Jeff Blodgett has over 25 years experience in community organizing and political management.
In addition to his leadership of Wellstone Action, Jeff also trains, teaches, and writes extensively on political skills, public management, and leadership. Jeff studied with Paul Wellstone at Carleton College and began his career as a community organizer, working with hard-pressed family farmers during the 1980s farm crisis. He later spent 13 years as a senior aide, advisor, and campaign manager to the late Senator (1989-2002), managing all three of his election campaigns, including the hard-fought 2002 race that was tragically cut short by a plane crash.
Jeff has served in key positions in dozens of other campaigns, including a post as Senior Advisor for Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar's 2006 race, and Get Out the Vote (GOTV) Senior Advisor for the 2004 Kerry Coordinated Campaign in Minnesota. A 1983 graduate of Carleton College, he earned his Master of Public Administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government in 1998.
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POSTS BY JEFF BLODGETT
Obama has helped to usher in a new era in politics with a new mandate
for change. But he also brings with him into office a new American ethos for citizenship and service. That spirit reminds me, perhaps unsurprisingly, of the work of
community organizers.
Last year, I was honored to accept the Distinguished Minnesotan Award given posthumomously to Paul and Sheila Wellstone at the Bemidji State University Commencement. As graduation time rolls around again, here are some thoughts on engaging in politics and public life.
At Wellstone Action! we're always looking for examples of
candidates who have tried to bring community organizing tactics to their
campaigns. Nowadays, the Obama Presidential Campaign is perhaps the
best example. Obama has made an unprecedented investment in on-the-ground
organization, and has in the process cultivated well-trained and highly
motivated volunteers. A number of articles have recently examined this, and
we've compiled several excerpts for your convenience.
"Field organizing" is the new buzz word in this year's presidential campaigns. Pundits and campaign analysts who are used to talking about which candidates are raising the most money, securing the most endorsements, getting the highest poll numbers, and airing the cleverest TV ads, are suddenly talking about who has the best field operation.
Neighborhood Voter Contact Program
Running a Doorknock Operation
Leadership Development
Get Out The Vote
Voter Registration