes with every New Year, Barbara and I wanted to take a moment to extend a heartfelt thank you for your support and generosity in 2007.
One of our favorite New Year's Day traditions is to take a few moments and reflect upon the experiences of the previous year. Barbara whips up a couple mugs of steaming hot cocoa and we sit by the fireplace and reminisce for about an hour -- it's a wonderful way to remind ourselves of the lessons, both good and bad, we've learned over the past 365 days.
The biggest lesson I've learned this year is how with the help of committed activists like you, anything is possible.
And when I say anything, friend, I mean anything!
2007 was a wonderfully exciting year and we are both anxious to hit the ground running in '08. The Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary are just days away, and I know you're as excited as we are!
From our family to yours, best wishes for a happy and healthy 2008. Let's show the world what we can do!
Happy New Year,
Bill

Watch what's happening in Iowa!

Seth Tanner — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 11:42:35 MST

Campaign Manager Dave Contarino sent this email out to grassroots supporters across the country today

Dear %%FIRSTNAME(Friend)%%,
You may not know this but the Iowa Caucuses are not like a regular election. It's more like a state full of 1,781 town meetings happening simultaneously in all 99 counties at the exact same time. And the outcome is usually very different from the polls.

And between the great poll news we got yesterday and the hard work we've done on the ground, we have a real shot at shocking the world on Thursday!

You can see it in the crowds. People are packing the Governor's events! The Des Moines Register had this to say:

"Democrat Bill Richardson always jokes he's no rock star, but he got treated like one today as a boisterous crowd of about 400 people cheered, whistled and waved Richardson signs at a campaign rally in downtown Des Moines."

And Reid Wilson of Real Clear Politics chimed in:

"If the big crowd on a frigid weekend afternoon -- when most rational people are snuggly watching football games -- is any indication, RichMentum may be the next buzz word of the 2008 campaign."

You can see what they mean in this video from last week.

The Iowa caucuses always break late. And this year, they're breaking for Bill Richardson! Your $50, $100, or $250 will help us keep our thousands of volunteers working right up until Thursday night.

After that, it's my job to bring their hard work to fruition. Let me boil it down for you.

The delegates all go to caucuses -- essentially meetings -- across the state at 7PM and declare for whatever candidate they back.

Then the horse trading and arm twisting begins because the delegates of any candidate who doesn't get at least 15% of the votes go to their second choice.

And that's where OUR numbers surge. Because we know we have at least 15% of the delegates in most precincts across the state. And we know that we're the second choice of at least 25% of the other delegates.

It doesn't take an Albert Einstein to figure out how we can surprise the pundits and turn this race upside down!

Just to put this all in perspective, in 2004, both Kerry and Edwards did 10-12% better than the final polls showed. If that happens to us -- we win.

But we've got to have the resources here to pull this off! Help us NOW and be one of the people who aren't surprised when Bill Richardson muscles his way to the top on Thursday!

To an outsider, it might look like chaos here. But what I see is the culmination of nine months of hard work by all of us -- and you, %%FIRSTNAME(Friend)%%.

Thanks for everything you've done up to now. And please, help us get this done!

Dave

P.S. A group of national supporters have stepped up and offered to DOUBLE ANY CONTRIBUTIONS we receive by midnight tonight! Please help NOW!

"The Only Heavy-Weight"

Seth Tanner — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 10:17:19 MST

The Conway Daily Sun endorsed Governor Richardson today. They write:

Bill Richardson, the only heavy-weight in bout for Democratic nomination
Sen. Joe Biden, a contender for the Democratic presidential nomination, said in a recent interview that if it weren't for Iowa and New Hampshire, the candidate with the most money would always win.
Retail politics works. And it's not overstating it to say that because N.H. voters see, hear and meet the candidates in person, we are better informed than voters in the rest of country, who rely primarily on electronic media.
The result: N.H. voters often pick winners, and if not winners, candidates who, in hindsight, should have won. How much better off would the Republican Party-and the United States-be today if the rest of the country had followed New Hampshire eight years ago and elected
Sen. John McCain?
In 2000, the Sun was the only newspaper in New Hampshire to endorse McCain in the Republican primary. In 2004, we supported Gen. Wesley Clark over Sen. John Kerry in the Democratic primary. Granted, neither won, but we feel as good about those selections today as we did then.
We live in a world where Russia's leader may rewrite his country's constitution to maintain power, and where violence is often the political tool of choice, as in much of the Middle East. It is remarkable, and a testament to the strength of this country, that the next leader of the free world understands the real power of this country is in its people, and the path to the White House includes running the gauntlet at little N.H. newspapers like the Sun.
The editorial staff of the Sun is extraordinarily fortunate to have had exclusive access to the candidates. Without handlers at their sides or the national media butting in, most of the candidates have given our eight writers and editors an hour to engage in freewheeling question-and-answer exchanges.
Our staff takes seriously its bit part in selecting the next president. It is impossible to completely discount the "electability" factor and screen out mainstream media, but each of us weighs heavily what we observe in these editorial board interviews.
In our opinion, this year's Democrats are stronger than we've ever seen, and out of three that we believe could be good presidents, we endorse N.M. Gov. Bill Richardson.
It boils down to this: Sen. Barack Obama and former Sen. John Edwards are clearly highly principled people of integrity, and in another race the Sun would have supported one of them.
While Obama and Edwards have the big media budgets, neither has the experience of Richardson. And as for Hillary Clinton, this is what fringe candidate and straight-talking former Sen. Mike Gravel says.
"The Clintons should read the Constitution, eight years is all they get."
A handful of years as senator for each of them simply does not stack up to Richardson's powerful resume as a former congressman, energy secretary, U.N. ambassador, and now, governor of New Mexico.
Like our own Gov. John Lynch, Richardson is a big hit in his home state, where he is considered one of the nation's most environmentally-conscious governors. In New Mexico, he has raised the minimum wage, given all children under 5 access to health insurance, cut taxes and is pro-business.
On the national level, his experience negotiating with bad boys like Saddam Hussein, Fidel Castro and the North Koreans is world-renowned. Richardson gained the reputation as Pres. Bill Clinton's top international troubleshooter, and during the '90s humorously referred to himself as the "undersecretary of thugs." His success as a negotiator also earned him four nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Richardson has heavyweight credentials for a heavyweight job; Obama, Edwards and Clinton, by comparison, have barely found their way into the ring.
The knock against Richardson is that he doesn't have the dynamic personality of Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton, although in person he's funny and engaging. Asked about this rap and to compare himself to Bill Clinton, Richardson says, "Yes, Clinton can electrify a room, but I can get it done." We're convinced he can, and we ask you to join us in voting for him.
To learn more about Richardson, read the Albuquerque Journal's comprehensive series on his life and career at www.abqjournal.com/richardson.

Your Job

Seth Tanner — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 14:56:20 MST

From campaign manager Dave Contarino

Out here in Iowa it feels like we're in the middle of a whirlwind -- there is so much going on, and so much to do in the 8 days leading up to the Iowa caucuses.
Our number one job here on the ground right now is talking directly to Iowans -- telling them about the Govenor's strong positions on ending the war, starting a new energy revolution, and creating new jobs in new sectors to support middle class families.
And the best way to get that message is across is person-to-person.
Just this morning hundreds of Richardson Roadrunners left New Mexico to join us up here in this last sprint to the caucuses. They came because they personally know how New Mexico has surged ahead under Governor Richardson's leadership.
You also have something to offer that will be a huge help for us here on the ground -- even if you can't make it to Iowa this week. There are still many people who don't really know the Governor, or his positions -- we are narrowing that number every day, but some people are only focusing now. But you do -- you know where he stands, and why you support him -- whether it is for his stance on ending war, his record of creating jobs, or his extensive diplomatic experience. Now we need you to share that with Iowa caucus-goers.
We have built an online tool to allow people to phone Iowa voters and talk to them about the issues and the Governor's record. These are critical contacts in these last few days as undecided caucus-goers are making up their minds.
And, you can make these calls on your own time, at your own pace, from your own home. It is easy, with the scripts, tips, and the answer responses all built in.
Go to http://www.richardsonforpresident.com/calliowa now and get your first people to call.
We have a lot of people to reach, and now you can help us get to a few more.
Thank you for all your help.
Talk to you soon--
Dave

You should be here!

Seth Tanner — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:42:51 MST

Campaign Manager Dave Contarino sent the following to supporters across the country today.

I wish you could see this! You just wouldn't believe what's going on here in Iowa.
Right now, while Amanda's running around getting ready for our rally in Independence, I can hear the crowd shouting "We want Bill! We want Bill!"
We're getting huge crowds and packing houses everywhere we go. We've signed up 40 more volunteers today alone. Yesterday while campaigning in Hanover, NH the Governor even convinced one woman to vote absentee for him on the spot!
This is what we've been working for all year. You can feel the grassroots momentum taking over. People are literally flocking to the Governor.
But we've got just 14 days. 14 days to reach every caucus-goer in Iowa.
14 days to launch everything in our arsenal and win this nomination. You've got us this far -- now I need you to keep it up with $50, $100 or $250.
As the Governor says, "Iowans are known for making up their minds at the last minute." Right now, 50% of Iowa voters aren't sure who they are voting for.
Those are votes we can win.
Every time someone learns about Bill Richardson's proven leadership and experience, they decide to support him. And every single time we run a new ad, the Governor surges in the polls.
Check out our new ad showing voters the difference between the Governor and the other candidates on Iraq. We want to show caucus-goers there's only one candidate ready to bring ALL our troops home. The other major candidates won't even commit to getting our troops out of Iraq by 2013. That's over 5 years away!
So in these last 14 days, my job is to get this ad seen by as many folks as possible. And I'm counting on you to do your job and help me make that happen.
That's why I'm asking you to give at least $50 or $100 so we can continue to buy airtime in Iowa and New Hampshire.
Friend, you signed up for this, and you've been behind us all year. Thanks to you, we've hit every target we've set.
But to keep up this momentum we've got to meet our goal of $400,000 by raising $20,000 every day between now and Jan. 3.
It's the only way we can keep this campaign running full tilt. And it's the only way we will win Iowa. Then the real race begins. I know we can do it.
Throw in $50, $100 or $250 NOW so we can show this ad to tens of thousands more voters before the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary.
Wow, the crowd outside is really going wild! Amanda's flagging me down, so I'm going to head out to the rally now. Then I'm going to call some more local TV stations about airing this ad.
I'll keep you posted.
Dave

Live Chat with National Disabilities Spokesperson Cody Unser Tomorrow Night

Seth Tanner — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 18:55:25 MST

Tomorrow afternoon, Cody Unser will unveil the Governor's National Disability Policy, in a live video chat. You can learn more about participating from the email she just sent out to our supporters:

Dear Friend,

My name is Cody Unser. My last name may sound familiar to you -- I come from a family of racecar drivers with nine Indianapolis 500 wins. My father Al Unser Jr., grandfather Al Unser Sr., and great uncle Bobby Unser Sr. are racing legends. But, today, I write to you about a completely different kind of race.

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson has asked me to be the National Disabilities Spokesperson for his presidential campaign, and I want to invite you to join me in an online video chat as I unveil his new disabilities policy. Please join the conversation online, where I will lay out the policy and answer any questions you submit.

The chat will take place Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 6:00 PM CT. Please Join Me.

You may ask why Governor Richardson asked me to act as a spokesperson for his campaign. When I was 12 I was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, a neurological condition that causes inflammation of the spinal cord. I have been in a wheelchair ever since -- I understand the importance of building awareness about Transverse Myelitis and other debilitating diseases, promoting research, and improving Quality of Life programs for others living with disabilities. And Governor Richardson has proven to me that he understands as well.

As Governor of my home state of New Mexico, Governor Richardson has fought for persons with disabilities. And, after reading his policy, I am proud to join him in his race for the White House.

Please join me online Sunday at 6:00 PM CST to see exactly why I am proud to be part of the campaign and to present Governor Richardson's policy.

http://action.richardsonforpresident.com/codyunserchat

I really do believe in Governor Richardson, and I know he has the experience to bring Washington together for the good of the disabled community and our entire country. So much so that I am flying to Iowa after I finish my last final at the University of Redlands here in California. Tomorrow evening, I will be in the Richardson for President field office in Marshalltown, IA, for the live video chat.

I hope you join me, no matter what city you are in.

http://action.richardsonforpresident.com/codyunserchat

Thank you so much,

Cody Unser

P.S. It's my first live video chat. It should be fun! Join me Sunday, December 16th at 7 PM ET, 6 PM CT, 5 PM MT and 4 PM PT.

To read my full bio click here.

Foresight is 20/20

Seth Tanner — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:52:47 MST

Campaign Manager Dave Contarino sent this out this afternoon.

Dear Friend,
While the national media was focused on the spat between Senators Clinton and Obama at last night's debate in Iowa, Bill Richardson showed that he is a true leader.
People who know politics know that the real story is with the Governor.
John Garcia put it this way in the Huffington Post:
"A lot of people would have you believe that the Democratic nominee for 2008 is a foregone conclusion. I traveled across Iowa and New Hampshire with Governor Bill Richardson over the last few weeks and can tell you that this is not the case. I know that, in spite of what various polls and political pundits tell us, most people in Iowa and New Hampshire have not yet made their final decision on which candidate they will support in the primary and the caucus and that the same is likely true for voters all across the Country."
That means it's up to you, me and every other Bill Richardson supporter to get the Governor's message in front of every voter in Iowa and New Hampshire.
And based on the plan that's sitting in front of me right now, that's going to take an additional $400,000 between now and January 3.
That means we need to raise $20,000 a day for the next 20 days! Support our volunteers, media and ground operation with $50, $100 or $250!
I was on the phone with Rob Becker, our Iowa State Campaign Director, first thing this morning. He's very excited about the strength of our field operation in Iowa -- 15 field offices, 70 organizers and hundreds and hundreds of volunteers -- but he needs more.
"People don't understand how fluid this is," he told me. "We see it. We're out there every day. Voters are nervous about what will happen with Clinton or Obama as the candidate. And they see Richardson as the safe bet against the Republican "Swift Boat" machine."
I've got volunteers ready to go to Iowa and New Hampshire to help Rob and his people out. But it costs money to get them there, to house them, and to feed them.
I know you'd love to be there. But if you can sustain another volunteer's efforts, it's just as good. Help us support Rob Becker and the rest of Bill Richardson's Iowa team!
This has been a long haul. And we're not there yet. But I feel good about where we are and what can happen between now and January 3.
We have a conference call with all of the state directors across the country in 10 minutes. Please give immediately so I can tell them that you're in.
Dave

Change of Plans

Seth Tanner — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 17:01:13 MST

Campaign Manager Dave Contarino sent this out to supporters across the country today.

Dear Friend,

I just waved goodbye to the third vanload of volunteers leaving Albuquerque for Iowa today. Tomorrow we're sending more people to New Hampshire. They are all part of the plan we finalized over the weekend.
I don't know how much you paid attention over the holiday, but things have changed a lot since last Wednesday.
The race is flattening out. The poll numbers are in flux. And the only candidate who has gained consistently in all polls is Bill Richardson.
We're ramping up aggressively to pick up that momentum but we need $50,000 between now and Friday to cover the additional costs of shipping out the volunteers. Help us with $50, $100 or even $250 and watch the poll numbers move even more.
The Nation put it this way: "The action is with New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson."
"If the pattern holds, the New Mexican will easily overtake Edwards and could begin closing in on Obama by the time New Hampshire holds its first in the nation primary.
It is worth noting that, according to the polls, Richardson is now viewed as more experienced than either Obama or Edwards by the New Hampshire voters. His numbers are dramatically up in other categories, as well, especially on measures of trust -- the New Mexican now leads Clinton in this category.
Richardson's move into double digits in New Hampshire parallels his under-covered rise in the first caucus state of Iowa. While much of the discussion about recent polls from that state has focused on the news that Obama has moved narrowly ahead of Clinton -- they are actually in a statistical tie -- some of the most interesting movement in the first-caucus state has been toward Richardson."
Believe it, friend.
Momentum like this can turn into a juggernaut with the right kind of push. We're already ahead of where Kerry was in 2004 -- and we're still moving up.
We're launching strong new ads in Iowa and New Hampshire. You can view them by clicking here.
Every time we've run new spots, our poll numbers have moved up. And we have every reason to expect it to happen again.
All of this will cost an additional $250,000. And we only have four days to raise it. Your $50, $100 or $250 makes a real difference in our ability to match the Clinton and Obama media machines.
Let me put it in perspective. Every one of these volunteers costs us $310 per week to house and feed. But that person is going to knock on hundreds of doors, distribute 1,000 pieces of literature, and talk to 2,500 voters. And with the $200,000 in new ads, some 50,000 more voters will hear our message.
You know that if we nominate the wrong Democrat, they're going to Swift Boat us all over again. And that means another George Bush in the White House.
Only strong action by determined Democrats can change that outcome.
I just got a phone call that one of our buses broke down just south of Wichita. I'm going to tell them that help is on the way.
Dave
Campaign Manager

Post Debate Open Thread

Seth Tanner — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 20:40:02 MST

What did you think about the debate?

Also, if you want to vote for Governor Richardson online, you can vote for him here, or here.

Happy Birthday Governor Richardson!

Seth Tanner — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:25:18 MST

Today is Governor Richardson's 60th birthday. Here are small sample of the thousands of birthday wishes we'll be delivering to him tonight.

Best wishes for a wonderful day! I will be watching you tonight in the debate & will be sending lots of well wishes your way.....
-- Jana S., from Dallas, TX

"Have a great Birthday! You did a great job at the Jefferson Jackson Dinner here in Des Moines. We want to hear and see more of you!
-- Jan H from Des Moines, IA

Howdy (Hey from the South, that is South Carolina) Happy Birthday....from a republican who likes your ideas, zest for life, and principles....Not to mention your track record...May you have a wonderful birthday this year and many to come.
-- Teresa R from York, SC

You go BILL! Have a great birthday. Good luck at the debate, in the primaries, the general election, and all your future endeavors!!
-- Jacquie J, from Belton, MO

Best wishes on your birthday, Mr. Richardson! We in Waterloo are working very hard to make sure that next year, your birthday present is getting elected the President of the United States!
-- Kyrston P from Waterloo, IA

Hopefully for your next birthday you will be the President-elect. We think you are the best! Good Luck and give 'em hell!
-- Lou & Bill M from Larchmont, NY

Happy Birthday, Govenor,
I truly believe that what you have to offer as President is what this country needs. I have never worked for a candidate before but feel strongly that we need you now and will work to get your message out.
-- Ruth P from Charlestown, NH

Governor Richardson--happy birthday and all best to you. You are the best qualified candidate to lead our country and I pray you get the opportunity to do so. Wishing you the best in life and in the campaign.
-- Kent A from Oklahoma City, OK

Glad you're spending your birthday here with us in Nevada! Hope the next one is a little futher East... Congratulations!
-- Brenda H from Winnemucca, NV

Click here to add your birthday wishes.

5th Nobel Peace Prize Nomination

Seth Tanner — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:58:35 MST

Governor Richardson was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize today, his fifth nomination since 1995, for the work he has done to improve the situations in North Korea and Darfur.

From Congressman Bart Gordon's Office.

U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon nominated New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson for the 2008 Nobel Peace Prize in honor of the governor's humanitarian efforts in North Korea and Sudan. The nomination was co-signed by 12 Democratic and Republican members of Congress.
"We live in a volatile world, but people like Bill Richardson are reaching out through diplomatic efforts to reduce those tensions," said Gordon. "He has worked tirelessly during his 22 years of public service, and his efforts this year alone are certainly worthy of this high recognition."

In January, Richardson, at the request of the Save Darfur Coalition, made his third trip to Sudan. There, he met with President Al-Bashir and representatives from rebel groups, the United Nations and other international agencies. Richardson was able to broker a fragile peace accord, which did not stand the test of time and mutual bad faith.
"I was privileged to see Bill Richardson's unique combination of personal courage and negotiating savvy in play in early 2007 when he traveled to Khartoum and Darfur, at our request, to see if he could spark a serious peace process between the Government and rebels, and achieve agreement on the ceasefire without which a peace process would be hard to sustain," wrote Ambassador Rossin, Senior International Coordinator of the Save Darfur Coalition, and former UN Assistant Secretary in his letter of support.
....
In April, Richardson traveled to North Korea to recover the remains of six U.S. servicemen killed during the Korean War. He took that opportunity to ask Bush Administration officials to join the mission in order to restart the nuclear disarmament process. It was Richardson's sixth diplomatic mission to North Korea.

"Through his sincere moral commitment and skillful diplomacy, Bill Richardson has successfully negotiated the release of hostages in North Korea, Iraq, Cuba, Sudan and most recently his travels led him to North Korea to recover the remains of US Servicemen killed during the Korean War," said Anthony J. Principi, former Secretary of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs under President Bush, in his letter of support.

Click here to read the release and for copies of the letters sent to the Nobel Committee.

Concord Monitor Profiles Barbara Richardson

Seth Tanner — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 11:38:35 MST

Along for the ride, but choosing her role

Barbara Richardson can trace her current circumstances to the black velvet sombrero that appeared on her parents' doorstep in Concord, Mass., one day in early 1966, an offbeat gift from a boy destined to make her life unpredictable.
The hat - and the love note tucked inside - came from Bill Richardson, a student at the local prep school who'd been smitten with her since she'd offered him a ride a few months before. He picked up the sombrero on a visit home to his family in Mexico City and used it to launch a relationship that that would take the couple to Congress and the United Nations, to the New Mexico State House and, most recently, onto the presidential campaign trail.
"I think she knew it was going to be a very interesting life," said Claire Bean, Barbara Richardson's college roommate who now lives in Jaffrey. "I'm not sure she really thought they were going to go this far, though."