Response to RalphDontRun.us website:

NAME / HOMETOWN	Support / Other / 2000	COMMENTS
Randy   Accetta Tucson   AZ	N / Y : 2 / Y	As much as I appreciate what Ralph Nader has done for consumer safety and for empowering individuals against systemic dangers, I think he is chiefly responsible for the election of George Bush. More than that, I blame him directly for Bush's victory. Nader knew that Perot's candidacy helped Clinton win in '92 and yet he ran anyway, forcing the Democrats to lose the popular vote and thus electoral votes in key states. Nader should not even consider running in 2003.
Richard   Adami Dennis   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Ralph: We need your expression of your positions (which, generally,I support) but in close elections you need to recognize the practical effect of "lost votes" cast for you.
Daniel   Adams Cedar Rapids   IA	N / Y : 7 / Y	Nader has to get off his ego trip and do what is right for America. At one time he was a great man helping raise awareness about problems effecting us all. His time is past, now he is just a divider, tipping the balance to the Republicans. He can't be allowed to do this for a second time.
Scott   Ainslie Brattleboro   VT	N / Y : none / N	Mr. Nader will hopefully hold his ego in check this time and take responsibility for helping to establish a viable third party that turned the White House over to reactionary fascists. He hasn't made much of his assertion that there's no difference between the parties lately, has he? If he chooses to run, he should be publicly flogged. Instead, he should parlay his influence on the issues into platform changes and enter, not try to destroy the political process. And he should publicly apologize for insisting on running in 2000 and for the debacle he has helped create by siphoning off progressive voters. He and the Greens should focus on local elections, as the Republicans did, and build from there up.His top down, all the glory is mine, attitude is harming the causes he might be championing. Shame on him. Scott Ainslie ainslie@musician.org
Scott   Alber Bloomington   IN	N / Y : 2 / Y	I am absolutely opposed to Mr. Nader running as a third party candidate. I am not opposed to Mr. Nader running as a Republican or Democrat in the primaries. What possibly would Mr. Nader's pupose be in running? Surely he knows he will not/can not win. And since the votes he would take would almost surely be those that would vote Democratic, the result of his running would be the siphoning off of votes for the Democrat nominee. Is this Mr. Nader's goal? If Mr. Nader runs then I must conclude that he has self-interest at heart and not the interest of his country.
Phyllis   Alden Durango   CO	N / Y : 2 / N	Howard Dean's record on the environment is a good one, and demonstrates that there is a mainstream party candidate who is sensitive to the environmental community. If for no other reason, however, the fact that the Republicans already speak with glee at the possibility of seeing a vote-splitting candidate - that should be enough to discourage any Green Party candidate.
Kate   Alexander New Orleans   LA	N / N : none / Y
Tim   Alexander   none	N / N : none / Y	I supported the Green Party in New Mexico for Santa Fe City Council, for State Lands Commissioner and in Green sponsored social justice campaigns to unionize the hotel industry. I support Forest Guardians and volunteer for the League of Conservation Voters. I have followed and supported Mr. Nader's crusades, but personally witnessed the election of a Republican radical in NM and watched as we lost the Presidency in part due to Mr. Nader's campaign. I am unable to see how a Green Party presidential candidate could do anything but help re-elect the most radical, anti-progressive and dangerous president in my life time. PLEASE DON'T RUN!!!!!
Joanne   Alonso Byars Gainesville   FL	N / Y : 2 / Y	I live in Florida and voted for Nader in 2000, and I've regretted it ever since.
Mark   Anderson   none	N / Y : 2 / N	THanks to Ralph Nader, George Bush is in the White House. Ralph and his ego need to go live in a shck, high in the Rockies and cmoke the rest of whatever it was that caused him to support Bush in 2000. NEVER AGAIN!
richard   anderson marshall   TX	N / : 2 / N
Kevin   Andresen Andover   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Voted for Nader in MA ("safe" state) in 2000 to send a message to the Democrats for running such an incompetent campaign. Will not do the same this year -- there are several Democrats who "get it", and the risk of 4 more years of Bush is too great. To quote Jimmy Carter: don't send a message, send a president!
Dennis   Andrusko Silver Spring   MD	N / Y : 2 / Y	Mr. Nader has always impressed me with his rational, cogent approach to policy, and with his indisputable moral and ethical integrity. However, in this political climate, even more than in 2000, it is time for progressives to take back the White House and congress - do you want four more years of Bush??! I think that if Mr. Nader where to run, he would not be a candidate able to defeat Bush and the devisive, misleading, and untruthful campaign that Bush's 200+ million dollar war chest will buy. I do think that Mr. Nader can better serve his country by engaging in the political process in other ways - head of EPA or Commerce for example (are you listening Dr Dean?). I deeply believe in what Mr. Nader has addressed in his writings and policy positions and would be thrilled to see him in a high-level, very visible public office but I think now is the time for a pragmatic approach to winninmg the White House back and not in making a political statement with my vote.
James   Anthony oakdale   NY	N / Y : 2 / N	Mr. Nadar, Your attempt to run in the 2000 campaign crippled our changes for winning. Please do not make the same mistake again. You can not win and can only hurt those who are more aligned with you politically!
Michael   Anthony Seattle   WA	N / Y : 2 / Y	A Nader run at this point would de unnecessarily divisive and could send George W. Bush back to the white house. Progressives should all come together to support the Democratic nominee and defeat George W. Bush. Any of the current field of candidates would be far better for America than the current president.
Phyllis   Asay Cherry Hill   NJ	N / Y : 2 / Y	It is absolutely essential that Bush is defeated in the 2004 election. Our country will not survive another four years of this president and this administration. Only a Democrat has a chance to defeat Bush; Nader has no chance at all of doing that, and any votes for him reduce the chances of the Democratic nominee.
Annemarie   Avanti Phoenix   AZ	N / Y : 2 / N	Ralph Nader spoiled the election for Democrats -Liberal, Moderate and Far Left - by taking votes away from the Democratic ticket - Not the Republican one. If he ran again - he would do the same thing in a contest with an incombant popular republican president. I assure you he would not win - all he would do is splinter the Democratic vote and perhaps add some fence sitters to his cause. I used to respect and admire him! Now I believe we - our country - the environment, children, medicare, education, labor, the common people are suffering because of his arrogance. If he runs again, again he will assist the Republicans in putting Bush in the White House. He won't win! He'll hardly place - but he'll assure the Republican victory.
Regina   Avraham Brooklyn   NY	N / N : none / N	The Nader candidacy, with its message that there was NO difference between the Democratic and Republican parties cost the nation dearly. The destruction to the economy, the environment, women's reproductive rights, gay rights, AIDS assistance, and our standing in the world is directly due to the spoiler effect of those who KNEW Ralph Nader could not win, but voted for him anway. Many Nader supporters voiced their vision that under Bush the nation would deteriorate so badly that people would turn to Nader in 2004 for salvation. Nonsense. The nation has deteroirated, no doubt....but we could have had Florida's 98,000+ votes and the presidency under Al Gore. The deaths of so many are on the heads of the Nader supporters. This cannot happen twice!
Nancy   Back Taylor Mill   KY	N / Y : 2 / Y	I love Ralph Nader and the ideals he stands for. But we need to get George Bush out of the white House. With another close election, a third party progressive candidate could siphon off the critical 1 or 2%. While I love idealism, what we need now is realism folks.
Laura   Bagley Hartwell   GA	N / Y : none / N	Now is a time so crucial to take back the white house from the Republicans, that there is no basis to support a candidate like Ralph Nader. His run in the presidential election will only put the country in a deeper hole, and will hand the office back to Bush.
Ken   Bajer   none	N / Y : 2 / Y
Tom   Baldwin Ludlow   MA	N / N : none / Y	I have lost all respect for Ralph Nader
Justin   Banks St. Louis Park   MN	N / Y : 2 / Y	While I'm a big supporter of 3rd party candidates, even the potential to siphon votes from the democratic nominee this year is enough to make me stay away. This country, it's citizens, our Constitution, and the world cannot afford for more years of Bush. Nothing that makes it harder to defeat Bush is worth it.
Peggy   Barbey Sebastopol   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	I voted for Nader in 2000 and am not sorry. Even though the result may have been different if Nader hadn't won Forida, I don't blame him for Gore's loss, but many do and Nader has lost a lot of support because of that. I support the green party every chance I get, But this year I'm an 'anyone but Bush' voter. Progressives must be unified and I think Dean has the best positions and expreience for that. Nader should go to Dean and ask how he could best support him.
Patrick   Barnette Sacramento   CA	N / Y : 7 / Y	It is most essential that Bush and his cronies be stopped in 2004. I am absolutely appalled that Nader has chosen to run again knowing the damage his candidacy caused in 2000. He needs to check his enormous ego and do what is right for the future of our country. Anyone but Bush!!!
t.a.   barnhart corvallis   OR	N / N : none / Y	nader was completely wrong in 2000, and he'd be even more wrong in 2004. there is a huge world of difference between dems & reps: education, health care, choice, civil rights, peace & justice, environment. let's change local politics, and get dems into the white house & congress. they aren't perfect, but bush/rove/delay have proven they are hugely superior.
Bruce   Barrett Milford   CT	N / : 2 / Y	I have never been involed in politics... unil now. I have always liked Ralph Nader, but I thought his run for president last year was insulting to his legacy. Calling Bush and Gore two peas in a pod was irresponsible and damaging. We have many greens in our Dean group who are as angry at Ralph as they are at the Democratic Party. The best thing Ralph can do is get behind a candidate, some issues, and use his leadership to reform and improve the Democratic Party. Playing the spoiler does none of us any good. To quote Ann Richards, "it takes a master builder to build a barn, but any jack ass can knock it down". I hope Ralph plays the roll of builder, not spoiler.
Andrew   Baskin Springfield   VA	N / Y : 7 / Y	Mr. Nader, I voted for you in the 2000 presidential election. However, I ask you please not to run again. We absolutely need to vote President Bush out of office in November, and any candidate who peels away votes that would go toward electing the Democrat nominee (unfortunately the only candidate with any chance of beating Bush) would be hurting that quest. We all wish you the best, but for the good of the country, we need to rally behind one candidate who seeks to defeat Bush. Thank you.
Richard   Batson Maywood Park   OR	N / Y : 2 / Y	I am a supporter of progressive third party and independent candidacies. I supported Perot in 1996 and Nader in 2000. PLEASE DO NOT RUN AGAIN IN 2004, RALPH NADER!!! I am supporting Howard Dean this go-around, and I DO NOT want a 2000 repeat!!!
Bill   Batton Douglas   WY	N / Y : 2 / Y	We must take the whitehouse back from bush. If we do not our country is on the direct road to distruction. The only way to do that is to be solidly behind ONE canidate not two or three. Need to get local on green and progressive issues, and get central on national issues, we share this great land with great people many of whom think differently than we do. So we must get along, not go separte.
Robin   Battson Columbia   SC	N / Y : 2 / Y
anna   baumgaertel Bala Cynwyd   PA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Before the 2000 election I was planning to join the Green Party if Gore won,since I felt it was absolutely imperative to defeat Bush on a national level,but promote the Greens on a local level.When Nader did not endorse his electoral votes to Gore,I felt this was a narcissitic betrayal of the realities.He may has well have been an agent of the Bush campaign.Nader has lost my respect and my potential membership in his party.Although I am very much for a multiparty system,the current national imperative and only realistic option is the defeat of Bush by a Democrat.If Nader decides to run,he is supporting the further dismantlement of the democratic system and sellout of the environment to big business interests in a replay of 2000.
DJ   Baxter Salt Lake City   UT	N / Y : 2 / Y
Larry   Beck Denton   TX	N / Y : 2 / Y	Dear Mr. Nader, I have admired you since the '60's. The values you stand for are admirable but your chance of winning the Presidency is worse than snowballs chance in hell and runs the risk of allowing George Bush another 4 disastorous years in the Oval Office. The 2% that voted for you in Florida killed the chance to prevent a Bush Presidency and now we are paying for it with high deficit spending, a Hawk's dream war in Iraq and a jobless rate not seen in 8 decades. Please remain the voice of conscience for millions of Americans in areas of the environment and consumer affairs, only do it outside the political arena.
Crash   Becker Bellows Falls   VT	N / Y : 2 / Y
Joe   Beckmann Somerville   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y	The Green Party has become a personal fiefdom, much as the Reform Party was to Perot. Grassroots politics begins with grassroots elections, not with the presidency. The parties surely need reform, but not at the cost of four more Bush years of right wing autocracy. Anybody who ignores that obvious cost is so sorely out of touch with those grassroots they deserve only disdain and exclusion.
Sharleen   Beckwith Sunnyvale   CA	N / Y : 2 / N
Marsha   Belcher Lake Forest   IL	N / Y : none / N	Any vote for Nader is a vote for BUSH. Is this his intention? I question his motives after he has learned what spoiler candidates can do. He was one, Perot was one. Nader should just settled for some appointed position if Dean wins. That's the real deal.
Sonny   Bellotte Baton Rouge   LA	N / Y : none / N	I believe there are already too many candidates in this race. With the serious matters facing this country, and what this country stands to lose if President Bush is re-elected, I think it's important for _all_ who want Bush out of office to get behind one man and work to make sure President Bush is defeated. The defeat of President Bush is Job One in 2004. All other bickering and in-fighting amongst those who oppose Bush has to take second place to the Number One Goal of sending Bush packing. Furthermore, I have heard that many believe, and I tend to agree that: A large part of the reason Gore lost in 2000 was because of Nader splitting the vote. Ralph Nader _had_ to have known in 2000 that he simply could not win in any case. For him to then run, and "steal" enough votes from the only other non-conservative candidate who _could_ have won, has left us in the mess we are in today. If Ralph Nader runs again in 2004, I believe he will again drain off votes that could go to the Number One Goal of Firing BU$H, and in so doing, Ralph Nader would then be single-handedly responsible for the consequences we will have to suffer for allowing George W. Bush another four years in the White House. President Bush has _already_ limited our civil liberties. What's next? Mr. Nader, I hope in the interests of what's _truly best_ for this country, that you will stay out of the race for President in 2004.
Patrick   Bennison Boston   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y
Donald   Benson Maple Plain   MN	N / Y : none / N	The Greens and other 3rd parties think that if there vote hurts the Dem.s that things will get so bad that Americans will rise up and throw them all out. Not true. All the hurtful legislation enacted by Bush will be here for a long time. It will take years and years to get back to wear we were belore Bush. In the meantime Millions of Americans have suffered needlessly. Greens and others must work within the system we have, no matter how good or bad. At best the Greens are working to change the lives of their grand or great gradchildrens lives and it appears to me this is a gamble not worth taking.
Meagan   Benson Maple Plain   MN	N / Y : 1 / N	Ralph Nader, please set aside your egotistical agenda and do what is right for the people. You can speak as freely as you like, but you are putting your mission, under the guise of freedom of speech, above what is better for the little people. You said on NPR that people are censuring you, how dare you use that tactic to avert your real cause to be somebody. If you really cared for the planet and the little guy you would cut the shit and not run. PLEASE!!!!!!!!! NO MORE OF YOUR EGOCENTRIC ATTENTION GETTING, DO WHATS RIGHT FOR OTHERS, NOT YOURSELF! ALL OF THE VOTES YOU GET ARE A VOTE FOR BUSH, REMEMBER THAT, IT IS A FACT!!!
CJ   Bernard Caribou   ME	N / Y : 2 / N	We can't let the Greens make the Democrats lose the White House again. We can't have a repeat of 2000. This is why we have GW Bush in office. HOWARD DEAN FOR PRESIDENT 2004
Grant   Berry Hughesville   PA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Mr. Nader: Please set your ego aside and do what's good for America! You haven't got a chance, and you know it. What WILL happen is that you will drain enough votes away to INSURE a Bush victory ~ a TREMENDOUS loss to the country! PLEASE DON'T RUN!
Michael   Berry Cambridge   MA	N / : none / Y	I am not anti Nader. I spent a month volunteering in his Washington office while in college. I think he has done great things. I also think we wouldn't now have Bush in the White House if he hadn't run last time.
John   Bilow san diego   CA	N / Y : none / Y	I'm a left wing-tip liberal, but voting for Nader or any other third party candidate could just mean that Bush-hole gets re-elected. I could see voting green for a city council or schoolboard election, and in a state where there was huge support for the green party, maybe I would support them for a state level job, but the greens don't have the power right now. I think the best way to change the democratic party is to do it from the inside.
Craig   Bingham E Middlebury   VT	N / Y : 2 / Y
MARIAN   BIRCH Port Angeles   WA	N / Y : 2 / Y	All progressives need to unite to stop Bush & Co. before they hammer the final nails into the coffin of the democratic process in this country. At this point a Nader candidacy is worse than frivolous; the only people who will benefit are Bush and his cronies.
Allida   Black Arlington   VA	N / N : none / Y	This is more about Nader's ego that public policy. He did irreparable damage in 2000 and should look closely into his conscience before being so selfish in 2004.
Steven   Blaisdell Austin   TX	N / Y : none / Y	Mr.Nader will do our country a great disservice if he pursues the presidency with any seriousness.He is a great American,and deserves tremendous praise for his accomplishments,but this is a turning point in American history;and the actions of all with power and influence will have a magnified effect.One of the certain tests of anyone who truly aspires to statesmanship is the ability to use the powers of timing and discretion in order to see through the ultimate success of one's goals;and as Mr.Nader can obviously see the big picture as well or better than just about anybody,he cannot claim ignorance under the rubric of 'free speech' (or any otherwise admirable stance) if and most certainly when his bid for the presidency assists the election of George Bush,and sets the implementation of his avowed positions back twenty years.Mr.Nader,you have my undying admiration for you past achievements,and I second the suggestion that a run for the Senate or House would serve your country magnificently. Respectfully yours,Steven Blaisdell
Lee   Blaser New York   NY	N / Y : 2 / N
Lori   Blodorn Westminster   CO	N / Y : 2 / Y
naomi   bloom new york   none	N / Y : 2 / N
Amanda   Boer Somerville   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y
Edra   Bogle Denton   TX	N / N : none / N	Ralph Nader put Bush in the White House. I will never forgive him for that. Now he is going on another ego trip. Is he being paid by the Republicans, or is he really this psychotic?
Jan   Boguslaw Newton, MA   MA	N / : none / Y	question #3 is a bit misleading. IN the coming election I would not vote for a third party candidate. In the future, depending on who it is, I would consider it. I think third party candidates should build party strength at the state level first, in house, senate elections, etc. ONLY then do I think there will be value in a third party candidate running nationally. At this point I think the best strategy is to stop the finger pointing and get Bush Out. I support Dean's efforts to look at the national state-wide elections to make the Congress one that will either Block future Bush initiaitves, and/or will support a Democratic president. We should be focusing on issues and strategy, not personalities and marginal differences! Second point. I don't think this survey should be ralphdontrun - the results are already biased when you do that. A real independent survey would be shouldralphrun -
Alex   Bolstad-Szele Middleton   WI	N / Y : 2 / Y	I have voted for Ralph Nader in the past and for other third party candidates. I feel, however, that the impact Nader had on the 2000 elections has forced the Democrats to come far enough back to the left that I am comfortable voting for them again. Plus, at this point, I would probably vote for Winnie-the-Pooh if he stood a chance of getting Bush the Usurper out of the Oval Office.
Paul   Bones Norman   OK	Y / Y : 9 / Y	I feel that attempting to break up the Green Party instead of actually attempting to appeal to us is a poor campaign strategy. Instead of trying to place the blame for the 2000 election on the 2.5 million people who voted for Nader, try looking at the Democratic Party (and Gore's campaign in particular) and ask these questions: "What did we do do alienate 2.5 million voters? What can we do to appeal to non-voters? And what stance should we take on key issues in order to provide an actual alternative to George Bush?" After you address the problems within the Democratic Party, then you can try to weed out competition.
Jane   Boraczek McDaniel   MD	N / Y : none / Y	Mr. Nader- PLEASE don't spoil the democratic bid for the white house again! Bush is wrecking this country for all the people & natural resources that you say that you care about and is in no way advancing any aspect of your agenda. Don't be a hypocrite. You know tht you can’t win so a vote for you is as good as a vote for Bush. This country can't survive 4 more years of his social apathy, lying & thievery.
Eric   Bornemann New York   NY	N / N : none / Y
Cecil   Bothwell Asheville   NC	N / Y : 2 / Y	If Nader blows this one he will expose himself as far more interested in self-promotion than in the good of the country. Whether or not he cost Gore the election, in 2000 he owed it to the country to publicly ask his supporters -- at the last minute -- in swing states to vote for Gore. He could have been the hero that saved us from the Florida debacle. If Nader believes in the principles he espouses he should support local Greens with all his energy and build his party base.
Paul R.   Bottis Sr. Worcester   MA	N / N : none / Y	It was unfair to blame Nader for Gore losing there were many other reasons just as viable, however this year the stakes are much higher in 2000 we did not know just how Bush would move so fast to destroy our constitutional rights, true he took advantage of 9/11 as a justfication for the means, but the 2004 election could determine if the plan laid out by the forerunners of the PNAC for a century of American Imperialism through premptive wars accepted by instilling unwarrented fear of terrorism.
M. Laurie   Bowler Coventry   CT	N / Y : none / Y	I switched to Green Party the day USA first attacked Iraq (disgust with Dems voting for atrocities). I had to switch back, tho, for Dem. Primary. I need to do all I can to get rid of the Bush-Machine. I am active in the Dean Campaign, and often suggest at meetings that Dean get on the Green Ticket, as well as the Dem. Ticket. He has many of the Green values. Please consider support for him and bring these values to light in his campaign. It will help all of the United States' population (oops-maybe not the oil giants & those hell-bent on destroying our earth), as well as this country's regaining respect in the world.
connie   boyajian enfield   CT	N / Y : 2 / Y	Our country needs a strong democrat who would serve the people. R.Nader is not that person.
Justin   Boyan Providence   RI	N / Y : 2 / Y	If we are to have any chance of defeating Bush in 2004, RALPH NADER MUST NOT RUN FOR PRESIDENT.
Lloyd   Brace Waldoboro   ME	N / Y : 2 / Y	Re: question 3 above: If the Dems had not produced a Howard Dean this year I would be more inclined to think favorably about a third party candidate, but not Nader. Nader is close to being too old and has ego issues.
Josh   Brackett Rockport   MA	N / : none / N	Nader's done enough damage already. He got 97,000 votes in Florida. He's directly reponsible for Bush being in the White House. I have always admired Nader and agree with him on most issues, but the idea that he can jump from no government experience to the Presidency is pure arrogance.
Dave   Bradlee Seattle   WA	N / Y : none / Y	The only way to win is to build a coalition of different progressive groups. We have to present a common front. Mr. Nader, please support Dennis Kucinich in the primaries as he most closely matches your positions, and then support the Democratic candidate, whoever that is.
David   Brannan MILWAUKEE   WI	N / Y : 2 / Y
Gretel   Branton Cookeville   none	N / N : none / Y	Please do not dilute the power that can be gathered by the democrats only, not a third party. We must save America from the stranglehold Republican radicals presently in power.
Ron   Brassfield Knoxville   TN	N / N : none / Y	Voted Ralph twice already, considered it an opportunity each time. Third time, for much the same reason -- conscience -- will vote Democratic instead.
Anita   Braun Bel Air   MD	N / Y : 2 / Y	Mr. Nader has, in the past, drawn attention to the need for environmental protections in these United States. I believe he can continue to do that most effectively in an Environmental Watchdog status, rather than as a candidate whose presence on the ballot will have the effect of helping Mr. Bush remain in office for four more years. If Mr. Nader truly loves his country, he will NOT run for office, but will, instead give his support to whomever the Democratic Party nominee may be for 2004. To do otherwise would be a slap in the face to every voter who REALLY cares about the environment. WAKE UP, Mr. Nader! Our grandkids deserve better than this from you. A Citizen concerned about our environment.
Cheryl   Brewster Trussville   AL	N / N : none / N	Until the Green party is not certain to split the non-republican vote, I will not vote Green, no matter who the candidate is.
Mari   Brick Westerlo   NY	N / Y : 2 / N
Peggy   Briedis Atlanta   GA	N / Y : 2 / Y
mark   briggs alameda   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	peace & vote for dr. dean.
Rob   Brinkman Gainesville   FL	N / Y : 9 / Y	An Open Letter to Ralph Nader Dear Mr. Nader: While I have much respect for the dedication and integrity you have demonstrated over the years and was pleased to be able to vote for you in 1996 and 2000, I reluctantly write to ask you not to run in 2004. At this point in time, it would be better if you elected not to run either as an independent or on the Green Party ticket. I firmly believe that the first priority for those who care about freedom and democracy is to defeat George W. Bush. There was a slogan during the 2000 campaign, “vote your dreams, not your fears.” I yearn to vote my dreams but refuse to risk four more years of grieving families whose lives have been shattered by the return of their sons and daughters in flag draped caskets and by the far greater number of soldiers wounded in combat. A little over three years ago I sat on the steps of the Springhill Baptist church, a local polling place, with several other Green Party members, and answered questions for a CNN TV reporter. The one which sticks in my mind is, “If you knew then what you now know a week after the election, would you have changed your vote?” Every one of us responded that our minds remained unchanged; none of us dreamed of 9-11 or a preemptive strike policy, the un-signing of international treaties, and many other ill-conceived policies of the Bush regime. However, that was then and this is now! I, along with many of your supporters, have changed my mind. Conducting an independent campaign merely for the purpose of raising issues and influencing the debate can no longer be justified. Dennis Kucinich, who advocates virtually the same policies, is allowed to participate in the debates while you would, again, be excluded. I have changed my voter registration to Democrat and intend to vote for Mr. Kucinich on March 9th. I urge you to endorse him and help raise money. Come November I will vote for whomever necessary to end the Bush regime. Finally, I ran for the Gainesville City Commission in 2003 and lost. Many people have told me that they could not contribute to my campaign or vote for me because I was a Green. There continues to be strong feelings in this county about the 2000 election, perhaps because you polled over 3,200+ votes and garnered the highest percentage of any of the 67 counties in Florida. Sincerely, Rob Brinkman, co-chair Alachua County Green Party
Sherrill   Brittain Burlington   VT	N / Y : 2 / Y
Lee   Brooks Friday Harbor   WA	N / N : none / Y	I wanted to vote for Nader in the last election, but Bush scared me then and scares me more now. My vote will go with the most likely candidate to unseat this threat.
Maggie   Brown Elizabeth   CO	N / Y : 2 / Y	Please tell Mr. Nader that the best way to make sure George Bush gets another four years in the White House is to become a candidate himself. While there are currently many candidates, I think we Democrats have a chance for coming together for a good cause—to defeat Bush. Please don't split our party and undermine this very important cause. Our country cannot improve with Bush having a second term. Yes, it DOES MATTER who is president.
Marina   Brown Ann Arbor   MI	N / Y : none / Y	I have seen many third party spoilers in the past 40 years and only one gave advantage to Democrats: first run by Ross Perot. If people cannot see the difference between a Democrat and a Republican they need to start reading more newspapers that are balanced, attending live forums, watch C-SPAN or get their heads examined!
m   bryant seattle   WA	N / Y : 2 / Y
Henry   Bukoff Schenectady   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	Ralph Nader crowned the worst enemy (Bush) this country ever faced, trying to prove his point. Yes, I'm bitter about it!
Lance   Bukoff N. Easton   MA	N / Y : none / Y	I recall Mr. Nader making the statement that he would support a Democrat if the Democrat showed the capacity to garner broad, grassroots support. If Dean has not done that, no one could possibly do so. PLEASE - You've seen three years of "Tweedle Dum" - you can't CONCEIVABLY think there is no difference between him and "Tweedle Dee". Also - I do not blame Greens or Nader for Bush winning. Gore and the Democrats made at least two dozen serious blunders in the campaign, any one of which probably made the difference. But for God's sakes - we need every possible advantage this time. Four years of Bush with no fear of reelection is an unsepakably horrific thought.
Jack   Burgess Chillicothe,   OH	N / Y : 2 / Y
robert   burns memphis   TN	N / Y : 2 / Y	I believe that George W. Bush has definitively proven that there is a difference between the politics and policies of a republican and a democrat. Although I strongly support a progressive agenda, and support those thoughts and actions financially as well, the way to change in the US is through the democratic party which has a chance at winning the election. I believe we start at the center and work left rather than far left and go no where.
Laurie   Burr Annapolis   MD	N / Y : none / Y	Mr. Nader -- Please do not run for President in 2004. You cannot win against George Bush, and America cannot risk another split Democratic vote and 4 more years of Bush.
Liz   Bush   CA	N / N : none / Y	Dear Mr. Nader, I am a Green. Well, technically not anymore. After what happened in 2000, and what's happened since, I have registered Democrat and I intend to support any candidate they put forth. We CANNOT endure 4 more years of the tyranny of George Bush and his cronies. Your potential candidacy, however noble, just and in accordance with my progressive beliefs, could seriously endanger our liberties. We CANNOT lose any support in the fight against George Bush. I admire you and what you stand for, but too much is at stake to make anything other than a pragmatic decision. Our lives depend on it.
Beverly   Byrum Louisville   KY	N / Y : 2 / Y	I believe that it was Mr. Nader's candidacy which helped Mr. Bush win by dividing Democratic votes. This country can't survive four more years of a Bush presidency. I urge Mr. Nader to work on the local level or with one of the Democratic candidates to help achieve his goals. I do support many of his goals, but he cannot win and will only be a spoiler for the Democrats.
Mauricio   Cabrera Washington   DC	N / Y : 2 / N
Judy   Cadoret Lafayette   LA	N / Y : 2 / N	I have great respect for Ralph Nader, but his entry into this race will simply take votes away from the Democratic nominee, which I am sure will benefit George W. Bush and probably assure his re-election. I am confident that Ralph Nader will not win the general election and will simply act as spoiler that may prevent a Democrat from getting elected.
Diane   Campbell Oakland   ME	N / Y : 2 / Y
gary   campbell jacksonville   FL	Y / N : none / Y	Kerry is just another RICH Republican who has been in DC for tweenty years and done NOTHING! Kerry is NO CHOICE at ALL!
Kelly   Campbell Modesto   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	I have been voting the Green ticket in my state and local elections since 2000 and voted for Nader in 2000. However, this election is too big for any slip up in removing Bush - I will swallow my pride and vote for any Democrat nominated. I have been organizing for Howard Dean so I hope to be voting for him in 2004.
Michael   Carberry Iowa City   IA	N / Y : 2 / N
Joshua   Carlson Seattle   WA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Dear Mr. Nader, I'm selfish, I feel that Mr.Bush is a threat to me, my world, and my nation. If you run there is a possibility that you could take votes from a Democratic candidate who so desparetly needs to win and take Bush out. Thank you Joshua Carlson 18yrs Old Seattle, Wash
Judith and Dan   Carluccio Seaside Park   NJ	N / Y : 2 / N
Chiara   Carmolli-Anderson Gainesville   FL	N / Y : 2 / Y	Though I have a great deal of respect for Mr. Nader and what he stands for, I do not feel he should run in the 2004 presidential election. There is far too much at stake and we can not afford another Florida. Now is not the time to try and prove a point and I think Mr. Nader would find that his supporters that were there in 2000 will not be in 2004.
Dana   Carpender   none	N / Y : 2 / Y	Ralph Nadar is a heckuva guy, and I admire his work intensely. However, that doesn't mean that he has the chops to be President. Run for Congress first, Ralph, or some other lesser office. Get some governmental experience before aiming at the White House, for cryin' out loud. Same can be said for the Green party in general: Work on local elections. Develop a pool of experienced candidates with some sort of local experience behind them before you aim at the White House. If you think this isn't big enough, remember that the right wing has taken a lot of the hold it has through stealth candidates in local elections, most particularly for school boards.
Victor   Carrion Hayward   CA	N / Y : 7 / N	It is important that Bush not be reelected and I feel that votes for Nader are votes for Bush, just like what happened in Florida. Nader is a good man, but he will never become president so what is the point of running, other than dividing the country even more than it is already divided.
Mark   Carroll   none	N / Y : 1 / Y	Ralph, Run if you want to. Run if the Democrats pick someone who is a faux progressive (Dean?), or downright conservative (Liberman). My party (the Democrats) need to stop blaming others for their own horrible campaigns.
Kimberley   Carter   CA	N / N : none / Y	There is just too much at stake.
Mike   Carvalho Chester Springs   PA	N / Y : 2 / Y	I understand that Mr. Nader is supporting Rep. Kucinich's candidacy in the Democratic party, but this isn't supposed to be some sort of relay race -- let a candidate run with the baton until he has to drop out, then pass the baton off to another candidate who runs a spoiler campaign from a third party as his support continues to diminish. 2004 is too important to mess around with. Mr. Nader said on a CNN interview today that Gov. Dean is a "work in progress" but that they agree on many issues central to the progressive agenda. Why not get all of us together behind a candidate who has a real chance of getting elected rather than further splintering our efforts with the possible disastrous result being another 4 years of a Bush administration? Ralph, don't run!
W James   Casper Plainview   NY	Y / N : none / Y	It's about who earns votes, not who runs... Unless you believe that voters are fools, candidates who don't deserve to make a difference don't make a difference. Nader earned the votes he got in 2000. Perhaps that has to do with his message, or Gore's message, or something in the air at that time, but those who wish to run for office should be encouraged to do so, not condemned for it.
Ken   Cassidy Globe   AZ	N / Y : 2 / Y	I voted Green Party in the 2000 election, and certainly support its ideals. However, I think the party is too progressive to win a presidency now. I would vote for ANY Green Party candidate, including Mr. Nader (whom I respect very highly) for any office, either local or national, except the presidency.
Jerry   Cayford Brunswick   MD	N / Y : 2 / Y	The question is what action will best move your (Nader's) agenda forward. In 2000, it was running. In 2004, I believe it is supporting Howard Dean. Let me explain. The main barrier is the entrenchment of the two parties in bad approaches to politics. What will change them? Best would be forcing a winning candidate on them (Dean) with a better approach. That's what the Democratic grassroots are trying to do. Failing that, a distant second best would be shaking them up with a third party campaign. But is Dean's approach any better? As you said on CNN, "I think there's a great need for a progressive candidate for the presidency. The two parties are very much dialing for the same commercial dollars." This is strikingly not true of Dean, whose money picture is completely different from all the other candidates. You also said, "One of the justifications for this campaign is to preserve and expand the right of third parties and independent candidates to challenge the two-party duopoly system." More important than the "right" is the practical ability to do so, and no third party will seriously be able to as long as we have winner-take-all, one-round voting. The best thing would be not a gesture asserting the right but an effective policy change: instant run-offs, which are now becoming feasible with new electronic voting technology. How could we get that policy passed? Easiest would be electing a sympathetic president. I don't know Dean's position on instant run-offs, but I do know that he is the only major candidate not beholden to the party machinery, and not particularly committed to the two-party system. Rather than another run for president, I recommend discussing with Dean the possibility of his backing instant run-offs (possibly with your forgoing a run as incentive to him). This could potentially benefit the Green Party and other third parties far, far more than running against Dean possibly could.
Joseph   Cerisano 111 Warren   none	N / Y : 1 / N
Lou   cerrone Sandwich   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y
Laura   Chalfin Delhi   NY	N / N : 2 / Y	I think THE most urgent priority in the 2004 presidential election is regime change in Washington. I would willingly compromise on some issues and THROW THE BUM OUT OF THE WHITE HOUSE, rather than remain ideologically pure and suffer through 4 more years (unless he blows us all up first) of George Dubya!
Walt   Chambers San Diego   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Nader for Senate! Green party for Senate ... NOT for President.
william   chambers columbus   IN	N / Y : 2 / N
Joe   Chizmas Nederland   CO	N / : 2 / Y	The goal of the 2004 election is one common cause: the removal of George W. Bush. A viable third party alternative will do nothing to diminish the power of the GOP or those that typically vote Republican. This next presidential election must have only two options, with one being "anyone but Bush". Nader's run can only harm the nation's (and the world's) chanced of removing our dictatorial tyrant.
Lonnie   Chu Liverpool   NY	N / Y : 2 / N	I have always admired Ralph Nader and the work he has done. I can't imagine what shape this country would be in if he weren't around. However, his ill-advised run for the presidency is the ONLY thing that really hurt Gore. We would not have gone to war, we would be in a much safer position with the rest of the world, we wouldn't have a band of lunatics at the helm, etc etc, if Nadar had not run. Please, Mr. Nadar, don't screw it up for us again. You already sullied your excellent name with the last candidacy. Don't bury your reputation completely with another.
ernesto   ciccarelli   none	N / Y : 9 / Y	I am a Green who sees the dire need to support the democratic candidate..Help us save America..Love and Peace,,,Chi
Christina   Citino Florence   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y
Chris   CLark Boulder   CO	N / Y : 8 / N	Given that it is not possible for him to win, Nadar should not run. His candidacy will affect the system and is likely to make it more difficult to accomplish the primary objective, ridding the US of the Bush administration.
Sylvan   Clebsch San Francisco   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	While I very much support the idea of a viable 3rd party, and indeed I voted for Mr. Nader in the 2000 election, I am very much opposed to Mr. Nader running in the 2004 election. The 2004 election is not about working for progressive changes in our political system as a whole; it is about fighting for the future of this country in a very real and immediate way.
Kate   Cleland-Sipfle Ashland   OR	N / N : none / N	Ralph, Derrick Jensen, an extrememly pessimistic activist for environment, peace, and other good causes, thinks there's no hope; civilization will fall. I don't agree with him that it has to come to that, much as we westerners must change the way we think and the way we use resources. If you run for president again, now that we need more than anything to depose George Bush and the neo-conservative cabal behind his presidency, you will be hastening the demise of the world we know with nothing better to replace it. We'll have more wars in the name of "democracy," more tax breaks for the corporate privileged, less finacial, health care, work and food security for our average citizens, and the privileged will NOT stop their out-of-control consumption and control of natural resources. If you love the idea of a better America, don't run. Wasn't once enough?
Barbara   Clemans San Francisco   CA	N / N : none / N	There was a man named Matt Gonzalez who ran under the "Green Party" banner----he is a Socialist not a "progressive" Democrat ---his beliefs are to overtax businesses (thereby driving them away) and small property owners in order to provide subsidies for the drug addicts, alcoholics and carpet baggers who flock to San Francisco to live off the dole----by a lot of hard work--Gavin Newsom a responsible Democrat won--as we left the victory party "green party" people were gathered to yell obscenities, insults and threats to those who supported Newsom---I am forever deaf to any "green party" candidate who runs on irresposible fantasies---so get elected elsewhere and let's see how effective you are in the Real Arena of the REal World.
Robert   Cloar Fort Smith   AR	N / N : none / N	Ralph Nader is one of our consumer citizen heroes of all time. But in in the 2000 campaign he repeatedly talked about the democrat president and vice-president taking Nader's group for granted by not even paying a courtesy visit to their conference a few blocks from the White House. Ralph's desire for the soap box spotlight has blinded him to the difference between the two major parties. Nader will be helping G. Bush to four more years of raping this country's working people and ecology.
Mark   Cohen Philadelphia   none	N / Y : 2 / N	I believe a Nader candidacy will only help re-elect Bush. It is impossible to know in advance what the contested states will be: polling is simply not that good. The Greens should concentrate on being an alternative in one party constituencies like San Francisco, where they can present a real choice.
Shelley   Cole Westchester   IL	N / Y : 2 / Y	I think its time for the Green Party to earn their stripes by developing a grassroots strategy. The party should grow from the grassroots level. Start at the state and local level first. You have to prove to me that you are more interested in furthering your agenda, rather than boosting the ego of one man.
Neill   Coleman New York   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	Beating Bush is vital. I voted for Nader in 2000 but would only vote for him this time if Lieberman is the Democratic nominee.
Rani   Colzani Gilbert   AZ	N / Y : 2 / N	I understand that Mr. Nader has a point to make, however, his point cost us the 2002 election. I agree that sometimes it is hard to see the difference between the Republicans and Democrats but no one can argue that we would be in the same mess that we are in today domestically as well as internationally were Al Gore president today. I would greatly appreciate it if Mr. Nader would stay out of the presidential race this time regardless of who the democratic nominee is.
Sam   Conant Colchester   VT	N / Y : 2 / Y	I supported Anderson when he announced as an Independent and supported Bill Bradley in the last Presidential campaign ... I believe strongly in many ideals espoused by the Greens in the U.S. and internationally. However, in the United States - this next campaign more than any other I can recall since Reagan's first and second campaign - I I believe it is absolutely essential that we U.S. voters ensure that George W. Bush return to Texas a defeated conservative, self-centered, Republican has been. Regarding Ralph Nader, himself, I am coming to the belief that he is in danger of losing political credibility and earning social credibility as the next Harold Stassen of U.S. politics.
Tom   Conboy WPB   FL	N / Y : 2 / Y	Please do not play into Rove's hands. Please do not run for president. I can not take another four years of Bush controlling this country. Please find a senate seat or a house seat and get into congress and hold them accountable. You have done great things. But do not tempt those like myself who are passionate about the environment to throw our vate away.
Dr. Jorge   Conesa Everett   WA	N / N : none / Y	We don't want a repeat of the last Fiasco. True, many liberal democrats identified with Nader's positions but this time around, these positions are aptly represented by our candidate of choice: DEAN. No need to divide us a again. There is too much at stake. Nader is a smart guy, I hope he relaizes this quandry. It is wonderful that our republic can give rise to these valid platform options, however, our republic itself is in great jeopardy if we don't elect Dean. JC
John   Conlee Anacortes   WA	N / Y : 2 / N	It is absolutely essential for our country and for the world that George Bush not be elected. We cannot afford to dilute the anti-Bush vote by as much as a single ballot.
Michael   Connolly Cambridge   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y	I voted for Nader in 2000 and do not regret my vote. The election was Gore's to lose and he lost it. Sort of. At this time, I believe Howard Dean has the best chance of deflecting the right wing. In the long run, I think progressives need to keep organizing inside and outside the Democratic party, but in the short run I think a Nader campaign would be unhelpful to the country and would probably end up marginalizing Nader. (I do not want to see Nader marginalized.) I should add that if Joe Lieberman became the Democratic nominee, I might consider voting for Nader again.
David   Cook Menomonie   WI	N / Y : 2 / N	Nader as candidate has no way to help defeat Bush for the Presidency. The idea that there is no significant difference between Bush and any of the Democratic candidates is ridiculous.
Wayne   Coste Tariffville   CT	N / Y : 4 / N	I believe that Howard Dean will be the Democratic Candidate and he carries many of Ralph Nader's views. I hope that Ralph Nader will endorse Howard Dean, or at least, defer to his candicy for the President of the United States. If Ralph Nader decides to run, I am sure that he will be assured funding by Republicans who want the progressive vote splintered.
Elene   Costuck Water Mill   NY	N / Y : 4 / Y
monica   cousteau   none	N / N : none / N	Please, Mr Nader, do not run for presidency. We, as a world, cannot afford a term again from the Bush administration. I hope the people of the USA have enough sense to realize a vote for Nader is a wasted one.
Russell   Craig Wilmington   DE	N / Y : 7 / Y
Diane   Cromer Palm Beach Gardens   FL	N / N : none / N	We all know for a fact that Mr. Nader cannot possibly win, so in the end the small percentage of votes will ONLY hurt the democratic candidate's chances. PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!DO NOT RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There will be a time and place for a green party candidate, but the 2004 election is DEFINITELY not the time. Thanks for your interest. Diane C.
LaMarr   Cromer Palm Beach Gardens   FL	N / Y : 8 / Y	Nader's candicy took votes away from Gore/Lieberman in 2000 that would have more than likely not made Florida the issue it became ... look what we got from it: high unemployment (higher than the numbers show because of the reporting criteria), business people that are in the National Guard & Reserves leaving their business (many times a small business that can't survive without the principal)and family with a severe loss of income in addition to their absence, unbelievable new rescrictions & invasions of our civil liberties, the TRUTH or many portion of it behind the 9-11 attacks hidden from the world, the risks of future elections with no integrity (as if 2000 had it) ... a 3rd Party candidate would only serve to insure 4 more years of GW Bush and the further decline of what was once the greatest county in the world by not only our standars but by most of the world.
Ann   Crosby Santa Barbara   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	I voted for Ralph Nader in the 2000 election but was so dismayed by the results - my vote counted AGAINST Al Gore and undercut Gore's campaign. Yes, Green ideals are fabulous, but we live in a real world with Electoral College limitations. Please dissuade Mr. Nader from running in 2004! How many elections does it take to realize that if we don't hang together, we'll hang separately???
dan   cuddeback cottekill   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	the stakes are too high to be making any points about the weaknesses of the two-party system. we need to deBush in 2004 or we'll have no country left.
Charles   Cummings Brewster   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Mr. Nader please do not run for president. I am very supportive of the Green Party and their platform as well as yourself. I continue to be impressed by you as a candidate and as a person, but please realize that by running for president again you will be hurting the democratic party as well as the green party, and vitually ensuring a Bush victory. I would donate and wholheartedly supoport a Nader Senate campaign, but not a presidential campaign at this time.
Damion   Da Costa Astoria   NY	N / Y : 1 / Y	I don't think that risking another 4 years of Bush is worth voting for Nader. Frankly I dont understand why he feels he needs to join at this time. Where has he been the last 3 1/2 years? There are only about fifty 24hr News Channels. I'm sure there was at least one of them who would ask for Ralph Naders take on things...SOMETHING. Please Ralph. We must stay focused on removing Bush. Be an attack dog for the good guys. After he's out, Do as you will.
David   Dague Chicago   IL	N / Y : 1 / Y	This is not the time to provide Bush with another four years at the helm of this nation as a byproduct of your ego trip. There are far too many dangerous precedents about to set by this man.
Lynn   Dahlquist San Antonio   TX	N / Y : 2 / N
Bree   Dalager Minneapolis   MN	N / Y : 2 / Y	I voted Nader in 2000, and planned to do it again in 2004, but Howard Dean absolutely blew me away. He is my candidate for 2004, though Nader would be my second choice. I have absolutely no regret about voting my conscience, and never will, but this time, my conscience says Dean. Please don't run for president, Mr. Nader. Run for the House, run for the Senate, run in your state, but don't run against Dean.
Christian   Dallett Brooklyn   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	Mr. Nader: You were an opportunistic Green candidate. You had little or no affinity for that party; and yet it suited your personal ambitions. Why would anyone want you now? Do you have a new book coming out; or is it that you can't stand not having the spotlight. Please don't bother. I'm not interested you what you may have to offer.
Christopher   Dalzell El Paso   TX	N / Y : 2 / Y	This election is too important to split the vote even slightly. The Greens need to get behind a Democratic candidate, most realistically Dean. A presidential bid by Nader, or any other Green at this point in time, would be blatant arrogance.
Kevin   Daniels Rochester   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	During the last presidential election, I felt that Mr. Gore backtracked on his long-held environmental positions in the weeks leading up to the contest. As a result, I cast my vote for Ralph Nader, feeling that he better represented my views. If only I had known what a bad president George Bush would make. This cycle, I believe our most important task is to get this awful president out of office. Yes, many of the problems with the system Ralph Nader identified are still there - but the problems George Bush has created for the world are so much greater. I will vote for ANY Democratic candidate who stands a chance of defeating him.
Susan   Davidson St. Louis   MO	N / Y : 1 / Y
Alex   Davies Montevallo   AL	N / Y : 2 / N	To Whom It May Concern: Please do all you can to keep Ralph Nader from running. The last thing we need is a third party to split the leftist vote.
Alex   Davis Boulder   CO	N / Y : 2 / Y	Ralph Nader is a great man who has pushed the social conscience of this country in extremely important ways. He has been a vital and super advocate of the people. However, the damage done in the last four years to women's rights, civil rights, THE ENVIRONMENT, the poor, children is so devastating it will take us a long time to recover. We cannot take any chance that G.W. Bush will win another four years; not any! I do not believe that Ralph Nader could win; but he certainly could cause the Democratic nominee to lose. I love Ralph and am glad he is working so hard for the causes he believes in because I believe in them as well; but this is the wrong time and the wrong way to make a point. PLEASE DONT RUN!!!
Horance   Davis Gainesville   FL	N / Y : 2 / Y	Ralph, you brought us Bush in 2000. Please don't do so in 2004. Thanks
Linda   Davis Kingston   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	If Ralph Nader runs for President in 2004, it will prove he is a secret Republican.
Benjamin   Day Brookline   MA	N / N : none / Y	Please do not run. You have every right to run but realistically you have no chance of winning and this is not the year to try to make some kind of "point" by being a protest candidate. Those of us who are against Bush need to join forces and defeat him. Separated, we will almost surely lose. I am a supporter of Howard Dean but I would encourage you to endorse the eventual Democratic nominee and do your best to mobilize the Greens in our common effort.
Robert   Dean Redding   CT	N / Y : 2 / N	Mr. Nader, you handed this country over to George Bush, John Ashcroft, and the Project for a New American Century. Your ego is apparently too large for you to see the damage you have done, but believe me, we would not be in the mess we are in if Al Gore had been able to take office. Many of your political concerns are valid, and at this point we have very little left of our democracy, but I can't imagine anybody less qualified than you to salvage it.
Charles   DeBarber Fairview Park   OH	N / Y : none / Y	Nader is not much different fromt he Democratic Party, which supports inhumanity and racism in the forms of affirmitive action, abortion, the hate crime, human cloning, and stem cell research.
Keith   DeBlasio Great Cacapon   WV	N / Y : 2 / Y
John   Demeter Duxbury   VT	N / Y : 2 / Y	I'm registered independent, and don't like or trust the machinery of either major party. If the Democrats nominate a truly progressive candidate (Dean, Kucinich, Moseley-Braun) I'd support him/her. I voted for Nader in 2000, and would vote for him sooner than Kerry, Clark, Edwards, Gephardt. I support Dean b/c he's sufficiently outside the national system to stand up for his beleifs, as well as his proven executive abilities and record in VT. Unfortunately, we're a long way from electing a third party candidate to national office, so a Nader run is a run for awareness and information, not the office. I'd certainly welcome Nader's participation in national debates, but not in a tone or manner that detracts from the candidacy of an electable progressive democrat.
Kari   Denissen St Paul   MN	N / Y : 2 / Y	I voted for Ralph Nadar in the 2000 elections, and I do not regret my vote. I think it is important for the United States to have a third party and I think Nadar's progressive message was important. I was a member of the Green Party in Mpls and I have worked on campaigns for local Green candidates, BUT this is a critical time in America and, for the security and prosperity of this country and the world, we need Bush OUT of the White House! The Green Party and Ralph Nadar need to work on building the party at the Grassroots local level right now- they need to work with Democrats as Allies to force instant run-off voting in this country. Without instant run off voting, Nadar will split the progressive vote and re-elect Bush- this is not the time for principals- it is time for progressives to come together and win! Once the Green's activism has led to instant run off voting than the Green's should run a lot of people for many kinds of elections. Howard Dean's campaign is getting many Americans who have never been engaged, engaged- this should be a campaign that progressives who voted for Nadar should get behind! Progressives need to be united, not divided in 2004- Nadar, Please, Please do not run!
Jason   Dent Austin   TX	N / Y : 2 / Y	I greatly support Mr. Nader and the entire left or left-leaning independent movement, however this year I feel as though there is far too much at stake to create a potentially divisive atmosphere. Mr. Nader himself has said that he views independent candidacies as an issue of free speech--and I whole-heartedly agree. But this year, what better way to underscore the extreme disapproval of the Bush administration than to unite behind a single message and candidate. Sometimes the most powerful statement to be made is to say nothing at all.
Barbie   Deutsch Santa Barbara   CA	N / Y : 2 / N	While I support much of what Ralph Nader stands for, he was one of the causes that led to the selection of George W. Bush. If he runs again, he will ensure that shrub will be re-elected, which would be an absolute disaster for our country. He has much to offer, but running for president is not one of the things that he could do to help his country.
Geoffrey   DeWan Los Angeles   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Please help us get our country back THEN we should talk about what else we'd like to do
Janice   Dickens Ellicott City   MD	N / Y : 2 / Y
Darryn   DiFrancesco Boynton Beach   FL	N / Y : 2 / Y	This is a message to Ralph Nader and to the Democratic Party. Mr. Nader, I was a strong supporter for you in the last election. I believed then that the differences between the two major parties were not enough to dissuade my vote for a 3rd Party. While I still believe that the leaders of the two parties, the DLC and the RNC have few differences, there are indeed some Democratic candidates who if they were to receive the nomination would bring the historic differences between the parties back to light. I encourage you not to run if one of these indiiduals receive the Democratic nomination, Howard Dean, Dennis Kucinich or Carol Mosely Braun. Also should you chooose to run, most of your rhetoric and argument should be aimed at the incumbant. To the party I say this: if the campaigns of Kerry, Clark, Gephardt, Edwards and especially Lieberman do not desist from the negative, personal attack mode that they are in now, I will find it hard not to encourage Mr. Nader to run as a 3rd Party candidate. After all these aforementioned gentlemen have produced no new ideas merely spiteful vitriol and dirty campaigning. It will be necessary for a 3rd party candidiate to be in the race if for no other reason than to keep the major party candidates honest.
Alison   Dignam Chicopee   MA	N / Y : 9 / Y
Greg   Dinger San Rafael   CA	N / Y : 9 / Y
Judy   Dodd Boiling Springs   SC	N / Y : 2 / N	While I've always admired Mr. Nader and believe in the causes he espouses, I think if he were to run, it would be a gift to George Bush in that it would hand him the election. I beg of Mr. Nader NOT to run. His causes/beliefs will only have a chance of being instituted if he works within the Democratic system to put a Democrat into office. Were he going to run, he should have started a year or so ago. I still would not have voted for him though, as I think Dean is the only candidate strong enough to beat Bush.
Kathleen   Donnelly Valrico   FL	N / Y : 2 / N	Since our political system is geared for two parties, right or wrong, the chances of a third party candidate winning the presidency nowadays are too remote to risk losing progressive and Democratic votes to someone who cannot win. A vote for a third party candidate, even if you really like the candidate, is like half a vote or a vote for the Republicans in this situation. Please, Mr. Nader, if you care about our country, do not run. We cannot survive another four years of Bush and his cronies. I would rather see the Democratic candidate offer Mr. Nader the Secretary of the Interior or EPA head position where he would be very valuable.
Mary   Donoghu Palo Alto   CA	N / Y : 2 / N	Dear Mr. Nader, PLEASE don't run for president in 2004. We need to get Bush out and we need every vote we can get. Our country can't afford another 4 yrs of Bush and company. I'm a progressive and I deeply admire Green values. Please, please don't hurt our chances of getting rid of Shrubco. Thanks . --Mary
john   donovan walnut creek   CA	N / N : none / Y	vote for nader = vote for bush
rodrigo   dorfman durham   NC	N / Y : 2 / Y	We need to UNITE and defeat GW BUSH and his cronies. Howard Dean is lifting the Democratic party away from the washington democrats and I believe a run by Nader would be totally irresponsible.
Paul   Dorner Blue Mounds   WI	N / Y : 2 / Y	RALPH!................. JOIN US>>>>>>>>>>
Clark   Dougan Pelham   MA	N / Y : 2 /
Brian   Douglas Akron   OH	N / Y : 2 / Y	How about a little less vanity and a little more solidarity, Mr. Nader?
Lianna   Dozor Annapolis   MD	N / Y : 2 / Y	It is too important to get George Bush out of the white house - if we all band together against him & his special interest money - we can do it! Please don't run!
Lawrence   Dudley Glens Falls   NY	N / Y : 2 / N
Sean   Duffy New York   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	I think that Howard Dean has and will continue to work hard to represent the views of progressive Democrats. His campaign has gathered the support of the type of Democrats who voted Green in 2000. Next year's election is going to be close. A presidential run by Ralph Nader would go a long way to bolstering George Bush, something no progressive wants.
Jay   Dufrechou Helena   MT	N / Y : 2 / Y	I live in Montana and voted for Mr. Nader in 2000. I would not have voted for him if I lived in a state that was not clearly going for Bush. While I support Green Party causes, particularly the need to reel in corporate control of politics, I am now convinced the movement for change needs to happen within the Democratic Party, where I am now very active for the first time in my life. I encourage Green candidates to run locally.
Shane   Dugan Uniontown   OH	N / N : none / Y
thomas   dunham Ann Arbor   MI	N / Y : 1 / N	Ralph Nader is a joke to me and I consider him an enemy of the environment for his unwise decision to run for the president. If his attitude is "My way or Deconstruction" - fuck him. Ralph is dead to me and his legacy of unceasing legal combat will be shown for what it is -- bitter and small-minded. Ralph Nader is simply a faster ambulance chaser with deeper pockets.
Philip   Dunkelbarger Westwood,   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y	It is not rational for Ralph Nader to think he can beat George Bush and the Republicans. He should spend whatever time, energy, and money he has supporting the Democratic Candidate. Why didn't he enter the Democratic Primary process, and argue his case just as have the other ten? He may have been resposnible for George Bush being President now. For God's sake, don't repeat the mistake!
Ralph   Durstein Wilmington   DE	N / Y : 2 / Y	Balancing the potential effect of an insurgent third-party candidate against the risk of another four years of Bush, I am not prepared to support a third-party presidential candidate in 2004.
Jake   Edie Chicago   IL	N / Y : 2 / N
Jake   Edmondson   none	N / Y : 4 / Y	We can't affort another Nader run...
Nicholas   Eigen Minneapolis   MN	N / Y : 2 / Y
Chuck   Eilerman Covington   KY	N / Y : 2 / Y
Erik   Ekdahl Ann Arbor   MI	N / Y : 2 / Y	After 2000, I simply cannot believe that a Ralph Nader run for the presidency is anything more than an ego trip on his part. The contention that Mr. Bush and Mr. Gore were 'the same candidate' now seems more erroneous than ever.
Thomas   Elliott Corunna   MI	N / N : none / N	I have always liked Ralph and have read his columns and views on many subjects. I have agreed with him on most everything he has said. Yes, this is America and if Ralph wants to run for the Presidency again, he's free to do so. But I think Ralph could better serve his goals by coming along and supporting the Democrats.
Kathleen   Ellis Spartanburg   SC	N / N : none / Y
Bart   Elsbach sheffield   MA	Y / : 9 / Y	Special offer! Read this for your chance to get a big campaign donation! Dean and I share many positions on issues. And he is a better alternative than another bush term: electing any animal, vegetable or mineral would also be a better alternative to the present situation. However, despite his redeeming stance on many issues, Dean is first and foremost a politician who is interested in getting himself into positions of power and control. This "poll", his dropping public funding, his supporting the war while it seemed in his career interest and than opposing it when that seemed strategic... all make it obvious that it is standard p.r and posing as much as any profound guiding philosophy that steers him. You are so ready to attack Nader now because you've switched teams and feel he detracts from your agenda. That narrow view is understandable if typically pathetic. Dennis Kuchinic stands out by being first and foremost guided by principle and admirable ethics and philosophies. You are right that this means he is not a viable candidate in this warped system. For the same reasons Dean is a viable candidate precisely because of his limitations as a person of ethics. Dean is a good default position and I will vote for him if he and his handlers like you don't slide too far in the direction you are already far along of this kind of stupid false polling on the pretext of being citizen centered and "different". You are like Heinz calling itself organic to target certain consumers. Let's call a spade a spade, you are not the real deal. You are better than what we have but short of what we need. Be careful that you don't continue down the slope to being the other side of the same coin as Bush. I am enclosing my email address. Please feel free to respond to my opinions (if you have actually read them). Sincerely, Bart Elsbach, registered voter in Massachusetts P.S. If you include this note in your presentation to Mr. Nader I will absolutely give a large donation to the Dean campaign.
Adrianne   Elsey-Whiton Greensburg   IN	N / Y : 2 / Y	I have been a long time admirer of Ralph Nadar and more than appreciate his many contributions to our nation, and I think that in the event he were to end up in the white house, he would conduct our nations business with the same integrity that he has exhibited in all his other dealings. However, at this time in our history I feel it is essential that we get G.W. out of office before he finishes the job of destroying our democracy, and because of the broken system we currently must contend with, I feel a democratic candidate is the only way we are going to win back this country. I am hoping that Ralph Nadar will throw all of his energy into seeing to it that this happens ...perhaps by endorsing Howard Dean...or in supporting whatever democrat wins the primary elections. Once we have accomplished this essential task, then we can work on fixing our election system.
Carol   Ely Louisville   KY	N / Y : 2 / Y	The best way to support Green Party ideals in THIS election is to support a candidate from the Democratic Party, and work within the party so that the progressive voice is heard. I urge Mr. Nader to continue to work for progress WITH the Democratic Party - it's too important to make a gesture towards a 3rd Party that can't win. We lost everything in the last election by dividing the progressive vote. Don't run.
Joe   Emerson Tabb   VA	N / Y : 2 / Y
Susan   Epstein Santa Barbara   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	In 1992, I was one of the 80,000 Californians who registered Green in order to get the Green Party on the ballot in California. I believe in a multiple party system, and I especially believe in the Green Party platform. This election year, however, I will vote for the Democratic Party nominee because the stakes are so high. Also, I recommend that Green Party candidates run for lower offices and local offices before going for big federal offices. Long term, that will give the Party the most credibility. Thank you.
Bill   Estes Key West   FL	N / Y : none / N	THe idea that Ralph Nader would try to run for the Presidency scaress me half to death. Isn't it enough that people are suggesting that an oil field in the National Park Systaem be named after him. I live in Florida, and believe me when I say that Ralph Nader is the most hated man in this state.
David   Everist Moab   UT	N / : 1 / Y	I believe that Ralph Nader would be a good domestic president. I would have to research how he would handle foriegn policy. The problem I have with Ralph Nader running for presidnet again is it will take away votes from any Democratic candidate giving Bush the election again. I believe that we need to do away with the electoral college, thus eliminating the two party system, for there to be a chance for a third party. I would like to do that and do away with the present corrupt system and give democracy a chance again in this country. Along with eliminating the electoral college, we need genuine election reform. Ideas like allowing all candidates equal time for free, paid for by the taxpayer if necessary, on national television. The third thing that would need to be done to return America to a state of the art democracy would be to overhaul the obsolete lobby system. We have the technology for the elected officals to talk directly with the constitutents. Simplifying daily agendas and having the Congressional site where people could weigh in on the bills being passed that they were interested in would truly create a great democracy. It would do more for democracy than spending $87 billion in Iraq for the oil companies and some future cash cow pipeline.
Dale   Eves   none	N / Y : 6 / Y
Judith   Ewen Donaldsonville   LA	N / Y : 2 / Y	Please, Ralph help us get Bush out of the White House and our lives. Don't dillute the vote, Judith Ewen
Aram   F.   none	Y / N : none / Y	If we progressives are such kingmakers, how about you squishie liberals get off your butts and come up with a good reason for us to not support Nader? He won't run to unseat Bush, but to expand multiparty (small-d) democracy in this country. So how about a few proposals on that, for example easier ballot access in states where you control the legislature? (Are you REALLY going to present all of these petitions to Nader?)
A.W.   Farnsworth IV Holland   OH	N / Y : none / Y	I have respected Ralph and the Green Party for a long time. I have worked along side Sidney Wolfe on Darvon addiction among Dentists in the 1980's. But I cannot support Ralph running this time. We must get the Bushwacker out of the White House and Ralph could spoil this chance. Dr. A.W. Farnsworth, IV
A.W.   Farnsworth IV Holland   OH	N / Y : none / Y	I have respected Ralph and the Green Party for a long time. I have worked along side Sidney Wolfe on Darvon addiction among Dentists in the 1980's. But I cannot support Ralph running this time. We must get the Bushwacker out of the White House and Ralph could spoil this chance. Dr. A.W. Farnsworth, IV
Griffis   Fassett Warwick   NY	N / Y : 2 / Y	I am interested in defeating GW Bush in November. I want to see a focused campaign to defeat the Republicans in November - I believe a third party will hurt the Democrats' chances to defeat the current setup in Washington.
Anne   Favor Green Valley   AZ	N / Y : 1 / N	Bush has the first "F" rating on the environment EVER! How can you say "all the candidates are the same."
Paula   Fee Middleton   MA	N / N : none / N	I believe in third parties, fourth fifth and independents. However, I believe a party starts at the bottom and when they have enough constituents because they have selectman mayors, state officials etc, then they should put up candidates for national office. Otherwise all they do is pull votes from the candidate with the platform closest to the third party, and allow the candidate furthest from the third party to win. Ross Perot did it 12 years ago and Nader did it 4 years ago. So, Mr. Nader, if you want Bush for 4 more years along with his Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, no Kyoto Agreement, no concern for global warming, then by all means run. Otherwise work with the Democratic candidate, maybe even ask for Greens to be in the Dept of the Interior, and work together. As they say, united we stand, and divided we fall- please don't divide us.
Karen   Felthauser Round Rock   TX	N / Y : 2 / Y	We absolutely can not have another four years of Bush! I am not in favor of anything which would siphon votes away from the Democratic Party this election cycle.
Eleanor   Ferris Chicago   IL	N / Y : 1 / Y	While I agree with many of Mr. Nader's ideas and issues, I feel that at this time a run for the office of president whould throw us deeper into trouble as this would mostlikely would be a vote for Bush as it was last time. Please, Mr. Nader DO NOT RUN - the nation can not afford 4 more years of the Emperor.
Miles   Fidelman Newton   MA	N / N : none / Y
Martha   Filipic Marion   OH	N / Y : 2 / Y	I would never vote for Ralph Nader for president. I firmly believe that if he had bowed out of the Florida race in 2000, this country would be much better off by not having Bush in the White House now. I will never forgive Nader for that, nor will I ever forget.
Eve   Firor Franklin   WV	N / N : none / N	The only priority is to beat bush in 04. While I admire Nader and believe he has made great contributions to our society, I do not think he should run. He will be most effective in behind the scenes work.
sharon   fisher kuna   ID	N / Y : 2 / Y	Look, I respect a lot what Ralph Nader is trying to do, and he's done marvelously well, but we learned in 2000 that there is no such thing as a vote of conscience -- every vote for Ralph Nader is essentially a vote for George Bush. Let's pull together to keep our eye on the goal: getting Bush out.
Aleen   Fison Anchorage   AK	N / N : none / Y	We have been supporters of Ralph Nader up until now. That certainly ends with his announcement today of running for president. He certainly is loosing contact with the real world and keeping George Bush in the white house. He is making it more difficult to get a change which we very much need. We are independent voters and this makes us very sad and disappointed in Ralph Nader Hope he will withdraw for the benefit of the country.
Simeon   Fitch San Antonio   TX	N / Y : 4 / Y	I voted for Nadar in 2000. His time is now passed.
don   flanary san antonio   TX	N / Y : 2 / N
Tom   Flannagan Danvers   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y	I voted for Ralph last time because I was very disappointed by Al Gore's awful handling of his campaign and wishy-washy flip-flopping on the issues. However, we now have a real choice - Howard Dean - and I do not want Ralph to ruin our chances of beating Bush.
Bob   Flisser Flemington   NJ	N / Y : 2 / N	Ralph Nader is personally responsible for throwing the 2000 election to the worst "president" (I use the term loosely) in American history. Anyone who maintains that there is little difference between the two major parties is either uninformed or deceitful. If Nader really wants to put this country back on track, he will either support the Democratic nominee or just keep his mouth shut.
Alice   Flynn Bozeman   MT	N / Y : 2 / N
Pamela   Folely   CA	N / Y : 2 / N	Mr; Nader, I used to be a real fan of yours and still agree with you on many issues. However, your superlarge ego is getting in the way of all of our desires (including yours) to see things really change in this country. Please think of the country instead of yourself and stay out of the way. Pamela M. Foley, MD
Tony   Ford Murfreesboro   TN	N / Y : 2 / Y
Mary   Francis   none	N / Y : 9 / Y	United against the Bush Cabal, should be the mantra of any progressive thinking person in America. To run as an Independent in an imperfect system, is to say that we don't care if the Bush people continue to dismantal our environmental protections, send jobs overseas and reward the greedy rich with more tax cuts. Please be a thinking, responsible good man in these very troubling times, and get behind someone who might beat Bush. Thank you
Caroll   Franklin Winter Haven   FL	N / Y : 2 / Y	Ralph Nader already messed up one election. It's time for him to back his beliefs by supporting Howard Dean
Cynthia   Franklin   none	N / Y : 2 / N	I understand that Mr. Nader has every right to run. I just hope that he can hold off for another 8 years assuming that a democrat wins the Presidencial race. I feel that after what happened last time if we can have Bush out of office it will be better for everyone in the long run.
Lisa   Fredsti   CA	N / N : none / Y	Don't do it.
paul   freeman manhattan beach   CA	N / Y : 2 / Y	I feel that it was a big mistake for ralph and the greens to work from the top down, as opposed to generating grassroots support for local green officials. I was a registerd green the last 2 elections, but voted for the dem as the greens need to mature as a party to have a chance. The only one who is pushing for another green/nader run for prisident is george bush.
Joyce   Friedman Cambridge   MA	N / Y : 2 / Y
Guy   Fringer