Virginia State Democratic Convention - Roanoke, VA - June 4-5, 2004
Virginia's 2004 Democratic Convention was a great success - 1200 delegates from across the Commonwealth and many visitors packed the Convention Hall at the Hotel Roanoke. The crowd was energized by the many rousing speeches leading to Max Cleland's inspiring words which prompted several standing ovations.
Most encouraging of all was the consensus opinion that we could win Virginia for John Kerry this year. In addition to assuring a Democrat in the White House, this would turn Virginia into a swing state - making the Old Dominion crucial in future political contests. The Kerry campaign has recently advertised in Virginia and plans to contest the state all the way.
Friday evening the Dean Campaign workers gathered to make plans for continuing their grassroots efforts across the Commonwealth, it was wonderful to see so many Dean supporters again. Dave Rackmales of Franklin County hosted the event. Jennifer Boysko (Falls Church), Donna Goings (Charlottesville), Elaine Owens (Roanoke), and Maura Keaney (Arlington) spoke of the work being done around the state.
We also heard from Congressman Bobby Scott who led the Dean effort in Virginia, his words were a powerful criticism of the Bush administration. VA Democratic Party Chairman Kerry Donley told everyone he was an early Dean supporter and was grateful for the energizing of the grassroots and strengthening the Democratic message in this year's primaries. Lt. Governor Tim Kaine also thanked the Dean supporters for what they had done and what they were still doing for Democracy in Virginia.
After the Dean meeting, a Unity Meetup was held to welcome all who have participated in any Meetups to thank them for their work and energize them for the campaigns of 2004 and 2005 in Virginia. The room was filled well beyond capacity and into the hall as Larry Framme, Kerry Donley, and Tim Kaine marveled at seeing so many grassroots activists in one place. The meeting turned into an energetic rally as several politicians spoke to the excited audience.
Hospitality Suites were active throughout the Hotel late into the evening. They were hosted by Congressman Bobby Scott, State Senator Creigh Deeds, State Senator John Edwards, State Delegate Chap Peterson, Democracy for Virginia (Dean), the Wesley Clark Campaign, and others.
The great photos are courtesy of Aaron Mahler.
For more coverage of the convention see -
REFLECTIONS ON THE CONVENTION - THE MORNING SESSION
AFTERNOON SESSION
KEYNOTE SPEAKER, MAX CLELAND
Photographs from the 2004 VA State Democratic Convention in Roanoke