by Joyce Parker
MARCH 10-12, 2023 This was my first time at a political event of this scope, I had no idea what to expect. The schedule became available later than I hoped, and included the expected range of trainings, orientations, regional meetings, committees, receptions and meals. Most everything was upstairs at the Convention Center. A few events were across the street at the Hyatt Regency.
We attended both the County Chairmen’s Association and the County Treasurer’s Association meetings. Each was an opportunity for County Committee officers to meet their counterparts from other counties, elect state wide officers and discuss issues. Both meetings were well attended.
County Chairmen’s Association meeting:
We couldn’t miss the New Delegate Orientation meeting, presented by CAGOP Chairwoman Jessica Patterson and Immediate Past Chair, Senator Jim Brulte. This is a must for everyone active in the CAGOP. Sen Brulte is sending copies of the PowerPoint presentation to all who requested. When I receive my copy I’ll post it here.
Each of the 7 CAGOP regions had their own meeting & election for Regional Vice Chair. Lisa Moreno was elected as our Region Vice Chair. (https://www.lisa4ca.com/) . Elections were conducted in person with picture ID and paper ballots.
Juan Alani, California Assemblyman for District 22, generously made time to meet with us, invite us to his office and show us around the capital. Capital building offices are currently under renovation and all state assemblymen, senators and the governor have been moved to temporary quarters. After seeing Juan’s office and some interesting discussion about his committee work, Juan escorted us across the street for a tour of the Capitol building.
Sunday was the Main Event, voting for new CAGOP Officers. All delegates convened Sunday Morning. Special Voting handsets were issued to each delegate. Delegates had the option of registering as proxy, allowing a designated delegate to cast their vote. Delegates casting votes as a proxy received their proxy’s handset. There were about 1,300 voting delegates, each sitting in the area designated by their County’s Sign. The room was full of a thousand conversations.
Votes were cast on by-law changes, requested resolutions as well as officers. Each vote was preceded by an opportunity to step up to the mic and to state your position. Speakers were respectful even when disagreeing.
Vote tallies were posted immediately after the 2 minute voting time closed.
We did have some down time to relax and enjoy each other’s company
