Kleeb Launches "Building a Better Nebraska Tour"
Wed, Jul 30 03:30 PM CST
The Kleeb campaign launched its Building a Better Nebraska Tour yesterday by holding a discussion with veterans.
Saline County Convention
Wed, Jun 4 09:54 AM CST
About 75 Democrats crowded into a small room at the Saline County Courthouse last night. The building’s air conditioning wasn’t working, but everyone stayed to elect county party officers, delegates to state convention, and develop a plan for success in this year’s election.
Jefferson County Convention
Tue, Jun 3 04:54 PM CST
On Sunday night, I headed to Fairbury to attend the Jefferson County Convention.
On the Road: Caucus Training in the First District
Sun, Jan 27 10:04 PM CST
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been criss-crossing the First District helping County Parties get ready for the caucus.
From the Road: Valley
Fri, Jan 11 10:16 AM CST
Last night I attended a caucus training in Valley, NE, in western Douglas County. The event drew a crowd of over thirty people to Valley’s City Hall!
From the Road: Douglas County All Caucus Volunteer Meeting
Thu, Dec 6 03:58 PM CST
From the Road: Sarpy County Democrats
Thu, Nov 29 01:08 PM CST
About 40 Sarpy County Democrats turned out to learn about our upcoming Presidential caucus, some who had never been to a Sarpy County meeting before.
House Party Wrap-Up
Mon, Nov 12 11:08 AM CST
This past week, Democrats across Nebraska gathered in the homes of fellow Democrats to celebrate One Year Out from Election Day, 2008.
Senator Gail Kopplin Kick-Off
Thu, Nov 8 09:32 AM CST
Last night I attended State Senator Gail Kopplin’s kick-off for his re-election campaign for Legislative District 3.
Grassroots Academy: Gering
Mon, Oct 22 03:21 PM CST
Yesterday, more than 20 Democrats in the panhandle braved the cold and the wind to get together at the Gering Public Library for our Grassroots Academy training. We had four counties represented: Scotts Bluff, Kimball, Morrill, and Sioux.
Grassroots Academy Wrap-Up: Omaha
Fri, Oct 19 09:34 AM CST
Even though it was a rainy Thursday evening, Democratic activists and party leaders gathered at the IBEW Union Hall in Omaha to discuss our party’s field strategy.
Grassroots Academy Wrap-Up: Norfolk and Fremont
Mon, Oct 15 10:56 AM CST
Thanks to everyone who came to one of the Grassroots Academy trainings in Fremont and Norfolk on Sunday.
2007 Harkin Steak Fry
Mon, Sep 17 09:04 AM CST
Yesterday, Clara and I went to the 30th Annual Harkin Steak Fry in Indianola, Iowa.
Jeremy Nordquist Kicks Off in LD 7
Mon, Sep 10 08:13 AM CST
The first of six open legislative seats in the 2nd Congressional District officially has a Democratic candidate.
Douglas County Launches Caucus with News Conference
Wed, Sep 5 03:47 PM CST
Today, Matt and I attended the Douglas County Democratic Party’s news conference held at the Omaha Press Club.
Anne Boyle Announces Re-Election Bid for Nebraska Public Service Commission
Tue, Sep 4 12:57 PM CST
Surrounded by friends, family, and supporters, Anne Boyle held a press conference on Monday to announce her re-election campaign for the Nebraska Public Service Commission. Boyle, who was elected as Public Service Commissioner in 1996 and re-elected in 2002, currently represents District 2 covering most of Omaha.
Live from DLI
Sat, Aug 18 10:07 AM CST
We reconvened at Creighton University this morning at 9:00. There is definitely a sense of excitement as these active Democrats come together to build our Party and represent our values in elected offices.
Friday Night at DLI
Fri, Aug 17 06:56 PM CST
Tonight we kicked off the Democratic Leadership Institute at Creighton Law School in Omaha.
On the Road: Seward County
Fri, Aug 3 09:17 AM CST
Last night, I headed west to the Fourth of July City to meet with the Seward County Democrats.
From the Road: Cleaning up in Hastings
Mon, Jul 30 10:51 AM CST
We had a great turnout with almost 50 folks showing up in Hastings, Nebraska. We even had a few Republicans stopping by in amazement that we were cleaning up the park-one of them even stopped and joked that he was “going to collect rent checks but would send us a check for doing good work.”
From The Road: A Democratic Reunion In Pictures
Mon, Jul 30 08:39 AM CST
Thank you to everyone who helped over the weekend at one of the Democratic Reunion community service events across the state.
From the Road: YDA Convention Recap
Tue, Jul 24 12:27 PM CST
Nebraska Young Democrats had a lot of fun and a lot of success at the YDA National Convention in Dallas, TX this past weekend. Unfortunately, our efforts to blog live from the Convention ran into some technical difficulties that made it impossible for us to involve “Blog for Nebraska” readers in the excitement as we’d intended. But, Eric has kindly given me this opportunity to offer a recap of our adventures and accomplishments.
From the Road: YDA Convention in Dallas
Fri, Jul 20 07:44 PM CST
After waking up and getting ready, I started the day with a bright smile and a spirit of Democratic adventure. I ventured out of the room to different caucus meetings to find out all that YDA could offer. I experienced rousing and exciting meetings propelling the organization forward with special causes. I considered even running for a position on the College Caucus. Since this is my first convention and since I’m so new to YDA, I have been reconsidering that notion. I then attended trainings concerning the war in Iraq and Climate Change. They were both very interesting and informative. I was invited to a youth climate change gathering in Washington D.C. in January called PowerShift.
Live from Dallas
Wed, Jul 18 09:14 AM CST
This week, twelve Nebraska Young Democrats are traveling to Dallas, Texas as delegates to the Young Democrats of America 2007 Convention. Through the weekend, we’ll be submitting updates to the NDPs “Blog for Nebraska” as our members hear from Presidential candidates, attend panel discussions on everything from immigration to the war in Iraq, build the Platform that will guide Young Democrats through the 2008 elections, and – of course – enjoy the nightlife of downtown Dallas in the company of great Democrats from across the country.
Trip Back West
Wed, Jul 4 11:22 AM CST
I had the wonderful opportunity to travel out to Western Nebraska again last week. I made trips to Benkelman, Ogallala, Harrison, Chadron, and Alliance, and I talked with local Democrats about the up coming caucus and getting organized. I am amazed at the distinct beauty of Western Nebraska, and I wished that I had the time to just sit and watch. Unfortunately, I did not have time for that. Everywhere I went; people seemed excited about the opportunity for Nebraska to have a voice in the election of our Presidential candidate. Our caucus has the possibility of being the spring that catapults our candidate towards that National Convention in Denver.
Douglas County Party Open House
Sat, Jun 30 04:43 PM CST
On Thursday, June 28, I attended the Douglas County Democratic Party’s Open House at the new headquarters, 7148 Pacific Street in Omaha.
Audio of Senator Kerrey's Speech
Sun, Jun 24 11:39 PM CST
In case you couldn’t join us for this year’s Morrison-Exon Dinner in Omaha or if you were there and would like to hear it again, we’re pleased to present the audio of Senator Kerrey’s speech.
From the Road: YDA Spring Conference
Mon, May 21 02:59 PM CST
In Omaha last weekend, the Young Democrats of America held its annual Spring Conference. Young Democrats from throughout the United States came to gather and talk about issues, meet new people, and experience the “Good Life” here in Nebraska. It was hosted by the Nebraska Young Democrats, and they did an excellent job putting the event together.
Young Democrats Pay Tribute to the Fallen
Tue, Apr 24 09:34 AM CST
Young Democrats from the University of Nebraska – Omaha kicked off their second annual “Tribute to the Fallen” this morning.
Promoting the General Welfare
Mon, Apr 23 04:16 PM CST
I had the privilege of attending the 8th Annual Promoting the General Welfare Conference held at University of Nebraska, Omaha. This one day conference examined issues of social and economic justice, and was attended by members of labor unions, a few students, and myself. John Kretzschmar from the William Brennan Institute for Labor Studies hosted the event, and he had two guest speakers and three workshop speakers.
From the Road: Gering
Mon, Apr 16 08:54 AM CST
The last stop of our trip through greater Nebraska was to Scotts Bluff County, and we were well received. For me, it felt good to be home and see familiar faces. Area Democrats are already getting ready for the caucus in February. They are actively recruiting precinct coordinators and are ready to get the ball rolling.
NYD Convention
Mon, Apr 16 08:30 AM CST
I had the good fortune of attending the Nebraska Young Democrats State Convention at Doane College on Saturday.
From the Road: Lexington and Alliance
Sun, Apr 15 08:07 AM CST
Our next stop was in Dawson County for a morning meeting. It was at Kirks on the interstate, and we had some great homemade cooking. We received a warm reception, and I am starting to learn people’s names and see familiar faces.
From the Road: Kearney
Sat, Apr 14 01:12 PM CST
Our second stop on our western swing was in Kearney for a meet and greet. We gathered at Platte Valley Brewery, and Matt had a chance to talk one on one with our fellow Democrats. Matt and I really enjoy getting out and seeing familiar faces, and we also are encouraged by having new people come up and talk with us.
Matt Connealy Heads West
Fri, Apr 13 02:51 PM CST
NDP’s Executive Director, Matt Connealy, was in North Platte last night for the Neville Dinner. The dinner is in honor of Keith Neville who was a citizen of North Platte and lifelong Democrat.
3rd District Meetings
Fri, Mar 30 02:09 PM CST
I had the wonderful opportunity to head down to Crete for the Saline County meeting Tuesday evening. I also visited Kearney for the Buffalo County meeting Thursday evening. Again, I received a warm welcome from 3rd District Democrats. I am grateful for the reception I have received by people of the 3rd District, and it makes my job a lot easier knowing that people are willing to go that extra mile to include me in the efforts at the county level.
NYD Poker Tournament
Mon, Mar 5 10:40 AM CST
The Nebraska Young Democrats held a fundraiser on Saturday night to help fund their efforts to elect Chris Beutler and preserve the Democratic majority in the Lincoln City Council.
From the Road - Buffalo County
Wed, Feb 28 01:36 PM CST
Last night Matt Connealy and I attended a Volunteer Recognition event in Buffalo County. It was great to see about 40 people show up for the event, and I was able to meet some people that I had only talked to on the phone. People from other counties even showed up to pay tribute to the efforts of the “backbone” of the campaign. They gave out awards to some of the volunteers, and everyone seemed to enjoy the memories of the past election.
On the Road: Douglas County
Fri, Feb 23 10:10 AM CST
Last night I headed east to the Douglas County Central Committee meeting. About 50 Democrats came to the local headquarters to talk about issues affecting the Party, including how we can begin to organize the county’s 354 precincts for next February’s caucuses. I could sense a lot of excitement for our Presidential candidates as well as the new way Nebraska Democrats will be voicing their preference.
From the Road: Saunders County
Mon, Feb 12 10:22 AM CST
Yesterday, Matt and I stopped by Wahoo to meet with County Chair LaVerne Barrett, precinct captains, and other members of the Saunders County Democratic Party to discuss what county parties can do to build on the momentum created last year.
From the Road: Jackson Hole, WY (Continued)
Sat, Nov 18 06:20 PM CST
Greetings again from Jackson Hole! In case you missed yesterday’s post, we’re here for the Association of Democratic State Chairs (ASDC) fall meeting.
From the Road: Jackson Hole, WY
Fri, Nov 17 04:37 PM CST
I’m blogging live from the Association of State Democratic Chairs (ASDC) fall meeting in Jackson Hole, WY.
From the Road: McCook
Mon, Sep 25 12:06 PM CST
It was another busy weekend throughout the state, with festivals, parades, and fundraisers happening all over.
We received several items from McCook – where the annual “Heritage Days” festival and parade took place on Saturday. Here’s a video put together by Elisia Harvey showing the great display and enthusiasm for Red Willow County Democrats.
From the Road: 2006 State Convention
Sat, Aug 19 04:59 PM CST
We’ve concluded our business for the day here in Grand Island. I don’t think anyone will disagree – this has been a convention to remember – and we’re not even finished yet.
From the Road: Saline County Convention
Wed, Jun 7 08:44 PM CST
Last night, I joined the Saline County Democrats for their County Convention, and there wasn’t an empty seat in the entire room! They had an All-Star cast visiting their Convention: David Hahn, Scott Kleeb, National Committeeman Vince Powers, Roger Foster Candidate for Ward 1 in Crete, and Legislative Candidate Russ Karpisek.
“There’s more...
From the Road: Lancaster County Convention
Wed, Jun 7 02:46 PM CST
Tuesday night Lancaster Democrats gathered for their County Convention. Prior to the business meeting, delegates had an opportunity to mingle with each other and with candidates over dinner. A special message from Howard Dean, the DNC Chair, was shown for delegates outlining his goals for this election cycle and detailing the success of our 93 County Strategy.
From the Road: Touring Southeast Nebraska
Tue, Jun 6 09:44 AM CST
This weekend, I went back to my roots. I traveled throughout Southeast Nebraska for Conventions. The weekend kicked off in my hometown of Falls City where Richardson County Democrats gathered for the County Convention. Candidate Maxine Moul, a Representative for David Hahn, and the NDP National Committeewoman, Kathleen Fahey energized the Democrats in Richardson and the momentum from that Convention did not cease while traveling throughout Southeast. Doug Merz, County Chair, was proud of the turnout in Richardson and was ecstatic to see representation from the Nebraska Democratic Party and from local, statewide, and national campaigns.
From the Road: Washington County Convention
Tue, Jun 6 09:25 AM CST
Monday night marked the halfway point in the County Conventions: 5 days down, 5 more to go! There is still time to sign up and attend your County Convention, just visit our event center to get more information on one in your area.
There’s more…From the Road: Lincoln and Phelps Counties
Sun, Jun 4 05:00 PM CST
County conventions continue throughout the state. Today, I heard from folks in Lincoln and Phelps county.
From the Road: Seward County Convention
Fri, Jun 2 10:56 AM CST
Last night the County Conventions kicked off with Conventions in Garfield, Seward, Wayne, Cedar, Antelope, Knox, Lincoln, and Nuckolls Counties. We had great turnout for the Conventions, including many who had never attended a County Convention.
Blogging from the Road: Knox, Cedar and Wayne Counties
Fri, Jun 2 09:05 AM CST
It’s easy to forget how beautiful your state is. I’ve been spending so much time on I-80 and in Lincoln and Omaha that I was glad to be reminded of the rich natural beauty of Nebraska yesterday, as I drove to three rural counties in the Northeast corner of the state.
I nearly hit a quail with my car. Two seconds later, a deer decided to join the fun.
On the Road: County Conventions
Thu, Jun 1 09:04 AM CST
Several of us are hitting the road starting today, traveling to county conventions throughout the state. I’ll be in Knox, Cedar and Wayne counties tonight. Tomorrow I’ll be in Thurston county. I’m really looking forward to getting out and meeting the folks on the ground who are making the 93 County Strategy a reality. I’ll share some photos and thoughts from the road tomorrow.
David Hahn on Rural Nebraska
Mon, Feb 27 02:32 PM CST
Hear Democratic candidate David Hahn’s thoughts on rural issues affecting Nebraska. The Center for Rural Affairs Gubernatorial Candidate Forum will be broadcast this evening on Nebraska Public Radio, FM 91.1, from 6:30 – 8:30 pm.
Find out more about David at his website, www.HahnForNebraska.org.
Ready for Action at UNL
Wed, Feb 1 10:30 PM CST
As President George W. Bush delivered his State of the Union address Tuesday night, something special was happening in the state of Nebraska at UNLs student union. There was a lot more truth, a lot more energy, and a lot more hope on campus than in the halls of Congress as 55 UNL Young Democrats gathered with their special guest, Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Hahn, to celebrate their 2006 kick-off.
On the Road - Dawson County
Tue, Jan 10 10:29 AM CST
This past Friday I joined the Dawson County Democrats for a meal and their monthly meeting held this month in Sumner at Tub’s Pub. I’d been told the food was excellent, and it was. During dinner I talked with several Democrats at my table who express frustration with the direction the Republicans are taking our state and country and optimism that the November 2006 election would take the country in a new direction with the Democrats at the helm. Democrats in Dawson County aren’t content to just talk about change, they are ready to go out and make it happen.
Kearney Grassroots Academy
Mon, Oct 24 04:48 PM CST
This weekend was met with another of our Grassroots Academies. We met at UNK with people from Buffalo, Phelps, Kearney, and Dawson Counties.
Our staff at the Nebraska Democratic Party spoke to the crowd about different ways to get involved in the party. Amanda gave a session on how to write a good letter to the editor. Heath talked about our 93 county strategy and how we can best build a Democratic community in Nebraska. Ian gave an intro to running for office and also spoke about how to best reach out to voters. I gave a talk about volunteering and an impromptu session on phone-banking.
Overall, the training was a great success and our question/answer period proved the great interest level of the attendees. It’s always exciting to meet people who have a strong will to help out and give of themselves.
Following the training, we joined the Buffalo County Democrats for their Fall Fundraiser. Jeanne Butler did an amazing job coordinating the events and had a wonderful meal prepared. We even had a visit from candidates Scott Kleeb and Larry Harvey.
To help the NDP provide FREE Grassroots Academies, you can contribute here.
On the Road: Cass County
Mon, Oct 3 04:20 PM CST
I met with people from across Cass County to brainstorm ways to best organize our Democrats there. Julie Baer, the Cass County Chair, spoke to the group about the need to involve everyone in their community – regardless of age, social status, or profession. As a result, the group decided to hold a Fall BBQ near Plattsmouth on October 22. You can RSVP here. It should be a wonderful event with activities for all ages.
A suggestion was made for the group to actively write letters to the editor in the neighboring papers. This can be a great medium to positively combat some of the perceptions people have of the Democratic Party and an easy way to recognize the good things our locally elected Democrats are doing in our communities. If you need talking points on any issue, you can find them in our Communications Center.
Thanks again, Julie, for inviting me to your meeting. Cass County is off to a great start for the 2006 Election Cycle!
Nebraska Hispanic Democrats Open House
Wed, Sep 28 01:22 PM CST
Last night, the NDP staff traveled to Omaha for the Nebraska Hispanic Democrats Open House.
Steve Achelpohl and Barry Rubin opened the evening and told the group about our DNC training in Scottsbluff this past weekend. You can read more about it here. They also talked about steps the NDP has been taking to involve the Spanish-speaking community.
Former Congressman John Cavanaugh addressed the crowd and explained for the past 35 years the Hispanic Community has been a cornerstone in Nebraska politics.
OPS Board Member Mark Martinez ended the program talking about his own experiences running for office and issues the school board has faced recently. He mentioned his strong need to find good Latino candidates and the need to involve the younger generations in politics.
Overall, it was a great event. If you would like information about joining this group, please email me.
On the Road - Sarpy County
Thu, Sep 22 10:18 AM CST
Last night Amanda and I met with the Sarpy County Democrats.
Burke Summers, the County Chair, has been doing great things in Sarpy County and has really turned the party around from a “social club” to an active membership where almost 30 people turned out for the meeting.
Burke gave updates on events in the party and in the labor movement. Amanda and I spoke about what the party is doing and about our upcoming training in Scottsbluff on Saturday. There is still space to attend – you can RSVP here
We heard from people interested in running for local offices in Sarpy County and about some tasks the party is going to undertake in the coming months. It is great to see such an interest from people of all backgrounds, ages, and professions.
Thanks again to Sarpy County for inviting us to your meeting!
From the Road: Washington, D.C.
Fri, Sep 2 10:32 AM CST
Blogging from DC, where I’ve been meeting with national Democratic leaders and organizations in preparation for what promises to be an exciting 2006 election cycle.
Democrats at the Fair - UPDATED!
Wed, Aug 31 08:40 AM CST
The following post was sent to me by Lee Clausen from the State Fair Booth:
The Nebraska Democratic Party booth at the State Fair has been really active the past couple of days. So many Democrats have come by to have their voices be heard and are looking forward to giving feedback on the Nebraska Democratic Party Memo about the 93-County Plan.
It is great to hear the voices supporting Sen. Nelson’s willingness to reach across party lines to get things done. A number of Democrats, Republicans, and Independents have said that they admire the way Sen. Nelson took the lead, in a bold and decisive manner, to avoid partisan squabbling on judicial nominations.
Warm Welcoming in Bellevue
Mon, Aug 29 08:43 AM CST
Senator Nelson was a hit at the Arrows to Aerospace Parade in Bellevue this weekend.
From the Road: Kearney
Fri, Aug 26 08:42 AM CST
Carmyn and I stopped by the Buffalo County Democrats meeting in Kearney last night to get feedback from them on the 93 County Strategy.
3rd Congressional District candidate Scott Kleeb (upper left) visiting with Buffalo County Democrats at their monthly meeting last night. About forty people attended the meeting.
Jeanne Butler, the County Chair, has been working hard to revitalize the county party with the help of dedicated Democrats in the Kearney area. The Buffalo County Democrats meet monthly now, and about forty people showed up for last night’s meeting.
Scott Kleeb, the recently-declared candidate for Congress in the 3rd Congressional District, spoke about his campaign and why he’s running for office. If you haven’t heard about Scott, click here.
The Buffalo County Democrats are on the move. They’ve got alot of work to do: recruit candidates for Kearney’s two City Council seats up in 2006, build up a network to help Democratic candidates win up and down the ballot, and keep the county party growing. Thanks to their hard work, though, the Buffalo County Democrats are well on the way towards building a strong Democratic community in Buffalo County.
From the Road: Antelope County
Fri, Aug 19 09:03 AM CST
Carmyn and I stopped by to talk with the Antelope County Democrats about the 93 County Strategy at their monthly meeting last night in Neligh.
Ian Russell discusses the 93 County Strategy with the Antelope County Democrats.
Barb Ross, the county chair, is working with a dedicated group of folks to rebuild the Democratic Party in this rural area. They’ve started meeting monthly to share ideas and find candidates for local offices.
We talked about where they can find great candidates for local offices: economic development boards, the Chamber of Commerce, community leaders, etc. Since a good name goes along way in a rural area like Antelope County, it’s important to find potential Democratic candidates who are already opinion leaders in small town politics. Barb brought up the fact that many candidates don’t actually campaign for local offices, meaning that we can win them by knocking doors and turning out voters.
Thanks to the hard work of the resurgent Antelope County Democrats, they’ll be new local Democratic elected officials in 2006 and more votes for our statewide candidates.
From the Road: Nance and Dodge Counties
Thu, Aug 18 09:35 AM CST
This week has been a busy one for the field department – and it’s not over yet!
We have spent time traveling to Nance, Dodge, Adams, Wayne, and Cuming Counties meeting with county party activists, chairs, and interested community members.
Kerry, the Nance County Chair spoke of ways her community is getting involved and the potential for a barbeque in the near future. We also heard from Annette Dubas, our candidate for Legislature in 34. She is a wonderful person – I certainly encourage you to attend her kickoff on September 5th at the Loup River Inn in Nance County.
The Dodge County meeting last night was highlighted with a special visit from Steve Achelpohl, the State of the Nebraska Democratic Party. He spoke to the group in part about the new national interest in Nebraska from organizations like the DNC. He talked about issues of importance to the people of Nebraska like finding quality and affordable health care for our children, outsourcing, and agriculture.
Today we are off to Antelope, Merrick and Polk Counties. Stay tuned!
From the Road: Hastings
Wed, Aug 17 09:31 AM CST
I stopped by the Hastings Democratic Meetup to talk with them about the 93 County Strategy and get feedback on what we can do to help them build the party.
Hastings is an important community in central Nebraska. With four city council seats and several county offices up in 2006, it’s important that we begin to build a strong local party that can help elect Democrats to these positions. Also, our statewide candidates will need to do well in this city, since it’s one of the population centers in the area.
The Meetup folks will be working hard over the next few weeks to build up the Democratic community in Hastings: they’re meeting in two weeks to address and handwrite postcards to other Democrats in Hastings, inviting them to the next Meetup, and they’ll be meeting monthly to strategize on implementing the 93 County Strategy in their community.
The Hastings Meetup takes place on the third Tuesday of every month at Blue Moon Coffee on 2nd Street.
From the Road: Scotts Bluff County
Mon, Aug 15 11:06 AM CST
I attended the Scotts Bluff County Democrats’ monthly meeting last night in Gering to discuss the 93 County Strategy and how they can take ownership of it in their community.
In addition to an open State Senate seat, there are numerous local offices in Scotts Bluff County that Democrats can take back in 2006, from city council seats in Scottsbluff and Gering to county board seats, other county offices, and local boards.
The Scotts Bluff County Democrats are also working to find precinct captains and be visible participants in their community. They’ll be at their county fair and other regional festivals.
As part of the 93 County Strategy, we’ll be holding a training in Scottsbluff for Democrats in the panhandle (similar to the training we just held in North Platte). The training will be on September 24. You can sign up for the event here
From the Road: Dakota County
Fri, Aug 12 09:42 AM CST
I met with Dakota County Democrats last night, and had a productive discussion with them about how we can rebuild the Democratic Party in their area.
Dakota County activists strategize how to build the Democratic Party in their area with Ian Russell from the NDP.
Dakota County is one of the few counties in Nebraska that actually has more Democratic than Republican voters – so it makes it an important area for local and statewide candidates. There are quite a few local Democratic elected officials in the county, and in 2006 there will be elections for South Sioux City Mayor and City Council, and Dakota County offices. As the county party continues to grow, they’ll be working on recruiting candidates (or protecting Democratic incumbents) for these offices. Click here to see more information about this county.
As part of our 93 County Strategy, the NDP will be working with the Dakota County Democrats to grow the Democratic community in the South Sioux City and Dakota City areas. Under the leadership of Tim Bahr, the county chairman, the activists in Dakota County seemed ready to roll up their sleeves and go to work: starting next month, they’ll have monthly meetings at a coffee shop in town, they’ll be calling other Democrats to invite them to the meetings, and they’ll be finding candidates to run for office.
Thanks to their hard work, look for new Democratic elected officials and an energized party in Dakota County in 2006.
From the Road: Douglas County
Fri, Aug 12 08:23 AM CST
People representing varying age groups, professions, and backgrounds attended last night’s Meetup in Omaha. For Graham C., it was his first political meeting – a chance to connect with other Democrats in his community. Martha W., a teacher, came because she’s frustrated about what the Republican leadership is doing to our country. Kelli O., who’s been active in the party before, came to meet some new faces in a casual setting. At any rate, we sure had a lot to talk about.
We shared ideas about how to reach out to other members of the community—through emails, postcards, phone calls and door knocking.
One thing was clear—we need to speak up and let the rest of Nebraska know that the Democratic Party is alive and well.
Last night’s Meetup was a great way to meet new faces and to discuss ideas to move the party forward. This will be a regular meeting group on the second Thursday of every month at 7pm at Caffiene Dreams. If you’re in the neighborhood, feel free to drop by. You can sign up for the event here.
From the Road: Lancaster County
Wed, Aug 10 03:00 PM CST
In case you weren’t able to attend last night’s Lincoln Democratic Party Meetup at MoJava Coffee House, I thought I’d transcribe just a few of the notes I took about what the grassroots were saying about the Democratic Party, the “93 County Strategy,” and the 2006 elections.
With the conversation ranging from the 2004 election cycle to running more statewide Democrats in the primary elections to generate more earned media exposure. By the end of the night, the consensus was that the Party has to got to compete for every office in every county possible.
From the Road: Platte County
Wed, Aug 10 02:30 PM CST
Yesterday, Ian and I drove out to Columbus for the Columbus Area Meetup. There, we met with some local activists and talked about how the 93 County Strategy can be applied to their community. Platte County has some interesting races this cycle including the State Senate seat in LD 22, four Board of Supervisors seats and four Columbus City Council Seats.
It was great to see the energy last night from the folks at the meeting and to hear everyone’s ideas: fair booths, back-to-school welcome events, picnics, and a training session in October. This could be the cycle to really put Platte County on the map.
Also on we brainstormed many ways to build up the democratic community in Platte County and to get more people involved. Tom, the Meetup host, mentioned how we can get more Democrats to vote by voting by mail.
It will certainly be exciting to see the progress that Platte County – as well as each of the other 92 counties – makes during the next 15 months. Keep checking back for more updates!
50 States, 93 Counties: Blogging from the DNC
Wed, Jul 20 10:10 PM CST
I’m blogging from Washington, DC, where I’m spending a couple of days at the Democratic National Committee discussing how they’ll be helping us execute our 93 County Strategy.
Organizing in Nebraska is part of the DNC’s plan to build a strong Democratic Party across our country, starting in ‘red states’ like ours. By investing in Nebraska, they’re investing in the future: over the next few months, we’ll be recruiting candidates to run for office up and down the ballot, helping them set up their campaigns – whether they’re running for school board or Congress – and organizing in communities across Nebraska to build a lasting Democratic Party.
Nebraska Farmers Union Convention
Sat, Dec 4 03:12 PM CST
I just returned from the Nebraska Farmers Union Convention in Grand Island, Nebraska. It was a great time. The issues that concern family farmers are very important to our Party as we renew our committment to organizing across the rural areas of our state.
