When we originally conceived "Sweet Victories" as a feature on our website, Bush had just been re-elected, and the progressive community was deeply deflated. The idea was to chronicle progressive triumphs--electoral victories, successful organizing efforts, protests and boycotts, the launching of new ideas, new organizations and initiatives. We hoped these stories would bring attention to what is too often off the mainstream media radar screen, and also maintain a sense of hope and inspiration in a dark time. A year later, much has changed: The attempt to destroy Social Security has been blocked, the movement for withdrawal from Iraq has growing public support and many local, statewide and national victories have been won. Here is a look back at some of the year's sweetest victories.

Electoral Reform

Portland, Oregon, became the first city in the country to approve full public financing of elections. Connecticut passed the strongest campaign finance reform bill in the United States, banning contributions from lobbyists and state contractors. In addition, the legislation created a publicly funded election system encompassing statewide races, including House and Senate seats.

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