The election is still close and it's all coming down to those "battleground states." I wouldn't be able to live with myself if the Republicans win again, not to mention the fact that Barack Obama is one of the most intelligent, inspiring, and empowering candidates I've ever seen! I truly believe that when he gets elected, our country will change for the better. So, I'm heading off to a battleground state. I live in California, and the nearest battleground state is Nevada, but it's pretty well covered by other volunteers (mostly from California). Looks like I'm more needed in New Mexico. I've been in touch with Obama's New Mexico HQ in Albuquerque, and they need some help with organizing events, organizing other volunteers, and making sure Obama supporters can get to their polls. Also, one of their main goals is to push early voting so we can lock in an Obama victory in NM - before November 4th (just in case something goes wrong at the polls on November 4th).

I feel pretty yucky asking people for money. It's something I hate to do. However, in order to go to New Mexico, I'm going to have to take 3 weeks of unpaid leave from my job (we get only 2 weeks per year, and I don't have much vacation time saved up). I'm also going to keep paying all my bills at home while spending some money to get to and from NM. The Obama campaign is providing housing (at the home of a campaign volunteer in NM); I'm responsible for all other expenses.

My fundraising goal is $750. I estimate that this will cover most of my major expenses while traveling to and from NM (I'll be driving there), and while I'm working there for 3 weeks. If my expenses end up being less than $750, I will donate the extra money to the Obama campaign. I also plan to keep a blog and will keep and eventually post all my receipts, for the sake of transparency.

Thanks for your support, and let's get Barack Obama where he belongs - in the White House!!