  |
|
| Delegate Rebecca Otto sees no lurking divisiveness at Democratic National Convention in Denver |
|
|
| Wednesday, 27 August 2008 | |
|
by T.W. Budig ECM Capitol reporter If chasm exists between Obama and Clinton supporters at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, two local delegates aren’t sensing it. “No,” said Obama Delegate Wes Gadsden of Elk River. “One thing I’ve learned, especially with the Minnesota delegation, all the people are behind (Sen.) Barack (Obama) 100 percent — a 110 percent,” said Gadsden. “I’ve been talking with many other delegations, the Florida delegation, the Texas delegation, South Carolina and Florida, and those people all share the same sentiment,” he said. “And I’m thinking the others feel the same,” said Gadsden, State Auditor Rebecca Otto, a pledged delegate, senses the same unity, speaking Tuesday (Aug. 26) afternoon like Gadsden from Denver. “I really haven’t seen any of it,” said Otto of lurking divisiveness. Everyone getting along great “I’ve heard from lots of (Sen.) Hillary (Clinton) folks who’ve said they’re totally behind Obama,” she said. “That’s what I’ve seen so far,” she said. “Everyone (in the Minnesota delegation) is getting along great,” said Otto. Both Otto and Gadsden found the appearance of Massachusetts Sen. Edward Kennedy, suffering from brain cancer, one of the most moving moments on the first day of the convention on Monday. “Teddy Kennedy was the shocker — I didn’t expect him to speak at all,” said Gadsden. Otto agreed. “I didn’t think he was coming,” she said, adding the appearance was historical. “He was really wonderful to see,” said Otto. “He looked good. He sounded good,” she said of Kennedy, whose speech was laced to rhetorical references to his brother President Kennedy and the Camolet-era. Although some television pundits on Public Television opined that the first day of the convention lacked energy, Gadsden said they were mistaken. “I would say we want to make it higher than it was yesterday,” he opined. In talking with delegates from other states, Otto said she senses delegates view the convention as a turning point. A very historic time “People are thrilled,” she said. “They think this is a very historic time,” she said, adding the delegates represent diversity with a large number of them engaged in politics for the first time. “I think people have never felt more united — we’re in a very important time to change the direction of our country,” said Otto. Otto spent part of Tuesday afternoon on a bicycle tour of Denver along with Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak. She’s spotted a celebrity and heard that rockers Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen will be appearing at the convention. “I mean seriously, you wouldn’t believe this place,” she said of the first-rate treatment delegates are receiving. Gadsden, caught on a walk to the Pepsi Center, reported having a good time. “It’s hot as hell, but other than that, yes,” he said. “I’ve got lots of energy,” said Gadsden. “(But) there’s no time to party,” he said, mentioning early morning starts and long days. “Only the kids can do it,” he said, laughing. Social Bookmarking ...       |
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|