Posts with the tag Rural Issues

Letters to the Editor, from Ohio, for Barack

Michael in Ohio — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 03:24:31 EST

For many supporters, volunteering isn't enough. They need to show their support in other, far more public ways--they want others to hear their voice for change.

There are the untraditional ways--a music video, a painted pick-up truck, or a website that gives a free song to people who pledge to vote. But the conventional, and still effective way, is to write a letter to the editor. Here are a few from supporters in the Buckeye State, writing about why they support Barack Obama.

From the Chillicothe Gazette - "Obama has the vision to improve America's health care system":

I am a health care worker and have been a nurse since 1977. I have worked in several areas of health care. I would like to share with you one of the many reasons why I support Barack Obama for president. He cares about people and has the knowledge, energy and the ability to work for all of us to see that Americans have access to the health care they need. Currently in the United States, there are 45 million Americans who don't have health care insurance. I feel the health of the people should be a national priority.
Here are a few examples of the annual compension packages paid to CEOs of some of the major insurers: United Healthcare $8.3 million, WellPoint, Inc. $5.2 million, Cigna $4.7 million (Atlantic Information Services, April 24, 2006). Can you see where I am going with this?
OK, here is what Obama is proposing: If you already have insurance and are satisfied with it, you can keep it. If not, you will be able to buy a new insurance plan that's similar to the plan federal employees receive. If you do not have insurance at all, it will be made available to you. No one will be denied insurance because of a pre-existing condition or illness. If you cannot afford insurance, you will get a subsidy. Employers would be encouraged to offer health care coverage to their employees, and would be assisted by the government in providing this coverage. Obama's plan is not government-run health care, it builds on the employer-sponsored insurance system. The income tax exclusion would be retained and people without employer-based insurance would be offered a refundable tax credit (percentage-based on income).
--Vickie Smith, Waverly

From the Findlay Courier - "Obama Would Help Rural Ohio"

As the former Ohio state director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Office, I can say from experience that state and federal partnership is critical if we are to make much-needed investments in rural Ohio.
Barack Obama has two comprehensive and complementary plans that will move rural Ohio in the right direction. He has a vision for rural America and a health care plan for the nation that will enable our communities to thrive and our citizens to have access to affordable and quality health care.
Obama knows the unique demands of agriculture and is a strong supporter of the 2008 Farm Bill, which makes historic investments in conservation, renewable energy, and rural infrastructure and provides a safety net to family farmers.
Numerous innovations in the 2008 Farm Bill will directly affect rural Ohio, including a micro-enterprise program for small businesses and entrepreneurs, farmland preservation, and expanded access to fresh fruits and vegetables for our school children, which helps our youth and farmers alike. John McCain stated that he would have vetoed the bill.
--Linda Jones Borton, Ottowa

From the Wilmington News Journal - "Doesn't want four more years of the same"

I'm an Obama supporter and have been since the very early days of his campaign. I watched him win the Iowa caucus and was so proud of Iowa it moved me to tears as I listened to Barack’s speech that night. I know that none of this makes me unusual because most of his entire following feels the same way, particularly if they are young, college educated, men and women.
On to world affairs, when I watched Sen. Obama in Europe and the reception he received, I couldn’t help think how wonderful it would be to have a president that we could be proud of once more. I thought it would be so nice if Americans could visit Europe and not be viewed as ugly Americans.
Sen. Obama gives me hope that we can be a nation of innovation, and discovery, and that once again we can lead the world in technology, research, science, medicine and education. We have fallen terribly behind under this backward fundamentalist administration that rejects science.
--Nancy Compton, Wilmington

From the Zanesville Times Recorder - "Get the facts"

I will be so glad when this election is over and we no longer have to listen to the Republicans distort the truth, even in a previous letter published in the Times Recorder. Yes it is true that Obama will raise your taxes if you make more than $250,000, however, those of us who do not will actually see a tax cut. And if you are a senior citizen making less than $50,000 per year he will eliminate all income taxation. These are facts that even those who say we should "get informed" fail to mention.
If you want the facts on Sen. Obama you need to turn off those distorted McCain commercials and stop by the Obama headquarters, at 126 Muskingum Ave., and literature will be provided for you. You can also visit the Obama Web site at www.barackobama.com for factual information. I'm sure when you have the true facts you will be ready to cast your vote on Nov. 4, with pride and confidence.
Yes we do need change in Washington, the kind of change we will get from Obama and Biden.
--Bob Weber, Zanesville

From the Mansfield News Journal - "Obama, Biden dedicated to helping women"

I am making 77 cents for every dollar my male counterpart is making. Under John McCain's "Plan for the American Woman" this is acceptable because in John's own words, I "probably need more training." An Obama administration will enforce the Equity Pay Act and fight job discrimination.
I'm a single mom working two jobs, with no health insurance, and I'm stricken with breast cancer. Under McCain's plan, I am so messed up. Barack Obama is committed to ensuring that all Americans have health care coverage by the end of his first term.
Ohio women, don't take my word for this. Study the issues and find out for yourself. And even if you feel it's too late for yourself, consider the futures of your daughters and granddaughters. We need someone in Washington who respects women, not one who will choose one for his VP for all the wrong reasons. Barack Obama and Joe Biden are truly dedicated to improving the lives of women.
--Jeanne Alexander,Lucas

From the Sun Sentinel - "Independent says that Obama was easy choice for President"

I guess that I am the target audience for the Obama and McCain decision. I am an Independent voter in the state of Ohio. Once again, I believe that Independents from Ohio will decide the election.
Over the years I have voted for Democrats, Republicans and even Ross Perot. This year, I am voting for Barack Obama. It was a pretty easy choice.
Why do I say this and what do I want? I want the war in Iraq to end. I want someone to look out for the middle class. I want to hold Wall Street accountable for its actions. I want to find alternative energy sources in order to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. I want both political parties to work together. I want a vice president that does not embarrass this country. I want this country to work with our allies, instead of pushing them around.
In my opinion, "trickle down economics" is not working. Unchecked free trade is not working. Letting the free market manage Social Security will not work. Putting health care completely in the hands of the free market without regulation will not work.
--North Ridgeville

From the Canton Repository - "Want to hear the sound of jobs in Stark again? Then vote for Barack Obama"

Last summer, a young woman moved in beside me on Genoa Avenue. After a cool, clear evening, she had to ask what that odd pounding noise was that she heard in the night. "A forge," I told her, and proceeded to explain the complicated process of drop forging and how that bass note boom made tools.
It dawned on me later that I could have given her a very simple answer. "That sound is the sound of industry."
I could have gone on to say. "Listen closely, as it soon may be gone."
So much of our county is filled with the deafening quiet one can hear only in an empty sweeper plant, or standing in the vast, unfilled parking lot of a vacant steel mill.
These haunting silences are the echoes of the Bush administration. An administration which has, by its promotion of unfair trade deals and tax breaks for companies that take their business off-shore, caused the loss of over 180,000 jobs in Ohio. That is 61 jobs a day!
If we, the voters, choose a candidate who has voted more than 90 percent of the time with George Bush, what will we hear for the next four — or eight — years?
Silence.
One big, empty silence.
On Election Day, remember that when you touch that screen, the sound it makes will echo through our future.
If you choose to elect Barack Obama, you are choosing to change that sound to the sound of steel mills building wind turbines. To the sound of molds filling with plastic, forming solar panels to help bring us out of this energy crisis. To the sweet sound of jobs, and a healthy middle class.
Make that sound, people!
--Barbara Lewis, Perry Township

Why do YOU support Barack Obama? Why are YOU going to vote for him today?

Hunters in Rural Ohio Stand Up for Barack

Michael in Ohio — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:07:47 EST

There have been many misperceptions about Barack's stance on gun rights, straying from his spoken commitment to the Second Amendment.

Fortunately he has some well-known hunters and shooters on his side. Recently supporter and American Hunters and Shooters Association President (and former NFL player) Ray Schoenke campaigned for Barack in Gallipolis and the Jackson County Headquarters.

In a letter to the editor in the Mansfield News Journal, a hunter/supporter directly addresses the gun issue:

In my opinion Barack Obama is the wise choice for president.
I am an avid firearms person and love to hunt. I have belonged to the National Rifle Association and other organizations and have voted Republican in the past on this issue alone. I really believe this has become a fear issue with the electorate and is being fostered by the Republican Party along with the NRA. Just remember that whenever a firearm controversy raises its ugly head, the membership roles of the NRA expand, so it is in their interests to foster these issues.
It has taken the Europeans centuries to realize you have to keep religion and politics separate. This was one of the greatest tenets our founding fathers put in place for us.
If you think the rest of the world is not paying attention to nor has a stake in the outcome of our election you better pay attention. Through modern times our presidents have cloaked themselves with the mantle of leader of the free world. If you don't believe they are paying attention, then why did 200,000 Europeans listen to one speech of Senator Obama's?
This election is not about or for me; it is about my children and grandchildren. If we continue down this same path there will be absolutely no future for any of them.

On other issues important to rural Ohioans, Barack has proven himself to be light years ahead of his opposition, with strong support of the farm bill, advocacy for corn-based ethanol energy, and interest in investing in infrastructure and rural education. As this article recounts, Barack's friends from fellow corn state Illinois, including state Senator John Sullivan and former Illinois USDA executive Stephen Scates.

("Barns for Obama" like this one, written about in the Toledo Blade here, attest to Barack's visible support in rural areas).

Other issues like these, argues one Ironton man in the letter to the editor here, should also claim importance amongst Second Amendment voters:

If you are an avid hunter and target shooter like me, you should be relieved to know that neither presidential candidate wants to take away your right to enjoy your sport.

Obama and McCain both support the Second Amendment, which gives each of us the right to bear arms. Obama and McCain both have voted against a number of restrictive gun provisions, including the right of the federal government to confiscate firearms during emergencies.

What is interesting is that both candidates have also drawn the ire of the NRA for their support of criminal background checks for purchasers at large gun shows.

However, there are other positions that the candidates have taken that may be important in helping sportsmen decide how to vote this November.

McCain has voted against the Conservation Reserve Program and the Wetlands Reserve Program (Obama co-sponsored) that are strongly supported by Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever.

To my fellow Ohio Sportsmen, the good news is that both Obama and McCain will protect our right to enjoy our sport, so there is not much to choose between on this issue. On the other hand, there are a great number of very important non-sportsman issues, which will decide what kind of world, and country future generations will live in.

There are big differences between the candidates, it just does not have to do with guns.

Are you a hunter who supports Barack? Let us know in the comments section below.

Barack Finds Burgeoning Support in Ohio's Rural Areas

Michael in Ohio — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 11:42:53 EDT

Before this year, no one would have imagined that St. Clairsville, Ohio, would play a role in the Presidential election. But as this article from the Columbus Dispatch shows, with a recent visit from Vice Presidential candidate Senator Joe Biden, they found themselves thrown into the spotlight for not the first time this campaign season. And it's a good thing too, because locals like Matt, featured in a recent article in the Wheeling News-Register, want change:

Martins Ferry resident Matt Myers wants to be able to pay for his son Zack's college education, but he's not sure he will be able to now that he has lost his job as a truck driver.
Tuesday, the father and son joined other local voters for a campaign rally featuring Democratic vice presidential candidate Joe Biden on the campus of Ohio University Eastern, near St. Clairsville.
Matt Myers believes Obama will help grow the economy to provide more jobs for families like his.
"This Bush economy has really put us down, and we need someone like Barack Obama to help get the economy moving in the right direction again," Myers said.
Zack Myers, a senior at Martins Ferry High School, is also worried about the way the national debt continues to escalate.
"I will be paying of Bush's (Iraq) war debts when I get older, and that is just not fair," Myers said.
Another opponent of the war in Iraq is Wheeling resident Matt Bennett.
"With all the money Bush is wasting in Iraq, the government could use that money to help feed the hungry and help the homeless people right here in this country," Bennett said.

Through extensive outreach efforts and a perfectly suited platform on rural issues, it's not uncommon to find outspoken Obama supporters in some of the more remote places in Ohio. Whether they're expressing themselves at their small businesses, or decorating a new Barn for Obama, like in the picture below from Knox County, Ohioans in rural areas are making their voices heard.

Also in Knox County, Carol is one of the ones making her voice heard. She describes how her local crew staked out an Obama presence at the Tomato Festival:

The little town of Fredericktown, Ohio (where I grew up)... population about 1,500, just had it's 32nd Annual Tomato Show Festival and Parade. It's a VERY CONSERVATIVE town, so we didn't know what response we'd get with our Obama presence there...
And we DID HAVE A PRESENCE!!! Over 80 people marched in the parade on behalf of Democratic candidates! Close to 50 of them were for Senator Obama! It was the largest Democratic entry in a parade this county has ever seen.
And, our Obama block-of-marchers were FIRED UP! Two women flanked our group at the front and back and kept the chants going... throughout the entire parade so that apart from the marching bands, we were also the loudest entry in the parade!

The best part was the response we got from people on the sidelines... thousands from all over the county and neighboring counties come to the parade and much to our surprise we received a constant display of "thumbs-up," and CHEERS FOR US! ...as we went marching by! For each positive response from a parade watcher, we had walkers ready with Obama handouts that gave contact information for the local campaign, so hopefully we gathered more volunteers for the work ahead.

Also that day, 30-40 marchers stayed around after the parade to canvass this little community. I spoke with one resident while canvassing--a retired high school teacher I had way-back-when--who said she thought this was the first time this sleepy little (former?) Republican stronghold had EVER been canvassed!

Word has it our rural county of 55,000 is "looking good," for the Obama Camapign, given the numbers we're gathering from the canvassing and phone-banking. Our Obama Field Organizer--Jon--told us the first week he was here, "We CAN win Knox County," and by golly, he's kept us fired up and I think we're going to do it!

With a positive attitude like that, how could a rural county like Knox not go for Obama?

Get involved in your area today. Do you live in a rural community? Click HERE to join Rural Ohioans for Obama.

Sherrod Brown and Ted Strickland Hop on the Rural RV in Eastern Ohio!

Michael in Ohio — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 15:36:44 EDT

Images and words from our intrepid blogger on the road, Stephen, who's travelling with the Rural crew as well as Senator Sherrod Brown and Governor Ted Strickland in the Heartland Change RV. The group was at Dennison today, and is currently stopped in Zanesville:

Approximately 273 college students, professors, and residents of Granville gathered to hear about the Obama Campaign. LaForce Baker, President of Dennisonians for Obama, spoke first and explained how students can get involved and help the campaign by phonebanking, canvassing, and tabling. He then introduced County Commissioner Mark Van Buren who then introduced Sen. Sherrod Brown. Senator Brown explained why Ohio, and students were so important to this election and how Barack is going to fix the economy. He also encouraged students to register to vote in Ohio and to stay in Ohio after graduation. He then introduced the Governor, who added some details to how Sen. Obama would help heal the American and Ohioan economy and encouraged students to get involved.

Once again over 200 people have gathered here in Zanesville right now to hear about the Obama campaign and how Senators Obama and Biden are going to help fix our troubled economy. These Ohioans are concerned about how they're going to pay their bills, keep their jobs, and educate their children. People are having to stand in the back and applause is raucous.
They are hearing from our local Field Organizer Sarah Eckhouse, State Rep. candidate Jennifer Stewart, Congressman Zack Space, Governor Ted Strickland, and Senator Sherrod Brown. People are hungry for change and here in Zanesville, they're getting ready to elect Barack and get the change we need.

Stay up to date with the Heartland Change Tour through Ohio right HERE.

Are you a supporter who lives in a rural area? Join Rural Ohioans for Obama by clicking HERE.

Rural Crew Brings Message of Change in the Heartland to the Farm Science Review, Delaware, and Lima

Michael in Ohio — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 21:41:05 EDT

It was a packed day for the Rural crew, hauling from town after town in the far reaches of Ohio to spread Barack's agenda for the heartland. For anyone who looks at the breakdown of the issues, it's no surprise that Barack is far superior for matters that concern rural Ohioans, but it always helps to have a decked-out RV and some farm experts on hand to get the message across.

First up was the renowned Farm Science Review in London, Ohio, an annual trade show with a plethora of farm equipment and products on display, as well as delicious fresh dairy milkshakes and home-grown beef for sale. Rural Director Doug O'Brien talked shop with local farmers and radio hosts about rural issues and Barack's Plan for the Heartland.

Next were some brief stops in Delaware and Bellefountaine, but O'Brien and friends were greeted by ample enthusiasm and press coverage in Lima. In the picture below, O'Brien chats with locals about Barack's comprehensive plan to take rural America forward.

Lima is a town known for its conservative politics, but with this campaign reaching out to heartland voters like never before--be it through going door-to-door, or talking sound policy--Allen County just might turn blue this year. And having an office with awesome murals and carefully mapped out neighborhood team strategies helps too.

Are you a supporter who lives in a rural area? Click HERE to join Rural Ohioans for Obama.

Albert Lea Tribune: Sen. Barack Obama's campaign listened

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:18:46 EDT

Clinton Meyer of Wells writes in the Albert Lea Tribune about one of the 24 stops on the Minnesota Heartland for Change Tour, which visited 24 communities across Minnesota last week, listening to folks across Greater Minnesota about the issues they're dealing with in their everyday lives.

Last week I heard a whole lot of stuff in St. Paul coming from John McCain, George Bush, and the same ol’ talking heads that back them in Washington. Didn’t hear much different or interesting, just the boilerplate Bush lingo I’ve heard for the eight years since I voted for Bush in 2000.
That was quite the contrast to what I heard from the Barack Obama campaign when they actually came to Austin on Sept. 7 to (gasp!) listen to us and our concerns. It was well worth the trip from home to hear other people with the same concerns as mine.
What a great idea, actually listening to what voters think, instead of listening to the Washington lobbyists who run McCain’s campaign. Obama’s campaign is going around the whole state on what they call the Heartland for Change Listening Tour. I got a chance to talk directly to the campaign at an economic round table at El Mariachi restaurant. We were one of the 24 stops they’re making around the state of Minnesota.
This is exactly the kind of change that we need and that Sen. Barack Obama offers. Sure the campaign talked about Obama’s plans like tax cuts for 95 percent of families and investment in new American energy to create jobs. But they also told me things I hadn’t heard before. Like that Obama was raised by a single mother who was from a small town in Kansas, how her mom and dad helped to raise him, too. They weren’t too well off and had to go paycheck to paycheck. I can relate to someone, especially a president, who has actually had to live through what a lot of “regular” people are going through right now in this economy. Obama has lived it and it shows.
I made a terrible mistake eight years ago and voted for Bush. Then he forgot what he promised and only listened to the lobbyists. Now it’s the same playbook, the same promises from the same people, lead by Bush’s chosen heir, Sen. McCain. I’m done with the same old stuff Bush and McCain have given us the last eight years. It’s time to turn things around with someone who gets it, and who listens to us and has a comprehensive plan, not just trash talk. That’s why I travelled from home to Austin. That’s why I’m going with Obama this election.

Clinton Meyer
Wells

To read more about the Heartland for Change RV Tour, and to see pictures from each of the 24 stops, visit http://mn.barackobama.com/mnheartlandtour.

The Heartland Change Tour Comes to Ohio for Heartland Issues Week!

Michael in Ohio — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:21:36 EDT

The Heartland Change RV will pull through Ohio for a host of exciting events this week, in celebration of Heartland Issues Week! The string of activities criss-crossing the Southeast and Southwestern part of the state will underscore Barack's steadfast support for rural America, most recently articulated in his Plan for the Heartland. Not only has Barack proven himself a friend of farmers with his record on the issues (his support for the Farm Bill and his advocacy for ethanol, for example), but also with the values that he puts first: hard work, responsibility, and government that works with you and not against you.

You can be part of the grassroots support by joining Rural Ohioans for Obama--just click HERE.

Here are some highlights to look forward to in the week to come, with interesting speakers and festivals that shouldn't be missed. Clickable events are available for more information and for RSVP at My.BarackObama.com:

Tuesday: Former Governor of Mississippi Ray Mabus will attend the Farm Science Review and the Obama Rural Issues Forum in London with the Obama campaign's Rural Director, Doug O'Brien.
Wednesday: The Heartland Change RV will pull into Apple Creek in Wayne County, for yet another barn painting.
Thursday: The RV will stake a place at the Farm Science Review in the morning, and the extremely popular Little Brown Jug Race in the afternoon. A tour with American Hunters and Shooters Association President and former NFL star Ray Schoenke is in the works.

(Click here to continue reading)

Picnic Celebrates Another Barn for Obama in Spencerville!

Michael in Ohio — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 01:48:58 EDT

Continuing the “Barns for Obama” effort to show support for Barack Obama in rural parts of Ohio, volunteers will finish the painting of a barn this Thursday in Spencerville. The family who owns the barn will hold a picnic with longtime friend and colleague of Senator Obama’s, former chair of the Illinois Senate Agriculture Committee, Larry Walsh.

You can see the current state of the barn in the picture below. Click it to see the barn painting video that launched Barns for Obama, filmed in Trumbull County.

As a soybean and corn producer himself, Larry Walsh has a farmer’s understanding of agricultural issues. Additionally, Walsh was featured in the video introducton of Senator Obama before he gave his acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention last week in Denver and will be touring rural Ohio Thursday and Friday. Details on the event are below:

Larry Walsh attends “Barns for Obama” painting and picnic
Thursday, September 4th - 5:30 p.m.
Krendl Farm
1095 North St. Marys Road (State Rt. 66)
Spencerville, OH

“Barns for Obama” is another example Barack's growing support in rural parts of the state. Barack has already visited Lima, Marysville, and Marengo, with stops in New Philadelphia and Dillonvale today. Additionally, the campaign has hired former Assistant Director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture Doug O’Brien as Rural Vote Director. Click below to hear a radio interview with Doug on the Buckeye Agricultural Network:

Are you an Obama supporter who lives in a rural area? Fill out this form and join Rural Ohioans for Obama!

Picture Post: Virginia Office Opening

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 08:03:50 EDT

Earlier this week, the Campaign for Change opened an office in Virginia at 327 Chestnut Street.

With nearly 100 people showing up, it is clear that the Iron Range is ready for change. Those in attendance heard from State Rep. Tom Rukavina.

To read local press reports of the office opening, click here.

Here are some photos from the event:

Not from Virginia? Click here to find your local Campaign for Change regional headquarters.

Rounding Up Support in Rural Ohio

Michael in Ohio — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 09:53:25 EDT

Barack's campaign was launched in the heartland of Iowa, where his attention to rural issues helped earn him a caucus win there. Now, the movement continues to thrive in the heartland of Ohio, with programs like Barns for Obama and roundtable discussions with rural community leaders and citizens.

In Utica recently, Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa kicked off the Rural Roundtable Discussions, which aim to underscore the economic challenges in rural Ohio and rural America. Senator Harkin, who is Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee spoke to locals at an implement (tractor) dealership owned by David and Tim, who also operate a dairy and crop farm. Here are some pictures from the event:

Senator Harkin drove home that Barack Obama understands rural Ohio and that his plan for America prioritizes addressing the unique issues that face communities such as Utica. He has a record that proves he will fight for farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. At the discussion, locals shared stories of serving their communities and the need for better access to health care, affordable energy, and quality education, in addition to the basic necessities such as transportation and food.

In sum, Senator Harkin said it best, in voicing his support for Barack:

I’ve lived all my life in rural America. I’m here to bear witness to the fact that Barack Obama gets rural America.

The Campaign That's Everywhere

Michael in Ohio — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 21:58:34 EDT

Beyond all the negativity of the ads, and the furious frenzy of the media coverage, the campaign in Ohio quietly continues to push itself into brand new territory every day--bringing Barack's message to every single county of the state.

But it's in the far off counties where Barack's message is especially pertinent. In the rural heartland of Iowa, for example, is where this campaign took off, way back in January, and the months before. And Barack has never stopped talking about what matters to rural voters like the ones in Ohio. "Rural values," as he says, "are American values." With that in mind, we made the following video:

The video, and word of this campaign's commitment to every single voter in every single community, is rapidly spreading on the internet. Some local Ohio bloggers picked up on it here, and here, and here. And the national news is catching notice too: just check this link and this one too.

And with this, a new project has been launched: Barns for Obama

Barack is putting every part of Ohio on the map. To turn this country around, though, we'll need more than a barn and some paint. You can get involved by writing letters to the editor about Barack's commitment to rural voters--we'll arm you with information--and by volunteering in your area. You can talk to your neighbors on your own time about Barack, even if you live in the most rural of areas.

And if a barn and some paint is right up your alley, click HERE if you want to paint a barn or have your barn painted!

**Do you live in a rural area? Tell us about the issues that are important to you in the comments section below!

Sen. Obama's Letter to FarmFest 2008 Attendees

Xavier Lopez-Ayala — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:39:42 EDT

Today, the campaign released a letter from Barack to the attendees of the 27th Annual Farmfest in Redwood, County, Minnesota.

Read the full letter here:

Sen. Barack Obama - Letter to Farmfest 2008 Attendees

If you're a Rural Minnesotan for Obama, sign up here to get the latest news and updates. Join Rural Minnesotans for Obama today!

Policies for Rural America

Nick Kimball — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 09:51:44 EDT

There's no place quite like Amana, Iowa. It was settled in 1855 by German immigrants seeking religious freedom.

Today, the buildings look much as they did 150 years ago. The enduring look and spirit of this town is a testament to the people who live and work there.

Senator Obama came to Amana last Tuesday after rolling out his his rural policy agenda in Fairfax.

The Festhalle Barn was packed, and the crowd receptive. In a town that has thrived for so long without changing its look, it sure seems like the citizens of Amana are ready for a change in the politics of the country that gave their ancestors the hope of a better life.

Here is some video from the event:

Kudos to Barack on Rural Policy

Jon C — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 14:40:28 EDT

I've already said my piece over on my personal blog, but I'll say it here as well.

Barack's rural plan is an extremely well thought-out plan and is the most comprehensive I've seen in a long time. While other candidates haven't even broached the subject of rural-to-urban flight or the meth problem in rural communities, Barak's plan does.

Kudos to all!

Lifelong Iowa Farmer: Barack is a "unique leader"

Nick Kimball — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:03:05 EDT

Before Barack laid out his rural agenda in Fairfax today, he was introduced by Gary Lamb, an Iowan who has farmed in southeast Tama county for 55 years.

Gary is also a former president of the Iowa Farmers Union. I caught up with him after the event and he shared his thoughts on the state of agriculture today and a little about Barack's rural agenda.

As someone who spent the last 55 years of my life on the seat of a tractor and back of a horse, I’ve seen tremendous changes take place in agriculture – some of it was good and some of it wasn’t.
When the average age of America’s producers is approaching 60 years old, you don’t have to be the brightest bulb in the chandelier to understand you’ve got a serious internal structural problem.
Senator Obama’s economic and rural summit in Tama I think was the basis of his agriculture and rural platform but he’s obviously willing to listen to other suggestions and ideas of how we can strengthen and renew some of our small rural communities and attract business and industry so our sons and daughters can stay in the community where they were born, rather than be forced to leave.

As I mentioned in my previous post, over the summer Barack held a rural issues forum in Adel and a rural policy summit in Tama - in addition to 30 other roundtable discussions that his Rural Advisory Committee held - before he assembled his rural agenda.

Barack fundamentally believes that we must change the way Washington approaches the major issues facing us. And the only way to do that is by listening to real people, like those in Iowa, who are affected by these issues every single day.

Gary continued:

The key to this plan was the rural economic summit he had in Tama. He brought about 100 really knowledgeable people together. These people are the most knowledgeable people not just here in Iowa but they came from several other states as well.
And I think that listening to the needs and concerns of the people who understand it out here is much more beneficial than just listening to some lobbyist in Washington.
So I was really impressed with his ability to listen and learn from the real people who are going through this.

And just in case you think Barack has good ideas, but wonder if he'll be able to get it done, Gary has this to say:

I think Senator Obama is really the only candidate who seems to understand the needs of rural Iowa and rural America – he’s doing an excellent job.
I think we’ve been sent a unique leader who has the ability to lift and unite and really inspire the American people on both sides of the political aisle so we can really solve some of these major issues that confront our nation.

Barack unveils rural agenda in Fairfax, Iowa

Nick Kimball — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 15:19:08 EDT

After hosting a rural issues forum in Adel, IA, and a rural policy summit in Tama, IA, and directing his Rural Advisory Committee to hold more than 30 round table discussions across the state, Barack today unveiled his plan to bring real leadership for rural America.

Sen. Obama’s plan is focused on meeting the challenges facing rural communities and capitalizing on the economic opportunity that exists in rural America – particularly in the renewable energy sector.

Here is a sample of the specific proposals in Barack's rural agenda:

Strong Safety Net for Family Farmers: The lack of effective payment limitations has resulted in federal farm programs financing farm consolidation and the elimination of many mid-size family farms. Obama agrees with Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) that we should implement a $250,000 payment limitation. And Obama will ensure those payments go to farmers who need them – not millionaire farmers who rely on American taxpayers to protect their multi-million dollar profits.

Regulate CAFOs: In the Obama Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency will strictly monitor and regulate pollution from large CAFOs, with fines for those who violate tough air and water quality standards. Obama strongly supports efforts to ensure meaningful local control.

Limit EQIP Funding for CAFOs: Obama supports reinstating a strict cap on the size of the livestock operations that can receive EQIP funding so that the largest polluters have to pay for their own environmental clean up.

Encourage Organic and Sustainable Agriculture: Barack Obama will increase funding for the National Organic Certification Cost-Share Program to help farmers afford the costs of compliance with national organic certification standards. He will also reform the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency’s crop insurance rates so that they do not penalize organic farmers.

Invest in Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency is the fastest, cheapest, most cost-effective method to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and it results in significant savings for our government, economy and consumers. Cost effective energy efficiency should take priority over the construction of new generation facilities. Barack Obama will set a bold national goal of reducing the energy intensity of our economy 50% by 2030.

Develop the Next Generation of Biofuels: As we develop the next generation of biofuels we must be vigilant to ensure that we do in a sustainable fashion so that land and water resources are conserved. Obama will invest federal resources, including tax incentives, cash prizes and government contracts into developing the most promising technologies with the goal of getting the first two billion gallons of cellulosic ethanol into the system by 2013. Obama will also work to improve the national supply of advanced biodiesel. From here the Clean Technologies Deployment Venture Fund will speed the deployment of multiple facilities.

Help Small Businesses Afford Health Care: The rural economy is dependent upon small business, but small employers often struggle to offer health coverage to their employees because it is too expensive. Obama’s plan will help small employers unable to offer health coverage to their employees by allowing small employers to participate in the National Health Insurance Exchange and purchase either a new public plan or a private plan for their employees. Obama’s plan will also provide subsidies for those who need them. Very small businesses will be exempted from the plan’s requirement to pay into the system.

Promote Fairness in Medicare and Medicaid Reimbursement: Medicare and Medicaid funding systems have historically penalized rural areas. In fact, Iowa ranks last among the 50 states in Medicare reimbursement rates. These lower reimbursement rates make it difficult for rural areas to recruit and retain doctors. As president, Obama will work to ensure a more equitable Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement structure.

Bring Doctors, Nurses, and other Health Care Professionals to Rural America: Obama will attract providers to rural America by creating a loan forgiveness program for doctors and nurses who work in underserved rural areas. Additionally, he will encourage the expansion of state-of-the-art health professional online education courses to reach students across rural America.

Support Community Colleges in Fulfilling their Mission in Rural America: Obama will provide funding to community colleges to reevaluate the types of skills and education that are in demand from students and local businesses in support of health careers, renewable energy initiatives, and other ventures to revitalize rural economies. This will lead community colleges to implement new associate degree programs that reflect the increasingly dynamic and technical skills required for rural America to respond to a globalizing workforce.

Partner with Landowners to Conserve Private Lands: Because most rural land is privately-owned, farmers, ranchers, and private landowners are the principle stewards of rural land and water. As a U.S. Senator, Barack Obama has supported conservation programs, such as the Conservation Security Program (CSP), that serve as a resource to farmers and assist them with sustainable environmental planning and best land management practices. As president, Obama will put an unprecedented level of emphasis on the conservation of private lands. He will advance legislation that works with landowners and follows in the tradition of the Wilderness Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Clean Air Act to focus federal attention and increased resources for this key environmental issue. He will also increase funding for CSP and the Conservation Reserve Program and will create additional incentives for private landowners for sustainable agriculture to protect and restore wetlands, grasslands, forests and other wildlife habitat.

Eliminate Income Taxes for Seniors Making Less Than $50,000: Obama will eliminate all income taxation of seniors making less than $50,000 per year. This will provide immediate relief to 22 million American seniors who will not need to file an income tax return, and will eliminate all income taxes for nearly seven million seniors at a savings of roughly $1,400 each year.

Provide Cheaper Prescription Drugs: Iowa seniors on Medicare pay 71 percent more for their drugs than veterans who get their prescriptions through the VA, and 47 percent more than those who buy drugs at Canadian pharmacies. Obama believes that the federal government should negotiate for lower drug prices for seniors in the Medicare program, just as it negotiates to obtain lower prices for our veterans. He also supports efforts to allow seniors to import prescription drugs from Canada.

Click through to the whole post to read about the plan in Barack's own words.

Barack to unveil his rural policy agenda today

Nick Kimball — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 09:16:02 EDT

Today in Fairfax, IA, Barack will unveil his plan to provide real leadership for rural America. After Barack and his Rural Steering Committee held 32 roundtable discussions with rural Americans - two of the most prominent of which were in Adel and Tama - Barack crafted his rural agenda.

We'll have coverage of the roll out here a little later so check back. **Update: here's a link to the plan!**

This picture is from the Adel forum:

And this was Barack in Tama:

Road to Change: Tama Rural Summit

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 14:28:56 EDT

Our latest stop: Tama, Iowa, where Barack is meeting with Iowa farmers to discuss agriculture policy at the Tama Rural Summit.

In conjunction with the Rural Summit, we convened an online virtual summit over the last few days. Anyone could come to our website and submit their ideas and concerns related to the three breakout sessions that summit participants have divided up into - agriculture, energy, and rural economic development and quality of life.

The number issue that the agriculture breakout session identified -- caps on farm subsidies -- was submitted online via the virtual summit. Here's the question:

Many are unaware of how harmful the subsidies that go to Agribusiness are to those who live in developing countries. While subsidies may help Agribusiness in the short term, they pose significant threats to our long-term national interests. What is the best way to restructure agricultural subsidies so that they do not exacerbate poverty abroad, benefit small farmers and not Agribusiness, and reflect a commitment to developing renewable, domestic energy sources? Our domestic agricultural subsidies and priorities are a big part of our national security.

"This breakout session is particularly important," said Barack. "Many of us have concerns about the latest Farm Bill. I think we need a more aggressive cap on payments. I want to make sure I'm listening to all of you to get a strong sense of how you think our policy needs to be directed."

Among those who shared their concerns was Mr. Joe Lyon, who we met with yesterday.

After the summit, Barack met with Joe's wife, Norma "Duffy" Lyon, who presented Barack with the Butter O.

Barack in Iowa

Sam Graham-Felsen — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 18:03:13 EDT

Check out the Iowa HQ blog at Iowa.BarackObama.com for a run-down of Barack's activities this weekend in the Hawkeye State.

On Friday, Barack spoke in Adel on rural issues and the need for farm policy reform.

Today, he spoke in Winterset in front of one of the famous bridges of Madison County.

For more on Barack's trip through Iowa, check out Iowa.BarackObama.com.

Rural issues forum in Adel

Nick Kimball — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 19:13:09 EDT

Today, Barack held an in-depth forum focused on rural issues at the Van Fossen farm in Adel. Beverly Van Fossen, the farm’s owner, introduced Barack. This farm has been in the Van Fossen family for 155 years and is an Iowa Heritage Farm – a special distinction for farms that have been in one family for at least 150 years.

One of the hallmarks of a good leader is the ability to listen. This forum was a great opportunity for Barack to listen to the ideas of people who live and breathe these issues every day of their lives.

Some of the issues that came up were Country of Origin Labeling, farm payment caps (specifically a bill championed by Senator Dorgan and Grassley, which Barack supports) and protections for farmers against things that are out of their control like droughts.

Senator Obama had some of his top rural issues advisors on hand at the forum. That group inclues several Iowans including Mike Dunn from Keokuk (a former undersecretary of agriculture), Gary Lamb of Chelsea (who has farmed for 55 years and served as the president of the Iowa Farmers Union) and Neil Hamilton of Waukee (director of the Agricultural Law Center at Drake University).

Do you have some ideas on rural policy? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

***Update***

Iowa Independent was at the forum, too. Check out their coverage here.