The full text of Chris Dodd's speech is below the fold.
Caucus Night Remarks
The Temple for Performing Arts, Des Moines
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Thank you, Iowa - thank you.
I want to congratulate the other candidates for running a spirited campaign representing the best of what we stand for as Democrats and Americans.
This evening Democrats sent a clear message that this party is united in our belief that our nation needs change to restore our security, our Middle Class and all that makes this country great.
Our campaign has been about results. And even though tonight we didn't get the result we all were hoping for, this experience has been one of the most rewarding in my life of public service.
It was 47 years ago this month that I was seated with my family on the East Front of the United States Capitol in the bright winter cold and heard President Kennedy ask all Americans to be a part of something larger than ourselves.
It was a moment every American took part in. A moment that changed us as individuals and as a country.
For a generation of us, that moment fueled a hunger to answer the call of our President.
A hunger to make a difference.
A year ago, announcing my campaign at the Old State House in Connecticut where the first written constitution guaranteeing the right to representative government was enacted, I spoke about the need for just such a moment again - for our next President to renew that call.
Despite the results this evening, I still believe that is true.
I always knew this endeavor would be an uphill battle against very tough odds.
But just as I have learned again and again in my life - from that day with my family…to my two years in the Peace Corps…to my 26 years in the United States Senate:
Only when you try can you truly make a difference.
And that, my friends, we did.
While we came up short in the race for caucus votes tonight, our campaign has more than kept pace in the race of ideas.
By raising ideas no other Presidential candidate has ever proposed, let there be no doubt that this campaign has set the standard.
When we began this race, every Democrat was for ending the war in Iraq - a war that has made us not more secure, but less so.
But it was only when we stood up and said this President wouldn't get another penny to fight that war that other candidates committed to doing what was necessary to actually end it.
When we began this race, every Democrat—every American—agreed that in America, we should never need a national crisis to bring the country together with national purpose.
But only when we proposed a universal national service plan to create the first generation in history that served our country did the national service debate begin in earnest - to create that renewed sense of community we all want.
And after 7 years of insecurity and watching this President have to go into hiding when he traveled abroad, we were all for stopping this President's assault on the Constitution.
But it was only when I stood up and you stood with me—it was only when tens of thousands of Americans stood together and said we would do whatever it took to stop this President from shredding the rule of law—that we actually did stop him.
And that fight goes on.
Tonight I am withdrawing from the Presidential race. But let me assure you, we do not exit this race with our heads hanging - rather, we do so with our heads held high.
Whether it is restoring the Constitution to the American people, standing up to this President to end this war, or starting the discussion about what it will really take to tackle global warming and bring the country together, we stand confident that the difference we made in this race will endure longer than any speech, any election or any political campaign.
And none of it would have been possible without the friendship and support of so many along the way.
In the last few months, Iowans have learned what Connecticut has known for years:
That Jackie Clegg Dodd is something else.
Elegant, eloquent, relentlessly on message - a Presidential candidate could learn a thing or two from a gal like her.
And our girls, Grace and Christina - honorary Iowans these last few months. I keep telling them that Connecticut audiences will appreciate their ice skating and Irish dancing just as much as Iowans have.
My brother and sisters, Martha, Bernie, Tom, Carolyn, Gina, Chris, and Kelly and our nieces and nephews - no one could ask for a more supportive, loving family.
And all the members of the Connecticut delegation. All of them came out and campaigned their hearts out in the Iowa cold.
Jackie and I want to thank the caucus-goers in Iowa and voters around the country stood with me in this race.
Your support allowed us to energize this race with new ideas rooted in our strongest, most enduring Democratic principles.
Tonight we thank all Iowans for welcoming us into their homes and hearts.
Jackie and I agree - the sincerity and generosity Iowa families have offered us in this campaign has been overwhelming. Your warmth and hospitality.
One thing I've learned these last few months is that this process starts here in Iowa for a reason.
You understand that you aren't just making a choice - you're making history.
And you are making it on behalf of a nation.
You dig and prod and poke - and you demand direct answers to direct questions.
Candidates, the process and most importantly the country are better served for it.
I want to thank my friends and staff - the motley crew known collectively as "The Dodd Squad."
They say that you can measure how people feel about you by how hard they are willing to work for you.
If that's the case, then as blessed as I have been in my life, tonight I am more fortunate than I ever realized.
Each of these men and women—and I wish I could name them all—has worked their hearts out for this campaign.
I want to say a special thank you to the friends we made in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada - but most of all, my friends and constituents in Connecticut.
Thank you for allowing me to share our common concerns and confidence in a bright future with the rest of the country.
My friends at the International Association of Fire Fighters who have been out there day after day for me, especially Harold Schaitberger.
Harold, you've always said that fire fighters stand by those who stand by you. Well, in this campaign, you proved it.
You didn't follow the polls - you followed a higher power.
You followed your heart.
As I said when the fire fighters endorsed me back in August, for them it was never about who was in the lead, but who ought to lead.
It always has been.
I'll never forget the trust you put in me, Harold.
And lastly, the hundreds of thousands of citizens online who stood up time and again with us - the NetRoots.
In this campaign, you helped us show just what is possible when we stand up on principle, like when we stopped that terrible FISA bill in the Senate just a few weeks ago.
Tonight, I am infused with a renewed sense of purpose and energy, having learned so much from the hopes and dreams of the good people of Iowa, New Hampshire and others around the country.
I will carry the determination and courage of this campaign, as well as the result-oriented leadership I offered, back to the important battles that need to be won for the future of our country.
As I have for 26 years, I intend to serve by building broad, bipartisan support for bold ideas rooted in Democratic principles, turning them into national policies.
I commit that the fights we've waged in this campaign will not end tonight, from our Constitution to reversing global warming.
Whether it is the dozens that worked the field…the hundreds that worked the phones…or the tens of thousands that took to the blogs, I will make sure that the voices that spoke with us in this campaign are not forgotten but amplified.
Not ignored - but championed.
Nearly 40 years ago, my father said, "There's no other calling in life where you can do as much for as many people as you can through public service."
"Lawyers only have so many clients.
"Doctors only so many patients."
"But a well-intentioned public servant can make a difference in the lives of millions."
Tonight, I commit to work my heart out for the eventual nominee our Party chooses from this very talented field of candidates.
That remains our calling, our vocation, yours and mine.
Thank you, friends and family.
Thank you all for the gifts you have given Jackie and me - for your generosity.
Thank you, Iowa.
Comments
We all at Edwards supporters say thank you for all of your
time with this country !! Thank you for running and helping
to shape the race !!
In all hope, I hope that you support John Edwards has he can
win in Nov 08, I think John Edwards can really win in all 50 states or
be close to winning in states the other candidates can not.
John is for the average American as you know that proably more
than any of us.
OUR COUNTRY the UNITED STATES needs Edwards !!
Thanks again Chris and God Bless your family, I know they fell in love
with Iowa, been many times and love that neat state !!!
I should gladly have worked for Senator Dodd in the general election, as I should have for Mike Gravel. Now I ask the supporters of both, who have much in common, to unite behind the candidacy of Senator Obama.
This message of hope has not been heard for nearly 50 years, when I worked for Senator Kennedy. The current administration has done its best to destroy US finance and US credit around the world. It has entered into an endless war for no reason at all, while cutting taxes for those who least need that relief.
I do not know if the damage it has done can be undone, only that Obama is now the candidate with the best promise of a way back to respect for the US around the world and fairness to the non-owners of the United States.
Dennis Harrington
Gettysburg, PA
dpharrington@embarqmail.com
Well, there is actually a reason, if a belief can be a reason. In this case, the belief that the U.S. deserves to be dominant over all other nations is the reason for the destruction of all those who do not obey. The quest for superiority has been reduced to the "last man (or nation) standing" meme. That is, those unwilling to recognize the U.S. as superior will be crushed under its heel.
This lust for power will not be satisfied. It needs to be stopped. The only question is whether we can stop it ourselves or are we going to need outside help.
Want real change ? Vote Libertarian. Fiscally conservative, Socially liberal. Thanks.
Senator Dodd,
I would have been extremely glad to see you go forward as a Presidential candidate and to lead this country as its chief executive. BUT... I'd like to recognize the fact that many times lately you have played the role of leader and provided leadership when others would not.
Thank you, Senator. I have been proud to support you in the FISA fight and other efforts. I look forward to continuing to support you as that fight and other efforts to protect our Constitution and the primacy of the Rule of Law. You are absolutely correct to say that you leave this Presidential campaign with head held high.
Congratulations. I am proud to be your fellow countryman. Keep up the good work.
Thank you.
JimB.
Vox Libertas
I am grateful for your leadership on very important issues and I look forward to your continued work. There are many ways to serve this country and and I agree that you and the Dodd Squad have provided important leadership in this campaugn. It may very well be that you can get more done continuing to serve as Senator than you would be able to do as President. I only recently discovered you as I was trying to figure out what candidate to support. Somehow, you touched my heart and what you had to say made the most sense to me. So keep up the good work.
JoanS
Well, I'd really like to see Chris Dodd in the Senate as Vice President, presiding over the proceedings as the position calls for.
If there's one thing Dick Cheney has been right about, it's that he's not a member of the executive. Until the President needs to be replaced for a short period or for good, the V.P. is a member of the legislative branch. Which is why I would argue that the current V.P. arrogation of executive powers is unconstitutional and grounds for impeachment.
BTW, as long as the Senator is not a candidate, he can be supportive of the impeachment process without looking self-serving. The argument that there's so much else to do now doesn't hold water since the Republicans and Bush/Cheney are intent on blocking most everything anyway.
Thank you, Senator, and your staff for your leadership on Constitutional issues during this campaign. You accomplished something truly amazing that I didn't think was possible in the current political climate: stopping the assault on our individual liberties by a lawless, fearmongering executive and its enablers in Congress. Keep going!
Thank you for your leadership on FISA and more broadly on constitutional issues. I have been proud to be a small contributor to your campaign, and I deeply appreciate your courage. Please keep up that good work in the Senate: we need you more than we ever have.
I'm grateful for Senator Dodd for the work he put into this race. He was the candidate who inspired me, and despite trailing in the polls, I think the Senator was able to influence the issues being discussed. He has made an impact on the race as it continues forward Senator Dodd, thank you so much for sticking to your ideals and putting so much work into your campaign.
I would have liked to have seen you as President but we NEED you as a Senator...Where would we be without you? What would have happened to the Contitutional rights we have left - had it not been for you?? Please continue your work.
I'm a republican and I'm sorry to see you go. You were certainly among my favorites in the Democratic race. Please continue to stand strong for our Constitution as a Senator. Please continue to oppose telcom immunity. I thank you for bringing the issues of the war, liberty and the Constitution to the front.
Dear Mr. Dodd,
Thank you for running for president. Because while other candidates dedicated their runs solely to their own political victory, you used your campaign to give a victory to the Constitution. And for that the nation, and I, are grateful. I am sorry that you will not be our president, but grateful that you were the candidate that stood up for the bill of rights.
Sincerely,
Cynara
Thanks for all your hard work Mr. Dodd, it is like Obama has said, "If we were electing just on experience, then Biden and Dodd would be our men!! But America is strange and your great work did not seem to be enough, But please know that you are respected and we are honored that you gave a shot at helping us get back our country.
Thank you for bringing the fight for our Constitutional rights to the forefront, Sen. Dodd. You were the only one getting the message out in a way that could not be ignored. Now go back to the Senate and show the remaining candidates what leadership looks like. Kick some Repub and Democratic ASS!!! Never give up, never give in! We've got your back!
CHRIS DODD FOR MAJORITY LEADER!
Thank you for the hard work and time you put into Iowa. It has been very inspiring getting to know you over the past few months. It is very refreshing to know that there are people in the Senate fighting to put our country on track when so much seems to be going wrong. I was proud to stand up for you and your beliefs on caucus night, thank you.
I have to say that I have never been more inspired by any one individual running for public office. I felt very passionately about working hard for you here in St. Louis. I believe the fight is not over and that right thinking individuals such as myself are ready to take up this fight to the end but I don't see this ending in Iowa. i respect those caucus goers but my God are we not fighting for the White House. My wife and I as well as my daughter have been waiting and hoping for someone like you Senator Dodd to bring this Nation together and move this Country in a progressive way that i believe only you can do. I feel somewhat disappointed in the fact that one state with such a limited voice in comparison to the rest of the nation in one night single handily stopped Senator Dodd from possibly being one of our most respected and admired Presidents.
Dear Senator Dodd,
Although I'm extremely disappointed that you will not be running for President, I'm so proud to be a Connecticut constituent of yours. You and your family clearly illustrated the best of our state and the best of our country's public servants. Your campaign was run with integrity, honesty, and identified positive and intelligent solutions for the many issues our country continues to face. Thank you for your commitment, leadership, and hard work.
Relax and rest up while you have the opportunity - we need you even more now in the Senate than ever before.
Chris Dodd withdrew? From what? What was he running for? Town dog catcher? Supervisor of parks?
Thank you, Senator, for providing leadership in so many ways, but particularly on the vital constitutional issues of torture, illegal prisons and domestic spying. You have been a beacon of principle in the often amorphous world of politics. Godspeed.
Are there any thoughts of throwing your support behind Edwards with an endorsement or even your mailing list? I think Edwards has policies the closest aligned with you, and the idea of an Edwards-Dodd ticket, or even a role as Secretary of State in a Edwards administration sounds like a dream ticket to me.
PS: I just finished reading "Letters from Nuremberg" and I am so sad you had to withdraw from this race. America needs someone with your moral backbone, but if not you, then Edwards is my second choice.
Dodd for Majority Leader? GREAT IDEA!!
Senator Dodd - thank you for all of your efforts to make this a better country. While I'm sure last night was disappointing for you and your staff, please know that you have the respect and admiration of many Americans.
I truly believe that when one door closes, another opens. Whether it is the fight against telco immunity and other assaults on the Constitution and the rule of law or a new role as Senate Majority Leader or in the next administration, I fully believe that you will continue to be a courageous leader and a man of strong convictions.
Enjoy some much-needed rest and time with your family! Best Regards.
Thank you for your dedicated work to our country. Supporters in Iowa continue to think of you! Please continue the great work you do to fix our sinking nation.
Thank you, Senator Dodd. When you stood up for the Constitution, you set yourself apart from the field. I am grateful for your candidacy. I will be doing what I can to help you later this month when you again fight both parties, the White House and corporate interests to keep immunity out of the FISA bill. You are a champion. Thank you so much for your continued service.
I'm watching the video now. I have to say - Jackie is wonderful with the children. As a mom of a small child, I can really appreciate that.
As a member of the NH volunteer Dodd squad, I'm proud of the tenor, substance and integrity of your campaign and your continued leadership in the Senate. You raised the bar in the campaign in terms of the issues and the debate, and made all the candidates better for it. In the past you have demonstrated vision with your progressive legislation and the discipline to see it through. I look forward to you introducing your ideas on the Senate floor, regardless of who is President.
Your staff is top notch and proof positive that a great leader attracts great people. I only hope that we who have been inspired by your service and record can emulate the example and continue the movement, whether it be on the local, state or national level. That would be a great legacy of your campaign.
Thank you to the citizens of CT for continuing to vote you into office. I think many of us have learned, however, that you are the People's Senator. I will personally continue to support you in whatever role you play in public service. And also, let us all be mindful that who we elect to the Senate and House can have as much impact as the Presidency, if not more in some respects.
Finally, thank you to your family for their sacrifices over the last year. My only real regret is that we couldn't get our daughters together for a play date!
Rest up, as the battle continues.
Thanks DownWithTyranny for the link (Matt you might want to add them) and thank you Matt for the Post, much appreciated.
And thank you Chris Dodd, Class act. I hope you get majority leader, and/or a BIG cabinet post in the new Democratic Admin!
I have been looking at the other candidates since last night's results. I saw Obama speak at the democratic convention in '04 and while he gave a good speech it seemed to lack something. Well his speech does not lack anything anymore. Obama is the real deal. What an amazing force of presence for our country. Unfortunately, for everything Obama has to offer there just isn't that Washington experience which I deeply feel will be needed. Then it hit me like of ton of bricks. An Obama/Dodd ticket. I think Edwards is great and all but just think, Obama/Dodd. The new comer, full of spirit and the hope of a country; the experienced statesman, the defender of the Constitution and the rule of law. One ready to improve America with every once of his being and the other knowing how to get it done and with just as much determination. Just think of what it mean for our country!
Another thing to think about is if, heaven forbid, anything were to happen to Obama we get Dodd as our president. Anyone wanting to get rid of Obama so they can continue their dark plots are going to get far more than they bargained for when Dodd steps up to bat.
Obama gives the hope that we will start to fix our schools, improve our communities, build a better nation, Dodd gives the knowledge and wisdom. Wedges have been getting a lot of very disagreeable press lately but image it this way. You have a big, round hickory log that you need to split for firewood. You pin point exactly where will be a good split line in the log and you drive the wedge in until it is firm into the wood then you pick up the 8lb maul and turn that problem into kindling. Obama and Dodd.
Senator Dodd:
I have to admit, I was completely unaware of you prior to this campaign season. Over the course of the past year, I grew to admire and respect your values and courage. That respect then grew into support of your candidacy.
Although you have chosen to turn this page, your voice is still one of great importance moving forward. I truly believe that.
Continue the fight, Mr. Senator. We need you to.
Thank you for your service to this country!
God Bless...
Dear Senator Dodd,
Thank you for running for the office of President. I have always admired your work as Senator, although I live in New York State. Unfortunately, it seems to be the press that decides our candidate, not the people.
Please continue your work as Senator. You have always represented the people very well in that position.
God Bless you,
Dear Senator Dodd,
I'm very sorry that I won't get the opportunity to vote for you here in New Hampshire on Tuesday. Your leadership in the Senate, even in the midst of a campaign and most notably during the recent FISA/telecom immunity affair, deserves recognition and praise. You never got the press coverage that you deserved for that or anything else, not that that should be surprising these days. Keep up the good work, and I hope we'll be seeing much more of you in the near future.
NO! Sen. Dodd thank you for being the only candidate to actually stand up for America by remaining active in the Senate throughout your campaign. Your insights and participation in the process will be missed.
ahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!
As my wife and I and child were driving back from visiting family in the Boston area last week I noticed a sign on the bridge on 84 over the Hudson river. It said it's not that bad and that it will get better. I should have written down the 800 number for you.
Since I don't like any of "The Big 3" that are left, I'll just write Dodd in on Election Day (unless he's VP, then I'll begrudgingly vote for whoever had the wisdom to make him VP).
You are still my hero Chris. Thank you for your hard work, and you can count on my continued support.
Thank you again.
Senator Dodd, We want to thank you and your family for coming here to Iowa. You inspired us with your zeal for public service and your humility. Your dedication to the Constitution was a much-needed addition to this campaign. This country is blessed to have you as a U.S. Senator. You will always be welcome in Iowa.
Let me ask you a few questions Senator Dodd.
Having had time to really press the flesh with everyday Americans do you understand the gravity of the situation we find ourselves in?
Can you appreciate the extent of the damage and the necessary prerequisites to repairing the economic, social and governmental structures that might give us some relief?
OR will you go back into the Washington bubble and forget what has accelerated into a major implosion in America much less the effect of our actions on the world?
oil Tell me, will you stand up with Feingold and Wexler for impeachment and bring the white collar criminals to account for their wrongs?
Are you aware of the seriousness of what Al Gore has been saying is a planetary "emergency"? DO you get the connection that we need leaders in all parts of government to stand up to ALL interests opposed to the earth community not only those opposed to our Constitution.
This has become much bigger than what Americans need.
Energy is the key. If we do not solve our energy problems we will give our government carte blanche powers to spy on all of us because Americans will gladly substitute security for liberty. The powers know that the fear of losing our lifestyle is much greater than the toll of waging energy wars "over there" because for those whose sacrifice is asked is small and govt can count on the support of a fearful public in continuing these resource wars. The loss of lifestyle would be too great a sacrifice unless leaders stand up and say otherwise (and they won't because that would mean loss for them as well).
Did you experience enough of the uninformed populace to understand the need for REAL leaders who are willing to take a stand for those who simply don't know any better? That too won't happen. The education will get worse and the greed for power will grow accordingly. Empire has precedence.
The real question is: how much are you willing to risk to say what is right in all areas? Are you really ready to take on the world from your ivory halls?
The answer from my perspective is simple. No one will do enough. After years and years of standing at street corners, participating in rallies, writing letters, talking till blue in the face with other Americans, voting, campaigning etc. we (my husband and I)are finally one of the lucky few and will close on our house this month. We will take our money and run. I can no longer stand by and watch this happen. I am done. There are other banana republics with cleaner ocean water and socialized medicine that offer far more for retirees like us. Democracy has become a failed experiment and the Democrats are hastening the process. Look at your colleagues, a pampered bunch.
Good luck because with winners like Huckabee you're going to need it.
I just got finished reading my kids his bedtime story from 'The bibliophile library of literature art and rare manuscripts' copyright 1904, eight year olds don't really eat it up but I they listen and I get to choose the bedtime story. Anyway tonight's reading was by Charles Reade from "Peg Woffington" I thought I would share with everyone a paragraph from the story.
Mabel Vane interrupted her. "This would be cruel and base," said she, firmly. "No woman's forehead shall be soiled by me. O madam! beauty is admired, talent is adored; but virtue is a woman's crown. With it, the poor are rich; without it the rich are poor. It walks through life upright, and never hides its head for high or low."
I thought it very timely with what we have be discussing here even if it was written in 1852.
correction: "my kid's bedtime story", singular, possessive
Chris Dodd and his campaign will always have a special place in my heart. I am so proud of Senator Dodd. I had so much fun in my efforts to get his message out. He is the best candidate that I have ever supported.
I stopped by Mr. Ed's Flagpole company on caucus day to purchase 2 Iowa Flags that contained our state motto, "Our Liberties We Prize and Our Rights We Will Maintain". One flag I gave to Dodd campaign worker Matt Greene, a good worker from Conneticut, who covered Harrison County, just north of my town, Council Bluffs. Matt was the first to spot the motto and use it at a Harrison County event to help explain the Senator's work, I believe at the time, on the Habeas Corpus Restoration Act, and the motto fit the Senator's work very, very well.
The motto now reminds me of Chris Dodd, especially regarding his great work in Washington, in the middle of this campaign, to fight the retroactive immunity amendment to the FISA bill. It also reminds me of his father, who fought for the rule of law during the Nuremberg trial to help establish our country's moral authority in the world at the end of the Second World War.
The second flag we be in my office. I am an assistant County Attorney here in Council Bluffs and in my position I prosecute Sexual Abuse cases and child endangerment cases. I have the privilege, in my job, of addressing Iowans during jury selection about our criminal justice system and our constitution. I get to do that several times each year and its a privilege that I do not take lightly.
Chris Dodd once again made change a reality here for me in Pottawattamie County. From now on, whenever I go through jury selection and a criminal prosecution trial, when our our constitution is at work and rule of law is doing its job, I am going to give an extra effort to talk to those people about the liberties we prize and the rights that we must maintain, just like Chris Dodd does, every day. I am going to think about Chris Dodd every time I talk with those folks and every time I look at that Iowa State flag in my office and every time I see our motto. That is a good change that I am looking forward too.
As a father of an autistic child I will also try my best to work with his mother, who works so hard to help him advance to hopefully, someday, have a quality of life. I will also rest assured that my son, Andrew, has a friend in Washington that will fight hard for him, as he has done his whole career, fighting for children and families, Chris Dodd.
This was a very special campaign that I will never forget. The McGinn's here in Southwest Iowa, my mom and dad, especially, really connected with Senator Chris Dodd. He has provided a wonderful example. The McGinn's feel alot better about the direction of this country thanks to Chris Dodd and all his good work. This whole process has benefitted from his particiapation, his debate performances, his actions in Washington, his tremendous effort, great leadership and the inspiration he has given us. Iowa is very fortunate to have hosted his special campaign. America is a better place because of his great efforts and wisdom the wonderful example he has set for all of us.
Thank you Chris Dodd.
I had the honor of being Sen Dodd's North Dakota Coordinator. I was in Iowa from last Sat until this afternoon. I haven't been this passionate about a candidate for Pres since Paul Simon in '88. I had wanted Sen Dodd to run for a long time. I haven't cried for one who lost since '88. At the concession speech, I cried a little & then a lot more off & on during the drive home. I'd like to share an experience I had on the drive home. I stopped in Fergus Falls, Minnesota at a gas station to get some coffee. I met a 5th grade teacher from Wahpeton, North Dakota. They were supporters of Sen Dodd & I gave her some things I brought with me from Iowa. For months, I've struggled to find North Dakotans who will back Dodd & I met them. She likes what he did on FISA. If you're reading this, I'd be happy to speak to your class. Just e-mail me at brh701@yahoo.com.
Brad Handlin
2008 Campaign
North Dakota Coordiantor
Good job Chris Dodd and all your supporters. Although I would have voted for Joe Biden - a Biden-Dodd or Dodd-Biden ticket for President would have been great. We know Hillary, what she stands for and how she operates. John Edwards I believe has the people's interests at heart.
I am very concerned about Barack Obama. I read his website under "issues" and ask you to check out his "civil rights" section and read his plan (adobe format at the bottom of the page). It doesn't match up with his spoken word of we are not a Black or White or Hispanic America - we are one America. In Barack's Plan, he talks about the African American Lawyer quota in his "Refocus the Criminal Section's Enforcement Priorities". Everyone, please read this.
I ask every Democrat to carefully read and listen to everything on the websites of each of the remaining candidates in the race. Scrutinize everyone. Please vote for the person with the most experience, integrity and best interests of EVERY American to keep our country safe and to restore America to it's greatness for ALL Americans.
Senator Dodd:
It was a disappointment to me to see you drop out of the race, but unfortunately the voice of your party spoke quite clearly- though mis-spoken as they were.
As I commented before on one of your blogs, I am convinced that the Democratic voters in this election have been swayed by glitz, glamour and celebrity and not by substance and experience- of which both you and Sen. Biden clearly displayed having the most.
I'm sorry that so many voters have become so shallow and gullible to have overlooked a "class act" like yourself.
Best of luck!
I am truly saddened by senator Dodd's poor showing in the primaries. I've admired Senator Dodd for years. Although I have yet to decide who I would vote for president,Chris was high on my list. I believe the Democratic field is full of good candidates. Living in Indiana I didn't have to make the tough choices early, I quess I was lucky in that respect.
xvet
Sen. Dodd,
Thank you, again, for your contributions to the race. As a Democrat, I was proud to have you standing as a candidate for the presidency.
I’m not just writing to thank you for your contributions to the race, however. I’m writing to implore you to endorse Senator Clinton’s campaign. Though she’s not as well-suited for the presidency as you, she’s the only candidate left in the race with the experience to achieve an agenda that works for us. While I admire Sens. Obama and Edwards, neither is as well-suited as Sen. Clinton to get things done, starting on day one of their presidency.
We need to restore confidence in and competence to government. We need more than rhetoric -- we need action. And we need a president who has the experience to bring the change we all so deeply care about.
I know some on this blog will disagree with me -- and I know I'm part of a minority Hillary-supporting community in the netroots. But I feel this needs to be said.
I hope you’ll endorse Senator Clinton before the New Hampshire primary. The campaign has reached a critical crossroads, and your endorsement could make the difference.
Thank you, again!
JM
I cautioned Hillary supporters about commenting on the Dodd blog but do they listen? Noooo. Alright you asked for it, it goes something like this:
Hillary should concede the race. Hillary lost in Iowa and everything after that is futile. Now JM might say, "Wait it's not over. There is still New Hampshire." Yes there is still New Hampshire and the the FISA bill with telecom immunity will come up again this month and I said that Sen. Dodd killed it last month. Dodd killed telecom immunity last month when he showed that it could be stopped and with that he showed it could be killed and with that he gave people hope. Now if Sen. Sessions stands on the senate floor and argues for telecom immunity he will permanently disgrace the Sessions family name. What Session is counting on is that years from now when the haves and the have-nots have become established that his children will be in the haves. What Sen Dodd reestablished is that we will not be a country of haves and have-nots, that we are still a country of the rule of law and Sen Sessions heirs will inherit that their great-great-great-grandfather was on the wrong side when the time came to reestablish America. Those who support the Bush administration support, either knowingly or unknowingly, the system of have and have-not. The system of have and have-not runs on one overriding principle, 'No one comes from the bottom up.' Before qualifications one must be loyal to the system to receive a position. Unfortunately it is a shortsighted system and the beginning of the end. About four years ago when I was typing away, similar to what I am doing now, I stated that maybe Bush was the bad side in the classic struggle of good verse bad. Today I realize how and why that is true. Bush takes away hope. This is what the 9-11 commission report stated in it's recommendations. For some in the middle east, and else where, we had taken away the hope that they could ever become more than what they were born into and desperate people resort to desperate measures. I am in absolutely no way condoning desperate measures I am merely stating where they come from. Bush's foreign policy plays right into recruiting terrorists because 'you are either with us or against us' and if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time there is no rule of law, there is no hope for you, of the haves and have-nots you have-not. Bush's system just doesn't effect people in other countries. His 'no child left behind' teaches the children of this country the core knowledge one will need to become a good worker but what does it not teach? Hope. Hope that everyone has an equal chance in this country. That is way the drop out rate has gone through the roof. In Bush's America you are either born with it or you were just in the wrong place at the wrong time the day you were born. Now Edwards understands that we are quickly sliding into a nation of haves and have-nots. He talks of the CEO who makes $10M. Edwards seems to miss the fact that Americans have no problem with someone making a $10M salary, heck, we don't care if they make $10M a day, just as long as our child will someday have a chance to do the same. In a land of haves and have-nots Edwards sounds dangerously like Robin Hood. We don't want to rob from the rich to pay the poor. And Hillary, yes JM, I haven't forgotten about you, sounds like in a world of haves and have-nots we just need to make the haves rich enough again and everyone will be happy. Now Obama his message is the message America really wants to hear, the one we are desperate to hear. That this does not need to be a country of haves and have-nots. That we can all have hope. We don't need to rob from the rich. We don't have to work within the status quo to make everyone happy. Obama will be president and this is a good thing. There would be something even better though. Obama has not come up with something completely new and ingenious, he will be the first to admit that, all he is saying is let us return to the promise this nation was founded on, 'We the People', where if you want to get filthy rich go for it but when you do you will still be in the land of the people and as such you do not pull the door closed behind you. America was founded on this principle and ever since people have fought to keep this dream alive. One such person is Chris Dodd. With decades experience Obama would do well to put Dodd on the ticket for while Obama has the message it is one thing to get into the White House it is another thing to lead the nation. I believe Obama is fully up to the job given that he is coupled with someone like Chris Dodd. Dodd does not need Obama, Obama needs Dodd.
And with that I rest my case. I have told Hillary supports before don't mess with Chris Dodd he is the real thing and you just can't handle that. I will patiently await Hillary's concession speech. America as the country of have and have-nots has officially ended. The only question remaining is how messy clean up will be.
Wow, Robert. Relax. Put the vitriol aside and save it for the Republicans. I'll strongly support Sen. Obama if he, indeed, becomes the nominee -- but I wouldn't count on him picking Senator Dodd to be his running mate. I think that' d be great, but I think it'd be equally unlikely.
I think it's perfectly reasonable for you and me to approach this from opposite angles. I now support Hillary because, quite simply, I'm convinced experience is the most important trait we need to be effective agents of change in the White House. That's why I liked Sen. Dodd. I'm also not convinced that Sen. Obama is the best candidate to carry a national ticket. He has yet to face -- and survive -- the scrutiny that Sen. Clinton has faced for nearly two decades.
Anyway, however it turns out, I'll be actively supporting the candidate with a "D" next to his or her name in 2008. And Robert, remember who your allies are -- and don't confuse us with your enemies.
I was just messing with you, JM. :) You know I love you.
I read the article on Boston Globe referenced in the adjoining post. I agree that Dodd is most likely a choice for secretary of state.
I got around to watching the ABC/Facebook debate last night. I would give the crown, or whatever the winner gets, to Edwards. He gave me the biggest laugh. I did not like the way the debate was conducted however. The most important question for the moderator was nuclear proliferation and the only time the question of education came up was when Richardson mentioned it with only a couple minutes to go in the debate so no one discussed it. The world from the 'haves' point of view. Their kids go to private schools, everything they own is insured, and they have the best health care money can buy. The only thing they can't insure against is getting blown up I guess.
Hillary might just be the greatest president this country has ever had. As she said simply being a woman is a huge change. Being a stay at home dad (and an entrepreneur, and the father of an autistic kid I might add) seeing the world from the point of view of the caregiver is a real eye opener.
I believe the issue with Hillary is that she has tried to not piss off the powers that be during the race and then when she gets to the White House she will have the power to make the changes this country needs. After getting no response from Washington for so long the American public is fed up with maybe we will get change. They want someone who they feel is going to get their country back for them, no if, and or buts about it. The rant you heard in my above post is the American rant and as you pointed out, it could be over done with harmful consequences. Unfortunately America is past that point now. Pendulums swing and for the swing Bush has taken it up one side it will come back the other side so while Hillary is a good middle candidate with the experience and vision we need she is not the hammer the American public is calling for. So you just got caught in the middle JM, nothing personal.
Thank you Senator Dodd. Thank you. We need you to keep fighting the good fight. Make Reid honor your hold on telecom amnesty or raise h*ll if he doesn't. My instinct is if you can get Clinton and Obama to come back and join you in a filibuster, you will draw the press' eye and stop this.