Chip Roberson: "Illuminating" message from Denver

It was approaching noon on the first day of the convention, and the lobby of the Denver Sheraton was a microcosm of the larger convention.

People were coming and going, impromptu meetings were being held, aspiring politicians were working the crowds, TV crews were conducting interviews, bloggers were scanning for their next story and reporters were writing their reports.

The most significant event so far was the series of morning breakfast speeches. The headline was to be back-to-back speeches by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the one and only Sen. Hillary Clinton.

It turns out the New York delegation is the other group in our hotel, and Clinton apparently got detained with her constituents. California Democratic Party Chairman Art Torres did indicate she might join us for breakfast later in the week, and I’m really looking forward to hearing what she has to say.

Pelosi gave us a rousing welcome that stressed the importance of party unity as she contrasted the John McCain of today with the John McCain of four or eight years ago. Is he the senator willing to break ranks with his party as he has in the past or is he the presidential candidate who has turned to the right and embraced the policies of George W. Bush?

I believe we’re going to be hearing more of McCain vs. McCain comparison in the coming weeks. It looks like the Democratic Party may be trying to pin the flip-flopper badge on McCain and then ask the public if they want to take the gamble on which McCain will show up after the election.

Pelosi’s speech had its effect on me, so I will be curious to see if the message gets traction outside the party faithful.

Other California speakers included State Sen. Dean Florez, Lieutenant Governor John Garamendi, Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell, Controller John Chiang and Secretary of State Debra Bowen.

The two that stuck out in my mind were Garamendi for his dynamic speaking style and powerful message about the election and Bowen because she spoke about something dear to my heart, protection of the integrity of the voting process.

So far, three themes appear to be developing: building networks, defining messages and establishing unity. I must admit to a bit of wonder at how quickly these themes developed and how one builds upon the other.

When I first identified them, I didn’t realize the significance, but upon reflection, it makes sense. By strengthening and building relationships, we can share and craft a common message that will serve to build the bonds that unite the party.

I’m sure this is no coincidence. The party leaders want and need us to follow this process. I’m just surprised that just six hours into the convention, the message is so clear. For long-time convention-goers this may be old hat, but for a newcomer like me, it was illuminating.