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CHARLOTTE, N.C. Although there were no big political events on Monday open to the public, there were plenty of things and people, mostly people, to observe in uptown Charlotte.
The delegates have arrived. Judging from their attire, appearance, and occasional signs, the demographics today were heavily represented by left-wing advocates from labor unions, racial and ethnic minorities, anti-Israel, pro-abortion and the UNC Chapel Hill.
Labor unions known for being particularly politically active, especially public-sector union AFSCME and the blue-collar SEIU, are highly visible. When asked how she got to be a delegate, an AFSCME member from western New York State explained, “I am female, union activist, a public employee, from a rural area. My ticket was punched four different ways.”
Special interest groups abound. There was a booth offering the crowd embraces from union members, the Hug A Thug booth. At least they practice truth in advertising.
Parts of the crowd were bohemian, and heavily tattooed. I mentioned that to a police officer from Chapel Hill, who responded, “This looks like a normal crowd to me”.
In the Wild Wings Café in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and also at Hooters on West Trade Street, the wait staff explained that their tips are below the norm. This, from the clientele who are supposed to be champions of the working class.
At Wild Wings, my friend Ralph McMillan pointed out several female media members from Missouri with whom he had struck up a conversation. This gave me the opening to make a comment as we walked by them that would have gotten me slapped in other circumstances. I greeted them with “Show me.”
The food booths and restaurants around the festival were typified by long lines and extensive waits. We figured Hooters might have plenty of seating since they are accused of “objectifying” women. Sure enough, we were seated immediately.
Coors Light is an official sponsor of the DNC. This is an irony, considering that the Coors family are prominent supporters of Republican and conservative causes.
On a day of typical Charlotte weather for Labor Day, the delegates from northern states were easy to spot. They were red-faced and sweating profusely. Welcome to the South!
