Editor’s note: The following is a report on the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from delegate Michael Owens, mayor of Mableton.
I woke up excited for the first full day of the convention, ready to dive into all the activities ahead. My day began with picking up my credentials and enjoying the delegate breakfast. I’m thankful that the Democratic Party of Georgia (DPG) is providing us with a free breakfast every day while we’re here.
I spent the morning doing some work at the hotel before setting out to attend the U.S. Conference of Mayors Luncheon and had the pleasure of dining with (Montgomery, Alabama) Mayor Steven Reed. A fun fact: Mayor Reed used to live in the Six Flags/Riverside area of Mableton before moving to Montgomery, AL. During the luncheon, I also had a chance to chat with Stephen Benjamin, assistant and senior advisor to the president. I made sure to bend the ear of the former mayor and White House insider about how the city of Mableton missed out on ARPA funds and the pressing need for federal support. Additionally, I spoke with Secretary Pete Buttigieg about the transit needs we have in Mableton, which will only increase with our plans to build a city center…