Cara Wilder was selected to be a Montana delegate at the 2020 Democratic National Convention. She shares her thoughts, reflections, and experiences of participating in the first (and hopefully last) virtual DNC this week!
“Our Montana delegation is great and I’m having fun getting to know Democrats from across the state, albeit virtually. It’s been a connecting experience regardless of the lack of actual face time, and I’ve met some wonderfully bright and enthusiastic folks. Regarding our participation so far, our primary duty of course was casting our ballots for Biden (or Bernie) and for (or against) the platform, which we emailed in earlier this month. (I cast my ballot for Biden and for the platform as it stands.) We’ve also been asked to create videos of ourselves talking about the election and what supporting Joe and Kamala mean to us, saying the pledge of allegiance, and jumping for joy for Joe and Kamala’s nomination! I’ve submitted a couple videos, and even though it can feel a little awkward recording them – being alone in a room talking to a camera – I think the end result will enhance the convention and give it an inclusive, more lively feel. We’ve also been registering for various caucuses happening throughout the week via Zoom. I’ve registered for virtual meetings sponsored by the Council on the Environmental and Climate Crisis, the Women’s Caucus and the Poverty Caucus. We recently received a fun package of DNC goodies (“shwag bag”), including stickers, signs, pins, a Montana copper mug, candy, etc. Since we won’t be enjoying the traditional delegate breakfast together each day, we were each sent Montana pancake mix and jam!
The first (and hopefully last!) virtual convention is certainly historic, and I applaud those who are taking on the monumental challenge of organizing and implementing such a massive, multi-day event. It’s also multi-generational, of course, and a huge shout-out to the younger, more technically-savvy organizers and their patience with the rest of us!
I’ve wanted to attend a national convention for the past couple of decades, and of course I’m disappointed that Covid got in the way of truly experiencing this event. I’ve heard from others who’ve gone that the energy and excitement of being in the room can’t be beat, not to mention the thrill of meeting countless personal heroes. However, I do think the more sedate version of events this year will match the gravity of the moment. This election is the most consequential in my lifetime and shouldn’t be about spectacle and entertainment – on either side – but rather should reflect the state of our nation, which is desperate for leadership and unity. I believe a virtual convention will put the spotlight on the issues and speakers, rather than on crowds cheering and chanting, which is appropriate to this moment in history.
I couldn’t be more thrilled to cast a ballot for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on behalf of Gallatin County and Montana!”