2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

New Chris Dodd TV Ad: "View From the Shop"

New Chris Dodd Ad: "View From the Shop"

One of two new ads going on the air today...

Chris Dodd At Tonight's Debate At Drexel University

DODD SHINES AT DEBATE: LEADERSHIP, RECORD OF RESULTS STRONGEST IN THE FIELD

Philadelphia, PA - At tonight's debate at Drexel University, Presidential candidate Chris Dodd demonstrated that he has both a long record of achieving results and an unrivaled ability to lead on the issues most pressing to our nation today.   In addition to highlighting his proposals to curb the harmful effects of global warming and bring a responsible end to the Iraq war, Dodd also spoke passionately about the need for bold leadership and bringing people together, as well as the importance of electability when choosing a Democratic nominee.

"Whether it's fair or not fair, the fact of the matter is that when it comes to my colleague from New York, Senator Clinton, 50 percent of the American public say they are not going to vote for her. We, as a party, certainly have to take that into consideration," said Dodd.  "For 26 years I have been involved in every landmark piece of legislation and had a Republican as my co-sponsor because no one party is going to straighten all of this out.  I knew in order to move our country forward we had to have leadership in this country that understood the value of reaching out and finding common ground with people. So electability and the ability to govern and to do so immediately are important. Don't discount the importance of electability - it's a very important hurdle for us."

A senior Democrat on the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, Dodd has been involved in virtually every foreign policy debate over the past two decades.   His diplomacy skills and experience in foreign affairs were on display at tonight's debate, where he distinguished himself from the field in his belief that we should not give the Administration carte-blanche to use military force in Iran.

"It was a moment (the Kyl-Lieberman vote), it was a critical moment when I think leadership is called for.  If you're going to seek the leadership of our country, this is the most serious time in a generation.  You have an ascending China, you have an Iran that's ambitious to develop nuclear weapons, you have obviously a four trillion dollar economy that's in trouble, a health care crisis in this country, as well as energy and other issues that are going to confront the next President.  Good judgment and leadership in critical moments must be a part of this debate and discussion.  That was a critical moment and the wrong decision was made in my view."

"Whether its his leadership on the Kyl-Lieberman amendment, global warming, health care, or restoring the Constitution, Chris Dodd unequivocally stands up for what is right for Americans," said Dodd Campaign Manager Sheryl Cohen.  "And sure enough, the rest of the Democratic field always seems to follow Dodd's lead.  That is the type of leadership and the set of values that we need in the executive office.   Backed by a 26 year record of getting results for the American people in the Senate, Chris Dodd's candidacy is the strongest in the field."

Dodd Campaign Unveils New Televison Ad Entitled "Jim's"

DODD CAMPAIGN UNVEILS NEW TELEVISION AD HIGHLIGHTING DODD'S ABILITY TO GET RESULTS AS PRESIDENT
Winterset, Iowa Barber Shop Serves As Setting

WASHINGTON, DC - Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd today announced today that his campaign will begin running a new ad entitled "Jim's," highlighting his ability to achieve results as President.  The ad points to Dodd's success in helping resolve conflict in Northern Ireland and Central America and authoring and passing the Family and Medical Leave Act.

The 60-second spot will run in Iowa and on national cable networks and introduces John and Jesse, two barbers at Jim's barbershop in Winterset, Iowa, where the ad was shot. 

"People across America, including Iowa, are frustrated with their leaders promising change, but failing to achieve any real results," said campaign manager Sheryl Cohen. "Sen. Dodd has 26 years of proven leadership and results to run on in this race, and that's what he's doing. From international affairs to key domestic issues, Sen. Dodd has not been just fighting, but fighting and winning, and that's the kind of leadership he'll bring to the White House."

In addition to the Senate Central America Negotiations Group, led by Sen. Dodd, which was created to monitor the progress of the Guatemala City Accord, Sen. Dodd also worked to increase human rights protections and sought a cease-fire in El Salvador. Sen. Dodd helped facilitate the Good Friday Peace Accords, which helped bring peace to Northern Ireland and Ireland.

Domestically, Dodd authored the Family and Medical Leave Act and fought for seven years, overcoming two presidential vetoes, until it finally became law. Since this landmark bill was enacted in 1993, an estimated 50 million workers have taken advantage of the program, allowing them to care for a loved one without fear of losing the job they need.

The ad also highlights Dodd's ability to reach across the aisle to achieve the results people are looking for. St. Petersburg Times columnist Adam C. Smith has said, "At a time when Americans are fed up with petty partisanship, [Chris Dodd] has a record of reaching across the aisle to get things done in Washington."

Iowa State Rep. Ray Zirkelbach Endorses Chris Dodd

STATE REP AND IRAQ WAR VET RAY ZIRKELBACH ENDORSES CHRIS DODD FOR PRESIDENT
Zirkelbach: Dodd Offers “Clarity” and “Conviction” to End the War in Iraq

DES MOINES – State Representative Ray Zirkelbach, a veteran of the Iraq War and a Purple Heart recipient, announced today that he is endorsing Chris Dodd for President.  Zirkelbach cited Dodd’s clarity and leadership on working to end the war and his record of results for bringing real change to America.

“I know all too well the cost of war, and I know that this war must end,” said Representative Zirkelbach.  “I've seen first-hand the disastrous effects that a lack of clarity from leadership can bring.

“Chris Dodd is the only candidate that is offering clarity and speaking with conviction on what we need to do to end this war. That's why I trust him to get the job done and that's why he's earned my endorsement.”

“I am deeply honored to have earned the support of such a fine man, public servant, and patriot as Ray Zirkelbach,” said Senator Dodd.  “Ray understands first-hand the situation on the ground in Iraq, and he agrees with me that there is no military solution to this conflict.

“It will take clarity and leadership to end this war – not half-measures or hedging statements.  Ray can trust me to lead, get results, and get the job done.”

Chris Dodd Congratulates Al Gore On Nobel Prize Win

DODD CONGRATULATES AL GORE ON NOBEL PRIZE WIN
Shares Committment to Turning Back Clock on Global Warming

WASHINGTON - Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd today released the following statement congratulating Al Gore on his Nobel Peace Prize.

"I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to my friend and former colleague Al Gore, on being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.  As today's announcement confirms, reversing the effects of global warming is an issue of global justice and security. Al's tireless efforts to increase awareness of the threats of global warming have provided a powerful voice telling the world that we need to act now.

"I share Al's conviction that it will take bold leadership to turn back the clock on global warming.  I am committed to a carbon tax in order to make it more expensive for corporate polluters to produce harmful emissions while simultaneously making historic investments in the research and development of renewable technologies."

Dodd Campaign Statement Regarding Michigan's Primary Ballot

DODD CAMPAIGN STATEMENT REGARDING MICHIGAN'S PRIMARY BALLOT

(Washington) Hari Sevugan, Communications Director for Chris Dodd for President, released the following statement regarding Michigan's primary ballot.

"We are committed to the importance of Iowa and New Hampshire going first, and we signed the four-state pledge to hopefully prevail upon the DNC and the state parties to add clarity to that situation. However, it does not benefit any of us if we are the nominee to pull our name off the ballot and slight Michigan voters."

Dodd Campaign Announces Senior Staff Additions, Major Expansion Of Field Operations In Iowa

DODD CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCES SENIOR STAFF ADDITIONS, MAJOR EXPANSION OF FIELD OPERATIONS IN IOWA

WASHINGTON – The campaign of Presidential candidate Chris Dodd announced today that it would be making significant additions to its senior leadership and field operations in Iowa.  Julie Andreeff Jensen, John Kerry's former Iowa political director in 2004 and current Dodd National Field Director, was named Iowa State Director. In addition, Steve Gerencser, a veteran New Hampshire political operative, was named Caucus Director.  In a major expansion of its field operations in the state, the campaign also announced the addition of 17 new field organizers.

"We are excited about the additions to our already-strong Iowa team," said Dodd Spokesperson, Colleen Flanagan. "Julie Andreeff Jensen brings even more in-state experience to the campaign, and these additions are another sign of the growing strength of the Dodd campaign in Iowa."

Andreeff Jensen served as John Kerry's Iowa Political Director in 2004, and ended the campaign running 'Get Out The Vote' efforts in Cleveland, Ohio, where she oversaw the largest Democratic turnout in Ohio presidential history.

The additions to field staff build on Dodd's already-strong organization, bringing the total number of organizers to 60 spread over 11 regional offices.

"With these additions, and with the help of Iowa's fire fighters, Chris Dodd is going to successfully bring his message of getting results to Iowa caucus-goers and turn out support on caucus night," said Andreeff Jensen.

In another sign of the growing strength of the Dodd campaign in the state, state Senator Tom Hancock announced earlier in the day that he is endorsing Chris Dodd for President.  In addition to representing Delaware, Dubuque, and Jones County in the Iowa Senate, Hancock is also past president of the Iowa Fireman's Association, a 15,300-member organization of Emergency Service providers throughout the state.

Iowa State Senator Tom Hancock Endorses Chris Dodd

SENATOR TOM HANCOCK ENDORSES CHRIS DODD FOR PRESIDENT
Hancock: Dodd “Offers Leadership That Has Brought People Together and Gotten Real Results”

DES MOINES – State Senator Tom Hancock announced today that he is endorsing Chris Dodd for President.  In addition to representing Delaware, Dubuque, and Jones County in the Iowa Senate, Hancock is also past president of the Iowa Fireman’s Association, a 15,300-member organization of Emergency Service providers throughout the state.

During a press conference this morning at the State Capitol in Des Moines, Senator Hancock cited Dodd’s proven record as a leader who gets results.

“Chris Dodd, more than any other candidate in this race, offers leadership that has brought people together and gotten real results that have made our country a better place,” said Senator Hancock.

“I had not intended to endorse a candidate for the caucuses, but I am compelled to speak out today because of Chris Dodd’s leadership and record of results on the issues to which I’ve dedicated my life’s work.

“As my friends and family know, Iowa Emergency Services is my second family. After talking with Chris Dodd and reviewing his Congressional record, I feel like Chris Dodd is a member of that family. I am confident that as our next President, he will continue his commitment to our nation’s security and First Responders.

“It was Chris Dodd’s leadership that ensured that fire fighters across the country would have the resources they need to protect our communities – before the attacks of September 11th made that a priority for others.  It was also Chris Dodd’s leadership that brought us the Family and Medical Leave Act, which has already protected 50 million Americans against losing their jobs when they care for newborn children or sick family members.

“During a time like this in our country, with so many challenges ahead of us, we can’t afford any more fighting or division.  We need a leader who can bring people together and get results that put our country back on track.  The more I have learned about and talked with Chris Dodd, the more it has become clear that he is that leader.”

“I am honored to have Tom Hancock’s support in this campaign,” said Senator Dodd.  “As a Senator, an emergency volunteer responder and a deeply dedicated member of his community, Tom understands that we have to bring people together to get real results for change in our country.  As a respected leader across this state, he will be an incredibly powerful voice and valuable asset for our growing campaign.”

Dodd has also been endorsed by State Senate President Pro-Tempore Jeff Danielson, as well as by the International Association of Fire Fighters, representing professional fire fighters across Iowa and the nation.

Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan Endorses Chris Dodd

OHIO CONGRESSMAN TIM RYAN ENDORSES CHRIS DODD FOR PRESIDENT

WASHINGTON - Citing Dodd's longstanding commitment to America's middle class, leadership on ending the war in Iraq, and ability to deliver results, today Congressman Tim Ryan (D-OH) endorsed Chris Dodd for President. Ryan, who was first elected in 2002, is a rising star in Congress who was selected by Speaker Pelosi in 2006 to join the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, and serves on the Appropriations Committee.

"Chris Dodd has the clarity, conviction and record of action that I believe makes him the best choice to be the next President of the United States," said Congressman Ryan. "His record in the Senate proves that when he sits in the White House, he will end the War in Iraq and the investments he makes in America will make our nation stronger and make Americans more competitive in the global economy."

"I am pleased and honored to have Congressman Ryan's support," said Dodd. "Tim's commitment to America's middle class and the people of Ohio is exemplary, and his energy and drive that have made him rise to prominence in such a short amount of time will be an incredible asset to my campaign. I am also deeply honored by this endorsement because Tim and I share a conclusion that the War in Iraq has made us less secure and a determination to do what needs to be done to change course.

"Ohio is a state crucial to a Democratic victory in 2008, and I'm honored that one of its Congressmen has decided to endorse my candidacy."

Chris Dodd Draws Clear Distiinctions

DODD DRAWS CLEAR DISTINCTIONS ON ABILITY TO PRODUCE RESULTS
Presidential Candidate Stands Out with Bold Solutions, Proven Track Record of Success

HANOVER, NH - Presidential candidate Chris Dodd stood out from the pack tonight by pointing to his proven ability to get results and his bold solutions to America's most pressing issues.

"I've spent 26 years working on every major domestic and foreign policy issue facing our country. I have proven I can get results for our nation - I authored the Family and Medical Leave Act, child care legislation, dealing in Latin America, dealing with financial services," said Dodd. "I think people want not only promises of what you'll do, but a proven record of what you've been able to accomplish."
Dodd, who has led the fight to responsibly end the war in Iraq in the Senate, is the only Senator running for President to vow to have all troops out of Iraq by 2013, saying "I will get that done."

"Walking away from international conventions as we did with the Geneva conventions, to disallow the restrictions on torture and to walk away from habeas corpus, I think is a mistake," said Dodd, the author of the Restoring the Constitution Act. "But leadership requires that you try and do something about it. I'm doing something about it by trying to get Congress to overturn the Military Commissions Act, which passed last year."

"Chris Dodd will put an end to the bickering and fighting that have defined our recent political history which have prevented us from solving the big challenges that face the country by bringing people together to get the job done," said Former NH Democratic Party Chair and Dodd New Hampshire Campaign Co-Chair Joe Keefe. "Chris Dodd has delivered time and time again for Americans as a U.S. Senator and I am confident he is the only candidate who will get results as President."

"Chris Dodd was the only President on stage tonight," said Campaign Manager Sheryl Cohen. "Chris Dodd is the only one who truly understands the stakes in this election, has a command of the issues important to middle class families, but most importantly, can deliver for the American people."
Dodd will continue to build on his strong performance tonight by bringing his message of bold leadership and real results to Iowa voters this weekend.