Wyoming Delegates Celebrate Community at the 2024 Democratic National Convention

CHICAGO—On a notable evening at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Laramie resident Artemis Langford experienced a transformative moment as she watched former President Barack Obama speak on stage.

Raised in a politically conservative household, Langford recalled her feelings of anger during Obama’s inauguration in January 2009. However, during this convention in Chicago, she stated her joy in meeting fellow Democrats, emphasizing the convention’s role as a welcoming space for like-minded individuals.

With 24,751 registered Democrats in Wyoming, representing just over 11% of registered voters, many attendees reported challenges in finding political allies back home. In contrast, Republicans hold a significant majority with 180,815 registered voters, which translates to nearly 81% of the state’s voting base.

“If you can’t appreciate this experience, you shouldn’t be here,” remarked Wyoming delegate Lorraine Saulino-Klein, highlighting the powerful atmosphere filled with individuals united by a shared purpose and positive outlook.

The connections made at the convention provided a refreshing change for many delegates, such as Vickie Goodwin from Douglas, who shared past experiences of facing verbal and physical abuse due to their political beliefs. “It’s a real sense of belonging,” she added, expressing relief at being surrounded by supportive peers.

The Wyoming delegation made its presence known during the four-day convention, with Allyson Harvey of Ranchester describing how fellow delegates often attracted attention on their bus rides due to their distinctive energy. “I knew it was you guys! I knew it was Wyoming!” was a frequent remark they heard.

Erin O’Doherty, vice chair of the Wyoming Democratic Party, took the opportunity to learn from other rural states, highlighting the importance of tailored communication strategies for engaging residents in similar communities.

Additionally, state Representative Michael Yin from Jackson aimed to showcase the values and perspectives of Wyoming Democrats on a national platform. “My goal as a delegate is to not only reflect the values that all Democrats share across the country but also to highlight what are Wyoming values,” he stated.

For many delegates, the convention provided a rare opportunity for open political expression. Allyson Harvey expressed her relief at being able to fully embrace her identity without fear of judgment. “I can be who I am,” she noted, reflecting on the liberating atmosphere of the event.