Vogeler Letter to Garvey

Green Party US Senate candidate Rae Vogeler sent the letter below to Ed Garvey, requesting that she be given the opportunity to speak at the so-called Fighting Bob Fest this Saturday. Rae's supporters have been told that she cannot speak because she is a candidate. Does Ed really expect anyone to believe that if Tammy Baldwin, for example, were challenging Herb Kohl in a Democratic primary that she would not be invited to speak at BobFest? Does he want us to believe that if Spencer Black were challenging Doyle in a primary for governor that Spencer would not be speaking?

You can email Ed at Comments@FightingBob.com

Hi Ed,

I hope you're doing well. I am sending this email to again request speaking at "Fighting Bob Fest" this Saturday, September 9th. My campaign has asked several times, and has been turned down each time.

I was told I could not speak because I am running for office. It seems peculiar that Tammy Baldwin, a Democratic Party candidate for Congress, is allowed to speak at "Fighting Bob Fest" and I am not. It has come to my attention that Gwen Moore spoke in the past when she was running for Congress as a Democrat. And it is most unusual that no Green Party speaker at all is scheduled this Saturday.

I mentioned this situation in my WORT radio interview today at 12:30 pm, and numerous people called in, dismayed that "Fighting Bob Fest" is not living up to Robert La Follette's legacy. He ran for President in 1924 as a Progressive Party candidate, breaking with the Republican Party. I said on WORT that he is probably turning over in his grave, knowing that a Chautauqua in his name is denying third party candidates speaking privileges, especially given the theme "Hold Them Accountable." I am trying to hold Herb Kohl and others accountable for supporting the Iraq war, cuts on domestic programs, and infringements on our civil liberties.

I ask that you reconsider your decision and be accountable to those who want diverse voices at "Fighting Bob Fest 2006." I am interested in an equal opportunity to address the grandstand audience at the festival. I respectfully request a reply with your decision by 5:00 pm, Thursday, September 7th. I would be happy to speak with you directly about how long and the content of my speech. You can reach me at 608-237-1337.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,
Rae Vogeler - http://www.VoteRae.org