Democrats gain new energy
By DAVID LOWE Staff Writer

Democratic party

Recently returned from their party's state convention, Lampasas County Democrats say they detect renewed enthusiasm and competitiveness.

The convention, held in Austin, attracted a number of new Democratic participants and gave delegates a chance to display party unity, Lampasas County Democratic Party Chairman Daniel Melder said.

"I think the greatest highlight for me was seeing so many new people get excited," Melder said. "I think the American people have finally caught on to the fact that if we elect people whose whole mantra is 'Government is bad,' we're going to be in trouble when they try to govern."

On the convention's final day, delegates watched a satellite feed of presidential candidate Hillary Clinton announcing her withdrawal from the race. With Barack Obama claiming the Democratic nomination, one convention speaker asked delegates -- some of whom had supported Mrs. Clinton staunchly -- to hold hands.

"It really seemed to bring us together," said Steven Smith, a Lampasas County voter who attended the state convention for the first time.

Smith met many other first-time delegates, and said he believes Americans are embracing Democratic policy approaches to energy, health care and the war in Iraq.

"I think there's been a huge shift, especially with all the information that's available now, particularly on the Internet," the delegate said. "I think people are ready for a major change in our nation."

As November elections approach, the Texas Democratic Party will strive to gain additional seats in the Texas Legislature, particularly in the House of Representatives, Melder said. The county chairman also believes Rick Noriega, a state representative and Texas Army National Guard lieutenant colonel, can defeat incum- bent U.S. Senator John Cornyn.

"Cornyn talks a good game about supporting the troops, but he never really does anything," Melder said. "A lot of those false words are going to come to roost in November."

Noriega served for 14 months in 2004 and 2005 as deputy garrision commander of the KMTC training facility in Kabul, Afghanistan.

"I think national security is important not just to the people of Lampasas County but all across America," Melder said.

"Who better to protect our national security than somebody who actually has been on the front lines?"

Democrats returned from the state convention hopeful they will see increasing electoral victories in coming years, Melder said.

"Assuming we can continue the momentum we have right now, I think the party will continue to grow strong," he said.