As we Kossacks know, the cost of the Iraq war has gone through the roof - in terms of dollars, American and Iraqi lives lost, and wounded servicemembers, among many other statistics. Furthermore, with the money that has gone to fight this catastrophic war,  millions of children could have been insured, or thousands of schools could have been built.

The National Priorities Project has released a two-page PDF document detailing the cost of the war to the state of Michigan as a whole as well as to each Congressional District.

As you know, I was a candidate for Chair of the 4th District Congressional Committee.  That election was decided yesterday at the convention.

I would like to thank my supporters and once again congratulate Bob Donoghue on his victory.  Bob conducted himself with true class during this election, and I hope that all of our counties will now unite behind him and the rest of our committee.

I would also like to recognize the conduct of the participants in the caucus election.  People treated each other with respect, and the nomination and election processes were open and fair.  Our county chairs were allowed to openly discuss their concerns about how the Unity Slate was created.  I am proud of this process and would like to now share three ideas on how to further add to the integrity of our district elections.

When I launched my campaign on January 30, I shared with you my purpose in running for Chair of the 4th District Congressional Committee:  to win the congressional election in 2008.  This purpose has shaped my vision for the committee and plan for the district. 

The information I am presenting here is an outline for that plan.  Specifics of each item will be available at the convention.

Fundraising:

*Develop a vehicle for Internet donations. 

*Cultivate a diversified range of donors who can provide different amounts at different times.

*Develop new events that will generate funds and publicity

*Study the feasibility of direct mail and telephone fundraising

*Encourage small, recurring donations, similar to Democracy Bonds

On January 30, I announced my candidacy for Chair of the 4th District Congressional Committee.  Since then I have had the pleasure of talking with many of you about my plan for the district.  I have also learned a great deal about your hopes and goals for the committee.  Because I cannot possibly speak to everyone before the caucus, I would like to take a moment to address some of the more common questions here.  

My slate is the Victory Slate ... a name which reflects my intentions for the 2008 congressional election.  I have not filled the entire slate, because I do not believe it is proper for me to choose the representation for our entire district.  I trust the people of the 4th district to elect their preferred vice chairs and delegates, and I will work with anyone who is elected.  

Fellow Democrats,

I am pleased to announce that I am running for chair of the 4th District Congressional Committee.  I am doing this because I believe that the 4th District Democrats can win the next congressional election.  I am asking for your support, your vote, and your counsel.

Before I go on, I would like to recognize our current chair, Julie Nelson.  Michigan’s 4th district is one of the largest in the nation.  It spans from mid to northern Michigan, and includes 14 counties, each with unique challenges and needs.  Julie has served this district for the past 2 years; her time and efforts have earned our appreciation.

This is an important position, and I would like you to know exactly who you are voting for: