Rochester-area Democratic delegates prepare for 2024 DNC

CHICAGO (WROC) — The Democratic National Convention is set to begin in Chicago next week. Monroe County is getting ready to make their presence known in the coming days.

Just over a dozen local delegates will be in Chicago to represent Monroe County. For the county’s Democratic Committee Chair, it will be his first time attending. Stephen DeVay says he’s anticipating the energy ahead of the historic upcoming election.

“This is a change in the top of the ticket and the party getting behind Harris and Walz. It’s a huge part and huge aspect of it,” said DeVay, “Next week is really going to represent a turning point. We’re going to hear from party folks and former, current, and future presidents, and we’re going to take all of that energy and bring it back to us here in Monroe County. Our local candidates and campaigns are all ready and waiting.”

Congressman Joe Morelle will be in attendance, and says he’s especially focused on the House gaining Democratic control.

“We’re building a national movement. I’m certainly interested in making sure the House gets back in Democratic hands and we win the Majority, so we’ll be talking to folks about how to make that happen. It’s really getting together with friends and comparing notes on what we need to do and how we need to serve the American people,” said Rep. Morelle.

Before the Convention begins, Morelle outlines the call on all voters come November.

“We want every American to participate. We want to make it easier for Americans to vote fair and we want to make sure every vote is counted. I’ll be spending a lot of time in Chicago because of my responsibilities as the top Democrat on the committee that deals with federal elections and the electoral council. I’m going to have a lot to do to make sure we’re securing elections across this country. That’s critically important for everyone,” he said.

The Democratic National Convention runs from August 19 until August 22.

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