To NACo Members:

The holidays are quickly approaching and with that come the first series of primaries and caucuses. To ensure that county issues are part of the debate, NACo has launched the 2008 Presidential Election Project. So far, the Project has been a huge success – NACo has met with policy directors from all the major campaigns, had several candidates speak at NACo and state association events, and have had county officials from all over the country attend events and speak to candidates.

But it’s far from over. NACo needs your help to continue the project and get county issues to the forefront of the campaign. We want to keep doing what we’ve done – attending campaign events, talking to the campaigns and endorsing candidates. To find out where the candidates are, log on to www.nacoblog.blogspot.com. Bookmark it and check back daily for the latest candidate schedules.

While you’re online, don’t forget to let NACo know who you’re supporting in the race. Log on to www.naco.org/presidential to let us know. The more endorsements we collect prior to the primaries, the more politically relevant we become as an organization and the more attention we garner from media and the campaigns.

To help educate the candidates on NACo’s issues, NACo recently published a new brochure highlighting the Restore the Partnership campaign and lists questions the candidates should answer regarding county issues. Please email Kim Rogers at krogers@naco.org if you would like copies of the brochure to distribute to candidates that visit your state.

As we continue to move forward in the campaign season, NACo is looking for county officials to take an active role in the Election Project. We’re looking for people to serve as local experts on a myriad of issues. If you are active with your state party be sure to let us know. This is a great way to participate in the race as we move into the general election. And of course, NACo welcomes your feedback and ideas. Please contact Kim Rogers at (202) 942-4237 or krogers@naco.org with questions, suggestions or just to let us know you’re eager to be involved.

Happy holidays!

Larry Naake

NACo Executive Director