2006 is the year of the Democratic Revolution -- a year that will be recorded in the annals of America as a U-turn from oblivion.

Sadly, we've come full circle -- once again finding ourselves fighting for our basic freedoms -- to establish our nation's commitment to the ideals of the founding fathers and the documents they authored.

Fortunately, we've just declared victory in a crucial battle -- one that likely saved our children and future generations from untold calamity. But as you all know, a revolution is neither won nor lost within the confines of a single battle. And as we've learned over the course of the last six years, success in a Revolutionary War does not guarantee freedom, liberty, and justice for eternity.

These things need constant nurturing and vigilant defense. But we all know that. That's why we're here.

In 1994, Newt Gingrich led the Republican Revolution, a victory that offered potential for great Republican accomplishments. Instead, they opted to abuse power and languish in arrogance.

Now the failed remnants of their lost potential has been erased from the slate of American hopes.

In 2006, we have been offered a similar opportunity.

It is our responsibility to ensure that we do not go the way of the Republican revolutionary.

It is our place to nurture and defend our progressive ideals. These, we believe, will bring our nation and our world to a more peaceful, healthy and prosperous place. One that offers our children the promise and potential we would've appreciated for ourselves.

So the revolution has begun but what we make of it will not be determined for generations to come.

But as I have come to know the elements of the greater Progressive Revolution, I am comforted and encouraged that we will not repeat the failings of past revolutionaries.

Indeed, we cannot.

Peace. Prosperity. Happiness:)