CHICAGO—On Tuesday night at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Laramie resident Artemis Langford experienced a powerful “healing moment” as she watched former President Barack Obama take the stage. The Wyoming delegate, who grew up in a Republican household, reflected on her feelings during Obama’s inauguration in January 2009, contrasting them with her excitement at attending her first convention.
“It’s been such a joy to meet so many wonderful Democrats at this oasis, this awesome meeting point,” Langford expressed.
Despite the joy of gathering, Wyoming Democrats often face challenges finding like-minded individuals in their home state, where registered Democrats number only 24,751, accounting for just over 11% of the electorate as of August 1, 2024. In stark contrast, registered Republicans total 180,815, representing nearly 81% of voters.
“If you can’t appreciate this experience, you shouldn’t be here because it’s powerful to be around all these people who have a common goal, [who] have a positive outlook, who want to do some good for everybody,” said delegate Lorraine Saulino-Klein, describing the atmosphere as “jazzy.”
During the event, attendees engaged with speeches from notable figures such as former First Lady Michelle Obama, who drew cheers and chants from the crowd. Wyoming delegates, including Kendall McHoes and Lorraine Saulino-Klein, shared in the excitement of the convention, which featured Obama’s critiques of former President Donald Trump.
Interactions among the Wyoming delegation were notably different from their usual experiences at home. Langford and Saulino-Klein hail from Albany County, where Democrats are more competitive, unlike many of their counterparts who face political opposition. Vickie Goodwin recounted the tribulations her late husband faced for being a cross-dresser, emphasizing the uniqueness of finding support among fellow Democrats.
“I’m not afraid to be a Democrat in Wyoming, but it’s nice to be at the DNC and feel the energy here,” Goodwin said. “It’s a real sense of belonging.”
Allyson Harvey from Ranchester highlighted the impact of their presence at the convention, recounting how their boisterous nature was recognized during bus rides to the venue.
“Us Wyoming people tend to be a little bit louder,” Harvey noted.
Erin O’Doherty, vice chair of the Wyoming Democratic Party, took the opportunity to learn from other rural states at the convention, recognizing that effective communication is key for Democrats in areas like Wyoming.
State Representative Michael Yin (D-Jackson) expressed his ambition to showcase the values of Wyoming Democrats at the national level, emphasizing the importance of sharing their unique political ideologies.
“This year’s convention offered a rare chance for Wyoming’s delegates to articulate their beliefs freely,” Harvey said, identifying the contrast with their cautiousness back home. “I can be who I am.”