March 17, 2008

DENVER - Five months before the 2008 Democratic National Convention, Roll Call this morning shows planning for the event continues to be, "on pace or ahead of pace" on all fronts with Convention organizers confident they will, "walk into Denver unified and knowing who our nominee is."

Sans Nominee, DNC Unfazed; Denver Plans Press Ahead
Roll Call
By Erin P. Billings and Jennifer Yachnin
March 17, 2008

"'The nuts and bolts, the logistics of the convention are the logistics, regardless of the nominee,' said Leah Daughtry, chief executive officer for the Democratic National Convention. 'On Aug. 25, we have to be ready. We don't get another day. We're planning to be ready in that hall when that gavel drops.'

"Daughtry said organizers got off to 'an early start' with the selection of the convention dates and location. Also, she said party officials continue to be 'on pace or ahead of pace in terms of planning and logistics.'

"Much of the preparation has been under way for months, with national Democrats working to make available lodging, transportation and convention space for the thousands of visitors to Denver. Most of that work can be done without the presidential nominee in place, but the candidate typically teams with national party players well in advance to put his or her stamp on the overall message, framework and program for the four-day event…

"'There's still plenty of time,' insisted Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.). 'The convention planning is moving with full force; we are way ahead of Boston and L.A. The logistics -- all that is happening.'…

"Daughtry said convention organizers 'think we'll be walking into Denver unified and knowing who our nominee is. We aren't at all worried about that.'…

"Ken Salazar was quick to point out that Denver is no rookie to event planning, arguing it has handled, among other things, an international G-8 summit and a papal visit."

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