The Best Days Of My Life

After spending all week trying to think of a poignant way of making this announcement, and drawing nothing but blanks, I have decided to just say it as plainly as I can. Today, after more than three years, I am stepping down as the lead writer and managing editor of MyDD. In a little more than three weeks, I will be starting a new website with Matt and one other partner, Mike Lux of the Huffington Post. Expect to hear more on that in the coming days.

This is not a decision I made lightly, or without real emotional anguish. It is not an exaggeration to say that MyDD has been my life for these past three years. For almost every single one of the past 1,141 days, I threw virtually everything in my being into making this blog work. As Matt filmed me saying in November, and as I wrote back in December, my existence has merged with the blog. When MyDD is doing well, I feel like I am doing well. When MyDD isn’t doing well, I feel like I have failed. I blog, therefore I am.

I started blogging on MyDD at a time in my life when little else was going well. My academic career was in the toilet, and the thought of further teaching was literally giving me nightmares. Financially, I was so badly off, that I thought I was going to have to move out of my apartment. I had gone on exactly one date in the previous fourteen months. Considering the situation I was in, when Jerome gave me this chance, I latched onto the site and worked on building it up as though my life depended on it. In some ways, maybe it did. In the movie Blog Wars, there is a segment where I am giving a speech and crediting Jerome for saving me. It sounds corny, and I cringed when I saw the movie, but it isn’t far from the truth. I will forever be grateful to Jerome, and we are still on the best of terms.

So, why am I moving on? I hinted at the reason in yesterday’s post, Expanding Beyond Just Partisanship. As much as I have enjoyed writing about politics and elections from a partisan Democratic viewpoint, my political background is in the social justice movement and decidedly on the left. I want to write about more than just elections and political infrastructure, and I want to explicitly work toward building a progressive governing majority. However, to do so would be to take MyDD too far away from its longstanding purpose. I have always argued that successful blogging is focused blogging, and MyDD won’t succeed if it loses its niche and its brand. Also, I want to do much more extended writing on single campaigns, ala Googlebomb the Elections, Use It Or Lose It, or The Inflated Clinton Poll Theory, and join in discussions with a wider variety of individuals and organizations in the progressive movement. Structurally speaking, that means moving somewhat away from the rapid, chronologically backward scrolling format of traditional blogs.

However, even though I am moving on, I will always hold Jerome, Jonathan, MyDD and the community in the utmost esteem for the rest of my life. Also, I imagine I will return to post and comment here from time to time, and that I will also continue to post occasionally until the new website launches in mid-July. There is no way I could ever entirely leave something that has meant this much to me. Also, even though I am “retiring” from MyDD, I will continue to work as hard as I can both within and for the progressive blogosphere community. I have every confidence that we will continue to succeed in our fight to build a progressive America as long as we continue to stay engaged in the fight, and as long as we continue to work together.

In the extended entry, I have compiled my favorite articles and campaigns over the past three years. Ah, memories! Seeing them all listed in one place reminds me just how amazing this time has been. To quote Gonzo the Great, I can sum it all up in one word: “indescribable.”

Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone for making these past three years the best of life. Now, onward and upward!

Update: Thanks everyone for your comments. I almost feel like crying. You guys mean a ton to me.

2004 2005 2006 2006 Major Campaign Projects 2007

Display:


Chris Bowers Leaves MyDD (none / 0)

Good luck Chris. You've already helped bring about a positive change in our country and I'm sure that you'll continue to do so at your new address.
by Curt Matlock on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:05:22 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Congratulations! This site has changed the party and the country for the better. Best of luck with the new site, it'll be bookmarked.


by OtH on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:08:08 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Godspeed Bowers.  And thanks for the memories (and the google bombs!).


www.adamconner7.com
by Adam Conner on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:09:21 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I hope the new project works out great for you, Chris.


"Another problem we have...is that in election years we behave somewhat as primitive peoples do at the time of the full moon." --Harry Truman
by Steve M on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:09:24 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Thanks for all you do. Good luck.

That was definitely a big hint you gave yesterday!


by adamterando on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:09:50 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I've been reading MYDD coming up on two years now. I must say, as someone who is still developing his ideology and political thinking, your posts have probably been the single most important influence on my views regarding political activism.

I'll be sorry to see you go but look forward to the new site.


by js noble on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:13:47 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Seconded.

What will MyDD be without you guys? I don't even know. I'll follow you to your new site, but I'd just like to say you all on MyDD shaped me as an activist as well as a thinker, and it looks like your new direction will continue and enhance that legacy.

Excelsior!


Rochester Turning: Turning the tide Upstate.
by sayhar on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:16:38 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Thirded,

I'm not worried about MyDD, though - there are many talented folks to draw upon here.

I'm very much looking forward to seeing what Chris and Matt create. I'm sure it'll be a bright new jewel in the left blogosphere's crown.


by Malacandra on Sat Jun 16, 2007 at 11:04:52 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Wow (none / 0)

I'll never forget your advice on how to become a full time blogger. That was priceless. You're my favorite full time blogger Chris. I'm going to miss you greatly. You and MyDD are truly one and the same in my mind.

I'm looking forward to your new project. I'm sure you will do well and I'm equally sure there are plenty out there who will be certain to help make sure that you are sucessful. You are a credit to the blogosphere and an inspiration to many. All the best to you and thank you so much for the past three years of your life as expressed through this blog.


Witty comment goes here...
by michael in chicago on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:14:42 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (3.00 / 1)

Looking forward to the new site. Your poll analysis was what drew me to MyDD in the first place.


"Another problem we have...is that in election years we behave somewhat as primitive peoples do at the time of the full moon." --Harry Truman
by Ernst on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:17:49 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck Chris!

I would say that I am going to miss my favorite front-page blogger, but I guess I can just head over to the new site.


by KickinIt on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:19:02 PM EST

Wow (none / 0)

I can't believe it. Well, congratulations, and good luck Chris.


by taylormattd on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:19:36 PM EST

Damn, this sucks (none / 0)

I mean, congratulations, good luck and all that, but this sucks.


by danielj on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:20:46 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Look forward to seeing your new stuff.


by catherineD on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:21:19 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Bon voyage to the Bill James of politics.  Is there life after MyDD?  You bet.  I'll miss you.  I'll miss the analysis.  Oh, wait, you are just going on to the next good thing.

Thanks, Chris.


by David Kowalski on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:25:27 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (3.00 / 2)

Chris, you don't know me, I'm just a random guy hiding behind a fake name on the tubes, but you've  been a pretty constant presence in my life for years. You've informed me (sometimes infuriated me! but mostly enlightened me ...) and my political opinions and engagement.

Thanks so much.


by BingoL on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:25:50 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

what he said goes for me too!


by aiko on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:40:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck Chris.


BlueSunbelt.Com Netroots for the Sunbelt states robwire.com My personal blog
by robliberal on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:26:10 PM EST

I think this will deal a very hard blow to MyDD (none / 0)

....without your incredible wealth of analysis I don't see where that extra slack and credibility in that particular subject is going to come from. You have been the face of MyDD for years.


by MNPundit on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:26:24 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Wow, I don't really know what to say.
You're probably my second favorite blogger, behind only Hunter, dKOS's master of Snark.  I've always loved your insightful analysis.  I'm dissappointed that you're leaving MyDD, and that'll likely reduce the number of times per day that I refresh MyDD.com, but I'm glad to hear you're starting a new blog.  I'll definitely read you there.
by Kalil on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:26:42 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (3.00 / 2)

Chris. You gave me this opportunity here at MyDD, for which I will always be endebted to you. You, as well as Jerome, were the models for how I began to approach blogging. I still to this day enjoy your blogging more than just about anyone elses. I know I'm going to miss seeing your posts here every day, but look forward to seeing what you achieve in this next endeavor.


My Direct Democracy
by Jonathan Singer on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:26:59 PM EST

Thank you Chris (none / 0)

Thanks for all your hard work.

I don't know you but I don't have a higher opinion of anybody I read on a regular basis - I think you set the standards for integrity and hard work in the blogosphere. I'm looking forward to bookmarking your new site and the other MyDD writers picking up the baton and continuing to do a great job.

Cheers.

PS - Good luck to Stoller too!


"Nothing seems to embarrass the political class today." - Bill Moyers
by joejoejoe on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:30:19 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Congratulations Chris on taking on new challenges! Best wishes to you in your new endeavors. Thank you for your many contributions.
by WVaBlue on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:31:32 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Best of luck to you Chris.   I don't always agree with you but you're part of the team that has made MyDD my favorite political website.  


by InigoMontoya on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:33:22 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

You know that you are one of my favorite people in the world and I wish you the best.

I've been reading MyDD since before Jerome was lucky enough to find you and I'm sure it will go on nicely.


Bob Brigham Blog
by Bob Brigham on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:36:59 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

i'm going to miss refreshing mydd, or my rss reader, just praying for another chris bowers post.  Even during the times when I've been on "political overload", I still sneak peaks at mydd, hoping to find another one of your gems.

But while I'll miss "mydd Chris", I can't wait to see where your new adventures go.  From what you've briefly described, it seems like your new setup will let you fully embrace your goals.

One last note...your "Battle Of Civilizations" post has had the biggest impact on me of any piece of writing in the last three years.  I bring it up any time I have the chance.


by Ian Campbell on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:37:18 PM EST

Thank You (3.00 / 1)

Chris, you're the one that got me hooked on political blogging. I just came upon MyDD by chance one day, and your intelligent, insightful posts made me take this medium seriously.

I look forward to seeing your future projects. You're one of the most valuable resources the progressive movement has.


Walberg Watch - Following Radical Conservative Rep. Tim Walberg in MI-07
by Fitzy on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:37:52 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Chris, I'll just have to add one more site to my regular viewing once you move on, but good luck and thanks for the memories. Even in the post where you announce you're leaving you must have put in several man hours backtracking your favorite posts, which is a big service. I kept running into old favorites. I've passed around Anti-Labor, Pro-Liberal to a lot of people.
by Kombiz Lavasany on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:44:04 PM EST

Oh no! (none / 0)

Say it ain't so!

MyDD has forever changed the way I look at politics, and looking over the articles you list above, I can see why.

If you're moving on to bigger and better, then I have no choice but to follow you there - so keep writing so I can keep reading!

Good luck to you, Mr. Bowers. The place won't be the same without you.

-GFO


by GuyFromOhio on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:44:46 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck Chris. Sounds like you're going to continue to do some great things.


by lhuynh on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:44:55 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Wherever service calls you is the right direction.


by liberalminded on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:48:19 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Well, you will be sorely missed at MyDD.  Especially if you will be taking Matt with you, the two of you are pretty much the guts of MyDD.  

Your clear analysis, integrating disparate facts into a cohesive forward-thinking action plan, that reflects progressive values, will be missed.

Your gift, to be able to write "integrated passionate analysis", analysis that is objectively faithful to ALL the facts available (without dismissing facts or perspectives hostile to one's values), and bring these messy facts and perspectives into a forward thinking, whole, action narrative.

So, bye-bye MyDD - it was GREAT while it lasted!  


by jc on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:49:05 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good Luck and thanks.


What would LBJ do?
by Socks The Cat on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:49:39 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Thanks for all your hard work, Chris. We're all looking forward to the new site!


by College Progressive on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:53:16 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Holy shit.

Reading this I immediately felt a sense of loss, but then realized that I will just have to go to another site to find your extraordinarily insightful writings.  I wish you the best of luck in your new endeavor.  This site is losing it's most powerful voice.  Others will step up, but it will never be the same.

Life moves on.


by juls on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:54:42 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Chris, the standard that you've set for political blogging is a constant encouragement for all the rest of us just trying to fake it 'til we make it.  "Use it or Lose it" was a stroke of brilliance, and it gave some of the party elites a much-needed kick in the ass--it was a perfect example of how the blogosphere can nudge our candidates to do the right thing, without having to threaten them with primary challenges or cutting off support.  You managed to increase the Netroots' profile in party affairs while providing a tangible benefit to the party itself, which is no small feat and something future online activists ought to acknowledge and emulate.

Best of luck on the new venture, and everything else.  I'm on pins and needles waiting for the site launch.


by Jay R on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 01:58:52 PM EST

Well... (none / 0)

Best of Luck, and I hope that the continues to purr.  I like Stoller, good guy, but it was Jerome that drew me here and then you that kept me here, so I guess I'll be holding my breath.


BlueNC - Progressive NC Politics
by Robert P on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:03:57 PM EST

You have forever changed... (none / 0)

our movement.  

I'm both happy and sad to hear your news.  

Happy as it means yet another valuable source available on the web, focused on an area that I'm passionate about - social justice and building a progressive movement.

Sad because this community will be losing a powerful voice.  Though I don't always agree with you, I recpect your opinion and the way your thoughts have moved various conversations forward.

As my friends like to say, "you're a keeper".  We'll always keep you with us.  And you'll keep us with you in your new endeavour.

All the best to you...


Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. -- Martin Luther King, Jr.
by passionateprogressive on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:09:52 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (3.00 / 1)

I think we may be due for one more Poetry Friday.


John McCain loves war.
by Winston Smith on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:13:32 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I certainly hope so.


by Lucas O'Connor on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 06:15:10 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

It sucks your leaving, but you got to do what you go to do.  Great job over the last 3 years... You helped get me passionate again.  

Good Luck!


http://www.imvotingrepublican.com/ McCain Sucks!
by yitbos96bb on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:15:25 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Thank you, Chris, for all your work at MyDD. I'm very excited to see your next move. The situation you find yourself in re: partisanship and ideology is obviously one that many progressives are also facing right now. Gor that reason and others, I'm sure that your voice will continue to be among the strongest and most relevant in the netroots as it evolves - and it needs to. This isn't 2004 anymore, or 2006.
by tparty on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:15:39 PM EST

Thanks, Chris (none / 0)

You're one of the best, if not the best.

What's the name of the new blog?


by david mizner on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:16:38 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (3.00 / 1)

Chris Bowers, Tim Tagaris, Jerome Armstrong.  You guys are the great part of the reason for my reconciliation with the Democratic Party.  I'd say I'll miss you Chris, but I'll just be following you at your new gig.  Congrats and good luck.
p.s. to Matt: sometimes I'm with you and sometimes you drive me crazy.  Isn't that what good writing is all about, trying to start the conversation?  Good luck to you also.  And thanks to both of you.
by Demo Dan in Dayton on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:22:51 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Thank you.

Hackett was fun, wasn't it?

Tim


by Tim Tagaris on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 09:26:49 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Let's give a big hurray for emphasizing ideology. Let's give a cheer for thoughtful essays that make the case for Progressivism. Let's give a shout out for the best (and most accurate, by the way) poll analysis on the internet. Thanks for devoting your years to this. You've made a difference and there's good hope for more!


by billybob on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:24:16 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck, man. You were part of a team that has given me the chance to express myself politically.


by Pravin on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:25:35 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck.  My RSS reader will follow...


Want Blue States? ActBlue!
I work for ActBlue.
by KansasNate on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:26:03 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I will really miss your post on polling and political infrastructure, I can't think of anyone filling the hole that you are leaving. I really hope that you will continue to post on these subjects every now and then!

Good luck with your blogging and your life.


The history of the left is a history of purists betraying the progressive movement so that they can feel good about their righteous selves.
by Populism2008 on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:26:38 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Chris - you've done so much for us. Thank you


Hillary/Obama08
by annefrank on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:28:12 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck Chris!  I'm sure this move will help you grow & keep fighting the good fight.  I'd say you will be missed but of course I'll check the new blog.  Congratulations!


by howardpark on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:28:27 PM EST

Moving on! (none / 0)

Best wishes for your future Blogging endeavors!

I am sure we will be looking forward to your new site!  Best of luck and wishes for your new path.


Check out the New Progressive Blog EENRBLOG
by dk2 on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:34:01 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I can't wait to see what the new site is like, but you will surely be missed around here.  You have certainly been the driving force that made MyDD such a huge success.  I hope whoever takes over can continue the great work you've done here.  They've got some big shoes to fill.


Rudy Giuliani hates firefighters. And puppies.
by Fran for Dean on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:35:29 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

To echo another comment, you and MyDD are why I came back into the fold of the Democratic party. If dedicated people like you believe that we can leave our progressive mark on the party, then I want to be a part of that. Thanks to you, I am.


www.thingsyoungerthanmccain.com
by LandStander on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:35:54 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

You'll be missed.  

More than any other bloggers I usually read you seemed determined to use what power you had to actually make change, like the googlebombs and 'use it or lose it'.  

The trip you took through PA and upstate NY last fall doing canvassing for different campaigns was also just some really cool reporting from the field.


by Nolan on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:36:03 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Congratulations on the new beginning!  You've been a political mentor to me since 11/2004, and we took our country back.  Now that we have it, I agree it needs a big push to the left now, and I'll be seeing you at the new site!

My guess is that you didn't want to start with your House and Senate forecasts, and I don't blame you - they looked like incredible time-sucks (well, the way you did it, namely rather accurately), and honestly they were the only posts of yours that I would just skim, they just had too much detail for me.

Best,


end the occupation of Iraq
by aip on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:39:44 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

You were my favorite front-page poster. Good luck to you at your new website, which I will definitely visit.


by Korha on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:39:55 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Couldn't have said it better myself so I won't try.


by conspiracy on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:57:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

phew! (none / 0)

I thought you were gonna say you'd decided to open a restaurant and star in a reality show!

Sorry to see you are leaving MyDD, but glad to hear about the new site.  Great news.

Looking forward to following your work on the new project--and to watching MyDD--once again--bring up a new crew to lead the national discussion.


by Jeffrey Feldman on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:48:23 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (3.00 / 1)

best of luck, chris! can't wait to see the new site. this place won't be the same.


by Todd Beeton on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:49:27 PM EST

Thanks, Chris (3.00 / 1)

When I first discovered the blogosphere in the run-up to the 2004 election, myDD became my first stop during every morning's blog-reading, mostly based on your writing. I first liked the more hard-headed poll-crunching and electoral strategizing, but what gradaully impressed me even more were your ventures into more philosophical territory and explorations of the nature of ideology... and how to fight back effectively while constrained by the rules of the existing discursive arena. Unlike most of the rest of the blogosphere, you actually have a) a sense of humor about it, and b) the ability to incorporate some academic theory without being incomprehensible or pedantic. I'm glad to see you're ready to take it to the next level, whatever that might be, and I'll certainly check out your new site.


by Crazy Vaclav on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:53:24 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Sorry to see you go, Chris. You've done good work, and I think its pretty clear that you put a lot of heart into your efforts here at MyDD. Good luck with the new site! Make sure to stop in and check on us every once in awhile.  

p.s.

Does this mean that Matt is going with you?


by mihan on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:53:25 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Wow.  Hard to believe you're leaving!  For the longest time your writing has defined MyDD and has a profound influence on the way we thinking about the progressive movement and its approach to politics.  And on a personal level, I very much appreciate the chance you gave me to front-page here at MyDD as well.  I'm looking forward to the next chapter eagerly.  Good luck!


Strengthening the progressive movement through liberal entrepreneurship http://www.plantingliberally.org
by Shai Sachs on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:54:04 PM EST

Dammit Chris (none / 0)

Now you make me rewrite an open thread at my site, which was linking your earlier piece.

You'll be sorely missed.  Actually, you won't be missed, because I'll probably be reading your new site instead of MyDD.  You and Stoller were the only reason I read this place anyway.


ProgressiveHistorians: History For Our Future
by Nonpartisan on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:55:14 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I think this is wonderful news. Obviously a loss for the site, but, I am very excited and enthused about the new direction you are taking your work. It's time for us to start building a progressive, socially democratic movement. We must think big, and you seem to be doing precisely that. I look forward to your new project.


by eugene on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 02:55:43 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

but, but, but, ...
If it weren't for folks like Chris, I'd never have gotten on a blog in the first place.  I'm still a relative newbie around blogs (especially compared to Matt, Chris, Jerome, etc.!) and while I may support change in our country (with Dumb-dumb in charge, who in their right mind doesn't!), I don't actually like change in my personal life at all.  but I look forward to Chris and Matt et al at the new site.  Progressive politics and the progressive movement is important to me as well.  so, I'll try to roll with the punches here.

but really, don't go too far.  I value your work and your insights.


by edgery on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:02:53 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck Chris. I'll be reading your new site and I look forward to the many action items that I'm sure will be there.


by Elise on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:02:55 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I wrote about it in the DMI year in review report and I'll say it here again, Use it or Loose it was brilliant. It was your brainchild and its one for the history books. I am sure that you'll be making even more history thru your next venture with the equally awesome Mr. Lux.

I'll miss you at MyDD for sure. But I also have a sneaking suspicion that your next endeavor is going to knock our socks off.


by DMIer on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:03:44 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

::sniff, sniff::

When I first started reading blogs in the fall 2003, the two I read regularly were Kos and MyDD.  

But on the good side, I look forward to seeing you launch your new venture.

Good luck!


by KimPossible on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:08:00 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I hope in your new blog you talk about capital punishment and the justice system.  I recently wrote a blog about the nominees submitted by Sens. John Warner & Webb for the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. This is the kind of blogging I would love to see more of.  Legal mixed with social justice:)


by notime4lies on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:10:37 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Oops, meant to say I wrote a post.


by notime4lies on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:27:48 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

After November 2004, I was burned out and disillusioned about politics, and I took a job as a fact checker at a magazine.

It was reading your posts in early 2005 that got me back in the game.  Then just three weeks ago, you delivered the fantastic news to me that I would be a weekend writer here on my favorite blog.  

You've been an inspiration and a model.  I'm sorry to see you leave MyDD, but I can't wait to see your new site.  Thanks for everything and best of luck.  I can't wait to become a regular at your new blog.


Youth to Power
by Mike Connery on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:10:49 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

All the best Chris, its been a pleasure.  Thanks for all you hard work for the party and the grassroots wile here; I know it continues elsewhere.  You're the man!


Hoosiers for Hill -- Barack Obama
by BWasikIUgrad on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:13:10 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Best of luck Chris.  It's good to see another Liverpool kid doing well.


Voter Genome Project
by Ron Turiello on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:16:30 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Job well done, Chris. Will see you at the new site.


by Benstrader on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:19:15 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Best wishes Chris.  I will be looking for your new site.  Just too many good places to visit.  However I value your analysis and insight.

Regards to those who are staying with MyDD.  I know this will continue to challenge our thinking and still will be a must see place to visit.

Good luck all of you.


I am an Edwards Democrat. Visit EENR blog for Progressives
by pioneer111 on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:19:41 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

no! what will we all do without Chris Bowers blogging at Mydd? hmm, i guess read his new site!

Anyhow, for whatever it's worth, your blogging has kept an active reader-base including myself, and I believe has heavily influenced both the blogosphere world of politics and the beltway line of politics as well ("Blogger Chris Bowers at MyDD perhaps is the best example of how clueless some bloggers really are about politics." - Stuart Rothenberg), included being the 2nd most quoted liberal blog after dailykos. Not to mention your insight and analysis were always top-of-the-pack (Jonathan has to pick up the slack now, I guess). And the "Use It Or Lose It" Campaign, masterminded and pushed by you, may well have netted us a couple house seats in the 2006 election.

The Democratic blogosphere has lost a powerful writer... but I wish for the best in your future.


by KainIIIC on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:23:26 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

One of the things that many people don't realize is just how much dogged, relentless work blogging takes.

To blog in the way that Chris and Matt and Jerome and Jonathan have done here at MyDD takes sustained, intensive effort: any summation of your work on MyDD , Chris, should point out just what a herculean task you undertook.  The links above prove that point.

One of the themes you and Matt have always talked about is sustainability in blogging. I wish you luck with that in your new endeavour and also hope, for the sake of this venue, that MyDD can fill your shoes...albeit in a necessarily new way.

Thanks for your writing and your advocacy, Chris.  We will keep reading your stuff...I think you can be very sure of that.

Thanks,
paul
kid oakland


k/o: politics and local blogs
by kid oakland on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:25:11 PM EST

Ahem... (none / 0)


Shouldn't you be causing trouble over at the Great Orange Satan?

-


by Bill in Portland ME on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:45:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Have really appreciated your talents here on MyDD, Chris, and I look forward to seeing your work in the new venue.


by Books Alive on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:26:51 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

  Wow.  I'll really miss your writing.  Chris, you are much too intelligent and innovative to be a partisan hack.  I too want a progressive America.  I just hope that you won't move too far away from covering important and worthy progressive candidates.  Government is not the only way to make social change, but it is one of the most effective.


Jim Oberweis
by cilerder86 on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:29:29 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

good luck in your new venture Chris, you will be missed, especially your polling posts....


Obama! because 51% isn't enough!
by nevadadem on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:31:03 PM EST

Don't underestimate your effect (none / 0)

on the netroots and the effect you had in the changes accomplished in the '06 elections.

You are definitely one of the heroes of '06!

I'm sure you will do more of the same on your new project in '08.  Good Luck!


by magster on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:37:03 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (3.00 / 2)

Chris,

Thanks, sincere thanks, for everything you've done here to bring back progressive politics in this country. I don't want to sound all schmaltzy here, but what the hell -- you are truly one of the truly brilliant people to come out of the netroots and I am sure you are going to keep making irreplaceable contributions to progressive ideas and politics in your new gig.


by tgeraghty on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:39:49 PM EST

Bowers... Bowers? Oh yeahhhh... (none / 0)

You showed up at my door once to sell me a vacuum cleaner, right?  The belt broke a week later but when I called your "customer service number" I got some lady asking me if I was horny and to press "1" if I wanted to be spanked.  That call cost me 86 dollars, young man.

I shall dog you 'til the end of your days.

Good day, sir.

I said...GOD DAY, SIR.

-


by Bill in Portland ME on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:42:13 PM EST

top-rated diary at dkos about this (none / 0)

FYI:

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/6/15/ 134238/766


end the occupation of Iraq
by aip on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:47:54 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good Luck Chris. I'll take you at your word that you'll be around, so it's not really goodbye and I imagine that some of us will follow your next venture too. So see you at your next site. Thanks for all that you did here. I learned alot from you will likely continue to do so. Peace out.


It's an election, not an auction.
by cosbo on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:53:36 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Thanks Chris.  I'd say I"m going to miss you, but I won't because I'm just going to follow you over there and continue to follow your work as well as Matt's.  So Arrivederci and Ciao.  


by fred on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 03:58:05 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

I have no idea WHAT you are describing r.e. the new site- which is probably the highest order of compliment. Best of luck w. the trailblazing.


by sb on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:07:52 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck Chris and thanks for what you given to the   blogging community the last three years.  I've found a lot to think about in your posts.  

I can understand your desire to expand in new directions and look forward to seeing what your new site will bring.


by vbdietz on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:13:27 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Thanks for it all.  We look forward to reading and writing and building what's next.

PALANTE!


by Ruby K on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:14:24 PM EST

Chris Bowers has influenced us all! (none / 0)

All the best to Chris and Matt.  I became an active reader in the 204 election and you guys plus Jerome helped me keep my progressive sanity.  I know you will do great things down the road and that Jonathan will carry on here at MYDD.


by politics64 on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:14:33 PM EST

Play muffled drums (none / 0)


Hey. The url might change but  ever since I've got tabbed browsing, I keep track of two or three sites at a time ....still

Play muffled drums.


by Trey Rentz on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:20:44 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Chris -- thanks for all you've done. You can count on me to read the new site!


Can It Happen Here?
by janinsanfran on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:33:23 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Wow, I don't really know what to say.  If it weren't for your and Matt's writing, I would never have started blogging.  MyDD is still the first website I read every morning.


Check out my blog, Capital Viewpoint
by whogotthegravy on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:35:08 PM EST

All the best in all your endeavors, Chris! (none / 0)

Eventhough we've had a few differences of opinion in the past, I have always respected you and acknowledged several outstanding contributions you have made towards the progressive netroots movement.

You've certainly earned kudos worthy of a hero.

Best wishes to you in the new path and future ones. Cheers!

ps: I also recall your promoting my first diary at myDD from June/July 2005, in an FP story. Thanks for that welcome!


by NuevoLiberal on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 04:50:36 PM EST

Best of luck to Matt as well (none / 0)


by NuevoLiberal on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 06:15:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Best of luck to Matt as well (3.00 / 1)

I'll piggy-back on your comment to note that along with my good wishes for Chris I also wish Matt the best. I've been waiting for his own GBCW but it hasn't shown up yet. Matt tends to rile people up a little more often but he's going to leave his own big hole here as well.
by Curt Matlock on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 09:31:43 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Congratulations (none / 0)

Glad you're making the leap, though of course you'll be missed.  This site, and especially what you and Matt have done with it, is entirely responsible for making me an active blogger.  While I make no claim that anyone else would've missed me, it's been tremendously rewarding for me, and I'll always appreciate that.


by Lucas O'Connor on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 05:00:23 PM EST

Best Wishes (none / 0)

Chris, you and Matt will always be required reading. Good luck in the new endeavor and thanks for all that you do.


by Steve in Sacto on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 05:11:23 PM EST

Great work, Chris (none / 0)

You'll always be one of the heroes of 2006.

Look forward to the new website.

Donna Darko


--donna darko. I don't read or respond to comments. There's too much hate and misogyny here.
by nonwhiteperson on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 05:15:05 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

But, you're not leaving, so it's not Good Bye, right?  It's so long, Chris, we'll see you around.


by Bluesee on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 05:22:01 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Chris, you're awesome.  

I look forward to reading the new site.  


by Neil the Ethical Werewolf on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 06:13:15 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Chris, I'll miss your numbers crunching and other serious in depth research and writing. Best of luck with your new project. I'll be checking it out.


by Quinton on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 06:22:42 PM EST

Good luck, Chris, and thanks (none / 0)

  I'm sad to see you leave MyDD, but happy to hear you'll just be a mouse click away.

  Thank you for three years of some of the most level-headed, rational, and sometimes inspirational commentary and analysis I've ever had the pleasure to read in the blogosphere. You and Matt had a great good cop/bad cop routine that gave MyDD a special dedicated tab on my browser.

  And thank you for answering every one of the emails I occasionally sent you on side-issues, and for taking the time to talk and listen to me at the Mark Warner party at last year's Yearly Kos. You were tired and needed a beer, and you still stopped and graciously gave me some good advice about running for my local Central Committee -- which I did and am now a member of, giving progressives a foothold in Frederick County, Maryland.

  I see this as a sad day for MyDD at the micro level, but as a sign that the progressive blogosphere is maturing to the point that you and Matt have built up your own brand, and feel comfortable taking it to the next level.

  MyDD will miss you, but with Jerome, Jonathan, Nancy and others, it remains in good hands.

  Godspeed!  


by Master Jack on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 06:29:13 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Best of luck, Chris. I found this site when someone on DU told me you had posted a chart very similar to what I was working with, numbers evaluating statewide voting tendencies compared to the nation itself. I came over here and sure enough, there it was. You predictably had a much more elegant name, partisan index, than I had come up with beginning in '96.

I didn't always agree with everything here, primarily the understatement of situational influence from cycle to cycle, but overall it has been the best political site for several years, and I've sampled dozens and dozens.


by Gary Kilbride on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 06:30:10 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

It will be good to see something new.


by sterra on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 06:34:22 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Good luck on your new project, Chris. I'll read your stuff wherever it's posted online.


by PsiFighter37 on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 07:18:16 PM EST

Re: The Best Days Of My Life (none / 0)

Blow a tube Chris and Matt. (That's a phrase I recently coined to replace break a leg in the blogosphere.)
I look forward to hearing about your new adventure.
by greenchiledem on Fri Jun 15, 2007 at 07:44:32 PM EST

Thanks Chris (none / 0)

Sometimes change is good. Especially when you're low on dough :)


Titles are important: Convicted Felon Lewis "Scooter" Libby
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