WA State Democratic Convention: Day Two, Part One

An early morning rise to another clear blue sky day. The first event was the Congressional Breakfast, emceed by Darcy Burner, and featuring a recorded message by Jay Inslee (unable to attend in person so he could be present at his son's graduation), and speeches by George Fearing running against Doc Hastings in the 4th, Mark Mays running against "perky" Cathy McMorris-Rodgers in the 5th, and Congressman Jim McDermott, representing the 7th. The clear theme was that these once Democratic eastern Washington districts can again become Democratic, and a big wave year such as this one is shaping up to be is a great opportunity Democrats must seize.

Breakfast was fine, although it took an awful long time for them to serve tea to those of us who don't drink coffee.

The Convention Call to Order was a little behind schedule, but this is admittedly a large crowd and large room, but we're now underway and following the usual opening proceedings, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels has introduced Patty Murray who is giving much the same address as she gave last night, although a little shorter.

The press table has been setup near the King County delegate seating area, but nobody thought to provide a power strip for the press to plug-in. David Postman is scratching his head about the oversight, and I don't blame him. Last night the issue was the lack of a table. With Kelly Steele's help they've found a new location for the press to sit that is close to power, but for now I'm running on battery and staying close to the King County delegate seats.

Now speaking is Michelle Gregoire, who is introducing her mother. Chris Gregoire is surrounded by a large group of sign waving supporters who provide a lively backdrop. Also with her is her husband Mike. The lights are off putting more focus on the stage and this has the look and feel of a campaign rally. A common theme is that this is an exciting time to be a Democrat and an historic time. She's talking about the Dalai Lama, and now Barack Obama. More chants of "Yes We Can!"

A number of speakers have recalled how John F. Kennedy inspired a nation in the 60's and spoken of Obama doing the same for this generation of Americans.

Now time to talk about her record. Low unemployment, a top state to do business in, one of the best managed states in the nation. Taking a lead in fighting Climate Change and improving the environment. More kids on health care. The toy safety bill. Increasing teacher's pay, reducing class sizes. The backdrop of all this are the effects of Dino Rossi's budget cuts before she took office. Gregoire is obviously going to run against Dino Rossi's record, while touting her own, and how she has had to undo the damage of his budget decisions, and the deficit she inherited. There is also a strong word about sending a message to the BIAW, and Rossi's 99% voting record in support of issues championed by the BIAW.

A good point regarding "change": we need the kind of change that results in a sustained paycheck, not just a single stimulus check.

A very strongly delivered speech by a confident and determined Governor, painting a stark contrast with Rossi and Republicans, and as has become her style, engaging with the audience to get them "fired up and ready to go". It ends with a standing ovation and a marching band playing as they pass between the standing delegates.