Say hello to the Press Secretary for the Kucinich for President campaign

[WilliamPitt]

:hi:

I am taking a leave of absence from truthout to serve as the new Press Secretary for the Dennis Kucinich for President campaign.

Here we go, yo.

:)

[JohnKleeb]

1. Cool

Maybe people will start voting their hearts :). I thought you were a Kerry man though Will. I support both.

[ProudToBeLiberal]

4. lost your idealism?

I thought you supported kucinich

[JohnKleeb]

7. read the sig please

sigh as long as people arent voting their hearts in these primaries, I am damned, sigh. I like Kerry and Kucinich equally. I would vote for Kucinich though if I had the choice. No I havent lost my idealism at all, I just realize something, that my attempts have failed, people are making IWR to be their sole reason for opposing or supporting a guy, yet they ignore ole DK. I will never lose my idealism. :(

[regnaD kciN]

27. IWR as a single-issue concern...

I just realize something, that my attempts have failed, people are making IWR to be their sole reason for opposing or supporting a guy, yet they ignore ole DK.

For what it's worth, I haven't ignored DK -- I just don't think he's the best choice among the anti-IWR candidates.

And I see nothing wrong with using the IWR vote as a "single-issue" test. As far as I'm concerned, it was the most significant vote on any issue for at least the past ten years (since the approval of NAFTA, which sounded the starting gun for the "race to the bottom" globalization that has fueled our current economic crisis) -- because, in deciding whether or not to allow the U.S. to wage pre-emptive war against a country that is not a danger to us, in order to advance "our" interests anywhere in the world, we are setting the precedent that will surely decide what our nation will become from now on. By that standard, IWR was not merely a political or pragmatic decision, it was a moral test of the highest caliber. In my opinion, if one fails such a test (as I believe many of the Democratic candidates indeed failed it), it is not possible to trust that individual in any other matter, big or small.

[JohnKleeb]

32. I didnt say you did

but I really think the two major candiates who opposed the war, Dean and Clark werent totally against it either, someone has links on the statements. Dean expressed support for the Biden-Lugar amendment and Clark said he would have voted for IWR if he was in congress at the time. I understand your concerns, I really do. Its just these guys I think were for a compromise just like all the other major candiates. Its just I think if we wanna prevent future Iraqs, I put my trust in DK over Dean and Clark any day of the week, I prefer Kerry for domestic reasons over those two and DK as well over them. Its just as Kerry has emerged as the frontrunner this week, more and more it seems to me that the reason why people wont support him is the war.

[Uzybone]

71. Well said

Iraqi war voters who support Clark or Dean over Kucinich are nothing but hypocrites.

[John_H]

105. Welcome to Hell, Will.

Having been there, I can only offer you my condolences and the following advice: As you gain expereince on Team K, make sure you don't say anything that your future colleagues on the nominee's team will be able to hit you with.

The politics on the inside are as bad as the political war you're fighting.

[Egnever]

2. You are one strange dude

Is kucinich aware you are a kerry supporter?

[arcos]

47. I was wondering the same thing... n/t

[WilliamPitt]

51. It is possible - ACTUALLY POSSIBLE - to...

admire two Democratic candidates simultaneously.

Stop me if I'm going to fast for you.

Kerry = good.

Kucinich = good.

OK?

Good.

[Myra]

54. Therefore, by your logic WillPitt, Kerry = Kucinich

Are you saying they're the same person?
Like Superman and Clark Kent! Great scott!
You do have the makings of a helluva book here.

[Dark Star]

110. Myra!

Stop bursting DU bubbles!!! LOL

:yourock:

[drfemoe]

130. LOL . I love DUer humor .. ya'll crack me up .. eom

[arcos]

56. I am not stupid...

although you certainly imply I am...

It is different to ADMIRE two candidates than to SUPPORT two candidates. I know you admire both of them, I've read your posts.

But until know, I thought you supported Kerry ONLY.

Will you vote for Kucinich in your primary? Or will work for him but vote for Kerry??

Admire and support are NOT synonyms... ok?

[blondeatlast]

72. Go, Will! Will we see you in AZ?

[iowapeacechief]

84. Excellent answer, Will!

I've argued the same thing ever since Dennis got into the race. I'm delighted Kerry is finally getting it together as a campaigner. I'm delighted you're joining Dennis--a welcome boost.

This is WIN/WIN!

[diamond14]

133. post 18 & 19...thought WP supported Kerry...WP: you're WRONG

sounds very different from the new spin: you can support TWO candidates at the same....but, opps, watch the words YOU, instead of I..it's just an implication...just a little seed planted to make people think that's what's happening, but NO admission...

sure....infiltrators wreck campaigns all the time... let's not forget the very famous Watergate...which BTW was unethically criminal...gosh, it was just an unethical attempt to find out what the other people were doing, so nixon could WIN...

[WilliamPitt]

140. Heh heh heh heh

Did you just call me a mole?

[diamond14]

145. admiring carefully chosen words (post #51), which are spun more

for what they don't say, than what those words do say...anyone admires that ABILITY to spin...but sadly, the way it's used here is really pathetic...

-----------------------------

"It is possible - ACTUALLY POSSIBLE - to...
admire two Democratic candidates simultaneously.

Stop me if I'm going to fast for you.
Kerry = good.
Kucinich = good.

OK?
Good.

----------------------------------------

[mdmc]

99. No offense to Pitt

But I bet Sen. Kerry got a pretty professional press secretary. I don't know whom Pitt will be replacing on the Kucincih team, but I think that Pitt will do more good there. Shit, Kerry will be there after the convention. If Kucinich does not win the nom, Pitt could always work for Kerry.

[LeftPeopleFinishFirst]

168. I feel *exactly* the same way

I am Kerry, Kucinich as well.

[tinanator]

172. Ignore the wharf rats Will, you do your best, we'll do the rest!

Happy to have your help!

[Lisa0825]

3. That's really cool!

Kucinich is a good man. Good luck with your new endeavor:-)

[Mr. Brown of MD]

5. Congrats!

But now what are all of the people who call you blatantly pro-Kerry going to say? Will, you're so insensitive of their feelings! :eyes:

As always, you do us all proud! Can't wait to see what you can do with the post.

-CollegeDude
Dennis Kucinich is still God

[JohnKleeb]

11. Are ya kidding lol

This is great. Actually I think they will understand, one of the biggest Kerry supporters I know here is a big fan of DK and his efforts, and was working for DK while you and I dude werent living and when the others didnt know who he was, I am sure most of us will be quite fine with it.

[Mr. Brown of MD]

24. It's hard not to be a fan of DK

Especially now that he's got Will for a front man. :)

And to think, people like you and I can say we knew him way back when, John! When he wasn't any more than an English teacher who had a way with words. Now he's really in a position to make change. Hell, I'm happy for him.

-CollegeDude
Happy for the country and the world

[JohnKleeb]

25. If anyone has my wand and booze

I can convince you hes electable :).

[Mr. Brown of MD]

26. No need

I'll take some of that booze anyway, if you don't mind, though. ;)

-CollegeDude
Turning 21 nine days too late

[TexasPatriot]

6. I've always said

Dennis was a reflection of the soul of this party... to be his press secretary is, well, it's like being a sort of democratic metatron. Full points WP. Do him (and the party) proud.

[GreenArrow]

77. "Dennis was a reflection of the soul of this party"

If that's true, and I believe it is, then Dennis getting 1 to 2 percent of the vote is a clear indicator that the soul party is sick, sick, sick.

[Mike Niendorff]

8. congrats, to both parties involved.

Great position for you, and a great choice for him.

Way to go :party:


MDN

[Paragon]

9. I think you could do both at the same time

How much press is Kucinich getting, really? ;)

Congratulations and good luck!

[Tinoire]

10. Awesome Will! Couldn't happen to 2 nicer people!

I look forward to what you are going to do for him!

Peace

[JohnKleeb]

13. I would love to put in my lil guide book Kucinich under my victors list

Its pretty interesting.

[Dover]

12. WHOA........Will what happened? I thought you were a Kerry guy?

At any rate congratulations. You will do a great job. I always thought someone should snap you up as a speech writer. Press sec. will work too!

[regnaD kciN]

18. Considering that Will has been a Kerry supporter from way back...

...I can only assume that his "announcement" above is tongue-in-cheek.

[WilliamPitt]

19. You assume wrong

No points for you.

[regnaD kciN]

29. That's quite a surprise, then.

Congratuations on your new appointment.

[Dark Star]

111. Not really a surprise at all:

politics is all about compromise and expediency.

[diamond14]

127. surprised like "I never said that saddam was an imminent threat"

prove it, or shut up....

it's a pattern followed by many in the media...

[Tinoire]

188. Will did some fund-raising at DU for Kucinich a few months ago

as well as writing some great articles about Kucinich for Truth-Out.

First time I ever met Will was at an extremely Leftist event where both he & Kucinich spoke.

Really. No suprise. I'll vouch for Will as a Kucinich supporter any day.

[genius]

14. Way to go. Glad you picked the right campaign.

Dennis has my vote - guaranteed.

[theorist]

15. Congratulations!

If Dennis needs a science policy advisor, let me know! :)

[sandnsea]

16. Very nice!!!

That is so cool. Congratulations!

[Hoppin_Mad]

17. Congrats ! Did you sour on Kerry ? -nt-

[WilliamPitt]

20. FOR THE RECORD, I DID NOT 'SOUR' ON KERRY

but of all the candidates, and after much thought, Dennis Kucinich is the only candidate I would walk through fire for. The other candidates are extraordinary men all, and I would be honored to have them as my President. But Dennis is Dennis, and the cause is just.

[Dover]

22. Good for you Will....that must have been some weekend you

spent with him. I envy you. And somehow it makes a lot of sense that you would gravitate toward each other. Both of you speak from your hearts and together will move mountains.

Will you be writing about your weekend with Kooch?

On edit: Me bad. I guess I missed your article. Will go find it now.

[iowapeacechief]

85. Bingo again!

When did you decide? During the Iowa weekend immersion, or was that at the end of the process?

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

142. This makes me happy for TWO reasons

1) I can ONLY imagine what the press will be fed NOW.

2) It means Kucinich is hanging in there for now..good deal!

[Tinoire]

189. Now that.... is super. Same way almost all DK supporters feel

Hang on to your hat. It's going to be a rocky ride!

[Fovea]

21. This is the best news I have had all year.

Of course, the year is young.

You are a good man, William Rivers Pitt.


RealP

[A-Schwarzenegger]

23. Hey, if Dennis needs a gag writer to loosen up his image...

A priest, a rabbi and a mixed animal walked into a bar...

EDIT: "a *vegan* mixed animal"

[Feanorcurufinwe]

28. Wow Congratulations!

I bet it will be a great experience for you.

[Terwilliger]

30. Well!

That's pretty damned cool! :hi:

Best of luck to you both! :dem:

[jeter]

31. Say what?

Will, I thought you were a Kerry supporter?

Things get curiouser and curiouser.

[frank frankly]

33. Will, you're fucking sweet

fucking sweet.

[eridani]

34. HELLO!!

And right fawking ON!!! That last TO article SO rocked!

[Myra]

35. Are you serious WillPitt!!!!!!!!!!!!(?) 'Cause if you are, this is

THE best news. If you're not...there'll be hell to pay mister.

Are you serious????
'Cause Kucinich is a great man, a truly great man.
A Wellstone kinda great man.
Don't be playing with us now.

[WilliamPitt]

38. Go to kucinich.us

and click the 'Watch part 1' link under the NH primary section in the middle. That's my coming-out party in Manchester.

Party on, Wayne.

Party on, Garth.

[Myra]

41. Well, until that downloads over my flintstone connection...

I gotta tell ya, I can't imagine a better use of your talent
and energy WillPitt. There's nobody I think more highly of than
Kucinich. (Did you hear what Gore Vidal has been saying about him?)

Thank you for helping him get the attention he deserves.
I'm truly heartened. Thank you.
In fact I was thinking tonight, after he made a fool...
ok, a bigger fool, of some CNN drone, that I need to keep donating
because I want him in the race all the way.

He's the soul of the Dem party Will. He's the person who keeps
Dorian Gray's portrait from turning into a portrait of the Dems.

Nicely done lad.

[Paragon]

42. Good gravy, that's a big ass file

Can you give me the time code of when you "come out"?

[Paragon]

43. Never mind - got it

About 14:30 in.

[Myra]

45. Will you summarize it for us since Will's being coy???

eom

[Paragon]

46. Not too different from his bookstore speeches

He is kinda screamin' like Dean - I got so scared I pulled my Kucinich support. :silly:

Uh oh...now he's introducing interns, and he's newly single...;)

Then he personally introduces Dennis in true Teddy Kennedy red-faced fashion.

[WilliamPitt]

48. "I got so scared I pulled my Kucinich support"

heeheeheeheeheeheehee...ain't NO justice in this world. :)

[Myra]

50. Thanks Paragon. Thanks Will. We all gotta do everything we can to

Keep Kucinich's voice in the mix.
He's our rudder.

[Myra]

44. It is a honkin' big ass file. I gave up. But I have a dial up connection.

Drat.

[librechik]

49. wow-- excellent news!

how perfect is that?

Go Will!

[mdmc]

104. I'm listening to link 1 NOW

:dem:

[bloom]

120. Only a Windows option?

:shrug:

I don't DO windows...

[iowapeacechief]

124. One of the first things Will should fix!

Too many of DK's videos are Windows-only and/or RealPlayer 9. No need to be so exclusive. This situation has improved a bit over time but should be addressed squarely and fixed. Thanks for bringing it up!

[overground1]

36. I thought you supported John Kerry...

[Ripley]

81. And at one time it was Dean.

So I guess some people are mushy. :shrug:

[iowapeacechief]

87. How often must if be repeated...

...that we have a wonderful field of candidates?

There's no shame or even inconsistency in liking more than one.

[mdmc]

100. Ya think Dean is mushy

Cause I know Kucinich ain't. Nor is Pitt.

[veggiemama]

37. Glad tidings of great joy! I aways figured you for a Kucinich man!

I don't know how anyone could write with such honesty and power about the problems of our nation and not support Dennis Kucinich. He's absolutely the best. When you wrote so passionately about your encounter with Kucinich while on your tour, I suspected you were hooked. Godspeed with your new job, Will! Dennis's message must be heard!

I hope you won't forget the expat vote. We are many, and we will be voting. There's a caucus vote in Dublin on Feb 7th, where I'll be casting my vote for Dennis. I'm also trying to start an Irish chapter of American Voices Abroad, an organization that's trying to vote as a 100,000 voter block.

[JackieO]

39. GO KICK SOME ASS!!!

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

[Room101]

40. My already high respect for William has now sky rocketed

I support DEAN but in a rational world Kucinich would be our president! I saw Kucinich on CSPAN the other day talking to a community college and it made me want to leave California and go work for him. William I envy the time and experiences you have had and will have with Kucinich. If I were a Democrat I would vote for Kucinich in the California primary.

:yourock:

[sleepyhead]

169. Amen

"I support DEAN but in a rational world Kucinich would be our president!"

Yep.

[DemBones DemBones]

52. OK, Will, NOW I'm impressed! Will you be traveling with Dennis?

I would think so. Congratulations, you lucky guy! I know you'll do a great job for the Kucinich campaign.

:toast: :toast: :toast:

Tell Dennis I said to come on down South and speak truth to people and they'll love him.

Wow, DK's press secretary -- hot damn!

[Myra]

53. Are you still writing a book about Kucinich WP, or was that a trick to

find out how people felt about him?

Hmmmm? Full disclosure.

[ThirdWheelLegend]

55. Holy doodoo! Wow, great news Will!

Welcome to the light side!

Kucinich is the voice of the people and now you can help that be heard!

YAY for WILL!

TWL

[Piperay]

57. CONGRATS

and BEST WISHES! :toast: :bounce: :hi:

[MMT]

58. WOW! He's certainly getting someone whose skills he can use

Have you ever done press-secretarying before, though? And does he know you support Kerry?

Major cool, though--congratulations!

Now the next question is: how are you going to force Media Inc to treat him right?

MEGA-WOW!

[CWebster]

59. Does Kucinich know of your strong affiliation with Kerry?

Either way it strikes me as highly unethical---either collusion or a conflict of interests.

[DemBones DemBones]

60. Unethical? Why?

Will was very impressed with Dennis when he first met him, which I think was last spring. I remember he posted about meeting and talking with him and about hearing him speak.

[CWebster]

66. What does that have to do with anything?

Pitt is firmly in Kerry's camp and, assuming that Kucinich doesn't know of Pitt's agenda, it is highly dubious ethically. On the other hand, it wouldn't surprise me in the least that Kucinich is again attempting to strike a bargain with power broker connections.

[WilliamPitt]

107. Explain your vision of the ethics, specifically

[diamond14]

146. to correct FACTUAL errors in a recent Truthout article....

the one about Kuchinich...where several farmers and a chemist pointed out clearly the factual errors in your outrageous claims that the groundwater, surface water and soils in Iowa were HIGHLY POLLUTED...and there was only 14 inches of topsoil left in Iowa...

all the information and chemical data was presented to you, at your request, and you posted that you got it....

corrections are in order now...that is what ethics is all about for journalists and newsmedia people...if you made a legitimate mistake, then use the same amount of space and publicity to send out a correction...noting that there was an error....

[CWebster]

155. Well, I might just get delected for saying so

eh, Pitt?

[diamond14]

156. 'highly dubious ethically' is a very good call....there is no reason

that people should be trying to silence you....

[WilliamPitt]

173. Not if you abide by the rules

Give it a try.

[diamondsoul]

114. Pssst, Newsflash-

NOBODY knows how ANYBODY ELSE will cast their ballots when called to do so.

I can say I'll vote for Kucinich all day (and I will), but you don't KNOW that I won't change my mind when I hit that voting booth. As for Will's "agenda" I'd like to see evidence that he has one! On DU he's spoken strongly in favor of Kerry for the nominee. In his professional life, however, he's spoken highly of each and every candidate in the race.

I strongly resent your insinuation about Kucinich as well. I'm still trying to figure out where you see "power broker connections" in John Edwards when he was polling lower than Wes Clark prior to Iowa, and Will Pitt while enormously talented and having a following among the educated masses online, is not exactly in the league of Ted Koppel for power to spread a message, is he?

Unreal. People bitch when he doesn't get his message out well, and then bitch when he makes an effort to change that. Makes no sense at all to me.

[diamond14]

125. agree. highly unethical...good explanation of failure to correct

FACTUAL errors in recent Kuchinich Truthout article....

farmers stated that author's claim of "14 inches of highly polluted top-soils left in Iowa" is just not true....author was informed that Iowa soils were depleted 50 YEARS AGO, but NOT TODAY...and the Iowa farmers sent clear explanations of how and why soils are much better today....that authors claims were erroneous....

chemist wrote that there is "NOT massive soil pollution, groundwater pollution and surface water pollution in Iowa", as claimed by author...and provided 30 years of chemical data from Iowa....data produced by the USGS, the EPA and the State of Iowa to prove that the Iowa water and soils are OK....even wrote short summary paragraphs of the OK water/soil conditions in Iowa, easy to understand even for non-scientific people....

response from author of this deception: saw the tables and the summaries...was busy...didn't want to read it...author published article about Kuchinich anyhow, without the necessary corrections ...

the spin about Environmental conditions in Iowa was so outrageously wrong, that Ari Fleisher would be PROUD....

despite that the author requested constructive criticism...when the FACTS messed up the story about Kuchinich...the author rejected the facts, distorted scientific data, and pushed out a deception...

I agree...the whole scam is 'highly unethical'.....

[molly]

61. Congratulations!

[curse10]

62. Are you serious?

Holy crap! That's cool!

[trumad]

63. So what happens the first time you've got to diss Kerry?

I don't get it... You clearly have touted Kerry on DU for the last year and have defended him at every turn. Hell...you even had a little controversy at TruthOut because of him.... So are you going to follow the DK line and Diss Kerry and his war vote at every turn? It's like being a Chevy salesman for 2 years, quitting Chevy, going to Ford, and then dissing the product you've touted for two years in favor of your new product. Your customers are going to say...but wait, I thought you said the old product was superior. It is a little confusing...

Dude....I thought you were a writer who was climbing into the Conason/Krugman/Lyons/Ivins/ league.... Oh well...

[AP]

64. And will, Edwards, the friend of your employer, become your friend?

[Eloriel]

86. Think about it, trumad

If you work in politics, you don't really have loyalties. You have employers. Simple. Plump up your resume when and where you can.

Besides, we all know Dennis isn't in this to win -- certainly not any more. Some say he's simply getting ready to run for Senator. (That seems backwards to me, but what do I know?)

[Desertrose]

128. No, we don't *all know that Dennis isn't in this to win*...

Talk about speaking for other people.....

and I totaly disagree that you can't have loyalties when you work in politics, El. Thats pure BS and I thik thats a lousy inference about Will.

Maybe thats the way you see it but doesn't mean its necessarily so.

Bottom line- we all have to live with our choices & decisions....its not up to us to judge.

Peace
DR

[mdmc]

101. Yeah, we all loved Kerry

But hated what was going on in the Senate. Pitt never pulled punches ("Kerry is right on the war" - never came out of his mouth)

[joanski01]

65. Hello, Mr. Press Secretary

Congratulations, Will. This is just so great! I'm so happy for you. I sure hope you will continue posting tidbits for us here on DU. Maybe more than tidbits??

[WillyT]

67. Fantastic Will, That's Great News !!!

Don't forget to always keep a pocket full of fish. ;)

Next time you're in Northern CA, I'm buyin!

:toast:

[Iverson]

68. Hello!

:donut:
Have a coffee on me to go with best wishes.

[hel]

69. Wow.

Just watched the video you mentioned. Dennis Kucinich sounds great to me as a world citizen. I just wish we had such a political platform and a man like that here in Turkey.

Good luck and congratulations.

[THUNDER HANDS]

70. Okay Mr. Secretary...a question

In what state is Dennis Kucinich going to pick up another bunch of delegates in order to have enough to broker power at the convention?

oh, and congratulations! :hi:

[Uzybone]

73. Congrats

it sounds odd at first but if anyone decides to think it through theyll find it pretty easy to understand. But knee jerkers rarely think things through.

[LWolf]

74. Hello, Mr. Press Secretary!

Welcome and thank you, Will. I too, can say that I think the other candidates are fine men, and I appreciate their work for the U.S.; but Dennis is the only candidate I would "walk through fire" for. You "get it." Why we support him, and why more people need to hear him. May this be a productive partnership for both of you, and for all of us!

:toast:

[Renew Deal]

75. That's great. Congrats

He expects to keep you employed through June. You wil probably also get to go to the convention right? Congrats

:toast:

[NNN0LHI]

76. Congratulations Will n/t

[Raven]

78. Waaaaaaaaaa!!!!!

You're going on the campaign trail????? You're leaving your Mutha???? Who will take out the trash???? Who will shovel the driveway????? Waaaaaaaaaaaaa!!! :-)

[VelmaD]

98. You must be so proud Raven

I know I'm just tickled pink for your boy. :-)

Congrats Will! :toast: Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy. :-) It's so neat that you get to work for the candidate that talks to your heart...and get paid for it. :-)

[Tinoire]

190. Congratulations Raven!

This isn't the first time we've congratulated you and it won't be the last I know.

Just please. One _small favor. Let us know if his head ever gets too big- I mean really BIG.Those of us who have met him, who know him, want to make sure we keep him as sweet as you raised him ;)

[RetroLounge]

79. Well, if anyone can spin 2% into something good...

eom

[MuseRider]

80. Amazing match up!

Congratulations to the both of you.

[Name removed]

82. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[goodhue]

83. Cool

Sounds like a great gig! But what happened to David Swanson?

[diamondsoul]

102. David is a great guy who wants nothing

more than to see Kucinich win. He's stepping down and going back to his regular job, I believe, and announced as much very graciously to State Staff. Personally I wish he'd go back to managing the Meetups, but it's his call to make.

[iowapeacechief]

106. Appreciation to David Swanson!

I don't know him, nor do I know any "inside stuff" that may have gone into Pitt's appointment, but I have appreciated David's work and wish him well.

Please keep us posted on internal workings of staff--without disclosing personally or strategically sensitive stuff, of course. Sharing about staff and organization helps supporters justify our own efforts and builds confidence in the campaign's potential for greater effectiveness.

[WilliamPitt]

108. David Swanson did amazing work

[diamondsoul]

116. Hey, this means I get to hear from

you on a regular basis! COOL!

And when you get going, I have a question or two for you about your visit to Indiana.

BTW, last night I spoke at a local Dm. Club meeting. They took a straw poll at the beginning of the meeting and again after everyone spoke for their candidate. Kucinich started with 2 votes in the first poll. After I spoke, he tied with Clark for second with 7 votes (Dean was in first with 16 votes), despite Dean and Clark supporters having the largest groups in attendance. The Dean speaker was gaping at me and nodding his head the whole time I was talking. LOL

Let me know if you want them and I'll give you my major points from that speech. They seemed to go over realy well with the people in that Dem Club.

[eridani]

160. Very glad to here this

and relieved that there would seem to be no bad feelings.

[Desertrose]

88. Hell-O oo Mr Press Secretary...and may I say welcome!!!

Will, this is fantastic!!!
This makes my heart happy!!

So yeah, you coming to Zona??

You'll get to meet all us 'Zona buddies of Kevin maybe?? and you know the Zomby lives here too...hey...this could be right interesting.....

I am very happy fro you and for the Kucinch campaign!!

Rock on, Will!!!

:loveya:
DR

[dpbrown]

89. Thank you, Will

We are in excellent hands.

Dan Brown
Saint Paul, Minnesota

[Lydia Leftcoast]

90. Excellent, Will!

Maybe you can actually get my favorite invisible candidate some PRESS for a change.

Welcome aboard!

Will the large coterie of Minnesota DUers get to meet you when Dennis comes here in February?

[ncrainbowgrrl]

91. Congrats!

DK is awesome. Being part of a national campaign is awesome. Being selected to be part of a campaign staff is amazing!

I'm really happy for you! Enjoy this amazing opportunity!!!

[Ficus]

kick ass will

Good Luck! I'm glad to see you on the Dennis campaign. Your way with words will serve him well!

[Lefta Dissenter]

92. I can't remember the protocol,

are we supposed to bow or salute?

Congratulations!

[Dark Star]

113. I think we bide our time;

Who knows?

When Clark becomes the frontrunner after super-Tuesday, perhaps WP might apply with our campaign. :eyes:

[Lefta Dissenter]

139. Hey, it's ok, Dark,

actually, Will took a stroll in the OTHER direction - leaving the side of the current frontrunner and heading to another candidate he obviously believes in - obviously not a poll-driven decision.

I say good for him!

[buddhamama]

93. hello and welcome aboard!

as a DK supporter i couldn't be happier to have you working for his campaign.

An excellent addition to the team. Congrats Mr.Pitt, and thank you :toast:

[cryofan]

94. A suggestion for you

In your Kucinich-related press releases, media communications, etc., please avoid any mention of auras, veganism, yogis, channeling, or any other New Age concepts. Kucinich's campaign has already done enough damage to the progressive agenda. If a reporter asks you about such things, just reply with, "no comment," or something of that nature. Please do not let the media further associate the most well-known progressive candidate with eccentric ideas and lifestyles. We cannot afford to let that happen.

[GreenPartyVoter]

95. Howdy-do Mr. Press Secretary!

They couldn't have made a better choice! :yourock:

[mdmc]

96. Hello Mr. Secretary!

You say Dennis, I say Kucinich!
Dennis !
KUCINICH!
DENNIS !!
KU CIN ICH !!!

[Duder]

97. Another real "deal"...

..for DK.

[kentuck]

103. Congratulations! No doubt in my mind you have picked a progressive

And the states of NM and AZ are the two best opportunities for Dennis to get the attention he deserves. This week is his chance. The environment and social justice are important issues in those two states. His message fits them well. He should move to those two states for the remainder of this week, in my opinion. Again, congratulations on picking the truest Democrat in the race! :)

[supernova]

109. Congratulations Will!

:toast: :toast:

I know you will bring a higher profile to Dennis' campaign. I love him to death, but he needs to be out there more.

I have every confidence you can do something about that. ;-)

Expect to be seeing both of you on the nightly news, pronto.

[HuckleB]

112. Congratulations! A worthy endeavor!

[latebloomer]

115. Most excellent!!

I was so happy to hear this morning that Kucinich will stay in the race. His ideas need to keep getting out there,and you are the perfect man to help make that happen.

Congratulations, Will!

[bloom]

117. Congrats Will!

What a great experience. :toast:

Let me know if Dennis is going to be in the area. I would love to see him!(Candidates so rarely ever go to Indiana - I would imagine he would get some good attention).


P.S. Ed Gillespie was going on and on today about how liberal Kerry is. They need to see Kucinich so they know what they are talking about. LOL :)

[diamondsoul]

122. We're working on trying to get him to

Bloomington, sometime in the coming weeks. The bloomington Coordinator is working petition drives most strongly, but she was planning to submit a request for him to appear after NH, so we should get a confirmation or refusal soon enough.

[chocolateeater]

118. Congratulations and Good Luck!

:toast:

[no name no slogan]

119. Congrats Will!!!!

Glad to have you joining the campaign!!!

I think you'll do a fantastic job!

:toast:

[Crewleader]

121. Wonderful Opportunity William

Press Secretary for A Good Man!

Try to get him more Media Coverage, his message and his voting record goes with most of us here, in our hearts he's the best for all the working families that are struggling.

When you get out to AZ, give Desertrose a big hug and Zomby too!

Proud of you! :hug:

[Johnyawl]

123. Will, you backstabbing, rat-jumping-from-a-sinking-ship...

...oh wait. Kerrys ship isn't sinking, is it? :7


Seriously, congatulations! And be sure and give Dennis DUs best regards, he has many loyal supporters here. Geniph has been a big DK supporter since she heard him speak at one of the anti-war rallys, and she'll be delighted at this news. I'm more of a Kerry/Clark kind of guy, but I like Dennis, and think that what he has to say needs to be heard.

You continue to serve your country well, Will.

[underpants]

126. Good Luck

:hi:

[redqueen]

129. Oh God bless you, Will Pitt!!!!

:loveya:

This is such fantastic news! I've loved your work for so long -- I think you'll make an excellent addition to Kucinich's staff. :)

Best of luck to you! Enjoy the chaos!!!!

:hug:

[iowapeacechief]

131. Template for e-mail to supporters (slight edit needed)

At 9:50 AM -0600 1/28/04, Joe Lieberman wrote:
January 28, 2004

Dear Supporter,

Today is the beginning of the rest of this race. Last night New Hampshire’s next-door neighbor candidates received most of the vote, but the rest of the field was split, with no clear decision reached. The national pundits didn’t expect this, but today the people of New Hampshire put me in the ring, and that’s where I'm going to stay. Now I'm moving on to states where I will continue to do better and better.

I have a strong mainstream message, a vision for America that includes cutting taxes for 98% of Americans, providing healthcare for our families, and leading with the integrity that our country needs.

The Republicans are afraid of our campaign. They know they can't run the same playbook of attacks on me that they run on everyone else. They know that I am strong on values, they know that I don't flip-flop on the key issues, and they know that I can beat George Bush this November.

Our fight has just begun. Today I will begin taking my campaign to the crucial February 3rd states of Oklahoma, South Carolina, Delaware, Missouri, Arizona, New Mexico, and North Dakota. But I can not continue this fight alone.

Your support has brought me this far -- and it will continue to take me all the way to the White House.

Thank you,


Joe Lieberman

P.S. -- Don't forget you can still make a contribution ((link deleted)) and travel to an early primary state ((link deleted)) through our Web site.

[WilliamPitt]

132. Here's your edit

Dear Supporter,

Fuck.

Thank you,


Joe Lieberman

[TahitiNut]

147. "Go forth and multiply"??

Seems like rational advice from any candidate to his supporters. :shrug:

[UrbScotty]

134. WHAT?! AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (nt)

[twilight]

135. Go get 'em Will!

and congratulations! I cannot think of a better person to be anyone's press secretary! I am sure you will help Dennis Kucinich and his cause!

You were MADE for each other Will! Follow your path! :D

What an honor! GO WILL!!! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:



:dem: :kick:

[helderheid]

136. Hoorah!!!!

I am so happy to hear it!! I watched the video last night and about fainted when Dot introduced you as the PS!

By the way, I am the Virtual Outreach Coordinator and Media Outreach Coordinator for Utah so we'll be in touch. :)

I would like to make a suggestion as well - last night Dennis was interviewed and the question about Dean being an unknown and his amazing rise in the polls in comparison to Dennis - I found myself yelling at the TV for Dennis to mention MoveOn.Org's primary, in which Dean won after 1 year of campaigning and he came in an amazing 2nd place after 4 months of campaigning, and that the media grabbed onto Dean and ran with it. He didn't. Just thought I'd throw that out - maybe the campaign can do something with it. I know they have a comparison chart on the site about Dean vs. Dennis in the media and it shows that jump for Dean right after MoveOn's primary. Just my 2 cents.

Again, congratulations!!! I am so excited about this and so happy for you!

[seventhson]

137. GIVE THEM HELL, WILL!!!

They deserve it.

[windansea]

138. cool...I can see you addressing the WH press corp one day

that would be an interesting duel

congrats!!

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

141. Oh holy hell!

Good for you and good for us. I imagine Kucinich likes Kerry just fine :D

[incapsulated]

143. This campaign season gets more bizarre every day!

Well, best of luck to you! (although I also think you're a bit of a strange dude, heh)

:hi:

[LincolnMcGrath]

144. SOOOOO THAT'S WHY YOU WERE LATE!

You were brown nose'n DK right over there in Davenport? :tinfoilhat:

[cosmicdot]

148. be good, now - help get Kucinich's message out front ......

I flashback to last summer ... a co-op store in Ocean Beach, CA ...

btw ...
I've sent the recent truthout piece to several of my friends.

[Kucinich4workers]

149. Will Pitt...an American Hero!!!

Will, thanks for being a man of honor, a man that isn't afraid to speak the truth...and for standing for just causes. I am working on the campaign in NC. I am in this of course for peace, but also for workers. Dennis' message for workers is strong...they just don't know about him. Let's get the message out!!! Thank for for becoming a messenger for truth!! David Swanson has done a great job and I wish him well; I hope he will continue to fight...BUT I AM SO-O-O EXCITED TO HAVE YOU ON BOARD!!!!! NC IS READY FOR YOU...COME ON DOWN SOUTH!!!! -SHERRY THOMPSON, NC HIGH COUNTRY

[cindyw]

150. Congratulations Will!!!

He's lucky to have you. Must have been that car ride interview!

[Kucinich4workers]

152. Anyone that meets Dennis feels the same

I really liked DK, and everything about what he has to say. I spent 2 hours with him and listening to him in person and seeing how REAL he is...I became passionate about him being president...he isn't just another policitican. He really is the REAL DEAL!! If his campaign was covered by the media...he would blow everyone else away. I BELIEVE THAT WILL IS THE MAN TO GET THE MESSAGE OUT!!! Those of you that like DK, but vote for someone because of the electability garbage....just remember, this is the same press that told us that there were weapons of mass destruction, we have to protect overselves, the Iraqi people will be free, etc. In the general election, I will vote for whoever the democrats run...and I think most people will...why not vote for the man who is REAL! Who has a clear vision for the working people of America, who has been with us all along. Please don't let the media steal our chance of having real change. How much change are you ready for? Join the Kucinich MOVEMENT, let's take our country back! :grouphug:

[LawDem]

151. Dennis can do what Nader claimed he would do.

Dennis is helping to hold the party's feet to the fire against any possible Republican lite/don't-make-waives backtracking. But, unlike Nader, he's doing it in a way that hurts Bush, not the Democrats. Sadly, Dennis isn't going to become president -- that's the political reality. But by running on a bold and unapologetically liberal platform, he's, nevertheless, providing one hell of a gift to both the Democratic Party and the progressive movement in general.

Best of luck, Mr. Pitt. It's work well worth doing.

[KamaAina]

153. I always knew I liked Dennis

now I have another really good reason to!

News you can use: Hawai'i is a caucus state (Feb. 24) -- and no one but me seems to be aware of this!

http://www.hawaiidemocrats.org/calendar.html

Dennis has already been here, one of the few candidates to do so (Dean stopped by after his Laos trip, but it wasn't really political; then there was the time we made Bush* go to his fundraiser through the service entrance...) Plus I overheard some people at a bus stop near me talking up a Kucinich meeting that night (I try to stay away from events on worknights, or I might have gone).

All of this adds up to an opportunity for Dennis to kick a little 'okole out here in a few weeks. A word to the wise...

Unelectable? Dennis? Not: my Mom (still a Dem, but sliding into the mushy middle somewhere to the left of Lieberman) watched a BSNBC debate with me while she was out here over Thanksgiving. Guess who she liked?

Carol Moseley-Braun -- and Dennis.

And this was BEFORE Dennis had the master himself to shape his message!

[WarNoMore]

154. congratulations, Will. This is wonderful news.

I called my Mom in Ashcroft country (sw MO) the other night. Naturally, I steered the conversation to politics. She mentioned that she knew how much I was backing DK, and she said she hasn't been able to learn anything about him, because no media ever covered him. She said she has never seen *anything* about him. Go to it!!

[Paulie]

157. Will SCREAMS better than Dean

Just thought I would throw that out there. :) :) :)

Welcome aboard Will. Your joining up really lifted my spirits!

[bread_and_roses]

158. Good news!

I have really enjoyed your writing. Good luck, to you and to DK, my first choice.

[stickdog]

159. Will, how do you intend to wrest the nomination from the current

favorite?

What attacks on the current front-runner do you feel will be most effective?

[ibegurpard]

166. Indeed.

eom

[Tatiana]

161. Congratulations!

Best wishes for continued success. I know you'll do a great job!

[REP]

162. Congratulations

Doesn't change my opinion of Kucinich one iota (I still loathe him) but I'm happy for you and this terrific opportunity. I know you'll do well with it.

[curse10]

164. How can anyone loathe DK?

He's probably the nicest candidate we've got. By far one of the most liberal.

[REP]

185. His Anti-Choice Voting Record and Self-Serving 'Conversion'

His supercilious self-importance, his insincerity, his non-stop pandering ... but this is Pitt's thread about his new job, and I am truly glad for him and hope he enjoys it.

[Zomby Woof]

163. A ZombyKickapoo

[chyjo]

165. Congratulations

on working for a true idealist.

[bigtree]

167. This is great for Dennis Kucinich

Is this a walkout on John Kerry?

[WilliamPitt]

176. There was never a 'walkin' with Kerry

I admired and supported him, but never worked for him. So, no.

[milkyway]

170. Great! Keep it real, Will.

[ElementaryPenguin]

171. Congratulations!! Will, please help him get Rush Holt's bill passed!!

I admire the hell out of Kucinich - and did long before he declared himself a candidate! You should be proud! Good luck.

:toast:

[eridani]

174. BBV info collecting on the DK site--

--your first press release?

[Miramar]

175. Dennis has a great advocate in you Will

And, since you have over 1000 posts here at DU, I bet you're going to talk up a storm about him here.

[economic justice]

177. Better say goodbye to DU for a bit

Posting now means you're not working. Dennis need mainstream press exposure....

[WilliamPitt]

179. Not working yet

but your advice is sound when the clock starts running.

[hippywife]

178. Well, butter my biscuits!!

Welcome to the campaign, Will!! Look forward to working with you!!

~Monica Griffin, NE OK Coordinator, who unfortunately was unable to be in Edmond tonight. :cry:

[economic justice]

181. What is it with Oklahoma?

I heard Dennis say last night that Oklahoma supporters have enabled him to go on this far and that's why he's going there again. Sounds like he has quite a cadre of support there. Why is that? Of all places!

[hippywife]

183. Really couldn't speak for everyone

but those of us that are here and support him do it with as much heart as we possibly can. We've marched in as many parades as possible with no other candidates represented at most of them and a group of us are driving all over the state to speak to Dem Party meetings in other counties. We have to try harder so we do. :)

I don't think we are different in our support than any of the other Kucinich supporters around the country. We have that inter-connectedness that DK likes to talk about.

[hedgetrimmer]

180. Hello, New Press Secretary for Kucinich...

Take a big bite, sink your teeth in deep and only let go to take a bigger bite...

....happy day :)

[corporatewhore]

182. Congrats!!!!! to you and DK!!!!!!!!!!!

:hi: :yourock:

[MSchreader]

184. After I heard about Scott Ritter endorsing DK

I was wondering if that would change things. Personally, I'm glad to hear this and I congratulate you on your appointment. Knock 'em dead, Will.

Martin

[corporatewhore]

186. Hello you lucky dog!!

:hi:

[IndianaGreen]

187. Aren't you a Kerry man?

Or is this strictly a professional relationship?

[corporatewhore]

191. I thought he was a HAMM man myself :)

[NV1962]

192. Peace & godspeed, William

It's a jungle out there, so take care - and find your way back here!

[0rganism]

193. Impressive!

I'm sure you'll do a great job for the Kucinich campaign.

After this year is over, I think you've got the makings of another book on your hands.

[Rhiannon12866]

194. Congratulations, Will!

He is lucky to have you! And we are fortunate that Dennis Kucinich is still in the race, telling the truth and challenging the other candidates to do likewise.:-)

[Rhiannon12866]

195. Kick!

:kick: