26 Comments

Nice to see some familiar names in this essay, Bob, and to have these reminders that people are doing good work in Iowa. You included.

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I felt like I walked beside you on your election journey this morning. Thank you.

I am full of hope and optimism today. Women will win this. We won’t go back.

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Same

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My mantra for the day is, "Trust the women."

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Bob documents history in real time. And the future is hopeful!

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These dispatches from the field are the sort of thing that still give me hope. Thank you for that.

Fingers crossed here in WI as well!

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Thanks! On Wisconsin!

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Nov 5Liked by Robert Leonard

I will be attending a watch party tonight with six of my women friends. At 80 I will be the youngest attendee. Norma at 93 will be the oldest. Women are going to bring home a victory for Kamala. Yes, we can! 💙💙

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Channeling Gus Walz. "That's my mom! That's my mom!"

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Nov 5Liked by Robert Leonard

Great writing, as always. Mark my words, people will be studying this election for decades to come, truly historic. Your "on-the-ground" reports, and thoughtful commentary, are invaluable.

One more thought: all the workers at my precinct were women (except one). Women really do make our democracy work. THANK YOU, POLL WORKERS!

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That is one of the finest essays I’ve read yet about this moment we all face. Thanks, Bob, for documenting this corner of history. Godspeed, my friend.

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Thanks Ed--especially since it's from one of the best journalists I know...

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Bob--Always love your insights! Bringing hope and joy! Chris Louscher

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Nov 5Liked by Robert Leonard

As always, thanks Bob. My brother texted me this morning, “Stay calm, we do not have to fear, for there is a God in heaven and He is in control!” I consider myself a Christian, and I truly hope God is in control, today. In the meantime, I’m going to replace the 7 democratic candidate yard signs in my yard with a new one that reads, “F’ around and find out!”

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Thanks Thomas! I saw that mayor say that on twitter. I thought it was perfect!

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Nov 5Liked by Robert Leonard

A guarded optimism and hope that all of the Republican voters coming off their sofas will not match the zealous democrats who can no longer tolerate hate and darkness. We need a HUGE turnout. As always, well done Bob.

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Nov 5Liked by Robert Leonard

I'm a long way from Marion County, but certainly appreciate the many women who are the backbone of the Democratic Party these days! As aragant as Trump is, he sewed up his demise by his unconcious move to do away with Roe V Wade, and it has been terrible for many, but I think this will put the issue to bed once and for all. Trump and the issue of abortion seem to be tied together in many ways, and being done with both will make it easier to sleep at night.

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Thanks to you, Bob, and others who are part of the Iowa Writers Collaborative - leading the way to save democracy.

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You are a big part of it too, Jim.

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Same gender breakdown in Story County, rural, small town and Ames. Majority of volunteers are women. But, I am careful to add that plenty of men from all demographics. At some of the postcard writing parties, we would have 18-20 + women and 2 men (I counted)

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Nov 5Liked by Robert Leonard

Thanks for a nice warm cup of Hope!

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Nov 5Liked by Robert Leonard

My name would be among them if I had the energy to be out knocking on doors. I still have two Democrat signs in my yard and will put out a vote today sign before I go a couple of blocks down the street to vote.

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