by Anita Martin

Governor Culver arrived with his son, John. After a quick introduction and wave to the delegates, John left the stage with a smile and a wave. Governor Culver thanked  everyone for the work they are doing at all levels during this campaign year.

Other speakers were Representative Boswell and Senator  Harkin. Both gave inspiring speeches to get out the vote in this off year, and replace Senator Grassley.  It is important to keep the current momentum in Washington D. C. moving forward.

Additional visits by U.S. Senate candidates Roxanne Conlin and Tom Fiegen brought life to the delegates. Conlin was exuberant and fired up the  crowd of 138 of the third district’s base. Fiegen brought a message of fiscal responsibility and gave us this quote, “Play to win and protect your vulnerable teammates.”  He is a strong advocate for those hurt by the previous administration’s fiscal irresponsibility.

Francis Thicke, candidate for U. S . Secretary of Agriculture made a brief statement and  made sure to direct us to his website for additional information. His background and experience would be a definite asset to Iowa and the nation, when it comes to agricultural issues and ideas.

The third congressional district had one youth delegate, Charlie Comfort, from Oskaloosa. He gave a rousing Youth Report from the podium, because as he said, he plans to be at the podium in 2032 seeking support from his Iowa constituents for his presidential campaign. Needless to say, Charlie received a supportive round of applause at this time!

During one of the vote count breaks at 3:25 pm, the committee shared a video from U.S. Senate candidate, Bob Krause. I was a bit disappointed that this was not shown earlier, as many of the delegates left during the lunch break. When I returned to the meeting room,  Secretary of State, Mike Mauro was speaking to the audience. Several people were still in the restaurant eating, and many more had already left the convention. I have no idea what the final number was for the delegates who stayed the course, but is was far less than I expected.

It had been ten years since I attended a District Convention. Not much has changed, but it was noted that many of the presiding committee people were Polk County residents.

Marion County was not represented at all, because our information was filed without forwarding a list of our committee volunteers. Two of our people were forwarded to the state convention committees; a step in the right direction.

All in all, the day was informative, interesting when debating platform issues, and tedious waiting for the vote count for District Central Committee. We made it through and adjourned at 4:52 pm.  Another work day!

Submitted by
Anita Martin
Marion County Democrats Central Committee Chair

Visit the website of Iowa Democrats Third Congressional District.