I hadn’t written about State Sen. Kirk Watson’s Monopoly Busters drive before now – see here for his announcement of it last week. The primary goal is to decide which House incumbents will receive campaign contributions from Sen. Watson, but the secondary goal, which really may be the most important one, was getting more Texas Democrats – officeholders as well as the grassroots – involved in social media and online outreach. Turns out that’s been a big success.
Yesterday, we exceeded the 10,000-vote threshold – as well as all expectations for the success of this effort. The organization and energy that have gone into the last 10 days have been inspiring.
The question now is how to keep that energy flowing. As I’ve said before, while the $10,000 contribution that just one legislator will receive provides an excellent catalyst, it isn’t the biggest benefit of the Ballot. Instead, the biggest benefit will be the social media networks and email contacts that every representative will reap from participating. Clearly, this is a rare opportunity to get and keep Democrats engaged in your campaigns, and I want to do all I can to maximize it.
Yesterday, I received a letter from our State Party Chairman, Boyd Richie, which is attached. Noting the positive effect that the Ballot has had in these legislative races, Chairman Richie proposed extending its benefits by doubling the number of candidates who move on to Round 2. I think it’s a great suggestion – one that dovetails with some things I’ve heard and thoughts I’ve had about this effort and where we should go from here. And I’m writing to let you know that I’m taking his advice.
After Round 1 ends at 5 p.m. today, I will announce the ten candidates who will move on to Round 2. I believe that increasing participation and making the Ballot more open will cause the benefits to multiply, as well.
You can go here to cast your vote. I cast mine for Rep. Kristi Thibaut, who is running second right now. Round One ends today at 5, and Round Two will follow shortly. Thanks to Sen. Watson, whose example I hope will inspire some copycats, for doing this.