2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Clinton Campaign Launches “Women for Hillary” Effort

Clinton Campaign Launches “Women for Hillary” Effort
National Grassroots Campaign Will Use Web to Mobilize Women

Hillary Clinton is launching a major grassroots effort to mobilize women on behalf of her historic candidacy today, speaking to the nation’s largest political action network as her campaign embarks upon a series of initiatives aimed at reaching women voters.

“I’m asking mothers and daughters across the country to join us in this groundbreaking effort because this campaign is about restoring the promise of America and ensuring that that there are no limits on how far our young people can go,” Clinton said.  “I hope you will join me in this campaign, because together we will bring the leadership America needs to the White House.”

Women are the “X factor” in this upcoming election—more than 54% of general election voters will be women.  And Hillary has already proven hugely popular among women, winning 73% of the women’s vote in her landslide re-election to the Senate last fall.

In an afternoon speech to EMILY’s List, Hillary will pay tribute to Speaker Nancy Pelosi and announce that she is reintroducing the Paycheck Fairness Act, a measure that would ensure that women are paid the same as men who do equal work. She details the bill in a new “HillCast” on her web site. EMILY’s List has already endorsed Hillary’s campaign, and is mobilizing its activists and donors to propel her to the presidency.

The Women for Hillary program will also include a massive Internet outreach effort, focused on inviting women to join its Women Leaders Network and to organize local events with Hillary supporters.  A key piece of that program will be a web campaign called “I Can Be President” that will go online this month and enable women across the country to express their support for Hillary’s candidacy.  The campaign is also hosting an “I Can Be President” poster contest for young people. 

Women who have risen to the highest levels in their fields will also play an active role in Women for Hillary. Those participating in events and reaching out to voters include the first woman Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, the first woman Vice Presidential Candidate Geraldine Ferraro, tennis great Billie Jean King, former head of the Small Business Administration Aida Alvarez, former President of the American Bar Association Martha Barnett, former CEO of the Discovery Channel, Judith McHale and several women Members of Congress.

Finally, the campaign will place online ads on popular networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook to encourage women to get involved and help build a network of women leaders who can organize in peer groups, such as women doctors and young women.

Clinton Announces Additions to Nevada Senior Staff

Clinton Announces Additions to Nevada Senior Staff
Veteran Nevada Operatives Build on Silver State Strength

The Hillary Clinton campaign today announced four key appointments to lead efforts in Nevada.  Former Washoe County Democratic Party Executive Director Pam duPre’ and attorney and noted community activist Alisa Nave will serve as the campaign’s Political Directors in Northern and Southern Nevada, respectively.  Veteran public sector communicator Hilarie Grey will serve as Nevada Communications Director.  State Democratic Canvass leader Brian DiMarzio will be the campaign’s Deputy Field Director.

“This outstanding group of Nevadans brings unparalleled experience and knowledge that will energize our campaign in the Silver State,” said Clinton Nevada Chair Rory Reid.   “We’re very excited to have them on our leadership team.”

“Pam and Brian have been true galvanizing forces for organizing and motivating voters in Nevada,” said Reid.  “Alisa has a proven track record in building working coalitions, and Hilarie brings great in-the-trenches experience and knowledge of Nevada’s issues.   We are really fortunate – and just thrilled - to have such a wealth of in-state talent at the heart of Senator Clinton’s efforts in Nevada.”

Clinton Names Robby Mook Nevada State Director

CLINTON NAMES ROBBY MOOK NEVADA STATE DIRECTOR

The Hillary Clinton campaign today announced that veteran Democratic operative Robby Mook would serve as the campaign's Nevada State Director.

"Robby is an outstanding organizer, and I'm thrilled he's going to run our Nevada campaign," said Clinton.

Mook served as Deputy Field Director on Howard Dean's 2004 New Hampshire primary campaign.

"When it came to hiring a Nevada state director, we wanted someone with a proven track record," said Clinton Nevada chair Rory Reid.  "By bringing on someone of his caliber, Senator Clinton is demonstrating her commitment to running a strong campaign in Nevada.  Robby is going to be a huge asset to our efforts here in the Silver State."

As state director, Mook will oversee the day-to-day operations of Clinton's caucus campaign.  He joins a state leadership team with both national and statewide experience, headed by state chair Rory Reid, and Northern Nevada chair Frankie Sue del Papa.

"Senator Clinton has the unique experience and vision to get this country back on the right track, and she understands the challenges facing the people of Nevada and the West," said Mook.  "I'm honored to be a part of this historic campaign."

Clinton Raises Over $1 Million in 1 Week Online

Clinton Raises Over $1 Million in 1 Week in Online Grassroots Campaign

Nearly 15,000 grassroots supporters from all 50 states responded to the one-week challenge, surpassing goal

Demonstrating a groundswell of grassroots support, Hillary Clinton’s campaign today announced it raised over $1 million from nearly 15,000 grassroots supporters through a one-week online campaign. Last Wednesday, the campaign kicked off the effort to raise $1 million in grassroots donations through an e-mail from President Clinton encouraging Americans to show their support for Hillary’s campaign.

In a note to supporters today, Hillary wrote: “I want to thank you for the tremendous outpouring of support you showed me during our "One Week, One Million" drive. It was an incredible success, and it means so much to me knowing that I have so many friends all over the country who are committed to our campaign.”

Clinton Statement On Vilsack Withdrawl

CLINTON STATEMENT ON VILSACK WITHDRAWAL

Following is a statement released today by Senator Hillary Clinton:

"I have been proud to work with Tom Vilsack for years on the challenges facing our country, and I have a deep admiration for both Tom and Christie.

"Tom has made Iowa a leader in renewable energy and created thousands of jobs as one of America's great governors. We share a passion for protecting America's young people through expanded health care options, early childhood education initiatives and opening the doors to higher education to every American.

"I know he will continue to contribute to the dialogue about how to move America forward."

Kathleen Strand To Serve As Clinton NH Communications Director

CLINTON HIRES KATHLEEN STRAND TO SERVE AS NH CAMPAIGN COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Democratic Party Communications Head Worked in State in 2004 and 2006

The Clinton presidential campaign announced today that Kathleen Strand will be joining the campaign as New Hampshire Communications Director. Strand, who currently serves as Communications Director for the New Hampshire Democratic Party, worked in the Granite State as the Press Secretary for the Kerry-Edwards campaign in 2004 and was the Deputy Press Secretary in Iowa for Richard Gephardt's presidential campaign.

"I am extremely proud and excited to be joining Senator Clinton's campaign. She possesses the wisdom, experience and vision to take this country in the direction it needs to go," said Strand. "Senator Clinton is looking forward to many conversations with Granite Staters in the coming months, and I am thrilled to join her in this historic effort."

Kathleen served as the press secretary for the 2004 New Hampshire coordinated campaign. In addition, she worked for Congressman Richard Gephardt's presidential campaign as his Deputy Press Secretary in Iowa.

Strand joins Nick Clemons, who was recently named New Hampshire state director for the Clinton campaign. She grew up in Chicago, IL and received her Bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Florida Representatives Endorse Clinton For President

REPS WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, HASTINGS ENDORSE CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT

Join other South Florida and Tampa leaders in supporting Hillary for President

The Clinton Campaign today announced the endorsements of leading Florida elected officials, including Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Congressman Alcee Hastings.

“We need a leader with a clear vision and sound judgment, who can work with a Democratic Congress to renew the promise of America. Hillary is that leader,” Rep. Wasserman Schultz said.

Rep. Hastings said, “When we elect the next President Clinton, this country will be a much better place for the African-American community, Floridians and all Americans.”

Both Reps. Wasserman Schultz and Hastings serve in the Democratic leadership in the House of Representatives, and Hastings is the Vice Chair of Florida’s congressional delegation.

Former Tampa Mayor Sandy Freedman also endorsed Tuesday, saying “Hillary Clinton is the most qualified candidate of either party in this race, and that's why she's going to be elected.”

“I am grateful for the overwhelming support I’ve received in Florida,” Senator Hillary Clinton said. “These local leaders will be vital to our efforts to renew America’s promise.”

Clinton Announces South Carolina Endorsements

CLINTON ANNOUNCES SOUTH CAROLINA ENDORSEMENTS

The Clinton Campaign today announced the endorsements of prominent elected officials from across South Carolina.

Former Legislative Black Caucus Chairs State Representative David J. Mack III of North Charleston and State Representative John Scott Jr. of Columbia were joined by State Representative Terry Alexander and former State Senator Maggie Glover of Florence in announcing their support for Senator Clinton.

“I said in 2004 that Hillary Clinton would be the best candidate,” said Rep. Scott. “It’s proving to be true. She is focused on the real issues such as education and better jobs. And she has the ability to lead our nation.”

Three Richland County officials also endorsed Hillary Monday, including Richland County Councilwomen Bernice G. Scott and Joyce Dickerson, and Richland County School District One Commissioner Dwayne Smiling.

“Hillary Clinton is the only one with the expertise and experience to move us out of crisis and into the future,” Scott said.

Smiling said, “I’m just a great supporter of hers. I think she would make an excellent president. Her vision and forward thinking is what this country needs.”

Also announcing their support today were Charleston County Councilmen Henry Darby and Teddie Pryor Sr., as well as Marva Smalls.

“I am grateful for the outpouring of support I’ve received in the Palmetto State,” said Senator Hillary Clinton. “These prominent South Carolinians are leaders in their communities and I’m honored to have their support.”

Today’s announcements add to Senator Clinton’s early South Carolina endorsements. Last week, State Senators Robert Ford and Darrell Jackson announced their support for Hillary’s candidacy.

Clinton Announces Nevada Chair

CLINTON ANNOUNCES NEVADA CHAIR

Clark County Commissioner Rory Reid will also be Senior Adviser on Western Issues

Clark County Commission Chairman Rory Reid has been named the Clinton Campaign's Nevada Chair and a Senior Adviser to the campaign on Western issues such as public lands, transportation, resource and conservation issues, growth and affordable housing.

"Rory Reid has a track record of delivering results for Nevadans and a deep understanding of the challenges facing Western states," said Senator Hillary Clinton. "I am delighted that he will lead our effort in the Silver State."

Reid, 44, is Chairman of the Clark County Commission and a former Chair of the Nevada State Democratic Party.

Pirozzi, Hayler and Daley to Lead Clinton Team In Iowa

Pirozzi, Hayler and Daley to Lead Clinton's Team

The Clinton campaign today announced several key additions to its senior staff in Iowa.  Joining State Director, Walnut native and former Chief of Staff to Senator Tom Harkin, JoDee Winterhof, will be Deputy State Director and Caucus Manager Angelique Pirozzi, Political Director Chris Hayler and Communications Director Mark Daley. All three bring extensive experience in Iowa to the campaign.

"Our team in Iowa continues to get stronger and I am excited to be working with these talented individuals," said Senator Hillary Clinton.  "I am eager to spend more time in the Hawkeye state, listening to voters and moving our campaign forward."

Deputy State Director and Caucus Manager Angelique Pirozzi served as Caucus Manager and Get-Out-The-Vote Director for Senator John Kerry's in 2004 and Deputy Caucus Manager for Vice President Al Gore's 2000 Iowa Caucus Victories.  Pirozzi has run numerous races including Vice President Gore's 2000 victory in Wisconsin in the general election.

Political Director Chris Hayler recently worked as Iowa Political Director for U.S. Senator Evan Bayh and has worked across the state for U.S. John Kerry and the Democratic Party's coordinated campaign in 2002.

Communications Director was the Communications Director for the Iowa Democratic Party during the 2004.

"The Clinton campaign in Iowa is attracting significant support across the state," said JoDee Winterhof. "We are thrilled to have the collective skills and deep Iowa experience of these hard working individuals joining our team."