August 28, 2008

From Louisville, Kentucky, ward boss Clarence Yancey is retired but does some catering on the side. He is 76 years old and thrilled with the convention. Obama was always Yancey’s choice for President, and he believes that there is even the possibility that Obama could win Kentucky. Yancey also believes that the Clintons are a critical component of the campaign to reach the rural (white) voters in Kentucky.

Hon. Alvin Brooks is a City Councilmember and prominent Black leader from Kansas City, Missouri, and has a long history in politics including two terms as Mayor Pro-Tem. He is optimistic about Obama’s chances in this state – there are supposedly 24 offices open in the state and tons of young people working for the candidate. Brooks does believe, however, that there is a disconnect between Obama the Democrat at the Presidential level versus local Democratic candidates for rural whites that must be addressed.

State Senator Yvonne Wilson is also from Kansas City, Missouri. She believe’s Obama’s biggest challenge is to “stay on message.” The rural voters have been impacted like everyone else – about gas prices and other key issues – and there is a chance the state could support him. The work of young people will be critical to success. Senator Wilson believes the Clintons’ support is critical and their speeches can be powerful weapons.