Ever since I made an early $250 contribution to her first Congressional I have received constant fundraising pitches from Kirsten Gillibrand -- the New York State Blue Dog who accepted an appointment from Governor Paterson with Al D'Amato at her side.
In her latest email pitch, Kirsten overtly suggests that by raising lots of money, she can deter others from challenging her in the upcoming primary:
This is an incredibly important event for my first quarter and the 2010 election. The political calculations of my opponents will be made based on the support I show this quarter.
As a lifelong Democrat who believes that campaign finance issues are a root cause of our political problems, this is not exactly my idea of how the democratic system should work, or how reform-minded Democrats should talk to supporters.
The principled (and ultimately more effective) way to discourage others from challenging you in the primary is to be a leader of vision, competence and integrity -- not by using your seat as a cash machine to scare off opponents.
Full fundraising message below.
From: "kgillibrand@att.blackberry.net "
Date: March 3, 2009 12:13:14 PM EST
Subject: Help Needed!
Reply-To: kg@kirstengillibrand.com
Good afternoon!
I hope this finds you well. Thank you for your friendship and consistent support. Our event with President Clinton is coming up next week on March 11th. This is an incredibly important event for my first quarter and the 2010 election. The political calculations of my opponents will be made based on the support I show this quarter. I need your continued support today. The difference between a strong filing and a weak one will hinge on the work we do this month.
We need to raise an additional $50,000 before March 11th, and to do so I am hoping you will reach out to folks in your network - your friends, colleagues and family.
Please give all that you can now – there is no more important time. If your personal maximum is $250, $500, $1,000, or the federal max of $4,8000 per person, please give it towards this event.
Event Details - www.kirstengillibrand.com
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
The Home of Dennis and Karen Mehiel
3 East 95th (between 5th and Madison Avenues)
New York City
Your support for this event this crucial. Please call Emily Berman at 917-209-4757 for additional details. Thank you so much – our success depends on you!
Kirsten
Sent via Blackberry by AT&T
Paid for by Gillibrand for Senate
PO Box 1279
Hudson, NY 12534