My Texas Caucus Experience
Well, it’s done and over. I’m sure the ads will die down and the candidates will move on to conquer their next state. It was an experience that I feel will push me to get more involved. There were all types of people there. People brought their kids and families. Despite not having a clue what we were to do, most were cool, discussing politics or making a new friend.
I was really bothered by the confusion and lack of information on how to caucus. It’s a simple process, but I had to visit a number of sites to get a clear understanding. Even then, it still wasn’t clear, but I knew I’d learn a lot at the caucus site. I talked with other friends of mine and it was much of the same thing. Long lines and confusion. But I have hopes that Texas will work out the kinks for next time.
To see people getting out to vote was a sight to behold. The parking lot was full and people were chanting for their candidate. This is what democracy is all about. We have it available, yet seem to take it for granted. Despite who wins, my hope is that people will still continue to be involved. Change is needed and we have the opportunity to make it happen.
March 5th, 2008 at 12:31 am
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March 6th, 2008 at 7:44 pm
Caucusing sucked! Latoya and I showed up at 8pm and waited around for 2 and a half hours in 30 degree temps to caucus. There were hundreds of people there ready to caucus but they started dropping like flies as the cold night wore on. Unfortunately, with a day of TAKS looming over us, we did as well. The best thing we could do was sign a petition for change to the whole process (or at least the facilities). At our location, we had 9 precints voting at one little 600 square foot location with little parking. You had people parking blocks away and walking to perform their civic duty. However, it was nice to see so many people out to let their voices be heard. I just hope it’s that way in November.
March 6th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
Joel, thanks for sharing your experience. That does sound bad. It took me about 3 hours to get done with the entire process. We had about 4 precincts at our location. I know a lot of others faced the same type of situation. I’ve heard people were writing and emailing Senator Royce West and Howard Dean urging them to change the process. Texas wasn’t ready to handle the turnout it received.
March 13th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
I have heard that they have stopped counting the Texas caucus votes is that true? If it is, how do you feel about it considering how much trouble you went to in order to vote. Do you want every last vote counted?
March 15th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
Televisiontraci, I hadn’t heard anything about stopping the counting. I have heard they have until Mar. 29th to get the numbers in. I would be disappointed if they didn’t get it right and stopped counting. I don’t understand why everyone was so surprised at the turnout. Texas didn’t do their job in making sure everything went smoother. We messed up as a state.
I’m also curious what will turn out with the Michigan and Florida delegates. Guess we’ll see soon. Thanks for your comments.