Roundhouse on the Road Tour 3

Wednesday, September 24, 2008 – National Issues Hit Home

Incredible! That is the only way to describe the 2008 Democratic National Convention. This makes the 3rd convention I have attended and while they all have their own unique flavor, at the end of a long heated battle between two outstanding and historical candidates, this convention marked a true coming together.

Last night's events brought a close to the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Over 1,000 New Mexicans came to Denver for the final day of the convention. Governor Bill Richardson added to the list of impressive and dynamic speakers focused on rallying Democrats around a common political platform. He spoke about the American experience and received rounds of applause when he said that McCain may spend hundreds of dollars for his shoes but we will all pay for his flip flops.

It was standing room only at the EMILY's list reception as I sat on the floor in my suit with other women state and national leaders. I was surrounded by nearly 2,000 attendees, a virtual list of who's who in American women politics. EMILY's list is one of our nation's largest political networks and financial resource for Democratic women. We were all there to celebrate the power of women as candidates, contributors, and voters to ignite positive change.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008 - Convention Kick-off: Stirring Solidarity

The first night of the Convention painted an incredible representation of who the Democratic Party is. President Jimmy Carter, Senator Ted Kennedy, and Michelle Obama were powerhouses producing an indescribable hum of energy even before the speaking started.

During breakfast with the New Mexico delegation, I noticed Chair of the Democratic National Committee's Voting Rights Institute and well-known political analyst, Donna Brazile, having breakfast with the Virginia Delegation. I introduced myself and asked if she would join our table to share her thoughts about the Convention and Senator Obama. She graciously accepted and gave us a very inspiring speech about Senator Obama, the new hope he brings with his message of change and collaboration, and his opportunity considering the party election cycle.

The Democratic National Convention is an incredible opportunity to hear the Democratic Party's strongest and most established, and youngest up-and-comers discuss local and national policy issues, campaign for support, and speak in support of candidates working for positive change and practical solutions.