I went to see the KOOCH in Dallas yesterday

[DisgustedTX]

If any of you in the remaining primary states have a chance, you should try to see this man in person.

He gave a great speech yesterday and took many questions from a packed house. Unfortunately, most of the questions, even from supporters, were "will you support Kerry?" and "why are you still in the race" nature. It was a bit disappointing from an audience perspective, but the diversity was striking. There were people from 15-75 in the audience from all races and walks of life.

This man has many great messages that would resonate with much of the public without a virtual blackout. Ironically, the local Fox News affiliate was the only local media present.

[jsw_81]

1. Why was it 'disappointing' that people want him to quit?

The primaries are over, and Senator Kerry won. It's time for Kucinich to end his so-called campaign (which is 0-30 at this point) so that we can unite behind Kerry and send Bush back to Texas.

[DisgustedTX]

2. It's disappointing that Nader is getting most of the press coverage

If you want to unite behind Kerry, ask yourself why you can read daily headlines stating "Nader to hurt Kerry's prospects".

It isn't Dennis who's "hurting" the unification process. As he stated, this is supposed to be a Democratic society - he has every right to run up until the convention.

I will vote Kerry in the general election if that's my choice.

[jsw_81]

3. Kucinich has every right to run, but that doesn't mean that he should

[DisgustedTX]

4. Your rule would apply to Sharpton & Nader as well.

Perhaps they should drop out as well.

The ABB principle is dangerous by itself.

Dean won in Vermont - he was no longer running at the time. Supporting your candidate in a primary is how you SHOULD vote. In the general election, the "D" candidate will get my vote. In the interim, I will continue to listen & follow Kucinich as his policies most clearly reflect my own. It is my vote as you have yours. :)

[ordentros]

7. its not nader either...

it's people like myself who like what nader stands for.

Edwards' wife told me that single-payer healthcare wasn't political viable.

I told her if the democrats don't think it is politically viable, then people like myself would have "to use" Nader to demonstrate political viability, if that is even possible-- but we have to try to put points on the board!

[jsw_81]

10. Nader?

If Kerry wins, there is at least some chance that we'll see a single-payer health care system, especially if we regain a majority in the Congress.

If you throw away your vote on Nader, however, Bush will win and there will be ZERO chance of any real health care reform. Don't you understand that? Don't you realize that the Republicans celebrate when people like you vote for idiots like Nader? If you care about this country and its future, you'll vote for Kerry.

[LiberalBushFan]

31. yeah, so Bush will say

hmmm there's 6% who voted for Nader (I'm giving you the benefit of the doubt), so I should try single payer health care

[revcarol]

8. Another $5.00 for the KOOCH.

The man has a message for America!!

On C-Span today, a small business owner said that the biggest single thing keeping small business from hiring all those people the large corporations laid off was the lack of medical coverage available to employers at a reasonable cost. He favors single-payer health care!! THE MESSAGE IS GETTING OUT AND RESONATING.!!

[angryinoville]

14. Being 0 for 30 is...

par for the course for most of the candidates. The best anyone else did was win one, Edwards SC, Clark OK, and Dean VT. DK has a message which I hope resonates through to the Kerry campaign. That's why he's still "campaigning". I think that until Kerry steals some of his message, DK should continue.

[youngred]

36. "we"

and people wonder why we think some Kerry supporters are arrogant.

[revcarol]

39. The proverbial bad penny....

you vote for whom you want and we'll vote for whom we want. Or are you into prying into ballots....

HOMELAND SECURITY...THERE'S A TRAITOR, LOOKEE, HE VOTED FOR KUCINICH, GOTTA BE A COMMIE

[DemBones DemBones]

42. Excuse me, but the primaries are NOT over.

Apparently, you don't understand the negative effect that a Kerry supporter can have when he or she is telling everyone else "My guy won, your guy's a loser, so hurry up and unite behind my guy."

Kerry supporters shouldn't push their luck with all of us who have supported another candidate. Kerry wasn't our first choice and we've all considered the options of voting third party or staying home from the polls rather than vote for him. Most of us probably will vote for Kerry, or whoever the nominee is, in order to defeat Bush -- I've been lobbying for that choice myself. But don't push us.

[TinaTyson]

43. The courts are my primary reason for supporting Kerry.

I am doubtful about what a Kerry foreign policy will look like. I feel that anyone who would write in his book that Viet Nam was a one time thing. That the US has never behaved that way before or since is either being purposefully being deceitful or has supported some very questionable things. Chile, El Salvador and East Timor come to mind. So I don't trust him on that.

I think we may see moderate improvements in reigning in the WTO etc. We should also see welcome improvements in the handling of the environment. But the most important thing is to not let a republican president to stack the Supreme Court , or we are in big trouble for a long time.

[Kanary]

50. That doesn't have to do with the primaries and caucuses

It's still appropriate to vote for Dennis in the remaining states with primary votes yet to come. That has *NOTHING* to do with Bushwa, or the court.

As a matter of fact, supporting Dennis would *strengthen* the Dem stand on those issues you list as important to you.

Since you are new here, you may not be familiar with the proposals of Dennis Kucinich. I would suggest doing some reading at www.kucinich.us.

Kanary

[greatauntoftriplets]

44. Has the March 16 Illinois primary been cancelled????

Oh my God! I have been disenfranchised.

[Brucey]

5. Delegates are still being elected, and that matters.

We need to have Kucinich and Sharpton and Dean and Edwards delegates at the convention for many reasons including diversity, representation of everyone (not just Kerry lovers), so everyone feels involved, to influence decisions on rules and resolutions, and to keep media attention. Also, it is philosophically wise to have many voices in the Dem party to keep democracy working. Don't forget that Kerry was shaped by the many Dem voices he was surrounded by in the early days of the campaign. Also, with many voices we are more likely to get media attention, new ideas, and discussions that will sway the voters toward the Dems. We need to keep the debate going.

[jsw_81]

9. Where is Kucinich going to get delegates?

To get delegates, he'd need to win fifteen percent of the vote. Where is that going to happen? Texas? Florida? Mississippi? I don't think so.

And even if he did win a few delegates here and there, he won't have nearly enough to influence the convention. To influence the convention and get Kerry's attention, Kucinich would need to have at least 300 delegates. As of today, Kucinich has less than thirty.

[pop goes the weasel]

11. It will be easier than you think

In Texas, at least, delegates are only chosen in part at the polls. It's at the precinct convention afterward that they are really divied up. I have been to precinct conventions at which I was the only one there. The Kucinich supporters will make an effort to go to the precinct convention, because we still have to fight. Kerry's supporters, while they will likely still outnumber us there, won't be there in anything like his polling percentage because they are confident of victory. Thus there will be Kucinich delegates--I have no doubt that in some places, they will be the only ones to turn out. DK supporteres may be sent as undesignated delegates, but they will be at the State Convention, and then at the National Convention.

[Brucey]

13. I believe Kerry supporters should be more welcoming

and humble. Piling-on is not how to run a campaign if you want inclusiveness. The gloating of the Kerry supporters on this board makes me lean toward voting for Nader, something I never, ever would have considered possible before. Be accepting. We're in the same party. Show respect for democracy and a wide-range of views. That is how to get support in the end. We know Kerry will be the nominee. But let the rest of us have our say. It won't hurt you at all; and, in fact, will help in the end.

[Kanary]

15. I want to thank you, jsw

Your constant negativity and criticism of another DEM has convinced me exactly what Kerry stands for, and I know, thanks to you, that I can NEVER vote for him. I'm sure you're convincing others, also.

Trash away..... you'll win Bushwa another 4 years yet.

Kanary

[tinanator]

18. aint that the truth?

who do these characters really work for?

[Kanary]

19. I've wondered mightily

But, we're not allowed to say.

Cute, eh?

Kanary

[tinanator]

25. the ugly truth

sometimes known by many names, all unspeakable. Whats it gonna take America? Hindsight does a corpse little good.

[JohnKleeb]

28. kanary I am sorry jsw dissed DK

but can I tell you something that will maybe make you feel better about Kerry. When I fully supported Kucinich in November, I got a nice email from Chris Heinz, Kerry's stepson with praises of DK and thanking me for standing up for his stepdad on numerous occasiions. He also told DK's people he had met at an event about me, and I received a call later that week from DK campaign HQ. I also heard that Vanessa Kerry as she passed by some DK supporters said that I really admire what he stands for and etc. If a Kerry supporter can't convince you maybe his kids can, and IMO those kids have helped the campaign. This isnt what Kerry stands for. I saw how the DK and Kerry campaigns endured ridiucle, DK for not having a chance which btw wasnt given to him by the people and Kerry for being a loser and etc. I hope I can sway you.

[youngred]

37. He already has delegates

and despite the persistant ignorance of the facts DK has polled over 15% in several different primaries. The more people drop out of the race the more likely it is that his vote total will go up (people saying Kerry already has it so I can vote my conscience now).

[DoYouEverWonder]

6. I saw Kucinich in Gainesville, FL on Thurs

He has a lot to say and a great message. He talked alot about fear vs hope, war vs peace, switching to alternative energy sources and how everyone can make a difference.

He also addressed the issue of staying in the race. He said he is staying in until the convention but that all the candidates had pledged that at the convention they will come together to fully support the party nominee. I have no problem with this strategy. Kucinich speaks for a lot of people who want to see a better world and that voice needs to be heard.

[texasmom]

12. I saw him in San Antonio yesterday....

The newspaper said 400 were present. It was a great rally, and I really enjoyed hearing him speak. I had to leave before the Q and A was finished, but he got good questions based on the ones I heard--none at that point about dropping out. The first question he got was about the problems with e-voting and what can be done. I've been reading a lot about the subject and I learned even more from his answer. Very impressive! I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

[Kanary]

16. Dennis and Diebold

I'm glad to hear that someone asked him about e voting, as he has quite a bit of knowledge about this issue, and I don't think the average citizen yet understands the problems.

I also don't think the average voter knows that Dennis won a round against Diebold!

I can't wait to hear him in person here in Colorado!

Go Dennis!

Kanary

[rucky]

17. What was the turnout?

as a refugee from the Big D, i can only imagine it was small

[DisgustedTX]

20. Turnout wasn't bad - around 250-300 people

It was held in a very small, non-descript location near downtown.

Very entusiastic crowd - seemingly much appreciated by DK.

[HalfManHalfBiscuit]

21. You should stay out of strip bars

I know that Kooch is appealing, but those places depress me.

[scarletwoman]

24. Thanks for your erudite contribution to this discussion. (n/t)

[Kanary]

22. Can't wait for Dennis to get to Colorado!

We're all excited about his upcoming visit(s) here!

Kanary

Another Delusional Diehard for Dennis!!

Kucinich 2004!

[goodhue]

23. kick for the kooch

[corporatewhore]

26. i had breakfast with the kooch sorry had to brag

[JohnKleeb]

29. damn youre lucky

Ive only met him once. I found out today he is a poet.

[Kanary]

30. Breakfast?! Oh maaaan....

Hey, I'd brag too.

HOpe yo have a great time! Something for the memory book, that's for sure.

Kanary, jealous as heck.... :)

[snoochie]

27. I saw him twice

First at the restaurant for the American Muslim Alliance forum, then at the Dallas Peace Center.

All that was played on the news was a brief mention that he was here, and that he was calling for an end to the violence in Iraq (or some words to that effect - not bad really).

[Capn Sunshine]

32. If only there was a picture of him in a speedo

who knows what might have been.

[snoochie]

33. I know - it would have been like the "Dean Scream"

Thanks, but the vast majority of attention from the whore media hurts more than it helps.

[eridani]

47. I'd pay really good money for that

Unfortunately, it wouldn't go over well once the media whores got ahold of it.

[goodhue]

34. Kucinich stops in S. Texas

http://www.caller.com/ccct/local_news/article/0,1641,CCCT_811_2711162,...

Kucinich stops in S. Texas
Contender aims for White House

By Quincy C. Collins and Janell Ross Caller-Times
March 7, 2004

ALICE - Steam escaped from a large pan as Jim Wells County Democratic Party Chairman Lupe Martinez served up two hot corn-and-bean tamales for Democratic presidential hopeful Dennis J. Kucinich's plate late Saturday morning.

But in his first political campaign tour of South Texas, Kucinich said he is the one who would like to serve South Texas - in the White House.

As Kucinich and his campaign staff arrived at the Alice Democratic Party office, Tejano and country western music blaring through the loud speakers served as a reminder that the progressive Ohio congressman and former Cleveland mayor must appeal to the Democratic Hispanic vote.

Throughout the day, Kucinich would stop in many South Texas towns, including Hidalgo, Edinburg, Elsa and finally, Corpus Christi. Once in Corpus Christi, he spoke to a crowd of more than 200 who waited for him at the Nueces County Democratic Headquarters. Throughout the day, he spoke about care for veterans, the Iraq war, health care and the North American Free Trade Agreement.

http://www.caller.com/ccct/local_news/article/0,1641,CCCT_811_2711162,...

[revcarol]

35. Damn energizer bunny...

DK just goes,,,and goes,,,and goes,,,

He would be GREAT for S. Texas Hispanics!! Wonder if he went to a colonia where they don't even have RUNNING WATER!!And about 90% have NO HEALTH CARE!!Oh, he would be such a great President!!:-)

Bad link for article?

[goodhue]

38. link

Trying again.

http://www.caller.com/ccct/local_news/article/0,1641,CCCT_811_2711162,00.html

[scarletwoman]

40. Thanks for the link!

That's a really cool article!

Delegates, delegates, delegates -- GO DENNIS! I LOVE that guy! :loveya:

sw

[LWolf]

41. Great!

People hear about him, read about him, see him on tv, and they take note of his positions. They meet him and hear him in person, and they are with him all the way. He is an incredible man.

:hi:

[redqueen]

45. He was great, of course.

I saw him at both events. Wouldn't have missed it for the world. Managed to get a copy of "Prayer for America" signed but no pic. :( He was rushed every second (meeting with DMN editorial board, interview, etc.) I hung around after his interview for a chance to shake his hand and thank him for coming to Dallas - and he seemed to give me the oddest look -- he probably thinks I'm some kind of stalker!

He's sick and won't be campaigning for a few days so that means we Kucitizens need to pick up the slack! Doing some last minute canvassing tonight for the primary vote tomorrow and will be signing up to be a delegate. I'm so excited to be a part of this movement.

If you agree that we need to further this message of peace and a new, progressive direction for this country, then it's up to us to spread the word. Call, write letters, donate money, canvass... there are lots of ways you can help.

"Never doubt that a small, dedicated group of people
can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing
that ever has."

- Dr. Margaret Mead

[Kanary]

46. I'm sad, but not surprised, to hear he's sick

He's been pushing himself so hard.

I will hope that he's able to get lots of good rest, and will feel better shortly.

We're with you, Dennis, come rain or come shine!

Kanary

[goodhue]

48. good luck in Texas

and thanks for the report

[redqueen]

49. Thanks for the good vibes

Looking forward to the precinct convention. :)