2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Edwards Launches First TV Ad In New Hampshire

EDWARDS LAUNCHES FIRST TV AD IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

Manchester, New Hampshire – Today, the John Edwards for President campaign launched its first television ad in New Hampshire. The ad, “Strength of America,” begins airing today and highlights Edwards’ belief that the strength of our country lies in the American people and that by taking action we can strengthen the middle class, lift families out of poverty and transform America. The ad also highlights the campaign’s intensified commitment to engage New Hampshire voters. The campaign made the decision to go up on the air in New Hampshire after determining that it was on track to raise the $40 million needed to implement the campaign plan.

“As we continue to expand our campaign’s effort in New Hampshire, we are proud to unveil our first TV ad, which highlights the responsibility we all have to get involved and make a difference,” said deputy campaign manager Jonathan Prince. “We are excited by the response that John Edwards is seeing from New Hampshire voters and we look forward to engaging them in our campaign to create one America with equal opportunity for all our people.”

The ad focuses on the larger sense of responsibility that we share to build a better America for ourselves, for our neighbors and for our children. Edwards has made a call to action for all Americans a central theme of his campaign and this ad aims to amplify that call to New Hampshire voters. Edwards has worked to empower Americans through service in many ways, including through his service organization, One Corps, service trips to New Orleans and by encouraging young people to stand up and get involved. Edwards has spoken with New Hampshire families across the state about our responsibility to help each other as he has outlined his plans to:

• Provide truly universal health care
• Help families save and give them what they need to fall back on in rough times: savings, home equity and secure pensions
• Strengthen schools and make college affordable

The full script of the ad is below.

“STRENGTH OF AMERICA” (TV -:30)

John Edwards:
“Will we make America, the country of the 21st Century?
That depends on all of us.
It’s not that we don’t know what needs to be done.
To lift families out of poverty.
To strengthen the middle class in this country.
We know what needs to be done.
The strength in America is not just in the Oval office,
The strength in America is in this room,  right now.
It’s the American people.
And it’s time for the President of the United States to ask Americans to be patriotic about something other than war.”
“I’m John Edwards and I approve this message.”

Edwards Campaign Launches Next Step in Mobile Engagement Campaign

EDWARDS CAMPAIGN LAUNCHES NEXT STEP IN MOBILE ENGAGEMENT CAMPAIGN

Chapel Hill, North Carolina – Today, the John Edwards for President campaign announced the launch of the next step in its mobile engagement campaign - a new text message fundraising initiative. The Edwards campaign continues lead the field by using new and different technologies to reach out to, connect with and engage voters. Today, thousands of people who have signed up to stay in touch with the campaign through text messages will get a message directing them to a voicemail message from John Edwards, urging them to make a contribution to the campaign.  The script of the voicemail follows:

"Hi, this is John Edwards. Thank you for taking the time to respond to our text and listen to my message. If you want to skip this message, remember, you can press 1 at anytime to be directly connected to a live volunteer at campaign headquarters. I'm calling to remind you that with just over a week before the end of the quarter the time to act is now. I'm not asking you to help us out-raise everyone else.  I'm only asking you for what we need to get our message of real change out to voters in Iowa, New Hampshire, and other key states nationwide. If we can raise enough money to do that—we'll have what we need to win.

"Our phone banks will be open until 10pm EDT tonight so if you can make a contribution now please press 1 to be connected. If you're in the middle of something and can't stay on the line you can always go to johnedwards.com to make a contribution to the campaign anytime.  Thanks for your support and for joining this movement for change”

The John Edwards for President campaign has been using text messages to connect with supporters for months.  Supporters regularly receive messages to let them know about national events – like Democratic presidential debates – and when Edwards will be in their area.  During the last debate, the campaign asked supporters to text their thoughts and reactions and later featured the messages on johnedwards.com.  Upcoming plans for more advanced forms of mobile outreach will transform text message communications from one-way broadcasts to a truly interactive experience that will allow voters to connect with the campaign in new and different ways. 

"New media technology is transforming the political landscape and allowing voters to take their politics with them every day, not just on Election Day," said campaign spokesperson Colleen Murray. "John Edwards is committed to using as many innovative ways as possible to reach out to the America people about his message for bold, transformational change.  This is only the beginning of how new media technologies will be integrated into the campaign."
Earlier this week, the Edwards campaign launched the ‘Demand and Be Heard’ competition through Eventful.com, where Edwards will visit and speak in the city that ‘Demands’ him the most.  Demanders can also submit questions online for Edwards as part of the competition, and Edwards will answer ten of those questions from the winning city at the rally.

To join the Edwards mobile network text the word "TODAY" to 30644 or visit http://www.johnedwards.com/txt.

John Edwards Picks Up Support In Michigan

EDWARDS PICKS UP SUPPORT IN MICHIGAN
50 Democrats endorse Edwards for president 

Detroit, Michigan – As Senator John Edwards visits Detroit to discuss his plan to guarantee quality, affordable health care to every American, the John Edwards for President campaign announced that 50 Michigan Democratic leaders are endorsing Edwards for president.  Edwards’ campaign to transform America already has the support of two Michigan leaders: Congressman Bart Stupak, who endorsed Edwards in February and former Congressman David Bonior, who is leading Edwards’ campaign as the National Campaign Manager.  In April, Edwards delivered the keynote address at the Michigan Democratic Party’s Jefferson-Jackson Dinner.

“I can’t think of anything more important that I could be doing than working to elect John Edwards our next president,” said Bonior.  “He is a leader in the fight for social and economic justice in our country and I’m proud to be a part of his campaign to create a working society where every person who works hard has the chance to achieve the American Dream.”

"Through his leadership on poverty, the minimum wage and with the victims of Hurricane Katrina, John Edwards brings morality and voice to issues too often ignored,” said Rev. Michael C. Murphy.  “The prophet Amos said 'let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.'  Senator Edwards’ willingness to speak truth to power embodies this spirit."
Former State Senator and environmental leader Lana Pollack endorsed Edwards saying, “I’m thrilled that John Edwards is running for president because he is not afraid to speak the truth on even the toughest issues. He is the only one taking on the issue of poverty in a way that counts. He clearly has the strongest position on the biggest environmental challenge we face -- global warming.”

Sheriff Mark Hackel said, “John Edwards is committed to the working people of this country. He cares about our future, jobs, and health care. He’s the one person who can bring us all together.”

“These are tough times in Michigan with many complicated issues,” said State Representative Fred Miller.  “John Edwards is the kind of leader with real plans to address the problems we are facing in these tough economic times in Michigan. As the son of blue-collar workers, John understands the concerns of Michigan’s working families and knows that now is the time to stand up and fight for what is right. My colleagues and I are proud to endorse John Edwards for president and ask others to stand with us to create a better America.”

Edwards Iowa Campaign Announces 99 County Chairs

EDWARDS IOWA CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCES 99 COUNTY CHAIRS
Edwards Campaign First In Iowa to Announce Chairs in Every County in State

Waterloo, Iowa – As Elizabeth Edwards visited Iowa for the grand opening of the campaign’s Waterloo office, the John Edwards for President campaign today announced that it has signed up county chairs for all 99 Iowa counties.   

The Edwards campaign becomes the first campaign -- Democratic or Republican -- to announce county chairs for each of Iowa’s 99 counties.  These chairs - including elected officials, educators and influential business and community leaders – will work to organize their county for Senator Edwards and spread the word about his detailed and specific plans, from ending the war in Iraq to guaranteeing health care for every American.

In April, Edwards announced that the campaign had signed up a rural chairperson in all 99 counties to focus specifically on organizing the rural portions of every county.  The county chairs announced today will work with the rural county chairs and others throughout their county to mobilize support for Senator Edwards.

The announcement comes just days before Senator Edwards will visit Iowa to discuss his plans to end the war in Iraq, pass truly universal health care and revitalize the economy of small towns across America. Mrs. Edwards return to Iowa to accompany him for several stops during the three-day campaign swing.

“All of us – right here in Iowa and across the country – need to take action to start changing our country today,” Senator Edwards said.  “I appreciate the support of the many business, civic and community leaders who have agreed to lead our campaign effort in every Iowa county.  They will also advise me on the issues that matter to Iowans -- because I believe it’s time America had a president who put the concerns of everyday Americans first.”

“John and Elizabeth Edwards understand the challenges that regular Iowans face – from paying the health care bill to sending your kid to college,” said Joy Lowe, a county coordinator for Black Hawk County.  “But even more importantly, Senator Edwards is the candidate with the best and most specific ideas about how to help families in Iowa, as well as to end the war and improve our standing in the world.  I’m honored to be part of this campaign because I believe he’s not only our best candidate, but he’ll make a great president who can deliver for Iowa families.” 

Edwards’ 99 County Chairs are:

John Edwards for President
Iowa County Chairs and Co-Chairs

Linda Madison, Adair, Adair
Pat Kennedy, Corning, Adams
Toni Kolsrud, Waterville, Allamakee
Judith Engle, Waukon, Allamakee
Justine Heffron, Centerville, Appanoose
Debbie Kury, Centerville, Appanoose
Alan Smalley, Audubon, Audubon
Peggy Smalley, Audubon County Treasurer, Audubon, Audubon
Rosemary Schwartz, Former Benton County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Vinton, Benton
Joy Lowe, Former Black Hawk County Democratic Party Central Committee Vice Chair, Waterloo, Black Hawk
Russ Lowe, Waterloo, Black Hawk
Marilyn Jordan, Boone, Boone
Georgia Robertson, Boone County Democratic Party Central Committee Co-Chair, Boone, Boone
Peg Dunbar, Former Bremer County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Waverly, Bremer
Richard MacHacek, Iowa Democratic Party State Central Committee Member, Winthrop, Buchanan
Michelle Ficken, Independence, Buchanan
Eugene Ficken, Independence, Buchanan
Juanita Hamilton, Storm Lake, Buena Vista
Willis Hamilton, Storm Lake, Buena Vista
Rod Baker, Parkersburg, Butler
Susie Baker, Parkersburg, Butler
Colin McCullough, Rockwell City, Calhoun
Bill Clinton, Carroll, Carroll
William Kennedy, Anita, Cass
Mary Sesker, Tipton, Cedar
Patricia Furchtenicht, West Branch, Cedar
Pat Steinfort, Mason City, Cerro Gordo
Chris Petersen, Iowa Farmer's Union President, Clear Lake, Cerro Gordo
Janet Sundberg, Cherokee, Cherokee
Pat Wegman, Chickasaw County Attorney, New Hampton, Chickasaw
Stephen Waterman, Osceola, Clarke
Bill O'Hearn, Spencer, Clay
Brenda Gibbs, Garnavillo, Clayton
Highland Nichols, Clinton, Clinton
Les Lewis, Former Crawford County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Denison, Crawford
Kay Nelson, Dow City, Crawford
Daniel Spellman Sr, Perry, Dallas
Karen Miller, West Des Moines, Dallas
Kurt Swaim, State Representative, Bloomfield, Davis
Marie McBroom, Decatur, Decatur
Judy McMahon, Manchester, Delaware
Mike McMahon, Manchester, Delaware
Sandy Dockendorff, Danville, Des Moines
Jeannette Kline, President of Burlington Iowa State Education Association Chapter, Burlington, Des Moines
Greg Stevens, Former State Representative, Milford, Dickinson
Becky Sisco, Dubuque, Dubuque
Don Brown, Estherville, Emmet
Peggy Sherrets, Oelwein, Fayette
Loyd Johnson, Nashua, Floyd
Renee Bultman, Hampton, Franklin
Steve Mac Donald, Fremont County Sheriff, Farragut, Fremont
Alis Martin, Grand Junction, Greene
Peggy Husmann, Morrison, Grundy
Rose Edwards, Stuart, Guthrie
Janet Adams, Webster City City Councilwoman, Former State Representative, Former Webster County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Webster City, Hamilton
Jim Devine, Corwith, Hancock
Sue Seedorff-Keninger, Ackley, Hardin
Mike Vittitoe, Missouri Valley, Harrison
Mickey Dingman, New London, Henry
Jerry Dingman, Henry County Democratic Party Central Committee Vice Chair, New London, Henry
Cathy Helman, Salem, Henry
David Helman, Henry County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Salem, Henry
Matt Malek, Howard County Democratic Party Central Committee Co-Chair, Cresco, Howard
Barb Zabel, Humboldt, Humboldt
Mike Zabel, Humboldt, Humboldt
Phyllis Groth, Battle Creek, Ida
Jamie Whitmer, Holstein, Ida
Tammy Kesterson, Iowa Democratic Party State Central Committee Member, Marengo, Iowa
Jane Dubert, Maquoketa, Jackson
Daniel Kelley, Jasper County Democratic Party Central Committee Vice Chair, Newton, Jasper
Jo Ann Crouch, Fairfield, Jefferson
Terrence Neuzil, Johnson County Supervisor, Iowa City, Johnson
David Redlawsk, University of Iowa Professor, Iowa City, Johnson
Victoria Tapken, Anamosa, Jones
Ron George, Keokuk County Sheriff, Keswick, Keokuk
Dennis McGuire, Algona, Kossuth
Sandy Chapman, Former Lee County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Fort Madison, Lee
Bob Jury, Farmington, Lee
Ernie Schiller, Lee County Supervisor, Donnellson, Lee
Donald Zeller, Linn County Sheriff, Palo, Linn
Lauri Lumm-Usher, Marion, Linn
Joel Miller, Linn County Auditor, Robins, Linn
Trish Schaefer, Former Mayor, Morning Sun, Louisa
Franklin Best, Former Mayor, Columbus City, Louisa
Joan Amos, Chariton, Lucas
Ron  Scholten, Larchwood, Lyon
Joyce Kooker, Winterset, Madison
Cynthia Drost, Former Mahaska County Recorder, New Sharon, Mahaska
Pat Sodak, Oskaloosa, Mahaska
Maureen Nichols, Knoxville, Marion
Sara Hansen, Marshalltown, Marshall
Carol Crawford, Glenwood, Mills
Elaine Smolik, Osage, Mitchell
Bonnie Banks, Mapleton, Monona
Jody Ewing, Iowa Democratic Party State Central Committee Member, Onawa, Monona
Marjorie Demoss, Albia, Monroe
Leland Carmichael, Former Mayor, Former Montgomery County Supervisor, Villisca, Montgomery
Henry Marquard, Iowa Environmental Protection Commission President, Muscatine, Muscatine
Sharon Marquard, Muscatine, Muscatine
Kas Kelly, Muscatine County Supervisor, Muscatine, Muscatine
Marilyn Brubaker, Paullina, O'Brien
Phyllis Vanwyk, Sibley, Osceola
Roberta Farmer, Clarinda, Page
Peter Hart, Palo Alto County Attorney, Emmetsburg, Palo Alto
Ron Stopak, Le Mars, Plymouth
Calista Hammes, Pocahontas, Pocahontas
John Campbell, Union Activist, Steelworker, Des Moines, Polk
Thomas Fisher, Former State Representative, Des Moines, Polk
Barbara Miller, West Des Moines, Polk
Dennis Anderson, Polk County Sheriff, Des Moines, Polk
Dean Jennings, Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie
Pamela Wilson, Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie
Ellie Snook, Poweshiek County Supervisor, Montezuma, Poweshiek
Jim Uhlenkamp, Former Ringgold County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Mount Ayr, Ringgold
Russ Hass, Sac City, Sac
Ann Hutchinson, Former Mayor, Bettendorf, Scott
Beverly Strayhall, Davenport, Scott
Roger Butts, Reverend, Davenport, Scott
Mel Clothier, Harlan, Shelby
Michelle Vanwyk, Ireton, Sioux
Sande McNabb, Ames, Story
Lynne Baltzer, Ames, Story
Dori Rammelsberg-Dvorak, Iowa Democratic Party Secretary, Tama County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Clutier, Tama
Pam King, Bedford, Taylor
Jan Knock, Creston, Union
Lori Hays, Creston, Union
Todd Wolverton, Creston, Union
Vicki Shepard, Van Buren County Democratic Party Central Committee, Keosauqua, Van Buren
Dave McMillin, Ottumwa, Wapello
Sally Steffen, Former Wapello County Supervisor, Ottumwa, Wapello
Ray Walton, Indianola, Warren
Joshua Brown, Indianola, Warren
Jo-Ann Zager, Brighton, Washington
William Gode, Corydon, Wayne
Char Gustufson, Fort Dodge, Webster
Roger Olien, Scarville, Winnebago
Lyle Otte, Former Winneshiek County Democratic Party Central Committee Secretary, Decorah, Winneshiek
Georgie Klevar, Winneshiek County Democratic Party Central Committee Vice-Chair, Decorah, Winneshiek
Mac Smith, Sioux City, Woodbury
Connie Richardson Smith, Sioux City, Woodbury
Al Sturgeon, Former State Representative, Former Woodbury County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Sioux City, Woodbury
Wayne Estes, Northwood, Worth
Denise Hocraffer, Wright County Democratic Party Central Committee Chair, Clarion, Wright

John Edwards NH Debate Reviews

THE REVIEWS PILE ON -- PUNDITS AND VOTERS AGREE: EDWARDS IMPRESSIVE, HAS TOP ANSWERS

Des Moines Register’s Yepsen: Edwards “Did Himself the Most Good,” Was “Confident,” and Argued “Forcefully” and “Deftly.”  Des Moines Register political columnist David Yepsen declared “Edwards probably did himself the most good” from the New Hampshire debate.  Yepsen pointed out that Edwards was “confident,” “argued forcefully for quickly ending the war in Iraq and for his national health care plan,” and “deftly defused his own vote for the war by repeating his line that held he made a mistake voting for it and praising Obama for having opposed it[.]” Des Moines Register, 6/4/07 <http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007706040341

CNN: Voters Declared Edwards’ Commitment to Honesty Top Answer in the Debate. CNN’s John Roberts this morning said that according to a focus group of voters watching the debate, Edwards’ statement, “it is important for anybody who seeks to be the next president of the United States, given the dishonesty that we've been faced with over the last several years, to be honest to the country” was “one of the top answers” that the group “really liked.”  Roberts noted that during Edwards’ statement, “approval is really going up.” [CNN, 6/4/07]

NY Daily News’ Michael Goodwin: “Edwards Wins with 1 Word: Leadership.”  New York Daily News Columnist Michael Goodwin declared that Edwards won the debate, titling his column, “Edwards wins with 1 word: Leadership.” Goodwin wrote, “Edwards won the second Democratic presidential debate,” adding, “He did it the old-fashioned way - by seizing on a single message and banging it home repeatedly. His theme was leadership[.]”  Goodwin called Edwards’ style “A clever approach.” New York Daily News, 6/4/07 <http://www.nydailynews.com/news/wn_report/2007/06/04/2007-06-04_edwards_wins_with_1_word_leadership-2.html

NH Public Radio: New Hampshire Voters Impressed with Edwards.  According to report by Jon Greenberg on New Hampshire Public Radio, Edwards made a “favorable impression” with each of the three New Hampshire voters he interviewed.  Greenberg reported that Exeter native Karen Prior gained “positive feelings” from Edwards and ended the debate with “new found respect for Edwards.” Greenberg said, “All three of these voters liked [Edwards’] insistence that congressional Democrats should have stood up to the threat of a presidential veto on the recent war funding bill.” New Hampshire Public Radio, 6/4/07 <http://www.nhpr.org/node/13024

Daily Kos Readers Declare Edwards The Winner.  According to the Daily Kos poll following the debate, “Who do you think won the debate,” John Edwards led the pack with 27% of the 10,956 votes cast, followed by Obama at 23%, and Clinton at 17%.  dailykos.com, accessed 9:10 a.m. on 6/4/07 <http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2007/6/3/202220/3188

CNN’s Candy Crowley: Edwards “Stood Out” and Resonated with the New Hampshire Audience.  Following the debate, Candy Crowly reported on CNN that Edwards “clearly stood out at this debate … clearly there was some resonance with this audience.”  Crowley added that “You see some of the same John Edwards out on the stump, I think he played to a broader audience obviously last night.” [CNN, 6/4/07]

WashingtonPost.com’s “The Fix”: Edwards “Initiated” Debate’s “Signature Exchange.”  Chris Cillizza of WashingtonPost.com’s “The Fix,” wrote, “The signature exchange of the event was initiated by former Sen. John Edwards (D-N.C.). Edwards acknowledged he had made a mistake by voting for the 2002 use-of-force resolution, but pivoted to note he has sought to lead on the issue since admitting his error -- drawing a direct contrast with the leadership that Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.) and Hillary Rodham Clinton (N.Y.) have shown on the war. ‘There is a difference between leading and following,’ said Edwards.” WashingtonPost.com’s “The Fix,” 6/3/07 <http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2007/06/debate_wrapup.html

NBC’s Chuck Todd: Edwards Was “Strong Performer” of Debate; Was Edwards’ “Best Debate Performance to Date.”  NBC’s Chuck Todd wrote tonight, “John Edwards seemed very engaged and clearly carved out opportunities to engage Clinton and Obama. The press coverage will reflect this which the Edwards campaign will see as a victory. Bottom line, it was Edwards best debate performance to date (and I'm counting the one from this year and the ones from 2003-4).” MSNBC’s First Read, 6/3/07 <http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/06/03/212199.aspx

CNN’s Donna Brazile: Edwards “Smart” and “Bold” During Debate.  Donna Brazile praised Edwards’ debate performance.  Brazile said, “But Senator Edwards, I also believe, came out looking very smart, he was bold, he talked about his distinctions, the differences, with the other candidates[.]”  Brazile also thought Senator Edwards was the best prepared of all the candidates. CNN, 6/3/07; CNN.com, 6/3/07 <http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/06/03/donnas-scorecard-edwards-and-biden-looked-good/

CNN’s Arianna Huffington and Mike Murphy: Edwards Having “Strong” Second Half, Most “Well Briefed.”  In a blog post on CNN’s Political Ticker titled “Comeback Kid,” Arianna Huffington and Mike Murphy praised Edwards’ debate performance.  “Republican Mike Murphy remarked that Senator Edwards is having a ‘strong second half performance.’ Democrat Arianna Huffington thinks he’s the most ‘well briefed’ candidate on the stage … Both agree that Senator Clinton has some competition if she is to come away with the title of ‘debate winner.’” CNN.com, 6/3/07 <http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/06/03/huffington-and-murphy-comeback-kid/

CNN’s Arianna Huffington and Mike Murphy: Impressed With Edwards’ Performance; Both Believe Clinton Needs to “Finally Admit that She Has Made Mistakes.” CNN’s Political Ticker posted under “Just admit it already!” that “Democrat Arianna Huffington and Republican Mike Murphy have finally found some common ground. Both believe that Senator Clinton needs to finally admit that she has made mistakes.  Whether it’s the War in Iraq or gays in the military Hillary ‘never admits she messed up,’ opined Murphy.  Huffington agreed – ‘she just needs to stop parsing words.’ Both commentators have been impressed so far with John Edwards’ admissions of past mistakes and overall performance. CNN.com, 6/3/07 <http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/06/03/murphy-and-huffington-just-admit-it-already/

Edwards Applauded by New Hampshire Voters for Saying He Was Wrong to Vote for the War.  “Former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards got applause from the audience after saying he regretted voting for the Iraq war.  ‘I think I had the information I needed,’ Edwards said. ‘I don’t think that was the question. I think one difference we do have is I think I was wrong. I should never have voted for this war.’” CNN.com, 6/3/07 <http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/06/03/edwards-says-he-was-wrong-gets-applause/

WashingtonPost.com’s “The Fix”: Edwards’ Outlined Plan for Iran “Clearly and Concisely.” Chris Cillizza of WashingtonPost.com’s “The Fix,” said, “Edwards, who is often accused of lacking the foreign policy chops to be president, just clearly and concisely outlined what his administration's approach would be to Iran.”  WashingtonPost.com’s “The Fix,” 6/3/07 <http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/2007/06/edwards_on_iran.html

J.C. Watts: “I Take My Hat Off” to Edwards for Talking about Poverty.  Following the CNN New Hampshire Democratic primary debate, J.C. praised John Edwards’ efforts against poverty.  “[Poverty] is the thing I take my hat off to John Edwards for. At least he’s talking about it. I don’t necessarily agree with his models in how he would deal with poverty. But he’s one of the few candidates on the Republican or Democrat side that is at least ever day you’re hearing something from him about that.” [CNN, 6/3/07]

John Edwards NH Debate "What They Are Saying"

EDWARDS: "STRONG PERFORMER"; "SMART" AND "BOLD"

MSNBC’s Chuck Todd: Edwards Was “Strong Performer” of Debate; Was Edwards’ “Best Debate Performance to Date.”  MSNBC’s Chuck Todd wrote tonight, “John Edwards seemed very engaged and clearly carved out opportunities to engage Clinton and Obama. The press coverage will reflect this which the Edwards campaign will see as a victory. Bottom line, it was Edwards best debate performance to date (and I'm counting the one from this year and the ones from 2003-4).” [MSNBC’s First Read, 6/3/07]

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/06/03/212199.aspx

Donna Brazile: Edwards “Smart” and “Bold” During Debate.
Donna Brazile praised Edwards’ debate performance.  Brazile said, “But Senator Edwards, I also believe, came out looking very smart, he was bold, he talked about his distinctions, the differences, with the other candidates[.]” [CNN, 6/3/07]

Daily Kos Readers Declared Edwards The Winner.  According to the Daily Kos poll on the night of the debate, “Who do you think won the debate,” had John Edwards leading the pack with 25% of the 1998 votes cast, followed by Obama at 22%, and Clinton at 17%.  [dailykos.com, accessed at 9:30pm 6/3/07]

http://www.dailykos.com/poll/1180916540_juiXVLUI

Larry King: Edwards was “Leading” with “Very, Very Strong Presentation.” Larry King said during the intermission of the CNN New Hampshire Democratic primary debate that Edwards was leading the field.  King said, “Senator Edwards leading the force in carrying on a very, very, strong presentation[.]” [CNN, 6/3/07]

CNN’s Arianna Huffington and Mike Murphy: Edwards Having “Strong” Second Half, Most “Well Briefed.”  In a blog post on CNN’s Political Ticker titled “Comeback Kid,” Arianna Huffington and Mike Murphy praised Edwards’ debate performance.  “Republican Mike Murphy remarked that Senator Edwards is having a ‘strong second half performance.’ Democrat Arianna Huffington thinks he’s the most ‘well briefed’ candidate on the stage … Both agree that Senator Clinton has some competition if she is to come away with the title of ‘debate winner.’” [CNN.com, 6/3/07]

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/06/03/huffington-and-murphy-comeback-kid/

CNN’s Arianna Huffington and Mike Murphy: Impressed With Edwards’ Performance; Both Believe Clinton Needs to “Finally Admit that She Has Made Mistakes.” CNN’s Political Ticker posted under “Just admit it already!” that “Democrat Arianna Huffington and Republican Mike Murphy have finally found some common ground. Both believe that Senator Clinton needs to finally admit that she has made mistakes.  Whether it’s the War in Iraq or gays in the military Hillary ‘never admits she messed up,’ opined Murphy.  Huffington agreed – ‘she just needs to stop parsing words.’ Both commentators have been impressed so far with John Edwards’ admissions of past mistakes and overall performance. [CNN.com, 6/3/07]

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/06/03/murphy-and-huffington-just-admit-it-already/

Edwards Applauded by New Hampshire Voters for Saying He Was Wrong to Vote for the War.  “Former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards got applause from the audience after saying he regretted voting for the Iraq war.  ‘I think I had the information I needed,’ Edwards said. ‘I don’t think that was the question. I think one difference we do have is I think I was wrong. I should never have voted for this war.’” [CNN.com, 6/3/07]

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/06/03/edwards-says-he-was-wrong-gets-applause/

John Edwards Statement On Memorial Day

EDWARDS STATEMENT ON MEMORIAL DAY

Chapel Hill, North Carolina – Senator John Edwards released the following statement today commemorating Memorial Day.

“Today, Elizabeth and I offer up our prayers in memory of all those who have fallen for America, and our hearts go out to their families. We honor all the brave men and women in uniform who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.  Because of their courage, our country is safer.  Because of their dedication to the causes of liberty and justice, our country remains the land of the free.  And because of their sacrifice, we are a stronger nation and a stronger people.  We honor these heroes especially on this day, but every day we should remember the sacrifice they made to protect our freedom.”

Edwards Launches "Women For Edwards"

EDWARDS LAUNCHES “WOMEN FOR EDWARDS”
Receives Support from Women Leaders from Across the Country; Announces Agenda to Address Issues Facing Women

Des Moines, Iowa – At a town hall in Des Moines today, Senator John Edwards launched “Women for Edwards” and laid out his agenda to ensure fairness and equality for women.  Edwards also received support from 140 national women leaders from across the country, and more than 1,500 women from Iowa. Edwards encouraged women to join Women for Edwards at http://johnedwards.com/women.

“We need to make the idea of America – equality of opportunity, regardless of race, gender or income – real for all Americans,” said Edwards.  “Today, too many women are separated from the opportunities of our country because of their gender. We need to ensure fairness and equality for all women and work to lift up working mothers.”

“I believe in John's deep and profound commitment to the issues that matter most in women's lives,” said Kate Michelman, President Emeritus of NARAL Pro-Choice America. “From health care, to Iraq, to poverty, to our environment, I know John is the most effective national messenger for the values we share and I have complete confidence that -- with our help -- he will win the White House and improve the lives of women everywhere.”

Women still make only 77 cents for every dollar earned by men and they are 45 percent more likely to live in poverty.  Edwards believes we need to make a commitment to helping working women and strengthening our families.   Today, he detailed his plans to improve the lives of women at work and at home.  Specifically, Edwards called for:

• Guaranteeing that every woman has health insurance by providing universal health care.
• Ending poverty. Edwards has called for an end to poverty within 30 years, with policies rooted in the core American values of work, opportunity and responsibility.
• Helping women balance work and family by expanding the Family and Medical Leave Act to let parents take time off from work when they need it.  Edwards also supports more resources for childcare and after-school programs to give children a safe place to learn while their parents are at work.
• Fighting discrimination by enacting the Paycheck Fairness Act to strengthen the remedies for sex discrimination and deter wrongdoing, and expanding resources for female entrepreneurs.
• Protecting a woman’s right to choose.

In addition to Michelman, prominent women leaders endorsing Edwards include Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Sandlin and former New Mexico Attorney General Patricia Madrid.

“Too many women are not getting the health care they need,” said Johnson. “John Edwards is the only candidate to outline a specific plan to provide universal coverage and I’m proud to be part of a campaign – the only campaign – with a detailed plan to cover all Americans.”

"John Edwards has laid out detailed proposals to strengthen families and help working women," said Herseth Sandlin.  "John Edwards understands the need to prioritize families through good public policy that recognizes the contributions of America's women.

“I am proud to endorse my friend, Senator John Edwards,” said Madrid. “He has always stood to fight for real change in women’s lives – working tirelessly to raise the minimum wage, end poverty and guarantee universal health care.”

Minnesota women leaders endorsing Edwards for president are:

• Gail Dorfman, Hennepin County Commissioner (MN)
• Keesha Gaskins, Minneapolis DFL Chair (for identification purposes only)
• Alice Hausman, Minnesota State Representative 
• Becky Lourey, Former Minnesota State Senator 
• Erin Murphy, Minnesota State Representative
• Laura Nevitt, Minnesota Dean State Director 2004 
• Ann Rest, Minnesota State Senator 
• Marsha Swails, Minnesota State Representative

John Edwards For President Campaign Releases Iowa Specific Website

JOHN EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT CAMPAIGN RELEASES IOWA SPECIFIC WEBSITE
www.JohnEdwards.com/Iowa gives voters direct link to campaign in their area

Des Moines, Iowa – The John Edwards for President campaign today released a website specifically for Iowa’s first-in-the-nation caucus goers. The web site, www.JohnEdwards.com/Iowa, provides Iowans with information on how to get involved in the campaign as well as details on Edwards’ bold and specific plans on issues from Iraq to universal health care.  It also tracks John and Elizabeth Edwards travels throughout Iowa and it will include pictures and video of their discussions with everyday Iowans.

“Iowa is the first stop in our drive to change America – and success here is going to be critical,” said Edwards. “Elizabeth and I have had many opportunities to visit with Iowans over the past few years, but this web site will give Iowans the chance to learn more about my plans for bold change.  Most importantly, it is a tool that will help Iowans get involved in the important challenges facing our country today.”   

The Iowa website -- which will be regularly updated -- includes:

• News from the campaign trail
• Pictures and video of John and Elizabeth Edwards as they visit with Iowans
• Downloadable fact sheets and other items so that caucus goers can learn about Edwards’ positions on the issues – and then share that information with friends and neighbors
• A six minute video detailing John Edwards plan for universal health coverage
• Lists of upcoming events

Many ways to get involved, including registering as a supporter of the campaign, offering to volunteer, and an email feature allowing Iowans to invite friends and family to visit the site and learn more about the campaign
A page allowing caucus goers to get in contact with the nearest campaign office
Additional features and information will be added throughout the campaign, and Edwards invited Iowans – whether they are already supporters or still undecided -- to check back at the page frequently to hear the latest news from the campaign

Edwards Gains Support Of More Than 40 Prominent Virginia Democrats

EDWARDS GAINS SUPPORT OF MORE THAN 40 PROMINENT VIRGINIA DEMOCRATS

Chapel Hill, North Carolina - Senator John Edwards continues to gain support from people across the country, and today the John Edwards for President campaign announced that more than 40 Virginia Democratic leaders endorsed Edwards for president.  These prominent leaders include state House Democratic Leader Ward Armstrong, numerous state legislators, a former President of the NAACP's Virginia State Caucus and a number of Virginia Democratic Party officials. These leaders join Virginia Democratic Party Chairman Dick Cranwell, who endorsed Edwards in February, in supporting Edwards for President.

"John Edwards will restore our standing in the world and lift up all Americans and Virginians," said Armstrong. "As we work to take back the Virginia state House, I am proud to have Senator Edwards as a partner in bringing hope and prosperity to all Americans."

"When I endorsed John in February, I said that it was because Democrats need to put our best candidate forward in 2008, and that John Edwards was the fastest horse in the race," said Cranwell.  "I am proud to see that so many strong Virginia Democrats agree."

State Senator Janet Howell endorsed Edwards saying, "He has specific plans to end the war, provide universal health care, fight global warming and strengthen the middle class.  Edwards is exactly the kind of leader we need."