July 20, 2006

The Honorable Alexis Herman and Mr. James Roosevelt, Jr., Co-Chairs
Rules and Bylaws Committee
Office of Party Affairs, Democratic National Committee
430 South Capitol Street, SE
Washington, DC 20003

Dear Secretary Herman and Mr. Roosevelt:

South Carolina's 21 Black mayors are an integral part of the Democratic Party, as are the more than 300 other African American elected municipal officials in the state.  Because we are the elected officials closest to the people, we are well suited to take the Party's message to. voters.

That ability made a difference in 2004.  Our endorsements and hard work played a big part in the outcome of the SC Democratic Presidential Primary.  Many, if not most, of us were able to meet and talk with the candidates, and we believe the things we discussed with them influenced their thinking on issues that affect our municipalities and our constituents.

We urge you to select South Carolina to hold an early primary in 2008.  Having the presidential candidates spend time in a small, rural Southern state, listening to mayors and other local officials, will make the Democratic nominee stronger and better able to face the voters in the rest of the country during the general election campaign.

Thank you for the work you are doing to make our Party's nominating process better.

Sincerely,

Christopher Campbell, Sr., President
South Carolina Conference of Black Mayors