Caucus

Today Darin and participated in the Democratic Caucus here in Bremerton. It was a first for both of us and a really cool experience. It was especially exciting because Washington's results actually matter in this year’s primary/caucus process (at least for the Democratic Party).

We had the added bonus of meeting a few neighbors including a lady just down the street who we bought a chair from a couple of years ago at a garage sale. She owns an art gallery in Pioneer Square and commutes to Seattle 6 days a week. We pledged to work together to have a neighborhood BBQ this summer!

It was really great to have the opportunity to discuss the election with neighbors and to hear the reasons why people support a particular candidate. Some of you may be surprised to know that I actually didn't give a speech for my candidate - there were several people who did a great job expressing my thoughts so I had an excellent opportunity to sit back, observe and listen. I was alternately amazed by the level of research and careful thought of some compared to the purely emotionally based outbursts of others who tended to crumble when they were asked for specifics to back up their assertion. I really appreciate those who take their civic duty so seriously and carefully weigh the options.

It was also really interesting to see the diversity of the crowd in practically every category: race, gender, age etc. I was particularly impressed with the efforts of many elderly folks to participate. I saw several older folks that could have used their disabilities as an excuse to stay home but there they were actively participating in the process. There were also lots of younger children - who the rules do allow to participate in the conversation - only those who will be under the age of 18 at the time of the November election were unable to place their vote.

We've seen news reports indicating that turnout was at least twice that of 2004 but in our precinct it was closer to 4 times higher. It will be interesting to see the final counts.

We started the process with the pledge of allegiance which was a great reminder to me that we need to celebrate the fact that we do have the opportunity in this country to gather and discuss our opinions freely without fear of recrimination -except for perhaps from a few Republican family members :o)!

So - whoever you plan to vote for in November - VOTE!! It is a great privilege we have to live and participate in a Democracy.

Oh, and by the way - our candidate won by a landslide!! Feminist I may be but I draw the line at voting for Hilary. I am inspired by Obama's message of hope and unity (among other things) and think he has what it takes to eliminate some of the divisiveness that has characterized the last several presidencies.