My first convention was in El Paso!

I’ve been to every Texas Democratic Party Convention since 1992 (or 1994). They are fun, energizing, and informative. You can find all the information for the convention at the Texas Democratic Party website texasdemocraticconvention.com. You can also sign up to be a delegate. Here is a guide for those who have never attended before.

Hotel
Book early. If you can try reserving in the host hotel, the Marriott. It’s were all the action is at. Check this website for the hotels the TDP has reserved.

Become a Delegate to the State Convention
Attend the county convention if you can. It is on March 23, Saturday. You can find information about the Harris County Convention here. Sign up to be a delegate to the State Convention. If you cannot attend the County Convention you can still be a delegate to the State. Contact your county chair.

General Schedule.
Thursday is the kickoff party.
Friday is the State Democratic Executive Committee (SDEC) meeting in the morning. Various Caucus and training meetings will take place. Speeches by elected officials will take place at night.
Saturday the Congressional District Delegates will convene and elected delegates to the National Convention. There will be more speeches Saturday night. The convention ends on Saturday evening but the parties will continue.

Kick Off Party
Thursday evening is the kickoff party of the convention. I always find it to be fun. It is a fundraiser so they will have a little food and a cash bar. Usually there is a speaker or more. It’s a good way to mingle with other like minded people. Plan for dinner before or after. Lots of elected officials usually attend this party.

Check in
You will find the check in desk at the convention center. I believe we will be checking in by congressional district this year. Find your district, and check in. You will receive a ballot for electing delegates to the National Convention. You will also receive a delegate badge, then find an organization that sells a lanyard and plastic holder. They usually sell them for a few dollars. You will also receive a tote bag with a program for the weekend.

Party Business
The State Democratic Executive Committee meets on Friday. The meeting is open if you care to attend. You will get an idea of what the party does at the SDEC meetings. (hint: It’s boring)

Lady Bird Breakfast
Early in the morning on Saturday is another fundraiser. Personally I would skip it especially if you had a late night on Friday.

Petitions
Do yourself and everyone else a favor. Don’t sign any petitions to get a resolution on the floor of the convention. If a resolution is important it will go through the proper channels for resolution. Fringe groups use this tactic to get controversial subjects brought to the floor for debate and voting. It’s usually a long, drawn out process, which results in a hill of beans. I am sure there will be something concerning the Israeli/Gaza situation.

Parties and hospitality suites
Many organizations will hold parties or hospitality suites with food and drinks. Find one that interests you and go meet like minded people. The Young Democrats usually put on a good event as well as the LGBTQ organization. Elected officials, counties, cities, and others will host at a suite in a hotel or at a local bar. Look for invitations in your convention bag or advertisements.

Caucuses and training
On Friday and Saturday there will be a number of organizations that will meet up. In the past I have been disappointed because the entire 2 hours are almost taken over by candidates wanting to talk. Some orgs put the candidates at the end of business. Some are very informal and others actually conduct business of electing leadership etc. Find one and attend. I personally like the Hispanic Caucuses (yes there are multiple) and the Gun Safety Caucus. There will also be training for VAN, how to run a campaign, etc. Again find one and attend.

Exhibits
Bring some money! There will be an Exhibit Hall area selling t-shirts, lanyards, etc as well as informational booths. Many years ago I had a booth concerning consumer issues. It was a very fun way to talk with people about issues concerning new home constructions, electricity, and home insurance.

Mexico
Mexico is a short walk across the bridge. You can enjoy great food, drinks and shopping. Bring your passport, stay with a group, and verify with the State Department on travel recommendations.

Enjoy the convention! Look for me at the bar!