2/4/2010 - New Campaign Director
After three years as Executive Director of the Maine Democratic Party, I will be moving into a new position on March 1. However, I will not be leaving the Maine Democratic Party; rather I will be transitioning to the position of Coordinated Campaign Director. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time as Executive Director and am proud of the growth that has taken place at the MDP as we've transformed into a professional, year-round political organization. I'm eager to begin my new position, where I will be focused on building the Party's grassroots infrastructure and running the Democrats' field and earned media campaign to ensure victory in November of 2010.
We will face many challenges this year, but that's why we are starting this Coordinated Campaign so early. We hope to build on the success of the 2006 and 2008 Coordinated Campaigns and, like those campaigns, Victory 2010 will partner with county Democratic Committees around the state.
Our strategy in 2010 is simple - compete for Democratic votes where ever Democrats live. To accomplish this goal, the campaign will rely more on volunteer leadership than ever before. That's why we have launched the Town Organizer Program. We will recruit a Town Organizer in nearly every town in Maine this winter. Time and training will be invested in these volunteer leaders so that they truly understand how to run a campaign in their community. If you are interested in learning more about this program, please click here to find the Regional Field Director for your county.
Nationally and here in Maine we are seeing the Republicans shift further to the right. They've even begun alienating the moderates within their party by supporting edicts like the so called "purity test", a litmus test the RNC would use to determine the real (read conservative) Republicans from the rest.
While President Obama has repeatedly reached out to Republicans in Congress, their response has simply been "NO". The Party of no ideas, no leadership and no bipartisanship doesn't inspire the confidence of American voters. Clearly, the Republican Party is out of step with the mainstream. In contrast, our Democratic Candidates have an optimistic, yet realistic vision for Maine and our nation. If we work hard to convey this positive message in every county in Maine, I'm confident we can win anywhere in this state.
There is a lot of work to be done over the next eight months and 270 days until Election Day. One thing is for sure, we cannot be successful without your support, input and energy.
Best Wishes,
Arden Manning
Coordinated Campaign Director, Victory 2010
