Showing posts with label Congress. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Congress. Show all posts

April 22, 2008

Donna Edwards Wins Montgomery County Central Committee Backing

Kensington, MD--Donna Edwards won the backing of the Montgomery County Democratic Party Central Committee tonight by a vote of 22 to 1. This was a key step leading up to the special election to serve the remaining portion of Rep. Albert Wynn's term in Maryland's 4th Congressional District.

The Prince Georges County Democratic Party Central Committee will hold a similar vote on Thursday, May 24. Both Committees will refer their decisions to the Maryland State Democratic Party Central Committee, which will pass along a recommendation to Governor Martin O'Malley.

This process will determine the Democratic nominee for the June 17th special election in lieu of a special primary election. The Republican Party will determine a nominee through a similar process. Jason Jennings received one vote.

February 17, 2008

Progressive Tidal Wave Sweeps Donna Edwards to Stunning Victory

Democracy For America, Progressive Democrats of America, and other groups and bloggers from across the US helped progressive challenger Donna Edwards win a stunning upset victory against eight-term incumbent Albert Wynn. Despite Wynn's huge advantages in terms of special interest contributions and insider connections, Donna Edwards marshaled support from what Wynn's campaign dismissed as "a vast left-wing conspiracy" to defeat the most conservative member of the Congressional Black Caucus. With 76% of the precincts reporting, Donna led by 60% to 35%, a margin of more than 22,000 votes. Because the 4th district is overwhelmingly Democratic, Donna is a sure bet to win this seat in the November general election.

The DFA team made countless calls for Donna, and also worked at Giant supermarkets, metro stops and door-knocked to help achieve this victory. Democracy for Montgomery County Steering Committee Chairperson Sharon Polidoro and members Maida Schifter, Mike Hersh and Donna's Montgomery County Campaign Organizer Gina Angiola joined in the celebration at the Saturday Rally. DFAer Suzanne St. Cyr from Prince Georges County also attended. Democracy For America Executive Director Jim Dean rode through the Montgomery County part og this sprawling district, meeting voters, waving signs, passing out information about Donna.

Kim Gandy, the President of the National Organization for Women praised Donna's courage and dedication. Hip Hop Coalition President Rev. Lennox Yearwood and PDA National Chairperson Mimi Kennedy fired up the crowd. SEIU Executive Director Terry Cavanagh put the contest in context, recounting his conversation with a member of Congress who wondered "why are you doing this to Al Wynn? There are worse Democrats than Al Wynn." The reply: "Give me some time and maybe we'll think of one." Other supporters spoke of Donna's willingness to listen, her eagerness to help, her goodness, decency, intelligence and more. Jim Dean said this is a contest between "the culture of incumbency vs. the culture of activism." He sounds like a natural partner for PDA, and Mimi discussed issues like election protection with him before and after the rally.

Donna thanked all of us for our support. She told us she's lived in Prince Georges County for 25 years, the county where she raised her son. In a voice worn by weeks and weeks of hard work, talked about her commitment to the people of the 4th District, her fundamental understanding of the difficulties facing working people, single moms--real Americans. As Donna explains, if we elect her to Congress we won't have to push her or lobby her to do the right thing on universal health care or getting us out of Iraq or helping families hurt by the foreclosure crisis.

Donna promised us, "January 2009, my name will be right on top of the list," of the leaders making a difference on all these issues and more. And PDA is right on top of the list among the "vast left wing conspiracy" poised to usher Albert Wynn back into private life. As the chant rocked the room: "Al Wynn? Time to go!" and "It's Donna Time!" Voters in Maryland's 4th District agreed. Thanks to everyone who pitched in to help Donna win!

February 02, 2008

Progressive Democratic Challengers

Progressive Democratic Challengers
by JOHN NICHOLS | The Nation: http://www.thenation.com/doc/20080211/nichols

Maryland Congressional candidate Donna Edwards did not need a memo from
a pollster to tell her the subprime mortgage crisis would be an issue in
her 2008 race. Campaigning on the doorsteps and at Metro stops of her
racially and economically diverse suburban Washington district, she
heard women talking last summer about how a credit crunch might cost
them their homes. Edwards, one of a new breed of savvy policy wonks and
strategists who are leaving the public-interest community to bid for
major elected office, knew how to respond. Months before Hillary Clinton
and Barack Obama began promising to fight to keep middle-class families
in their homes–and with an urgency that is still missing from the
response of House and Senate Democratic leaders–Edwards called for
radically revising the 2005 bankruptcy bill as part of a plan to protect
homeowners from financial ruin.

It didn't hurt that the incumbent Democrat she's challenging in
Maryland's February 12 primary, eight-term Congressman Albert Wynn,
voted for the bankruptcy bill, favored by commercial banks, which have
contributed $185,917 to his campaign. But for Edwards, this was about
more than political positioning. "Prince Georges County has the highest
rate of foreclosures in Maryland, and my ZIP code has the highest rate
of foreclosures in the county," says Edwards, a veteran activist on
issues of concern to women and working families. "When I talk about why
we need a different kind of Democrat in Congress–someone who sides with
consumers, not corporate interests–people understand exactly what I'm
talking about." [read more: http://blog.pdamerica.org/?p=1686]

January 28, 2008

Stop Telecom Immunity: Call Sen. Mikulski and Sen. Cardin now!

[ PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRATS OF AMERICA ]

Stop Telecom Immunity: Call Sen. Mikulski and Sen. Cardin
at the Capitol Switchboard 202-224-3121 now!


Despite Reid's recent pledge to oppose immunity for the telecom industry, he has brought forward one of two bills, both amended by the Senate Intelligence Committee, which contains… immunity!

Reid didn't have to do this. He could have championed the other bill, which eliminated immunity for the telecom industry.

So today, the Senate will vote to grant immunity to the telecom industry for their illegal spying on Americans, or they will protect our rights and the Constitution and vote no.

Call your Senators NOW at the Capitol Switchboard 202-224-3121 and tell them to vote no on the FISA Amendment to allow immunity for the telecom industry.

We've let Bush trample on our civil rights long enough, without letting him-and the Democratic enablers Harry Reid and Dianne Feinstein—give a break to those corporations who willingly break the law. And don't let poor AT&T, Verizon and BellSouth tell you that they didn't know warrant-less wiretapping is illegal, or that they couldn't refuse; Qwest Communications saw it for what is was, and said, “No, thanks.”

The New York Times editorialized, just this past Saturday: “The Senate (reportedly still under Democratic control) seems determined to help President Bush violate Americans' civil liberties and undermine the constitutional separation of powers. Majority Leader Harry Reid is supporting White House-backed legislation that would expand the administration's ability to spy on Americans without court supervision and ensure that the country never learns the full extent of Mr. Bush's illegal wiretapping program.”

To learn more about the terrible cost of this immunity for those who helped break the law, read the ACLU's opinion.

Dial 202-224-3121 now--and tell your Senators to vote against any bill containing immunity for the telecom companies that are illegally spying on Americans.

In Solidarity,

Tim Carpenter
National Director


P.S. Since a Democrat is poised to become the next leader of the “free” world, and Edwards has already come out strongly opposed to telecom immunity, it will be interesting to see if Clinton and Obama assume the mantle of leadership and stand up for our rights by actually casting a vote to uphold the Constitution.

Progressive Democrats of America is a grassroots PAC that works
both inside the Democratic Party and outside in movements for
peace and justice. Our goal: Elect a permanent, progressive
majority in 2008. PDA's advisory board includes seven members
of Congress and activist leaders such as Tom Hayden,
Medea
Benjamin, Thom Hartmann and Rev. Lennox Yearwood.
More info: http://pdamerica.org

January 17, 2008

Donna Edwards Fundraiser 5-9 pm Sunday, January 20 in Wheaton

What: Donna Edwards Fundraiser 5-9 pm Sunday, January 20 in Wheaton

When: Sunday, January 20, 5:00 PM

Who should come: Anyone who wants to send a great person to Congress

Why: Have fun and support a great candidate for Congress


* Support and meet Donna Edwards 5-9 pm Sunday, January 20 in Wheaton
* Watch Donna Edwards and her campaign to replace Al Wynn on the PBS program "Now" Friday Jan. 18th.
* The Democratic Primary Election is February 12, 2008

==========================

Support and meet Donna Edwards, Democratic candidate for Maryland's 4th Congressional District
Sponsored by Montgomery County campaign volunteers and Haitian-American friends of Donna Edwards

5-9 pm Sunday, January 20, 2008
ANTIPUQUEÑO RESTAURANT
2504 Ennalls Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902
(where Sabang used to be)

Short Walk from the Wheaton Metro stop (red line)

DIRECTIONS: From I-495 take the Georgia Avenue Exit towards Wheaton. Continue for almost 2 miles and make a left on Ennals Avenue (the block before University Blvd.). Continue for two blocks to the Antipuqueno Restaurant on the left. There is plenty of free public parking.

Watch NFL Playoffs on Flat Screen HD TV!

Contribute to the campaign and have a good time! Music, dancing, cash bar and Salvadorian Tex-Mex menu.

For more information, contact Ken Leiner (240) 305-8880 or Claire Gabriel (301) 384-5458 or email: community1event@yahoo.com

If you are unable to attend, but would like to make a contribution to the campaign

Make an on-line contribution: https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/entity/17959

Or write a check to Donna Edwards for Congress and send your donation to P.O. Box 441153 Fort Washington, MD 20749-1153

To comply with Federal Election regulations, you must identify your Occupation and Employer. If not employed, please enter "not employed" under occupation, and please enter "none" under employer. If self-employed, please enter "self" under employer.

You must also attest Contribution Eligibility by writing the following: I confirm that the following statements are true and accurate.
1. I am a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien.
2. This contribution is made from my own personal funds, and funds are not being provided to me by another person or entity for the purpose of making this contribution.
3. I am not a federal contractor.
4. I am at least eighteen years old.

==========================

Watch Donna Edwards and her campaign to replace Al Wynn on the PBS program "Now" Friday Jan. 18th 10 PM on WETA - channel 26

Repeated on WETA World on Sunday, Jan. 20th, at 12 midnight, and again at 5 AM. WETA World is Comcast cable channel 202 and Verizon FIOS channel 873.

==========================

This message was not paid for or coordinated with any candidate or campaign.

December 24, 2007

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability and Chesapeake Carolers Deliver Peace Message to Congress

This Christmas season, two Maryland soccer moms (who exchange meat loaf recipes, teach Sunday school and share carpool duties) felt upset that Congress members had been naughty in 2007 -- by violating their oaths of office, i.e. using billions of our dollars for funding the illegal and unpopular Iraq occupation, and by not impeaching the criminals Bush and Cheney. Why was Congress deliberately setting a treacherous precedent by promoting a permanent war economy with our money, and by supporting unbridled presidential power in the 21st century? Gosh darn it!

So these two feisty gals wiped away their copious tears, put on decent foundation and lipstick, and got to work. They wrote subversive Christmas carols, wrote ringing truth-to-power letters on adorable stationery to 13 representatives, baked organic impeachment and (crumbling) Constitution cookies, and stuffed cute anti-war stockings with coal. They also prepared a "thank you" tin of cookies for the one Congress member who has stood for Americans in every vote he has cast: Representative Dennis Kucinich, whom they support for President in 2008.

Watch the videos: http://blog.pdamerica.org/?p=1567
Read the whole story: http://blog.pdamerica.org/?p=1523

Please share with all your friends!

Peace and Accountability to all, and to all a good night!

December 15, 2007

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability--Get in on the Impeachment movement


Progressive Democrats of America - Stand Up. Take Action. Vote.

Get in on the Impeachment movement:Impeach the Cheerleader Button
"Impeach Bush" Jr. Raglan"Impeach Bush" Organic Cotton TeeImpeach the Cheerleader
Impeachment articles at the PDA blog. Please post and forward widely

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability

On December 13th, Debbie and Barb lobbied Congress in festive holiday attire. As Chesapeake Carolers, they had so much fun! They even made new friends on the steps of the Capitol Building! They hope you like the pictures! And wait till you see their music videos! [read more]



Impeachment: If not now, when?

December 15th, 2007
Lawmakers need to stand up for the Constitution and support impeachment
By LINDA BOYD | GUEST COLUMNIST | Seattle Post-Intelligencer

The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors. — Article II, Section 4

On Nov. 6, Rep. Dennis Kucinich introduced articles of impeachment against Vice President Dick Cheney on the floor of the House of Representatives. For one shining moment the will of the majority of Americans and the promise of this nation’s founders were truly represented. The detailed charges were solemnly read from the House podium and televised on C-Span. House Democratic Leader Steny Hoyer made a motion to table the bill. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi lobbied hard for votes to table.

In a stunning turnaround, House Republicans changed strategy and voted decisively to prevent tabling the impeachment resolution. Pelosi was defied by 85 Democratic members who voted against tabling the impeachment resolution. This includes John Conyers, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, and six committee members. The resolution was quickly voted back to the Judiciary Committee, where it is not resting quietly.

Judiciary Committee member Bob Wexler wrote, “The American people are served well with a legitimate and thorough impeachment inquiry. I will urge the Judiciary Committee to schedule impeachment hearings immediately and not let this issue languish as it has over the last six months. Only through hearings can we begin to correct the abuses of Dick Cheney and the Bush administration.”[read more] Post Comments »

30,000 People Join Congressman Wexler’s Call For Cheney Impeachment Hearings in Just 24 Hours

December 15th, 2007
Blockbuster First Day for WexlerWantsHearings.com
by CONGRESSMAN ROBERT WEXLER DEMOCRAT – FLORIDA | Contact: Josh Rogin, 202-213-6165

(WASHINGTON, DC) In only the first 24 hours, more than 30,000 people have signed up online to join Congressman Robert Wexler’s (D-FL) call for impeachment hearings for Vice President Richard Cheney. On Friday, December 14, Wexler launched www.WexlerWantsHearings.com and asked Americans to join his efforts to convince Congress to hold impeachment hearings. As of 2:30 PM on Saturday 36,000 people have signed up, and the momentum generated by Wexler’s campaign is only accelerating.

“The amazing response generated by my call for impeachment hearings simply confirms the passion and energy that exists throughout the nation to hold this Administration accountable” said Wexler. “Originally my long term goal was 50,000 people to join the movement. Now it is clear we will accomplish that in only the first couple days. Major momentum now exists on behalf of our movement and it is now clear that average Americans desperately want Congress and the House Judiciary Committee to take action.” [read more] Post Comments »

A CASE FOR HEARINGS

December 15th, 2007
By Representatives and Members of the Judiciary Committee: Robert Wexler (D-FL), Luis Gutierrez (D-IL), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). For more info on this campaign go to www.WexlerWantsHearings.com.

On November 7, the House of Representatives voted to send a resolution of impeachment of Vice President Cheney to the Judiciary Committee. As Members of the House Judiciary Committee, we strongly believe these important hearings should begin.

The issues at hand are too serious to ignore, including credible allegations of abuse of power that if proven may well constitute high crimes and misdemeanors under our constitution. The charges against Vice President Cheney relate to his deceptive actions leading up to the Iraq war, the revelation of the identity of a covert agent for political retaliation, and the illegal wiretapping of American citizens. [read more] Post Comment »

Get in on the Impeachment movement:Impeach the Cheerleader Button
"Impeach Bush" Jr. Raglan"Impeach Bush" Organic Cotton TeeImpeach the Cheerleader

November 27, 2007

Dennis Kucinich in Charlottesville VA on Friday, December 7th.

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

November 11, 2007

4th Cong. District Debate Prince George's County African-American Dem. Club

Prince George's County African-American Dem. Club
4th Congressional
District Debate

Donna Edwards, the true Democrat in the race, faces Iraq War supporter and special interest money kingpin Al Wynn.

10:30 AM Saturday, Nov. 17th
Oxon Hill Library, 6200 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD

Public Transportation from the SOUTHERN AVE METRO STATION (Green Line)
Take D12 BUS towards SUITLAND STATION at 9:56am
Arrive at the LIBRARY 6200 OXON HILL RD at 10:16am

The Maryland primary is on Feb. 12, 2008

November 09, 2007

Donna Edwards: The Change We NeedRight Here, Right Now




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Dan Weber

November 9, 2007 Phone #: (301) 316-1880
Donna Edwards' Campaign Releases Second Video in
"The Change We Need, Right Here, Right Now" Series

Video Provides Edwards' Vision and
Congressman Wynn's Failures On Environment

TEMPLE HILLS, MD - The Donna Edwards for Congress campaign announces the release of a second video, "The World We Are Leaving Our Children"

Link to Video

Donna Edwards believes that "environmental issues are some of the biggest, most important policy questions of our generation." This video highlights some of the environmental initiatives Ms. Edwards will take on as a member of Congress and why she will be a true leader for change. The video also discusses the failures of Congressman Wynn and his conflict of interest when receiving so much corporate special interest PAC money from oil, gas, and electric companies.

This series will continue to highlight several substantive issues and show why Ms. Edwards has the vision and character to provide the change Maryland's 4th Congressional District needs.

(from the Donna Edwards for Congress Campaign)

October 28, 2007

DFMC Endorses Donna Edwards

Democracy for Montgomery County, an independent, nonpartisan grass-roots activist organization voted to endorse Donna Edwards for U.S. Congress in Maryland's 4th District. DFMC is inspired by, but not affiliated with Democracy for America (DFA) which has also endorsed Donna Edwards.

The DFMC membership overwhelming voted to endorse Edwards this past week. DFMC supports socially progressive, fiscally responsible candidates and policies. The group also endorsed Edwards in her remarkably successful primary effort in 2006 which fell a few thousand votes short of unseating long-term incumbent Albert Wynn.

DFMC activists will support the Edwards campaign by volunteering at events, door knocking, and in several other ways leading up to the Maryland Democratic Primary which will be held February 12, 2008.

DFMC Steering Committee member Gina Angiola is organizing Montgomery County for the Edwards effort. DFMC members have already begun phone-banking, handing out info at subway stops, and organizing coffees, house parties and other events to help Donna Edwards win the 4th District Congressional seat.

4th Congressional District Debate

Attend the Maryland 4th Congressional District Democratic Debate
DFMC is a co-sponsor of this important event

All declared Democratic candidates invited: Donna Edwards, Al Wynn, George McDermott, George Mitchell

Moderator: Bruce Depuyt of NewsChannel 8

7:30 pm Thurs. Nov. 8, 2007
Montgomery Blair High School Student Activities Center
51 University Blvd., Silver Spring
(parking on University Blvd.)

Public Transportation: From WHEATON METRO STATION at 7:13pm take C4 BUS towards PRINCE GEORGE'S PLAZA METRO arrive at W UNIVERSITY BV & COLESVILLE RD 7:27pm and Walk 0.05 mile SW to 51 UNIVERSITY BLVD E

Vote in Maryland’s Primary Tuesday February 12, 2008

To submit questions or get more information, contact MarkWoodard@comcast.net / (301)-592-1811
or Paul Mitchell (301)-588-7126

Sponsor: The Greater Silver Spring Democratic Club
Co-sponsors: Democracy for Montgomery County, Progressive Democrats of America/Maryland, Progressive Neighbors, Montgomery County Young Democrats, Prezco, Indian Spring Citizens Association, Montgomery County Green Democrats, Hispanic Democratic Club, Women’s Suburban Democratic Club, Upper Marlboro, District 14 & District 19 Democratic Clubs, District 18 & District 20 Democratic Caucuses

DFA Endorses Donna Edwards

From a DFA Emailing: Democracy for America doesn't shy away from tough fights. Bush Democrats think that the "D" next to their name keeps them safe, but you know better.

DFA stands up for progressive principles in any district, in every state. That's why primaries matter.

Donna Edwards in MD-04 is a lifelong progressive taking on Rep. Al Wynn -- a Bush Democrat occupying a bright blue seat. And DFA is behind Donna 100%.

We know where Donna Edwards stands. She is the consistent progressive in the race we can count on to fight for our values everyday, not just during election season. Yet, her opponent Al Wynn has been on the run, flipping positions and double-talking his record since the campaign started.

While Donna has stood up against the war in Iraq since the beginning, Congressman Wynn voted with Bush on Iraq from day one. With Democrats like Al Wynn, the GOP doesn't even need to run a Republican. Support Donna Edwards today with $15 and let's kick Bush Democrats out of Congress.