DENVER—Organizers of the state Democratic convention in Colorado Springs are expecting a record turnout as the party elects its delegates to attend the national convention in August.
“People want to be a part of this,” said Pat Waak, Democratic state chairwoman.
Party officials said they expect at least 10,000 people will attend the May 17 state convention at the World Arena in Colorado Springs. That number would be double the number of attendees at the state convention in Pueblo 2004, the last presidential-election year, officials said.
The arena has the capacity to accommodate 9,000 people but a tent will be placed outside for those who can’t get in, said Sherry Jackson, executive director of the state Democratic Party.
World Arena general manager Dot Lischick said more security staff and food vendors will be hired for the event.
“A rock concert is a lot easier than this,” she said. “This is like a wedding.”
Waak credits the expected high turnout to the anticipation of the historic nomination of the first African-American candidate or first woman candidate for president. She also said people are frustrated over the Iraq war, the economy and gas prices and want to see a change.
On the Republican side, officials are also expecting a higher-than-average turnout at their state convention in Broomfield on May 31. Republican state Party Chairman Dick Wadhams said about 6,000 delegates will attend their convention.
———
Information from: The Denver Post,
