Dot's Fundraiser...

Gary Binderim and Dot Nelson-Turnier

You know, there's nothing that annoys me more than all those "insider" fundraising groups that choose the candidates to support by "tier." I understand, they want to give all the money to those they feel "have a shot." Nonetheless, by not supporting those candidates that had the guts to take on entrenched, comfortable Republicans, they are doing a disservice to the entire Party. Of course, I enjoy working on campaigns considered 2nd or 3rd tier and that get little support from "insiders." Why? Because one can create new ideas, new methods of doing things, instead of doing the tired same old thing. And usually, it is these ideas that become part of the "plan" in later campaigns. Anyway...

I must say that one of the most resourceful first-time candidates in state races, and of benefit to the entire Party, will be Dot Nelson-Turnier, candidate for HD-150. She's taking on Debbie "pits of hell" Riddle in this northern Harris County district. I had the honor of attending the event, which attracted some core supporters, including Stephen David of the Filipino American Caucus for Empowerment, Gary Binderim, candidate for Congress, District 2, and some of the hardest working ground activists I've seen (including leaders and members of the Spring Democrats).

Dot gave us a presentation on the upcoming Special Session, and the nuances regarding education finance. Basically, the TTRC plan will fall apart because of those more interested in using a surplus that may or may not exist for the tax relief being promised. At the same time, education reform is not under consideration. What is to come? Hard-core Republicans will want to tax the poor or cut education, health care and other needed programs more--their goal is the continued starving of programs that benefit those with various needs, while protecting the wealthy and corporate interests.

Dot disagrees with any plan that calls for a so-called "sin tax" since it does not assure a stable flow of income. More than anything, Dot pointed out the biggest problem with the plan--IT ONLY COVERS THE NEXT TWO YEARS...what then? While the Chron covers the Harris County delegation, this little known fact is not even mentioned.

The research that Dot and her staff will be working on will be a great resource to candidates in the area. I know she'll be a great resource to the Binderim campaign, and we'll do our best to return the favor. That's what this campaign is about--Democrats helping Democrats to strenthen the base and attract new voters to the Party.

I enjoyed attending the event--good food and killer margs! Met some great people. As always, lots of ideas being thrown around. But think I speak on behalf of most candidates--ideas are great, but GOTV is even more important!

Thanks to Perry and Sue Dorrell for the marg that basically put me away for the evening. I'm talking FISH BOWL margs, gente! If ever you are on 1960 in the Spring area, head on over to Arcos--1960 and Aldine Westfield. Good times, good stuff.

The best of luck to Dot and everyone taking on these tired Republicans!