SAN ANTONIO – The Texas Democratic Convention officially kicked off Thursday in San Antonio.
Organizers are expecting 10,000 people to attend the convention over the next few days at the Alamodome.
On Thursday morning, crews already had the stage set up and plenty of big screen televisions.
Texas Democratic Party Communications Director Tariq Thowfeek said the convention is the largest state Democratic convention in the nation.
"We're super excited to be in San Antonio," Thowfeek said. "Especially, with our convention chair, (U.S. Rep.) Joaquin Castro ... and his twin brother, (HUD Secretary) Julian Castro."
Hundreds of volunteers spent Thursday morning putting together packets and bags and getting ready to greet thousands of attendees.
Thowfeek said although this is an election year, the convention focus will be on issues like health care, education and debt-free college.
"This weekend is all about defending hardworking Texas families," Thowfeek said. "That's what this 2016 convention is about. We're not focused on the issue of patrolling a bathroom and things like that. We're here about kitchen table issues that affect Texans lives daily."
With presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump scheduled to arrive in San Antonio on Friday, Thowfeek said he's not worried about the convention being overshadowed by his visit.
"I think for anyone getting involved, this is the place to be," Thowfeek said. "We're going to be standing strong here. His hateful language against the Latino community, that's not what we're about. That's not what Texas is about."
Festivities will kick off at La Villita on Thursday night. Some of the events will be hosted by the Texas Democratic County Chair Association and the Bexar County Democratic Party.
