I’ve heard some arguments that the “universal” stage is a stepping stone to single-payer since it helps get the public used to the idea. There’s some evidence from voting last Tues in MA and WI (maybe others?) that shows this might be happening. Still pretty skeptical myself, but it won’t hurt either way for us to rise up in support of single-payer across the country.

Howie, you have my unbounded appreciation for your heroic efforts to better (almost beyond measure) the ‘quality’ of those who would presume to ‘lead’, by encouraging those who are most-capable, most able, most thoughtful, and, hopefully, most un-corruptible.

Thank you, Howie!!!

As you move forward and work with others like Ron Wyden, Maria Cantwell, Russ Feingold, and Bernie Sanders toward a more progressive vision for America I sincerely hope that you make it a primacy among your tenure in the U.S. Senate to fight to restore the responsibilities, liabilities, and authorities back to the Senate and away from the Executive. To, in essence, restore our Republic in policy, protection, and procedure.

-sarahlane, netroots director for Merkley

Congrats and we’re all thrilled with your impressive campaign. It was nice to see you win in spite of employing Matt Canter.
(kidding…I’ve worked him in the past…great guy).

Many Liberals get a little anxious and frustrated when we see candidates we campaigned hard for vote for some truly horrendous legislation. Donna Edwards and the FISA vote as just one example, or some of Obama’s votes as other examples. I assume this’ll will happen with you at some point. Personally, I understand why this happens from time to time, but what can you say to those who aren’t so forgiving or patient? How do you pick which battles to fight, and when to simply “go along to get along?”