Sunday, December 30, 2012

How are we doing?

Dear MoveOn member,

People have lots of different ideas about what MoveOn.org is, but the answer is actually quite simple: MoveOn is an organization designed to help regular people have a powerful voice in politics.

MoveOn's power and direction come entirely from members like you. The type of work we do together and the issues that we focus on aren't decided by MoveOn's (small) staff, they're decided by MoveOn members.

One of the main ways that happens is using surveys like this one.

Can you take a moment to tell us how you think MoveOn is doing and help set our course together?

http://moveon.org/tracking/index2.html?id=60147-10220574-TxPMj%3Dx&t=1

This particular survey is sent out to a few thousand randomly selected members each week and every MoveOn member receives this survey at least once a year. Your feedback helps the staff understand what members want to work on this week, and how you're feeling about politics and progressive issues.

Your answers will help determine MoveOn's future course of action, so please give the unvarnished truth. If the staff need to be doing better work in a certain area, say so! 

Please fill out the survey here:

http://moveon.org/tracking/index2.html?id=60147-10220574-TxPMj%3Dx&t=2

Thanks for all you do.

–Justin, Stephen, Carrie, Anna, and the rest of the team
  


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 30, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

RE: Drop by on Thursday?

Hi-

Just a reminder that this is happening today—and we need all hands on deck. Can you drop by Rep. McCarthy's local office today with the message: Don't cut Social Security benefits!

Click here to sign up: http://moveon.org/pac/lameduckdropby/index2.html?id=59947-10220574-VKGKwnx&t=1

Here's the address for Rep. McCarthy's office:

300 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530

You'll be joining more than 1,600 other MoveOn members around the country delivering a message to members of Congress on their first day back to work that they must not cut Social Security benefits, and that they must not let the interests of millionaires and billionaires stand in the way of tax cuts for 98% of Americans.

Thanks,

–Frank

P.S. Check out the easy suggestions below for how to deliver your message.


I'm taking action this Thursday to stop Congress from cutting Social Security benefits for me and millions of others. Will you join me by dropping off a message at Rep. McCarthy's office this Thursday? It could be our last chance.

Take action Thursday
Dear fellow MoveOn member,

I've paid into Social Security for more than fifty years. My five children and six grandchildren are paying into Social Security now. I retired ten years ago, and in 2008 and again this year, I campaigned for President Obama. I elected the President, and other Democrats, to protect Social Security and to ask the wealthy to pay their fair share in taxes—not to cave in to Republican demands to cut the benefits that my family, and millions of other families, depend on.

But last week, in fiscal talks with Republican Speaker Boehner, President Obama offered to cut Social Security benefits. Negotiations are still in flux, but there's a real risk that a deal could be struck this week that includes those cuts. Democrats in Congress—whose support is needed to pass a deal—have been split on whether they'd allow Social Security cuts.

This is an unusual time for politics. We're taking much needed holiday breaks. We're traveling. We're holding our family and friends very, very close.

Amid all of this—in fact, because of all of this—on Thursday, I'm walking into my representative's local office with a few friends and family members, and we're delivering a clear message before it's too late: Don't cut Social Security benefits.

I won't sit back and let my Social Security—which I've earned and paid for—be cut. I won't sit back and let my children and grandchildren's Social Security be jeopardized.

Can you join your voice with mine by dropping by Rep. McCarthy's office in Garden City this Thursday?

Yes, I will take action Thursday.

Here's where to go:

300 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530

Members of Congress are home this week for the holidays, and when they head back to Washington on Thursday, they may be asked to vote to cut Social Security. If this happens—and it breaks my heart to think about it—Barack Obama could become the first Democratic president in history to cut this core social insurance program. Even if President Obama is willing for that to be his legacy, I just won't tolerate it—will you?

You don't have to do exactly what I'm doing. But, please do something. This is our last, best chance, and it really is in our hands. Here are a few ideas I've heard for what you can do on Thursday, but really, do whatever moves you:

  • Deliver holiday cards to Rep. McCarthy's office with the message, "I hope this isn't the last holiday card I write you—but it will be if you cut my benefits."
  • Sing different words to holiday songs that carry your message—look online, or make up your own! Or, picket outside the office and call your local TV news station to come along.
  • Bring your family—especially your kids or grandkids if you have them. They'll give punch to your message.
  • If you want to make your message memorable, do something fun and creative. Drop off a bag of nuts (peanuts, pecans, whatever you've got!) at Rep. McCarthy's office with a note saying, "This is nuts! No Social Security cuts!"
I'll be out there Thursday, along with thousands of MoveOn members all across America—will you join us?

Yes, I can take action Thursday.

Again, here's where to go:

300 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530

I'd love to hear what idea you have for Thursday—sign up using the link above and share your idea, or use one I've suggested.

Thank you, and happy holidays,

Frank Burton
MoveOn member
Castro Valley, CA

P.S. New districts and newly-elected members of Congress don't go into effect until January, so the information above is still current.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 27, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Got an idea for a petition?

Dear MoveOn member,

A little over a year ago, MoveOn launched a website called SignOn.org that allows anyone to start their own online petition. And it's been a big success. MoveOn members across the country have started petitions taking on big banks, local city councils, tea party governors—and won.

But there are so many other important fights to take on, and we're counting on regular folks like you take the lead on the issues you care about most. 

So to give you an extra nudge to get started, we're offering a special deal: If you start a petition and get at least 20 people to sign it in the next 5 days, we'll email your petition to at least 1,000 other MoveOn members in your area.

To qualify, your petition has to be consistent with MoveOn's progressive values, and you can't use profanity or anything else MoveOn members would find offensive. Give it a shot, and don't wait—this is a one-time opportunity!

Thanks for all you do.

–Steven, Elena, Stefanie, Bobby, and the rest of the team

Want to support our work? MoveOn Civic Action is entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 25, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Sunday, December 23, 2012

Drop by on Thursday?

I'm taking action this Thursday to stop Congress from cutting Social Security benefits for me and millions of others. Will you join me by dropping off a message at Rep. McCarthy's office this Thursday? It could be our last chance.

Take action Thursday
Dear fellow MoveOn member,

I've paid into Social Security for more than fifty years. My five children and six grandchildren are paying into Social Security now. I retired ten years ago, and in 2008 and again this year, I campaigned for President Obama. I elected the President, and other Democrats, to protect Social Security and to ask the wealthy to pay their fair share in taxes—not to cave in to Republican demands to cut the benefits that my family, and millions of other families, depend on.

But last week, in fiscal talks with Republican Speaker Boehner, President Obama offered to cut Social Security benefits. Negotiations are still in flux, but there's a real risk that a deal could be struck this week that includes those cuts. Democrats in Congress—whose support is needed to pass a deal—have been split on whether they'd allow Social Security cuts.

This is an unusual time for politics. We're taking much needed holiday breaks. We're traveling. We're holding our family and friends very, very close.

Amid all of this—in fact, because of all of this—on Thursday, I'm walking into my representative's local office with a few friends and family members, and we're delivering a clear message before it's too late: Don't cut Social Security benefits.

I won't sit back and let my Social Security—which I've earned and paid for—be cut. I won't sit back and let my children and grandchildren's Social Security be jeopardized.

Can you join your voice with mine by dropping by Rep. McCarthy's office in Garden City this Thursday?

Yes, I will take action Thursday.

Here's where to go:

300 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530

Members of Congress are home this week for the holidays, and when they head back to Washington on Thursday, they may be asked to vote to cut Social Security. If this happens—and it breaks my heart to think about it—Barack Obama could become the first Democratic president in history to cut this core social insurance program. Even if President Obama is willing for that to be his legacy, I just won't tolerate it—will you?

You don't have to do exactly what I'm doing. But, please do something. This is our last, best chance, and it really is in our hands. Here are a few ideas I've heard for what you can do on Thursday, but really, do whatever moves you:

  • Deliver holiday cards to Rep. McCarthy's office with the message, "I hope this isn't the last holiday card I write you—but it will be if you cut my benefits."
  • Sing different words to holiday songs that carry your message—look online, or make up your own! Or, picket outside the office and call your local TV news station to come along.
  • Bring your family—especially your kids or grandkids if you have them. They'll give punch to your message.
  • If you want to make your message memorable, do something fun and creative. Drop off a bag of nuts (peanuts, pecans, whatever you've got!) at Rep. McCarthy's office with a note saying, "This is nuts! No Social Security cuts!"
I'll be out there Thursday, along with thousands of MoveOn members all across America—will you join us?

Yes, I can take action Thursday.

Again, here's where to go:

300 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530

I'd love to hear what idea you have for Thursday—sign up using the link above and share your idea, or use one I've suggested.

Thank you, and happy holidays,

Frank Burton
MoveOn member
Castro Valley, CA

P.S. New districts and newly-elected members of Congress don't go into effect until January, so the information above is still current.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 23, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Friday, December 21, 2012

RE: Obama's heartbreaking Social Security cuts

Hi there—

This week we asked you and other MoveOn members whether MoveOn should make a final push to stop proposed Social Security cuts in the fiscal showdown negotiations. 

As of now, with more than 185,000 votes cast, an overwhelming 96.8% of MoveOn members are in favor. And MoveOn members have already chipped in over $150,000 to enable this work. 

The embarrassing debacle in Congress last night, in which members of Speaker John Boehner's own party undermined him by rejecting his fiscal showdown plan, has weakened Republicans' hand and gives us a new opening to stop this bad deal.

So here's our three-step plan to keep up the pressure:
  1. Show there's not enough support from Democrats in Congress to pass the bad deal reported in the press. 
     
  2. Call on the President to rescind his offer to cut Social Security benefits. 
     
  3. Turn up the heat on Republicans—who are refusing to allow an up-or-down vote in the House on tax cuts for 98% of Americans.
MoveOn members have made this important decision together to go forward with a big, final push against cuts to Social Security including hard-hitting TV ads, on-the-ground events, and other grassroots campaigning—and we'll need at least $200,000 to get noticed. Can you pitch in $5? 


Thanks so much for your input. 

–Justin


Heartbreaking news: To appease Republicans, President Obama has offered to slash Social Security benefits by $112 billion over the coming decade.

If this goes through, Barack Obama will be the first Democratic president in history to cut Social Security benefits.

Should MoveOn make a big final push against any cuts to Social Security? Click a link below to vote:

Dear MoveOn member,

Standing up to a President we fought so hard to elect, right after an election, isn't easy.

Which is why we urgently need your advice.

As part of the ongoing fiscal negotiations in Washington, President Obama has offered a massive concession to Republicans: A deal that would slash Social Security benefits by $112 billion over the next decade. And we have to make a decision right now about what to do.

According to the AARP, "A typical 80-year-old woman will lose the equivalent of 3 months worth of food annually" under this plan.1 

This is a bad deal for current retirees. And it'll hit future retirees even harder, because the proposal cuts Social Security more and more with each passing year. After 10 years, benefits would be cut by about $500 a year for the average retiree. After 20 years, benefits would be cut by about $1,000 a year. And beyond that, it just gets worse.2

But here's the good news: There's still time to block this deal. The U.S. Senate is full of Social Security champions.3 And Social Security is central to the Democratic Party's legacy. 

Still, just like standing up to the President isn't easy for MoveOn members, it isn't easy for Democratic senators. But if Social Security champions who are rejecting this plan in the Senate know we've got their backs, we have a chance to push President Obama to do the right thing.

So we have a decision to make right now: Should MoveOn keep standing with champions of Social Security and make a big final push to oppose any cuts?

"Yes. Let's make a big final push to stop the proposed cuts to Social Security."

"No. I don't think we should do that." (And tell us why.)

If we do this, here's what we have in mind:

  • We have a powerful TV ad that we can run in the states of vulnerable Senators who are up for re-election.
  • We'll make sure that champions of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid know we have their backs, by publicly thanking them and running ads in support of their leadership.
  • We'll continue to remind Democrats that MoveOn-backed primary challenges for those who vote to slash our social safety net are a real possibility.
  • We'll organize on-the-ground events at district offices, while Senators are home this week. 
  • And we'll continue jamming phone lines in Congress and the White House, flooding offices with petitions, and doing whatever else we can to show significant opposition to any deal that cuts Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid.

Click to vote on our plan:

"Yes. Let's make a big final push to stop the proposed cuts to Social Security."

"No. I don't think we should do that." (And tell us why.)

Last time there was talk of a "grand bargain," progressives united behind a simple message: No cuts to Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid. And, after a long fight, we won.

This is not necessarily an easy choice, though. If there's agreement on a "grand bargain," President Obama will use the power of his office to try and sell it to the American people. Going up against that is hard. It will require significant resources. And of course, we just got done making a major financial investment to win his election.

So it's up to you. Thanks so much for your input.

–Justin, Vicki, Garlin, Ilya, and the rest of the team

Sources:

1. "AARP to Congress and the President: Don't Cut Social Security," AARP, December 18, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285712&id=59693-10220574-GtTAhhx&t=8

2. "Social Security COLA Cut," Strengthen Social Security, December 18, 2012
http://strengthensocialsecurity.org/colacut

3. "Harry Reid: 'We Are Not Going To Mess With Social Security'," Huffington Post, November 8, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285713&id=59693-10220574-GtTAhhx&t=9

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 21, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Promise yourself that you won't stop acting

This is a promise, not a petition.

It's a promise to not to let up until we make our communities safer and change our gun laws and gun culture. Will you commit to keep taking action to reduce gun violence until we get meaningful change?


Make the Commitment

Dear Inwood MoveOn member,

Every time something like the tragic shootings in Newtown, CT, happens, there's a quick, huge outcry for things to change. The problem is that, almost every time, the momentum peters out, the call to action goes silent, and nothing changes.

This time, let's do something different. Let's make a promise to keep working together and not let the status quo win again. If we each make a promise now, and keep taking action until we get the change we want, we can change our gun laws and our gun culture.

So can you step up? Commit today to take action at least once per month against gun violence in your community. That could mean calling Congress or President Obama, attending a local organizing meeting, or signing and sharing a petition. 

Whatever you choose, commit to doing something. Your community as well as the families of the 34 people who die every day to gun violence1 need you to act now and keep on acting.

Click here to commit to taking action against gun violence in your community.

You'll be joining thousands of other Americans who are also promising to keep pushing for change.

Thanks for all you do.

–Garlin, Milan, Mariana, Elena, and the rest of the team

P.S. Tonight, people from all over the country will get on the phone to share their commitment to ending gun violence and make plans for action in early January and beyond. Sign up join tonight's call and get started.

Source:

1. "Mayor Bloomberg joins forces with gun violence survivors and the families of shooting victims to demand tougher gun laws," New York Daily News, December 17, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285720&id=59648-10220574-a5SIonx&t=4

Want to support our work? MoveOn Civic Action is entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 20, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Obama's heartbreaking Social Security cuts

Heartbreaking news: To appease Republicans, President Obama has offered to slash Social Security benefits by $112 billion over the coming decade.

If this goes through, Barack Obama will be the first Democratic president in history to cut Social Security benefits.

Should MoveOn make a big final push against any cuts to Social Security? Click a link below to vote:

Dear MoveOn member,

Standing up to a President we fought so hard to elect, right after an election, isn't easy.

Which is why we urgently need your advice.

As part of the ongoing fiscal negotiations in Washington, President Obama has offered a massive concession to Republicans: A deal that would slash Social Security benefits by $112 billion over the next decade. And we have to make a decision right now about what to do.

According to the AARP, "A typical 80-year-old woman will lose the equivalent of 3 months worth of food annually" under this plan.1 

This is a bad deal for current retirees. And it'll hit future retirees even harder, because the proposal cuts Social Security more and more with each passing year. After 10 years, benefits would be cut by about $500 a year for the average retiree. After 20 years, benefits would be cut by about $1,000 a year. And beyond that, it just gets worse.2

But here's the good news: There's still time to block this deal. The U.S. Senate is full of Social Security champions.3 And Social Security is central to the Democratic Party's legacy. 

Still, just like standing up to the President isn't easy for MoveOn members, it isn't easy for Democratic senators. But if Social Security champions who are rejecting this plan in the Senate know we've got their backs, we have a chance to push President Obama to do the right thing.

So we have a decision to make right now: Should MoveOn keep standing with champions of Social Security and make a big final push to oppose any cuts?

"Yes. Let's make a big final push to stop the proposed cuts to Social Security."

"No. I don't think we should do that." (And tell us why.)

If we do this, here's what we have in mind:

  • We have a powerful TV ad that we can run in the states of vulnerable Senators who are up for re-election.
  • We'll make sure that champions of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid know we have their backs, by publicly thanking them and running ads in support of their leadership.
  • We'll continue to remind Democrats that MoveOn-backed primary challenges for those who vote to slash our social safety net are a real possibility.
  • We'll organize on-the-ground events at district offices, while Senators are home this week. 
  • And we'll continue jamming phone lines in Congress and the White House, flooding offices with petitions, and doing whatever else we can to show significant opposition to any deal that cuts Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid.

Click to vote on our plan:

"Yes. Let's make a big final push to stop the proposed cuts to Social Security."

"No. I don't think we should do that." (And tell us why.)

Last time there was talk of a "grand bargain," progressives united behind a simple message: No cuts to Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid. And, after a long fight, we won.

This is not necessarily an easy choice, though. If there's agreement on a "grand bargain," President Obama will use the power of his office to try and sell it to the American people. Going up against that is hard. It will require significant resources. And of course, we just got done making a major financial investment to win his election.

So it's up to you. Thanks so much for your input.

–Justin, Vicki, Garlin, Ilya, and the rest of the team

Sources:

1. "AARP to Congress and the President: Don't Cut Social Security," AARP, December 18, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285712&id=59599-10220574-%3DymEAHx&t=7

2. "Social Security COLA Cut," Strengthen Social Security, December 18, 2012
http://strengthensocialsecurity.org/colacut

3. "Harry Reid: 'We Are Not Going To Mess With Social Security'," Huffington Post, November 8, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285713&id=59599-10220574-%3DymEAHx&t=8

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 19, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Calls needed now: Don't mess with Social Security

Senate Democrats have the power to stop the bad deal that appears to be moving today in Washington. Can you call Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer and ask them: Can I count on you to do everything in your power to stop this deal if it includes the reported cuts to Social Security benefits? 

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Phone: (202) 224-4451

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Report Your Calls!
Dear New York MoveOn member,

I'll cut right to the chase: The fiscal deal taking shape right now isn't good. To stop it, we need to act fast.

The deal the media reports President Obama and Republican John Boehner appear close to striking includes a change to Social Security that amounts to benefit cuts "of more than 5 percent and more as the years go by."1,2 For millions of seniors living on a fixed income, that 5 percent goes to crucial medicine, food, and daily necessities. And the deal would leave in place some of the Bush Tax Cuts for the top 2% that President Obama previously promised to oppose.

The good news is that we really do have a chance at stopping this bad deal. After Democrats picked up five Senate seats in the election last month, Senate Leader Harry Reid said, "We are not going to mess with Social Security."3 If we let him and other senators know we've got their backs, we'll have a chance—but we need to act right now since final negotiations may be happening today!

Can you call Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer right now and ask them:

"Senate Democrats have been vocal opponents of cuts to Social Security benefits. Can I count on you to do everything in your power to stop this deal if it includes the reported cuts to Social Security benefits?"

Here's where to call:

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Phone: (202) 224-4451

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Then, please report your calls by clicking here:

http://pol.moveon.org/call?tg=FSNY_2.FSNY_1&cp_id=1863&id=59526-10220574-bGAgTNx&t=2

For months, MoveOn members like you have been unified and clear about what we expect from any fiscal deal: no benefit cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, and the wealthiest 2%—those making $250,000 or more per year—should be asked to pay the taxes they paid during the Clinton years.

The deal on the table right now meets neither of those goals, and by focusing on Senate Democrats, we have the power to stop it. Twenty-nine Senators recently signed a letter that says clearly, "we will oppose including Social Security cuts for future or current beneficiaries in any deficit reduction package.4" We need to let them know we're watching closely and we support them. Can you make a quick call right away?

Again, here's where to call:

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Phone: (202) 224-4451

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Ask: "Can I count on you to do everything in your power to stop this deal if it includes the reported cuts to Social Security benefits?"

Then, please report your calls by clicking here:

http://pol.moveon.org/call?tg=FSNY_2.FSNY_1&cp_id=1863&id=59526-10220574-bGAgTNx&t=3

Thanks for all you do.

–Ilya, Mark, Victoria, Carrie, and the rest of the team

Sources:

1. "A 'fiscal cliff' deal is near: Here are the details," The Washington Post, December 17, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285666&id=59526-10220574-bGAgTNx&t=4

2. "What is 'chained CPI?'" The Washington Post, December 17, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285669&id=59526-10220574-bGAgTNx&t=5

3. "Senate Democrats won't 'mess with Social Security': Reid," Reuters, November 7, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285670&id=59526-10220574-bGAgTNx&t=6

4. "Do Not Cut Social Security," Senator Bernie Sanders, September 20, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285668&id=&id=59526-10220574-bGAgTNx&t=8

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 18, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Monday, December 17, 2012

TODAY: Call Sen. Schumer and demand filibuster reform

Will you call Sen. Schumer? Tell him: "Support Sen. Reid's changes to the filibuster rules so that senators can't hold up bills in private."  

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Report Your Call!

Dear MoveOn member,

The Senate was designed to be a deliberative body. But these days, it has become the place where Republicans—who are abusing current Senate rules—can stop any and all policy from moving forward by filibustering everything.

That means no progress on gun safety, job creation, nominations to the cabinet or the courts, nothing...unless we move fast to change things right now.

Senate Democrats are meeting tomorrow to set the rules for the next Senate session—this includes possible filibuster reform. The proposals would limit filibuster use and make it so that senators can no longer hold up a bill in private. A senator who wants to block a bill will need to physically stand on the Senate floor and keep talking to delay a vote.

Will you call Senator Charles Schumer TODAY and tell him to support these changes to the filibuster? Sen. Schumer needs to hear from constituents before tomorrow's meeting that we will no longer tolerate Senate inaction on the most important issues of our time, and that fixing these rules could end Republican obstructionism. 

Here's where to call:

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Then, please report your call by clicking here:

http://pol.moveon.org/call?tg=FSNY_1&cp_id=1861&id=59476-10220574-_MGkzZx&t=2

Thanks for all you do.

–Ilya, Susannah, Stefanie, Garlin, and the rest of the team

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 17, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Sunday, December 16, 2012

Gun Control. Now.

Below is an email from Staci Sarkin, a MoveOn member in New York City, who created a petition on SignOn.org in response to the tragic shooting at an elementary school in Connecticut. Stacy's petition has been been spreading rapidly over email and social media, so we wanted to pass it along right away. If you have concerns or feedback about this petition, click here.


Dear New York MoveOn member,

On December 14, 2012, at least one gunman entered the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut and opened fire, killing what is currently being reported as a minimum of 27 people, 20 of whom were children. Completely innocent unarmed victims. 

Columbine. Red Lake Minnesota. Essex Vermont. Lancaster. Virginia Tech. To name a few.

How many more innocents must die at the hands of an antiquated and oft-misinterpreted amendment? Enough.

It's time to stop the violence. That's why I created a petition on SignOn.org to Congress and President Obama, which says:

Our second amendment rights are long overdue a reevaluation. How many more senseless and entirely PREVENTABLE shootings have to occur before we do something about Gun Control?

As a citizen and constituent of this great country, I am asking that you take a firm stand and make a positive change by restricting access to guns and saving lives.

I don't have a gun. I don't want a gun. I don't need a gun. But somehow the guns always wind up in the hands of people crazy enough to use them irresponsibly and dangerously. This HAS TO BE STOPPED.

Click here to add your name to this petition, and then pass it along to your friends.

Thank you for your support.

–Staci Sarkin

This petition was created on SignOn.org, the progressive, nonprofit petition site. SignOn.org is sponsored by MoveOn Civic Action, which is not responsible for the contents of this or other petitions posted on the site. Staci Sarkin didn't pay us to send this email—we never rent or sell the MoveOn.org list.

Want to support our work? MoveOn Civic Action is entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 16, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Today: Vigil to end gun violence in Brooklyn


 
Candlelight Vigil to End Gun Violence 
Today in Brooklyn 

Host: Emmy G.

Where: Underwood Park at Waverly and Lafayette (in Brooklyn)

When: Saturday, Dec. 15, at 5:00 PM

Can you come?
Click below for more details and to RSVP:

Yes, I'll be there!
I can come.

I can't make it.
Sorry, I can't make it, but I want to help end gun violence.

What: Friday's school massacre in Connecticut is a national tragedy. Lori Haas, whose daughter survived the shooting rampage at Virginia Tech five years ago, has called for candlelight vigils today to remember the victims and say "Enough! End gun violence now." We'll gather at schools, parks, and other public locations to mourn, build community, and stand together for an end to gun violence. Can you join us in Brooklyn today? 

P.S. Can't make this event? Here are a few other events near you:

Candlelight Vigil 
JJ Byrne Playground/Old Stone House, Brooklyn at 4:00 PM—RSVP

Candlelight Vigil 
McCarren Park, Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY, Brooklyn at 5:00 PM—RSVP

Candlelight Vigil 
Dean Street Playground near 6th avenue, Brooklyn at 5:00 PM—RSVP

Candlelight Vigil 
athens square park, Astoria at 5:00 PM—RSVP

 


This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 15, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Friday, December 14, 2012

Urgent: Host a vigil to end gun violence in Inwood Saturday


Dear MoveOn member,

Today we are all witness to an unspeakable tragedy.

Five years ago, my daughter Emily was in French class at Virginia Tech when a gunman opened fire, killing her teacher and 11 of her friends and classmates. Emily was shot twice in the back of the head, but survived. We can't let this continue.

Now is the time for neighbors to comfort one another, keep the victims of the Connecticut tragedy in our hearts, and call for a plan to end gun violence. I personally will be demanding a plan to end gun violence—condolences are not enough. By coming together and lifting our voices, we can help prevent this from ever happening again.

Tomorrow at 5 p.m., I'm hosting a candlelight vigil in my neighborhood in Richmond, Virginia. I hope others around the country will join me and make this a national moment of mourning, reflection, and resolve to act.  

Can you host a vigil in your community tomorrow evening, Saturday, December 15, around 5 p.m., to remember the victims and call for a plan?

Yes, I can host a candlelight vigil.

A local school or a neighborhood park—places that should be safe for our children—are good locations for your vigil. You can bring family and friends, and MoveOn staff will help recruit other members who are seeking a quiet place to gather in community—parents, grandparents, teachers, children, neighbors. 

Today, President Obama's press secretary said that "Now is not [the] time" to act to prevent gun violence. Mr. President, today IS the day to talk about the deadly toll of gun violence on American families, communities, and especially, our kids. I personally am demanding a plan from the President so no more children will experience this kind of tragedy.

Please—join me and host a candlelight vigil in your neighborhood tomorrow.

Sign up to host a vigil by clicking here.

Thank you,

Lori Haas, mother of a Virginia Tech survivor


This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 14, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Breaking: Dems gain strength on Medicare

When our leaders do right by us, we want them to know we appreciate it. Can you call Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and thank her for publicly committing to defend Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security from benefit cuts?  

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Phone: (202) 224-4451

Report Your Call!
Dear New York MoveOn member,

BREAKING: According to the Associated Press, Senate leader Dick Durbin just announced that President Obama is no longer considering one of Republicans' major demands to cut Medicare benefits: raising the Medicare eligibility age.1 If it's true, this is huge news and means that Democrats are standing strong.

This didn't just happen by itself. We rallied in cities and towns across the country on Monday to get Senators on board to defend Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security from benefit cuts, and all week we've flooded Senate offices with thousands of phone calls. Congress and the media are noticing. 

Your senator, Kirsten Gillibrand, has already made a public commitment to defend working families and oppose any cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security benefits—giving her champion status. Champions like Sen. Gillibrand have our backs—so we need to make sure they know we've got theirs. If we can let Sen. Gillibrand know that we're behind her, she'll stand stronger, and be an example to other Senators who are wavering.

Can you call Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and thank her?

You can say: "Thank you Senator for your commitment to oppose any benefit cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. Keep up the great work. We've got your back!"

Here's where to call:

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Phone: (202) 224-4451

Then, please report your call by clicking here:

http://pol.moveon.org/call?tg=FSNY_2&cp_id=1860&id=59287-10220574-1kKFE_x&t=2

If other Senators see that they'll get noticed and thanked by constituents if they publicly reject benefits cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security, they will be more likely to join Sen. Gillibrand. 

And we need more Senators on board.3 If Senate Democrats buckle now to Republican demands, seniors will lose the care they need, and families living in poverty will be forced to choose between food and rent. We can't let that happen—can you make a quick call?

Again, here's where to call:

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Phone: (202) 224-4451

"Thank you Senator for your commitment to oppose any benefit cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. We've got your back!"

Then, please report your call by clicking here:

http://pol.moveon.org/call?tg=FSNY_2&cp_id=1860&id=59287-10220574-1kKFE_x&t=3

Thanks for all you do.

–Ilya, Stefanie, Milan, Victoria, and the rest of the team

P.S. Yesterday, we launched No Benefit Cuts, a public tally of Senate Democrats' positions on defending Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security from benefit cuts, along with our friends at Action for the Common Good, Campaign for America's Future, Campaign for a Fair Settlement, Campaign for Community Change, Color of Change, CREDO Action, Democracy for America, Global Policy Solutions, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, Progressive Change Campaign Committee, Progressives United, Rebuild the Dream, Social Security Works, USAction, US Labor Against the War, and Vote Mob. Your senator is listed with the Champions. Check out the No Benefit Cuts public tally, then call and thank Sen. Gillibrand: https://pol.moveon.org/fiscal-showdown-whip/index.html?id=59287-10220574-1kKFE_x&t=4

Sources:

1. "Durbin: White House won't increase Medicare age," Associated Press, Dec. 13, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285248&id=59287-10220574-1kKFE_x&t=5

2. "Defense, CEOs Push Budget Deal as Labor Invokes Scrooge," Bloomberg News, Dec. 11, 2012
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=285240&id=59287-10220574-1kKFE_x&t=6

3. "No Benefit Cuts: Citizens' Vote Count," accessed Dec. 13, 2012
https://pol.moveon.org/fiscal-showdown-whip/index.html?id=59287-10220574-1kKFE_x&t=7

 

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 13, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

One woman's powerful message to her Democratic senator about the trust she's given him

Dear New York MoveOn member,

As reports come in from Washington that some Democrats are considering caving to Republican demands to cut Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security, MoveOn members are stepping up their game in inspiring ways to make sure that doesn't happen. Yesterday, thousands of MoveOn members rallied at the offices of Democrats and Republicans alike, demanding an end to the Bush tax cuts for the top 2% and that Congress keep its hands off Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.

Today, Susan—a brave MoveOn member from New York—is hitting the New York airwaves with a powerful new TV ad with a message for Senator Charles Schumer. Susan has one clear message: Stand up for us.

Watch Susan tell her moving story and share it with everyone you know.

Thanks for all you do.

–Ilya, Victoria, Garlin, Wes, and the rest of the team

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 11, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Call now: Stop Medicare cuts

Can you call your Democratic Senator? Ask him:  

"Do you commit to oppose any benefit cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid?" 

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Report Your Call!
Dear New York MoveOn member,

President Obama and Democrats in the Senate are standing firm on their commitment to end the Bush Tax Cuts for the wealthiest 2%. But they're all over the place when it comes to protecting Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security—and that's unacceptable. 

It's unacceptable to MoveOn members like Catherine W. in North Carolina who wrote in with this personal story:

"I had taught elementary school for 25 years when the brain tumor was discovered. My craniotomy left me disabled. I shudder to think what would have become of me and my family had it not been for Social Security Disability and Medicare. Please do not cut the programs that have given me back life."

Some Senators, like Bernie Sanders and Tom Harkin, are on the record as standing strong.1 But others, like Senator Charles Schumer, have yet to publicly commit to do right by Catherine and the majority of Americans who voted last month to protect our social safety net. So we're joining with progressive allies to get every single Senate Democrat on the record, and we'll make that information accessible to MoveOn members, the media, bloggers, and the public so that we can hold each Senator accountable.

Can you help get Sen. Schumer on the record by calling now and asking him:

"Do you commit to oppose any benefit cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid?"

Here's where to call:

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Then, please report your call by clicking here:

http://pol.moveon.org/call?tg=FSNY_1&cp_id=1852&id=59107-10220574-Njhdagx&t=2

When you call, you'll be gathering important information on where Senate Democrats stand, and we'll use that knowledge to prepare a public scorecard of who's a champion for working families, who's wavering, and who's just plain weak-kneed. Then we'll focus our grassroots pressure on wavering Senators to build a bulwark in the Senate against any demands to cut benefits.

You'll be adding your voice to those of thousands of other MoveOn members making calls and rallying at Senators' and Representatives' offices today. Too many Democrats have been skirting the issue for too long, and it's time we get them on the record.

Can you call your Senator now and ask him to commit to oppose any cuts to Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid benefits?

Here's the info to make your call:

Senator Charles Schumer
Phone: (202) 224-6542

Then, please report your call by clicking here:

http://pol.moveon.org/call?tg=FSNY_1&cp_id=1852&id=59107-10220574-Njhdagx&t=3

Thanks for all you do.

–Ilya, Stefanie, Milan, Victoria, and the rest of the team

Sources:

1. "Senate liberals to Obama: 'Don't buckle' on cliff," Politico, November 14, 2012, http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1112/83890.html

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 10, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Sunday, December 9, 2012

Sen. Schumer: New Yorkers are counting on you

Below is an email from Jamie Kemmerer, a MoveOn member in Brooklyn who created a petition on SignOn.org, the nonprofit site that allows anyone to start their own online petition. Jamie is delivering this petition to Sen. Schumer's local office tomorrow, so please sign and share right away.


Dear New York MoveOn member,

The middle class has been bearing the burden of our nation's economic struggles—we should not also bear the burden of the trickle-down deficit. Our social safety net is sacred. Tax fairness is the American way. Investing in jobs and middle class wages is the true priority of the day.

That's why I created a petition on SignOn.org to our U.S. Senator, Charles Schumer, which says:

Senator Schumer, we urge you to stand up for us and future generations and make sure any fiscal deal reached ends the Bush tax cuts for the top 2% AND protects Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefits from any cuts. This is what we voted for in November, and we expect you, our elected official, to vote the same way.

Click here to add your name to this petition, and then pass it along to your friends.

Thanks!

–Jamie Kemmerer

This petition was created on SignOn.org, the progressive, nonprofit petition site. SignOn.org is sponsored by MoveOn Civic Action, which is not responsible for the contents of this or other petitions posted on the site. Jamie Kemmerer didn't pay us to send this email—we never rent or sell the MoveOn.org list.

Want to support our work? MoveOn Civic Action is entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 9, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Saturday, December 8, 2012

RE: Monday in Manhattan: Tell Congress to Stand Up!

Dear MoveOn member, 

Congress may be just days from going home with or without a deal to resolve the fiscal showdown. 

The latest news reports indicate that Republicans are still willing to raise taxes on working families by as much as $2,000, and are proposing devastating benefit cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. 

Dozens of national and state-based allies are pulling together for a massive day of action this Monday, December 10—before it's too late.

Martha R., a local MoveOn member, is organizing a rally on December 10 at 5:00 PM in Manhattan. We need a massive crowd so that our elected officials and the local press get the message. Can you make it?


For more details about the rally, check the invitation below.

Thanks for all you do.

–Ilya, Jessica, Mariana, Alejandro, and the rest of the team


You're Invited:
Fiscal Showdown: 
Monday in Manhattan 

Host: Martha R.

Where: Senator Schumer's office in midtown (in Manhattan)

When: Monday, Dec. 10, at 5:00 PM

Can you come?
Click below for more details and to RSVP:

Yes, I'll be there!
I can come.

I can't make it.
Sorry, I can't make it, but I'm interested in getting more updates.

WhatRepublicans and some Democrats are playing political games that could cause more taxes for the middle and working class and cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits. MoveOn members are speaking out and demanding an end to the Bush tax cuts for the top 2% and protection for crucial social programs. We'll be speaking out, sharing personal stories, and calling on members of Congress to stand up for the masses—not millionaires. Can you join us to rally and speak out in Manhattan on Monday?

P.S. Can't make this event? Click here to find another event near you.

 

Want to support our work? We're entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


PAID FOR BY MOVEON.ORG POLITICAL ACTION, http://pol.moveon.org/. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 8, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.

Friday, December 7, 2012

Applebee's vs. ObamaCare

Below is an email from Dan Haney, a MoveOn member in Philadelphia who created a petition on SignOn.org, the nonprofit, progressive petition site. If you have concerns or feedback about this petition, click here.



Sign the petition

Dear MoveOn member,

Immediately after the election, executives and franchise owners from Papa John's, Olive Garden, and Applebee's all threatened to cut employees' hours to avoid paying for the Affordable Care Act's insurance requirement.

Since then, a grassroots backlash has forced the owners of Papa John's and Olive Garden to back off these threats and commit not to manipulate workers' hours to deny them health care.

That's great! But now we need to make sure Applebee's does the same, because if any company gets away with cutting their workers' hours to avoid ObamaCare, it's only a matter of time before the rest of corporate America does it too.

Click here to tell Applebee's to publicly commit not to dodge ObamaCare by cutting workers' hours.

That's why I created a petition on SignOn.org to the CEOs of Applebee's, which says:

We will not patronize your businesses if you go ahead with cutting your employees' hours because of ObamaCare. By doing this, you are showing America that you don't care about the health and welfare of your hard-working and loyal employees who help make your companies successful, making you billions. Keep this in mind: If your employees don't have health care in order to get well when they do get sick, those same employees come to work sick and can pass their illnesses on to us as they prepare or serve our food. They often don't have paid sick days and can't afford to miss a day of work to get better.

Click here to add your name to this petition, and then pass it along to your friends.

Thanks!

–Dan Haney

This petition was created on SignOn.org, the progressive, nonprofit petition site. SignOn.org is sponsored by MoveOn Civic Action, which is not responsible for the contents of this or other petitions posted on the site. Dan Haney didn't pay us to send this email—we never rent or sell the MoveOn.org list.

Want to support our work? MoveOn Civic Action is entirely funded by our 7 million members—no corporate contributions, no big checks from CEOs. And our tiny staff ensures that small contributions go a long way. Chip in here.


This email was sent to eddie alfaro on December 7, 2012. To change your email address or update your contact info, click here. To remove yourself from this list, click here.