Where We Stand

O'Leary Letter - Passed July 3, 2007

Resolution of the Arlington County Democratic Committee to Condemn Statements and Actions of O’Leary for Treasurer Campaign

WHEREAS, a letter entitled “Taxpayer Alert”, dated June 6, 2007, was mailed to approximately 1,500 selected Arlington households by the O’Leary for Treasurer Campaign, arriving shortly before the recent June 12, 2007 primary election;

WHEREAS, the letter contained a false statement regarding the support of “minority churches” for a primary opponent;

WHEREAS, the letter contained other statements that were deeply offensive to Democratic values espoused by this Committee and the Democratic Party, and which have understandably caused hurt and anguish in the Arlington community;

WHEREAS, the tactics, tone and content of this letter have no place in Democratic campaigns in Arlington, and have been justifiably condemned by Democratic elected officials, party members and concerned citizens;

WHEREAS, the Committee has a responsibility to ensure that the Party is an effective, positive force in electing Democratic candidates, now and in the future;

WHEREAS, the Committee has an obligation to ensure that all Arlingtonians clearly understand the values of the Democratic Party;

NOW THEREFORE, on this 3rd day of July, 2007, it is hereby resolved that the Arlington County Democratic Committee:

Condemns the offensive statements in the O’Leary campaign letter, and the tactics represented thereby;

Will not include statements supporting the O’Leary campaign in its joint campaign materials for the 2007 general election, including the ACDC website;.

Will not include the O’Leary campaign in its joint campaign events, or provide access to ACDC resources, for the 2007 general election;

States unequivocally its rejection of appeals, direct or implied, to racial or ethnic divisiveness by Democratic candidates, which will be subject to rebuke by this Committee;

In an effort to make clear the Committee’s values and expectations for candidates seeking and carrying our nomination or endorsement, directs the Chair to appoint a commission to examine the Committee’s general role in the nomination and endorsement caucus campaign process, in addition to campaign conduct in the general election, and make recommendations with respect thereto; and

Further directs the Chair to engage in appropriate outreach efforts to address the hurt caused by the letter and to promote a healing process in the Arlington community.