TYLER, Texas — Delegates from all 50 states are in Chicago for the Democratic National Convention and that includes East Texans.
The last time the Democratic National Convention was held in-person was in 2016. Smith County Democratic Party Chair Hector Garza, who is in Chicago, said this year, the energy from attendees is unmatched.
"The atmosphere out here is very energetic, it's electrifying. The people are in a very positive mood. Everybody is smiling and proud to be here. The energy is phenomenal," Garza said.
Thousands of attendees for the convention also calls for heightened security, which has been a topic of concern.
"We've seen the U.S. Capitol officers. We've seen the Secret Service officers out here, so security is very very tight," Garza said.
Deputy County Chair Cam Ray said rural areas are a key component in the election.
"There’s really been a focus this year on rural America and turning out the rural vote. A lot of rural areas are known for not voting," Ray said.
Garza said what Kamala Harris administration would focus on is not only major issues happening in the United States, but East Texas needs as well.
"Healthcare, or veterans in East Texas, the crisis they’re having to go through to get veteran benefits for medications and everything and with health care you’re looking at women's rights, abortion. Some of the key issues and immigration issues along the southern border," Garza said.
Both delegates say this convention holds an opportunity.
"One of the main things is unifying the party. Of course, approving the platform and getting our platforms together and one of the big ones is getting Harris to accept the nomination as president of the United States," Garza said.
"Having a candidate that we can be excited about, and Harris is very exciting. And Tim Walz is fabulous (and) he's like everybody's dad," Ray said.
"I’ve talked to a lot of people that have been delegates for the last 20, 24 or 26 years. I've been speaking to them and they're telling me that this convention in particular is different. The atmosphere is different," Garza said.
Garza said there is one word circulating amongst Democrats.
"I think it's the biggest word America can use right now and that's the word hope," Garza said.