Carson City Democrats

A Richardson Campaign memo notes the great number of undecideds breaking for Richardson in Iowa, helping to prepare Iowa for a caucus night surprise. Add those undecideds with Biden and Dodd supporters who will have to realign and Richardson is poised to exceed expectations and carry new momentum into New Hampshire and then to here in Nevada.

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From: Dave Contarino
To: Richardson Campaign Senior Staff
Subject: Iowa Momentum

As you know, we are well positioned for a big upset on caucus night. The biggest hurdle we will face in bringing our supporters home will be questions about viability on the ground. Here are the numbers we have confirmed to address this directly:

Richardson Mourns Bhutto, Calls for Musharraf to Step Down

DENISON, IA -- New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson issued the following statement this morning after the assassination of Pakistani opposition leader and former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.

"Benazir Bhutto was a courageous woman. Her death, and the deaths of so many of her supporters, is more than just a tragedy. It is a testament to the will of the Pakistani people to see democracy restored. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who died today.

"Ms. Bhutto knew the dangers to her safety. But she would not be intimidated. We also must not be intimidated.

A leader has died, but democracy must live. The United States government cannot stand by and allow Pakistan's return to democracy to be derailed or delayed by violence.

Dear Carson City Democrats,

It's so good to be home for the holidays.

I'm really grateful to spend two days at home in Santa Fe before Barbara and I head back out to Iowa. We flew in late last night, and then got up early this morning to have breakfast together at home.

Now we're enjoying a quiet, reflective day together before folks start coming over tonight. Christmas at our place means family, friends, food and laughter. And don't tell Barbara, but I'm hoping I can convince her to go for a horse back ride in the snow later on ... just call me old-fashioned.

It means so much to us both that I'm able to take this break. We've been through a lot this year -- and this campaign has meant a lot of time apart.

But Barbara and I agree it's worth it. And the one thing that keeps us both going is the unwavering support of people like you.

So thank you for the gift of your faith in me. Merry Christmas from Barbara and me -- and here's wishing you and yours the very best this holiday season.

Have a terrific holiday!

Bill