Went to a cafe for quick sandwich. Sat next to someone wearing a Freedom To Marry sticker. I struck up a conversation and it turns out he worked in the Reagan Administration. He said, “I was a staunch Republican, but when I moved to NH, I registered as an Independent. On marriage and other issues, the Republican Party left me. Good luck today.”
Back in the Capitol and the gallery is starting to fill-up. I am sitting between NH Dem Party Chair Ray Buckley and Bishop Gene Robinson. Gene says “all is going to be fine today.” Ray just looks at me nervously and says “I need some M and Ms.”
- HRC Field Director Marty Rouse with NH State Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley
UPDATE: The perils of a citizens’ (part-time and little pay) legislature. One of our supporters needed to work today, but was able to be here for two hours. Unfortunately he picked the wrong two hours. Vote did not happen yet and he just left for work.
I love the traditions in NH… Before certain key votes, they announce a roll call to assure legislators who may have stepped out come back and are present for the vote. I was just outside the gallery when a roll call was announced (yes, on my blackberry), and I got treated to the guard next to me bellowing “ROLL CALLLLLL!!!!” I almost shattered an eardrum. It was great to see several legislators scurry out of the restrooms like delinquint kids.
UPDATE 2: Things are heating up. After all the hours in a standing room only gallery, the temperature is rising. Folks are using the bill calendars for fans. The large 8 foot long painting of George Washington hanging behind the house speaker appears to be leaning forward. All of our nerves are getting frayed.
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