A few of us Obama supporters in the Phoenix area decided to take the Presidential campaign to McCain territory the day after the first debate and couldn't think of a better location than one of the McCain residences. We decided that the condominium in one of the most affluent areas of Phoenix, the Arizona Biltmore, would be best. This location would provide encounters with Republican, Independent and potentially undecided voters. The rally would also encourage Obama supporters who need to know they are not alone in a state which hasn't voted for a Democratic Presidential candidate since Bill Clinton in 1996.
Instead of a single location we covered a busy stretch of Camelback Road from 24th Street (at the base of the McCain residence) to 44th Street.
The turnout in the 100 degree desert heat was young and old as well as some folks who pulled over and joined the cause.
Some of the responses from those who waved signs were:
"This was great! We had several positive responses with very few negatives at 24th Street and Camelback (in clear view of the Esplanade [closest to the McCain residence]) - great organizing - two thumbs up. Arizona voted for Clinton in the past - this state could go Obama and send a big statement!" - Pam from Phoenix
"We got a lot of great responses today on Camelback... we need this kind of exposure. This kind of event gives you the feeling that we're definitely not alone! It's no longer a "waste" to vote Democratic here!" - Andrea from Phoenix
Although an overwhelming majority of responses were positive with honking horns, thumbs up signs, and the occasional stopping and exchange of pleasantries, there were a few passing cars, trucks and SUVs with angry drivers and passengers.
Some negative experiences that stood out were the white Ford Excursion with a driver who yelled from his frothing mouth "you mother f***ing f***** communists get off our streets" and the lifted black king cab pickup truck which yelled "get a job losers" and continued to cruise our rally route in an apparent attempt to intimidate Obama supporters. One other apparent McCain supporter yelled to my wife "show us your tits."
Of the positive encounters, most memorable was an emotional elderly female passenger in a Mercedes. She brought her window down to say "Thank you for what you are doing out here, we really need this change, yes we can and yes we will" and then she made a fist and pumped it towards the sky. Supporters during the three hour rally were young and old of all races. Those who were driving work trucks and buses did not shy away from honking in support.
At the heart of the Obama Campaign is a movement that engages people street by street, block by block, and neighborhood by neighborhood. Surprise John McCain, this includes your neighborhoods too.