The 2004 Democratic National Convention:
A Wheaton student's view
Day one: Convention fever grips Hub as
Wheaton Wire editor works floor
By Karin Seeber '05
BOSTON, July 27, 2004 - When I applied for a press pass to attend the Democratic National Convention, I thought my chances were slim. As editor-in-chief of the Wheaton Wire, I never imagined that one of the biggest political events of the year would invite a small college newspaper to its stage. But to my surprise, some weeks later I received my credentials, and the next thing I knew I was packing for the four-day hoopla at the FleetCenter.... (More)
Day two: Schmoozing with the best of them
By Karin Seeber '05
BOSTON, July 28, 2004 - On the second day of the convention, I had the opportunity to "shadow" the deputy press manager for Bill Richardson, governor of New Mexico and chairman of the DNC. How did I manage to set up this experience? Wheaton alums, of course!
Bill Richardson is married to a Wheaton alumna, Barbara Richardson '71. When Mrs. Richardson heard from Wheaton Quarterly Editor Jayne Iafrate that I would be attending the convention, she and her assistant arranged for me to witness the behind-the-scenes activities of a political press group. I was anxious and excited about the day's events.... (More)
Day three: View from the Lone Star state
By Karin Seeber '05
BOSTON, July 29, 2004 - I was not sure what to expect on day three of the convention. After two days of hysteria, I thought I had seen almost everything there was to see. Thankfully, I was wrong!
When I arrived at the FleetCenter on Wednesday afternoon, I discovered that the press with lower credentials could obtain a floor pass for either 30 or 60 minutes. I jumped at the chance to go back into the jungle on the floor. However, instead of star gazing or wandering aimlessly around, I decided to speak with the delegates from different parts of the country to hear their stories.... (More)
Camping out with the media
By Karin Seeber '05
Boston, MA, July 30, 2004 - On my final day at the Democratic National Convention, I learned the most important lesson: Never, ever leave the convention on the last night. After spending most of the morning and afternoon at the convention, I decided I needed a break from all the hoopla. As an ordinary citizen (AKA not a political junkie), I knew my stamina for listening to speeches was waning.
When I could not find a seat, I decided to leave the FleetCenter for a while. My plan was to return before Kerry started his speech. Unfortunately, my plan didn't correspond with those of the Boston Fire Department, which closed the FleetCenter. Even some of the delegates were stuck outside, and the doors opened only for Ted Koppel.... (More)