“Tom Vilsack is an excellent choice for the next Secretary of Agriculture,” Gov. Schweitzer said. “He was an outstanding Governor dedicated to improving the quality of life for Iowans. Governor Vilsack worked to strengthen Iowa’s economy and create high-paying jobs, expertise that will serve the next administration well during these difficult economic times. He is a champion for America’s farmers, an authority on natural resources, and thoroughly experienced in agricultural issues. We are extremely pleased that Governor Vilsack is embarking upon his next chapter of service to the American people.”

Gov. Vilsack served as Iowa’s Governor from 1999 to 2007 and as DGA Chair in 2004.

“Janet Napolitano has been a proven national leader on many policy issues, especially border security and public safety issues,” Gov. Manchin said. “She will bring to the Department of Homeland Security first-hand knowledge and expertise to help keep our nation safe and to tackle the serious challenges of a post-9/11 world.”

Daschle said, “For years, Governor Napolitano has been a powerful force of positive change in Arizona and at the national level. She will strengthen the President-elect’s national security team and help to rebuild the broken state-federal partnership on homeland security and other issues facing our country.”

Following Gov. Napolitano’s resignation as Governor, she will be succeeded by Arizona’s Republican Secretary of State.

“Governor Napolitano’s service to the nation far outweighs the political reality of her appointment,” Daschle said. “Rest assured that Democrats will have a strong candidate for Arizona’s governorship in 2010, but now is the time to celebrate the kind of leadership Governor Napolitano will bring to the Department.”

Manchin concluded, “Janet Napolitano has earned the respect and admiration of Democratic and Republican Governors alike. It has been a pleasure to work with her as Governor, and it will be a pleasure to work with her as the next Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.”

Gov. Napolitano serves on the DGA’s Executive Committee.

Fox News contributor Newt Gingrich made the false claim on CBS’ Face the Nation. Read more here.

A former school teacher, Gov.-elect Perdue discussed her vision for education. She also talk about creating jobs in these challenging economic times. Watch the interview here.

Delaware online reports that Jack Markell is putting his transition team together. He named the leaders of his transition team and his Cabinet-secretary selection committee, team members he said will be responsible for advising him on policy issues and preparing him to “hit the ground running” on Jan. 20.

Click here to download the roundup of victory news this week.

Washington, D.C. – After last night’s resounding victories have brought the number of Democratic Governors to the highest level since 1994, the Democratic Governors Association (DGA) stands ready to work with President-elect Barack Obama. DGA Chair Gov. Joe Manchin said that Election Day capped off a tremendously successful year for the DGA.

“The DGA’s victories last night bring our majority of Democratic Governors to twenty-nine,” Gov. Manchin said. “With our new, greater majority, we will work with President-elect Obama to restore the broken state-federal partnership and deliver the change Americans are yearning for. Now is the time for us – Democrats and Republicans – to roll up our sleeves and get to work for the American people.”

The DGA set out to accomplish three goals this year: 1) win the three targeted, competitive races in Washington, North Carolina, and Missouri; 2) raise at least $20 million and bank at least $9 million; and 3) expand Democratic governorships by one. DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle said in reference to the goals, “Check, check, check.” Daschle went on to review the DGA’s successes. “We targeted three races, and we won them all. We raised a record-breaking $21 million and are on track to obliterate our all-time cash-on-hand record. On top of all that, we grew our ranks to the greatest number since 1994 when most political observers expected a wash.”

Daschle summed it up by saying, “We are not only pleased with our success as an organization, but we are also excited about what this says about our country. More Americans are choosing Democratic leadership at the state level than any time in the last 14 years, and Democratic Governors are poised to play a key role in the Obama Administration.”

The DGA helped to re-elect each of the four Democrats seeking re-election in Washington, West Virginia, Montana, and New Hampshire. Democrats retained their two open governorships in North Carolina and Delaware. They also continued the trend of winning GOP seats by helping to elect Jay Nixon in Missouri.

Many ballots are still being counted in Washington, but the early numbers show that Gov. Chris Gregoire has won the race by a far greater margin than four years ago. North Carolina was a hard-fought race, but in the end, Gov.-elect Bev Perdue’s ideas and vision resonated with voters, and she will become the state’s first female Governor. Rounding the number of new Democratic Governors to three is Jack Markell in Delaware, who won his race by three dozen points.

Because of the DGA’s record fundraising, the organization was able to invest more into the most competitive states – in Washington and North Carolina individually – than any other races in history.

Gov. Manchin concluded, “Last night proves that Americans know that Democrats are effective leaders who get results. With President-elect Obama taking office in January, we will work through these tough economic times and make our states and our nation stronger and stronger.”

“Chris Gregoire has won this race and we have increased our majority tonight to twenty-nine Democratic Governors, the greatest number since 1994,” Gov. Manchin said. “Chris has been an effective leader and put Washington on sound financial footing, even in these difficult economic times. Her forward-thinking vision and record of progress explain why she won this race.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle said, “We are elated that Governor Gregoire secured a second term and we have increased our majority of Democratic Governors. Helping to re-elect Governor Gregoire was the DGA’s number one priority this year, and her victory tops off what has been a tremendous night for Democrats.”

The Governor has inspired thousands of Washingtonians in a massive grassroots effort. In fact, more than 7,000 volunteers made more than 2 million phone calls and knocked on nearly one million doors. In the final few weeks alone, volunteers called more than 600,000 and knocked on 250,000 doors.

“The voters in Montana know strong leadership when they see it, and they’re clearly seeing it in Brian Schweitzer,” Gov. Manchin said. “With Brian Schweitzer as Governor, Montana has seen the creation of thousands of new jobs, the state is at the forefront of energy independence, unemployment is among the lowest in the country and wages are growing at among the fast rates in the nation.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle said, “The people of Montana have reaffirmed what Democratic Governors have been saying about Brian Schweitzer since he took office: his passion, energy, leadership and stewardship will continue moving Montana and the nation in the right direction. We look forward to continuing our work with Governor Schweitzer.”

In January, Gov. Schweitzer will begin his second four-year term.

Washington, D.C. – Gov.-elect Jay Nixon today surprised no one when he soundly defeated Republican Congressman Kenny Hulshof in Missouri’s gubernatorial race. Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Chair Gov. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) congratulated him on his impressive victory.

“Throughout his campaign, Jay Nixon connected with hard-working Missourians by offering a clear vision for the positive change they’re hungry for,” Gov. Manchin said. “Today Missouri took a giant step forward, and with Jay Nixon as Governor, Missouri will take many more steps forward in the years to come. We look forward to having Jay join the ranks of the Democratic Governors.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle said, “Jay Nixon’s campaign will be studied as a model for statewide elections in the years to come. Governor-elect Nixon ran a nearly flawless campaign and now stands with a commanding majority of Missourians as they begin their work to make government work. The days of incompetent, unethical leadership in the Governor’s office are over.”

Gov.-elect Nixon continues in the line of Democrats flipping governorships from red to blue for the third consecutive election. In 2006, Democrats flipped Colorado, Massachusetts, New York, Maryland, and Arkansas from Republican to Democratic. In 2007, Democrats defeated incumbent Republican Gov. Ernie Fletcher in Kentucky.

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Chair Gov. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) today congratulated Bev Perdue for being elected North Carolina’s 74th Governor. In this hotly contested race, Gov.-elect Perdue defeated Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory.

“Congratulations to Bev Perdue for her historic victory tonight,” Gov. Manchin said. “We couldn’t be happier to keep North Carolina in our column, and we cannot wait to welcome Bev into our ranks.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle discussed the role the DGA played in tonight’s victory. “North Carolina represented one of the most competitive races in the country, and the DGA is proud to have played a part in Governor-elect Perdue’s success,” Daschle said. “We invested more in this race than in any other in history, and we are so pleased with the outcome. Tonight’s result is a victory for all of North Carolina.”

The win in North Carolina means the only two Democratic open seats this year will stay in the Democratic column. (In addition to Perdue winning North Carolina, Gov.-elect Jack Markell handily defeated his Republican opponent in Delaware.)

Gov. Manchin thanked Gov. Mike Easley for his years of public service. “Governor Mike Easley has served as Governor with distinction for eight years and spent many years before that in service to his state,” Gov. Manchin said. “All of my colleagues join me in wishing him the best in the next chapter of his life.”

Tonight’s victory is historic. Bev Perdue is the first female to be elected Governor of North Carolina. “Bev fought hard for tonight’s win, and she’ll fight even harder for the people of North Carolina,” Manchin said.

CO – Ritter Kicks Off Small Business Forum. Doing business in this economy is no easy task, which is why Gov. Bill Ritter was in Pueblo. He kicked off a statewide small business forum that helps shopkeepers navigate through these tough times. “Over 50% of people in the state are employed by small businesses,” said Gov. Ritter. “We don’t want them to go out of business even though we though we know there’s still tough economic sledding ahead.” Read more

IA – Culver Announces Funds for Senior Center. A Cedar Rapids senior center is slated to get more than $1.1 million in federal and state funds to help with flood recovery efforts. The lawmakers say the Federal Emergency Management Agency will pay for 90 percent of the project which included removing water and initial emergency clean up. Gov. Culver says the senior center is an “outstanding resource” for seniors in the area. Read more

KS – Sebelius Promotes State’s Green Initiatives. Gov. Kathleen Sebelius told a gathering of more than 800 people that Kansas is the “Saudi Arabia of wind.” It was a reference to Kansas’s ranking as third in the United States for wind energy potential.. Sebelius announced that Kansas is moving forward to do its part. “It’s a new day in Kansas presenting new opportunities,” she said. “We have a rich heritage of being good stewards of the earth, and Kansans are very supportive. They understand that our prairie wind is an enormous asset as an energy source that is sustainable, renewable and clean, and that we need to harness it.” Read more

MD- O’Malley: Film Festivals to Boost Tourism. The governor’s office is offering $30,000 in state grants to individuals and organizations looking to stage film festivals in Maryland. “Interest in film festivals is a great way to boost tourism, as well as showcase Maryland’s very talented filmmakers,” Gov. Martin O’Malley said. “We hope that these funds will help leverage private sector support for the film industry, and encourage new festivals throughout the state.” Read more

MI – Granholm Aims to ‘Keep Michigan Working’ with New Action Teams. Gov. Jennifer Granholm unveiled a partnership with state, local and community officials to “Keep Michigan Working,” as workers and businesses grapple with the recent economic downturn. The new coalition of leaders are part of three action teams, including a talent action team, a business action team and a community action team, each charged with their own goal to transition displaced workers. An improved Michigan jobs Web site was also introduced as part of the initiative. “This is all about giving citizens who have lost a job or who may be facing a layoff the dignity and opportunity of a second chance,” Granholm said. Read more

TN- Bredesen Launches e-Prescribe Network. Gov. Phil Bredesen launched e-Prescribe Tennessee, a collaboration of health care leaders working to make electronic prescribing the primary prescription method in Tennessee. The program will work with health care providers and pharmacies to incorporate e-prescribing into their daily workflow. It will also establish e-prescribing requirement standards and best practices and remove barriers to e-prescription adoption. “As a collaborative of major health care stakeholders, e-Prescribe Tennessee is our way forward in using e-prescribing to improve health outcomes, reduce health care costs and enhance health care efficiency,” Bredesen said. Read more

VA- Kaine Announces Plans for Green Jobs. Gov. Tim Kaine announced a new plan in Richmond to help bring new jobs to the state, jobs focused on energy generation, conservation, research and development. They are the “green” jobs we’ve heard so much about. It is called the Renew Virginia Initiative, and will be one of the main things Kaine will stress in 2009. He’ll work with businesses in the field to bring new jobs and investments to the state. Kaine says the Commonwealth must be innovative, especially now in these times of economic anxiety. “I want to make the last year of my governor’s term a focus on energy and the environment,” said Kaine. Read more

CO- Ritter Offers Obama Economic Recovery Ideas. Gov. Bill Ritter said he’s submitted detailed ideas to President-elect Barack Obama about how best to create jobs in the short-term and make vital long-term economic investments through a transportation- and energy-infrastructure stimulus package. In a letter Ritter offered a list of ideas to Obama, Colorado’s congressional delegation and the congressional leadership, expanding on ideas he initially discussed last week. “The nation faces significant challenges on a number of fronts,” Ritter said in the letter. “However, these challenges create enormous opportunities. Through wise investments in infrastructure, we can hasten economic recovery and put the nation on a path for long-term vibrant growth.” Read more

IA- Culver Announces Expedited Flood Relief. Gov. Chet Culver announced that Iowa homeowners seeking flood relief will have a new option intended to provide assistance faster. The program, dubbed Jumpstart Express, lifts many of the federal requirements, tied to the original Jumpstart Iowa program. “I think this is going to help hundreds of families,” Culver said. “Jumpstart Express will allow affected Iowans who are eligible for our current Jumpstart Iowa housing funds to receive help paying for home repairs related to flood damage, but with fewer requirements.” Read more

KY- Beshear Encourages Kentuckians to Buy Local. With the holiday season quickly approaching and the commonwealth facing tough economic times, Gov. Steve Beshear is encouraging Kentuckians to help support local businesses and purchase products made in Kentucky for holiday gifts. He said you don’t need to look far for gift ideas because of a vast array of local businesses with Kentucky Proud products, including foods, crafts and gift cards. Read more

MD- O’Malley Promotes Efforts to Combat Drunk Driving. The pain of losing a loved one to drunken driving never fades, but the families and friends of these victims are not alone, said a survivor at the Fifth Annual Maryland Remembers Memorial. Maryland leaders are reaching out. Gov. Martin O’Malley, law enforcement officials and safety advocates joined family members and friends of victims of impaired-driving car crashes to promote efforts to combat drunken driving in the state. O’Malley asked Maryland residents to be responsible and not drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. He encouraged the use of Tipsy Taxi and SoberRide, two programs designed to provide safe, free transportation for people who do not have a designated driver. “If you choose to drink, don’t drive,” O’Malley said. “If others do, stop them.” Read more

MA- Patrick Makes Economic Pitch in D.C. Gov. Deval Patrick says there’s a growing consensus that an economic stimulus package should include money for a broad array of infrastructure projects, and not just road and bridge projects. Patrick met in Washington with President-elect Barack Obama’s chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, Obama’s economic transition team and House Appropriations Committee chairman David Obey, whose panel will play a key role crafting any stimulus package. Patrick said he’s hopeful the package Obama and Congress are working on will include money for transportation, education, energy efficiency measures for public buildings, broadband and electronic medical record projects that could boost Massachusetts. Read more

MI- Granholm Talks Energy with Obama Team. Gov. Jennifer Granholm talked about energy and economic stimulus issues with President-elect Barack Obama’s transition team. Granholm talked about a developing economic stimulus plan and how it relates to alternative and ‘green’ energy. Read more

NJ- Corzine Acts to Boost Economy. Gov. Jon Corzine has made good on his promise to invigorate New Jersey’s struggling economy. By signing the Invest NJ Program into law, Corzine declares that a check for $3,000 will be made out to New Jersey businesses for every new hire they make and keep for a year or longer. “We can either wait for the economic cycle to take its course, or we can act now,” Gov. Corzine said. Read more

VA- Kaine Gets a Look at Citizens’ Concerns. Gov. Timothy M. Kaine stopped by the Virginia Employment Commission Workforce One Stop Center in Hopewell. Kaine made the center the first stop of his Petersburg-area “Cabinet Community Day”—a quarterly field trip designed to educate the executive branch on different regions of the state and to offer residents public access to their government on the ground level. Read more

WI- Doyle Talks Stimulus Plan in D.C. The start of a commuter rail line between Madison and Milwaukee, a new UW-Madison medical research tower and expansion of Interstate 94 are among the local projects Gov. Jim Doyle says could be started within months if federal lawmakers pass a massive economic stimulus bill for states. Doyle met with members of President-elect Barack Obama’s economic team and incoming chief of staff Rahm Emanuel and presented them a list of those and other projects he says the state has ready to go, his office said. “These are things we could do immediately to have people work all across the state,” Doyle said. Read more

DE- Markell Hears Business Ideas. Gov-elect Jack Markell got an earful of ideas from Sussex County business leaders—complaints about byzantine government bureaucracy and concerns over state budget cuts, but sprinkled with enthusiasm for emerging industries, such as alternative energy. Markell spoke with a crowd of about 70 business owners and local government representatives, fielding questions and asking for ideas on ways state government can help business growth. Read more

ME- Baldacci Promotes Renewable Energy. Gov. John Baldacci says the plunge in oil prices must not lead Mainers to lose sight of the importance of achieving energy independence. Baldacci took part in a ribbon-cutting at Maine Energy Systems, a wood pellet facility that provides fuel and furnaces to heat homes and businesses. Read more

MA- Patrick Announces High Science Scores. Allowing youngsters to experiment in science classes has helped the state rocket ahead of the entire nation and even most countries in an international math and science exam. Gov. Deval Patrick announced the stunning report card. “This achievement is the result of the commitment to high standards of teachers and students in classrooms across the Commonwealth,” said Patrick. Read more

NJ- Corzine Signs Business Stimulus Bill. Gov. Jon S. Corzine made good on a pledge to spur the state’s economy, signing legislation that gives businesses a $3,000 grant for every new employee they hire and keep for a year or longer. The “Invest New Jersey” legislation also waives the state’s 7 percent sales tax for companies making capital investments of $5,000 or more over the next two years. Corzine signed the bill authorizing $120 million in business grants and tax credits during a daylong forum hosted by the New Jersey Business and Industry Association. “My most important focus is to do everything that we can to get through this very challenging dip in our macro-economic life as easily and without as much trouble as possible,” Corzine told 250 business leaders. Read more

OH- Strickland: Wind Business Growing. Making the parts for the machinery to tap wind for energy is emerging even as the state’s traditional steel and auto manufacturing base struggles, Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland said. He said there are signs that Ohio’s recently passed energy bill is creating a wind energy market, which is vital if the state is to attract wind turbine manufacturing. “I’m excited about continued interest, even in these difficult economic times, in pursuing Ohio as a potential place for component-parts manufacturing for wind power, energy jobs I believe will lead the way to reinvigorating Ohio’s and America’s economy,” Strickland said. Read more

PA- Rendell Pushes for Infrastructure Revitalization. Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell made the case for revitalizing the U.S. infrastructure, explaining that it will improve the country’s quality of life, public safety, and economic viability. Rendell stressed that the scale of the program would need to be significant in order to achieve the desired effects as a vehicle for economic recovery. “Scale is important in this program. It cannot be 25 billion or 50 billion…our infrastructure is collapsing, it’s a danger to public safety, it’s killing our quality of life when people need to sit in traffic jams an hour and a half a day, and it is certainly producing an uncompetitive American economy,” said Rendell during a summit at the US Chamber of Commerce. Read more

WV- Manchin Announces Plan for Coal-to-Gas Liquids Plant. Gov. Joe Manchin and Adam Victor, president of TransGas Development Systems of New York City announced the company’s plan to build a $3 billion coal-to-gas liquids plant in Mingo County. Victor said the plant would consume 8,500 tons of coal a day to produce 18,000 barrels of gasoline. He said it would create 3,000 construction jobs and 200 permanent jobs. He said his company chose West Virginia for the project because the state’s leaders are open to it. Read more

GENERAL NEWS

CO- Ritter Vows to Help Those With Brain Injuries. It’s been called an invisible disability and Gov. Bill Ritter vowed to help people with traumatic brain injuries. Ritter signed an executive order ensuring that a variety of state agencies work together to treat TBI cases. The governor says each year 5,000 Coloradans are diagnosed with significant brain injuries, many of which are our soldiers coming back from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Read more

DE- Markell Holds Town Hall Meetings. Gov.-elect Jack Markell wants to hear your thoughts on how to make state government more efficient and effective. Markell calls getting the state’s fiscal house in order his top priority, and believes he has to speak to the people on the front lines to find out how things really work. Markell will holds two town hall meetings, during which he wants to hear from people in the public and private sector. Read more

KS- Editorial: Kansas Needs Sebelius. Theories abound about why Gov. Kathleen Sebelius removed her name from consideration for a post in the Obama Cabinet. But her stated reasons should be good enough for Kansas, which will need strong, practiced leadership if it’s going to beat the fiscal crisis. In a three-sentence statement, Sebelius said in part: “Given the extraordinary budget challenges facing our state, and my commitment to continuing the progress we’ve made in Kansas, I believe it is important to continue my service as governor of the great state of Kansas; a job that I love and have been honored to hold. The possibility of joining President-elect Obama’s team is exciting and compelling, but my service to the citizens who elected me is my top priority in these difficult times.” Read more

MD- O’Malley: State Ready for Obama’s Plan. Gov. Martin O’Malley said there are dozens of projects that are ready to go under President-elect Barack Obama’s plan, including school construction and transportation improvements. The governor said Obama’s plan can translate to real jobs and real improvements around Maryland without being loaded with pork. “All of us are proud of the strides we made on the environment, the Bay Trust Fund, extending health care benefits, holding college tuition increases to zero percent three years in a row—not another state’s done that. So, these are all the debates we’re going to have as we come back into session, and a big part of the variable in that debate and in that math is how boldly and decisively our new president-elect can act, and the degree to which the new Congress will support him in making these investments now,” O’Malley said. Read more

NJ- Corzine: Put Workers First. Speaking at an event focused on worker’s rights and the Obama administration, Gov. Jon Corzine called on the federal government to pay more attention to labor issues than the Bush administration. His list of issues requiring federal attention included enforcement of minimum wage laws and workplace safety. Corzine said he wants to make sure workers get their share of the economic pie and are properly trained and paid, adding that it’s “aggravating” to hear critics say New Jersey is unfriendly to businesses because the state is labor friendly. Read more

NY- Paterson Makes Splash at Gridiron Dinner. Gov. David Paterson’s trademark humor was on full display at the Gridiron Club dinner in Washington, D.C., where his speech there was peppered with pop culture and political references. The annual press association dinner is known for its satirical skits in which politicians try to ham it up—but Gov. Paterson may have walked in with higher-than-average expectations, given his penchant for cracking jokes and reputation for actually being, well, funny. And by the sound of it, he didn’t disappoint, eliciting hearty laughs from the audience, comprised of members of the ultra-exclusive press association. Read more

WA- Gregoire Hears Economic Recovery Ideas. Gov. Chris Gregoire emerged from a closed-door brainstorming session with some of the area’s top business, labor and higher-education leaders to deliver a rapid-fire report on ways to help the state’s economy. She didn’t divulge details of what the group discussed, but said the first step is to create a state stimulus package and expedite transportation construction projects to get people working. Read more

WV- Manchin Announces More Home Heating Aid. West Virginians who get state assistance to keep their homes warm will get a little boost when they need it most. Gov. Joe Manchin said he has approved an additional $200 payment to elderly, disabled and low-income residents for this winter. The payment through the Low Income Energy Assistance Program will be made automatically. Manchin says the state is fortunate to be able to fund the program, which is critical to many people. Read more

WI- Doyle: Obama plan will help Midwest. Gov. Jim Doyle is banking that President-Elect Barack Obama’s proposed economic stimulus plan will be the first step of many to revive the nation’s economy. “We will see a major stimulus package focused on infrastructure and I believe since infrastructure is broadly defined right now that the New North is effectively positioned to benefit,” Doyle said. “What he’s said publically and privately to every governor is that a majority of his plan will focus on public works projects,” Doyle said. Read more

Schweitzer to Lead Governors’ Group. Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Wednesday he will be the next chairman of the Democratic Governor’s Association. Schweitzer, previously the group’s vice chairman, will lead the DGA as it enjoys big electoral wins. The Montana governor said he hopes to use the upcoming year to advance policy issues. The DGA boasts 29 Democratic governors around the country, which it says is the most since 1994. The political group helps elect Democratic governors, advance their ideals and raises money to do so. Read more

GENERAL NEWS

CO- Ritter Finds Ways to Help Small Business. Small businesses in Colorado will get some advice on enduring a downturn this winter. Gov. Bill Ritter’s office said that his administration will organize a series of six “small-business finance forums” across the state. Called “Surviving Tough Times: Counseling, Tools and Resources for Small Businesses,” the forums will be like open houses for businesses, officials said, offering experts and other informational resources on how to weather the financial crisis and access government programs. “Small businesses are the backbone of Colorado’s economy,” Ritter said. “Colorado has a much higher concentration of small businesses than other states, and it’s vital we do all we can to help them survive this national financial crisis. These forums will bring together a wide range of experts, services, information and other resources, all geared toward small-business assistance.” Read more

DE- Editorial: Markell’s Moving in Right Direction with Cabinet Choices. Delawareans have watched political history unfold these past few days as Democratic Gov-elect Jack Markell continued to reel off surprising names of his top advisers and Cabinet secretaries that will help shape his administration beginning next month. For those inoculated to the so-called “Delaware Way” of politics – which is not always a good thing – the Markell choices are remarkably refreshing. Read more

IA- Culver Pushes for Federal Action on Green Energy. Gov. Chet Culver wants the new Congress and administration to clear the way for the new transmission lines needed to carry wind-generated power. “We can’t afford any more delays,” Culver said in a speech to a renewable energy conference on Capitol Hill. “It’s been done before with our highway system. We can do it again with a national grid plan.” Culver said in an interview that he made his case personally to President-elect Barack Obama at a governors’ meeting in Philadelphia earlier in the week. “He could not have been more receptive,” Culver said. Read more

MD- O’Malley Announces Stem Cell Conference. In an effort to thrust Maryland to the forefront of the global bioscience industry, Baltimore will host next year’s World Stem Cell Summit, Gov. Martin O’Malley announced at the state’s first Stem Cell Research Symposium. “Maryland is a state that’s moving forward,” O’Malley said, referring to how the Milken Institute recently ranked Maryland second in the U.S. in technology concentration and dynamism and first in investment in its workforce. “We’re in the best position to leverage our assets for economic growth.” Read more

NJ- Corzine Calls for Foreclosure Action. Gov. Jon Corzine said that preventing the foreclosure of home mortgages should have been a major focus of the federal government’s bailout package and must be a major priority going forward. Foreclosure prevention “should have been the focus of the bailout,” Corzine said in an interview with Reuters. “A large part of our efforts should be focused on that,” he said. Read more

NC- Perdue Talks Economy in the Triad. Gov.-elect Bev Perdue is on the road again, talking to business leaders about the state’s economy in the weeks before she takes office. Perdue scheduled a public round-table discussion with the Triad-area business community at Guilford Technical Community College in Jamestown. Perdue held two such meetings last week in Research Triangle Park and Charlotte. It’s part of her listening tour in which she’s taking input from citizens before getting sworn in. Read more

OR- Kulongoski Opens Another State Park. Crissey Field has become the fifth state park to open since Gov. Ted Kulongoski embarked on his park-a-year initiative in 2004. In a release announcing the opening, the governor’s office noted that the park has a welcome center that includes environmentally friendly features, such as solar-powered electricity and water heating, and geothermal heating and cooling of the building’s interior. Read more

VA- Kaine Favors Stronger Efforts to Address Climate Change. Gov. Timothy M. Kaine told his Commission on Climate Change that he welcomes its recommendation for cuts in greenhouse gas emissions that are deeper than what he originally proposed as part of Virginia’s plans to combat global warming. Speaking to the 30-member commission as it debated the details of its final report, due next week, Kaine said he intends to carry out as many of the panel’s recommendations “as we reasonably can.” Read more

WI- Doyle Announces Record-Breaking Agricultural Exports. Gov. Jim Doyle announced that Wisconsin’s agricultural exports increased by 7 percent to a record $1.5 billion during the first nine months of 2008. “I’m really pleased that people around the world are learning the best food and livestock are produced here in Wisconsin,” Gov. Doyle said. “Agriculture is one of the cornerstones of our economy and Wisconsin is aggressively positioning ourselves to take advantage of this growing demand through technological upgrades and new products.” Read more

CNN: Democratic Governors Elect Schweitzer O’Malley. The Democratic Governors Association announced Wednesday that Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer will take over as the group’s chairman, replacing West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin. Schweitzer, a bolo tie-wearing moderate who handily won a second term as governor in November, was elected at the DGA’s annual winter meeting, with Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley winning the post of vice-chair. Both men have taken active roles in the DGA, and each said they look forward to working with President-elect Obama as a partner. Read more

CO – Ritter: Trip to Asia Creates Business Foundation. Those returning from a 10-day economic trade mission to Asia with Gov. Bill Ritter came home with big ideas and optimism for the future, despite the state of the global economy. Japan, one stop on the trip, is important to Colorado as it is the state’s fourth-largest export market. A key focus of the trip was highlighting Colorado’s bioscience and clean energy advancements. “While the U.S. economy continues to struggle, it is more important than ever for Colorado to be aggressive when it comes to marketing, promoting and developing our economy,” Gov. Ritter said. “We must keep looking for ways to create new jobs, new investments and new opportunities. That’s what this mission was about.” Read more

DE – Markell Begins to Fill Cabinet. Gov.-elect Jack Markell begins his cabinet appointments by naming two people to help tackle the state’s budget shortfall. Markell nominated former DuPont CFO Gary Pfeiffer as Secretary of Finance, and Deputy State Treasurer Ann Visalli as Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Markell says both nominees bring decades of experience to the table, and will help him get the state’s economy moving in a new direction. Read more

WV – Editorial: Manchin is Correct to Focus on Courts. Gov. Joe Manchin is seeking legislative support to change the way West Virginia selects judges. He appears to be building a case for shifting away from the partisan election of judges to nonpartisan elections. It’s a step in the right direction. Many West Virginians recognize that our state’s judiciary appears to be out of sync with courts in other states, most of which employ other means of judicial selection. Such a reputation hurts West Virginians who long for economic growth that can sustain families and strengthen communities. Manchin is taking a practical approach to address a longstanding problem. Read more

WI – Doyle Welcomes Google to Madison. Internet giant Google has opened an office in Madison. Gov. Jim Doyle attended the company’s open house and welcomed it to Wisconsin. Doyle says the state must continue to attract companies like Google to provide good jobs for its educated work force—particularly in tough economic times. Read more

Schweitzer, Daschle Congratulate Richardson on Cabinet Designation, Welcome Denish to DGA. DGA Chair Gov. Brian Schweitzer and Executive Director Nathan Daschle today congratulated former DGA Chair Gov. Bill Richardson (N.M.) on being designated the next United States Secretary of Commerce. They also welcomed Lt. Gov. Diane Denish (N.M.) to the DGA. Read more

Politico: Gov. at First Sight. No one could remember a meeting quite like this. President-elect Barack Obama met with the nation’s governors to hear their tales of economic pain – and won some points by telling Republicans in the room that he welcomed disagreements, “so feel free,” one participant recalled. “He said, ‘I’m a good listener, and I’m a better listener when people disagree with me,’” added West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin, the outgoing head of the Democratic Governor’s Association. For Democratic governors, it was a welcome relief after years of meeting with a Republican president they found to be unfamiliar with details. “The contrast with our meeting with the sitting president was fairly stark,” said Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen, recalling a “much more controlled” environment with President George W. Bush. Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer, the incoming head of the DGA, was more blunt: “Just to have an administration, a president, a vice president, who listened, engaged, and came to meeting prepared – it’s a brand-new idea.” Read more

Washington Post: Haste Could Make Waste on Stimulus, States Say. In a private meeting in Philadelphia with 48 of the nation’s governors, Pres.-elect Obama stressed the importance of identifying projects that could put people to work quickly, participants said. Several governors were quite specific about their needs yesterday. Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer, the incoming chairman of the Democratic Governors Association, said his state had $200 million in projects ready to go, including some to retrofit several state-owned buildings to make them more energy efficient. West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin III said he hoped to secure $600 million for road and bridge repairs “that could start tomorrow.” Read more

New York Times: Federal Help is on the Way. With the economic crisis tearing holes in most state budgets, President-elect Barack Obama promised the nation’s governors on Tuesday that he would come to their aid with an ambitious program to build or repair roads, bridges, schools and other public projects. Several governors said they were heartened by Mr. Obama’s interest in meeting with them so early. “He’s not going to let us hang in the wind,” Gov. Brian Schweitzer of Montana, incoming chairman of the Democratic Governors Association, said in an interview afterward. “And he said, ‘This is an introduction, not an ending meeting.’” Read more

NPR: Obama Promises Governors Swift Action on Economic Plan. NPR’s Morning Edition covered yesterday’s meeting with Pres.-elect Obama and the nation’s Governors. Click here to listen

“The DGA has never been in a stronger position, and Brian Schweitzer is a dynamic leader who will take the organization to the next level,” Gov. Manchin said. “Brian has made in-roads in traditionally conservative-leaning areas because he’s honest, practical, and knows how to get results.”

In the meeting with President-elect Obama, the Governors pledged to work with the Administration to strengthen our economy and create new jobs. Gov. Schweitzer announced that his top policy goals as DGA Chair are to offer the federal government economic solutions that have been successful at the state level and to help restore the state-federal partnership.

“To get the economy moving in the right direction, the states and the federal government must have a better relationship than we had under the Bush Administration,” Gov. Schweitzer said. “President-elect Obama and the Governors are ready to work together in order to deliver the change Americans are so clearly demanding.”

Gov. O’Malley said, “I’m honored to have been elected the DGA’s Vice Chair especially during this time of unprecedented challenge and opportunity for our nation and our states. I look forward to standing with my fellow Governors as we work closely with our federal partners to get our economy moving again for America’s families.”

“Joe Manchin has taken the DGA to historic heights, and Martin O’Malley and I have the sturdiest of foundations to build upon,” Gov. Schweitzer said. “The DGA has the greatest number of Democratic Governors since 1994, and we have an incoming President who looks at us as partners rather than adversaries. I cannot think of a more exciting time to be leading the DGA.”

DE- Business Leaders Confident in Markell. When Delaware Gov.-elect Jack Markell takes office, he’ll have to shepherd a battered state economy and contend with a potential $500 million budget shortfall in 2010. But Markell who campaigned as the “small-business governor,” will come in with a vote of confidence from much of the private sector. “The governor-elect has been the treasurer for many years, and many bankers are familiar with Jack,” said David Bakerian, president of the Delaware Bankers Association. “We think he knows the business world as well as anyone and will be good to work with.” Read more

KY- Editorial: Beshear Offers Responsible Approach for Coal. Kentucky politicians always insist coal can be mined and burned in an environmentally responsible way. Gov. Steve Beshear is out to prove it. Beshear publicly opposed a Bush administration proposal that would shatter already weak protections for streams affected by mountaintop removal mining. In another development, Beshear’s administration is initiating new rules to reduce the amount of mercury released into the environment by coal-fired power plants. It’s encouraging to see Kentucky take the lead. Read more

MA- Patrick Challenges Businesses to Reduce Emissions. Gov. Deval Patrick has issued a challenge to businesses: reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 10 percent over the next three years. And a prominent group of Massachusetts businesses said they will accept his challenge. The Governor’s Clean Energy Challenge will offer recognition to participants who meet or exceed the 10 percent target. “I offer the Challenge to everyone to do their part to dramatically reduce their own greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency measures, innovative energy technology products, and the use of renewable sources,” said Gov. Patrick. “As in any competition, there will be recognition for extraordinary accomplishment and leadership. But this is a contest in which everyone who participates will be a winner.” Read more

NC- Perdue Talking Issues on the Road. Gov.-elect Beverly Perdue wants to talk publicly about biotechnology, the economy and other issues before taking office. The outgoing lieutenant governor is holding the first of several round-table meetings with leaders in a range of fields starting in Research Triangle Park. There, she’ll meet with business and education experts in the state’s growing biotech industry. Next, Perdue will be in Charlotte for a meeting on the economy with Duke Energy chief executive Jim Rogers, Charlotte Bobcats owner Bob Johnson and university chancellor Phil Dubois. Read more

VA- Kaine Encourages Mental Health Treatment. Gov. Tim Kaine joined dozens of Virginia colleges and universities for a workshop on “at-risk” students in Wintergreen.
The all-day session was part of this year’s Virginia Student Services Conference. According to Kaine, the 2007 Virginia Tech tragedy is still revealing new lessons.
“Of all the things that have happened during the time I’ve been governor—and I’m sure this will be the case 20 years after I’m governor—the thing I’ll remember most is the horrible tragedy at Virginia Tech,” Kaine said. Read more

WI- Doyle Expedites Unemployment Extension. Gov. Jim Doyle announced additional extended unemployment benefits for Wisconsin workers who have exhausted their benefits, both their regular Wisconsin benefits and the federal extended benefits approved last summer. “With our nation in an economic crisis, Washington has approved additional unemployment benefits, and I am moving swiftly to see that Wisconsin workers who are eligible for additional assistance receive these benefits without delay,” Doyle said. Read more

“I congratulate Governor Gregoire on her impressive victory,” Gov. Manchin said. “Voters enthusiastically support Chris Gregoire’s common-sense, effective leadership and are eager for her to serve another term. Even after a well-organized, heavily-funded attack effort against her, Governor Gregoire triumphed in Washington’s primary because she knows how to get results.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle added, “The primary results confirm that voters understand full well the difference between Governor Gregoire and her Republican opponent. Republican Dino Rossi cut health care for kids, slashed education funding, and voted against vital transportation funding for transit, bridges and ferries. The choice in November is clear: an accomplished leader who delivers results for all of Washington or a George Bush Republican who sides with special interests over everyday citizens.”

The primary also shows that third parties cancelled each other out, spelling trouble for the Rossi campaign. Rossi realizes the painful reality that he has no where to go to get the votes he needs to win, especially with Democrats expected to turn out in record numbers this fall.

Building on the growing momentum in the final months of the campaign, Gov. Gregoire will continue to talk to voters about her record and bold vision for the future. Gov. Manchin said, “Governor Gregoire is working hard for working families, and they will turn out for her in November in even greater numbers.”

Washington, D.C. – After months of mud-slinging and ruthless attacks, Republican Congressman Kenny Hulshof last night emerged as the GOP nominee for Governor, ready to continue the same failed policies of the rejected Blunt Administration. Though Hulshof admits to not having a health care plan of his own, he consistently defends and embraces Matt Blunt’s policy to slash coverage for hundreds of thousands of Missourians.

In stark contrast to his opponent, Attorney General and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jay Nixon recently unveiled an innovative plan to restore Blunt’s health care cuts, expand access to children, and make health insurance more affordable for Missouri families.

“The choice between Jay Nixon and Kenny Hulshof could not be any clearer,” DGA Chair Gov. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) said. “Jay is the only candidate who has the know-how and vision to affect positive change rather than offering more of the same. The enthusiasm for Jay Nixon is growing, and Missourians are ready to vote him in to our ranks in November.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle added, “Kenny Hulshof embodies the entrenched Republican establishment that is failing citizens from Missouri to Washington, D.C. Voters are rejecting the George W. Bush, Matt Blunt brand of leadership that’s grounded in incompetence and irresponsibility.”

As Jay Nixon’s positive vision and long record of accomplishments are resonating with Missourians, Hulshof is inheriting a Republican Party deeply divided and reeling from one of the most negative, drawn-out primary battles of the season.

“Democrats long ago began to rally around Jay Nixon because Missourians are hungry for the promising change only he can deliver,” Gov. Manchin said.

Daschle concluded, “After months of in-fighting, the GOP is in an unenviable position. They bear the burden of an unpopular Governor, have a platform that is out of touch with mainstream Missouri, and struggle with massive internal divisions. Missouri wants change, and Jay has the vision, experience, and leadership to turn the state around.”

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Chair Gov. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) today announced that the DGA has smashed its all-time mid-year fundraising record. For the second quarter in a row, the DGA will report having raised more than $5 million. The DGA ends the second quarter with $11.2 million raised so far for the year, more than double the $5.2 million it raised at this time last year and all-time record for the organization. Last year, the DGA raised $12.7 million for the entire 12-month period.

Further, the DGA exponentially outpaces its cash-on-hand record with $13.1 million – more than four times the organization’s average mid-year cash on hand.

“The enthusiasm for Democratic leadership across the country is truly amazing. We are seeing it in our record-breaking fundraising, and we are seeing it in the polls,” Gov. Manchin said. “In every corner of this great nation, voters are clamoring for Democratic leadership, and our fundraising performance is going to give us the resources to deliver in November.”

“Not only has the DGA raised more than twice the amount raised by mid-year in 2007, but it is also on track to shatter its fundraising record for the year,” Gov. Manchin continued. Today, the DGA is on target to crush its previous record of $18 million set in 2006 when there were 36 races for Governor.

The DGA’s historic fundraising success will go toward completing its first-ever four-year strategy, called Project 2010. The program will enable the organization to maintain a Democratic majority in 2009 and 2010 when there are 38 gubernatorial races.

Following 2010, the election and re-election of Democratic Governors will be particularly important in advance of redistricting and reapportionment, in which Governors play a vital role.

“Our unprecedented success not only positions us for more victories in November but also through 2009 and 2010, when the stakes are sky-high,” DGA Finance Chair Martin O’Malley (Md.) added. “By maintaining a majority of governorships, Democrats will be in a strong position against Republicans seeking their way into congressional power.”

Gov. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) today congratulated the winners of the gubernatorial primaries, who are the first female candidates for Governor in each state’s history. He assured North Carolina Lt. Gov. Bev Perdue and Indiana’s Jill Long Thompson that the DGA stands firmly behind them as they begin their paths to victory in November.

“Bev Perdue and Jill Long Thompson are outstanding candidates who have what it takes to win in November,” Gov. Manchin said. “After these hotly-contested primaries, Bev and Jill are stronger, and Democrats are coming together to offer them steadfast, enthusiastic support.”

Perdue is positioned to continue North Carolina’s long history of Democratic Governors. The state has elected only two Republican Governors in the past 100 years.

“Bev Perdue has the know-how and the vision to take North Carolina to the next level,” Gov. Manchin said. “North Carolinians are well-accustomed to innovative, results-oriented Democratic Governors, and Bev is on track to be their next one.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle, commenting on the Republican nominee, added, “If Pat McCrory is unable to tackle Charlotte’s tough issues, like crime and public safety, how can he tackle tough issues that all North Carolinians face? Fortunately, North Carolinians have a far better alternative: Bev Perdue.”

In Indiana, Long Thompson will mount a strong challenge against Gov. Mitch Daniels in the fall. A poll released last week by the Mike Downs Center for Indiana Politics showed that 55 percent of voters think the state is on the wrong track, making it a prime pick-up opportunity for Democrats.

“Jill Long Thompson represents the promise of positive change and offers Hoosiers an opportunity to get the state moving in the right direction,” Gov. Manchin said. “Hoosiers are ready for a Governor who puts them first and tackles the issues most important to them. Jill is poised to be that Governor.”

“Hoosiers are considerably worse off under Mitch Daniels than they were four years ago,” Daschle added. “Property and sales taxes are significantly up, while personal income is significantly down. The state is hemorrhaging good-paying jobs, and many families are struggling to make ends meet. Jill Long Thompson offers Hoosiers the promise of real, positive change and the opportunity to put Indiana back on track.”

Gov. Manchin concluded, “Candidates like Bev Perdue and Jill Long Thompson remind us why there are successful Democratic Governors in every corner of the country. They are sharply focused on getting results and passionately dedicated to improving the quality of life for the citizens of their states.”

“David Paterson is a bridge-builder focused on getting results. With more than two decades of public service experience, he knows how to bring people together to get the job done. New York has an exciting future under David’s leadership.

“The DGA embraces and welcomes David to the ranks of Democratic Governors. A tireless champion for improving people’s quality of life, David is in good company among the nation’s 28 Democratic Governors, a growing majority in every corner of the country.

“My fellow Democratic Governors and I look forward to working with David as he leads New York forward.”

“I am thrilled that Colleen has agreed to join the DGA team,” said Gov. Manchin. “Colleen brings to the organization a wealth of experience, and I am confident that her drive, professionalism and skill set will put the DGA on course to raise record amounts in 2008.”

Turrentine was most recently the National Finance Director for Gov. Bill Richardson’s presidential campaign. She also served as the National Finance Director at the Democratic Leadership Council. She has worked to raise funds for such organizations as America Coming Together, the New York State Democratic Committee, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, and Mark Dayton for U.S. Senate.

In addition to Turrentine, the finance staff expands with Paul Schnaitter, who was named Deputy Finance Director. Schnaitter was previously a Regional Finance Director for the Bill Richardson for President campaign. The political staff expands with Ray Glendening, who was named Deputy Political Director. Glendening served as Deputy National Field Director also in Gov. Richardson’s presidential campaign and spent five years at AFSCME International prior to that. Brinkley Serkedakis and Lindsay Baker were promoted to Deputy Political Director and Deputy Finance Director, respectively.

“The recent additions to the political and finance teams will position the DGA to continue its unprecedented successes from 2006 and 2007,” said Gov. Manchin. “In 2008, we will be looking to break our all-time fundraising record of $18.3 million and expand the ranks of Democratic governors. This team is the key to making that happen.”

In January 2007, the DGA launched an unprecedented four-year political plan to continue Democratic governors’ political success through 2010. This effort, called Project 2010, calls for early and strategic political engagement, as well as financing strategies that have an eye on the DGA’s long-term political goals. In the first year of this plan, the DGA achieved its financial and political goals by shattering its previous fundraising record and defeating an incumbent Republican governor for the second year in a row. By contrast, no Democratic governor has been defeated since 2004. At the end of 2007, the DGA banked more than $7.2 million – roughly six times its previous cash-on-hand record – thereby erasing the Republicans’ traditional cash advantage. In the second year of Project 2010, the DGA aims to continue its momentum by retaining its incumbents and open seats, while defeating a Republican incumbent for the third year in a row.

Discussing Project 2010 and this year’s 11 gubernatorial races, DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle said, “Less than two years ago, the idea of holding more than 28 governorships was a distant fantasy. Today, because of the foundation we laid over the last year, it’s a probability.” Daschle added, “When Matt Blunt announced last month that he was not going to seek re-election, the news must have hit Mitch Daniels the hardest. Daniels is now the most vulnerable incumbent in 2008.”

This year is one in which Democratic governors hold tremendous sway over the presidential election. It is the first presidential election since 1992 when Democrats hold the majority of governorships, and Democratic governors have 8 of the ten closest states in 2004. Further, there are 294 electoral votes in states that have elected Democratic governors – 24 more than what are needed to win.

“The DGA is stronger today than ever before,” Gov. Manchin said. “More and more Americans are putting their confidence in Democratic governors, and the DGA has played an important role in shaping the current political landscape.” He added, “With the exciting additions to our finance and political teams, we are well-positioned to continue our record-breaking success in 2008 and beyond.”

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Chair Gov. Joe Manchin III of West Virginia, Finance Chair Gov. Martin O’Malley of Maryland, Federal Liaison Gov. Chet Culver of Iowa, and Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico renewed their partnership today with the U.S. House Democratic Caucus in Williamsburg, Virginia.

With so much at stake in the coming year, Democrats are uniting to strengthen the state-federal partnership. “As you know, a strong relationship between federal and state governments is critical as we work to move our nation forward and improve the quality of life for our constituents,” Gov. Manchin said. “By working closely together, we have the unprecedented opportunity to make progress on some of America’s most pressing issues – such as strengthening our economy, increasing our energy security, and expanding access to affordable health care.”

The governors discussed initiatives they are pursuing in their states to create jobs and improve state economies as they work to make America more competitive in the global marketplace.

Gov. Manchin and his colleagues will continue to work with leaders on Capitol Hill throughout the year, focusing on federal legislation particularly important to states. “We hope to be able to provide you with an unvarnished perspective of the implications – both positive and negative – federal policy decisions will have in our states,” Gov. Manchin said at the annual retreat. “We look forward to building on the existing relationship and establishing new avenues of collaboration in the year ahead.”

Democrats hold a majority of governorships (28) and are poised to expand that majority this year. In 2007, the DGA raised a record amount of money. It has $7.2 million cash on hand, more than seven times more than the DGA’s all-time cash on hand record. “The DGA is positioned well to make policy and political gains this year,” Gov. Manchin said. “More and more Americans are embracing the kind of common-sense, results-oriented leadership Democratic governors have to offer.”

“To build on our 2007 success, I’m pleased to announce Joe Manchin will begin his term as DGA Chair today,” Gov. Sebelius said. “And Brian Schweitzer begins as DGA Vice Chair. The DGA is on target to transform our momentum into more victories next year under Joe’s and Brian’s leadership.””

Gov. Sebelius discussed the major accomplishments during her term as Chair. “Our political successes were topped off by the election of Governor-elect Steve Beshear in Kentucky,” Gov. Sebelius said. “Our financial goals have been met and we’re ending the year in great shape for next year’s 11 gubernatorial races. It’s been a strong year for Democratic governors working together on important issues and I’m thrilled to see that continue.”

Other 2007 achievements include smashing the DGA’s $9.3 million fundraising record from four years ago, when, like this year, there were three races; banking an all time record of at least $6 million; and demonstrating significant national leadership on important policy issues like the State Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Gov. Manchin thanked Gov. Sebelius and said the DGA is ready to build upon the strong groundwork she laid. “A special thanks and congratulations go to Kathleen for leading the DGA so effectively throughout 2007. Her leadership provides a solid foundation upon which we can build our ranks next year and in the years to come,” Gov. Manchin said. “I’m very much looking forward to the year ahead. I assure you that we will continue the Democratic momentum from 2006 and 2007.”

Gov. Manchin, who previously served as the DGA’s Vice Chair, outlined four major goals for his term as Chair. First, he pledged to help re-elect all Democratic incumbents running (in New Hampshire, Montana, Washington, and West Virginia) and to retain the two Democratic open seats (in Delaware and North Carolina). Second, Gov. Manchin set the goal of expanding the majority of Democratic governors by at least one – by winning states like Missouri and Indiana, who have vulnerable Republican incumbents. Third, he said DGA will seek to break its all-time fundraising record of $18.3 million.

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Chair Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius this evening congratulated Gov.-elect Steve Beshear for winning Kentucky’s governorship. Gov.-elect Beshear defeated GOP Gov. Ernie Fletcher, continuing the Democratic momentum from 2006.

“My fellow Democratic governors and I congratulate Steve Beshear for his impressive victory in Kentucky,” Gov. Sebelius said. “Steve brought forth a message of restoring honesty and integrity to government, and voters overwhelmingly responded to his brand of leadership. We look forward to welcoming him to the ranks of Democratic governors.”

The three races for governor this year – in Kentucky, Mississippi, and Louisiana – were in states that voted for President Bush by double digit margins. “The story of 2007 is about Democrats waging strong campaigns deep in Bush territory,” Gov. Sebelius added. “The landscape this year was formidable, but tonight voters reaffirmed that their appetite for Democratic leadership reaches into every corner of the country.”

“Democrats continued the momentum from last year’s landslide election, and the DGA is in a great position for 2008 and beyond,” Gov. Sebelius said.

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle said, “Kentucky was our top priority for the year, and we are thrilled that one more state has enthusiastically voted for Democratic leadership. We held the Republicans on their own turf this year, and we are now in a great position to go on the offensive in 2008.”

“In the home state of the RNC Chairman, Kentucky voters tonight put an end to four years of Republican corruption and incompetence,” Daschle continued. “This is bad news for vulnerable Republican governors running for re-election in 2008. The three people most disappointed in tonight’s results are Ernie Fletcher, Matt Blunt, and Mitch Daniels.”

“The national trend is clear. Democrats are winning in ‘red’ and ‘blue’ states,” Gov. Sebelius said. Fifteen of the 28 Democratic governors serve in states that voted for Bush in 2004. Only six states with Republican governors voted for Kerry.

Gov. Sebelius said, “With bipartisan support, Democratic governors are initiating innovative changes and effectively governing in states across the country. It’s a good sign for working families across the country that more citizens are turning toward Democratic leadership.”

Gov. Sebelius will conclude her term as DGA Chair next month. Under her leadership, the DGA has seen unprecedented success. The DGA is on track to smash its previous fundraising record for year one in a four-year gubernatorial cycle with $9.3 million. The DGA has also launched an innovative, four-year political strategy called Project 2010. This strategy calls for switching to a four-year planning cycle to better prepare for the uneven distribution of gubernatorial races. By planning early for the 49 gubernatorial races that will take place between now and 2010, including 36 in the final year alone, the DGA is in a great position to build on its 28-seat majority over the next three years.”

“John Eaves’ victory tonight shows that voters are excited about his plans to make Mississippi stronger. With John Eaves as the Democratic nominee for governor, Mississippians will have an opportunity to vote for someone who will be on their side.

“As John shares his vision with people across the state, voters see a leader of strong faith and compassion. His deeply-rooted values are solidly in line with those of Mississippi families, and his message focuses on people rather than politics. As governor, John will expand access to health care, strengthen schools, create jobs and rebuild the Gulf Coast.

“The stakes in this race are high, and John is the kind of leader who has what it takes to win. That’s why tonight’s victory brings hard-working families a step closer to welcoming a new day for Mississippi.”