Today was quite eventful in our mythical 51st State! The schedule was jam-packed, and so, unfortunately, was the weather forecast. The citizens and staff showcased their patience, grace, and great sense of humor as the 80th session of Bluebonnet Girls State contended with rain, rain, and more rain.
First, the National Party won the coin toss and chose to deliver their primary speeches first, followed by the Federal Party. Citizens kicked off their mornings by taking charge in their City Council meetings, crafting specific ordinances tailored to each city's unique needs. County and State offices saw spirited campaigns, with both parties showcasing their enthusiasm following Tuesday's boisterous Party Day festivities.
The House and Senate convened, and business was well underway: committee chairwomen submitted their reports on bills referred from the first reading, and the chambers grew livelier as the citizens felt increasingly confident with Parliamentary procedure. We will be keeping our eyes on the House and Senate chambers in the upcoming days as more bills are debated on second reading.
Today also marked the recently adopted Federal Holiday, Juneteenth. Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War. Slaves in our state finally learned of the Emancipation Proclamation, more than two years after it was issued. Citizens joined together to recognize this day and reflect on our collective journey to renew our dedication to building a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.
As the day progressed, the rainstorm picked up, keeping everyone safely indoors and pivoting plans across the 51st state. Despite the delay, citizens and staff made the best of it with trivia, photos, songs, and snacks. As results came in, a wide variety of runoff elections were conducted across both parties, interspersed with Party songs and chants. To end the evening, the Nats and Feds came together for election returns and the energy in the room was absolutely electric.
Tomorrow, candidates will come together to deliver their speeches to both parties before General Election voting commences. Congratulations to everyone who took the stage tonight! Tune in tomorrow for your elected TBGS 2024 State officials!
Your nominees for the Federal Party are:
Governor: Adhia Da Silva Agostinho, City F
Lieutenant Governor: Lydia Barrett, City N
Attorney General: Thandeka Gwelo, City D
Comptroller of Public Accounts: Reagan McDonald, City M
Land Commissioner: Deborah Garza, City G
Agriculture Commissioner: Harper Mau, City N
Railroad Commissioner: Isabella Hurtado, City M
Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals: Mary-Claire Finch, City I
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court: Yani (Yanelle) Pulse, City K
Your nominees for the National Party are:
Governor: Skye Gibbs, City E
Lieutenant Governor: Contessa Barron, City K
Attorney General: Bareera Saif, City N
Comptroller of Public Accounts: Alice Cai, City C
Land Commissioner: Daniela Laing, City L
Agriculture Commissioner: Ariel De Walt, City B
Railroad Commissioner: Carly Krothe, City A
Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals: Camila Villaurrutia, City G
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court: Addie Shelton, City J
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