Still Fighting
I wanted to start by just saying thank you – thank you to each and every one of you who have come together in the johnkerry.com community.
Thanks to you, we have a new Democratic Congress that is fighting to stop the administration’s disastrous course in Iraq, thanks to you we can be a Congress that addresses issues like climate change and health care, and thanks to you, change is coming to Washington.
Over the last two years, when you could’ve walked off the field after getting knocked down in 2004, you didn’t walk away, you kept fighting. Together, three million strong, you helped provide $14 million to more than 260 candidates, committees and progressive causes. Nineteen of those candidates received over $100,000 each in donations from our community. Just think of the special support that you helped us provide to veterans running for office – helping to make Chris Carney, Tim Walz, Joe Sestak, and Patrick Murphy members of Congress today. And because you dug in early when a lot of people said it couldn’t be done, you helped a courageous Vietnam veteran Jim Webb on his march to become the 51st Senator and give Democrats our majority in the Senate.
I hope you are as proud of what you’ve accomplished as I am. But this isn’t a time to rest on our accomplishments.
The work isn’t over. Today I hope you’ll help me with another big mission.
35 years ago, I got into public life to end a war that was wrong. I believe now as strongly as I did then that it is wrong to ask more young Americans to die for anyone’s mistakes. And I believe that a Congress that shares responsibility for getting us into this war must bear responsibility for getting us out.
Americans went to the polls and voted for change in Iraq. They sent a strong and clear message to all of us, on both sides of the aisle, that they wanted real change in Iraq. They certainly did not vote for us to sit by while some national leaders actually advocate escalating the war and sending more American troops into the middle of an Iraqi civil war. We must stand for a change in Iraq, or we don’t stand for anything at all.
This mission, this responsibility, is something all of us must accept. As someone who voted for the resolution that gave the president the authority to go to war, I feel the weight of a personal responsibility to act.
I sought the presidency to lead us on a different course. There are powerful reasons to want to continue that fight now. But I’ve concluded this isn’t the time for me to mount a presidential campaign. It is the time to put my energy to work as part of the new Democratic majority in the Senate, to do all I can to end this war and strengthen our security and our ability to fight the real war on terror.
The people of Massachusetts have given me an incredible privilege to serve in the Senate, to represent the birthplace of freedom, the cradle of liberty, and a state where in Faneuil Hall patriotic dissenters stood on principle. I want to continue representing Massachusetts, and that’s why I am running for reelection so I can use my voice all day every day to end this war and galvanize grassroots action to force Washington and our Democratic Party to live up to its responsibility.
Together, all of us, starting with the three million of you who have built this online community, must remain steadfast in protecting the principles we fought for every day of our campaign. You have a responsibility to urge those who are running this time to step up and address those issues, and particularly on Iraq to find not just a new way forward, but the right way forward.
Above all else, the mission we must all join is to end the war in Iraq.
Our first step toward that goal is to force President Bush to set a deadline to redeploy our troops.
I hope you will come to www.setadeadline.com and take the opportunity to speak out on the importance of setting a deadline to redeploy our troops and bring our heroes home. Speak out at www.setadeadline.com.
Now that a new Democratic Congressional majority has convened in the U.S. Capitol, a deadline must be set. Working together as Americans, holding leaders accountable, is our best hope to ensure that it is.
Please come to www.setadeadline.com and get on board.
Thank you,
John
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Bless you and thank you, Senator Kerry. You are true to the mission you undertook when you first entered public office and you will never let our troops or our country down.
I thank you for your leadership and I will always honor you for your patriotism and dedication to Making It Right.
My best wishes to you and your family.
Thank You Sir for being a great American. God Bless you and your Family
Don’t make me cry!
My respect and great gratitude to Senator Kerry. It is going to be tough to go through the next two years without your guidance as a candidate. I hope you continue the good work you have been doing and you have my support 100% as you did back in 1971. But this time, let’s avoid the all nighters around blazing trash cans.
On second thought, if its necessary to stay up all night in a cold Washington rain staring into blazing trash cans - Reporting for Duty, Sir!
Well, Senator, I understand why you made the decision that you did. It deeply saddens me, but I understand it nonetheless.
I don’t doubt for a second that you will continue to fight for the issues that matter - Iraq, healthcare, the environment, minimum wage, America’s lost standing in the world - I know you’ll be there.
As always, whether you’re a Presidential candidate or not, you’ve got my support in whatever you do.
And like Senator Kennedy said on the Senate floor today, I’m one of the Americans who will always be proud of you.
All the best to you and your family.
Victoria (KerryOn62)
Minnesota
There are not enough words to describe my reaction to Senator Kerry’s speech today on the floor of the Senate. Brilliant. Impassioned. Inspired and inspiring.
Senator Kerry, thank you for reminding us that there are individuals in government who so love this country that what they can accomplish means more than what position they hold. You are one of the finest leaders in government today.
I am sure you will succeed with your current mission to help us achieve both a swift withdrawal of troops from the travesty in Iraq and to do so with a political and diplomatic victory.
Since John Kennedy, there has not been anyone in government whose words so moved me as yours did today. I was never prouder of my vote for you in the last Presidential election.
Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for our country.
God bless you and yours.
I believe that by virtue of not being a candidate in the 2008 Presidential Election, combined with your years of experience and leadership skills, you will have a greater degree of credibility than many of your Democratic colleagues. The American public will have no reason to question the motivation behind your proposals.
There’s no question that had Bush run an ethical campaign in 2004, you would be the president today. That must have been a tremendously difficult experience for you and your family. However, you are clearly demonstrating the depth of your convictions and the strength of your resolve by continuing the good fight. Undoubtedly, you will make many invaluable contributions over the next two years; to the benefit of the American people and your own sense of accomplishment. I wish you all the best.
Senator,
What can I say? Although I am very disappointed there will not be a Kerry Presidency, I think it was ultimately the right decision. Back in 2004, you inspired me to get interested in politics, and I hope to follow you to the Senate. You are my hero. So for that, I thank you. You have helped me find my passion. Please know there are 3 million of us here who will always support you. In the meantime, we will be counting on you to stand up for us in the Senate for 6 more years!
Thanks again and God bless,
Thomas Senecal
Bowie, MD
Age 14
Thank you Senator Kerry for working so hard for the 2006 elections and all that you did to help gain a congressional majority. We will never forget that, or all that you have done since 2004 (and since 1971 for that matter). I am saddened but at the same time comforted by the fact that you will continue to be our “voice” in the Senate.
Kerry on John......
Dear Senator Kerry,
Thank you for your service to your party, your state, and your country. I am still very, very regretful that you didn’t win in 2004 - and I think there are millions who now wish they had voted for you. Please fight on in the Senate to bring our country back to sanity on all levels. All the best to you and your family.
Thank you for all your hard work Senator Kerry. Not only for the people you represent as a Senator but for all us Americans wherever we may be. I’m so sad you’re not running for president and I think you would have been an amazing president and just right for our times with your past in the public life. I understand this must have been a difficult decision and while I’m sad you’re not going to run in 2008 I’m glad to know though you’re still there fighting for what’s right and just and I’ll always be proud you were my first vote to cast for. You’ll always have my support and can always count on me. Thank you again and also thank you for keeping in touch with everyone and doing what’s important in the Senate. God bless you, Teresa and your family.
Thank you, Senator Kerry, for being such an inspiring presidential candidate two years ago and for continuing to speak since then for those Americans who believed in your message and who were not being served by the leaders of our country. My family and I are grateful for all that you and your family have done to uphold the dignity and intelligence of political life in America. Thank you for providing a positive role model for my children during an era in which they are often embarrassed by actions of political leaders. We wish you all the best as you continue to serve the people of Massachusetts. Please keep raising your voice for all those who can’t. Again, many thanks.
Thank you Senator Kerry for your continued dedication and service to this country. I am saddened by your decision not to run for President but I fully understand. I know that while you are in Congress, you will continue to look out for all Americans especially our Vets. I am not a Massachussets resident, but I will do whatever I can to see that you are re-elected. You make me proud to be a member of the Democratic party! All the best to you and your family.
Dear Senator Kerry,
I think you made the correct decision in not running for President in 2008. I think you have been very effective as our Senator, and am glad that you are choosing to continue to fight for Massachusetts, and our country, on the floor of the Senate. While the results of the 2004 election were devastating to many of us, and the world would be a better place if you were President now, there is a light at the end of the tunnel with the 2006 Democrat take over of Congress. Thank you for all you do!
Sincerely,
Donna Twohig
I still have your back, Senator.
Keep fighting, John. I still got your back, as well as everyone else!
Great work, man. You’re a great guy.
Brandon
Senator Kerry - your speech on the floor of the senate today was inspiring, moving, and absolutely correct in every respect. it is to the detriment of the united states and the world that you are not president. I would have had no hesitation voting for you again, but I respect and understand your decision, and am so grateful you will continue to fight in the senate for the causes that matter to most americans.
thank you for your service, and your leadership. you are a wonderful man, and I look forward to supporting your re-election and many more years in the majority in the senate.
I was very sorry to hear that Senator Kerry has decided not to run for President in 2008. Now, America will be left to choose from “the best of the rest.” That said, I respect that Senator Kerry made what he felt was the best decision for himself, his family, and our country, and I look forward to his continued service to our nation in his current position.
Best wishes to both the Senator and his staff in their fight to achieve healthcare for America’s kids, protect our environment, restore U.S. credibility, and bring our sad misadventure in Iraq to a just conclusion.
Dear Senator Kerry,
Although I am sad you won’t be a part of the 08 debates and running, I am grateful that you will continue to be a strong voice in the Senate on the Iraq War, voting rights, and Katrina legislation.
I am still proud to cast my first vote for you in 2004, and you have one thing that the 08 candidates lack, integrity, integrity, integrity.
I wish you and Teresa (aka Momma T) the best.
Indie
This is one of the worst days of my life. Senator Kerry, you are not just a great American. You are one of the greatest leaders this world has ever known. I wish you had decided to run for President in 2008; but I will respect your decision not to. It hurts me immensely, but I will learn to live with it.
I will never forgive the Republican Noise Machine, the Rightwing liars, who besmirched you so disgracefully in 2004. You are a true war hero. I am not even American. I am Indian. Yet I care about America, and I care about this world. And I know that your voice, your work, can change the course.
What Louis Fischer wrote in Mahatma Gandhi’s honour is today very appositely applicable to you: John Kerry is a good leader, a great leader, perhaps one of the greatest leaders this world has seen in the last 2000 years. I am with you, sir. And I am honoured to be led by a man like you. Whatever you do, we are with you.
Please speak up for progressive causes, for gay rights and pro-choice, but also for the end of the genocide in Darfur; for the end of the senseless war in Iraq; for the end of poverty; for the end of hunger; for making multiple-identities acceptable. Long live your leadership, Sir.
Sen. Kerry,
We send you the best and you deserve the best--the best fight is yet to come however. Thank you for your classiness, your nobility, your honesty, and your service. We know we are not finsihed with the work that needs to be done.
Thanks also to the JK.com community. I know we will not go away but will help in these next steps to restoring democracy and ending this horrific war.
Peace,
Karen
Senator Kerry.
Welcome home brother.
I was infantry in 1969 because I chose to do my duty rather than run away from my responsibility. My college deferment ran out when I went to work to support my wife and child. While I did not want to go to war, that is what you do when called. I support your decisions in going to war and when you protested it upon returning.
Thank you for your long years of service to our country and I applaud your decision to forgo the coming election campaign. I expect you were seeing too many oars in the water and there is still the fake stigma of the Swiftboat liars to deal with. I sincerely hope that you can work hard for the party to expose the fraudulent and scurrilous statements that those people are already developing and planting.
Whiskey Two Zero, a brother in arms.
Senator Kerry:
Most of us who supported you in the 2004 election were distraught, and felt utterly betrayed, when you announced that, even if you had known in early 2003 that there were no WMD in Iraq, you would still have voted for the authorization to start the war. To many of us, hearing you say that was one of those moments that was so powerfully upsetting that we even remember where we were standing, in utter disbelief, when we heard you say it. It is because of that moment, among others, that you find yourself with so little support for another run.
I hope that you will impress on whomever our party nominates for president that this was a profound mistake on your part; that no candidate is going to win anything so long as he or she is constantly reading polls and trying to position him or herself a hair to the left of the Republicans. We’ve had enough handwringing and posturing. Get real and be who you are. If you had just stood up and said the war was wrong and you made a mistake voting for it, you’d be president now.
We wanted the John Kerry we saw testifying before Congress during the Vietnam war. Instead, we got someone who’d lost track of who he was.
Shame on you for not standing against the war when your position would have meant something.
I am so sad that you will not be running for President in 2008. I know it is something that you prepared for your whole life, and it must be so hard to let go of that dream. Had things gone differently in Ohio, you would have been the man giving last night’s speech, only it would have been about the great progress that had been made since you took office in 2004.
It is sad that the American people will never get to know all that could have been done with your expert guidance. You are the most presidential of them all, and I hope that you never short change yourself as I believe the circumstances of the past have.
I wish the best for yourself and for your family. May you find peace in the ability you now have to speak your mind outside the scrutiny of those who do not have the best interests of the American people in mind, and who constantly sabotage our quest for truly great leaders.
Can you still change your mind? I think you should run!
Do what Leiberman did in CT in 2000, run for both President and the Senate. Can’t hurt.
Senator Kerry:
I first came to know who you were 35 years ago in 1971, when both of us as Vietnam veterans were active in the GI antiwar movement that ultimately had a very great deal to do with finally puting a stop to that war. I said then that I thought you’d become a great presidential candidate one day, and you did. I was proud to support you “before Iowa”, and throughout the campaign, and voting for you in November 2004 was the first time I had enthusiastically voted for a Democrat for President since 1976. I only regret you didn’t win.
That said, I am really proud to see you make the right choice about 2008, that you have demonstrated once again that you are committed to fighting the great fight and winning, and that you place that above personal desires. To do so is the mark of the truly great man I have always thought you were that, and I am glad to see that belief proven right.
I just want to end by saying that if you had run again, I would have voted for you again. But you have made the right choice here, and I look forward to supporting you in the future for so long as you remain in the Senate as you continue to fight the good fight for the things we all know our country is truly about. When you look at the long line of distinguished Statesment of the Senate who came from Massachusetts, you will now enter a truly great fraternity.
You were a man of honor and conscience 35 years ago who took the right action, regardless, and you still are. As a Navy veteran of Vietnam I can only say I wish I’d had the privilege to serve under an officer like you.
Best regards for the future,
T.M. Cleaver
JK says:
“There are powerful reasons to want to continue that fight now. But I’ve concluded this isn’t the time for me to mount a presidential campaign.”
IFK Editor Says:
So you’re telling me there’s a chance?!
JK, after you get the Iraq mess turned around and the troops on the way home, then maybe the country will demand you run. We got your back. Thank you.
Senator Kerry,
Though I wish it weren’t so, I respect your decision and know it was made after much soul searching and consideration. Thank you for your 35 years “and counting” of public service. At least it’s comforting to know that you are fighting for us every day in the Senate, and pray that this will be the case for many many years to come. All the best to you and your family.
Thank you Senator Kerry for your service to America.
As one of your “band of brothers” on the internet, we were ready to continue to advance your campaign. And still believe that the nation would be better with you as President and not just Senator.
But we understand your decision, although we are mighty disappointed.
A great leader must know which battles to fight. This President has demonstrated his poor judgment by initiating a war in Iraq on lies. This was your decision to make.
But you should know that those of us who ‘had your back’ the last several years aren’t moving on to another popular movement. We are here to work with you on issues facing this nation.
Robert Freedland
John Kerry for President 2008
p.s. We are early for 2012
This is indeed very sad news. I am saddened by the senator’s decision to not seek the presidency again. He has been a strong voice against this war and will continue to be one in the future. No other candidate has been more forceful in their opposition to the civil war in Iraq. His decision to not seek the presidency is respected as it must be. I look forward to passage of his bill to set a date to redeploy troops in Iraq. It is time to redeploy and bring our troops home. We will continue to need his leadership on this important issue. With his absence from the presidential race we will no longer have a strong anti-war candidate to look up to. He will no doubt continue to serve the people of MA and be a leading voice of dissent on this war. Thank you for your continued service to your country. God bless you Sir for being a voice for those of us who have none.
Dear Senator Kerry,
Your wonderful speech today on the floor of the senate moved me to tears. Your intelligence, wisdom, and leadership continue to be an inspiration to millions of us. Thank you for all that you’ve done and continue to do for our country. God bless you.
Cabbie Glass
Wenatchee, WA.
Senator Kerry, I called your D.C. office as soon as I heard the (what I consider) sad news that you weren’t running for Prez in ‘08...I almost cried...But I will respect and support your decision not to run.
Even tho I don’t have the good fortune to be a constituent of yours, I’m very glad that you will still be a political factor to be reckoned with! Your long and stellar years of service to our country are invaluable, and your courage, honor, and integrity are unrivaled!!
I will gladly continue to be a member of the JohnKerry.com community--our work is far from over!!!
Much love and respect, Windgoddess
While I am greatly disappointed that you will not be running for president, I’m glad that you’ll be continuing your service to your nation as my public servant, as my senator. Though I firmly believe that you had a chance, you faced a very daunting challenge in logically convincing more emotional Democrats that you are the most experienced--in both campaigning and policy--of all the possible candidates. You would have made a great president, and I’m sad that we won’t be seeing you in the Oval Office anytime soon.
Since you’re not running for president next year, I hope some sour-grapes Democrats will be able to get over 2004 and support your efforts in the Senate to end the bloodshed in Iraq. It’s imperative that we stop more American troops dying over there, and the only way to do that is to defund the escalation and deny Bush’s future spending requests.
With your exit from the 2008 race, you’ll be able to focus on this hard yet necessary task without fearing it would negatively impact your presidential campaign. Now, your only objective is to bring the immoral, illegal, and mishandled Iraq War to a close.
You are the one of the great statesmen of our time, and yet, like Henry Clay, denied the presidency on more than one occasion. But we remember Mr. Clay in spite of his presidential election losses, and history will remember you as an inspiring leader that never gave up.
Don’t give up now. I look forward to the next two years of your term in office, and I look forward to voting for you in 2008 to continue your service to our state and our nation.
Senator Kerry-
I’m saddened to hear of your decision not to run for president this time around, but I respect and understand your decision. Your hard work and dedication have already left an indelible mark on our country, and I’m so glad that you’ll continue to fight for us in the Senate (I’m not even from Massacusettes, but I consider you my honorary senator!) There are a lot of us out there who’ve got your back and will continue to do so.
All the best,
Elizabeth
Senator Kerry,
I hope you understand what it means to be called a Kerry supporter. It means we are compelled to keep fighting because you never give up. It means that when the situation looks bleak, we can look forward to words, like those you spoke today, that inspire hope. It means that when America desperately needs leadership---for the sake of country, not self---we can count on you to do what you have done throughout your years of public service, step up and provide it.
Thank you for being you, and please know that millions of people, like me, will feel the hurt for a short while, but will continue to have your back.
I am looking forward and counting on your leadership on ending the war and all the other issues, which the Congress must address, that are of great importance to all Americans.
Best wishes to you and your family.
Dear Senator Kerry,
While I respect and understand your decision not to run, I will admit to being heartbroken nonetheless. With you opting out goes our last chance at a truly honest and qualified leader.
Yes, the rest of the field are, on the face of it, formidable candidates. But take away media hype and glamour, and what are you left with? Nothing compared to what you would have brought to the debate.
Still, how could any one of us give up on you now that you have promised to continue the fight in the Senate? As one of your constituents, I will support your reelection campaign, and I help in any way I can in your fight to end the war and make this a better place.
Senator Kerry,
To put it simply, you are the best of America. And you are my hero.
I was moved when Senator Harry Reid said on the Senate floor, “I love you, John Kerry.” I love you too. We all do, and you have made us proud, and will continue to make us proud, at every step of your incredible journey.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for all you have done and will do.
For those of you who want to see the Senator’s heartbreakingly moving and honest speech on the Senate Floor, it is here: http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=2820145
It reduced me to tears. This is one of the worst days of my life.
Sir John Kerry,
I have to thank you for the passion and determination that you throw into the political process.
Thank you also for having the fortitude and wisdom to get out of the way and allow dems to choose another nominee for 2008. This must be a tough choice. I admire you more for going this way. I believe you have buttressed the party and the senate by confirming your commitment to Massachusetts.
Please continue to fight for the people who have been shut out of the process.
Also, we hope to continue to hear you on the Ed Schultz show. Not only does this bring your wisdom into the eardrums of americans across the country, it keeps you fresh in our minds. I heard Ed say the other day he enjoys interviewing you.
Senator Kerry, it’s a sad day for all of us and it certainly was a difficult decision for you to make. But let me tell you, that I’m not that disappointed. The saddest day for me was November 3rd 2004. And back then I didn’t even know everything about you that I know now. I had got to like you though during the campaign and hoped so much for America and the world that we wouldn’t have to put up with Bush for four more years.
It wasn’t until Jan/Feb 05 when I started to read up on you and really became a strong supporter of you. It didn’t even cross my mind then that you could consider a second run. Later it became a tempting thought but with the starting primary wars and all these venomous attacks going on an on, even before, I’m glad you aren’t running again. I personally think that you never just ran because you wanted absolutely to be president but because you felt that your country needed someone in 2004 to step up to Bush, his war mongering and the mounting fascism.
Unfortunately the country wasn’t ready for that in 04. Since then the situation has completely changed, and with the Democrats controlling Congress now, I think you are right to focus on ending the war in Iraq. That was always your mission since Vietnam, as you stated so impressively again this morning in the SFRC.
For me you are the greatest American I’ve ever met, and I will support you in whatever you will do in the future because I know it will always be for the right causes. I’m also sure that that wasn’t the last we heard and saw from you. You will fight the good fight for many years to come. And the most urgent goal now is to end the war in Iraq. Thank you so much for everything you are doing! Not only Americans are thankful for it.
Bettina
John:
Today you reminded us all what it means to be a Kerry supporter. Meaning maintaining an iron grip on your integrity. Standing tall in and with character. Owning your responsibilities, and most of all, following your heart.
As much as I am disappointed in losing you on the national scene, the two years of my life volunteering to campaign for you were the most life-affirming and opening ones I’ve had in a long time. Your campaign awakened in me a once-quiet voice, that now shouts because you taught us all about standing up for your beliefs.
I think you are doing that today, and furthermore, I look forward to watching you spread your wings and bring this country to closure on a misbegotten war again--this time, Iraq.
Perhaps this is really what you’ve been brought here to us to do. And if that’s the case, you have heaven’s work in your hands.
Help us all bring them home John. Its your time for this once again. And we need you now more than ever.
Fe from Berkeley
Senator Kerry,
I support you in this decision no matter how painful it is to do so at the moment. You were the best qualified to be President of the United States in 2004 and you remain the best qualified to lead our nation today.
The war in Iraq is a horrible debacle and only your leadership can set things straight. You are a leader we can count on for the truth and for the courage it takes to force change.
Thank you for continuing to fight for what is right. You will always have my unwavering support in whatever you do.
Senator,
Thank you so much for taking on the fight to end the war in Iraq, and thank you for all you’ve done up to this point to try and make Americans understand and support your vision for our country. I’m sure it will come as no surprised that I am devastated over the political implications of your decisions, but, for better or for worse, the “love” in question over at welovejohnkerry.com is not conditional
We will always be proud of you. We will always try to live the values you represent. We will always have your back. Thanks for being the best citizen we know.
All the best to you and your family,
dc
Senator, thanks for all you have done and will continue to do. I am very disappointed you have decided to not run, though I hope you have not given up forever, and will decide to run at some point in the future.
I hope you will continue to fight for those of us who don’t live in Massachussets (I am sure you will). We all need you, not just those that are lucky enough to have you representing their state.
Meg
St. Louis, Missouri.
It helps to look at it this way: we’re not losing a potential president, we’re gaining a powerful senator.
As a candidate, Mr. Kerry’s time would be tied up for the next couple of years chasing the dragon on the campaign trail. As a senator, he’s free to spend his considerable energies chasing warmongers and war profiteers instead.
As a candidate, Mr. Kerry’s hands would be at least partly tied by the very nature of the role. As a senator, he doesn’t have to pull his punches and he’s free to smack down corrupt officials and dishonest politicians instead.
As a candidate, Mr. Kerry’s voice would have to be tempered by the conflicting demands of pandering pundits and political hacks. As a senator, he is free to boldly speak truth to power in public from a position of strength.
As a candidate, Mr. Kerry would have to constantly be defending himself and his family from unfair attacks. As a senator, he will be free to take the battle to the bad guys on their own shaky ground instead.
As a candidate, Mr. Kerry would have my trust, my respect, and my admiration. As a senator, he already has those things from me as well. And he will continue to have them as long as he is in public office and standing up for the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
JK
My heart is heavy to, but your choice reminds us all what a truly great man you are. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done for our nation and like other’s here have expressed, I’ve still got your back!
Well, I agree with everything that everyone has said on this thread, so it’s hard to know what to add. But I’ll try this:
I’ve always been an informed citizen, always voted, always cared. But since I became a voter in 1968, I have never, NEVER before met anyone whom I felt so strongly should be president. You, sir, are the Real Thing: a good man with a wonderful family, with the integrity, experience, broad knowledge , innovative ideas and moral courage to lead our nation back to its real self , all the elements of a great president. You are presidential timber for REAL. I am proud to have worked hard for you in the primaries and general election, I’m proud that you’re still my Senator, and I have no doubt that you will keep fighting. You will always have my full support, my gratitude, and my admiration. And I can’t wait to read your environment book!
Finally, I wanted to say that I’ve been appalled to watch how some of my fellow Democrats have let you down in recent months. Their behavior speaks ill of them, not of you. As usual, you have handled those issues and those people with courage and class. I hope you know how many very loyal supporters and admirers you have across this country, and beyond: your “Band of Brothers” now numbers in the millions, and we are proud to say that we will always have your back. We are in the fight with you. Always.You are the kind of person that makes this country worth fighting for.
Dear Senator Kerry,
Though I greatly respect your decision not to run for the presidency in 2008, this is indeed a very sad day for America.
In your concession speech in 2004, you said:
“You may not understand completely in what ways, but it is true when I say to you that you have taught me and you have tested me and you’ve lifted me up and you’ve made me stronger.”
This is exactly how I feel about you Senator Kerry. I am a better person today, because of you. You lead by example with heart and with integrity - it will be difficult to find another politician to support who has that rare ability.
Please know that even though I am not a resident of Massachusetts, I will continue to support you in any way possible and will still look to you for guidance.
Thank you Senator Kerry, for everything.
I wish nothing but the best for you, Teresa and your entire family.
Thank you for everything John Kerry. You have brought hope to millions of Americans.Truly a great American Hero. I’m extremely disappointed you’re not in the field for 2008. I have always had you’re back and always will. God Bless and keeping fighting for what is right in this world.
Senator, thank you. For everything you’ve done and everything I know you’ll continue to do, you have my sincerest admiration and respect.
As painful as it was to hear you say today that you won’t run in ’08, I trust your judgement and support your decision. I’ll take your words to heart and never stop fighting for you and with you.
Give ‘em hell in the Senate, sir. And remember that we’re always here when you need us, just like you’ve always been for us.
Damn, it’s times like this I wish I was as brave as John Kerry.
Dear Senator Kerry:
Today was a sad day for me. I respect your decision not to run for president, but I certainly am glad that you will continue to be a senator in MA and run for re-election. I have come to admire you greatly for your leadership, integrity, and honesty, which is certainly lacking in many of our leaders of today. I know you will continue to work hard for the American people and will do everything you can to bring our troops home where they belong.
This has been the worst 6 years of my life, (since Bush came in office) listening to the lies, seeing our young killed and maimed in an unjust war, all because of an administration so bent on going to war “for what”? This administration has done nothing in these six years to help the American family, not one iota; they only cared about the wealthy. It’s an abomination.
May God bless you and your family. Keep up the good work and keep fighting for us. Your supporters love you.
Thank you Senator Kerry for continuing the revival of what America was born to be. Your and the other Democrat’s victories in the Senate and House will surely continue and I hope they revive a spirit in all Americans that has been lost since the days of Vietnam.
From what I’ve studied, many politicians since that time feel the race of President is a celebrity showdown: whomever can get the most votes with the flashiest slogans, ads and speeches… regardless of holding true to American values. You remain focused on what gives America a good name: belief and confidence in the freedoms our forefathers put forth when they formed our nation little more than 230 years ago.
Living in San Diego I don’t get much chance to meet our nation’s leaders, as the majority of California often votes for Democrats, making the large population difficult to win over. Down here, many of my peers pay little to no attention to politics, and that makes it difficult to bring forward the importance of such things. Thanks to the Internet, and your friends here at JohnKerry.com, I am able to express my views with individuals who share the same passion for America as you do.
I once knew a Vietnam veteran by the name of Jerry, and I listed closely to every story he had to tell. It saddens me, though, to know that a man such as him had risked his life for America, but to only come home a homeless, penniless man. It has taken him three decades to recover. I should hope that the same does not happen to the men and women defending freedom in the Middle East today do not have to live through such pain when they come home.
In the President’s speech last night, he mentioned that as long as there are terrorist, as long as there are those that wish to harm America, that America will be a nation at war. That sickens me to my stomach; there will always be proponents to our ways. Hey, that’s what Democracy is all about: the freedom to oppose. For us, we practice peacefully. I hope future Presidents will not view our nation as President Bush does.
You and the other Democrats in the Senate and House are a blessing to America. I believe this revival of America’s original purpose continues and instills that spirit in all Americans, and spread to others across the globe. Such as shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall, democracy began to become strongly embraced around the world. However, because of our current President’s view on “with us or against us” it has rebuilt that wall that divides the world. I dare say that wall is building around America’s borders.
Continue to push on in the Senate not just for America, not just for democracy, but for the future of the world’s peace. Only when democracy is truly practiced with diplomacy abroad, will democracy truly be embraced.
Thank you Senator Kerry!
Dear Senator Kerry,
My heart is heavy, the tears have been flowing all day, just as they did on November 3, 2004. I am grateful for your many years of tireless and honorable service for our country, at times standing alone, yet believing in yourself and your message.
I respect your decision to remain a loyal Senator for the fortunate people of Massachusetts. I trust we of the johnkerry.com community will continue to receive your e-mail and call to action requests forever. Count on me to continue to support all your efforts in the U.S. Senate to the best of my ability, beginning with your “Set a Deadline” legislation co-sponsorship plan. It is in the works!
I have prayed since 2004 that you would be divinely guided and directed in your presidential decision making process. I now believe you are on another special mission to diplomatically bring our heroes home from Iraq and continue the fight for our American values so beautifully stated in your “Ten Point Plan.”
I love you, too, Senator Kerry. God Bless You, Teresa and your wonderful family with health, happiness and many peaceful moments in the days ahead.
Dotti
I want to take some time to write a thoughtful note to John Kerry. But for now I just want to say that he should not feel alone in accepting the responsibility and taking the burden of Iraq on his shoulders. He believed in our Country and President about Iraq. After 9/11 the stakes became really high in decisions to protect our Country. (I live in NY) There are people who were against the war in Iraq from the start and there are people who still defend Pres Bush decision to escalate the war. But I never would want to be either of those people. I know most people in Congress and those who are candidates for president never went of war for their Country. Sen. Kerry is like the people I know who serve our Country during Vietnam. We were not convinced on Vietnam but for our Country and friends people in my neighborhood served. No deferments or Canada for them. And when they came back they had experiences that where different than what was being said on TV and the newspapers, yes that is right, of what was said on TV and in the newspapers, and what the politicians said. But there was a brave Vet that came back from Nam and spoke the truth, John Kerry. But for this generation (my friends say “don’t trust anyone under 50” but for me you got to have faith in the 20‘s year olds because they are our future) all I have to say is this - my generation knows John Kerry and let me tell you Obama and Hillary are no John Kerry. I know John Kerry will keep fighting for our Country, even when it is unpopular. God bless John Kerry and his family.
Senator Kerry,
I am sad that you will not be running for president, but heartened that you will be in the Senate fighting for our values.
I was very moved by your speech on the Senate floor today in many different ways. Your knowledge of the Middle East is an inspiration to me to delve more deeply into the history (including the book you mentioned you had just read) there, and try to begin to understand why things are the way they are. You talked about getting the policy right in Iraq now, and how you will devote all of your energy to that. I understand why you could not run for president and focus completely on getting Iraq right. There is no doubt in my mind that you made the right choice.
You have been an inspiration to me to get involved. And Senator Webb’s excellent Democratic response last night was just the latest reminder that my small part volunteering for the Webb campaign is really making a difference in this nation’s discourse. Your encouragement meant Webb had that much a better chance to win Virginia, and the Democratic control of the Senate that will allow you to make a real difference.
My support for you was never based on what office you held, but the realization to me that you’re the “real deal”. Your decision to stay in the Senate does not change that fact one iota.
God bless to you and Teresa and all of your family.
Thank You for your service to our country.
I had tears in my eyes today just as I did in Nov. 2004.
2008 will not be the same without you in the ring fighting the good fight.
You have inspired me deeply about politics.
I wish you continued success and I personally will continue to follow your career.
With Regards
Eric
Dear Senator Kerry:
I once told you that I had voted for you every time your name was before me on a ballot. I never got to finish that comment. I did so because you were ‘the class of the field’ every time I saw your name on the ballot. I am proud of those votes and so very proud of you today as the Senator from Massachusetts.
I saw the speeches that you gave at Faneuil Hall last year and I saw the passion with which you talked about the need to end this war in Iraq. I heard those eloquent words about how this war is immoral and it must end and we have to bring ‘our heroes’ home. I agree.
I think the effort to run for President and the effort to do everything that must be done to end this unjust and immoral war are not compatible at some level. I think the effort itself would have split your time, attention and effort. Based on what I saw at those speeches, I think your heart is in ending this war. If that means suspending any Presidential effort, then, ending the war is the the greater good.
I think this is about the noblest service that can be rendered to this nation at this time. It would be awful to see this effort split and your attention divided. Not now. Not when the nation needs powerful voices to set it back on the right path. So, I applaud your courage in making this decision. I will be there to support you in whatever you need to end this war.
I have never been prouder of my votes for you in 1984, 1990, 1996 and in 2002 than I was today. This type of hard decision and voice of conscience is what I saw all those years ago when I voted for you for the Senate. It will be good to see all of your efforts, the incredible heart, gut and mind all engaged in this most worthy cause.
So, I’ll be in touch. Looks like I’ll be doing a signature drive next year to return a great Senator to office. It will be an honor to do so, sir, an honor.
Senator, thank you for all you have done and continue to do. I am very disappointed that you will not be on the presidential ballot in 2008, but I understand your decision. I greatly value your efforts in the Senate and hope that other Senators will work with you to effect the changes this country so badly needs.
On Iraq, I support your efforts to end this war. I think my Congressman (thanks in no small part to your help) Joe Sestak has given the best argument I’ve heard for opposing escalation and beginning to bring troops home. He said something along the lines of: “The Bush administration has had FOUR YEARS to get it right in Iraq, but they have gotten it wrong at nearly every step.” There is no reason to think that they will suddenly become more competent and figure out how to get it right. It is time to stop sacrificing our troops to the Bush administration’s incompetence.
Senator, I am sure you have said it before yourself, but I hope you will emphasize it more. THEY HAVE HAD FOUR YEARS. It doesn’t matter if there is some military strategy that might be applied that would yield a better result than withdrawal. There may be such a strategy, in theory - but the Bush administration is not capable of implementing it. We know this, because they have had FOUR YEARS and have not gotten the simplest, most common sense things done - like giving our troops enough language and customs training; like teaching officers to lead their units in a way that wins hearts and minds; like eschewing mistreatment of prisoners or even the populace! In FOUR YEARS they could not get these things right - why would we allow them to put even more troops into that failed system? I hope you will emphasize these points - I think it is an argument that resonates with people. Personally, I was on the fence myself when you started talking about setting a deadline - I wasn’t sure if it was the best thing to do. But then I reflected on the Bush administration’s consistent record of incompetence, and realized that even if withdrawal causes a bad outcome, staying under such misguided leadership would create an even worse outcome.
You are right - set a deadline. In my opinion, the deadline to begin implementing a withdrawal strategy - for the reasons I’ve given above - should be TOMORROW. But obviously, you have to work with the Congress you have, and it probably is best in the long term to work out the redeployment strategy in discussions with the Iraqi government and regional stakeholders. I am afraid it will be a much more distant deadline than I would like, but I know you will improve the situation by your efforts, and I salute you for your leadership on this issue.
Senator, I am very proud of you today, and I wish the best to you and your family.
Senator Kerry,
Volunteering on your Presidential campaign was one of the greatest experiences of my life. It was an honor and privilege to see you and Teresa during your visits to New York City. One thing that stands out is that you always took time out to talk to us volunteers and treated us just as importantly as you did with “VIP’s” who may have been in the room.
This Country owes you a debt of gratitude for all that you did throughout the campaign in telling the truth about the mess in Iraq and what will happen if Bush doesn’t change course. History has proven you 100% correct in everything you said back then, and that continues today.
Rest assured we have your back and no doubt that many of us will take the time to come up to Boston and volunteer to ensure you get re-elected to the Senate next year. Of course, there is no doubt that you will win in a landslide!
Thank you for all that you do each and everyday for this Country. You are a true patriot and we are fortunate to have you fighting for us every day as a United States Senator.
Best regards,
Mary from Manhattan
Senator Kerry,
Grace to you and peace.
I am very glad to know that you will continue to represent the great Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the Senate. You are a good military strategist, a good diplomat, and a good practical politician. Those are skills that will be needed in helping us get through this difficult period in our country’s history.
As a Republican, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity you have given me to remain a part of this online community and work for political change. I trust you, even when I disagree with you. That means a lot.
One of the most important things that you teach is the concept of the Loyal Opposition and how vital it is to the proper functioning of a constitutional democracy. The Loyal Opposition today is much broader than the Democratic Party. It includes all of us who reject the authoritarian, might-makes-right political philosophy that the Bush administration has embraced. Thanks for all that you have done and will do to provide us with guidance and a rallying point.
Civitas
Dear Senator Kerry,
I will admit to being heartbroken today by your announcement; more so than any day since November 3, 2004. I truly feel you are head and shoulders above any other potential President, and feel deeply that we need you to govern as President to get us out of this mess that our country is in.
Nevertheless, I respect your decision, and thank you for everything you have done for our country and the world, and everything that you will continue to do. You are the ultimate Patriot!
Casting a vote for you in 2004 was the proudest vote I have ever cast; along with the vote for George McGovern in 1972. My son also had the opportunity to cast his first vote in 2004, and he and I are very proud he was able to cast it for you.
Again, thank you for everything. I look forward to supporting you in your future endeavors and I will always have your back. God Bless!
Senator Kerry, this post is a bit off topic, but only a bit. Iraq is important but as you mentioned, there are many other important issues for Congress to deal with as well.
I saw that yesterday Senator Dorgan introduced a bill, S.367, to prohibit the import, export, and sale of goods made with sweatshop labor. I’m not expert enough to know if this is a great bill, or whether it will be effective as written; but I feel that sweatshop labor is an important issue that needs to be dealt with. Sweatshop labor practices foster the kinds of injustice and misery that are one of the major root causes of political violence, and all so that some of us can pay a little less for things like sneakers. I hope you will consider supporting this bill.
End this war Senator.
Sir,
I am profoundly disapointed in your decision not to run for the Presidency in 2008. Your entrance into the race and your voice of experience would have added so much to the debate and direction of this country. I hope the road you have decided to embark on today brings you the rewards and positive outcomes you and our country deserve.
I have not lost my faith in you and I respect you more than any politican I have ever known. You inspired me in 2004 to get involved and fight for what I believe in. And, I became a grassroots committee person because of you. I was so hoping to support you in the primaries, that it is disapointing that it has come to this. I now doubt my committment to our party. A party that has chosen to not acknowledge and commend you for the exceptional Senator you are.
I do not however, doubt my committment to you or the cause of setting a deadline and bringing our troops home. For this cause you have my attention, my time and anyting else you ask for. I intend to be a thorn in the side of those in our party that pander and side-step this issue.
God Bless you Senator Kerry, it is a sad day for our country that we won’t be calling you President Kerry any time soon.
Senator Kerry,
You are the best living American in a leadership position today. It’s a mouth full but it’s true. I gotta tell you I’m really sad about this - but I don’t have to tell you; I saw your speech on the senate floor this afternoon.
I’ll still be a supporter of yours, even all the way out here in the West.
Peace be with you.
Thank you John for all you have done for this country.
I think you made the right decision, all factors considered.
So glad we got back the Dem majority in the Legislative branch and now we have to stop this damn war! Thanks for all your years of service to this country and the world, making it a better place. We must work for a free press, fair elections, separation of church and state, disarming the neocons, peace and justice - some of our Democratic values. (not Democrat values, as Bush shortened it)
I have read every comment, and realize that my words can not add much to this discussion.
What I can add is my pledge to support a patriotic American hero. Senator Kerry, I am with you 1000 percent. I will always look for your guidance when this country is faced with challenges. I will always listen for your clear and logical approach to our nation’s problems. I will always read your suggestions as to how America may better itself.
I will always be proud to raise my voice in support of you.
Your family must be so proud of you. And that includes the “family” that has grown together over these last several years. You have made us proud when there was a concerted effort to make us marginal. Thank-you for enabling us to reclaim our country.
Even though you will not be our next President, you will be our leader. God Bless You.
It’s sad to hear you’re not running in the presidential election in 2008 but I will still support you Senator Kerry on what endeavor you may take…
Dear Senator,
You have my thanks for your service and my support in 2008.
Keep fighting - this war needs to end soon.
Sincerely,
To my brother Vietnam vet, John Kerry,
Doubtless you won’t ever read this, but I feel compelled to write an expression of total support for your decision not to run for President in ‘08. I say this despite my disappointment that I won’t be able to vote for you in the California primary again.
I am not going to start blowing smoke up your way with fulsome praise, but I believe you are at least as well qualified as any of the Democratic Presidential candidates and certainly better qualified than any of the Republicans. Nevertheless, I couldn’t bear the thought of watching you again endure all those egregiously malevolent smears which, inevitably, would be disinterred by the forces of darkness, particularly those who take a pernicious pleasure in throwing mud on your war record.
In contrast to the most lame duck US President in our lifetime, there are still millions of Americans who have confidence in your judgment, who look forward to joining you in fighting to undo as much of President Bush’s disastrous foreign policy and tragic domestic degradation as possible, who know you’ll continue to speak truth to power no matter which party’s candidate is elected in 2008.
It goes without saying that in time you’ll be recognized as the best US President we never had. But for today, I just wanted you to know, brother vet to brother vet, that you are A-Okay in my book.
With thanks,
Senator Kerry, I cannot add much to what has already been said, and better, by others. I can just try to express the sadness and admiration prompted by your decsion. Admiration for your fortitude and courage, sadness that you will not be in the position where you can do the most good. But foremost thank you for being just the way you are.
I’m sorry for the U.S. that you’re not running in ‘08. Thanks for your good work, and hopefully we’ll hear you speak in D.C. this Saturday.
There’s not much to add to this thread--but I just wanted to add my voice to ProSense’s and Fe’s. What it means to be a Kerry supporter is that you can never give up. Never stop working. Never stop hoping. Never give in to despair.
I experienced the ‘04 election in north Florida, and it was one of the darkest days of my life. But I couldn’t give up. I wanted to live up to your example, and, anyway, how could I walk away when you were still there?
All I want to say, Senator Kerry, is that I remember the promise you made. To the American people, you said “I’ve heard your stories, I know your struggles, I know your hopes. They’re part of me now, and I will never forget you and I will never stop fighting for you.”
I believe you. And I will hold you to it. You are my leader, and I won’t walk away from you. If you want to get rid of us, Senator, (grin) you’ll have to do the leaving yourself.
Somehow, I think we’re in for the long haul.
I respect and support your decision. I really believe that you are proof that being CONSIDERED electable as president and being worthy of the job,
as two separate things.
But if Barry Goldwater proved anything, you don’t have to be elected POTUS, to make an impact.
Not much left to say but, good on ya Senator.
Beruk Ambatchew.
Okay, all better today, kleenex put away.
Go, Johnny, Go and {{{Teresa}}}
We’re all heroes on this bus. @;-) and we’re going to bring the heroes in Iraq HOME.
I am sorry that you are not running again for the Democratic Nomination for President. However, if this is what we are going to get, one tough Democratic Senator really standing up and fighting this war, then the trade off was well worth it. Give ‘em hell Senator, they sure deserve it and our troops deserve to have someone like you fighting for them
Mr. Bush’s proposals on health care are a sham, trying to make it look like he’s doing something for working Americans. He doesn’t give a damn about us, it’s all just so much more phoney balony!!The tax credit for the poor, at best might help 4.5 million Americans, which still leaves over 40 million with no medical insurance. The overhead on private health insurance policies, especially if there is an HMO involved can run over 59% of premium. Bush is not going to propose anything,unless it enriches the insurance companies not the people. And the criminal fraud which we dealt with in our book, will remain. The sad truth is that in the working poor and the poor, many of whom are ederly, they can not afford the premiums even with a tax credit. If the tax credit is $15,000 for a family and that family is in a 10% effective tax bracket, the tas credit saves them $1500 per year and private health insurance will cost them at least $5oo per month, $6000 per yr.. And if they’re on a"0" tax bracket as many of the poor are, after chld credits, it does not hepl them at all Zero!!..I could go on and on about the stupidity and dishonestly of Bush’s health care proposals, but I think you get the point . If any of the readers would like more information on our book, click on my name.Thanks again Senator for what you are going to do for the American People.
Um, John, er, I mean, Mr. Kerry, sir—not to be disloyal or anything, but I’m secretly kinda glad you decided not to run for president again. You can really kick ass in the Senate now instead. And Goddess knows that we really do need people who can kick ass in the Senate now.
So go out there and give ‘em hell, Johnny. We’ll leave the light in the old North Church steeple on for ya.
I am literally heartbroken, because I not only know that Kerry would make an exemplary president, but because I can’t help but feel that he was pressured to not run.
John Kerry’s platform in ‘04 was spot on.. it addressed all the problems, he was the only candidate who had the understanding about how so many of the issues are interconnected. He was attacked not only by the right wing, but by some on the left who have no comprehension of or caring for the suffering and problems faced by the working poor or the middle classes who are struggling.
If there isn’t a draft Kerry campaign, I will support Barack Obama, I can in no way support Hillary Clinton, because to me, she is more interested in power than in serving the American people and protecting our democracy. She’s not Bush, but she’s still beholden to some of the same corporate interests.
Posted something for you on DU and dkos
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/1/24/18288/4183
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=389&topic_id=31179&mesg_id=31179
Thank you for everything,
you’re still the best.
Best wishes to you and your family
Senator Kerry,
While I am truly heartbroken, I must respect your decision. Thank you for inspiring me and even my 7-year old son. Though the pettiness of politics came at you from every angle, you remained honorable. What a better America it would be under your leadership…
Thank you for your commitment to resolving this nightmare in Iraq & know that you have many who respect & appreciate you.
Again, thanks for the aspiration. Thanks for giving us a glimpse of what American can, should & hopefully will be. Thank you for working for The People. You are needed.
Senator Kerry,
First and foremost, as a proud citizen of Massachusetts, I’d like to thank you for your service as a distinguished member of the United States Senate. While I am truly disappointed that you will not be seeking the presidency in 2008, I look forward to watching you keep up the good fight in Washington, working to end the war in Iraq, and assisting in bringing our brave men and women home.
Thank you for all you’ve done for Massachusetts and the United States,
Brett
Boston, Massachusetts
Senator Kerry… John,
I feel I must say thank you for your wise decision, in regards to another presidential campaign. I’ll admit to have been disappointed in the results of the ‘04 election and your campaign at that time. Regardless of all that, I think you would have made a great president, if things had turned out differently, and after the primaries, I was behind you 100%.
Since then, I’ve grown much more fond of you and your composure in the Senate. You seem to have found that young officer you used to be, the one who threw his medal’s from Vietnam over the wall in a principled stance. It’s made me very proud to have you in the Senate, leading the way.
In light of all that, I’m even more proud of the decision you made not to run this time around. Not because I don’t think you’d be an even better candidate this time, I’ve no doubt you would and then some. It is more the feeling that you have the makings of a legendary presence in the Senate, and can do much greater things, accomplish much greater things there.
When Ted Kennedy leaves his seat in the Senate, I expect that you’ll carry the strength of his long service to the state of MA, and the people of our country just as, if not more powerfully.
Thank you for having the wisdom to make this decision, and carry on the great work you’ve been doing over the past several years.
Consistently, I’ve been accosted by friends and even relative strangers, to one day run for office. While I’m reluctant, I’m increasingly being convinced to do just that in the coming years. I’ve no doubt that at that time, I’ll look to you and your statesmanship as example for my own candidacy and political career.
Be well, and keep up the fight!
James Murray
Senator Kerry,
To me and many other people, you’ll always be President Kerry, the leader who inspired us when almost all hope was lost, who gave us back our pride in being Americans, and who made us believe that words like honor and duty and citizenship still have meaning.
Most of all, I’m grateful that you’ve never turned your back on us—no matter how many times you’ve been hit with attacks that would have made a lesser man give up on public life or on the very idea of trying to change things. You’ve never stopped believing in America, and that means more to me than I can possibly express in words.
I have to admit that I’m heartbroken by this decision, but the one thing that gives me comfort is knowing that even though you’re not running for the presidency in ‘08, you’re going to continue to lead the fight for change in another way. This country needs your leadership, and wherever you choose to carry on the fight, we’ve still got your back.
Thank you Senator Kerry for all that you have given our country. Your speech on the Senate Floor was deeply moving, informative, thoughtful, inspiring, purposeful, comprehensive and passionate. I dearly regret that our society tolerates such an impatient “soundbite” media. You deserve, as many good politicians, much better. You have so much to offer. And, our nation (the world) needs the detailed discussion that you can provide.
Call me a hold out, yet I believe that you probably won the last election and that we will never know given the voting machines used in Ohio. How different this world would be had you been in office… How much history will regret with American and Iraqi blood that you were not our President… It pains me to think of where we might be as a nation. Where other nations might be under your moral guidance and diplomatic intellectual care.
Again, Senator Kerry Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have my unending gratitude for your service, your integrity, your heart, your intelligence, your time and energy devoted to this nation and our international community. May God Bless you, Theresa, and your family as you continue the good fight.
PS. May I ask anyone if they know the name of the book that you referenced in your speech? I just finished the Bruce Feiler books/Jimmy Carter’s and I am seeking additional sources of information.
The Schantz Family
John,
You will always be my hero. I feel honored that I was able to cast my first vote for you; I was really looking forward to doing it again. I’m deeply saddened by your decision not to run. However, you have to do what is best for you and your family.
I’m sorry for everything they did to you. That includes Republicans, the MSM, and even your fellow Democrats. The same Democrats that bashed you for not answering the swifties strong enough were the same people bashing you for responding to the botched joke “controversy.” I’ve never seen such a decent man destroyed by lies.
You’re a great man. I will always have your back. Thank you for everything, John.
two days out. . I’m still grieving. I haven’t been able to sleep for two days.
I grieve for my country, as there is now no presidential candidate with the Right Stuff on the horizon.
There is no one out there, Democrat or Republican, who is even close to your caliber in terms of the presidency. Our country is in trouble on all fronts, at home and abroad. You’re the only one with the depth, integrity, experience, and moral courage to get us out of the mess we’re in.
I have never been more worried about my country than I am now.
Thank God you are still in the Senate, with more fire than ever. I thank you for your patriotism and your commitment , and for what you are doing now, especially to stop this war.
But in a just world, and in an America that remembered what it is about, you would be president.
What do you propose we do, Senator? I hear a lot of “the President is heading in the wrong direction” and “we don’t support his plan of action” but I’m waiting to hear what YOU would do. I mean specifics, not “begin the process of finding an alternative course of action”. This comment will most likely not make it to the boards...got to love censorship!
The people didn’t elect you to complain, they elected you to get things done.
Thank you for your time.
Diana,
The name of the book that Kerry talked about in his speech is “The Shia Revival” by Vali Nasr
I’m planning on reading it, too.
Dear Senator Kerry,
Allow me to share the heartfelt admiration and profound sense of disappointment expressed by those who have preceded me in this blog. I, too, respect and fully understand your decision. In fact, the day before your announcement, I ran into your sister Peggy (as I have many times), and expressed my hope that you would run again. She took the opposite view, but quite properly did not inform me of your plans. In the mere minute we had for a talk, she displayed a sister’s love by saying, “He is such a good and decent man, and it’s a zoo out there!” She obviously does not want you to be hurt again.
Last year, I had the honour of shaking your hand at the UN as you were on your way to a closed meeting on Sustainable Development. More significantly for me, I had met you in December 2003 at a fundraiser in Bronxville, NY (at a private home). This was when the “experts” said that you had little chance of winning the nomination! I was the only one with a copy of “A Call to Service”, which you were gracious enough to sign. It shares a special place on my bookshelf with Douglas Brinkley’s “Tour of Duty.”
This New York Democrat not only intends to remain part of your online community, but also to support your Senate campaign next year. Thank you for your noble service to this country, on the battlefields of war and politics. God Bless you, your lovely, dynamic wife Teresa, and your family (including Peggy).
Look forward to your book on the environment. Please keep us all posted on your book-signing schedule!
Sincerely,
Thomas Chacko.
Thomas, if you return here, the Senator and Mrs. Kerry will be in NY on March 12 at the 92nd St Y, in Manhattan, as part of the book tour.
Marjorie,
Thanks so much for the information. Much appreciated, I’m sure, by the whole Kerry community! Here’s hoping for long lines and standing-room-only crowds.
May the book be a best-seller, and may Al Gore win an Oscar for “Best Documentary.”
Thomas Chacko.
Senator Kerry,
When I heard you speak in ‘04 at the Iowa primaries, I “listened with my heart,” and KNEW in a moment you WERE the President and Leader (with such Integrity) this country much needed.
Last week, as I heard you speak from the Senate floor about your choice NOT to run in ‘08, again I “listened with my heart,” and heard beneath the ‘crack’ in your voice, a Prez ‘calling’ yet SO deep, your words didn’t entirely ‘sync’ what my heart “heard.”
Hopefully in time though I’ll maturely “accept” your decision to stay in the Senate, where indeed there is MUCH to do.
Though “listening with my heart” now to all the Presidential “wanna-be’s,” my heart hears nothing, not a sound...just silence. Nothing at all to stir my ‘support.’
Though for you, I wish always the best. As I can still cheer you on Senatorially on CSPAN…
As now I keep “listening with my heart” for that ONE viable Candidate. (Though honestly, I’ll probably just ‘sit this one out.’)
Keep fightin’ the good fight, Senator! Your devotion to this Country is still MUCH appreciated.
Sincerely,
Alexandra
As a Canadian this is possibly none of my business. But then there’s issues from softwood lumber to the treatment of Maher Arar that demonstrate over and over again the unusually large stake that Canadians have in the outcome of American elections.
I am sorry and a bit surprised to hear of Senator Kerry’s decision not to run for President in 2008. I can undertand the power of the “infotainment” industry to turn a flubbed line into a perceived error, especially when that industry is teamed up with clever partisan opponents who are capable of masquerading as just plain citizens, so shocked at the gaffe!
But you have to believe that in the end people will be smarter than that. And there’s still plenty of time for a field of candidates whose chances and capabilities have been artificially fluffed up by that same infotainment industry to get pumped right back down again as the process rolls on.
A world of climate change, depleting resources, colonial wars and religious conflicts needs statespersons. There is not an unlimited supply of such people. One such is John Kerry. Here’s hoping.
Dear Rod Smelser,
So good to know that our Canadian neighbors know what end is up. You said it all. Thanks so much for your clear good sense.
The way I figure it, one way or another, Sen. Kerry is going to show all of them— the dozing citizens, the TV gasbags, the carping, sniping, self-serving politicians (don’t get me started on my fellow Democrats, not to mention the Republicans)—what leadership and patriotism are really about. As long as I see fire in Sen. Kerry’s eyes, I can muster up some hope for our country.
The next 1 1/2-2 years are going to be a wild political-roller-coaster ride in the US. In my despondency over Sen. Kerry’s announcement , I’ve been focused on the bad parts of the ride (the damage done by the current administration;the problem of that “limited supply” of statesmen out there, just when our need is more urgent than it’s ever been; and the even worse problem of the number of Americans who seem to have forgotten what statesmanship and leadership even looks like). Frankly, this first part of the ride has made me pretty nauseous; mostly I’ve wanted all of it—especially the pathetic, grotesquely premature circus of the presidential-race, the carping, the speculating, the sniping—to just go away. But you reminded me that there may be some good surprises later on in this ride, too. Here’s hoping.
Thanks again for visiting us here. A pleasure to meet you! Keep your fingers crossed for us.
You’re such a great person. Whatever it is that you think would benefit to the general public, we’ll support you all the way.