Westbrook, MAINE - With a record-breaking number of pre-registrations, the Maine Democratic Party is excited to announce the details of its 2018 Convention beginning one week from today. Democrats from across the state will gather at The Colisee in Lewiston next Friday, May 18 - Saturday, May 19th to ramp-up efforts to elect Democrats up and down the ballot this November united under the theme “Victory Starts Here”.
“After nearly eight years of Governor LePage’s divisive politics and failed leadership, Maine Democrats are ready for a new day,” said Phil Bartlett, Chairman of the Maine Democratic Party. “This year’s convention will give us the opportunity to unite around our desire to improve the economy, create jobs in every part of the state, make healthcare more accessible and more affordable, put an end to the opioid crisis that’s tearing our state apart, and make Augusta work again on behalf of hard-working Maine families. With a record-breaking number of Democrats prepared to attend our convention, it’s clear that we have energy and momentum on our side and we are ready to elect Democrats up and down the ballot this year. We look forward to working hard every day to accomplish that.”
More than 1,350 Democrats have pre-registered for the convention, a record-breaking number for a non-presidential year, demonstrating the enthusiasm and energy Democrats are feeling. In addition to pre-registrants, even more people are expected to attend beginning on Friday. Registration opens at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, May 18thfor those who did not pre-register.
A detailed schedule of events for the convention, which includes remarks by Maine’s Democratic elected officials and candidates, activist trainings, and party business, can be found HERE. With respect to remarks delivered by candidates, each candidate will be provided a 10-minute time slot to address the convention. The speaking order will be decided by drawing names out of a hat on Thursday night. The speaking order will be announced once it is determined.
This year’s keynote speaker is Democratic Congressman Joaquin Castro of Texas, a champion for great public schools and universities, a sound health care system, and good-paying jobs for all Americans.
The Maine Democratic Party is encouraging Democrats to engage with @MaineDems on Twitter and Facebook during the convention, using #VictoryStartsHere - the theme adopted during this year’s Democratic caucuses.
Note to media: The convention is open to media. Members of the press should contact MDP Press Secretary Chris Glynn as soon as possible to request a press credential. Press check-in will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, May 18th. Please enter through the Colisee’s main entrance. Upon entering, you will check in at the press table, receive your credential, and be greeted by Communications Director Scott Ogden or Press Secretary Chris Glynn.
Additional information about the convention, including frequently asked questions, can be viewed on the Maine Democratic Party’s convention landing page HERE.
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