Iowa Democrats and delegates made their way to Chicago on Sunday, getting ready for the week-long Democratic National Convention.
The state party has had a busy month, with a noticeable increase in enthusiasm from those eager to assist with campaigning following the change in leadership at the top of the ticket. Democrats are optimistic that this heightened excitement will translate into strong voter turnout.
“I have a strong belief that this scenario will unfold due to the remarkable surge in the number of volunteers stepping forward,” expressed State Senator Janice Weiner, a Democrat representing District 45 in Iowa City. Senator Weiner, who is also a delegate at the convention, added, “It’s truly astonishing to witness the multitude of candidates we have successfully recruited for both the House and Senate seats at the state level. The enthusiasm is palpable when you engage with our dedicated volunteers and listen to the sentiments of the people we meet during door-to-door campaigns.”
The Chair of the Iowa Democrats emphasized several important policy points that the state party hopes to address during the week. Of particular interest are the points that she wants Vice President Kamala Harris to focus on during her address.
Rita Hart expressed her belief that both candidates have been attentive and responsive to the concerns of ordinary Americans, including Iowans. She emphasized the importance of discussing the economy and the challenges people face in terms of the cost of living.
Hart addressed the ongoing concerns surrounding the U.S. Southern border, acknowledging that the Vice President has faced criticism for the increasing numbers witnessed in that region in recent years.
“They have faced significant criticism regarding border issues. This is a matter of great importance to the people of Iowa. Immigration holds a special significance for us because our state has a high demand for labor, with numerous job openings. Additionally, Iowa has greatly benefited from immigration in the past.”
Sen. Weiner also touched upon the issue of reclaiming the rights that were unjustly taken away from them in recent weeks, specifically referring to the new abortion law in the state.
One delegate who visited Chicago expressed high expectations for the week ahead. Despite being in the city for a mere 24 hours, he could already sense the palpable excitement in the air.
C.J. Petersen expressed great enthusiasm about their first vote in 2008. At that time, they were a Republican and voted against President Biden. However, as time went on, C.J. Petersen’s political views shifted. They became a delegate for President Biden and now, they are supporting Vice President Harris as she takes the reins. C.J. Petersen finds this experience to be incredibly surreal and exciting.
They all expressed their admiration for Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as the running mate, emphasizing that his selection would ensure the representation of Midwestern values on the ticket.
