Progressives Win! Obama Wins. Edwards Second.
Released On: January 3, 2008Democracy for America Lead the Way in Iowa
Des Moines, IA
Democracy for America, our nation's largest progressive political action organization with over 9,000 members in Iowa, has shown their power tonight in Iowa. With the one-two finish of Senator Barack Obama/Senator John Edwards in the Iowa caucus, it is clear that progressive voters are the key constituency in this election. DFA's Unite for a Progressive President Campaign made the difference here in Iowa.
Democracy for America's Unite for a Progressive President Campaign brought together the strengths of the Iowa caucus process and the commitment of DFA members throughout the country. The 675,000 members of DFA gathered tens of thousands signatures on a national call to action, wrote over 6,124 letters to Iowa DFA members, and plastered the Des Moines Register with an ad asking Iowa Democrats to not leave their caucus until a progressive wins their location.
"If you listened to people last year, it was as if there was no need to vote. There was all this talk about inevitability, but, tonight, Democracy for America's members here in Iowa proved that primaries matter, progressive values are what make the Democratic Party strong," said Jim Dean, Chair of DFA.
In sharp contrast to 2004, issues of concern to progressive voters have been front and center in this presidential race. The activism and involvement of progressive Democrats have transformed the Party and fundamentally altered the primary landscape. From universal health care to ending the War in Iraq to global warming, every Democrat in the race has seen the need to take a strong stance. Those Democrats who have taken a stance have seen their support increase among voters.
"Tonight's caucus results are further proof that progressive voters make up the core of the Democratic Party
they are the key constituency in this election. DFA members and progressive Democrats support candidates who fight for progressive values: bringing our troops home from Iraq, expanding universal health care for all Americans, and fighting to end global warming," said Arshad Hasan, Executive Director of DFA.
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