From Dollars to Donors

As I've gained experience as a candidate, I've come to understand very well that the political establishment judges candidates solely on their ability to raise funds. I understand the importance of funding (I really do). It's what every candidate needs to reach out to voters, to get their message out.
 But the number that really counts isn't the number of dollars raised, it's the number of donors, voters really, who support you. While the establishment judges our campaign on dollars, I'll judge it on donors. And we're strong.

 We exceeded our fundraising goal, thanks to the readers on DailyKos who brought in over $9000 in online donations in less than 24 hours. Thank you for making that happen, for illustrating that the real power in politics lies with the people. It's people like you that inspired me to run for office in the first place. And the support of so many people -- almost 1000 small donors contributed in the last quarter -- it's your support that keeps me going. I wrote yesterday that your outpouring of support made me feel like George in It's a Wonderful Life. I still feel the encouragement, unity, and hope you gave me.

  I hope that the establishment will go from dollars to donors when it judges the strength of a campaign, that they take into account the enthusiasm and commitment of our donor base. I well know how important money is in winning a campaign. In 2004, I came close to winning the seat on a shoestring budget. This year, I'll be facing a well-financed opponent for an open seat the Republicans desperately want to keep. Campaign finance can make the difference in whether we win. That's why your support is so important, so inspiring. Why I hope that you'll continue to contribute to this campaign as we continue the fight to reclaim District Six.

 As we campaign this summer, I'll keep reaching out to people. I'll keep listening. If I'm going to represent my district in Congress, to be their voice, then I need to hear what they have to say. I'm listening to them at house parties and community events. I'm listening in our Conversations with Christine series, where community members come together to share their ideas on the issues of our times -  education, the economy, health care. And I'm listening here, on DailyKos, where I get daily encouragement at the commitment and passion you show. Thank you for staying involved, for keeping your passion, for inspiring us all. Thank you for inspiring me

 Christine Cegelis

•  Thank you for running, Christine!

  I was glad to give.  Although I'm not in your district, it is important for me to help Democratic and women candidates all over the country.

  Just remember us when you are on the floor of the house!

  by mem from somerville on Thu Jun 30, 2005 at 02:38:34 PM PDT

•  Thanks for the diary Christine!

  Unfortunately, I have been unable to donate to your campaign so far. Hopefully I'll be able to during the campaign.

  Thanks for keeping us updated, and thanks for running. Hopefully you'll get to represent the people of the 6th district in the near future.

  by Toktora on Thu Jun 30, 2005 at 02:49:03 PM PDT

•  Hi Christine

  I am very glad that the fundraising is going well.  I tried to publicize the Kos diary throughout my local progressive lists.  

  I have something that is a rather burning concern right now and promise you that if you address this issue, you will soon have a lot of devoted volunteers and donors over this issue alone.

  For the first time ever, 'progressive' groups were asked to march in the Wheaton and Glen Ellyn 4th of July parades.  Bring signs with peace slogans, etc., we were told.  I submitted a list of slogans and here's how they came back:

  Okay
  "Pro American- Pro Peace"
  "Support our soldiers! Work for peace!"
  "Give Peace a Chance"

  Not Okay
  "War is expensive, peace is priceless"
  "Let's try pre-emptive peace"
  "Anything war can do, peace can do better"
  "Peace is patriotic"

  I was told the "not okay" ones were 'too controversial" and too blatently anti-war.

  This is why Democrats lose.  Please - speak in a clear, true voice on this and other issues that matter and you are going to be the next rep from the 6th.

  by KibbutzAmiad on Thu Jun 30, 2005 at 05:00:14 PM PDT

•  hyperbolic pants explosion

  That's what did it. I had to see what it was. Read the quick overview and had to join the party.

  Good luck. I hope to see future posts and diaries from you and will keep an eye out for the next fund raising call. I live in a pretty comfortably Democratic area, and though every candidate needs money its is more fun to give to someone who is in a race.

  Also was touched by an earlier HPE diary which mentioned that the Establishment was not too keen on having you run--since you were not already wealthy. I wish I could add a pithy remark to that but I guess my donation said enough.

  by Bill Section 147 on Thu Jun 30, 2005 at 05:21:41 PM PDT

•  Ya Already Know What I Think

  Least ways, I think you do. Great to see the fundraising hit the goal. Keep pluggin', and let us know when you need help.

  Bruce

  by wystler on Thu Jun 30, 2005 at 10:24:54 PM PDT