Matching Donations: Stories from Across the States

June 11, 2008

Yesterday, Deputy Campaign Manager Steve Hildebrand announced that we will be the first campaign in a generation to have a presence in all fifty states. This strategy is designed to empower supporters no matter where they reside and reinforce the fact that every vote, every voice matters. After hearing the news, Kim from California expressed her excitement, and explained why she thinks this strategy will elevate the quality of the political conversation in this country…

I have lived in states that only hear one side of the story and that is a dangerous way for our political discourse to occur — no matter which Party gets to have the entirely captive audience. But, it has been particularly appalling during the last 7+ years of incompetence and outright corruption. Every American should be able to access the facts; no American should be kept in the dark by a dearth of information, a technological divide or a lack of presence by the Democratic Party.

Kim isn’t the only one speaking out. As part of our matching donors program, first time contributors get the chance to exchange notes with past donors who pledged to match their contribution. Many of them have mentioned how Barack’s dedication to voters all across America, and his commitment to changing politics inspired them to get involved.

Todd from Arkansas…

He’s implementing a 50 state strategy, which will force McCain to spend money he doesn’t have in places he would rather not. It also maximizes Obama’s chances of turning some pink states blue. Based on the way Obama’s campaign clearly outmaneuvered the other candidates in the primaries… well before anyone knew it had happened, I’m confident that Obama is implementing a very well thought out strategy. He’s going to out-work and out-organize McCain. These elections are won on the margins. Bringing new people into the process is political gold. That’s where Obama is going to rule.

Paul from New York…

Hey Scott! Just wanted to say keep helping Barack out! The new 50 state strategy is set to work great, and on top of that Obama is already changing the DNC by not accepting lobbyist money. It’s just another great example of how great he will be as President. In fact, I’m about to give to the DNC (something I NEVER thought I’d do) for the first time as well!

Clyde from Wisconsin…

I contributed, despite my extremely limited income, to enthusiastically support a 50 state strategy. Many people (including myself) live in a region that has been essentially abandoned by the Democratic Party because it "can’t win here". The working people here have long been conditioned to accept uncontested elections and to not having a choice to make a change. A party that intends to represent the people (not the super-rich and the corporations) simply cannot allow that.

Kathy from Arizona…

I gave when I saw that all 50 states will have staff and offices to elect Barack. Thanks for caring about our country and our future.

We are on the cusp of shattering our revised goal of 30,000 first time donors over the span of just a few days. Take ownership over this campaign and help ensure that every state is active in the movement for change.