John Edwards for President-Jean Smart

I strongly support Senator John Edwards

By Jean Smart

Now there's no reason you should listen to my opinion over anyone else's, but I wanted to share some of my thoughts with you.

From the first time I saw John Edwards speak in 2003, I was overwhelmed with his directness, warmth and intelligence. He remarks very proudly on his humble beginnings and the work ethic that brought him to where he is now. In a small way I identify with that because my father and mother, both children of the depression, raised us with self respect, and a talent to "make do" while also feeling that anything was possible.

If you are as frightened as I am of even the possibility of another Republican administration you should vote for John Edwards. I want to return to the America that I remember; the America that was looked up to and respected by the entire world. We were like the symbol of decency and opportunity, strength with restraint, fairness, education, diplomacy and just plain doing the right thing.

Senator John Edwards is going to go to Washington D.C. and take away the power from the lobbyists. The influence they have held over most facets of our lives is probably deeper and more insidious than we could ever imagine or discover. John Edwards is the only Democratic candidate that will wage a war on the lobbyists and has the history to prove he can do it.

After years of taking on powerful corporations in courtrooms and winning, he knows the importance of making sure our capital is not for sale. He is the only Democratic candidate with a specific plan to end the war - he promises to bring 40-50,000 of our combat troops home immediately and have all combat troops out in nine to ten months. John Edwards also was the first Democratic candidate to propose universal healthcare.

If you are tired of business as usual in Washington look to Senator Edwards. If you are sickened that in America millions of kids don't have enough to eat and consequently can't learn in school, then look to John Edwards. If you are worried about the environment and are sick of hearing that global warming doesn't exist, look to John Edwards whose campaign has set the pace on addressing greenhouse gas emissions. The race against time to save our planet is on and it is a war you will be proud to wage.

I could write volumes on Elizabeth Edwards as well, but suffice it to say that she is one of, if not the most amazing woman I have ever met. She and her husband are such a powerful team that it is both humbling and inspiring to watch them together. The White House will not have known a first lady of her gentle strength and intelligence in decades, if ever.

Lastly, in poll after poll and survey after survey when it comes down to the question of who can beat any potential Republican nominee, John Edwards wins. And we desperately need a Democratic who can win.

My name is Jean Smart and I approve this message!