it looks like my e-mailed vote did the trick and helped tip the incredibly close election toward Obama, whose victory may largely be due to my efforts.

Don't think so? Well, look at this:



From: Barack Obama
Date: Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 7:47 AM
Subject: How this happened
To: Andrew Lederer


Andrew --

I'm about to head to Grant Park to talk to everyone gathered there, but I wanted to write to you first.

We just made history.

And I don't want you to forget how we did it.

You made history every single day during this campaign -- every day you knocked on doors, made a donation, or talked to your family, friends, and neighbors about why you believe it's time for change.

I want to thank all of you who gave your time, talent, and passion to this campaign.

We have a lot of work to do to get our country back on track, and I'll be in touch soon about what comes next.

But I want to be very clear about one thing...

All of this happened because of you.

Thank you,

Barack



As you can see, he took the time to write to me before even making his speech!

Meanwhile, the New York Board of Elections obviously hasn't gotten the memo and is still desperately trying not to accept reality:



From: NYSBOE INFO
Date: Tue, Nov 4, 2008 at 5:28 PM
Subject: Re: Here is my ballot --
To: "Andrew J. Lederer"


New York State does not accept email votes. A Notice to Voters with additional information is attached.

If you believe you are registered, you may go to the polls on Election Day and, if your name is in the poll book, cast your vote or, if your name is not in the poll book, show identification and ask to vote by affidavit (paper) ballot.


New York State Board of Elections
40 Steuben Street
Albany, NY 12207-2108



I, of course, quickly set them straight:



From: Andrew J. Lederer
Date: Wed, Nov 5, 2008 at 1:19 PM
Subject: Re: Here is my ballot --
To: NYSBOE INFO


As far as I'm concerned, the e-mail vote counts. If you do not add it to your official tally, you will be breaking the law -- the Constitution of the United States of America. And failing utterly at your task of enfranchising voters and running elections.

Not that I don't trust you, but please send confirmation that my vote has been added to the tally. Otherwise, I shall be forced to report you to the new president and I don't think he'll be too happy with you.

There are many potential consequences to breaking the law and the law you are threatening to break is the highest in the land. You may do jail time and then maybe not be able to vote.

I wouldn't want that to happen to anyone,'

Sincerely,
Andrew J. Lederer



That oughta put the fear of God in them.