MPR reporter Dulcie Lawrence summarizes events at the DFL state convention.
The convention endorsed Sen. Walter Mondale for U.S. senator. It passed controversial planks in the party platform: legalization of marijuana, unconditional amnesty for war resistors, a guarantee of full civil rights for homosexuals. The homosexual rights plank eliminates discrimination in jobs and housing, restores full veterans rights to all those discharged for homosexual activities, asks for a repeal of laws against homosexuality, and redefines marriage as a civil contract between two adults.
Perhaps the single most memorable feature was the vast number of people under thirty-five. DFL party secretary Bob Meek, under twenty and youth caucus leader, was re-elected as secretary even though he was not on the nominating committee’s recommended slate. Bob Meek believes issues are important but that the young DFLers have a lot to learn about party processes.
Included are excerpts from Mondale's speech, and comments from Sixth District Rep. Terry Montgomery, leader of the gay caucus Jack Baker, and youth caucus leader Bob Meek.