Paul Hackett (D) is running for congress against Jean Schmidt (R) and the election is a week from today (it is on 2 August 2005). I'm fom this area, and let me tell ya, It is full of wingnuts and the usual Repub 'don't tax ME' greediness. People there put money before country and similarly party before country. That said, the very conservative local paper (The Cincy post not the Cincinnati Enquirer) has endorsed Hackett. This is unusual, they supported Bush in '00 and '04 but stated Hackett "is a gust of fresh air".

The grass roots effort has been huge, with large amounts of money coming in from across the country (from here, if you care to donate). It has been covered by Mr. Tagaris of Swing State Project here, here, and here.

This grassroots income may mean it all in this race (as it should be) as Schmidt is on fumes while Hackett is well funded for the last week; the most important week. This coupled with the endorsement by Cincy Post may develope into a pick up for the Dems in a very red part of the state. Don't hold your breath, but don't rule it out!

Hackett is a great man, served his country (Marines) then reenlisted to serve again in Iraq, he was in Fallujah. America needs a voice like his in Congress, and he has my support. Good luck Paul!

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