Elephant Safari

PRIMARY CONVENTIONS ARE AMERICAN DEMOCRACY

We here in America do not choose our leaders at the polls; we choose them in the Party Primary Conventions.

Primary Conventions are held, in Texas and most other states, at the end of the election: at 7:15 or as soon after the polls close as practicable. There are times when power plays can be dramatic between the factions or caucuses in support of gubernatorial or presidential candidates. It is the starting point of political operation.

To participate, merely show up as the polls close at the voting place with ideas to offer and support. Don't come late, because the thing is not usually very long. Anyone who voted in that party's primary in that precinct is allowed in until the convention is begun and the membership is closed. At times the doors are locked to prevent newcomers altering the power balance.

A chairman and secretary are chosen by vote, then business is called for. Caucuses are met to pick candidates and determine porportionment of power.

The Chair will usually head the majority faction.

Resolutions are entertained. The convention votes on positions to be introduced at the State Senatorial Convention, to be held two weeks later on Saturday.

Resolutions are statements of proposed law or policy the convention favors. Reproductive rights, 55 mph or 80 mph speed limits, impeachment of the resident, etc., are examples.

The precinct chooses people to represent it at the Senatorial Convention, some of which will go on to the State Convention, then National. I have attended several State conventions.

But it all begins at your precinct at 1915 (7:15 PM) on March 7, next week. Democracy is participatory.

Vote early and often, as the saying goes.

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