The Johnson County Democratic Committee held its annual Kirkpatrick dinner in Warrensburg yesterday evening with Senator Harold Caskey (D) as the honoree. Statewide office holders, candidates, colleagues, friends and over two hundred Democrats gathered for the speeches, the dinner, and an auction.

Candidates took the opportunity to circulate around the room before dinner, talking with and listening to party activists:

Jim White, the Democratic Party candidate in the 4th Congressional District.

Secretary of State Jason Kander, a candidate for the U.S. Senate in 2016, was the keynote speaker.

Senator Scott Sifton (left), a candidate for Attorney General in 2016, speaking with former Senator Bob Johnson.

Attorney General Chris Koster was also a featured speaker.

A Johnson County Democratic Party activist again slipped a sign on the stage while Chris Koster spoke to the audience during the dinner.

Ruth and Larry Moore, friends of Harold and Kay Caskey, spoke of their longtime friendship.

The evening included reminiscences of the personal and political past, humorous stories and quips – some which may or may not be true, a considerable amount of laughter – and a few groans, serious words about the future of Missouri and the country, and a good bit of Democratic Party politicking.