Thousands of Democrats from across Texas are in Corpus Christi this week as the Texas Democratic Convention gets underway, bringing an expected boost to local hotels, restaurants and businesses.
Visit Corpus Christi expects hotel bookings to increase during the convention weekend, though final occupancy numbers will not be available until after the event concludes.
The three-day convention, which runs through Saturday, features party business including leadership elections, platform discussions, caucus meetings, training sessions and speeches from statewide and national Democratic leaders. Organizers describe it as the largest Democratic gathering in the country this year.
While delegates gathered inside the convention halls Thursday, many were also exploring Corpus Christi and supporting local businesses.
“It’s a good feeling to be a part of the local economy,” said Cynthia Ginyard, a delegate from Sugar Land. “Since we are on the coast, we’re just going to enjoy seafood every day and every night.”
Others said they intentionally sought out local restaurants after arriving.
“We wanted to try some of the local places to eat,” said Allan Jamail, a delegate from the Houston area. “Last night we went to Doc’s Seafood House, right on the water. The food was just outstanding. Matter of fact, it is so good we’re going back again tonight.”
Jamail said the visit also gave him a chance to see how much Corpus Christi has changed since he first visited as a child.
“There were very small motels along the waterfront with a few piers on it,” Jamail said. “Now you have these beautiful million-dollar homes coming right down in front of the waterfront. It’s just fantastic how they have turned this city around.”
Sebastian Garcia, a delegate from Lubbock, also said he was impressed by how much the city has grown.
“I remember when the Selena statue didn’t have the gazebo over it,” Garcia said. “It’s exciting. I’m glad to see all this change that you’ve brought.”
With the convention slated to end around 5pm Saturday, Garcia said he also hopes to experience Corpus Christi’s nightlife before heading home.
“Shoot, if anyone invites me out, I’m game,” Garcia said. “Good food, good drink—I’m there.”
The Texas Democratic Convention continues Friday with additional caucus meetings, training sessions and speeches from several of the party’s top leaders. Scheduled speakers include Democratic U.S. Senate nominee James Talarico, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker — who is widely viewed as a potential 2028 presidential contender — and Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin. Vermont Senator and former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders is set to deliver a keynote address Saturday before the convention concludes later that day.