Amherst Times

Friends:I just wanted to drop you a note to update you on the campaign.We made some terrific progress over the last three months.  For instance, just three weeks ago our opponent, Tom Reynolds, announced that he would not seek re-election.  This makes NY-26 an open seat and one of the most watched races in the nation.   The Cook Report, a non-partisan independent political analyst, listed our race as a “toss up.”  Even conservative pundit Robert Novak said NY-26 is a “lean Democratic takeover” due to a sagging economy, Republican recruiting failures, and a strong Democratic Candidate.We have been working hard, building support, and meeting voters and have a huge advantage with our grassroots organization.  Our Powers Platoon had some major accomplishments this past quarter:

• We are talking with everyday voters and having a conversation that no other candidate in this race is having.
• We kicked off 2008 by accomplishing 30 house parties in 30 days all over the district and had a great reception.
• We are the endorsed candidate in 6 of the 7 counties. 
• We are the only candidate in the race with the endorsement of organized labor.
• We are growing the size of Club 26 every day. 
• We had 37 new members join the Powers Platoon through Club 26 in the month of March.  I appreciate your dedication and look forward to our conference calls to hear your thoughts on New York’s 26th District and what is going on in Washington, D.C.
• We are the only candidate with a grassroots campaign  that is reaching out to voters.  In one day, we hit over 1,200 doors with over 50 volunteers in 20 degree weather.  We are anticipating an even better response now that spring is here in Western New York.  I will provide you with updates throughout April on our progress.
• We are going to report incredibly strong numbers with our financial filing this quarter and I will send you an update soon. 

Your support has been critical to our success this quarter, but the work is just underway.  Over the next quarter we need your help, knocking on doors, hosting house parties, and enlisting new members of the Powers Platoon.  This is a very exciting time in Western New York as the eyes of the nation are on our race.  I am honored to be a part of it and to have your support.  We are in this together and, together, we have the power to change Washington.  Sincerely,
Jon