GEN. WESLEY CLARK TO RALLY FOR WULSIN SATURDAY

NATO Supreme Allied Commander Stumps for Wulsin at VFW Hall in Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH -- Victoria Wulsin will be joined by retired General Wesley Clark on Saturday morning for a rally and press conference at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall in Pleasant Ridge. Clark, the former presidential candidate and Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, will talk about the war in Iraq and the importance of electing a Democratic Congress that will conduct real oversight of the war.

Clark and Wulsin will be joined by Tim Goodrich, executive director of the Iraqi Veterans for Progress, a political organization that advocates a new course for the war in Iraq. Iraqi Veterans for Progress has hired an veteran of the Iraq war as a full time field coordinator for the Wulsin for Congress campaign.

Wesley Clark rally and press conference
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4
9:30 AM: Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall
6112 Montgomery Rd
Pleasant Ridge

Voting Protecters Needed in OH-02

Dear White Knight Bloggers,

I know you are getting many appeals for volunteering on election day. But this is a special request for a certain type of assistance we NEED on election day.

We are recruiting Election Protection Observers on an immediate basis for the upcoming Congressional election in Southwest Ohio. The State Democratic Party of Ohio has not recruited or placed Election Observers in any of the extremely Republican counties because of traditional strategy, ignoring repeated reports of obfuscation and irregularities in the vote-counting procedures in 2004 and the 2005 special election.

We, a bipartisan board of legal advisors dedicated to fairness, have come together over grave concerns over the loss of faith in the integrity of our electoral system. Partisan groups have often focused their efforts on urban areas and so called “base precincts”. We want to guarantee fairness and openness in all precincts, especially in the ex-urban and rural counties where most Americans live and vote.

We will keep special watch over the elections in Warren and Clermont counties, which have had significant reports of problems and lack of visibility in recent elections. We will not turn a blind eye to voter suppression on the part of either campaign, Democratic or Republican, and we will make sure that every ballot box is tracked and remains untampered.

We need volunteers to be registered observers (the only qualification is a registered voter in the state of Ohio), people to stand-by giving advice on election day, and assistance in filings before that day. Can you help us?

Please contact the election protection office at Wulsin for Congress and help us out! Or go to http://www.wulsinforcongress.com/volunteer and select “Voting Protection Observer”.

Tony Vila
Voter Protection Coordinator
513-233-4180

Schedule for Marc Dann, Candidate for Attorney General

The following schedule from Friday 11.3.06 until Tuesday 11.7.06 is subject to change.

Friday 11.3.06
12:30 pm Debate, Cleveland City Club, 850 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland
2:00 pm Implementing Ohio’s new predatory lending laws, Trinity Commons, 2230 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH
8:30 pm United Negro College Fund, St. Joseph’s Family Center, 610 West Exchange Street, Akron

Saturday 11.4.06
12 pm Rally with Strickland and Brown, AFL-CIO, 4127 E. 2nd Street, Dayton
2 pm Rally with Edwards, United Steelworkers, 501 Kelly Avenue, Akron
3:45 pm GOTV rally with Edwards, Antioch Baptist Church, 8869 Cedar Avenue, Cleveland
9 pm GOTV rally with Obama, Strickland and Brown, 3130 Mayfield Road, Cleveland

Sunday 11.5.06
12 pm GOTV rally with Brown, Boardman Headquarters, 451 Boardman-Canfield Rd., Boardman
1:45 pm GOTV rally with Brown, IBEW Local 246, 626 North 4th Street, Steubenville
4:00 pm GOTV rally with Strickland and Brown, Fiore Pottery Factory, 333 Market Street, Zanesville
6:00 pm GOTV rally with Strickland and Al Green, Living Faith Apolistic Church, Columbus

Monday 11.6.06
10 am Rally with Strickland, Strickland Headquarters, 10 South Superior Street, Toledo
12 pm Rally with Strickland, Hancock County Headquarters, 530 South Main Street, Findlay
1:30 pm Rally with Strickland, Kewpee Burger, 1350 Bellefontaine Street, Lima
5:30 pm Rally with Strickland, Champaign County Headquarters, 111 South Main Street, Urbana
7:30 pm Rally with Strickland, Dale Henry Headquarters, 128 East Main Street, Springfield

Tuesday 11.7.06
4:30 am Teamster’s Local 20 Dawn Patrol Ham and Egg Breakfast, 435 Hawley Street, Toledo
Travel from Toledo to Youngstown (will probably make stops along the way in Cleveland etc.)
Election night- Joey’s Restaurant, 2921 Belmont Avenue, Liberty Township

An Important Message From Frances Strickland

Dear Friends,

I cannot wait until Jennifer Brunner is our Secretary of State.

Protecting our right to vote is central to keeping our democracy strong. And I know that Jennifer Brunner is the right person for this job.

It was 36 years ago when the first Democratic female candidate was elected to statewide office in Ohio. In 2006 we have the opportunity to make history once again. It took hard work then and it will take hard work now. In order to turn around Ohio, Jennifer Brunner should be elected Ohio’s first woman Secretary of State this November.

Jennifer Brunner entered the race for Secretary of State in an effort to bring about a fundamental change in the way elections are run in Ohio. It’s time for a Secretary of State who is experienced and committed to a fair process and who encourages people to make their voice heard in our elections. I believe that Jennifer’s message of fair, reliable and trustworthy elections will resonate with folks all over Ohio.

We have just days left before voters head to the polls, and we must make every moment count. In order to win this election, a substantial number of independent women must vote and support one of our greatest candidates -- Jennifer Brunner! We are asking women all across Ohio to join in this effort.

Jennifer offers leadership that is based on experience, knowledge, and dedication and she has consistently proved that she believes in responsibility and accountability in the Secretary of State’s office.

Jennifer has run an exceptional campaign by:
-- Consistently polling ahead of her opponent,
-- Receiving ALL the major newspaper endorsements of the state,
-- Receiving countless endorsements from key organizations, and
-- Continuously reaching out to ALL Ohio citizens.

Please join us in our efforts to make positive change in Ohio. There are several ways that you can help elect Jennifer Brunner the first female Ohio Secretary of State with the click of a button on jenniferbrunner.com:
-- Contribute. All donations, big or small, help the campaign work to change Ohio.
-- Join our team. If you have 10 hours, 10 minutes, or just a yard to put a sign in, we need volunteers!
-- Tell your friends. Tell your friends, family, and coworkers about Jennifer Brunner. The Women for Brunner page can help you send emails quickly and easily.

A positive appeal delivered by you to concerned female voters can -- and will -- make the difference this year. There are only a few days left until victory -- please act now!

Sincerely,
Frances Strickland

Kilroy to Pryce: Denounce Boehner’s Negative Comments about U.S. Generals

COLUMBUS -- Today, Mary Jo Kilroy, Franklin County commissioner and Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress from Ohio’s 15th Congressional District, called on Deborah Pryce to denounce Republican Majority Leader Congressman John Boehner’s comments blaming U.S. generals for the chaos in Iraq.

During an interview with CNN, Boehner said, “Let’s not blame what’s happening in Iraq on Rumsfeld… But the fact is, the generals on the ground are in charge, and he works closely with them and the president.” [New York Times, “Bush, Trying to Rally Base, Defends Rumsfeld,” 11/2/06]

“Boehner’s comment was a direct swipe at the troops and military leaders fighting this war,” Kilroy said. “They would rather blame our troops for the problems in Iraq than accept their role in the chaos of the war.”

Pryce admitted to the Wall Street Journal that she has never questioned the Bush Administration’s handling of the war, and thinks Rumsfeld is doing a good job.

“On Iraq, for example, Ms. Pryce says: ‘People know there’s no real answer. They don’t really ask about it unless they want to complain about it.’ On the future of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld she says: ‘He knows the intricacies of this war, it’s his war, why put somebody else in there to finish it up?’…About conversations with the White House, she says, ‘If I did see something glaringly wrong, I would not hesitate to bring it up.’ Yet when pressed, she admits: ‘I can’t say I have called them out on how they are conducting the war. No I haven’t.’” [Wall Street Journal, “Ohio House Race is Brutal Test,” 8/31/06]

“Deborah Pryce, George Bush and John Boehner refuse to hold Donald Rumsfeld accountable for the lack of planning and failed execution of the war in Iraq,” Kilroy said. “Instead of holding one of their own accountable, Boehner would rather blame the U.S. generals working hard in Iraq to accomplish their mission. Deborah Pryce should immediately repudiate these terrible remarks Boehner, one of her fellow members of Republican leadership, made.”

Five Days and Counting. . . Help Bring Us to Victory

Dear Supporters,

The election is just five days away and we still can use more help to bring us to victory. We will be conducting telephone banks everyday to contact voters and encourage them to vote for our Democratic Slate. If you have a 2-3 hour block of time that you can give to us on any of these days, you can help make sure that our supporters are contacted. We are also conducting literature drops on Saturday, November 4 and Sunday, November 5 in key Democratic areas.

Our two priorities are as follows:

1. The Literature Drops on Saturday, November 4. We will send supporters out in two waves -- one starting at 10:00 am and one starting at 12:00 pm.
» If you can help on Saturday, click here

2. On Election Day, Tuesday, November 7. We can use help throughout the day, making telephone calls, passing out literature near polling places, and helping with other important Election Day activities.
» If you can help on all or part of Election Day, click here

Please RSVP for these priority efforts with your availability so that we can properly prepare for them.

Below is a complete calendar of events and your help will make a huge difference in the election.

With deepest thanks,
Mayor Mike Coleman

Friday, November 3
Phone Banking
Time: 11:00 am -- 6:00 pm
Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
Contact: Yael Fischer at (614) 221-6563

Saturday, November 4
Phone Banking
Time: 12:00 pm -- 7:00 pm
Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
Contact: Yael Fischer at (614) 221-6563
Literature Drop
Time: 10:00 am
Meeting Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
RSVP: Click here
Literature Drop
Time: 12:00 pm
Meeting Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
RSVP: Click here

Sunday, November 5
Phone Banking
Time: 12:00 pm -- 7:00 pm
Meeting Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
Contact: Yael Fischer at (614) 221-6563
Literature Drop
Time: 1:00 pm -- 3:00 pm
Meeting Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
Literature Drop
Time: 4:00 pm -- 6:00 pm
Meeting Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
2006 Voter Education and Outreach Rally
Join Mike Coleman and our County Chair Bill Anthony in support of our entire Democratic Slate including Congressman Ted Strickland for Governor, State Representative Joyce Beatty, State Representative Candidate Tracy Heard, and welcome our special guest Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones
Time: 5:00 pm -- 7:00 pm
Location: Living Faith Apostolic Church 2177 Mock Rd Columbus, OH 43219
Cost: Free
Invitation: Click here

Monday, November 6
Phone Banking
Time: 11:00 am -- 9:00 pm
Meeting Location: Franklin County Democratic Party Headquarters, 271 E. State St, Columbus, OH 43215
Contact: Yael Fischer at (614) 221-6563

Tuesday, November 7
Phone Banking, Canvassing, Driving, and other Election Day Activities
Time: 6:00 am -- 10:00 am, 10:00 am -- 3:00 pm, and 3:00 pm -- 7:00 pm
RSVP: Click here
Election Night Gathering
Time: 8:00 pm
Location: Hyatt on Capitol Square 75 E. State St Columbus, OH 43215

Volunteer for Victory

We need your help to get out the vote for Sherrod Brown and Democratic candidates.

Democrats are working together like never before to bring change to Ohio in 2006.

Phone banks, door-to-door canvasses, and voter protection efforts are happening now in all 88 counties.

Click here to find volunteer opportunities in your area.

So much is at stake in this election. You can make the difference between more of the same or a new direction for Ohio.

Democrats have a unique opportunity this year to change the political landscape of Ohio.

We cannot leave the outcome of this election to chance.

Help us persuade voters, increase Democratic turnout, and make sure every vote is counted.

Click here to volunteer for victory.

Thank you for all that you do.

Sincerely,

Friends of Sherrod Brown

PS: Click here if you have questions about casting your vote.

Edwards, Strickland, & Katz to Address Minimum Wage Saturday

Who: John Edwards, Ted Strickland, and Lew Katz
Why: Minimum Wage Rally
Where: Antioch Baptist Church, 8869 Cedar Ave., Cleveland
When: Saturday, November 4

Doors open 3:15 p.m. & the event begins at 3:45 p.m.

Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage Events

Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage Canvass Kickoff
When: Saturday, November 4, at 9:30 a.m.
Where: America Votes Staging Area (3631 Perkins Ave., Cleveland)
Who: Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage Volunteers and Supporters

Get-Out-The-Vote and Raise the Wage Rally with John Edwards
When: Saturday, November 4, at 3:30 p.m.
Where: Antioch Baptist Church (8869 Cedar Avenue, Cleveland)
Who: Hosted by the Ohio Democratic Party

ELECTION DAY!
For information on GOTV and canvassing efforts on Election Day, please contact:
Keary McCarthy, Communications Director for Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage;
(614) 425-9163 or keary@vp-cd.com.

ELECTION NIGHT!
Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage will be gathering at the:
Doubletree Suites Hotel, Room 1008, 50 South Front Street, Columbus, Ohio.
The campaign co-chairs will be available for interview between 7:00 and 10:00 p.m. Please join us, or if you’d like to reach the campaign, please call Keary, (614) 425-9163.

Minimum Wage Campaign Rallies Support in Final Days

Columbus, Ohio -- As the campaign to raise Ohio’s minimum wage reaches its final days, several groups, organizations, and individuals will be rallying support among voters all across Ohio. The scheduled events are open to the public and the press.

Rally for Values Voters to Support Issue 2
When: TONIGHT, November 2, at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Broad Street Presbyterian Church (760 E. Broad St., Columbus)
Who: Hosted by Let Justice Roll, Sojourners Call to Renewal, We Believe Ohio, and others.

Victory Realized for Voters: Simplified Identification Requirements

Columbus, OH -- Attorneys for groups representing voters who would be harmed by the new voter ID requirements achieved a significant victory late yesterday. In the third federal challenge to House Bill -- 3 (HB-3), this time on voter identification requirements, Judge Algenon L. Marbley, of the U.S. District Court in Columbus, issued a consent decree easing some of the restrictions that would have hindered some voters from having their votes counted.

One of the challengers’ lead witnesses, Pamela Denton, is a member of the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless. She is a graduate of Spellman College who grew up in Birmingham, Alabama and now lives in Cleveland. Her cousin was one of the girls killed in the infamous bombing outside a Birmingham Church. Having felt the blast that killed her cousin, voting became a right she held dear, and she has voted almost every year since she turned 18. For Pamela, it is a critical part of carrying on the legacy of her parents and Dr. Martin Luther King.

Ms. Denton is homeless, and she has only her social security number for identification. It is difficult for her receive an absentee ballot at a homeless shelter. To vote in person at the board of elections before Election Day, the board was requiring her to show an ID, which she did not have. In Franklin County, her social security number would have sufficed. Secretary of State Ken Blackwell had made little or no attempt as the state’s chief election officer to clarify the law for boards, and varying interpretations on identification abounded.

Ms. Denton wanted her vote to count. If she waited until Election Day to vote, she would have had to vote a provisional ballot that was not certain to be counted. Now, because of the court’s decision, she can vote in person at the board of elections before Election Day, and she knows here vote will be counted.

This marks the third challenge to H.B. 3 in nearly two months. A federal judge in Cleveland struck down provisions relating to additional requirements for naturalized citizens to vote, and another Cleveland federal judge struck down voter registration rules that would have subjected voter registrars to felony penalties.

“While there is more that will need to be done to protect people’s rights to vote, this is an important first step in ensuring every eligible voter who wants to vote can vote without hindrance,” said Jennifer Brunner, Ohio’s Democratic candidate for Secretary of State. “The consent decree will allow the boards of elections to proceed with a settled interpretation of the new law in time to instruct poll workers so that everyone operates with the same rules statewide,” continued Brunner.

As noted in The Cincinnati Enquirer in an October 31 endorsement of Jennifer Brunner, “Ohio has already seen lawsuits challenging its changes to the elections process and should expect more.”

“Brunner’s experience as a special prosecutor on election fraud and her years as special counsel to the secretary of state will make her especially effective in dealing with these challenges,” continued The Enquirer.

Wednesday’s federal court decision will have a huge impact with the general election just days away.

Jennifer Brunner, a former Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge, is uniquely qualified and credentialed to become Ohio ‘ s next Secretary of State. With her service as Legislative Counsel for the Secretary of State ‘ s Office, 13 years of election law private practice experience; including serving as a special prosecutor for election fraud, and making tough decisions as a Judge, she has clearly demonstrated her ability and desire to be Ohio ‘ s top elections official. Brunner has been endorsed b every major newspaper in Ohio, including her opponent’s hometown paper, The Cincinnati Enquirer.

AG Debate Details

Event: Debate and Press availability
Date: Friday, November 2, 2006
Time: 12:30 pm
Location: Cleveland City Club
850 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH

Details: Marc Dann, Candidate for Attorney General, will debate Betty Montgomery before the Cleveland City Club. If you are unable to attend the debate in Cleveland, you may view the debate online at: www.cityclub.org . It will also air live on the following radio stations WCLV (104.9 FM) and WCPN (90.3 FM) and will be aired on PBS-WVIZ on Sunday at 10:00 am.

Following the debate Senator Dann will also be available for press interviews.

Jennifer Brunner: Take 5

Dear Friends:

This is it. We are down to the final 5 days. The time for action is now. We need your help with 5 essential actions.

Please take 5 minutes now to visit our action center and sign up to help Jennifer. We need you to:

1. Contribute $5.00 now. Every dollar will help us keep Jennifer on TV these last 5 days.

2. Phonebank. You can phonebank for Jennifer from anywhere using our virtual phonebanking system. Sign up now: www.jenniferbrunner.com/phonebank

3. Email 5 friends. Forward this email now to 5 people. Tell them why you support Jennifer Brunner and ask them to send this to 5 people too.

4. Canvass. Take a walk around the block. Tell your neighbors about Jennifer and why you support her.

5. Vote for Jennifer! Election day is just around the corner, but you can still vote early. Visit avoidtheline.org to learn more.

That’s it -- it’s just that simple! Please take 5 minutes now and sign up to help Jennifer become Ohio’s next Secretary of State.

With your help, we can win. With your help, Jennifer Brunner will restore trust to Ohio’s elections and end the culture of corruption. And together, we can turn around Ohio.

Sincerely,

The Jennifer Brunner Committee
545 East Town Street
Columbus, OH 43215

P.S. The time for change and action is now. You don’t want to wake up on November 8th wishing you could have done more. Help Jennifer end the culture of corruption and change the way Ken Blackwell and Bob Taft have run elections in this state.

Sign up to help Jennifer today!

U.S. SENATOR BARACK OBAMA TO CAMPAIGN WITH SHERROD BROWN

WHAT: Rally with Senator Barack Obama, Sherrod Brown and other democratic candidates.
WHERE: The Civic, 3130 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights
WHEN: Saturday November 4th

Program starts at 8:00 PM

Dann continues to ask Bureau of Workers’ Compensation for more information on alleged premium price fixing

Columbus -- State Senator Marc Dann, the Democratic nominee for Ohio Attorney General, sent another public records request to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). The latest request comes following the partial release of an ongoing internal audit on allegations that manual reductions of some employer’s BWC rates and assessments were done after complaining to their state legislators about the high premiums they were paying. Senator Dann, also sent a letter to the U.S. Attorney requesting an investigation to begin looking into these allegations.

“The audit released yesterday raises more questions, than it answers,” said Senator Dann. “I have given the BWC another public records request, which is narrower in focus, and I have asked the documents be released to my office today. After reviewing the audit, I also think it is crucial to have an outside investigation from the U.S. Attorney to determine if political influence was used to help lower some employers rates, while other businesses were forced to pay higher premiums.”

Robin Weirauch for Congress: National Attention!

This is from the Washington Post’s political blog yesterday:

"Things are so bad, according to reports from the state, that Paul Gillmor, a nine-term incumbent whose northwest district is strongly Republican and who isn’t considered the least bit vulnerable, has begun running attack ads against his opponent."

The 5th District race, mentioned by a national newspaper! We must be doing something right! Although the race isn’t considered to be a contest by Washington standard, we know our district is ready for change.

But, with 5 days to go, we can’t let up. We still need volunteers to help us knock on doors and make sure our supporters get out to vote on election day!

Here’s the schedule for the last days:

Get out the Vote Shifts:
Saturday 10:00 am -- 2:00 pm
Saturday 1:00 pm -- 5 pm

Sunday 11:00 am -- 3:00 pm
Sunday 3:00 pm -- 8:00 pm

Monday 9:00 am -- 1:00 pm
Monday 1:00 pm -- 5:00 pm
Monday 5:00 pm -- 9:00 pm

Tuesday A.M Lit Drop 5 am -- 8 am
Tuesday 8 am -- 12:00 noon
Tuesday 12:00 -- 4:00 pm
Tuesday 4:00 pm -- 7:30 pm

Volunteer a few hours of your time to show Gillmor and the nation that we want change!

Or, if you’d like to help with a contribution, click here.

Thanks again for all you do, we’re almost there!

The Robin Weirauch for Congress team

Candidate Zack Space to Campaign with Gubernatorial Candidate Ted Strickland Tomorrow

NEW PHILADELPHIA - Congressional Candidate Zack Space and Gubernatorial Candidate Ted Strickland will meet with voters on Friday, November 3, 2006 in Holmes, Coshocton, Tuscarawas, Carroll and Harrison counties.

Who: Zack Space - Congressional Candidate -- (OH-18) and Rep. Ted Strickland -- Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate
When: Friday, November 3, 2006
Where: Holmes County -- 11:30 a.m.
Westfork Community and Senior Center
191 Parkview Drive.
Millersburg, OH 44654

Coshocton County -- 1 p.m.
Civic Hall
331 Main Street
Coshocton, OH 43812

Tuscarawas County - 3 p.m.
VFW
West 4th Street
Dover, Ohio 44622

Carroll County - 4:15 p.m.
Courthouse Square
119 S Lisbon Street
Carrollton, OH 44615

Harrison County -- 5:30 p.m.
Harrison County Courthouse
100 West Market Street
Cadiz, OH 43907

MANSFIELD, BOWLING GREEN NEWSPAPERS BACK CORDRAY

Columbus -- Noting that Franklin County Treasurer Richard Cordray “has the chops the get it done,” the Mansfield News-Journal endorsed Cordray for state treasurer earlier this week.

The editorial stated that Cordray’s record as Franklin County treasurer clinched their endorsement: “record-breaking tax collection, a public portfolio that outpaced the market by half, education programs that teach citizens how to manage money, foreclosure prevention and intervention that helps connect individuals in danger of losing homes with resources that can improve their lives, and a county land bank program that resolves tax and title issues on properties and makes blighted property available for redevelopment.

“Cordray has put his liberal education, logical analysis and drive to make a difference to the task of solving problems, protecting the public purse and exhancing the common good.

“In short, he grasps a state treasurer can do much more to serve taxpayers than invest safely. That’s the kind of candidate we are eager to get behind.”

The Bowling Green Daily Sentinel-Tribune also recently endorsed Cordray, writing that he is the logical choice for state treasurer.

“Richard Cordray has distinguished himself as treasurer of the rapidly-growing Franklin County, leading that county to achieving the highest bond rating in the state while collecting more than $55 million in delinquent taxes in four years.

“His office’s investment portfolio outperformed the market by 154 percent. And he created a program to help low-income elderly residents remain in their homes.”

Read the full endorsements.

One down, one to go: Support Robin Weirauch for Congress!

One down, one to go.

Thanks to your hard work, Mary Jo Kilroy has Republican leader Deborah Pryce on the run.

Well, we have another Republican leader in Ohio and we need your help to go after him, too.

Deputy Majority Whip Paul Gillmor is a 30-year career politician. Paul Gillmor is so out of touch that he doesn’t even live in the Fifth District in Northwest Ohio - he lives in a $500,000 mansion in the Columbus suburb of Dublin, a part of Deborah Pryce’s district!

Robin Weirauch is the Democratic candidate for Congress in the Fifth District. Robin has dedicated her life to serving the communities of the Fifth District. She’s worked as an economic development director, founded the Humane Society of Henry County, and served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in Ohio.

Based on a recent poll, Robin is just 8 points behind Gillmor and independents are breaking Robin’s way. With your help, we can close the gap and take out another Republican Congressional leader from Ohio.

Please help Robin take out another Republican Congressional leader from Ohio.

Paul Gillmor is a big part of what’s wrong in Washington. The Toledo Blade said Gillmor was “largely an absentee congressman...(we see) no leadership from a congressman who after nine terms in Washington ought to be showing some.”

From working with Mark Foley on sex offender legislation to voting against troop bonuses and military healthcare, he’s just out of touch with Ohio’s values.

Robin Weirauch will truly represent the citizens of Ohio’s 5th district. The Toledo Blade wrote, “She is working hard on her campaign, and she vows to be a much more visible congressman than Mr. Gillmor. We believe she would be an effective member of Congress for the 5th congressional district.”

Please donate $100, $75, $50, or whatever you can afford to help Robin today!

Thank you for your support,
Todd Hoffman
Online Communications Director
The Ohio Democratic Party

VETERANS’ LEADER ENDORSES CORDRAY

Columbus -- Max Cleland, former head of the Veterans’ Administration, a U.S. Senator, and a captain in the U.S. Army, today endorsed Richard Cordray for Ohio Treasurer.

The 64-year-old Georgia native, who is traveling this week with Democratic Gubernatorial nominee Ted Strickland, said candidates like Cordray are one of the reasons Democrats will have a strong showing in Ohio this fall.

“Richard Cordray has demonstrated his integrity and professionalism as a local officeholder,” Cleland said. “His leadership style is pragmatic and idealistic. He has shown a willingness to sit down and figure out the aspects of government that strike some people as too complicated or tedious.

“What Rich Cordray understands is, at the bottom of every boring bureaucratic problem are real people who are struggling. I am impressed with his determination to make government relevant and useful to the everyday lives of our citizens.”

Cordray said: “If anyone understands service to his fellow citizen, it is Max Cleland. Like so many others, I have long looked to his leadership as an example. Today, I am greatly honored to have his support.”

Cleland also served as a State Senator and Secretary of State in Georgia.

Petro condemns attack ads against Attorneys

Columbus -- Today during a press gaggle, Attorney General Jim Petro condemned candidates who use attack ads in which attorneys are cast in a bad light for clients they have represented. Petro joins the Ohio State Bar Association, Republican Judge R. Scott Krichbaum and others in condemning candidates who use these negative attacks on attorneys.

When asked about the negative ads being used, Petro said, “I think the Bar Association properly points out that lawyers don’t always get to choose their client. I mean, there are times in my career- 33 years now as of...but there are times when the courts basically said to me ‘look, we want you to defend this guy. He’s a bad guy, but somebody needs to defend him’. What a lawyer does in defense of a client should not become a negative issue in a political campaign.”

SPACE: VETERANS MUST BE A TOP PRIORITY IN CONGRESS

Longtime Veterans Advocate Steny Hoyer and Iraq War Veteran John Boccieri Join Space in Town Hall Meeting at Zanesville VFW

ZANESVILLE -- In an effort to share with local veterans how critical next Tuesday’s elections are for the future of veterans legislation, Congressional Candidate Zack Space, long-time veterans advocate Congressman Steny Hoyer, and State Representative and Iraq War veteran John Boccieri met with local veterans at the Zanesville VFW today.

State Representative and Air Force Reserve C-130 pilot John Boccieri said, “Ohio ranks 48th in terms of money that comes back to our veterans -- especially those that are disabled. Zack Space will be a strong voice in Congress who will work to ensure that that those who have served and who are currently serving have all the resources they need from a very a grateful country.”

Space said that making veterans health care affordable and accessible would be a top priority. He also told veterans that, if elected, he would join congressional efforts to make veterans health care mandatory and index veterans health care to the cost-of-living index. Currently, veterans health care funding is discretionary and is therefore subject to potential budget cuts.

“Our veterans built the foundation of America’s freedom -- they have been willing to sacrifice so much to preserve our values and our way of life. Without question, we have a moral obligation to make sure they receive the health care and benefits they earned while serving our country,” said Zack Space.

“Zack Space has a long history of serving his community and he will continue to do so in Washington. Veterans of the 18th district need leadership like Zack Space in Congress because he will be a strong advocate for Veterans and their families,” said Congressman Steny Hoyer.

Space also promised to join efforts to eliminate the unfair veterans tax. Currently, for every dollar given in tax-free VA compensation for disability or injury that was combat-related or service connected, a dollar in retirement pay is deducted.

Faith Community Joins Hearts & Hands to Support Raising Ohio’s Minimum Wage

Columbus, Ohio -- A coalition of faith-based organizations will be holding a “spirit-filled gathering” for values voters on Thursday night at 7:00 p.m. The event will include those supporting State Issue 2, an amendment to raise the minimum wage and lift many hard-working Ohioans out of poverty.

What: A Spirit-Filled Gathering for Value Voters
When: Thursday, November 1, 2006, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Broad Street Presbyterian Church, 760 E. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio

The event is being hosted by Sojourners/Call to Renewal, Let Justice Roll, We Believe Ohio, Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good. Speakers will include the National Coordinator of Let Justice Roll, Rev. Paul Sherry of Cleveland, Ohio; Rev. Charles Lockett of Columbus, who will address the importance of State Issue 2 and raising Ohio’s minimum wage; and Jim Wallis of Sojourners/Call to Renewal; and Rich Nathan of Vineyard Church.

For more information, please contact:
Katy Heins, Let Justice Roll
513.314.0074 or letjusticerollohio@yahoo.com

Keary McCarthy, Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage
614.425.9163 or keary@vp-cd.com

Let Justice Roll, a fast-growing nonpartisan partnership of more than 80 faith and community groups, played a leading role in getting the proposal to increase the minimum in Ohio on the ballot this year. In addition to Ohio, Let Justice Roll is currently working to pass minimum wage ballot measures in Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, and Montana.

Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage is a coalition of faith-based, civil rights, labor and community organizations formed to pass State Issue 2, the Ohio Fair Minimum Wage Amendment. The Campaign is Co-Chaired by State Senator CJ Prentiss, Tim Burga of the Ohio AFL-CIO, and Katy Gall of the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now.

U.S. SENATOR BARACK OBAMA TO CAMPAIGN WITH SHERROD BROWN

WHAT: Rally with Senator Barack Obama, Sherrod Brown and other democratic candidates.
WHERE: The Civic, 3130 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights
WHEN: 8:00 PM, Saturday November 4th

Voter Education and Outreach

Dear Friends,

Please join me on Sunday November 5th for the annual Voter Education & Outreach Rally. We will be joined by Ted Strickland, Sherrod Brown, Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs-Jones and the statewide ticket.

Stand with us on November 5th as we support our candidates and proclaim that no one will take away our votes or our voices.

Voter Education & Outreach Rally
Sunday, November 5th 2006
5:00pm -7:00pm
Living Faith Apostolic Church
2177 Mock Road ~ Columbus, Ohio 43219

Click here to RSVP.

Sincerely,
Representative Joyce Beatty
Ohio House Minority Leader

Bush Stands by His Man

If you Like the Bush Record of Lost Jobs and the Iraq War, You’ll Love Mike DeWine

AMHERST -- In a recent interview with WTVO9 News in Steubenville, Ohio, President George W. Bush again indicated that a vote for incumbent Republican Senator Mike DeWine is a vote to support the administration’s failed record of massive job losses and a war in Iraq with no end in sight.

“It’s no surprise that George Bush is campaigning for Senator DeWine, since he needs him to keep rubberstamping the same policies that have led to massive job losses in Ohio, a war in Iraq with no end in sight, and massive giveaways to oil and drug companies while costs for families skyrocket.” said Brown Communications Director Joanna Kuebler. “Unfortunately for him, Ohioans who want a change of direction in Iraq and policies that will help create jobs here at home will be voting for Sherrod Brown on Tuesday.”

“I think DeWine would be the right man for the U.S. Senate, that’s for sure,” Bush said in the interview.

See it for yourself.

Judge White Denies Election Directives to County Boards of Elections

Columbus -- Judge Angela P. White of the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas ended her 7 week hiatus and issued an order that denied the efforts of the Ohio Democratic Party to force Blackwell to do his job and issue critical election directives. Her action leaves all 88 county boards of elections with no standards for three critical areas of election administration.

“I am disappointed that it took so long for Judge White to issue her order on this case. When we filed the case, we urged her to expedite the handling of the matter and apparently a two month delay is her idea of expedition. Her procrastination leaves us with no hope to achieve any relief before the election,” said Chris Redfern, Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party.

“It is disgraceful that Judge White has sat on these important issues for so long. If she can’t rule on this crucial case in a timely manner, what makes voters in Franklin County believe that she is fit to stand for election as judge this year?”

The lawsuit, filed on September 6, asked the court to order Secretary of State Blackwell to issue directives to county boards of elections to:

-- Set a consistent policy on election machine security, before, during and after Election Day;
-- Issue directives and protocols on the handling of voting machines when they break down; and
-- Issue directives on how to handle long lines at polling locations

“To help eliminate confusion and avoid long lines, voters should take advantage of early voting at their county Board of Elections. Their votes will count just the same as if they vote on Election Day,” said Redfern.

Redfern noted that it is particularly important for voters to cast their ballots for Jennifer Brunner for Secretary of State. “Brunner’s election will ensure that Ohio’s boards of elections will have the kind of control and direction they need to guarantee that voting is done fairly, freely and accurately.”

Elections Commission Finds Probable Cause in Complaint that Taylor Lied

COLUMBUS -- A panel of the Ohio Elections Commission today unanimously found probable cause that Mary Taylor, Republican candidate for state auditor, made false statements to voters about owning a construction firm, Welty Building Company. Her Hearing in front of the full Commission is on Monday.

Democratic Party Chair Chris Redfern filed the complaint with the Ohio Elections Commission after Welty’s lawyer claimed that Mary Taylor “owns no interest in her husband’s business, and has not since December 31, 2004.” The letter from Welty’s lawyer was surprising given that Mary Taylor claimed on her website that “Taylor and her husband Don own and operate a construction management firm in the Akron area.” An additional press release quotes her as saying she is a “small business owner.” (4/6/06)

In response to this and the many other ethical lapses by Mary Taylor, the Ohio Democratic Party launched a website, http://www.somethingaboutmarytaylor.com/ exposing her misdeeds.

The statement of ownership, and then Welty Building Company’s disavowal of her ownership in the company, leads to larger questions of her honesty on the campaign trail and as state representative.

“Mary Taylor just can’t be trusted. Her loose ethical conduct is not something that Ohioans want in a state auditor and she should be ashamed by her campaign tactics,” said Redfern.

The complaint comes as Mary Taylor has struggled to explain her role in Letter-gate. She wrote and distributed a letter on official House stationary to Republican lawmakers, and cc’d to donors, noting that ‘several of the Ohio Republican Party’s biggest supporters’ supported restoring funding to University of Akron’s Global Business Program. It was later revealed that Welty Building Company was in line to receive a $331,000 contract to manage the construction of the Global Business Institute building.

Questions still need to be answered about whether or not Mary Taylor has violated Ohio Revised Code Section 2921.42, a fourth degree felony.

§ 2921.42. Having an unlawful interest in a public contract

(A) No public official shall knowingly do any of the following:

(1) Authorize, or employ the authority or influence of his office to secure authorization of any public contract in which he, a member of his family, or any of his business associates has an interest.

Montgomery ad named one of the worst by Dispatch columnist

Columbus -- Today Columbus Dispatch columnist Ann Fisher named Betty Montgomery’s attack ad on Attorney General candidate Marc Dann one of the “worst of the worst ads from print, radio and television.”

Today’s article entitled the “5 worst ads reach new low in politics,” highlights an attack ad in which Montgomery calls Dann a hypocrite for representing a client. Fisher reminds readers that Montgomery once called these types of ads the “worst type of gutter politics.” Fisher goes on to say that in 1994 Montgomery complained about an ad, which “hammered Montgomery the challenger, because, as Wood County prosecutor, she had negotiated pleas with more than 30 rapists and child molesters.”

Along with columnist Fisher, Republican Judge R. Scott Krichbaum, the presiding judge during the case called into question by Montgomery’s attack ad, told the Youngstown Vindicator, “Attack ads on people who represent criminal defendants are done in poor taste and misrepresent what the justice system is all about.” In the article, Judge Krichbaum went on to say, “When a campaign tries to degenerate an attorney for a duty performed, it should be frowned upon. It’s not what the system is about. Criminal defense attorneys stand up for the constitutional rights of individuals.”

Also this week, the Ohio State Bar Association, according to the Columbus Dispatch, “called on political candidates to refrain from attacking lawyers for taking on unpopular cases or clients. The association noted that the American judicial system guarantees legal representation.”

PUBLIC SCHEDULE FOR SHERROD BROWN

Additional events may be added.

Saturday November 4
WHAT: Rally with Sherrod Brown, Ted Strickland, other democratic candidates and prosecutors.
WHERE: AFL-CIO Hall, 4127 E. 2nd Street, Dayton
WHEN: 11:45AM

WHAT: Rally with Sherrod Brown
WHERE: Auglaize County HQ, 9 Perry St., Wapakoneta
WHEN: 2:05PM

WHAT: Sherrod Brown is keynote speaker at the Toledo Area AFL-CIO Central Labor Council 37th Annual Dinner
WHERE: Seagate Convention Centre, 410 Jefferson Avenue, Toledo
WHEN: 6:15PM

WHAT: Rally with Senator Barack Obama, Sherrod Brown and other democratic candidates.
WHERE: The Civic, 3130 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights
WHEN: Saturday November 4th

Lewis Katz Commits to Make Schedule Available Online: Steve LaTourette Refuses

With nothing to hide, Lewis Katz agrees to put official daily schedule on website

Lewis Katz is earning praise today for agreeing to place his official schedule on the Internet as a member of the next Congress.

Grassroots activists in the district have asked Lewis Katz to sign an agreement to make his schedule in Congress available to the public on the Internet, as part of the Punch Clock Campaign. The Punch Clock Campaign is sponsored by the Sunlight Network, a Washington-based group dedicated to more open government.

“Lewis Katz is a national leader in openness and accountability,” said Zephyr Teachout, National Director for the Sunlight Network. “By opening his schedule to the public, Lewis Katz is showing that he is willing to use transparency to strengthen democracy. More importantly, Lewis Katz recognizes that when the public knows what their representative does all day, they can hold their representative accountable to them.”

Steve LaTourette has ignored offers to sign the same agreement.

The agreement Lewis Katz agreed to sign reads: I believe citizens have a right to know what their Member of Congress does every day. Starting with the next Congress, I promise to publish my daily official work schedule on the Internet, within 24 hours of the end of every work day. I will include all matters relating to my role as a Member of Congress. I will include all meetings with constituents, other Members, and lobbyists, listed by name. (In rare cases I will withhold the names of constituents whose privacy must be protected.) I will also include all fundraising events. Events will be listed whether Congress is in session or not, and whether I am in Washington, traveling, or in my district.

Sunlight is asking Members of Congress and FEC qualified challengers to sign an agreement to post their Congressional schedules. Sunlight is offering a good will bounty to anyone who gets a Member of Congress or a challenger to sign the agreement -- $1,000 for the signature obtained by each Member of Congress’ signature, and $250 for all other FEC qualified candidates. All those who are interested in joining the Sunlight Network’s efforts should visit www.punchclockcampaign.org and download a copy of the agreement to present to those running for Congress in their districts.

So far, over fifty candidates for Congress, nationwide, have signed the agreement, and have committed to making their official schedules available to the public on their websites as members of the next Congress.

The Sunlight Network, a 501 c(4), was founded in 2006 to foster a more positive relationship between lawmakers and their constituents, using technology, transparency, and local communities.

SHERROD BROWN CAMPAIGN RELEASES NEW AD

AMHERST -- Once again proving that his campaign is about the issues that matter to middle class Ohio families, U.S. Congressman Sherrod Brown (D-OH) today released a television ad titled “Where I Stand” that explains his stance on issues like the minimum wage, trade policy, stem cell research, immigration, and balancing the budget.

“This campaign has always been about fighting for middle class families and talking honestly about the issues that matter to people in Ohio,” said Brown Communications Director Joanna Kuebler. “Sherrod Brown understands that voters need to know where he stands on the issues that matter to middle class families before he can earn their votes, and that they deserve better than the frustrating and misleading attack ads flooding the airways each night.”

Click here to see the script for “Where I Stand.”

Frances Strickland: Thank You For All That You Do

This has been a wonderful campaign -- everywhere we go, we’re met by great supporters who are working day in and day out to see Ted become the next governor of Ohio.

I’ve recorded a short message just so I could personally thank you.

What you have done so far has been nothing short of amazing…and what you will do in the next six days will be crucial to our campaign. Ted and I thank you, our staff thanks you, and on November 7th, we will make sure that Ted Strickland is Ohio’s next governor!

Yours truly,

Frances Strickland

Mark Dansack Stands for Change in Ohio, Mark Wagoner protects the status quo.

Beginning October 31, Mark Dansack will be recapping the reasons why residents of District 46 will be better served by electing him as a voice for positive change in Ohio rather than his opponent, who embraces the present “pay to play” dynamics now running rampant in Columbus.

Reason #2, Taxes

This one is easy. Taxes. Mark Wagoner supported House Bill 66, signed into law by our ever popular governor, Bob Taft, which actually increased the level of taxation on middle class taxpayers in Ohio. In fact, depending on which statistics are utilized, Ohioans now bear either the second or third highest tax burden in our nation after 16 years of Republican Party (read: one-party) rule.

As part of this act, the state sales tax was permanently increased from 5.0 % to 5.5 % and a new tax was created on businesses in Ohio, the Commercial Activities Tax (CAT). This measure represents a tax on the gross receipts of a business, including your local grocer.

The net effect of this CAT is that Ohioans are paying a tax on their groceries for the first time since the Great Depression. This tax (which you won’t see on the price tags) , along with the permanent increase in the sales tax, represents a regressive tax that hits lower and middle income taxpayers the hardest as they spend a greater percentage of their take home pay on these consumer goods than do the very wealthy. How’s that for progress from these so-called fiscal conservatives who have been running our state (into the ground)?

“I am on record for looking for ways to reduce property taxes in Ohio with regard to funding of our public schools in Ohio. I also advocate better oversight of state agencies to eliminate what I call the “corruption tax” we have seen in Ohio. By eliminating the waste and abuse of taxpayer dollars such as we have seen in the Bureau of Workers Compensation and eliminating expensive corporate tax breaks, we can free up funds to funnel towards pre-K, primary, secondary, and higher education in Ohio and make education the priority which it hasn’t been under the past few administrations. I also advocate the repeal of the CAT in Ohio as its provisions unnecessarily hamper business in Ohio, particularly small businesses which are the job incubators of the future”.

“My opponent: Satisfied with the “business as usual approach” in state government, lacking the leadership to propose solutions or alternatives for fear of losing a vote or two”.

“My opponent has been very vocal about taxes in this election, but he simply hasn’t been telling the truth. His tax relief helps the very wealthy at the expense of the middle class and I’ll lead the fight for ordinary hard working men and women in District 46 who are sick of special interest groups reaping the rewards of a corrupt, ineffective state government”.

Michael J Fox Stumps for Brown

One of the clearest differences between Mike DeWine and Sherrod Brown is on the issue of stem cell research.

Sherrod Brown is on the side of doctors, patients, and families who believe we must lift federal restrictions on potentially life-saving stem cell research.

Mike DeWine is on the side of a small minority of right-wing conservatives, who would deny a possible cure to millions of Americans who suffer major medical conditions.

Actor and medical research advocate Michael J. Fox joined patients, doctors, and supporters in Columbus on Monday to call for federal funding of stem cell research and to show their support for Sherrod’s campaign for the U.S. Senate.

Click here to watch video highlights from Monday’s event.

There’s less than one week until Election Day. Please consider making a final contribution before November 7.

The stakes in this race are high as evidenced by Michael J. Fox’s appearance.

Your support can still make a difference as we sprint towards the finish line.

Click here to support progress.

Thank you for all that you do.

Sincerely,

Friends of Sherrod Brown

GOTV: Paint Ohio Blue!

Dear Friend,

With seven days left, the Ohio Democratic Party’s GOTV (Get Out The Vote) program is in full swing. As you know, the polling numbers look fantastic, our base is energized and we have the momentum. But success brings with it a new set of challenges and if we don’t finish strong, we will lose everything we’ve worked so hard for.

In the past week, voters across Ohio have embraced our Democratic candidates, even in unlikely places like the 2nd Congressional District. Ohioans are tired of “Mean” Jean Schmidt and have embraced our Democratic Candidate, Dr. Vic Wulsin. The same situation is playing out in the First Congressional District with our own John Cranley running even or ahead of Congressman Steve Chabot. In fact, the Cincinnati Enquirer just endorsed John Cranley. Vic and John have run fantastic races and have positioned themselves to win.

As the Coordinated Campaign Director for the Ohio Democratic Party, it’s my job to make sure we get as many people to polls to vote for these great candidates as we can. With Vic and John poised to win, the Ohio Democratic Party needs to find an additional $20,000 to fund an expanded GOTV program in the 1st and 2nd Congressional districts. If we win these two traditionally Republican Congressional seats, we can change the face of Ohio and the nation. That’s why I need your help to fund an expanded GOTV program in Cincinnati. Will you make a contribution of $100, $50, $25 or whatever you can afford today?

Click here to contribute.

To build a lasting Democratic majority in Congress, we need to support great candidates like Vic Wulsin and John Cranley. It’s really the perfect storm. With amazing candidates, a growing call for change, and a disillusioned Republican base, we can win these seats if we have the financial resources to combat Karl Rove’s election-day plan.

Can you stomach a Republican controlled Congress for two more years? Are you ready for more out of control spending, hate filled legislation and corrupt politicians? Or do you want honest and effective government? It’s time we sent Democrats to Washington who will stand up to George W. Bush and Donald Rumsfeld.

With just seven days left, I am finalizing my election-day plans and I need your support to make sure I give our congressional candidates every opportunity to win. Will you help send Dr. Vic Wulsin and John Cranley to Congress by making a contribution of $100, $50, $25 or whatever you can afford today?

Click here to contribute to our GOTV efforts.

Thanks for all that you do for Democrats.

Regards,

Wiley Pearson

Coordinated Campaign Director

Ohio Democratic Party

P.S. Please click here to sign up to volunteer on election day, we need your time and financial support!!!

Marian Harris for 19th HD

I can’t afford tv but this is the next best thing! Please forward to everyone you know in the 19th HD. That’s Westerville, New Albany, Jefferson Township, Reynoldsburg, Canal Winchester, Groveport, Madison Township, Obetz and parts of Columbus bordering these communities.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17gX2sFeWcM

WULSIN AND CRANLEY TO SPEAK OUT AGAINST NUCLEAR WASTE DUMP

Chabot-Schmidt proposals would fast-track nuclear dump in Ohio

Cincinnati, OH -- At an 11:00 AM press conference today at the Hamilton County Democratic Party Headquarters, Democratic congressional candidates John Cranley and Dr. Victoria Wulsin will challenge proposals offered by Republicans Steve Chabot and Jean Schmidt that threaten Ohio neighborhoods. The Republican initiatives when paired together, would give energy companies unprecedented leverage to ship radioactive materials on Ohio highways and locate nuclear waste facilities in the towns and communities of southern Ohio.

WHO: Democratic Congressional Candidates John Cranley and Dr. Vic Wulsin
WHAT: Press conference to Challenge Chabot-Schmidt Initiatives that Threaten Ohio Communties
WHEN: 11:00 AM, Wednesday, November 1
WHERE: Hamilton County Democratic Party Headquarters
6109 Webbland Place, Cincinnati

Chabot introduced legislation recently that would take power away from local elected officials and zoning boards to make decisions about how their communities are developed, and put it in the hands of the federal courts. This sweet-heart deal for wealthy developers encourages lawsuits against local communities and discourages valuable community protections.

The potential dangers of this type of radical legislation were crystallized on Monday when the Cincinnati Enquirer reported that Schmidt is supporting an effort to store nuclear waste shipments from around the world at the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in southern Ohio. Such a plan would not only bring nuclear waste to Portsmouth, but would put the radioactive material on roads, bridges and highways across Ohio threatening the health and safety of communities. With the broad leverage given by the Chabot bill to developers, this kind of radioactive dump could be put on the fast and easy track for placement in any town in Ohio.

GLENN SPOT FOR CORDRAY AIRING STATEWIDE

Columbus -- Campaign ads featuring former U.S. Senator John Glenn encouraging voters to support Richard Cordray for state treasurer began airing statewide today.

The ads are expected to run through November 7.

To view the spot, go to the “Cordray for Treasurer Channel” on YouTube.

Support Keeps Pouring In

In addition to the overwhelming support Ted has drawn from every corner of the state, his plan to Turnaround Ohio has also been drawing rave reviews from editorial boards across the state. Some examples below:

Akron Beacon Journal, 10/22:

“The Strickland candidacy represents much more than an overdue break from the faltering Republican rule. He appears eager to tackle large problems... he understands what the state must do to move forward.”

Athens Messenger, 10/22:

“We find Democratic candidate Ted Strickland’s candor and integrity to be the perfect medicine following two terms of Bob Taft’s inept and unethical administration... Ted is our choice for Ohio governor.”

Canton Repository, 10/15:

“This is a time when Ohioans need to be invited toward a moderate middle place where the extremes don’t dominate debate and serious people of good will can solve the state’s education, economic and social problems. Strickland is the leader for this effort.”

Chillicothe Gazette, 10/29:

“Ultimately, Strickland better understands the needs of all Ohioans. He’s been involved in many issues -- from the Piketon uranium enrichment plant to the state’s school funding woes to health care ... Ohioans -- particularly those in the Scioto Valley -- will be best served with Strickland as their next governor.”

Cincinnati Post, 10/25:

“The governor’s race is the most important one on the Nov. 7 ballot in Ohio... It should be about experience, qualifications and vision. On this basis, we believe, Strickland is the better choice.”

Cleveland Plain Dealer, 10/8:

“The question before Ohioans is, which candidate for Governor is best equipped to carry the state forward without dropping it. The only answer, then, is Ted Strickland.”

Columbus Dispatch, 10/8:

“Ohio’s future will be built one brick at a time and will require all hands. Strickland is best equipped to lead the state forward.”

Dayton Daily News, 10/29:

“Democrat Ted Strickland deserves to be governor not just because he’s been the better gentleman, but also because he’s right about what that job needs to be.”

Dover-New Philadlephia Times-Reporter, 10/15:

“We believe Strickland also offers the best hope for a cure for a dysfunctional statehouse that has been awash in partisanship. He offers a new beginning for a discouraged Ohio. And Lord knows we need a new beginning.”

Elyria Chronicle Telegram, 10/22:

“[Strickland] seems to have a firm grasp on Ohio’s big issues, namely the economy, education and health care, and is sincere in his desire to lead the state somewhere better.”

Fremont News-Messenger, 10/19:

“Strickland speaks with the most passion about [school funding], reconnecting with his rural roots to talk about the stark disparities between suburban and rural districts. He convincingly pledged to work until a solution can be achieved -- going so far as to say that if elected, that his tenure would be a failure if this perplexing issue hasn’t been settled by the end of a first term. That is a far cry from the Republicans, who squandered countless chances to make a difference.”

Lorain Morning Journal, 10/22:

“Strickland may be a minister, a psychologist and a nice guy, but he’s no pushover like Bob Taft. Strickland will push back, hard, if needed[.]”

Newark Advocate, 10/8:

“We need a governor who judges issues on their own merits, not his own political agenda. We need a leader who can work with both parties and all political perspectives. There’s only one man who meets those tests. We endorse Strickland.”

Toledo Blade, 10/8:

“Ohio deserves better, and we believe, with great respect for the wisdom of the electorate, that our state is ready to make a change, and that it has a worthy governor-in-waiting in Ted Strickland.”

Vinton County Courier, 10/25:

“We’re ready for a leader who isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and work side-by-side with us to restore the Buckeye State to a place of innovation and prosperity. We believe that leader is Ted Strickland.”

Ted Strickland will soon begin the hard work of turning Ohio around, but without your support, dedication and hard work, none of this would have been possible. Thank you for all that you’ve done, and all that you continue to do.

Zack Space Tells Radio Listeners: “It’s Time for Change”

NEW PHILADELPHIA -- In a WJER town meeting, questions were raised about why Padgett’s own union, the Ohio Education Association failed to endorse her; Space again challenges Padgett to sign his ethics pledge.

Today, Congressional Candidate Zack Space reasserted to the voters that he would be the agent of change in the 18th Congressional Race dedicated to restoring a people-focused agenda in Congress if he is elected on November 7th. During the hour-long debate on WJER-AM, Space told listeners, “Washington is broken and in need of new leadership.”

According to Space, “I have two kids, and I’m worried about their future because our country is headed in the wrong direction. Our government doesn’t seem inclined to work for us anymore, and we need to change the way business is done in Washington.”

“I believe our government should do the same thing we expect from our own families. This means balance our checkbook, establish pay-as-you-go standards that require us not to spend more money than we have coming in, and bring transparency to the earmarking process to eliminate wasteful spending. Our government must be more concerned with fiscal responsibility,” he said.

The forum, which featured calls from listeners, raised questions about why Padgett -- a 20-year educator, the current chair of the Ohio Senate Education committee, and member of the teachers’ union -- would fail to receive the endorsement of the Ohio Education Association and the National Education Association.

Space called Padgett’s casual dismissal of the endorsement an “afront to all those thousands competent hardworking teachers in the state of Ohio, and nationally who support this campaign because they understand that I get it when it comes to the need to prioritize educational funding.”

Space during the discussion, challenged Padgett to sign his ethics pledge to not accept gifts, trips, and meals from lobbyists and to put the people rather than special interests first in Congress. Padgett, again refused to sign the pledge.

During the forum, Space answered questions about how he would attract companies and jobs to the district, his plans to restore the ethical credibility of the Congress, and how he would ensure that the needs of the people of the 18th Congressional District are not undermined by the influence of congressional lobbyists.

According to Space, special interests have had too much interest in policymaking, “In the face of so much scandal, we need representation we can be proud of. I’m committed to bringing new priorities for working families to Congress.”

Ohio Democratic Party Files Election Complaint Alleging Taylor Lied on Campaign Trail

COLUMBUS-Democratic Party Chair Chris Redfern filed a complaint with the Ohio Elections Commission today alleging that Mary Taylor, Republican candidate for state auditor, purposely made false statement to voters about owning a construction business -- Welty Building Company. The Hearing in front of the Commission will be on Wednesday at 11:30 AM.

Seventeen press releases on Mary Taylor’s campaign website claim that “Taylor and her husband Don own and operate a construction management firm in the Akron area.” An additional press release quotes her as saying she is a “small business owner.” (4/6/06)

In a letter sent to the Ohio Democratic Party, Welty’s lawyer claimed that Mary Taylor ‘owns no interest in her husband’s business, and has not since December 31, 2004’.

The statement of ownership, and then Welty Building Company’s disavowal of her role in the company, leads to larger questions of her honesty on the campaign trail and as state representative.

“Mary Taylor is intentionally misleading voters about her qualifications and just can’t be trusted. Ohioans do not want more scandal and deceit and she should be ashamed by her campaign tactics,” said Redfern.

The complaint comes as Mary Taylor has struggled to explain her role in Letter-gate. She wrote and distributed a letter on official House stationary noting that ‘several of the Ohio Republican Party’s biggest supporters’ supported restoring funding to University of Akron’s Global Business Institute. It was later revealed that Welty Building Company was supposed to receive a $331,000 contract to build the Global Business Institute building.

The Ohio Democratic Party launched a website, somethingaboutmarytaylor.com detailing Taylor’s many ethical lapses.

Questions still need to be answered about whether or not Mary Taylor has violated the Ohio Revised Code Section 2921.42, a fourth degree felony.

§ 2921.42. Having an unlawful interest in a public contract
(A) No public official shall knowingly do any of the following:
(1) Authorize, or employ the authority or influence of his office to secure authorization of any public contract in which he, a member of his family, or any of his business associates has an interest;

Marian Harris: Countdown to Election Day!

A week from tomorrow! WOW! I want to share a radio interview I did for Sunny 95 -- it aired at 6:15 in the morning on Saturday so I doubt very many of you heard it.

But check it out and let me know what you think.

Most of my time is spent walking and talking -- thank you to the folks who have been and are continuing to do lit drops, phoning and mailings for me.

VOLUNTEER NEEDS:
Phone callers -- from your own home -- GOTV -- call folks and encourage them to get out and vote for Marian Harris and the whole Democratic ticket

Canvassers -- the same as above but walking and talking door to door.

Election Day -- hand out lit outside of polling places.

I know many of you are involved in other campaigns. I know the massive GOTV campaign that is being organized by the Coordinated Campaiagn. Unfortunately, there are not that many precincts in my District that are targeted by the Coordinated Campaign so we’re pretty much on our own. SO, PLEASE consider helping me -- we can pass other campaign lit along with mine.

Sign up with Misha at misha@marianforohio.com or with me marian@marianforohio.com and THANK YOU for all you’ve done and all you will do to restore balance to our Legislature.

*ATTENTION VETERANS*

Do you feel like Congress isn’t listening? It’s time to RAISE your VOICES and your CONCERNS

Veterans for Zack Space Forum

Zack Space, Congressional Candidate for Ohio’s 18th District and Representative Steny Hoyer, House Minority Whip will be meeting with local Veterans to discuss issues that are important to Veterans and their families.

BE HEARD
Who: Zack Space -- Congressional Candidate (OH-18)
Rep. Steny Hoyer -- House Minority Whip (D-MD)
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, November 1, 2006
Place: VFW Post 1058
1318 Putnam Avenue
Zanesville, Ohio 43701

Kilroy to Attend Halloween "Trick or Treat" Event

WHO:
Mary Jo Kilroy, Franklin County Commissioner and Democratic Candidate for Ohio's 15th Congressional District,

House Democratic Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-MD),

Ohioans for a Fair Minimum Wage

Alliance for Retired Americans

WHAT:
Kilroy and Hoyer will talk to Ohio voters about the economic challenges facing working and retired Americans. They will expose Deborah Pryce's "tricks" in Congress and discuss some of the "treats" Kilroy will bring to Central Ohio when elected to Congress this November.

WHEN:
Tuesday, October 31st, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

WHERE:
United Steelworkers of America Local 2173
1135 Cleveland Avenue
Columbus, Ohio

Only Rape Crisis Center in 14th District to Close; LaTourette Ignores Letter Pleading for Help

Willoughby -- Former prosecutor and now Congressman, Steve LaTourette and the "do nothing Congress" failed the people of Ohio. They have yet to fund the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA); therefore, the only rape crisis center in the 14th District is closing Wednesday, November 1.

In the Ashtabula Star Beacon, Heather McGinnis the executive director of Homesafe Rape Crisis Center reported that a total of nine rape crisis centers in Ohio are closing because they lost their grants. This eliminates the full-time employee who provides support to victims at a hospital emergency room. Also, the center provides a safe shelter and support system for victims of domestic violence.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) provides grants to these centers, but decided to shift the focus to rape prevention. As a result, the centers lost their grants and rape victims will suffer. LaTourette and Senator George Voinovich were sent letters regarding these cuts.

"The switch to prevention education must not come at the expense of helping people who are already victims," stated Lew Katz, Democratic candidate for the 14th Congressional District. "We must make certain that the rape crisis center serving the 14th District receives the necessary funding so that they can continue the essential services they provide to victims."

Cindy Vanallen, Director of the Victims of Crimes Assistance office, stated "it's a sad day for our victims of assault or rape…. My question is about the whole shift in funding. How do you tell an 80-year-old woman who has been raped, she should have taken prevention measures."

"As I promised the people of Astabula on Sunday, I will work to make sure that the funding is available," stated Katz.

Ohioans Endorse Sherrod Brown

The Sherrod Brown for Senate campaign announced the endorsement of voters across Ohio who are calling for new leadership in Congress. A new web feature at sherrodbrown.com allows average Ohioans to record messages outlining their reasons for supporting Sherrod Brown. On the site, farmers, veterans, parents, and others discuss Brown's support for middle class families, his plans to return jobs to Ohio, and his call for a winning exit strategy from Iraq.

The endorsements can be heard here.

Ohioans are encouraged to record their own endorsements here.

Excerpts from some of the audio endorsements are below:

Jack Underwood, Elyria OH (Lorain) "I feel absolutely indebted to Sherrod Brown and I feel that Sherrod Brown is the best person for the job because Sherrod Brown helps people. Without his help my son would have never received the funding that made his quality of life that much better. That's why I know that Sherrod Brown is the best candidate for Senator."

Nancy Barton, Loveland OH (Clermont) "I like Sherrod Brown and I'll be voting for Sherrod Brown because he's a strong advocate for the young people of Ohio in education and in helping make higher education a reality for our young people."

Jeff Leis, Springboro OH (Warren) "My feelings about Sherrod is that I consider him to be an honest individual who takes the time to study every piece of legislation before he makes a decision on how he's going to vote. I find that to be highly respectful and unusual in today's political environment."

Find Your Ten For Ted Today!

There are only eight days left until perhaps the most important election in Ohio's history.

We’ll be working on every front to get out the vote, from canvassing to phone banking. But there’s something you can do right now as you read this e-mail to get the word out about Ted Strickland – find your Ten for Ted.

All you have to do is click here, and you’ll be able to invite up to ten of your friends and family to find out about Ohio’s next governor, Ted Strickland.

Find your Ten for Ted today!

After you find ten people to vote for Ted, sign up to help get out the vote on Election Day!

Get out the vote November 7th!

In only eight days, Ohioans will choose new leadership for our great state. With your invaluable help, we can ensure that new leader will be Ted Strickland.

Judge Phelps-White Needs to Rule on “Blackwell Hasn’t Done His Job” Case

Columbus -- The Ohio Democratic Party calls on Judge Angela Phelps-White to end her procrastination and firmly rule against Ken Blackwell in a lawsuit claiming he neglected his duties as Secretary of State. Although pending for 7 weeks, Judge Angela Phelps-White has not ruled on a lawsuit that would force the Secretary of State’s office to issue critical election directives to all 88 county boards of elections on three critical areas of election administration.

The lawsuit, filed on September 6, asks the court to order Secretary of State Blackwell to issue directives to county boards of elections to:
-- Set a consistent policy on election machine security, before, during and after Election Day
-- Issue directives and protocols on the handling of voting machines when they break down
-- Issue directives on how to handle long lines at polling locations

“It is disgraceful that Judge Phelps-White has sat on these important issues for seven weeks. If she can’t rule on this crucial case in a timely manner, what makes Ohioans believe that she is fit to stand for election as judge this year?” said Chris Redfern, Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party.

On October 16, Judge Phelps-White ordered both sides to submit their final briefs by Friday, October 20, so that she could make a final ruling. Unfortunately, she still has yet to rule on the case and her inaction is causing confusion at county boards of elections as well as putting her credibility on the line.

According to the Columbus Dispatch on September 30, Judge Phelps-White stated that “time is of the essence" and also said she thinks it is "extremely possible" to decide the case before the election. The tardiness of her decision is especially galling considering the Voter ID case has moved on such an expedited schedule -- filed last Tuesday, trial court ruling last Thursday, and an appeals court ruling on Sunday.

SHERROD BROWN, MICHAEL J. FOX, RALLY FOR CURE

Cite the life-saving potential of embryonic stem cell research for millions

COLUMBUS, OH -- Sherrod Brown and famed actor Michael J. Fox today were joined by doctors, advocates, and affected patients for a rally calling for expanded federal funding of stem cell research. Brown, who was endorsed by the Doctors Organized for Health Care Solutions on Thursday, has worked to expand federal funding for embryonic stem cell research and the National Institutes of Health as the lead Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health. DeWine has taken an extreme position against embryonic stem cell research, and according to his website, “Senator DeWine will oppose any bill that would expand existing policy by allowing the government to pay for studies on embryos in frozen storage at fertility clinics, even if the couples who conceive them certify that they would otherwise discard them.”

“Stem cell research may lead to the most significant medical breakthroughs made possible by science today,” said U.S. Representative Brown. “We must empower scientists to pursue cures that could save millions of Americans without ever letting politics get in the way. Senator DeWine is out-of-the mainstream on stem cell research, opposing members of his own party like Senate Majority Leader Frist and First Lady Reagan.”

Michael J. Fox became a nationally recognized spokesman for expanded stem cell research when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. According to doctors, stem cell research has the promise to cure and treat Parkinson’s, diabetes, paralysis and down the road, diseases like Alzheimer’s. The scientific community recognizes stem cell research as having a unique potential to cure disease:

“Throughout my lifelong pursuit of better health for my patients, there has never been a more promising breakthrough than that of early stem cell research. While this technology is relatively new, the early results hold tremendous promise for relieving human suffering and finding cures for hundreds of thousands of our citizens who are afflicted by debilitating diseases for which we currently have no good answers.”
-- E. Grey Diamond, M.D., Provost, Health Sciences, Emeritus, University of Missouri and former president of the American College of Cardiology.

“We must not let ideology trump science,” added Brown. “We owe it to the families here today to give scientists every dollar they need to discover tomorrow’s cures.”

Voter Protection Hotline -- Help on Election Day!

Still waiting for the perfect job on Election Day?

Wait no more: You can help with the Voter Protection Hotline!

If you are a reliable worker who enjoys trouble shooting and has patience, we need you NOW.

The Ohio Democratic Party has set up a 1-888-DEM-VOTE hotline on Election Day November 7th to field calls from poll observers and the general public.

Volunteers are needed to work at the call center in 3 to 4 hour shifts throughout the day (6:00 am to 7:30 pm). Volunteers will field calls from all over Ohio and questions will cover everything from routine inquiries (where’s my voting location) to more sophisticated legal questions. We’ll provide training, reference materials, computer resources and legal experts to assist you. Currently, we expect the call center will be set up at the Seafarer’s Union Hall located at 2800 S. High Street in Columbus (just south of Route 104).

Training will be provided for all volunteers and will cover topics such as likely inquiries and how to route calls If you are willing and able to volunteer at the call center, please contact one of us using the information below. Thank you for your help with this effort. We look forward to working together to make this year’s election fair and efficient!!

Please forward this message to all your Democratic Friends.

Sincerely,

Mellissia Fuhrmann
fmellissia@hotmail.com
614-578-8978

Ed Leonard
ejleonard1@msn.com
614-397-6303

PRYCE IS WRONG: ON THE WAR IN IRAQ

KILROY CALLS FOR RUMSFELD’S RESIGNATION, CHALLENGES PRYCE TO DO THE SAME

COLUMBUS, OH -- Today, Mary Jo Kilroy, Franklin County commissioner and Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress from Ohio’s 15th Congressional District, challenged Deborah Pryce to call for Donald Rumsfeld’s resignation after 100 American troops have died in combat in Iraq this month.

“Rumsfeld should be removed from his post as Secretary of Defense. He has failed to provide adequate leadership in the Administration, failed to provide and execute a plan to end the war, and failed to provide a realistic assessment of what is going on in Iraq,” Kilroy said. “If Deborah Pryce truly feels the war was not well planned and it is not going well she should demand a change in course and a change in leadership. She should join me in calling for Rumsfeld’s resignation.”

Pryce admitted to the Wall Street Journal that she has never questioned the Bush Administration’s handling of the war, and thinks Rumsfeld is doing a good job.

“On Iraq, for example, Ms. Pryce says: ‘People know there’s no real answer. They don’t really ask about it unless they want to complain about it.’ On the future of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld she says: ‘He knows the intricacies of this war, it’s his war, why put somebody else in there to finish it up?’...About conversations with the White House, she says, ‘If I did see something glaringly wrong, I would not hesitate to bring it up.’ Yet when pressed, she admits: ‘I can’t say I have called them out on how they are conducting the war. No I haven’t.’” [ Wall Street Journal, “Ohio House Race is Brutal Test,” 8/31/06]

“If there is a difficult question to be asked in Washington, you can rest assured Deborah Pryce will not be asking it,” Kilroy said. “Pryce can not offer a realistic assessment of the war in Iraq, nor can she provide the leadership to hold the Bush Administration accountable for a plan to end the war in Iraq. If Pryce thinks the war was not well planned nor going well, but continues to support Rumsfeld and never asks the Bush Administration questions about how they planned and executed the war, she should not be in Congress.”

PUBLIC SCHEDULE FOR SHERROD BROWN

OCTOBER 31
WHAT: Rally with Sherrod Brown, Ted Strickland and other democratic candidates.
WHERE: Lawrence County Courthouse Steps, 1 Veteran’s Square, Ironton
WHEN: 9:15AM

WHAT: Rally with Sherrod Brown, Ted Strickland and other democratic candidates.
WHERE: Gallia County Courthouse Steps, 17 Locust Street, Gallipolis
WHEN: 10:45AM

WHAT: Rally with Sherrod Brown, Ted Strickland and other democratic candidates.
WHERE: Democratic Headquarters, E. Main Street and Broadway Street, Jackson
WHEN: 12:15PM

WHAT: Rally with Sherrod Brown, Ted Strickland and other democratic candidates.
WHERE: Ross County Courthouse, S. Paint and E. Main Streets, Chillicothe
WHEN: 1:45PM

The finish line is so close!

...But we need your help to get there!!

Let’s Get Out the Vote for ROBIN!

It is literally going to take help from every single supporter. If you’ve wanted to help Robin WIN , here’s your chance!

Next Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday (November 4, 5, 6, and 7th), we need volunteers to call folks, drop Robin’s literature, and go door-to-door. Sign up for a shift today!

Get out the Vote Shifts:
Saturday 10:00 am -- 2:00 pm
Saturday 1:00 pm -- 5 pm
Sunday 11:00 am -- 3:00 pm
Sunday 3:00 pm -- 8:00 pm
Monday 9:00 am -- 1:00 pm
Monday 1:00 pm -- 5:00 pm
Monday 5:00 pm -- 9:00 pm
Tuesday A.M Lit Drop 5 am -- 8 am
Tuesday 8 am -- 12:00 noon
Tuesday 12:00 -- 4:00 pm
Tuesday 4:00 pm -- 7:30 pm

MAILINGS
Thank you to all that helped last week with the mailer. We have a few mailers to go! So, we’re asking for in-kind contributions of $0.29 and $0.39 stamps! Just drop rolls of stamps by the headquarters (134 E Court St in Bowling Green) or call the office (419-842-4338) for more information.

Together, we can turn the 5th District BLUE!

Thanks for all you do,

--The Robin Weirauch for Congress Team

ID Controversy Highlights Need for Senator Dann’s Voter Integrity Division

State Senator Marc Dann, the Democratic nominee for Ohio Attorney General, said the controversy swirling around the new voter identification rules for absentee ballots highlights the need for the Voter Integrity Division he will create within the AG’s office when he is elected.

According to Senator Dann, he will form the new division in order to use the authority the General Assembly gave the attorney general under House Bill Three to independently investigate and prosecute violations of the state’s election laws.

The Election Integrity Division will:
-- Vigorously enforce existing laws and ensure that they are applied consistently and fairly across the state
-- Maintain a toll-free Voter Integrity Hotline and website to which violations of the law and other incidents may be reported
-- Monitor the conduct of elections throughout the state, including having attorneys on the ground in each of Ohio’s 88 counties during gubernatorial and presidential election years
-- Investigate all credible reports of violations, including intimidation and other suppression tactics,
-- Aggressively prosecute all violations
-- Provide training and support to local boards of elections and community groups
-- Draft legal opinions relative to proposed voting or registration-related legislation
-- Develop legislation and administrative rules that promote registration and voting

“Thousands of Ohioans may be disenfranchised because the Republican secretary of state and the Republican attorney general are once again playing politics with the right to vote,” Senator Dann said. “If we are going to have voter ID requirements, they should be enforced equally and equitably in every county. No one should lose their right to vote simply because they happen to live in a county where the rules are not being applied as they should be, as the evidence in this case suggests.”

Senator Dann said he is not focusing his criticism on the state’s 88 county boards of elections, but on the statewide officeholders, particularly Ken Blackwell and Jim Petro, who have repeatedly issued conflicting rulings and opinions and arbitrarily ordered procedural changes that breed confusion and jeopardize the integrity of the electoral process.

“House Bill Three, which created the voter ID requirements, was, with the exception of empowering the AG, a bad bill,” Senator Dann said. “But by failing to work with the local boards to ensure that it’s provisions were applied and enforced consistently and fairly whether a voter lives in Ashtabula or Cincinnati, Toledo or Marietta and everywhere in between, Blackwell and Petro have made it worse -- and they’ve done it for partisan reasons.”

Senator Dann said that the application of the new voter ID requirements is not the only serious issue that threatens to mar the impending election. “Today, thousands of absentee ballots are sitting in bags in the post office in Akron because they don’t have sufficient postage and one member of the BOE, Republican powerbroker Alex Arshincoff, won’t agree to hold a meeting so the Board can vote to pay the postage due, even though the County Execute has already authorized the expenditure,” Senator Dann said.

“Yet, in Cuyahoga and other counties, the boards are already paying the postage and accepting the ballots. That means thousands of voters in the Akron area may have their votes erased simply because they didn’t put enough postage on an envelope. That violates the intent of both the Voting Rights Act and the Help America Vote Act, but Alex Arshincoff, Ken Blackwell, and Jim Petro don’t care. They are willing to see those votes tossed in the trash because they believe doing so will help them hold on to power.

“I am putting Alex Arshincoff, Karl Rove, and anyone else who thinks they can violate the voting rights of the people of this state on notice: I will catch you and I will prosecute you.”

Senator Dann said that other provisions of H.B. 3 have already been changed or ruled illegal, including sections dealing with petition gathering, voter registration, and voter ID of naturalized citizens. “Ken Blackwell has a long record of attempting to interfere with and obstruct democracy even though his job is to do the exact opposite. From playing a leading role for George Bush in the 2000 Florida debacle, to, in the words of a federal judge, attempting to ‘accomplish the same result in Ohio in 2004 that occurred in Florida in 2000,’ to entertaining the ridiculous complaint regarding Ted Strickland’s residency, he has failed to uphold his responsibility to the people of this state.

“Thankfully, his time as our chief election officer is coming to an end. I’m confident that the new Election Integrity Division I will form when I become AG will ensure that the questions raised about the electoral process in Ohio in 2004 and 2006 will not arise when our state once again plays a key role in electing the next president in 2008.”

Senator Dann said the attorneys and staff assigned to his Election Integrity Division will work with the local BOEs and the secretary of state to ensure that laws and regulations related to voting are applied equitably and consistently across Ohio, to provide ongoing training and support, and to investigate and, when warranted, prosecutre election law violations. “My goal is to work with the secretary of state and local boards to ensure that Ohio has elections that are a model of democracy, not the subject of ridicule.”

Wulsin Radio Ad Featuring Ben ‘Cooter’ Jones

Wulsin takes on Schmidt in rural counties with new ad campaign

CINCINNATI, OH -- A new country music radio ad from the Wulsin campaign appeals directly to voters in Jean Schmidt’s traditional rural-voter base.

“No More ‘Boss Hogg’ Politics” features former Georgia Congressman and popular Nashville icon Ben Jones, also known as ‘Cooter’ from the television show, “The Dukes of Hazzard”.

Jones tells voters not to listen to Schmidt’s attacks. “Consider the source,” he says, defending his friend Congressman Jack Murtha and standing up for Victoria Wulsin, “Victoria ain’t about to raise your taxes and take your guns”.

“Victoria Wulsin would be a better representative than Jean Schmidt for all the voters in the 2nd District” says campaign manager Mary Huttlinger. “Victoria has worked in the very rural health programs that this Congress wants to cut, and she knows what’s important to this community.”

This is the first of two new ads reaching out to voters who may have doubts about Jean Schmidt, but have yet to seriously consider Victoria Wulsin.

“We’re asking all voters in the District to look beyond Jean Schmidt’s angry rhetoric and consider which candidate really stands for what’s important: good jobs with decent wages and keeping their families healthy and safe.”

Listen to the Ad: No More ‘Boss Hogg’ Politics

About Ben “Cooter” Jones
Actor and former two term Georgia Congressman Ben ‘Cooter’ Jones, best known for his role as Cooter Davenport, the mechanic on the “Dukes of Hazzard” and is very active in politics as a writer and commentator.

Ben Jones also runs “Cooter’s Place” -- “Dukes of Hazzard” museums in Nashville and Gatlinburg, TN and the “Dukes Music Fest”.

Cooter’s Place | Ben Jones Bio

WULSIN TO BARNSTORM WITH STRICKLAND MONDAY

Wulsin and Strickland to discuss Piketon “A” Plant

SOUTHERN OHIO -- Victoria Wulsin will barnstorm Brown, Adams, Pike and Scioto counties on Monday with Ted Strickland. They will share their vision for a stronger southern Ohio -- one with good paying jobs, strong schools, and affordable health care.

In Waverly and Portsmouth, Wulsin and Strickland will talk about the future of the Piketon “A” Plant. Wulsin will lay out her support for federal support for a decontamination and decommission plan at the plant.

Turnaround Ohio Tour -- Ted Strickland and Victoria Wulsin

MONDAY, OCTOBER 30
2 PM: Georgetown, Brown County
Brown County Fairgrounds

3:30 PM: West Union, Adams County
Courthouse Square

5 PM: Waverly, Pike County
Old County Courthouse
100 E. 2nd St.

6:30 PM: Portsmouth, Scioto County
Plumbers and Pipefitters Hall
1236 Gallia St.

“PRYCE IS WRONG” ON THE ECONOMY

COLUMBUS, OH -- Today, Mary Jo Kilroy, Franklin County commissioner and Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress from the 15th Congressional District, criticized her opponent for her unrealistic assessment of Ohio’s economy.

“Deborah Pryce continues to tout an economy that simply does not exist for the vast majority of Central Ohioans. That’s a disservice to this community. Ignoring the economic challenges we face in Ohio, Pryce truly demonstrates her disconnect from this district,” Kilroy said.

In June, Pryce told the LA Times, “‘What’s not to like about this economy? Virtually everywhere you look, you see good news.’” Additionally, Pryce continues to refer to central Ohio’s economy as “text book perfect.” She went so far as to say “story book economy” in the October 12th debate at the Fawcett Center. [ LA Times, 6/2/06]

One thing not to like about the economy in the 15th Congressional District is the spike in unemployment over the last five years. The Associated Press reported, “GOP Rep. Deborah Pryce’s suburban Columbus district is relatively affluent but suffered one of the worst jumps in unemployment in the country from 2000 to 2005 -- from 3.7 percent to 6.6 percent. ‘Incomes fell in Columbus and in Upper Arlington, a high-income suburb,’ said George Zeller, an economist who did an analysis for Cleveland’s Center for Community Research.” [Associated Press , 10/27/06]

Pryce lives in Upper Arlington.

“You can’t fix a problem if you refuse to acknowledge the problem, and Pryce is far too consumed with pushing the White House economic talking points than fixing the economic situations in our community,” Kilroy said. “Pryce and the Bush Congress created the largest deficit in American history, and that is a drag on our economy. The high cost of health care is a drain on large and small businesses, and too costly for Ohio families. Our economy needs middle class tax relief that includes tax benefits for people buying a new home and taking care of elderly parents and tax breaks for parents sending their children to college.

“Pryce is not a leader on economic development in Central Ohio, and she is too out of touch with our community and our economic needs,” Kilroy said. “We need new priorities and an independent voice fighting for our community in Congress. It’s time for change.”

Bombs Away

Steve Chabot

Jean Schmidt

Deborah Pryce

Joy Padgett

Sandra O'Brien

Greg Hartmann

Betty Montgomery

Mike Turner

Mary Taylor

Mike DeWine