Dear HBAGTA Member:
I received several calls today from members who are concerned about a recent email sent to NAHB members from Bob Nielsen and Greg Ugalde Re: Join me in Supporting Builders for Obama. It appeared to be "endorsed" by NAHB and that was one issue. The more serious concern was how this personal information was obtained.
Let me assure you that the source was neither your local HBAGTA nor state association, MAHB. In consultation with officials of NAHB, I learned that these email addresses were obtained through databases other than our official WMS records; but they did, in fact, originate with NAHB.
To help you understand NAHB's role in this, I'd like to explain what I have learned. In March, 2007, NAHB's president, Brian Catalde, sent a letter to all members of NAHB. In it he noted, " . . . the nominees for the office of President of the United States will be established by each of the major political parties. As a result, it is imperative our industry immediately begin constructive dialogue with these candidates to ensure that housing issues stay at the forefront of the political debate." Further, he stated, "We are a member driven organization. Through the strength of our members we can greatly impact the choice for the next President of the United States. NAHB and its members are dedicated to providing safe, decent, and affordable housing to all Americans. Let's make sure our next President has the same goal."
"As part of this process, over the next 18 months you may receive emails and phone calls from fellow NAHB members asking you to support Presidential candidates . . . Please take the time to consider the information and requests from your fellow members, keeping in mind that NAHB does NOT endorse any candidate and will offer equal time and resources to all candidates. Additionally, each email communication from a fellow member, regarding a Presidential candidate, will contain a means to opt out of further emails pertaining to that candidate."
NAHB officials told me today that supporters of Senator Chris Dodd and Former Governor Mitt Romney had also sent communication to the NAHB members requesting support. It seems that the timing of this most recent communication "Builders for Obama" triggered a stronger response, perhaps because it is now so close to the election. I was assured that NAHB did not intend to be "intrusive nor misuse NAHB's resources." Further, they noted that "NAHB did not release your email address to anyone-even a current member of the NAHB Leadership Team - but rather handled this first communication on behalf of Bob Nielsen and Greg Ugalde in support of the Obama campaign." They handled the initial outreach as part of NAHB's 2008 Presidential Program Opportunity. A complete copy of Mr. Catalde's letter is available on our website. If I can be of further assistance in clarifying this matter or be a conduit for your concerns, please contact me at your convenience. Also, please use the "opt out" option provided should you not wish to receive further notices regarding this candidate. Sincerely, 
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