As I've gained experience as a candidate, I've come to understand very well that the political establishment judges candidates solely on their ability to raise funds. I understand the importance of funding (I really do). It's what every candidate needs to reach out to voters, to get their message out.
But the number that really counts isn't the number of dollars raised, it's the number of donors, voters really, who support you. While the establishment judges our campaign on dollars, I'll judge it on donors. And we're strong.
We exceeded our fundraising goal, thanks to the readers on DailyKos who brought in over $9000 in online donations in less than 24 hours. Thank you for making that happen, for illustrating that the real power in politics lies with the people. It's people like you that inspired me to run for office in the first place. And the support of so many people -- almost 1000 small donors contributed in the last quarter -- it's your support that keeps me going. I wrote yesterday that your outpouring of support made me feel like George in It's a Wonderful Life. I still feel the encouragement, unity, and hope you gave me.
I hope that the establishment will go from dollars to donors when it judges the strength of a campaign, that they take into account the enthusiasm and commitment of our donor base. I well know how important money is in winning a campaign. In 2004, I came close to winning the seat on a shoestring budget. This year, I'll be facing a well-financed opponent for an open seat the Republicans desperately want to keep. Campaign finance can make the difference in whether we win. That's why your support is so important, so inspiring. Why I hope that you'll continue to contribute to this campaign as we continue the fight to reclaim District Six.
As we campaign this summer, I'll keep reaching out to people. I'll keep listening. If I'm going to represent my district in Congress, to be their voice, then I need to hear what they have to say. I'm listening to them at house parties and community events. I'm listening in our Conversations with Christine series, where community members come together to share their ideas on the issues of our times - education, the economy, health care. And I'm listening here, on DailyKos, where I get daily encouragement at the commitment and passion you show. Thank you for staying involved, for keeping your passion, for inspiring us all. Thank you for inspiring me
Christine Cegelis