WA State Democratic Convention: Day One, Part Three

Time for the Convention Gala Banquet, and first up is State Party Chair Dwight Pelz. In his opening remarks he reaffirmed his pride in being a Democrat, and contrasted it with Dino Rossi's seeming shame in the name "Republican" (for good reason I might add), deciding instead to use the moniker "G.O.P." on the ballot, undoubtedly an attempt at rebranding the damaged Republican brand.

Meanwhile, the ballroom is full, with perhaps 1200 or more diners, and it is interesting that we're in the room the Republicans used a couple of weeks ago for their Convention business. The Democratic Convention will be conducted in the larger halls upstairs. A more cavernous space though.

My meal? A granola bar. I'm only in attendance through my press pass. I'll grab dinner later.

Next up Senator Patty Murray, introduced to a rousing ovation. Originally a Clinton supporter, Murray sang the praises of the presumptive nominee Barack Obama, which sounded like endorsement enough to these ears. I should mention that there has been absolutely no disharmony between Clinton and Obama supporters. As far as I can tell this Convention is being attended by Democrats, and that's what matters most. Murray made a nice mention about Tim Russert and a few audible gasps as some hear it for the first time. Political junkies cannot recognize his passing as anything but a major event. Murray also sang the praises of Washington Democratic candidates at many levels, including Peter Goldmark for Commissioner of Public Lands, John Ladenburg for Attorney General, and Darcy Burner for Congress.

Senator Murray is followed by Governor Chris Gregoire to an even louder standing ovation. This is an energized crowd and Gregoire is in good form, culminating in a party rallying crescendo. She's immensely well respected and liked in the Democratic Party, and looks ready to take the fight to her Republican opponent.

Dwight Pelz next introduces Lt. Gov. Mark Parkinson of Kansas, the guest speaker, and one time Kansas Republican Party Chair. His address starts out self-deprecating ("Being Lt. Gov. is not a big deal"). Can't say I disagree - when do we ever hear about what Washington Lt. Gov. Brad Owen is doing? However, his comments are powerful, regarding racial inequality and Kansas abolitionist John Brown, the need for bold change to deal with the tough issues facing the nation, and the need for Americans to come together across political ideologies, racial divides, economic boundaries and cultural differences. But his primary message was about what happened to the Republican Party in Kansas and how he and others fought against it until they eventually switched to become Democrats. A very good speech delivered in earnest but with humor. It is interesting to note that were Obama to choose Kansas Governor Sebelius as his running mate, Parkinson could become Governor. He looks like he could be a good one.

Following the banquet I made a brief stop at the Welcome Reception before heading back to my hotel. I'll leave the late night revelry to others given tomorrow will begin early with the Congressional Breakfast at 7am, followed by the Convention Call to Order at 9am.