WA State Democratic Convention: Day Two, Part Three

The Convention has resumed, and the tedious and messy process of voting on this, that and the other has resumed as well. Then again when you get 1300 people in a room you will have motions, points of procedure and points of order, votes and whatnot. Lt. Gov. Brad Owen is chairing. That's what this is about.

The hot issue of debate is on approving nominations for statewide offices. This is due to the nature of the new "top two" primary system, and the Party's desire to place an official Democratic Party stamp of approval on candidates. A motion has been made and passed to deal with this as a slate of candidates instead of one by one to expedite the process.

As in the caucuses there is a relatively large number of African-American delegates, and many of them are very involved in the debates.

Another observation: it seems that wherever I sit someone wants to stand between me and my view of the large screens or the podium - people, please sit down!

We're still debating voting for the slate. Pelz reminds us all of the candidates in the slate are running unopposed within the Party. With a quick flourish he conducts a vote and the slate passes overwhelmingly.

The candidates are now being given a few minutes to speak. First up Peter Goldmark, candidate for Commissioner of Public Lands. Goldmark is making the case that the incumbent Doug Sutherland is looking out for special interests instead of our public lands and the legacy we leave to future generations.

Next, Jason Osgood, for Secretary of State. It is clear that people are just discovering who he is. His speech seems geared to ensure Democrats of his own Democratic credentials. This is his first speech to such a crowd and it is showing, but the crowd is very supportive and give him a standing ovation, taken by his courage and authenticity, and in appreciation of his message.

The next speaker is Jim McIntire, running for State Treasurer. His speech is preceded by the playing of the beginning of Pink Floyd's Money, some campaign theatrics that give an indication of how much campaigning he has and will be doing. This is a seat held currently by Democrat Mike Murphy. Also running as a Democrat for the position is ChangMook Sohn who isn't present to speak, so now we vote on one or the other.

John Ladenburg also approaches the podium for his speech to Chuck Berry singing Johnny B. Goode. The candidate for Attorney General asking for support to be the "people's" lawyer.

Election of presidential electors is next on the agenda which is a good time for me to post this entry.