Labor Day at the Convention

Labor Day at the Convention

I remember going door to door in the snow and rain last winter, collecting signatures in order to get on the ballot as an Obama delegate. Now, I’m here as a delegate. It is a political wonks dream: to be able to represent your congressional district, and get to vote for the re-nomination of the president.

The Charlotte airport was full of helpful volunteers, and there was a buzz of energy and excitement in the arriving delegates. Near the convention center there are many events to attend. Last night we were at the Uptown Mint Museum for a reception held jointly by Illinois, Delaware, Hawaii, Ohio and PA. Entertainment was provided by music, dance, and cheerleading groups. The most fascinating museum exhibit was the enormous collection of pins and brooches worn by former Secretary of State Madeline Albright. One was “Breaking the Glass Ceiling” a shattered piece of ceiling glass on top of a brooch. A different exhibit was of a snake brooch she wore after Saddam Husseins’ poet in residence called her an “unparalleled serpent. A Secretary of State with both style and a sense of humor!

Today was Carolina Fest, a street fair filling the many blocks around the convention center. There were many booths of artwork, political memorabilia, and food. I walked with a young man who wants to get his picture taken with someone from every state in America, and the territories as well! He approached a man from Wisconsin, who turned out to be the Majority Leader of the State Senate, and was in the thick of the controversies in his state.

We were star-struck as we kept seeing famous faces. Jesse Jackson and DNC ChairDebbie Wasserman Shultz were in the convention center, followed by a coterie of press and amateur photographers. We got the chance to speak with Congressman John Lewis, icon of the civil rights movement. He is warm, approachable, and completely unpretentious. The PA reception tonight included many elected officials, including former Governor Rendell and Senator Casey. Montgomery County attendees included Commissioners Leslie Richards and Josh Shapiro, and State Senator Daylin Leach.

My favorite moment of the day was talking with two of Philadelphia’s finest in uniform on the street. Here we are in Charlotte, chatting about the Eagles and Phillies with two Philly police who are there to help out with security!

I have many pictures to share but will await the help of a young colleague to make sure I post them properly. They include pictures of the police, Jesse Jackson, John Lewis, and Debbie Wasserman Shultz, as well as this author dressed up in convention gear.

Stay tuned!