For Immediate Release
MARCH 31, 2007

Contact:
Christy Setzer
Hari Sevugan
 

Washington - Posting strong numbers for the first fundraising quarter of 2007, presidential candidate Chris Dodd continued his aggressive push towards the Democratic nomination Monday.  His campaign cited their strong organization in key primary states as well as Dodd's ability to connect with voters as key reasons for their satisfying first quarter.

"Our campaign is on path, both financially and organizationally, to give Chris Dodd the resources he'll need to get his message of proven leadership and results delivered out to the American people," said Dodd Campaign Manager Sheryl Cohen.  "Chris Dodd's unique combination of proven leadership, delivering results on behalf of American families and his personality are connecting with voters nationwide.  That's why he's in such a strong position today, and will continue to prove a formidable candidate as we move forward."

Dodd posted total receipts of $9 million for the first quarter ending March 31st, including over $4 million raised since the beginning of the year and $5 million transferred from his Senate account. Dodd also reported $7.5 million cash on hand.

In addition to posting a strong financial quarter, Dodd has built deep and experienced organizations in key primary and caucus states in a matter of months since his announcement.

"Our campaign has proven that we can go from zero to 60 in just a couple short months. As pleased as we are with our levels of financial support, this campaign is just as strong on the ground.  And in key states across the country, the Dodd campaign is better organized and more experienced than our competitors," said spokeswoman Christy Setzer.

In Iowa, Dodd recently made some widely praised staff hires, including Democratic activist Marc Beltrame as state director, and Taylor West, former campaign press secretary to newly-elected Governor Chet Culver, as state press secretary.  In New Hampshire, Dodd announced the endorsement of former Congressman Norman D'Amours.  He will return to the state this week, meeting with college students to address their concerns of rising tuition costs.

Dodd also has impressed at Presidential forums where observers have noted that his depth of understanding of the issues and his experience have set him apart from the field.  In the coming months, Dodd will continue to highlight his unique qualifications with a series of major policy speeches and at the first Presidential debates. He will also distinguish himself from the rest of the field in the second quarter with a series of face-to-face conversations with voters, which he's calling his "Kitchen Table Campaign."

Dodd's efforts this quarter have won him praise from voters and pundits alike, putting him in a strong position going into the rest of the campaign.

WASHINGTON POST: Dodd gets "rave reviews," shows momentum
[Dodd's] speech last week to the International Association of Fire Fighters received rave reviews, and early word is that his first-quarter fundraising is surprisingly strong. That mini-momentum is seen in staff hires as well; Dodd has added three operatives who have deep campaign experience to his team in recent days.

MARK SHIELDS: Dodd leads candidates in Applause
"… if voters in 2008 decide what they really want in the White House is a leader who is smart, funny and likeable, and who believes that presidential elections are about the people, the country and the future — not about the candidates — then they owe it to themselves to get to know Mr. Dodd of Connecticut. '"

LOS ANGELES TIMES: Dodd's resume resonates with Democratic activists
"How does a little-known candidate from a small state 3,000 miles away crack the crowded California fundraising market?
"One supporter is television producer Tom Werner, who turned over his living room to the Dodd campaign Thursday night…
"'This is a very perilous time,' he said. 'Here is a man who has wisdom. There is real value in somebody who knows the complexities of the world. I'm tired of a president who is learning on the job.'"