The view from DemNotes

WE'VE MOVED! Democratic Convention Watch is now at http://www.DemocraticConventionWatch.com

All year I've been getting great stuff from DemNotes, the blog of Dan Slater, Colorado Democratic State Party First Vice Chair, and a vice-chair of the Denver Host Committee. Slater was instrumental in getting Denver's bid off the ground. Here are some of his thoughts on winning the convention:

This has not come easy. For well over a year now, we have been working hard to present Denver as the best choice, both politically and logistically.

In the Summer of 2005, during a Q&A session with Governor Dean, Denver City Councilwoman Elbra Wedgeworth urged Governor Dean to consider Denver as the site of the 2008 convention. Through the summer and fall, there was a lot of talk about what a great idea that would be in social circles around Colorado. I set up a meeting on October 14, 2005 with Mayor Hickenlooper and Councilwoman Wedgeworth. From that point forward, with the Mayor’s support and blessing, we shot out of the gate with a great group of Denver’s civic leaders committed to bringing the world to Denver in 2008.

Some of the “old guard” in the Democratic Party said we couldn’t do it. They said it was a waste of time to try. But we didn’t listen, and we fought hard, overcoming obstacle after obstacle to show America that we could do this.

Dan's been a great friend to this blog, providing encouragement and lots of links. I just want to specifically congratulate him on this great accomplishment, and look forward to Denver putting on a great convention. Not that I won't comment on things here or there...