Howard Dean: Reality Check

I've been traveling quite a bit lately, and I can tell you one thing: Democrats across the country feel good about our Party -- and even better about our chances for victory in 2008.

Not so fast.

I know all too well how quickly things can change in politics.

You might feel optimistic right now, but consider this a wake up call. The primaries aren't even over and anyone could win at this point. On top of that, we have no idea what Republican candidates and operatives have in store for our nominee.

The only sure bet you've got this election cycle -- and for years beyond -- is that the Democratic Party will be there on Election Day, no matter who the nominee is.

No matter what happens in our primary, or what the Republicans throw at us, we need to be ready. From cutting-edge voter databases to a robust field infrastructure, we'll provide resources our presidential campaign will need to fight in every state.

We can't wait until after the primary to prepare for the election. Help us get ready by making a contribution now:

http://www.democrats.org/getready

Here's a sample of what we've been working on lately:

Ground-breaking technology: We're testing a brand new voter contact system that will give state parties, campaigns and individual activists the critical tools they need to get out the vote on Election Day. We're in a position to innovate because of the years of advance work we've done.

Organizers in the field: We're making great progress on the voter protection project. Our 50-State Strategy organizers are meeting every elections official in the country to know about any "voting irregularities" now -- not next November. More than that, these organizers have been building the relationships with volunteers, activists and other allies that will pay off in races up and down the ballot in 2008.

Holding the Republicans accountable: Last week, Democrats like you sent almost 200,000 letters to Congress in support of the State Children's Health Insurance Program. Bit by bit, we are changing the culture in Washington that says it's OK to spend $100 billion each year in Iraq, but balks at spending $7 billion to give American kids health care.

With your support, we'll continue to empower organizers and campaigns with the best technology out there. We will make sure every vote counts. We will continue to change the culture of Washington.

Working together, Democrats will take back the White House in 2008.

Help make it happen:

http://www.democrats.org/getready

Let's not lose sight of the big picture here. We aren't trying to win for the sake of winning. There are real world consequences when campaigns come up short.

The past few weeks have shown us just how much of a roadblock the wrong president can be. Even with strong, bipartisan support in Congress, the White House shot down funding for children's health care. And every Republican candidate for President would do the same thing.

This White House continues to avoid an honest assessment of Iraq and a plan to bring our troops home. The top Republican candidates wouldn't be any different -- just look at their records.

When the dust settles on the 2008 election, we should all ask ourselves a simple question: "Did I do everything possible to support Democrats and change the direction of our country?"

What's your answer going to be?

Feel good about our chances -- but we can't be complacent. Every day is one step closer to Election Day, and one more opportunity to strengthen our Party. Contribute today:

http://www.democrats.org/getready

Let's get to work.

Sincerely,

Howard Dean