First and foremost, Paul Hackett's campaign needs volunteers every day this week and especially next weekend through Election Day. If you can make it, email campaign HQ at:
info@hackettforcongress.com
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When I left Canton for Ohio's Second Congressional District, I didn't know if I would be able to honestly tell
Grow Ohio readers that the Democrat, Paul Hackett, had a chance to win next Tuesday's Special Election. But after today's canvass (still in progress), I can honestly say that the Marine Corps Major has a real chance at taking "The Hill."
(Cross-post from GrowOhio.org)
First of all, the "
Showdown on Mainstreet" isn't much of a showdown after all. Democratic Headquarters was staffed for 24 straight hours yesterday, and people started pouring in at around 8 A.M. on a steamy Saturday morning. Republican headquarters is another story altogether, as the picture below illustrates.
I arrived at the Hamilton County Canvass staging area at around 9 A.M. with Ohio Democratric Party Field Organizer Demetrious Gorham. With walk-lists in hand and water already at the site, all that was left to do was wait for people to show up. And boy did they show up!
For about a half-hour, a steady stream of individuals started showing up. Next thing I knew, and seemingly out of nowhere, there were about 100 people ready to go. The Chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party kicked the fesitivities off and introduced County Commissioner Todd Portune who delivered what had to be one of the most inspirational speeches I have heard in quite some time. Portune, in his forties (at most), slowly made his way to the front of the large crowd with the aid of a walker and declared, "You know that I truly believe in Paul Hackett if I am willing to come out and block-walk for him." After about three or four ovations, Portune concluded and handed off to Demetrious who gave instructions and delivered the walk-lists to a thirsty throng of supporters eager to make a difference.
The turnout was a terrific illustration of the excitement brewing in this race--Democrats best chance to pick up the House seat in decades. What makes the afternoon even more amazing is that the Hamilton County Canvass
is only one of seven canvasses taking place district-wide today for Hackett. What I witnessed tucked away in the corner of Southwest Ohio was literally taking place across the entire district!
Tonight the candidate has an event with Congressman Tim Ryan. Earlier in the day he attended a "wobble trap shoot" with Ryan and Congressman Ted Strickland, a 2006 candidate for governor in Ohio. Things are really picking up here, and everyone is having a great time. Again, if you can make it here from anywhere in Ohio, please email the campaign (info@hackettforcongress.com).
Next weekend, a handful of 2006 Democratic congressional hopefuls from across Ohio will be down here lending a hand (Grow Ohio's very own
Mark Losey as well). Another Grow Ohio contributor,
Councilman Frank Szollosi is bringing down a group from Toledo as well. Video from today's events coming soon.