Dorgan Says Economic Stimulus Must Include Rebates for Seniors, Disabled Veterans

Via a press release from Sen. Dorgan's office...

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) --- U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) said the rebate checks that are being proposed as part of Congress’ economic stimulus package must include rebates for senior citizens and disabled veterans. Both were left out of the version of the stimulus package negotiated by the White House and leaders of the U.S. House.

Dorgan said he’ll work to defeat a threatened filibuster against an alternate plan that would include the two groups.

Dorgan said the decision on whether to include seniors is especially important to North Dakota, which has the highest per-capita number of senior citizens over 85 years of age in the nation. The proposal to include seniors would ensure rebate checks go to an estimated 88,000 North Dakotans age 65 and older.

“Many senior citizens live on very low incomes. If we’re going to try to stimulate the economy, it would be wrong to provide rebates to 117 million Americans and leave out some 20 million senior citizens, many of whom would very much need those rebate checks,” Dorgan said.

Because income for disabled veterans is not taxable, the stimulus package that was negotiated by the White House and the U.S. House would not send rebates to them. Dorgan said this would leave 250,000 disabled veterans out of the rebate program. He said many of these veterans also live on a limited income and deserve to be included in the stimulus plan.

Congressman Earl Pomeroy Endorses Barack Obama

Via a news release by the Obama campaign...

BISMARCK – North Dakota's Congressman Earl Pomeroy endorsed Barack Obama today, citing his ability to work with Americans of all ideologies and all parties to get things done.

"Barack Obama reflects the values of the heartland – he has the unique ability to bring people of all ideologies and parties together to make progress," said Congressman Pomeroy. "Senator Obama has broken through the bitter partisanship in Washington to pass reforms that reduced the stranglehold of lobbyists on our legislative process, decreased our dependence on foreign oil by investing in renewable fuels and opened up the doors of our government so that voters could monitor how their tax dollars are being spent. That's why he has generated such great crossover appeal among Republicans and independents, and why he will put our party in the strongest position to win states across the country in November. Change will not come easily, and we need a leader who will stand up to special interests and tell the American people not what they want to hear, but what they need to hear, about the challenges we face. Barack Obama will be that president."

"Congressman Pomeroy has been a powerful advocate in Congress to keep the American dream within reach for middle class families," said Senator Obama. "He believes that instead of subsidizing corporations that ship jobs overseas, we should provide retirement security for families here at home. Earl Pomeroy has achieved progress in Congress not by demonizing Republicans but by working together with members of all parties to find common ground. I'm grateful that he has joined this movement to bring change we can believe in to America."

Earl Pomeroy has served as North Dakota's Congressman since 1992, serving on the powerful Ways and Means and Agriculture Committees. Pomeroy led the fight to pass tax credits to help families save for retirement and he is one of the House's most vocal advocates for family farmers and ranchers. As the Co-Chair of the bipartisan Rural Health Care Coalition, he has worked to ensure that Medicare benefits are fairly distributed across the country.

In North Dakota, Obama has also been endorsed by U.S. Senator Kent Conrad. The Obama campaign is the only Democratic campaign with offices in the state, located in Fargo, Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Minot.

News from Headquarters

This is just a quick reminder about the John Edwards Fargo event. In light of Edwards announcing he will step away from the presidential race yesterday, his Friday event in Fargo has been cancelled.

Obama Endorsement

Congressman Earl Pomeroy has just endorsed presidential candidate Barack Obama on "News and Views" with Ed Schultz. He joins U.S. Sen. Kent Conrad and state Sen. Joel Heitkamp with endorsements for Obama.

Debate Tonight

CNN will be airing a debate between Democratic presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama tonight. It will take place at 7 p.m. CT from Los Angeles, Calif.

Be ready for a spicy duel.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Edwards Fargo Event Update

In light of John Edwards announcing he will step away from the presidential race today, his Friday event in Fargo has been cancelled.

For more information on today's announcement by Edwards, click here.

News from Headquarters

Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards is expected to announce he's dropping out of the race today. I'll keep you posted about the Fargo Edwards event coming up on Friday.

On a different note, former Sen. Tom Daschle, D-S.D, just said on "News and Views" with Ed Schultz that presidential candidate Barack Obama may be coming to North Dakota.

Obama events

Right now, former Sen. Tom Daschle, D-S.D., is stumping for Barack Obama in Grand Forks. The event is being held at Dakota Harvest and will end at 10:15 a.m.

At 11:45 a.m., Daschle will be in Fargo rallying Obama supporters at Babb's Coffee House, 604 Main Ave.

Daschle is a former U.S. Senate majority leader.

Recovery rebates

The U.S. House of Representatives passed its version of an economic stimulus package yesterday. Congressman Earl Pomeroy issued a press release about it.

Here are some quotes:

"Today, the House of Representatives passed unprecedented tax relief for 117 million working families, including 300,000 households in North Dakota. The House acted quickly to pass this much needed help for families facing higher costs for health care, energy, and education. In addition, doubling the amount that small businesses can write off on their taxes for capital investments made during 2008 will encourage businesses in our state to buy new equipment in the coming months," Congressman Pomeroy said.

"I'm pleased that we acted quickly to give "Recovery Rebates" of up to $1,200 to couples and $600 to individuals. When combined with the $300 per child tax credit, a family of four could receive up to $1,800. The Treasury Secretary indicated that these recovery rebate checks could be in the hands of North Dakotans sent as early as mid-May, bringing welcome news to moderate-income and middle-class families. The rebates would pump an additional $300 million into the economy in North Dakota giving it a powerful shot in the arm."

Not too bad, eh?

The U.S. Senate is now in the process of drafting their version.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

John Edwards Visit Rescheduled for Friday

The John Edwards visit to Fargo has been rescheduled for 7:15 p.m. Friday, Feb 1. You're invited to attend. The event will take place at the Labor Temple, 3002 1st Ave. N., Fargo. Click here to RSVP.

The event is free and open to the public.

Originally, the event was slated for Wednesday but was changed because of scheduling.

Daschle to Stump for Obama in N.D.

Former Sen. Tom Daschle, D-S.D., will be in Fargo and Grand Forks tomorrow (Wednesday, Jan. 30) to stump for presidential candidate Barack Obama. Daschle is a former U.S. Senate majority leader.

Here’s the schedule via an Obama campaign press release:

MORNING MEET & GREET WITH DASCHLE IN GRAND FORKS
When: Tomorrow – January 30, 2008 – 9:15am – 10:15am CT
Where: Dakota Harvest - 17 N 3rd St, Grand Forks, ND

AFTERNOON MEET & GREET WITH DASCHLE IN FARGO
When: Tomorrow – January 30, 2008 – 11:45am – 12:45pm CT
Where: Babb's Coffee House - 604 Main Ave, Fargo, ND

News from Headquarters

Wednesday's John Edwards' event in Fargo has been postponed due to a schedule change. The Edwards campaign is saying the candidate will make an appearance in North Dakota toward the end of the week. Stay tuned for further details.

New Obama spot

If you haven't seen it on TV yet, Sen. Kent Conrad is being featured in a new Barack Obama advertisement. It's a 30 second spot. Click here to check it out.

Clinton news conference

North Dakota Hillary Clinton supporters will be holding a news conference at 10:15 a.m. today. The event will take place in the west meeting room of the Fargo Parks Building, 701 Main Ave. Former Gov. George Sinner, Jane Sinner and members of Hillary Clinton's North Dakota Steering Committee will be in attendance.

Don't be late

This is just a quick reminder that many campaign financial disclosure reports are due by Thursday, Jan. 31. Click here for more information.

If the reports aren't in on time, you'll face a fine.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Conrad Featured in New Obama Ad.

Democratic-NPL Releases Presidential Caucus Details

BISMARCK – The North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party has released a list of rules and sites for the upcoming Presidential Preference Caucus on Feb. 5. Over 100 sites have been confirmed so far.

Caucus sites are open from 2 to 8 p.m. Central Time. All interested Democrats are invited to participate in the caucus, which is part of “Super Duper Tuesday” – the single day when the most caucuses and primaries are conducted around the country. Twenty-two states will be holding events.

These caucuses begin the delegate selection process in North Dakota. The state will have 21 delegates attending the national Democratic convention in Denver, Colo. Thirteen of those delegates are pledged and contingent upon caucus results. Seven are super delegates and can choose who to vote for. One is an add-on that is unpledged.

North Dakotans can vote for a Democratic presidential candidate at any Democratic-NPL caucus location in the state on Feb. 5. Voters need to be a resident of North Dakota for at least 30 days prior to Feb. 5 and at least 18 years old to cast ballots. Voters can cast a ballot if they voted for a Democrat in the last general election or plan to in the next general election.

Identification may be requested, but not required. All voters must sign a registration sheet confirming their eligibility to vote.

Voters are allowed to vote for only one candidate. If more than one is chosen, the ballot is void. Anyone who votes in the North Dakota Republican caucus on Feb. 5 is not allowed to vote in the Democratic-NPL caucus.

Click here to see an events list.

Click here for a rules summary.

You can find a North Dakota legislative district map by going to this link:

http://www.legis.nd.gov/assembly/60-2007/maps-new-district/index.html

For more information on the Democratic-NPL Party, go to this link:

http://www.demnpl.com

News from Headquarters

Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards will be traveling to North Dakota for a stop this week. You're invited to attend!

Here are the details:

Wednesday, Jan. 30th at 10:45 a.m. CT

Labor Temple, 3002 1st Ave. N., Fargo

The event is free and open to the public. Click here to RSVP.

Obama events

West Wing star Dule Hill will be visiting North Dakota to rally Barack Obama supporters Tuesday. He’ll be headlining events in Fargo and Grand Forks.

Here are the details:

WHERE: Tabula Coffee House (across from the UND Memorial Union) 3012 University Ave., Grand Forks

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 29 from 5 to 6:15 p.m.

WHERE: NDSU Memorial Union (North Ballroom), Administration Ave. and Centennial Blvd., Fargo

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 29 from 7:45 to 9 p.m.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Dorgan Will Deliver Democrats’ Radio Response to President Saturday Morning

Via a press release from Senator Byron Dorgan's office...

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) --- U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) will deliver the Democratic response Saturday to the President’s weekly radio address. Dorgan’s speech will air at 10:06 AM Central Time on ABC Radio network stations, as well as hundreds of other radio stations nationally.

Both the President and Dorgan, who is Chairman of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, will talk about the economy and the economic stimulus package Congress is developing.

On Friday, Dorgan said it is a “hopeful sign” the President and Congress are working together to get the economy back on track. He said he supports a short term stimulus “but the medicine needed to improve the health of our economy also has to include fixing our trade and budget deficits, and getting regulators to put the brakes on sub-prime mortgage abuses and excessive financial speculation in hedge funds and derivatives that pose a danger to our economy.”

News from Headquarters

I'm sure by now you've read that the North Dakota Republican Party was up to their elbows in alligators regarding Workforce Safety and Insurance last legislative session. Republican legislators have acknowledged secret meetings about agency woes during that time.

If you haven't checked out the allegations, click here to read the 26-page whistle-blower report to the Burleigh County States Attorney.

Also, click here to check out today's story by Forum reporter Patrick Springer.

Here are a few thoughts:

Gov. John Hoeven is the leader of the North Dakota Republican Party. Where was he while top party officials were having secret meetings about WSI last legislative session? Could it be a reason why Hoeven was near silent on this issue last session?

This is a full-fledged scandal. The governor of North Dakota should show leadership. Unfortunately, our governor has fallen way short of that. He ignored WSI's problems for almost one-year and let the agency spiral out of control.

Hoeven's answer to all this is another expensive audit though there have already been three recent audits.

Democratic-NPL legislators proposed over 40 bills that Republican lawmakers killed last legislative session. Many of those bills were aimed at correcting agency problems.

It's now crystal clear that North Dakota Republicans are very involved with WSI. Sounds like an arrogance of power to me. Sounds like a culture of corruption, too.

It's time for new leadership in this state.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

News from Headquarters

I'm not going to beat around the bush here. You need to read the latest blog post by Chet over at NorthDecoder.com.

His revealing report cites some troubling excerpts from a document given to the Burleigh County States Attorney by a Workforce Safety and Insurance whistleblower some time ago. The post describes a meeting between top WSI officials, some Republican legislators and the former North Dakota Republican Party executive director. The meeting was held last April to supposedly discuss agency image troubles and legislative issues.

Click here to read Chet's latest post.

If this whistleblower's assertions are true, it again demonstrates the Republican arrogance of power in North Dakota. Democratic-NPL legislators proposed dozens of bills last legislative session to help correct agency problems. Practically all the legislation was shot down by the Republican-controlled Legislature. Meanwhile, House Republicans voted to give the agency a $50,000 slush fund.

People keep telling me that the Republican-controlled North Dakota government has contributed to this WSI debacle. It's a solid point.

If interested in WSI, a frequent visit to Chet's blog comes highly recommended. He's broke many news stories on it.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Pomeroy Continues Fight to Provide Health Insurance for Low-Income Children

Via Congressman Earl Pomeroy's office...

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Pomeroy today continued the fight to reauthorize the popular state children’s health insurance program (SCHIP). A majority in the House today voted to override the president’s veto of the bill to provide coverage for 10 million low-income children, however enough Republicans voted with the president to sustain his veto of this popular program.

“It is imperative that children have access to preventative care and critical medical services when they need them. This Congress has made providing health insurance for low-income children a top priority,” Congressman Pomeroy said. “I am disappointed that the president has turned a deaf ear to low income families in need, and has made it even harder for them to afford the already high cost of health insurance for their children.

“This legislation was important last year, and it’s even more important this year. As the economy has turned downward, families in North Dakota are finding it harder and harder to make ends meet. The need to provide health insurance to low-income families is more important than ever.”

After the president initially vetoed the bipartisan Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act last year, Congress passed a revised version of the bill that addressed the president’s concerns and would have provided health insurance to 10 million low-income children. This revised package would invest an additional $35 billion in the program, which will continue coverage for 6 million low-income children nationwide and 6,300 in North Dakota, and will extend coverage to 4 million children across the country and 4,900 uninsured North Dakota children. The president again vetoed this bill.

The vote today to override the president’s second veto of the children’s health insurance program passed the House by a bipartisan majority of 260 to 152, however it fell short of the 2/3 majority needed to override the veto.

News from Headquarters

House Democratic-NPL Leader Merle Boucher made a trek across the state yesterday announcing a run for governor. He'll seek the party's endorsement at the state convention April 4. Sen. Tim Mathern has also announced a bid for the post.

Boucher had huge crowds in Fargo and Bismarck and ended the day with a live shot on KFYR-TV in the state Capitol's Memorial Hall. Today, he'll be in Minot for a news conference and also make some stops in Williston. His campaign theme is change.

Here's the press release from yesterday:

Rep. Merle Boucher, D-Rolette, announced a bid to be North Dakota's next governor during stops across the state today. His message: people want change, and he is the candidate to make that happen.

"In the many conversations I've had with North Dakotans, there is a desire for change," Boucher said. "These folks have told me there should be more transparency in government and government policies are made with limited or no input from citizens."

Boucher, 61, cited examples of where the public has lost trust in its government. The Workforce Safety and Insurance melee topped the list. He said substantial change is necessary to assuage the situation.

"I'll extend an invitation to have more participatory involvement in public policy and decision making, more opportunities for public debate and ownership in the final product."

"The change these folks are talking about hasn't necessarily been change in the context that both parties' presidential candidates use as a popular buzz word. North Dakotans speak about a strong desire and need to change our state's current political and civic culture."

Boucher, who is also the Democratic-NPL House of Representatives floor leader, has been a member of the North Dakota Legislature since 1991. He currently serves on these interim legislative committees: Budget and Finance, Budget Section, Legislative Audit and Fiscal Review, Legislative Council, Legislative Management and Tribal and State Relations.

While in the Legislature, Boucher has been a strong advocate for: agriculture, education, Native American issues, renewable energy and veterans.

Boucher currently is a cattle producer. Before venturing in private business and politics, Boucher was a social studies and business high school teacher in Rolette, N.D. He attended North Dakota State University-Bottineau and earned a bachelor's degree from Mayville State University. He is married and has four children.

Change is an appropriate word to use. With two great candidates now in the race for governor, it shows the Democratic-NPL Party is alive and ready to take back the state Capitol.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Story About Boucher Announcement

Via the Bismarck Tribune's Web site...

Boucher to seek Dem endorsement for North Dakota governor
By the Associated Press

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (AP) State House Minority Leader Merle Boucher says he will make another run for governor.

The state representative from Rolette said Tuesday that he will seek the Democratic Party endorsement to run against two-term Republican incumbent Gov. John Hoeven.

Boucher said he believes state government has become complacent.

"What we're looking for across the state of North Dakota is not only a change in a new leader but a change in the way we think,'' he said.

Read on...

Conrad Calls for Economic Stimulus Package

Via a news release from Sen. Kent Conrad's office...

Washington – Senator Kent Conrad today announced his support for a temporary stimulus package in an effort to boost the ailing economy, but urged his colleagues to construct a bipartisan comprehensive package that does not add to the nation’s long-term budget problems.

“There is no doubt that something needs to be done to kick-start America’s economic engine,” Senator Conrad said. “But we must be smart about how we do it. We need a well-designed, targeted plan for economic growth. We need to get our nation’s economy back on track.”

In a hearing today of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Conrad questioned Dr. Peter Orszag, the director of the Congressional Budget Office, about the need for a fiscal stimulus package, the appropriate size of it, and the criteria for designing it effectively.

“We need to focus on measures that will give us the biggest bang for the buck and will flow into the economy rapidly, so that we stimulate the economy when it is needed,” Senator Conrad said. “My preference remains to pay for the cost of any stimulus package over five or ten years so that it does not add to our debt. But our primary concern should be getting stimulus into the economy as quickly as possible.”

Senator Conrad also met today with Jim Nussle, the White House budget director, to discuss an economic stimulus package and its pending impact on the nation’s deficit.

“As long as the stimulus measures are timely, temporary, and well-targeted, we can boost the economy without worsening our structural deficit or undermining our commitment to fiscal discipline,” Senator Conrad said.

Senator Conrad is the Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee. He is also a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, which has jurisdiction over U.S. tax policy.

News from Headquarters

House Democratic-NPL Leader Merle Boucher is announcing his intentions regarding a bid for governor today in Bismarck, Fargo and Grand Forks and Wednesday in Minot.

Announcement event details:

Tuesday, Jan. 22

-9 a.m. in Grand Forks - UND Memorial Union (Memorial Room), 2901 University Ave.

-11:45 a.m. in Fargo - Fargo Parks Main Ave. Depot Building (West Meeting Room), 701 Main Ave.

-4 p.m. in Bismarck - Kennedy Memorial Center, 1902 E. Divide Ave.

-5 p.m. in Bismarck - Reception following news conference at the Kennedy Memorial Center

Wednesday, Jan. 23

-10 a.m. in Minot - Minot Public Library (Small Meeting Room), 516 2nd Ave. S.W.

If able, come out and show your support. He sure would like to see you along the campaign trail today and tomorrow.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Dorgan Offers Ideas for Economic Stimulus

Via a news release from Senator Byron Dorgan's office...

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) --- U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) is sending President Bush and congressional leaders suggestions for the economic stimulus package the President and Congress will develop in the coming weeks. Dorgan says such a package is needed to provide an immediate boost to the struggling economy. He said it is important that it is temporary, targets middle and low income Americans, and encourages business investment.

“Recent economic data show that job growth has already slowed to a near standstill, the unemployment rate has jumped, the trade deficit has hit a 24-month high, oil prices are way up and retail sales are the worst in years. It’s no surprise that consumer confidence has plummeted,” Dorgan wrote in a letter to the President Friday.

Dorgan said his proposals could help stimulate the economy without making the nation’s long term fiscal challenges worse.

Among Dorgan’s suggestions:

1. Tax rebates for middle and low income taxpayers. Past tax rebates left out many moderate and low income Americans who pay substantial payroll taxes, but little or no federal income tax, Dorgan noted. Providing a tax rebate to these Americans, Dorgan said, would be more equitable and a more effective way of putting money into the hands of those most likely to put it back into the economy by spending it.

2. Extend unemployment insurance benefits. Extending unemployment insurance benefits not only recognizes the reality of a tough job market in a sagging economy and provides “critically important” assistance, but would put stimulus money in the hands of families who will spend it.

3. 15 percent temporary investment tax credit. Noting that manufacturers and producers are likely to delay equipment and machinery purchases in a sluggish economy, a temporary 15 percent investment credit through September 30, 2008, would encourage them to buy that equipment now, providing new economic activity.

4. Enhanced depreciation and increased expensing. Allowing more rapid write offs of business investments would also encourage businesses to buy new machinery and equipment. For small business owners on rural Main Streets, it would also provide financial incentives to make storefront and other structural improvements.

Dorgan said he looks forward to working together with the President and other congressional leaders in a bipartisan manner to assemble a “temporary but potent stimulus package that strengthens our economy now, when it is really needed.”

Mathern Takes Lead on Energy Issues in North Dakota

FARGO – When Sen. Tim Mathern was growing up, his family grew wheat and raised cattle. Today, he says farmers could also grow switchgrass and raise wind towers.

"The future of energy in North Dakota has many options,” Mathern said. “As governor, I would provide positive, bold leadership in energy development."

He outlined four areas where he would provide strong leadership:

1. Develop and implement production of biofuel, wind, and solar energy.

2. Steward the use of our oil, natural gas and coal resources.

3. Work regionally to meet our energy potential and challenges.

4. Conserve energy and reduce costs.

His well-known proposal for building an oil refinery in North Dakota is included among his ideas for the future of energy in North Dakota.

“Many fine organizations and talented individuals are working on energy issues in North Dakota,” Mathern said. “Each offers solutions to make this all possible.”

Senator Mathern has served in the legislature since 1986. He grew up on a farm near Edgeley, North Dakota. His home has a geothermal heating and cooling system.

News from Headquarters

This is just a reminder that the Democratic-NPL Party has released a list of sites for the upcoming Presidential Preference Caucus. Over 100 sites have been confirmed so far.

Caucus sites are open from 2 to 8 p.m. Central Time. All interested Democrats are invited to participate in the caucus, which is part of "Super Tuesday" - the single day when the most caucuses and primaries are conducted around the country. Twenty-two states will be holding events.

These caucuses begin the delegate selection process in North Dakota, which will ultimately lead to the selection of North Dakota's Democratic nominee for president of the United States.

The state has 21 delegates to the national Democratic convention in Denver. Fourteen of those delegates are pledged and contingent upon the caucus. Seven are super delegates and can choose who to vote for.

North Dakotans can vote for a Democratic presidential candidate at any Democratic caucus location in the state on Feb. 5. Voters can cast a ballot if they voted for a Democrat in the last general election or plan to in the next general election. Voters need to be a resident of North Dakota for at least 30 days prior to Feb. 5. Anyone who votes in the North Dakota Republican caucus on Feb. 5 is not allowed to vote in the Democratic-NPL caucus. Identification may be requested, but not required. All voters must sign a registration/sign-in sheet/oath confirming their eligibility to vote. Voters are allowed to vote for only one candidate. If more than one is chosen, the ballot is void.

Click here to see the list of polling locations. Click here to see a legislative district map.

A warm up

The District 46 Democratic-NPL will be holding a "Chili Chow Down" on Saturday, Jan. 19 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The event will be held at the Senior Center in the new Carlson Library, 2801 32nd Ave. S.

Sen. Tim Mathern, D-Fargo, and other candidates will be in attendance.

All are welcome, and free will donations will be accepted.

For more information email: pearce@cableone.net or call (701) 232-7112.

Legislative District 46 covers much of southeast Fargo.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Edwards Supporters Bring Fight for the Middle Class to North Dakota

Via the Edwards campaign...

Bismarck, North Dakota – Today, John Edwards for President supporters held a press conference in Bismarck, North Dakota in conjunction with the campaign’s three-day coast to coast tour. During the tour, Edwards will visit Nevada, Missouri, Oklahoma, Georgia, California, and his native state of South Carolina to demonstrate his broad, coast to coast strength and his advantage as the best candidate to win the general election. In North Dakota, supporters announced new organizing efforts on behalf of Edwards, and unveiled the endorsements of State Senator Jim Pomeroy, State Representative Bill Amerman and Democratic-NPL Party Secretary Joanne Beckman.

At the press conference, North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson, State Senator Tracy Potter, and Democratic State Party Treasurer Tim Purdon announced that the campaign will work closely with union supporters, including Steelworkers and Carpenters locals, to reach out to working families and turn out members to vote for Edwards. Edwards enjoys strong grassroots support in the state, including the support more than 2,500 union members across North Dakota, which is an important bloc of support given that 10,500 people voted in the North Dakota’s Democratic Caucus in 2004. In the past two years, Edwards has visited North Dakota to meet with labor and rural community leaders, and campaign for local Democratic officials.

Edwards has also won the support of dozens of Democratic elected officials and party leaders from every region of the state including Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson, State Senate Democratic Leader David O'Connell, and State House Democratic Leader Merle Boucher. Edwards also enjoys the support of a majority of Democrats in both the House and Senate in North Dakota.

Read on...

News from Headquarters

Mortgage crisis and recession are two terms tossed around frequently these days. Not surprisingly, a new Reuters/Zogby poll found the national economy is on peoples' minds. So much so that it has become the nation's top political issue.

Here are a few excerpts from an article regarding the poll:

The survey also found that barely more than one in five gave President George W. Bush's administration high marks for economic policy, and many voters thought they would be better off financially with a Democrat in the White House.

When asked which presidential candidate would be best for respondents' financial situation, 20.1 percent said New York Democratic Sen. Hillary Clinton, making her the top vote-getter. Some 17.5 percent were unsure, and 13.6 percent chose Illinois Sen. Barack Obama, another Democrat.

Arizona Sen. John McCain led Republicans with just 10.9 percent of the vote, followed by former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney at 8 percent. Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani trailed well behind with 3.8 percent of the vote.

Later on, the article says:

Economic research shows that the incumbent party typically loses the presidential election when the economy slips into recession during an election year.

That's reason enough not to vote Republican in the 2008 election.

Here's a good analysis from a DNC press release titled "Republican Hopefuls Offer a Third Bush Term on the Economy: NO THANKS!"

Years of neglect on the part of Bush Republicans have left our economy sagging and America on the verge of a recession. With health care and energy costs skyrocketing, wages stagnating, and unemployment at its highest rate in years, American families have been feeling the strain Republicans have put on their pocketbooks. It's no surprise, then, that the economy is now the top issue for both Democratic and Republican voters. [Washington Post- ABC News Poll released 1/14/08]

As voters examine the McCain, Romney, Huckabee and Giuliani records on the economy, they won't like what they see. While all the Democratic candidates are focused on giving America's families much needed relief, the Republican presidential candidates are offering a third Bush term on the economy. From reckless spending to turning record surpluses into record deficits to tax cuts for only the wealthiest Americans, Bush Republicans have implemented policies that have left our economy weaker and America's working families worse off. Voters have already rejected these disastrous policies and know that quite literally, we can't afford another Republican president to handle the economy.

This link will send you to some research on the economic policies of McCain, Romney, Huckabee and Giuliani. You'll have to scroll down a little. It's interesting stuff.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Bergian Announces Candidacy for North Dakota Public Service Commission

BISMARCK - Increasing energy costs are affecting every resident of North Dakota, says Cheryl Bergian (BEAR-zhan), who announced her candidacy for Public Service Commission today on the Democratic-NPL ticket today.

“The Public Service Commission protects the public interest in regulating utilities, mining companies, and licensees, and should be the voice of the consumers in North Dakota in our era of steadily increasing energy costs,” Bergian said.

The Public Service Commission has responsibility for siting new energy production facilities, including wind farms and power plants, as well as siting electric transmission lines and oil pipelines.

“We need to have a Public Service Commission that exercises strong oversight of energy development in the state to make sure that the interests of North Dakota consumers are being protected.”

And, the problems with railroads are an additional concern.

“Family farmers have had continuing problems in obtaining fair shipping rates from the railroads which ship farm products, and our communities are being threatened by railroad safety issues.”

“I will work with Sens. Kent Conrad and Byron Dorgan, and Rep. Earl Pomeroy to ensure that North Dakota farmers receive a fair shipping rate from the railroads which serve the state. And, I will work with them to ensure that our communities, large and small, are protected from hazardous materials and damage from derailments.”

About 80 percent of the grain shipped out of North Dakota is shipped on one railroad company, BNSF.

“Our ‘captive shippers’ deserve a strong voice in ending the unfair shipping rates that have been imposed.”

A derailment, in which anhydrous ammonia was spilled in Minot in January, 2002, killed one person and injured thousands. Legal recourse for those injured has been extremely slow, although Canadian Pacific Railway admitted liability for those injured.

“We need a strong voice in the Public Service Commission to anticipate and work to prevent more injuries in our state from railroad derailments. We need to address this at the state level, when we have monopolies like the railroads operating in our state.”

Bergian brings nonprofit business and law experience to the Public Service Commission. Graduating in the top 10 percent of her class from the University of North Dakota School of Law in 1988, she now serves as the Executive Director of the North Dakota Human Rights Coalition. Her focus of practice for 14 years with Legal Services programs in North Dakota and Minnesota was in the area of administrative law. She has taught as a Visiting Clinical Instructor at the University of North Dakota School of Law and as an Adjunct Professor at Minnesota State University-Moorhead.

She has been active as a community leader, serving as the chair of the Fargo Human Relations Commission, president of the League of Women Voters of the Red River Valley, president of Quota International of Fargo/Moorhead and president of her church board.

KFYR TV Explains Caucus vs. Primary

Via KFYR TV's Web site...

Caucuses Vs. Primaries
Brandi Powell, KFYR TV

In three weeks you can cast your ballot on who you think should represent your party for President in the November election. Caucuses for both major parties will be held on February 5, and they`re noticeably different than a primary.

There`s some legislative history behind North Dakota`s decision to hold caucuses instead of primaries. It`s evolved over the last decade or so, and there wasn`t much opposition to the change.

Who runs primaries and caucuses, how they`re funded and what your experience is like when you vote, is different. In a primary you walk in, cast your ballot and leave. You won`t be persuaded. But caucuses are different. Your preferred party wants you to participate in discussion on candidates and issues. Meaning primaries are run by the state, and paid for by the state, through your taxpayer dollars.

But the 1995 legislature changed all of that. The first year North Dakotans had a voice in who they wanted to be president, in February, was 1996.

That year, Legislative Council says 73,000 North Dakotans participated in what was called a Presidential Preference Primary. The next pivotal year was 2000. It was the first time a caucus system was used.

Read on...

News from Headquarters

Today, Cheryl Bergian will formally announce her intentions regarding a race for Public Service Commission at press conferences in Bismarck and Minot. Tomorrow, she will announce in Fargo.

Come out and cheer her on!

Here are the press conference details:

When:

Wednesday, Jan. 16 at 11 a.m. in Bismarck and 2 p.m. in Minot

Thursday, Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. in Fargo

Where:

Bismarck: Kennedy Memorial Center, 1902 E. Divide Ave.

Minot: Minot Public Library (Small Meeting Room), 516 2nd Ave. S.W.

Fargo: Fargo Parks Downtown Depot Building (West Meeting Room), 701 Main Ave.

As you probably remember, Bergian almost won a PSC post in 2006. It was very close.

The Public Service Commission regulates elevators, mining, railroads and utilities in North Dakota. There are three commissioners who are elected to six-year terms.

Stay tuned - there may be more statewide candidate announcements soon!

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Editorial by Oil Refinery Task Force Chairs

Via the Jamestown Sun's Web site...

North Dakota should consider options for new oil refinery
Reps. Kenton Onstad and Shirley Meyer; Parshall and Dickinson
The Jamestown Sun

With highly successful new developments in North Dakota oil production, it makes good sense to explore all options regarding a new refinery here. We have formed a task force to do so.

Currently, North Dakota produces more oil than it refines — more than twice, in fact. There is only one refinery in the state, located in Mandan. Keeping more of this resource here could create many positive opportunities for our state. It could also help mitigate high fuel costs.

One possible option is that the state could invest in such a venture. This refinery could be fully state-vested or built as a private/public partnership. North Dakota has a very successful state-owned bank and mill. In this time of new North Dakota oil discovery and high national energy demands, a state-invested refinery could have similar results. Facility construction, maintenance and operation would create good-paying jobs. Revenue garnered from refining could be placed in the state’s general fund like the other state-owned businesses.

In addition, we are looking at more options. Further incentives for a fully private refinery like the Mandan facility will be analyzed, too.

During last harvest season, a fuel shortage plagued many of our farmers. At that time, North Dakotans were paying the highest fuel prices in the continental United States. Another oil refinery here could have helped the situation.

Right now, an additional refinery could also help lessen the $3 per gallon gas we’re paying.

Presently, our state is seeing frequent new oil discoveries. Drilling rigs have been popping up all across western North Dakota. Experts have said the Bakken Shale Formation, which partially covers western North Dakota, holds tremendous amounts of petroleum. The product being pumped out of current Bakken wells is high quality sweet crude – greatly prized by refiners.

Also, the Williston Basin is only 30 to 40 percent developed compared to Texas. There’s much oil in that area, too.

Our country’s appetite for energy will continue to balloon. North Dakota will have tremendous future opportunities to provide forms of energy which will drive our economy. There has not been a domestic refinery built in nearly 30 years. A new North Dakota refinery would help reduce America’s dependence on foreign energy. Currently, our country imports two-thirds of its energy. We also use one-fifth of the world’s oil, 21 million barrels a day. Much of this petroleum comes from unstable portions of the world.

With the highly successful new developments in North Dakota oil production, discussion about a new North Dakota oil refinery just makes good sense. This facility could benefit our state and country. Our task force will look at all options regarding this venture.

(Onstad and Meyer are Democrats who represent District 4 and District 36 respectively in the North Dakota Legislature)

Quick link...

News from Headquarters

We've posted the list of Presidential Preference Caucus sites and rules on our Web site. Click here to see the events list. Click here to see the rules summary.

We are hoping for record turnout at these events. People are fired up and ready to go for the 2008 Democratic-NPL caucuses!

Marketplace for Entrepreneurs

Marketplace for Entrepreneurs starts today. Sen. Kent Conrad and Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson are the organizing sponsors. The event will be held thru tomorrow at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks.

If you're interested in North Dakota business, you should attend. There's even a talent search.

Here's a message from the sponsors:

Marketplace 2008 is focused on how new innovations in energy will restructure American agriculture and transform the economic landscape of our state. We are exploring emerging economic opportunities in North Dakota, including innovative ways to "grow" our energy and make our nation more energy independent.

To learn more about this great event, click here.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Minot Daily News Gives Nod to State-Invested Refinery

Via the Minot Daily News' Web site...

A state refinery? Why not?
Jim Eykyn, Publisher; Bryan L. Obenchain, Editor

If there was ever at time for North Dakota to consider building a state-owned oil refinery, now would seem to be the appropriate time.

With oil drilling and exploration exploding in the western part of the state, some state legislators and Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson have formed a task force to explore that possibility.

Critics will say the state has no business being in competition with private enterprise. But there is already precedent for that in the state. North Dakota already has a state bank and a state flour mill. The State Bank of North Dakota supplies $60 million toward the state’s current two-year budget, while the state mill adds $5 million. How much could a state-owned oil refinery add to the state’s coffers?

Read on...

Two Upcoming Events

Marketplace for Entrepreneurs is just around the corner. Sen. Kent Conrad and Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson are the organizing sponsors. The event will be held Jan. 15-16 at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks.

If you’re interested in North Dakota business, you should attend. There’s even a talent search.

Here’s a message from the sponsors:

Marketplace 2008 is focused on how new innovations in energy will restructure American agriculture and transform the economic landscape of our state. We are exploring emerging economic opportunities in North Dakota, including innovative ways to "grow" our energy and make our nation more energy independent.

To learn more about this great event, click here.

Bismarck and GF Obama Office Grand Openings

Barack Obama’s North Dakota campaign is holding two office grand openings at 1:30 p.m. Saturday. In Bismarck, the location is: 311 E. Thayer St. Suite #119. In Grand Forks, the location is: 317 1/2 Kittson Ave. Click here to sign up for the Bismarck event. Click here to sign up for the Grand Forks event.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director

Jamie Selzler's News from Headquarters

This week has been a great one for Democrats in North Dakota!

First, we had our most successful Century Club event ever last night in Bismarck. When all the checks are counted, we'll have raised well over $10,000 in just a few short hours! On behalf of Chairman David Strauss and the entire State Party, I'd like to thank Tim Purdon, our Party Treasurer, and his wife Carmen Miller for hosting this great event. Tim and Carmen organize, host and provide the hospitality for this annual event, which continues to grow every year. This is the cornerstone of our in-state fundraising strategy that we build on for the rest of the year, and Tim and Carmen make it happen.

This week also saw a great District meeting in District 10, which I was able to attend along with House Dem-NPL Leader Merle Boucher. It was very well attended, and the District is very excited to take back 3 seats up there in the northeast corner of the state. District 10 is one of our top targets for picking up legislative seats, and I have no doubt that the group I visited with this week is going to work hard to make that vision a reality.

The Republican Leader in the State House is doing a few press conferences around the state today to discuss the issues relating to Workforce Safety & Insurance, and what he can do to resolve them. Regardless of what Mr. Berg says today, he and his Republican colleagues in the State Legislature can't hide from the fact that they helped make the problems there happen. When they had the opportunity to bring some accountability to WSI, they refused to do so and left Dem-NPL legislators to fight the battle. Voters will not forget the Republican role in WSI when heading to the ballot box this year.

To a happy and healthy New Year,

Jamie Selzler, Executive Director

P.S. I brought a friend to the Century Club event last night, and afterwards she pointed out that everyone there had something in common: we were all very excited about this campaign season. If you're excited to take back state offices and the ND Legislature, I encourage you to join or renew your membership in the Century Club today. You can do so here.

State-Invested Oil Refinery Task Force Announced

BISMARCK – Two Democratic-NPL legislators and a petroleum industry expert announced a task force to explore the idea of a state-invested refinery at a news conference in the state Capitol today.

“With the recent developments in the Bakken Shale Formation, North Dakota now produces much more crude oil than it refines,” said group co-chair Rep. Kenton Onstad, D-Parshall. “If the state chose to invest in a refinery, it would substantially profit and fuel costs could be dramatically reduced here.”

North Dakota has often ranked highest in the continental United States for fuel prices. Onstad pointed out that since North Dakotans drive long distances and winters are cold, consumer costs have skyrocketed.

Committee co-chair Rep. Shirley Meyer, D-Dickinson, shared Onstad’s comments.

“I live in oil country and think this would be a wonderful project to utilize the state’s resources in a way that helps our citizens in a long-term manner,” Meyer said. “The benefits for our state could be enormous, and it would bring relief to consumers. Facility construction, maintenance and operation would create good-paying jobs.”

Minot State University professor Dr. Frank Moseley said he has years of experience in the petroleum business and believes North Dakota has huge potential.

“The oil being extracted from the Bakken Formation is sweet crude,” Moseley said. “It’s highly prized by refineries, and it’s a fact the Williston Basin is only 30 to 40 percent developed compared to Texas oil fields.”

Other members of the task force include: Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson, Sen. Aaron Krauter, D-Regent; Sen. Tim Mathern, D-Fargo; Rep. Rod Froelich, D-Selfridge and Rep. Pam Gulleson, D-Rutland.

Other points emphasized at the news conference today include:

-The state also owns a successful bank and mill.

-A state invested refinery would help lower our dependence on foreign sources of energy.

-If built, the refinery would be environmentally sound.

News from Headquarters

The next Century Club reception will take place at 5:30 p.m. today at the home of Tim Purdon and Carmen Miller, 1243 E. Highland Acres Rd., Bismarck.

Congressman Earl Pomeroy will be the honored guest.

To RSVP, please contact Kathi at Democratic-NPL Headquarters: (701) 255-0460 or kathi@demnpl.com.

Checks can be brought to the event or mailed to: Democratic-NPL Headquarters, 1902 E. Divide Ave., Bismarck, ND 58501.

Come for good conversation and a chance to meet with Congressman Pomeroy. The crowd is always huge at Tim and Carmen's house, which is partly due to Carmen's great food.

The Century Club is the financial backbone of the North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party. Through Century Club memberships, we are able to combine resources of thousands of Democrats to be used for legislative and statewide elections, grassroots party building and research operations at state headquarters.

Upcoming District 16 fundraiser

A Democratic-NPL event taking place from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. this Sunday in Grafton promises to be a lot of fun.

It's a kick off to Grafton Democratic-NPL Sen. Harvey Tallackson's re-election. Rep. Ben Vig, D-Aneta, will also be attending. The honored guest will be Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson.

It will take place at the Grafton Curling Club, 31 E. 7th St.

The cost will be $20 per person and includes a spaghetti dinner.

-Rick Gion, Communications Director