Help Send Tom to Philadelphia

Help send Tom Prezelski to the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, July 25-28.

As some of you have heard, I was elected as a delegate pledged to Senator Sanders at a meeting in Tucson on Saturday, April 16. This was an unexpected honor, as I did not expect to win. 

I would like to think that my success here was due to my work as a longtime Democratic Party activist and my progressive record as a member of the Arizona Legislature. I am grateful for the trust that has been placed in me.

This convention presents us with an unusual oportunity to advance a progressive agenda for our party.  I am one of those folks who has long been frustrated by the timid incrementalism and hippie-punching of a snobbish party leadership which measures success not in electoral or policy victories, but in the effectiveness of their fundraising, and this is our chance to challenge them. We have to work to make sure that this party actually stands for something and is not simply the one that says "we are not crazy like those other guys."

In the days since I was elected, I have spoken with other Sanders delegates and it is clear that they do not intend to take a passive role at the convention. I am eager to be part of this.

Of course, the reason I am writing this is because the trip to Philadelphia is not cheap, and I would appreciate some help. No official estimate of the costs has been shared with me yet, although one party official told me "at least $1000," which sounds low. Airfare alone ranges from $400-$700, and lodging, food and incidental expenses are expected to be much higher. I do not intend to treat this like a vacation, so buying souveniers is not a priority.

I would very much appreciate your support both for me and the causes that Senator Sanders stands for.