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Election 2006: AFSCME Members Vote for a New Direction
Note: These are excerpts from just a sample of the hundreds of responses received.
Here's what AFSCME members from around the country had to say about why they voted for a new direction.
Joan Lavery - Harrisburg, PA
"I was very tired of having my voice unheard. There are so many important social issues that need to be addressed. Our society needs to be compassionate and caring."
Michelle Meneely - Reading, PA
"In my opinion, the current US Congress is not in touch with the wants and, especially, the needs of working families. The rich are getting richer and the middle class is shrinking."
Larona Greeley - Braham, MN
"It is time for a big change. I hope that the Democrats will be more honest and forthcoming then what has been in the past. So much dishonesty this past 4 years – it was time for a big change and it has happened! At least my vote counted – even in our local voting. We need a change and we got it!"
Linda Raun - Corry, PA
"My hope is that newly elected Democrats will rise above the fray and cooperate as non-partisan policy makers."
Thomas Colbert – Kensington, MD
“I voted to change the course because (as my brother would say) the 'word' of the day is 'solidarity', as in me and all my union sisters and brothers are in solidarity with loving our country and making progressive changes for working families.”
Diane Brewster – Edwardsville, PA
“Last election I did not listen to the union and voted for Bush. We all know how wrong of a choice that was. I've also found I'm more active with the union now and since you research feel that your choice will be much better than mine. We need a change and I feel it's time I support the union more actively than I had.”
Mike Bretz – Elizabethtown, PA
“I am a registered Republican, but I voted for the Democrat for the House and Senate. Not only the war, but the tax cuts for the wealthy, no national health insurance, no action on raising the minimum wage, the corruption, and the deficit, were all factors influencing my vote.”
Barbara Morinho - Jamestown, RI
"They have been obsessed with the war at the expense of domestic problems. WE need better health care for our citizens, affordable housing, and answers to our energy problems. I could think of many more but these are foremost in my opinion"
Dorothy Austin - Springfield, MA
"Bush and his corrupt people have been catering to the very wealthy...not the average person....too many Americans have been suffering, everyday living is so tough....gas prices soaring, while oil companies are raking in the profits in an extreme manner, but oh how they have miraculously have gone down during the re-election period."
Dorothy Litt - Newton Centre, MA
"I wanted to have a government that respects working people, abortion rights, civil rights, and labor's rights. Hooray!"
Constance Benson - New Hartford, NY
"The Republican administration did not support working families or middle class America. I'm tired of the very rich getting even richer at the expense of the working class. Middle class America pays way more than its share in income tax."
Marjorie Feiden - Troy, NY
"To keep our pensions in tact, to up grade the working peoples wages and conditions, to keep and find more jobs in this country, and help the lower class and the elderly, better health care and prescription drugs at lower rates, lower taxes, better incomes."
Anneiq Costello - Buffalo, NY
"First and foremost, I voted for change because I believe that we are headed in the wrong direction. I think it is fundamentally un-American to think that business can make functionally sound governmental decisions."
James Champion - Huron, OH
"We needed a change and I'm not even big in politics but I listened well this election. So I voted to TURN AROUND OHIO! Help out the working people"
William Sandie - Fernley, NV
"The Republicans are killing us they are running up huge depts fighting for oil wealth instead of taking care of business at home."
Angela Porreca - Richfield, OH
"I always vote, but I feel this year we need to get a change, I am worry about my Social Security."
Alvin Fogelan - Robesonia, PA
"It is time to get a change in focus on our priorities."
Elzie Simpson - Cincinnati, OH
"I just feel the country is going in the wrong direction. The war in Iraq, all the corruption under this administration, it just seems like the middle class people have been shoved under a rug."
Lucy Freck - Gilbert, PA
"Both my husband and I are lucky in that we have union jobs. Through the union we can lobby for better wages, benefits, etc. And we have job security and pension plans. But many we know many who work for low wages and don't have basic benefits such as paid sick leave. We need politicians who will stand up for working Americans and especially for the working poor. We need politicians who are union friendly."
Laura Canfield - Dansville, NY
"Most politicians have lost touch with the average working people that they represent... most of us struggle to pay our taxes, pay our bills, and worry how we are going to send our children to college. We are not able to vote our selves a raise, guaranty ourselves a retirement check."
Michael Burns - Auburn, NY
"During the Republican reign of dysfunction energy prices have soared, health care costs are unbelievably high, seniors are ripped off by the drug companies and middle class students can't afford to get educated."
Roger Quintana - Colonia, NJ
"I voted for a change because George W. Bush … sent us into Iraq under false pretenses."
Marilyn Rubenstein - Brooklyn, NY
"I really would like to see Democrats in charge for a change, especially the president."
James Leyba - Albuquerque, NM
"I voted because the course we're presently on is definitely not the right one as proven by our failing policies. Globally it appears we have lost some respect from various countries."
Kim Turner - Seattle, WA
"With growing problems both at home and abroad I decided to vote for the party of the people who care about all human rights and not just getting more by bleeding those who already are struggling just to survive - that is, the Democratic Party."
Bradley Stevens - Long Beach, CA
"On the national level, this is the worst administration I have seen in my lifetime, ever."
Rich Berg - Little Falls, MN
"It was the Iraq war. How are we protecting our freedoms? I am afraid I cannot connect the dots on this one."
Emma Long - Yonkers, NY
"Because I am sick and tired of the Republicans favoring ‘Big Business and the Wealthy’ in this country. Also, I do not like the idea of not being able to speak my feelings and being referred to as ‘non-patriotic’."
Karen Themelis - Lowell, MA
"We need real people in congress to HELP the American people and not to hurt them. We absolutely cannot go on like this."
Joanne Pels - Walker, MN
"My State and my nation were heading in the wrong direction. Minnesota has always prided itself on being a leader by setting the stage for improving the quality of life for all citizens. Now we can't afford to send our children to college, we can't afford health care, we don't have decent roads to drive on and if it wasn't for AFSCME there wouldn't be decent jobs in Minnesota."
Cherilyn Tate - Renton, WA
"I voted for changing the course of America because the attacks fomented by the current administration and Congress against working families, minorities and our current foreign policy directions."
Karl Feitl - Coram, NY
"I need people in government who will represent my interests."
Maryann Peters - Los Angeles, CA
"It is time to change course--not ‘stay the course.’ I have spent today working at the ‘Promote and Protect the Vote Hotline’ in downtown L.A."
Jean Dalton - Portland, OR
"I want our government to be much more involved in getting our children educated, getting affordable healthcare for all Americans, making our infrastructure safer, getting our mentally ill off the streets, and getting serious about reversing the damage we're doing to our environment. I want a future that includes all of us and a government that sees that 'liberal' is not a dirty word."
Milton Bartelme - Franklin, WI
"It's our government not just big business! We need health insurance reform not just passing on the cost to the user but a better plan - the Union knows the way to start - lets all help out the best we can. We need to look at the war situation with more than Just ‘Stay the Course’ Lets all do our part to help keep both Wisconsin and Washington beautiful to all of us by helping do our part however we can !"
Wayne Sherman - Horseheads, NY
"All I saw was the rich getting richer and the middle class looking for a second and third job to keep our heads afloat. The attack on Social Security, the shell game with Medicare, the botched war in Iraq and it goes on and on."
Carla Worth - Big Rapids, MI
"Liberating the people from a tyrant was one thing -- the right thing to do-- but, the lies used to get us there and keep us there are just WRONG."
Patrick Guernsey - St. Paul, MN
"My vote was for good public services and against the rampant corruption of the Republicans!"
Linda Jeffrey - Framingham, MA
"I am employed by the State of Massachusetts. The previous governor, my top boss, awarded no pay raise for AFSCME State workers. The unions in the United States are our last hope for the future of our country when in this time in our lives many jobs, industry and talent are going overseas."
Cathy Bakken - Rochester, MN
"I and millions of other middles income families have finally got together and proven we are tired of status quo and we want change and that change is with the democratic party. We did a hell of a job and we will continue right through 2008."
Ronald Malone - Columbus, OH
"Our country was totally on the wrong path. We need a positive answer to the Iraq matter. Not ‘Stay the Course’. Blue is my favorite color."
Marie Milsten Fiedler – St. Paul, MN
"I voted to change the course because my contract depends on Minnesota legislators and the governor to support the University of MN for more than buildings. Public Education in Minnesota does not need to be nickel and dimed and skimmed off to the private sector. It is our strength and already is accountable. Health care needs to be dealt with on a National level and single-payer is the way to help businesses and the uninsured."
Wendell Hill – Yonkers, NY
"The Republican neo-con corruption, & corporatism, no national healthcare, the environment, the domestic spying, and last but not least the blatant union busting policies of the Republicans."
Terra Johnson – Akron, OH
"It is time. We as a nation have been under an administration that is not for working families. Health Care is out of control. Social issues and economic issues are not even being addressed properly. In the state of Ohio we have someone who wants to privatized the turnpike and almost eliminate the support staff in the Public Schools, giving the state dollars to charter, and private schools."
Don Kaiser – Verona, KY
"I think it is time that regular Americans and business realize that outsourcing our jobs and health care is damaging to not only our economy but also our nation as a whole."
Adam Artimez – N. Canton, OH
"To stop the attack on the middle class."
Emma Martinez - Sylmar, CA
"YES, I voted for change. I'm sick & tired of Bush’s lies. He is so arrogant; he alone, knows what's good for the country. It is Bush's Way; or the highway."
Mary Norton – Toledo, OH
"My Husband and I voted DEMOCRATIC all the way. We are tired of the way the middle class are treated. Time to change and for the better."
Nancy Rising - Kirkland, WA
"It seems to me that this is our last chance to save our democracy and our Constitution. I only hope that if the Dems win that they have some backbone (lots, actually) and courage and guts!"
Jessie Holmes – Homestead, FL
"I have voted in every local and national election since 1964. But this election, aside from pocketbook issues, is very important due to the direction the United States is moving."
Orville Fried – Omaha, NE
"Need I mention the invasion of Iraq and the disaster it has turned into?"
Margie Kuznitsky – Las Vegas, NV
"Seems like Democrats are always more people oriented and supply social services for the people who need them. All the oil barons seem to be Republican with billions in profits."
Jaymz Geier – Louisville, KY
"I voted to change the course because as a Veteran of the Vietnam war, I am rather sickened by the rattling from those who did SO much to escape their duty in that era."
Raymond Wilson – Troy, NY
"Time for a big change in government from little towns to Washington, DC."
Shelia Lewis – Niagara Falls, NY
"I voted to change the course because I am tired of the working people getting the short end of the stick."
Neil Blumenfeld – New York, NY
"Simply because I’m 53 years old and do not want to see my social security money in the hands of privateers. Granted I have a good couple of years before I start collecting it but anything done to keep social security healthy is great for this country."
Kathryn Rudd – Eagan, MN
"I not only voted for but believed in and volunteered for a local candidate who supports working people, especially unions. Tip O'Neil said, ‘All politics is local’ and I believe we all have to start at the local level to work for change."
Phyllis Romano Eldred – Rochester, NY
"Because I'm sick and tired of the old America. I hope significant changes come. It's my second time to vote in 51 yrs! What's that tell you?"
Vikki Marshall – Cortaro, AZ
“I voted for change because I do not feel many of our elected officials are listening to their constituents....We made significant changes here in Arizona and were able to keep most of the elected friends already in place. There is hope."
Lois Parsons – Canton, IL
“This war is a big mess…We have a son in Iraq and a grandson in the service. We are upset about companies leaving our country and the young people losing their jobs…Many young people are unable to put away money.”
Elizabeth Allard – Lexington, OH
“I voted clear across the board for the Democrats. I believe they can bring us out of the quagmire that the Republican held house and Senate have put us in. I am disgusted with the dishonesty, the ripping off of average Americans to build a fortune for themselves and Big Business. I am turned off by the many promises that have been broken and the preaching of one thing and then doing the opposite.”
Nancy Lawrence – Maple Heights, OH
“Because it was about time to show that we can make a difference when we use our rights.”
Ellen Slack – Philadelphia, PA
“The war/occupation in Iraq and domestic social issues are of great concern to me, but I'd say that most of all we need a change in the terrible economic direction of this country."
Freida Forrest – Boonsboro, MD
”I wanted to restore our collective bargaining rights. With a new governor, I think we can do that and get better pay for state employees and a better pension plan. I wanted to see more democrats in our legislature, and more respect for state of Maryland employees.”
Erik Larsen – San Jose, CA
“I voted for a change because life is getting harder. I'm paying more for health care, and my retirement is no longer secure. During contract negotiations all I get is take aways. What little raises I get, if any, are barely enough to cover the rise in gas prices.”
Zona Spaeth – Spokane, WA
“We, the people, have not been represented by this Administration. Only the biggest businesses, corporate giants have been served. Great reversals and changes are necessary to save our very constitution let alone the Fair Labor Standards Act."
Jerome Nevick – Mt. Carmel, PA
“To get some people in office who care about people who work for a living. To get rid of Rick Santorm & with your help we did it!”
Mary Goulding – Green Bay, WI
“I voted today to give back America to the people of our country. I have felt to long that no one in Washington has been listening to those of us who live paycheck to paycheck, earn minimum wage, have no insurance and go hungry to pay for their medical costs (this can be a young person or a older one). I voted as I feel it is a privilege of living in this country and a right I do not take for granted…Without AFSCME’s educational/political programs from the start when I became a member I would not have understood what my vote can do”
Ada Johnson – Joilet, IL
“Our country was seriously on the wrong course and can do much better for its citizens. The Iraq war, tax cuts for the oil companies, attempts to make cuts in social security that would only benefit Wall Street, and the catastrophe in New Orleans with the Katrina disaster were mainly the reasons I voted for change.”
Lucille Weisenburger – Delhi, NY
“It’s not like I changed my course. I never voted the other way.”
B. Jean Bromley – Whitewater, WI
“We need reliable, intelligent, hard working men and women in office. We need people who will listen to their constituents and who will play the game fair for everyone.”
Sterling Clark – Montague Center, MA
“Hopefully we'll gain some new fresh ideas in this mess we're in. Cannot stay the course. That's not working. I think the Texas Cowboy got a wake up call. Whether it'll do any good is another matter.”
Karen Jones-Jackson – Chicago, IL
“I voted to change the course because I am not happy with the economy and problems with unemployment. Our people are suffering in Iraq. I support raising the minimum wage. I believe that all Americans should enjoy and have livable wages.”
Karine Janvier – Brooklyn, NY
“I voted to change the future of this country. I voted for those that said they will support public services and the education of our children.”
Walter Fontaine – Providence, RI
“The country was headed downhill on a roller coaster without brakes. The refusal to raise the minimum wage was shameful. The environmental policy was horrendous, being written by oil and other mineral interests. Disregard of the Constitution by warrant less domestic spying. Attempting to make Social Security into a Wall Street Benefit program.”
Karen Metz – Albuquerque, NM
“I voted primarily Democratic because I think this country needs some new leadership...A person's voice is not heard unless he/she has a substantial amount of money. The rich, including our President, are so much richer and the poor are definitely poorer!”
Jonathan Sanders – Matteson, IL
“In the word democracy, it relates to Democrats, and it's very important that they don't do what the republicans have done to this country the last six years.”
Kathy Dawkins – Leland, MI
“When the Republican Party took over running the federal government, they were left with a budget surplus. They have managed to spend all of that plus now this country has to cut back on essential services. My wages continue to be worth less. I am planning on working until I am no longer physically able to as I am not able to save any money, but have to continually pull out dollars from our retirement.”
Mohammad Smidi – Toledo, OH
“The situation in Iraq has devastated the economy of this country and put all of us as Americans in danger of losing the hegemony that we currently control over the world. With a change of parties in the House and Senate, we hope that does truly produce change that will impact everyone positively.”
Sharon Blanding – Danbury, WI
“We needed to elect officials that were labor friendly. Our jobs were being threatened like never before. We still need to keep watch and be pro-active to preserve our jobs, lower the cost of health care, protect social security, and bring our men and women home as soon as possible. We cannot think that our work is done; we need to continue to fight for our beliefs. Hopefully our newly elected officials have heard the message!”
David Anderson – North Braddock, PA
“The major reason is that I do not like the Republican's catering to the wealthy elite while what's left of the middle class suffers economically for not being one of them.”
Jim Russell – Syracuse, NY
“Just because the President has the United States Marine Corps (and the rest of the armed forces) at his disposal doesn't make his foreign policy right. I prayed as hard as anyone that we would find weapons of mass destruction to justify our presence in Iraq. The reasons now stated aren't the reasons that we invaded.”
Rock Owens – Houston, TX
“I voted for change because I couldn't stand to see my world, my country and my brothers and sisters suffer at the hands of this administration for another minute. With action there can be change and with change there is hope!”
Floyd B. Davis – New York, NY
“I voted for change in the last election to end the culture of corruption, arrogance and warmongering in Washington. The Republicans have never had the interest of working people on their agenda and their last six years of total control in Washington made that plain for everybody to see.”
Theresa Owens -- St. Albans, NY
“For the same reasons as our members did: health insurance, retirement, wages, education, etc.”
Ellena Irby – Philadelphia, PA
“There had to be a change in Washington.”
Lynda Mobley – Republic, OH
“For the first time in my life, I am concerned about the future of the United States and in particular Ohio. Americans seemed to be loosing pride in this great country. Many had lost belief in the impact their involvement in politics could have in the future course both nationally and locally. This election enough of labor and labor households realized they, someone in their family, or friends had been impacted negatively by the economy, especially health care and wages. Labor and people they influenced took the lead in starting a new direction for U.S. and Ohio. I am proud we woke up. I pray we stay awake and vigil for our freedom and safety.”
Steven Horner Sr. – Sharonville, OH
“The Republicans have had their chance to fix the economy, get a health care plan in place, and generally make life better for the middle class......What they have accomplished?”
Carl Nabozny – Hudson, NY
“I voted for a change of direction internationally and at home....With Republicans running the country, you have big business, a corporate culture bordering on fascism, war, and a falling economy. I voted against all of these things, not to mention the assault on the middle-class. This is why I vote and will always vote.”
William OLaughlin – Whittemore, MI
“The large loss of jobs and the health care loss. It is time for the national health insurance to be started -- the one that the Real Last and only president of the country wanted some 12 years ago.”
Judith Curry – Edgerton, WI
“I voted for change because I do not believe we have a right to go into foreign countries and tell them how to live.”
Judi Abbott – Sanbornton, NH
“Hard to pick just one reason, but I travel a lot and have been to many countries in Asia, Africa, Europe and Australia just within the last 14 months and our stature with all the countries is rock-bottom. Americans are still well liked but our government is universally detested.”
Joe Block – Detroit Lakes, MN
“I was hoping for a different governor because Pawlenty seems to be very self serving and shortsighted. He may be young but 15 years will creep up awful fast and we need to put way more into young public education. This is our primary resource and will do more for the economy and crime rates than anything else.”
Carlene Stines – Bloomington, IN
“Our country is heading the wrong way. I want my country back to where we the people were the people who had a voice that was heard loud and clear. Give us back our rights to have a job that can take care of our family. Let's go back to taking care of our people. We need to get back to where we where and when we could get health care and retire with dignity. We work hard and long hours and get nothing back.”
Cornelis Regeer – Greenlawn, NY
“Everything that they did was directed towards big companies and well-to-do people. Granted, companies provide jobs but does the CEO have to make $1,000,000 or more per annum? Is he/she worth it because they found a cheaper labor force outside the U.S? I don't think so.”
Dean Muscello – Baltimore, MD
“We need to supply affordable health care for every man, woman and child in the U.S."
Deborah Purington – Tolland, CT
“I voted for a change for 3 reasons: (1) Even after Congress found out that the President, & Vice President knew that there were no Weapons of Mass Destruction, the UN would not agree to go to war. (2) Social Security and Medicare: fix the donut. My parents are paying more for their drugs now then before the big change. It is worse now then ever. (3) Education: because of the federal tax cuts our children's education has suffered.”
Chris Wilkins – Winthrop, MA
“I voted for change because the anti-family, anti-middle class, anti-union government that was in office had to go. While all congressional elected offices are and remain Democrat, we did manage to elect a Democrat for Governor in Massachusetts for the first time in 16 years!”
James Robb – Philadelphia, PA
“I voted for a major change in the way Congress does business. I'm sick and tired of hearing about all of the pork barrel politics, theft, ethics violations, and the like.”
Phyllis Levengood – Enola, PA
“I voted for Bobby Casey to go to Washington and be our senator. He will stand up for labor and Pennsylvania and I have a lot of confidence in him that he will "do the right thing" for labor!”
Jon Goliber – Worcester, MA
“Watching the Republicans get away with anything they wanted. It will be years before we recover.”
Margaret Garbacik – Reading, PA
“Enough is enough! They had their chance - now it is time for a change! Government is supposed to be "of the people, for the people" and that means all people - not just the rich, special interest groups.”
Donald Kreger – Tonawanda, NY
“Because the Republicans are destroying our country, if not the world. George Bush is destroying our country, the same as he's destroyed every company he's been in charge of."
Cynthia Capone – Schenectady, NY
“I voted for a change for a myriad of reasons, the war of terror in Iraq, the potential next war in Iran, the needs in America, health care, jobs, education, etc.”
Thomas Burns – Auburn, NY
“This country is so far in debt for this war we and our kids will be paying forever. This country needs a lot of fixing and this money could be used for domestic policies to better the life of Americans.”
Lou/Pam Cicconi – Odessa, NY
“We favor almost all of the "conservative" principles; we feel that the present administration abandoned us, especially in such an arrogant and almost totally self-serving manner.”
Raymond Wilson – Jersey City, NJ
“I voted to change the course because the ship is headed in the wrong direction. We are headed for more wars, more taxes and less pay with bad health plans. We need someone in power to check the President, as he has gone off his rocker and just doesn't care about the average American citizen....My vote, I hope will put someone in his way to have a check and balance for the average working person. I realize that this can't be done overnight but very soon.”
Susan Downey – Manchester, MA
“As an AFSCME member in good standing, I feel that we have been used throughout and as State employees, we should be respected. We have a legal contract and it should be taken seriously when it comes to our monies, and benefits. We shouldn't have to continue to fight for our rights. We are a working force that has families as well as any other American in the United States. Our pensions shouldn't be played around with either. That is monies that we have earned for many years of service and for our retirement.”
C. Richard Jones – Rochester, NY
“I am 69 years old. Social Security provides 36% of our family income. Medicare provides our base medical insurance. We have private insurance coverage with a prescription rider (thank God). The failure of congress to pass a Medicare D prescription rider without a provision to negotiate prices is a tragic joke for our friends."
Randy Umholtz – Lebo, KS
“The country at large needed new leaders to get the country in the right direction.”
Richard Farris – Fairbanks, AK
“I voted a straight Democratic ticket in an effort to change the direction our country is going in. I am very strongly against privatization of the war and of any other privatization of public services. I would like to see war profits come under stricter review and ended. I voted to change the Bush administration's anti labor policies. Finally, I voted to help end this era of lobbyists influence over our national legislation through money.”
Marie Weathers – Lower Lake, CA
“I voted the way I did to hopefully change the course of the American economy. Let us not forget the small people. They support this country with the taxes they pay. I believe the Democratic Party remembers that better than the Republicans. The middle class, what I used to be, is rapidly disappearing from the U.S. We are now part of the poverty class and can't work enough jobs to get back. Raise the wages to give us a hand. The rich do get richer and the poor are getting poorer.”
Asonna Barker – Chicago, IL
“I voted for change to prepare us for a completely new administration with an attitude and a level of commitment that compliments the needs and demands of my generation. I look forward to continuing my progress as a consumer as well as a dedicated health care worker to assist with the needs of my community, my city, and its residents.”
Leland Sigley – Romoland, CA
“I always vote a straight Democratic ticket. The Democratic Party is the most viable labor friendly party we have.”
Pam Jackson – Lakeside, CA
“I voted in the November 2006 election to try to rid California of a corrupt, greedy Governor. I also voted Democrat across the board to do my part to fight to restore workers rights, social justice and true democracy.”
Martha Bolton – Pewaukee, WI
“I feel that we should not be giving jobs away (outsourcing) to other countries. We have people in our country who need jobs and we have got to improve the economy in our own country. We have got to do a better job at finding people jobs who want to work for them."
James Daubert – Madison, WI
“Never before in my 62 year history on this earth have I ever seen more corruption, scandals and robbery of the U.S. Treasury by Politicians who have been able to get into power by taking great amounts of money from the special interest groups including the war profiteers (e.g. defense contractors like Halliburton) for funding their campaigns for public office."
Jean E Dully – Barnegat, NJ
“I voted in order to get a balance of power in the US. I voted in order to stop the job outsourcing to foreign countries, so that, in the near future, we will have jobs here, instead of catching a shuttle to China. I voted to keep our Social Security intact. Private accounts will not work...I voted for the promise that all these things would be done for the people. I pray I did the right thing.”
Sharon Droege – Cameron, WI
“In short, I want drastic changes to the way we accomplish things and I want positive results. I truly believe that if a group of housewives were told they had the country's future in their hands; they could do a better job of budgeting, negotiating, problem solving, and taking care of our nation.”
D'Averil Ibbotson – Hillsboro, OR
“We, the people of the United States, need to return our government to us as soon as possible. We need to stop special interests from taking over the government, and this includes religious groups, corporations, and individuals such as Grover Norquist, Dick Cheney, Jack Abramoff and others of similar designs of self-aggrandizement at our expense. Hopefully, by returning Democrats to power, some of the bad effects of the last 12 years will be turned around, though the damage to our environment and ecology may never be repaired. What needs to happen now is for more people to become educated about what's really happening and to keep a firm grip on the activities of politicians of any party.”
Nancy Drake – Minneapolis, MN
“I voted for a new direction because I believe that Minnesota is on the wrong course in many areas, particularly in the tendency to drive public policy by trying to legislate morality. I detest the right wing agenda of using a few religious hot buttons to get support for their true agenda, which is to get tax breaks for their richest associates. That's why I voted for change.”
Paulette Feld – Oshkosh, WI
“Our Congress person ran without strong opposition as did Senator Kohl. However, elections for State offices were extremely important for all public employees. Our Assembly district was an open race, and it was an opportunity for a labor-friendly candidate to retake a seat that had been in less friendly hands for over 20 years. Also, our choice for Governor was an incumbent who at least would keep the unfriendly legislature in check, versus a candidate who promised public employees that he would support our jobs, but had not proved that in Congress. Since State employees are a large group in our county, it was important for me to vote, but it was also important for me to work for both these candidates and encourage the members of my local and other public employees in the area to vote and support these candidates.”
Marilyn Grendele – Portland, OR
“There are so many reasons to Change the Course I cannot list them all, but Social Security, Health Care, Education, and our Constitutional Rights are of great concern under this administration. We had to have a change.”
Kathy Hass – Orlando, FL
“To get Americans out of Iraq now....to pursue a progressive platform on health, economics, labor, environment and a Department of Peace.”
Dennis Lee Cleven – Madison, WI
“I voted to change the course because the course this current administration has put this country on is the wrong one. Bush and Cheney have divided the people using fear and it is a tactic that I found extremely distasteful....The poor and those in need at home are left without the social services that are sorely needed for survival; yet those services have been drastically cut to support the war. This is unforgivable.”
Candelario Macias – Las Vegas, NV
“I voted for a new change in this country for the reason that this administration was leading us to a broke, unrespected and unethical country. I voted for the first time and I will vote every time for the rest of my life. I wish people would understand the importance of voting because it matters in everything like home, school, job, childhood education, respect for the working class and our family.”
Bill Cadwallader – Auburn, NY
“It's time to end the arrogance. From Washington on down to local races people have had enough of being talked down to.”
Aron Buchanan – Stillwater, MN
“(1) I was against the invasion of Iraq. I do not feel that we should be an occupying force in Iraq while many of the needs (health care, education, etc.) of U.S citizens are unmet. (2) I am in support of Single Payer health care. Republicans do not support this. (3) I feel that government has a role in assisting the neediest citizens. Social services are the services that by and large provide this assistance, and Republicans generally cut social services when they are able.”
Marc Tillman – Albany, NY
“I voted for a new direction because the old direction wasn't and never did work. The Republican Party had lost touch with reality. They were so full of corruption and deceit they actually thought that was a way of life and for them. Hopefully now we will get back to serving the people, instead of them serving each other.”
Michael Fiorella – Buffalo, NY
“I feel Democrats are more sensitive and in touch to the needs of America's working families, than the GOP was, or ever will be. It seems a war has been declared on anyone who enjoys hard earned, union-fought-for benefits.”
Juanita Bentz – Newport, PA
“I attempted to vote for changes last week but I'm not convinced that the few changes made are going to be enough to stop the wrongs in this state and fix anything. I'm tired of seeing millions and millions of dollars from this state go to the wealthiest areas of this state and the areas struggling to make ends meet fall financially even further. Millions of dollars going to communities to build more ball parks and entertainment facilities at the expense of towns who can't afford to fix their water systems, education programs and roads etc.”
June Pinkin – Manchester, CT
“Everything good that this country has stood for is being overturned. The rich are getting richer, the poor are getting poorer, and the right wing fanatics are shoving their religious ‘principles’ down our throats through legislation. We are lied to and spied upon. Our environment is being destroyed, and public lands and waterways are being used for private profit. Good paying jobs go overseas and there is an all out assault on labor in this country. And that is just for starters!”
Stephen Metzger – Chicago, IL
“There is no doubt in my mind that the business community -- for whom the Republicans run political and legislative errands -- would reduce wages and retirement benefits to as close to Asian levels as they can. They refuse to do anything about the growing gap between the superrich and the rest of us. The current administration has demonstrated its incompetence in the Katrina disaster and in the waging of the Iraq war.”
James E. Fisher – Saldotna, AK
“The Bush administration has been incompetent to the detriment within our borders and in the world. The secrecy pervading this administration has illustrated how damaging such practice has been to our national interest.”
Bev Malzahn – Green Bay, WI
“The country needed the change as I view it. One party seems to push the country into a quagmire and one party seems to bring us out of that situation. I am not a party citizen, I am for whoever I feel is best for our country and that is after prayerful meditation and confidence in my faith."
Garry Pirro -- Syracuse, NY
"Economy, healthcare, stop outsourcing jobs, etc."
Beverly Fowlow -- Elma, NY
"Because of the disrespect shown for the people of this nation by the corruption, greed and ineptitude of government leaders. Where are the honest, capable, forward-thinking people of this great country? Hopefully a message has been received by our newly-elected officials. We will not stand for more of the same!"
Jack Schuetter -- Manistique, MI
"I voted Democrat because I believe the party is for the good of America. I've been a Democrat for many years now. I also believe that our Party is here to help the middle class and poor familes who really need help, also seniors who are in real need of change....Keep up the good work. We the American people are behind you."
Robert Fields -- Fond du Lac, WI
"I voted to change the course our country was going in on all levels of goverment. I voted only for candidates that would be concerned about all people in this country and not only the wealthy and superwealthy. "
Yolanda Collins -- Oakland, CA
"I voted for a change because it it my belief that we were long over due for some new thoughts and action. That we deserve better representation and Republicans were not able to see beyond their own (the ultra rich) to see the regular people. They are incapable of being fair or understanding of us simple everyday people."
Yesenia Ortiz -- Bronx, NY
"It was important for me to vote and set an example for my two children on the importance of taking a stand and getting involved. I needed to demonstrate that if you are not happy with the people representing us, instead of complaining about it, get out there and vote. That's our right."
Mary Beth Maruski -- Cohoes, NY
"It is my civic duty. I also consider it an honor to be able to vote. And we needed a new Governor. I am very glad that Elliot Spitzer won."
Peter Thorsen -- Hoyt Lakes, MN
"I am atired of goverment welfare for oil companies who are making record profits at my expense. The middle class is slowly becoming the working poor. We need some help. The democrats must save social security so I can count on it along with my pension and savings for retirement...if I can live that long. We need something to look forward to."
Olivene Davidson -- Bronx, NY
"I was not satisfied with the old and needed something new. I think it was time for a change."
Kay Morr -- Graytown, OH
"It seemed necessary for the everyday people to rise up and say 'Stop it - right now!' I am just an everyday working person who is not asking for a banquet but I do want a balanced meal. I saw the only way to get that was by not only voting myself but also to urge everyone else within hearing to do the right thing and vote your conscience!"
Angelina Ibarguen -- Chula Vista, CA
"I wanted to see this country go in the right direction. I voted Democrat all the way through. I hope now we have control of both Houses of Congress, we will get rid of corruption, deceit, and get a fast solution to the Iraq illegal war. It's time we focus in the domestic problems, which are plenty, jobs, health, education. I hope that as a party in power, we do not fall the way Republicans did."
Shirley Warren -- Troy, NY
"If I didn't vote, I would feel like I don't have the right to complain or voice my opinion. We need a change before this country goes to he** in a hand basket. I have had enough of the system we are living in, we need some changes."
John Solomon -- Brooklyn Center, MN
"I voted for change because we need a better focus for the working person. In recent years we have lost the American perspective on what is important in this country. The wealthy powers of control in this country would like us to be distracted by their needs and wants. We need people in power that will get us back to interests of the American people such as jobs, solid incomes and benefits, health, education, and spending money on our own cities for improvement. This creates jobs for those in need, not big contracts for those in greed...I voted for change because I believe that we can do differently."
Mazda Riazi -- Huntington Station, NY
"This adminstration has made us more vulenarble thant before 9/11. This is because of the arrogant stands that we have in the world. The give away to corporations is another factor for me to kick them out also."
Melvin Lightfoot -- Brooklyn, NY
"I am basically tired of the war and the morale fiber of the Republican Party."
Christine Carletta -- Schenectady, NY
"I definitely voted on Election Day. I always vote...We definitely need the Democratic party to show the American people that they truly stand for 'Democracy'. I hope and pray they can begin to heal this country and bring us back to where the people begin to have a say again."
James O'Donnell -- Smithfield, RI
"I now have hope for the future of our Republic and have a renewed faith in the sense of the American voter. We all have to work together for the sake of our future. The groundwork has been set, now the real work must be done with a renewed sense of hope and the cooperation of all our citizens."
Barbara Nelson -- Oregon, OH
"I have been a registered Republican all my life as was my family, but seeing my husband lose his job last year in a company that desperately needs a union and having worked in a union now for almost 8 years myself it has become clear to me that the Bush administration is doing nothing for the middle class and instead filling the pockets of the rich. I became increasingly frustrated and the more information I received the more disgusted I was and for the first time in my life I voted a straight Democrat ticket all the way across the board. I live in Ohio and I'm thrilled that the majority of Ohioans fee like I do. We want change and we got it."
Dave Bonsell -- Shippensburg, PA
"I wanted people who would vote pro-labor and balance the budget."
Frances VanCoeur -- Womelsdorf, PA
"I voted for a new direction because it is time to stop the war on the middle class. Shipping our blue and white color jobs overseas and refusing to raise the minimum wage are making it practically impossible for the middle class to stay afloat. Companies that take our jobs off-shore are given enormous tax breaks at the expense of the middle class. The government tells us the unemployment rate is at an all-time low, but I know that many have been unemployed so long they are no longer being counted."
Bob Johnson -- Blaine, MN
"You're darn right I voted for change. I felt that this government didn't care about anyone making less than six figures a year. I voted for a change of policy on Iraq, corruption, Katrina, and the direction of this country. While I am still skeptical until something actually gets done with the new powers that be, I am far more hopeful that we can return to the glory days of past. Thank you for your support of pro-labor political parties."
Natalie Williams -- Bronx, NY
"For many years I have voted and never felt that my vote counted, but on November 7, 2006 I felt my voice was heard."
Joan A. Pirozzi -- Whiting, NJ
"I was fed up with incomptence and stupidity. In all the years of my life, I have never know the Republican Party to be for the average person, but for big business and the rich. Hopefully the newly elected party has woken up and will pull together not to make the mistakes the previous Party made in handling world and domestic affairs."
Betty Jimenez -- Lincoln University, PA
"I voted first of all because it's my duty and right as a citizen. If change is to happen we all must do our part and not sit back and wait on other voters, thinking our one vote will not make a difference. I know and I believe one vote can and has made a difference."
Sandy Heffernan -- Marcellus, NY
"I voted for change because I am a single person who needs people who will look out for me for a change...I am hoping that we voted people into office that still remember what 'normal' people live like, not just those with high incomes."
Laura Pletcher -- Stafford, VA
"America is going in the wrong direction. There are people living in poverty near the capital of the free world, Washington, DC, who are working full-time for a minimum wage that is laughable. Many people up here work 2 or 3 jobs at minimum wage in order to support their families."
Libby Rende -- Weston, CT
"The reasons for me were many....I have a very real concern for the financial difficulty I am faced with and the lack of concern by our government. I keep hearing the economy is good but it has not trickled down to me or most other people I know. The high cost of gasoline, the outrageous increase in our electric bills, heating oil, food prices, health insurance premiums and the cost of college tuition has made it impossible to live."
Harry Gima -- Honolulu, HI
"In the state of Hawaii, we needed to vote for all Democrats, which included the governor's race. However, our governor had a $6 million dollar warchest to use and she won. We won all of the congressional seats and many local representatives and senate seats, too. Overall, we did good with the help of the many local unions."
Dawn Roland -- Danville, PA
"Because the rich do not need any more tax breaks. The middle class is carrying the burden for the rich and poor. The poor are ignored and more programs that were formed to help the needy are being cut."
John Macalarney -- Altoona, PA
"Yes. I Voted for change. I voted for a government that has more compassion and understanding for the average person and not large corporations."
Evelyn Crist -- Albany, NY
"Because I feel it is a disgrace to keep seeing the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Not to mention the direction our country is going in. Our government and corporate America seems to have forgotten what is right and what is wrong, along with what is moral, ethical, honest and law abiding!"
Rosalie Harman -- Brooklyn, NY
"I am tired of the War in Iraq. I am tired of pollution. I am tired of unemployment. I am tired of the lies. I would like to see more money given to educate our children. I would like to see an improvement in immigration policy. I would like to see the end of big brother is watching you. Let`s continue to work to make change actually happen."
Shirley Calabrese -- Geneva, NY
"We were going the wrong direction an the rest of the world was losing faith in America due to the Bush policy."
Ed Homeier -- Stelle, IL
"The current Republican administration has a six-year record of errors, lies and destruction of the values that I hold dear. I am particularly angry at the failure to live up to promises to the military, schools, environmental protection, freedom/privacy and financial integrity."
Mike Edie -- Cortland, OH
"I voted for change because the United States of America and the people should come first! To put it bluntly, most members of the Republican Party are oblivious to the needs of the working class or just don't care."
Leslie Magee -- Rockdale, TX
"I was tired of the government doing what they want to help their rich buddies get richer (oil men, large company owners etc.)."
Louise Lindheimer -- Clifton Park, NY
"I feel like we need lots of changes..the war in Iraq is a big thing...I think we should get out of there because the hate us so much..I think they would get along better if we weren't there..there are so many starving people in the world..we should feed people instead of fighting war..I think President Bush is way behind the light house in his way of thinking and doing things."
Armando Ramirez -- Kissimmee, FL
"As far I am concern we should give priority to the 46 millions hard working Americans lacking health insurance, and especially almost fifteen millions children without health care services....I am glad we trew enough of these rascals out of Congress, the next target will be the presidency of the United States."
Sandra Gallo -- Boardman, OH
"Yes I did vote, and I was delighted that we won. I was elated about the minimum wage increase. It should have happened a long time ago."
Roger Harkness -- Oklahoma City, OK
"The rich have become rich enough. Misuse of resources. Stop global warming."
Sue Henricksen -- Bonney Lake, WA
"I have been a union activist for over 20 years. For the last 6 years I have watched my brothers and sisters work two jobs, beg for overtime, and forego medical care due to the current political disregard for the working class of America."
Thomas Scharnott -- Maplewood, MN
"It was not only the fact that union jobs and the labor laws had gone down the proverbial tubes, but the fact that the players in the White House and the Congress thought that they were the only ones who counted."
Ernest Ziegler -- Sunfield, MI
"Voting is not only a right but a duty to accomplish change for the working members of our Union and all other working class families. I voted to help change the direction that has been propegated by the Bush administration."
Audrey Jasinski -- Punta Gorda, FL
"The country needed a new direction. Partisan politics was rampant. Nothing of any significance was being accomplished unless you had the money and influence."
Charles Fisenne -- Bladwin, NY
"I dislike the bad trade agreements, the excess executive compensation including stock options for very large established corporations."
Harry Silberberg -- Miami, FL
"I have been a life-long Democrat. My first vote at the age of 21 was for FDR in 1932. I have sometimes voted for an Independent but never for a Republican. I believe that, at present, most politicians depend on the support of Corporate America and that our form of Government is now a corporate oligarchy. I do not believe there will be much change until we get an able leader in the White House."
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