How many credible, electable candidates for Congress come here personally to place themselves under the scrutiny of the Daily Kos spotlight and ask for help? How many of us are committed to the revolution, committed to crashing the gates and willing to say so publicly?
Are the Kossacks looking for good soldiers or warrior/leaders?
Will the Democrats take back Congress in November? Equally important, will the right kind of Democrats take back Congress in November--Will we elect Democrats with fire in their belly and the commitment to fight the forces that have steered both parties to this place of madness at which we find ourselves today?
Will we elect Democrat warriors, leaders who will insist on staying true to core Democratic values and who will wage an unflinching battle to change the direction of our country? Or will we simply elect "good Democratic soldiers" who will do little except vote with the new Democratic majority for old recycled compromised positions under the fear based strategy some call "triangulation"?
Who would the Kossacks prefer? I suspect you seek the warrior leader, as only leadership and a willingness to fight with vengeance for what we believe to be true can take us to a better place.
I believe I am that kind of Democrat and I need your help to win. As a second term Hawaii State Senator, I am described by my colleagues and constituents as a pragmatic idealist, I have spent the past 8 years fighting for my constituents in Hawaii and have a legislative track record in that is clear and unambiguous.
The Hawaii Primary election will be held on September 23. Local media has declared that "there is no front-runner" though conventional wisdom and local polling indicates that two other candidates, both with greater name recognition and larger campaign war chests have a shaky hold on the #1 and #2 spots, with many voters either undecided or split among the 10 credible Democrats. Both good Democratic soldiers, no doubt.
Unlike the so called front-runners who have been absent or silent during the past 4 years, who don't live in the district and can't even vote for themselves, I have been serving this country district and fighting hard through the past eight difficult years for what matters here in Hawaii. I pledge my commitment to continue fighting hard alongside others to lead this country back on track.
Unlike the established Democratic Party Machine candidates who now lead the pack and who can turn to their corporate donors for funding, I cannot. Due to the nature of my campaign, the nature of my message and the nature of my candidacy, you, the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, are my allies. I now turn to you for help.
Whoever wins Hawaii's Democratic Primary will likely become the next member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Some would argue that whoever wins the Democratic Primary, will serve as a good soldier for Democratic values and Democratic votes. I would argue that Hawaii and our nation needs and deserves more than just good soldiers. We need leadership and we need tireless and unflinching commitment.
Americans for Democratic Action (Hawaii) ranked my voting record as the "most progressive" in the Hawaii State Legislature. The Sierra Club has included me in their endorsement roster and has ranked my voting record as the best of all candidates now in the race. I co-sponsored a state resolution against the war in Iraq BEFORE the war started and remain committed to beginning now to bring the troops home.
I am seeking election to Congress because I would like to help make the world a better place. I understand what is at stake, and feel the anguish of seeing our great country headed in the wrong direction at home and abroad. I would like to be an agent for change in Washington D.C. working for peace, fighting for justice and striving for sustainability.
The Kossacks who frequent this place, can help me win and I am here today asking for that help.
I am positioned to win but must raise $100,000 for the final 3-week push for radio, TV. and print advertising. To do this we need to find 1,000 people to contribute $100 apiece prior to September 8. You can help by making a secure online contribution today at http://www.garyhooser.com/...
No donation is too small and all are welcome.
Please consider offering me your support. Please also consider forwarding this message to other friends with whom this message will resonate. The old school/big money candidates will win, unless I am able to raise the needed funds via the grass roots and net roots.
In doubt whether or not I am worthy of your support? Read my thoughts on the war and the Bush administration A candidates view of Bush and America's preference for firmness
Interested in my ideas about creating a "Strategy for Peace"? See
Between "cut and run" and "stay the course" - a candidates view on a strategy for peace
And yes, in case you are curious I am ready to be part of the revolution: Candidate from the country - ready for the revolution
For general information on my background, policy perspectives and for general campaign information go to http://www.garyhooser.com
Thank you in advance for taking the time to consider whether or not I might be someone you would like to see serving you, Hawaii and our nation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Author's note: Gary Hooser is a second-term State Senator (Kaua'i-Ni'ihau) from Hawaii who is running for the seat vacated by Congressman Ed Case. Case is running against Senator Daniel Akaka. Hooser's legislative record in Hawaii is one that has been described in the media as solidly Democratic. He has been strong in his support of education, the protection of civil liberties and increased funding for human services. He has been a strong advocate for agriculture and environmental protection. He is known for his commitment to the needs of rural communities. In his last race, he won--by a landslide--against a heavily backed, popular Republican opponent who had the active support of Hawaii's Republican governor.