Washington Republicans find common ground

(Trying out Blogger on my iPhone! Typing on tiny keyboard may cure me of wordiness.) (Or just give me tired fingers.)

Ron Paul and Mitt Romney supporters at the WA Republican State Convention were United in dissatisfaction with Obama's failed presidency this weekend.

There were spirited shouting and vocal demonstrations on day one, showing the passion for each side's candidate. I wondered if we'd suffer in November as a result of infighting. But it seems the same thing that brought a record 50,000 people to the precinct caucuses is working to unite us in spite of differences. In fact, on an individual level people were courteous and good-humored.

In the long process (it's 3 pm and we're still voting on delegates and electors) I think all sides are being represented. Deliberate delaying tactics (SO annoying) are not as evident as in other settings. Folks have a chance to be heard.

Much to my surprise, I thoroughly enjoyed hearing dozens of people speak briefly on their candidacy for only a few at-large slots to the National Convention. It's taken hours even though each was limited to 30 seconds at the mic.

We have some powerfully good speakers in our midst, many of them fairly new to the political process.

Women and minorities were well-represented among delegates on the floor, and those seeking slots at the National.

Looks really good for our future... and we haven't even started on the platform yet! I'm interested to see if it's a big enough umbrella for the passionate opinions represented here today. More when I find out.

In the meantime, Quotable moments from the Washington State Republican Convention in Tacoma:

Convention Chair Kirby Wilbur complimented the Ron Paul and Mitt Romney delegates for their civility, adding, "there's more that unites us than divides us." BIG Standing ovation from the whole room!

"We've got to unite to take back out country," Wilbur said. "...Everyone brings something to the table."

"I've made up my mind not to be impatient." --Overheard comment by a delegate, while we heard from dozens of candidates for at-large National Convention delegate slots.

"The data is in: the president of the United States is a failure...It's science, so you can't argue with it." The crowd applauded and shouted its approval of this great line from David Shemwell, a scientist running for alternate to the National Convention.

More later!