Dear Friends and Supporters,

I cannot tell you how pleased I am with the results of our campaign. For a campaign that had little money, no name recognition, and few volunteers, we truly made an impact! Our campaign took an incredible 11.23% of the Democratic vote.

This is confirmation there are many more people like us who are tired of the same old political spin and tired slogans. We know the problems are complex and will require hard decisions with real solutions, rather than just kicking the can down the road, as has been done in the past.

Today, however, we must get behind Rick Larsen to re-elect him. Rick is not what we want him to be and he will not vote the way we want him to vote on many issues, but he will vote on many issues that are important to us. Above all else, we must retain control of the House and Senate. Not a single Democratic bill will see the light of day for the next two years--probably longer--if that control is lost. We simply do not have the luxury of being purists. There are too many who still need help – even it if is watered down help in the attempt to get the votes needed to pass a bill.

We know the Republican agenda – a quick look at Koster’s website tells us all we need to know. His only “Issue” is “The Economy” and the only statement under that heading is a chart showing the unemployment rate.   There is nothing offered on what he would do to put people back to work, much less address any of the other serious problems we have. We need go no further – the party of no ideas clearly has no ideas. We cannot put them in charge under the leadership of a Speaker of the House, John Boehner. I urge each of you to have this discussion with your family and friends. Losing this seat to Koster is simply too risky – we cannot stay home in protest. This race is too close. Holding the strongest congressional lead possible has never been more crucial.

The things we care about – foreclosures, housing for those in need, jobs for the unemployed, unemployment insurance for those who still need it, education, getting out of Afghanistan, building on health care – and all the other issues that are so very important – are on the line. We simply cannot lose what ground we’ve gained – made possible by many current progressive congress members.

I urge you - do not sit this election out.  Vote and vote for Rick Larsen and Patty Murray.



 Diana