Congressional speeches

Rep. Corrine Brown spoke first and introduced "a leader in the Senate," Bill Nelson.

Nelson then introduced "the real winner in the 13th District, Christine Jennings."

Nelson is emceeing this section. Each member of Congress is getting a minute or so to speak ... standard stuff, you know.

Greetings from the three congresscritters (my word, not Nelson's) who couldn't be here tonight: Klein (who is raising money for the Democrats in New York tonight), Hastings, and Meek.

Next, Rep. Tim Mahoney thanked everyone for their support, without which he says he couldn't have won.

Fellow freshman Rep. Kathy Castor spoke next and gave a real rah-rah speech! :)

Next, my congressional crush, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz! (As I said to my fellow bloggers, "She wants me; she just hasn't met me yet" ;) ) Another energetic and enthusiastic performance. She thanked Sen. Nelson for "retiring Katherine Harris for the good of our state and our country."

Sen. Nelson hearkened back to 2000 and the work done then by Rep. Robert Wexler, whom he introduced. Rep. Wexler: "we'll bring the troops home under Speaker Pelosi's leadership. Thank you [Dems] for being loyal, patriotic Americans!"

Sen. Nelson alluded to the "Big Tent" and then introduced Rep. Allen Boyd, "a Democrat who consistently wins in a Republican district with 60% of the vote.". Rep. Boyd: "I bring you greetings from the Blue Dogs." Tepid applause.

Pelosi up next ... Chairperson Thurman will intro.