All the work this year is showing results. In 2006, in Anna's race (Colorado House District 21) the mail in ballot data was:
57% R
21.7% I
20.2% D
This years requested ballots are:
50.9% R
25% I
23.6% D
This gives us real hope. Why you ask?
Well, because in 2006 the mail in ballot made up 35% of the vote. This year the mail in ballots represent 78% of the total ballots cast in 2006.
We are expecting a significant independent turnout - one that could push the R turnout in the district to under 48%. In 2006, Anna lost by the Republican turnout plus 1.9%, Pushing the R turnout below 48% means that, all other things being equal, the race is a dead heat. Just on the numbers above we are looking at a 52%/48% race in a R+26 district in Fort Dobson.
We are working hard to get additional mailings out to highlight real issue with her opponent - he is a sitting Colorado legislator whose law firm (solely owned) solicits clients to assist in their lobbying strategy and to get state contracts. Don't believe us - go to Bob Gardner's website - if nothing else it will move up the Google list and voters will get there first.
In addition, this year the campaign walked nothing but Rs and Is. We held precinct level meetings for Ds to get together - inviting the Obama campaign to participate in the meetings.
We are scrambling and a little disappointed - the Obama campaign told us this week that they will not be doing GOTV in our district. It makes sense - Colorado just went to more Ds than Rs registered and the D strongholds of the Denver/Boulder complex is likely to determine this race. The way the numbers look even in Anna's district give great credence to a larger D turnout and a win for Barack in Colorado.
We are asking anyone who wants to help with our GOTV to contact the campaign at Anna's campaign - we will provide call links and everything else.
It will be an historic year in Colorado and the country. It has been an honor to be part of the journey.