If I have to write a diary for the next 40 days I will. We have an important runoff election in AL-07 on July 13. Regardless of who wins between Shelia Smoot and Terri Sewell we will have the first African American female from Alabama in Congress. Truly a historic event either way.
We need to go with the candidate in this race who has proven that they are progressive and will fight for the least of these. We need to go with the candidate who has already improved the quality of life for people she has represented. That person is Shelia Smoot
We did a good job of financially supporting the best Dems in Arkansas and Pennsylvania. We need to do it again here.
My favorite Smoot line is
You need to elect someone for Congress that will impact your life not their own
That's the kind of Representative we need in Washington.
A number of pro-choice groups such as Emily's List, the Women's Campaign Forum and NOW endorsed our opponent before the primary. They made their decision and I'm not going to criticize that decision. Instead of using their money to help endangered incumbents like Barbara Boxer and Carole Shea Porter or focusing on candidates like Tarryl Clark they are in a position where they a fighting for one pro-choice African American Female over another. Our Democratic groups have got to do a better job of utilizing resources.
That being said we have a chance to make history and put a grassroots Dem in office that will always be on our side.
Shelia draws this contrast between her and her opponent a former Wall Street Attorney and then bond attorney
"My opponent talks about what she can potentially do, well, I've already done those things. I've done job creation; I helped keep Cooper Green Hospital open
Cooper Green Hospital is the indigent care hospital that the conservatives have been trying to close for years. This would put a lot of low income residents in a precarious situation.
I don't know our opponent personally, but I know Shelia and she has a big heart. We need this little lady with a big heart in Congress. She will not let us down.
Oh and here's my pitch for money, knew you were going to get that. We have a great chance of winning this race but we are facing an opponent being funded by the establishment. Can you consider giving us $20.10 so we can get more yard signs, campaign literature, advertising and water for volunteers? We have six weeks until this runoff but time goes quick in such a tight race. Every bit helps and we need it now.