First of all, I want to say that this is my first post here, and I am pleased to join this conversation.
Something remarkable is happening. It’s happening all over the country, from Idaho to South Carolina, from Alabama to Iowa, and yesterday, I saw it happen here, first hand in my home state of Washington. Democrats showed up in record numbers to participate in the primary political system.
A short description of the reaction to my travels to two different caucus sites is simply, "Wow."
When I arrived at Kamiak High School in Mukilteo, a town in Snohomish County, north of Seattle, the place was already overflowing with caucus goers. The huge crowd made it almost impossible to navigate to the three rooms needed to accommodate everyone. The cafeteria, gymnasium and athletic room were packed with energized Washingtonians. It was inspiring.
In Seattle, at the 36th LD in Blaine School, not only had voters arrived to make their voices heard, but a group of 8th graders were there to watch democracy in action. And what a great lesson they learned from another huge turnout. I had the honor of spending some time with them and they reported to me, between hugs, that the entire day was "awesome."
I have heard similar reports from people who attended caucuses in Spokane, Wenatchee, and Tacoma. From all across the state, they told tales about record turnout, excited voters and amazing diversity.
I want to thank the presidential candidates from both sides of the aisle who visited Washington and shared their vision of the future. Their participation helped make this amazing day happen.
The results of our caucuses reflected our state's desire for lasting and positive change that will put our country back on track. I share that vision of hope and congratulate Senator Obama on his victory.
Last evening, Markos posted a diary about who had a great day in Washington. I’m glad he wrote about our remarkable caucuses, but I have a comment to make about his conclusion. It was a great day for the citizens of Washington State and, as a result the entire country...but, in the end, it was our democracy that had the best day of all.
Governor Chris Gregoire