Turning Purple

Dear:

Further evidence that we've entered the winter of discontent in American politics comes from my traditionally "red" home state of Indiana, where only one in four Hoosiers thinks the country is headed in the right direction under President Bush. A recent Indianapolis Star survey outlined our Party's encouraging electoral prospects there in 2008.

For the first time in nearly a half-century, there are indications that a majority of Hoosiers are ready to vote for a Democrat for President. The last time this happened was 1964, when Indiana voters chose Lyndon Johnson over Barry Goldwater.

I am proud of the role that All America PAC has played in helping Indiana go from red to blue ... or at least "purple," as some pundits have dubbed Indiana's ongoing electoral metamorphosis. (Read respected Washington Post columnist Chris Cillizza's commentary on this.)

Indiana Democrats picked up three congressional seats last year with the election of outstanding, common-sense Representatives Joe Donnelly, Brad Ellsworth and Baron Hill. Our party made additional gains this fall in local elections, and there are now Democratic mayors in eight of Indiana's 10 largest cities.

The lesson here is clear: Pragmatic, principled Democrats can compete and win in traditional GOP strongholds like Indiana if they roll up their sleeves, get serious about security and hone in on the economic challenges facing ordinary middle class families.

In 327 days, Americans will elect a new President. Democrats have the opportunity to win back the White House and increase our congressional majorities, because we're right on the issues and have kept faith with the concerns of the voters who put us in office.

In 2008, the All America PAC will enthusiastically support candidates who embrace this sensible blueprint for success.

Sincerely,

Evan Bayh