2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Kerry Latest To Praise Dodd Energy Plan

KERRY LATEST TO PRAISE DODD ENERGY PLAN
Senator Dodd's Bold Leadership on Energy Continues to Gain Support

WASHINGTON – Today, Former Democratic Presidential Nominee and Senator John Kerry became the latest to laud Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd's comprehensive energy policy.  Kerry joins former Presidential Candidates Bill Bradley and Al Gore, as well as the League of Conservation Voters and Roger Ballentine, the Chairman of the Clinton White House Climate Change Task Force in applauding the plan.

"For too long, the debate over global climate change has reflected politics at its worst -- ducking the difficult choices, substituting words for deeds, and postponing the reckoning until the day after tomorrow," said Kerry.  "The issue has never been met with the urgency to match one of the most pressing issues of our time, and I'm glad to see Senator Dodd is speaking out to change that."

"Chris has proposed a serious policy to address a serious problem. The Democratic presidential nominating process and all Americans are better off because of Chris' leadership and his passionate commitment to ensuring a cleaner, healthier, and more secure energy future for our country."

Yesterday, Bill Bradley expressed praise for the plan, claiming that "Chris Dodd gets it."

"The only meaningful approaches to ending global warming include measures that would make it uneconomical to release greenhouse gases into the environment.  These measures may be politically risky, but they are necessary," said Bradley.

"Chris Dodd gets it, and his energy plan reflects the fact that we need honest and bold action if we are going to be serious about ending global warming.  His plan to raise fuel efficiency standards to 50 mpg would mean that we would no longer have to rely on OPEC to meet our energy needs, and as a result bolster American security."

In addition to raising fuel efficiency standards, Senator Dodd's Energy plan will reduce 80 percent of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and make the Production Tax Credit permanent for clean and renewable sources of energy.  Dodd's plan is the first among the Presidential candidates' to advocate a Corporate Carbon Tax, which will generate an estimated $50 billion annually and fund fast tracked research, development, and deployment of renewable technologies and expedite the process for bringing energy efficient technologies to market.

Bill Bradley Endorses Dodd Plan For Energy

BILL BRADLEY ENDORSES DODD PLAN FOR ENERGY
"Chris Dodd gets it," says former Senator and White House contender

WASHINGTON – Former New Jersey Senator Bill Bradley today became the latest to endorse Senator Chris Dodd's comprehensive plan to begin to turn back the clock on global climate change and end American reliance on Middle East oil. 

"The only meaningful approaches to ending global warming include measures that would make it uneconomical to release greenhouse gases into the environment.  These measures may be politically risky, but they are necessary," said Bradley.

"Chris Dodd gets it, and his energy plan reflects the fact that we need honest and bold action if we are going to be serious about ending global warming.  His plan to raise fuel efficiency standards to 50 mpg would mean that we would no longer have to rely on OPEC to meet our energy needs, and as a result bolster American security."

In addition to raising fuel efficiency standards, Senator Dodd's Energy plan will reduce 80 percent of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and make the Production Tax Credit permanent for clean and renewable sources of energy.  Dodd's plan is the first among the Presidential candidates' to advocate a Corporate Carbon Tax, which will generate an estimated $50 billion annually and fund fast tracked research, development, and deployment of renewable technologies and expedite the process for bringing energy efficient technologies to market.

Senator Dodd's plan has been praised by Al Gore, the League of Conservation Voters and Roger Ballentine, the Chairman of the Clinton White House Climate Change Task Force.

Dodd Calls On DNC To Allow Video Recordings Of Debates To Be Free And Open To The Public

DODD CALLS ON DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL COMMITTEE TO ALLOW VIDEO RECORDINGS OF DEBATES TO BE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Senator and Presidential candidate Chris Dodd today called on the Democratic National Committee and every media outlet that hosts a debate during the primaries to make video recordings of those debates free and open to the public.

"A presidential campaign is not about the candidates who run. A presidential campaign is about the issues they present, and the constituents they hope to serve," Dodd wrote in a letter to DNC chairman Howard Dean. "Because the campaign will continue until our convention next summer in Denver, we will have many chances to gather and discuss the issues, and making the product of those discussions free and open to the public simply makes sense."

"I urge you to join those calling for the unrestricted release of debate video, and I hope you agree that by doing so, the Democratic Party will continue to spread our message and inform millions of Americans of where we stand," Dodd wrote.

Dodd At First Debate

DODD AT FIRST DEBATE
Proven Leadership And Bold Vision Set Dodd Apart From Field 

ORANGEBURG -- Distinguishing himself from the rest of the field with bold ideas and a record of concrete accomplishments, Chris Dodd demonstrated Presidential leadership at tonight's debate. During the 90 minute debate, Dodd displayed the strength, conviction and bold vision voters are looking for in their next President.

"When the candidates stood next to each other, offered their records and pointed to the ideas they would bring to the White House, Chris Dodd came out on top," said Dodd Campaign Manager Sheryl Cohen. "Americans know that the times require bold ideas and proven leadership. It was clear tonight that Chris Dodd is the only candidate who offers both."

The distinction was clearest on the issue of Iraq. "I don't think the stakes have ever been higher for us as a country," said Senator Dodd. "We need bolder experienced leadership that will take us in a different direction than we're clearly headed." Dodd was the first candidate to support the Feingold-Reid legislation, which would force the President's hand by allowing funding for one year in which time combat troops could be safely redeployed, and bring and end to the Iraq war.

"There was one President standing on that stage tonight and it was Chris Dodd," said Dodd Campaign Co-Chairman, Rep. Xavier Becerra. "At a time when the stakes could not be greater for our country, Chris Dodd offers bold leadership and a proven ability to bring people together to get things done."

Dodd Unveils Comprehensive Energy Plan

Dodd Unveils Comprehensive Energy Plan

Bold plan would enact a Corporate Carbon Tax to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent, eliminate dependence on Middle East oil

Plan would also require new cars to get 50 miles per gallon and lower clean energy hurdles for consumers and businesses

WASHINGTON, DC - Touting energy policies that would begin to turn back the clock on global climate change, eliminate our dependence on Middle East Oil, and create a "new American prosperity," Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd announced his energy plan at a major address this morning at the Center for National Policy in Washington.

"Our dependence on foreign oil and fossil fuels is one of our biggest problems - a problem that impacts our health, our environment, our national security, our competitiveness," Dodd said in the speech.  "But breaking that dependence is our single greatest opportunity - for a brighter, greener, healthier, more prosperous and secure future."

Dodd is the first presidential candidate to call for a Corporate Carbon Tax, which, in conjunction with an aggressive "cap-and-trade" system, would dramatically decrease carbon emissions at the same time its revenues stimulate innovation in energy efficiency and alternative fuels.

Roger Ballentine, President of Green Strategies Inc. and former Chairman of the White House Climate Change Task Force and Deputy Assistant to the President for Environmental Initiatives in the Clinton White House, applauded Senator Dodd's vision.  "I think Senator Dodd has laid out a courageous and comprehensive plan to solve our climate and energy crisis.  His call for a corporate carbon tax, tough cap-and-trade rules and strong efficiency standards will likely be the gold standard against which all plans will be measured," said Ballentine.

Calling for historic investments in biofuels and other clean energy technologies, the reduction of costs of energy efficient consumer products and tough 50 miles-per-gallon fuel efficiency standards in vehicles, Dodd said America can eliminate its dependence on Middle East oil by 2015.

Dodd's plan would:

• Reduce 80 percent of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050;
• Enact a Corporate Carbon Tax  that will generate an estimated $50 billion annually and will fund fast tracked research, development, and deployment of renewable technologies and expedite the process for bringing energy efficient technologies to market;
• Increase efficiency standards for consumer products;
• Raise fuel economy standards in automobiles to 50 mpg;
• Impose tough standards for the construction of new coal plants;
• Increase renewable electricity standards to 20% by 2020;
• Make the Production Tax Credit permanent for clean and renewable sources of energy;
• Make high-efficiency automobiles affordable for every American family;
• Require that all new government vehicles use hybrid, plug-in, or other fuel efficient and alternative technology. 
• Require that all new and existing federal buildings be equipped with the latest energy efficiency technologies.
• Create a technical education curriculum that trains a new generation of automobile mechanics, electricians, plumbers, and construction workers to install, repair and maintain energy efficient goods across the spectrum, from cars to lamps.
• Increase access to affordable and convenient mass transit systems across all regions of the country. 
• Export safe renewable energy technologies to, friends, allies and developing nations. 

Dodd called for proven leadership to address the environmental challenges that will face the next President of the United States. "With a leader who can bring people together and inspire them, we can solve our energy crisis. We can create a New American Prosperity," said Dodd.

Dodd 4th Overall In Primary Money And Cash-On-Hand

WITH STRONG FINANCIAL QUARTER, DODD CONTINUES ON PATH TO NOMINATION
Dodd 4th overall in primary money and cash-on-hand

WASHINGTON -- Filing its FEC report for the first quarter, Chris Dodd's presidential campaign today celebrated its continued financial and organizational success. Dodd reported nearly $7.5 million cash on hand, with over $6.4 million cash available for the Democratic primary to date. Those numbers are expected to put Dodd in 4th place among the Democratic contenders.

"We're gratified by the tremendous show of support this campaign has received from supporters across the country looking for proven leadership that can get things done," said Dodd campaign manager Sheryl Cohen. "As we continue to build strong operations nationally and in key primary states, we know we'll have the financial support we need to win the Democratic primary and eventually the general election."

When the campaign files with the FEC tonight, it will report:

Total Receipts: $8,795,706

Cash on hand: $7,482,467

Primary money available: $6,432,050

Dodd's campaign has a greater cash-on-hand total than did any contender at this point in the 2004 presidential campaign besides Sen. John Kerry. At the end of the first quarter, Sen. John Edwards reported having $5.7 million cash on hand; Rep. Richard Gephardt reported $4.9 million; former Vermont Governor Howard Dean, $2 million. Only Kerry, with just over $8 million, had more cash available.

Additionally, Dodd's campaign continues to grow. Last week, Dodd traveled to Iowa, where he unveiled his comprehensive foreign policy plan, and Nevada, where he continued his successful "Kitchen Table" campaign, meeting with groups of firefighters and Hispanic leaders to address their concerns on important issues.

"I couldn't be more pleased with the present state of this campaign," continued Cohen. "Our impressive level of grassroots support shows that people are responding to Chris Dodd's record of proven leadership and experience."

Chris Dodd Announces Key South Carolina Hires

DODD ANNOUNCES KEY SOUTH CAROLINA HIRES
Senior Advisor, Political Director, Press Secretary To Lead Palmetto State Team

COLUMBIA - Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd's campaign today announced the hiring of three experienced Democratic operatives to lead Dodd's South Carolina effort.

Ashley Cooper will serve as Senior Advisor for South Carolina, Heyward Bannister, of Columbia as state Political Director, and Michelle Macrina will be the campaign's Press Secretary.

"No one knows South Carolina better than Ashley, Heyward and Michelle," Senator Dodd said. "All over the state, my campaign is attracting an effective, experienced and energetic team, and I'm happy to have Ashley, Heyward and Michelle to offer counsel and guidance."

"Senator Dodd is very fortunate to have Ashley Cooper advising him in his South Carolina Campaign," stated Waring Howe, Jr., DNC member and Charleston County Democratic Party Chair. "By building on his work experience with Senator Fritz Hollings and his legal work now, Ashley knows the issues, knows the politics and knows the people of South Carolina."

"I have known Heyward for over 40 years," stated former South Carolina State Representative Joe Brown of Columbia, "and I can honestly say that Heyward is one of the finest and most outstanding leaders that we have in South Carolina."

"I have worked directly with Michelle over a number of years, and she has a great knowledge of South Carolina politics," said Joe Erwin, Chairman of the South Carolina Democratic Party. "With Michelle's strong organizational and communication skills, Senator Chris Dodd is very fortunate to have Michelle on his Palmetto State Team."

"Many political watchers already know that Senator Dodd is building a strong team around the country," said Beneva Schulte, Dodd's Communications Director. "Adding these three experienced activists to the team is another step in building a winning organization."

Dodd Positioned Well After Strong First Quarter

DODD POSITIONED WELL AFTER STRONG FIRST QUARTER
Receipts of $9 million in first quarter, $7.5 million cash on hand, builds deep operations in key states

Washington - Posting strong numbers for the first fundraising quarter of 2007, presidential candidate Chris Dodd continued his aggressive push towards the Democratic nomination Monday. His campaign cited their strong organization in key primary states as well as Dodd's ability to connect with voters as key reasons for their satisfying first quarter.

"Our campaign is on path, both financially and organizationally, to give Chris Dodd the resources he'll need to get his message of proven leadership and results delivered out to the American people," said Dodd Campaign Manager Sheryl Cohen. "Chris Dodd's unique combination of proven leadership, delivering results on behalf of American families and his personality are connecting with voters nationwide. That's why he's in such a strong position today, and will continue to prove a formidable candidate as we move forward."

Dodd posted total receipts of $9 million for the first quarter ending March 31st, including over $4 million raised since the beginning of the year and $5 million transferred from his Senate account. Dodd also reported $7.5 million cash on hand.

In addition to posting a strong financial quarter, Dodd has built deep and experienced organizations in key primary and caucus states in a matter of months since his announcement.

"Our campaign has proven that we can go from zero to 60 in just a couple short months. As pleased as we are with our levels of financial support, this campaign is just as strong on the ground. And in key states across the country, the Dodd campaign is better organized and more experienced than our competitors," said spokeswoman Christy Setzer.

In Iowa, Dodd recently made some widely praised staff hires, including Democratic activist Marc Beltrame as state director, and Taylor West, former campaign press secretary to newly-elected Governor Chet Culver, as state press secretary. In New Hampshire, Dodd announced the endorsement of former Congressman Norman D'Amours. He will return to the state this week, meeting with college students to address their concerns of rising tuition costs.

Dodd also has impressed at Presidential forums where observers have noted that his depth of understanding of the issues and his experience have set him apart from the field. In the coming months, Dodd will continue to highlight his unique qualifications with a series of major policy speeches and at the first Presidential debates. He will also distinguish himself from the rest of the field in the second quarter with a series of face-to-face conversations with voters, which he's calling his "Kitchen Table Campaign."

Dodd's efforts this quarter have won him praise from voters and pundits alike, putting him in a strong position going into the rest of the campaign.

Jennifer Tuttle Added To Chris Dodd Iowa Team

DODD ADDS ANOTHER WINNER TO IOWA TEAM
Manager of Loebsack Upset to Head Up Dodd’s Iowa Political Desk

WASHINGTON – Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd today announced that yet another proven Iowa winner has joined his campaign team. Jennifer Tuttle, campaign manager of Congressman Dave Loebsack’s stunning upset victory in 2006, will head the Iowa desk at Dodd’s campaign headquarters in Washington.

"Jennifer Tuttle helped pull off one of the biggest surprises in the 2006 election when she unseated an entrenched incumbent. Her knowledge of what it takes to win Iowa will be invaluable," said Dodd campaign Iowa State Director Marc Beltrame.

Tuttle adds another Iowa winner to a Dodd staff which already features Beltrame, formerly a senior advisor to Congressman Leonard Boswell, and Iowa press secretary Taylor West, formerly press secretary for Governor Chet Culver’s successful 2006 campaign.  She also joins Julie Andreef Jensen, John Kerry’s 2004 Iowa Political Director, who serves as National Deputy Political Director for Dodd.

Tuttle managed Loebsack’s campaign in Iowa’s Second Congressional District last year, defeating long-time incumbent Jim Leach.  She has also served as a program manager for the Sierra Club in Rhode Island.

"As many political watchers have already noted, Chris Dodd's message of proven leadership is attracting an effective, experienced and energetic team," said Dodd Campaign Political Director Scott Arceneaux. "Adding a proven talent like Jennifer Tuttle continues boosting our efforts in such an important state."

Referring to Dodd’s early staffing efforts in the state, former Iowa democratic Party Chairman Gordon Fischer, said that the hires, “are going to make [Dodd] a serious player.”

Dodd Announces New Hires In Political Department

DODD ANNOUNCES NEW HIRES IN POLITICAL DEPARTMENT

WASHINGTON -- Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd announced that three seasoned campaign veterans have joined his campaign. Jennifer Tuttle, Antwaun Griffin and Mat Pierson will serve in the campaign's political department.

"Chris Dodd's message of proven leadership is attracting an effective, experienced and energetic team," said Dodd Campaign Political Director Scott Arceneaux. "Adding these three seasoned professionals boosts our efforts in three important early primary and caucus states."

"Jennifer Tuttle helped pull off one of the biggest surprises in the 2006 election when she unseated an entrenched incumbent. Her knowledge of what it takes to win Iowa will be invaluable," said Dodd campaign Iowa State Director Marc Beltrame. Tuttle will head the Iowa desk in Washington.

"Antwaun Griffin's experience throughout the country, and particularly in the South, lends another valuable addition to Senator Dodd's already strong campaign team in South Carolina," Arceneaux said. Griffin heads the Dodd campaign's South Carolina desk in Washington.

"Mat Pierson's extensive work in field organizing is going to be essential to Senator Dodd's New Hampshire campaign, and his knowledge of the delegate selection process is a great catch for the campaign," said Dodd campaign Senior Advisor Maura Keefe. Pierson moves from the campaign's operations department to the New Hampshire political desk in Washington.

"Many political watchers have already concluded that Senator Dodd is building a strong team," Arceneaux said. "Adding such experienced talent to the political department is another step in building a winning organization."