A CIVIL WAR IN THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY! Oklahoma!

[joni in ok]

Boo and Hiss...
As someone who Believes in the Democratic Wing of the Democratic Party i
find Debbie Leftwich's comments to epitomize the "emulate the republican
strategies in hopes of growth" rather than recognize the true strengths the
Dem's already posess. Hope not Fear is behind Jay Parmley's endorsement of
Howard Dean. Division within the Democratic Party is sad but probably a
necessary tension to strengthen the party.
The grassroots and the vocal active Democrats know we have strength
character and conviction that will strengthen the party and in turn our
country.
I will contact Debbie and let her know that although i respect her decision
to counter Jay's endorsement i find her hiding under the red carpet
distancing counterproductive.
I as a registered Democrat since 1978 have found hope and vision as well as
renewed enthusiasm in Howard Dean's leadership not only in VT but nationally
through Democracy for America and Dean Dozen action network to promote
Democrats for office all across the Country.
Dean's values on health care, senior programs and Especially Education
emulate my and many other democrats vision for OK. I commend Jay Parmley's
endorsement and find it especially telling which Dem's get behind him and
which dem's desert this motion of integrity and conviction that We Can do
Better here in OK!
The action we as Progressive/Liberal Democrats can do Right now in OK will
be forthcoming shortly, this is a battle for the heart and soul or the
"status quo" of Our Party. Do not let this go unanswered.
Joni A. LeViness
American Patriot
Hope Not Fear!



Statement from Senator Debbe Leftwich

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, January 20, 2005

Oklahoma City, OK - In the last twenty-four hours it has been reported that
in my position as Vice-Chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party, I endorsed
Governor Howard Dean (D-VT) in his bid to become the Chairman of the
Democratic National Committee.

I have not endorsed Gov. Dean. In fact, Gov. Dean called me last week
seeking my support. At that time, I indicated that I would not make any
endorsement in the race for DNC Chair. In fact, I will not even be in
attendance at the DNC meeting in February when the Chairman is selected
because of my duties here in the Oklahoma State Senate.

I believe that my name came to be associated with this endorsement by
offering my proxy some time ago to the Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman,
Jay Parmley. Given Mr. Parmley's endorsement of Gov. Dean, he will no longer
hold my proxy. Like most Oklahoma Democrats, I do not believe Gov. Dean
shares our values or is the right person to lead our party at this time.
Additionally, I have asked Gov. Dean to remove my name from his list of
endorsements.

Not Paid for at State Expense