Arriving at the DNC in Charlotte, NC . . .
All of my life, I’ve watched the conventions and wondered how people become delegates. Since I’m a new delegate, it might be of interest to learn how I became a delegate.
I honestly don’t know how it works in the Republican Party; however, in the Democratic Party, we submit our names to the state party with a brief statement explaining why we want to serve as a delegate. Once the party verifies that you are a registered Democrat, they place your name on the ballot for your Congressional District. Then on a Sunday afternoon last spring, friends from our Congressional District came to a caucus and voted—for four women and four men. Additionally, the person who came in ninth was selected as an alternate.
We have a great group of delegates who are totally focused on re-electing President Obama and Vice-President Biden.
One of our delegates created a great button for our 33rd delegation—with graphics representing our Congressional District.
I flew into Charlotte, NC on Saturday afternoon—through a very thick layer of clouds. I came early to participate in the many interesting meetings, focus groups, and events. These start on Sunday and continue throughout the convention. The issues of interest to me include education, women’s rights and health issues, and the environment.
Arriving in Charlotte I was at once pleasantly surprised by the effusive Southern hospitality from the people of Charlotte and all of the campaign volunteers. They have reached out to all of us to answer questions, make suggestions for restaurants, and provide directions.
Having spent a lifetime watching the RNC and DNC conventions, I confess that I am very excited and sincerely honored to represent my Congressional District at the Democratic National Convention this year. I am ready to learn and participate in a process that is democratic within an organization that is so representative of all America.
Everyone can watch the convention on TV and online. This and subsequent posts will attempt to enhance your understanding of the convention by sharing some things that won’t be on TV.
