Hello. Here’s a little update from the caucus state.
I’ve been reading some “analysis” online about the Sanders campaign in Iowa that sounds a lot like a post mortem. I think a perception exists that because Bernie hasn’t come on here at the same level as Obama by this point in 2007 that it just aint happening. But the feeling I get on the ground is that the campaign is just now beginning to kick into gear.
Baked into Sanders’ campaign strategy is the fact that the caucuses are nearly a full month later this time. In 2008 we were out canvassing like maniacs on New Year’s morning (I was offered mimosas at more than one house!) This year we have the entire month of January to campaign before going to caucus in February. Bernie has been out campaigning in other states down the road, building a foundation for the primary campaign. But we know that he plans to spark that campaign to life by first winning the Iowa caucuses.
The effort here has been in building local organizations that will be able to capitalize on volunteer efforts once the campaign kicks into high gear. We expect a strong increase now in visits from the candidate himself to help drive this action and, indeed, he’ll be here in a few days to head up a “Weekend of Action" www.facebook.com/… that includes canvassing drives all over the state and five rally/town hall events with Bernie.
Last night we had a volunteer organized fundraiser in Iowa City and signed up some new canvassers for this next effort. A number of local musicians lent their talents for the evening. Local legend Dave Moore provided a real highlight with a little number he wrote for the campaign. Here’s a piece of it:
See y’all out there. This thing is just getting started.