Platform planks took center stage at the state Democratic Party convention in Seattle, June 1 through June 3, 2012.

State Committeewoman Sarah Cosby of San Juan Island and State Committeeman Jamie Stephens of Lopez Island led a delegation of six San Juan County Democratic activists at the convention, according to Becky Hellman, vice chairwoman of the 40th Legislative District Democrats.

Cosby served on the platform committee at the convention, working with Alison Longley of San Juan Island, to cement language drafted by Longley into the platform to “oppose the permitting of the [Whatcom County coal] terminals unless it is proven that there will be no net negative impact to the environment, human health and economy of our state.”

Supporters of the bulk-cargo coal and potash terminals had suggested changing the language, but were voted down nearly unanimously in the platform committee and on the convention floor.

Also at the convention for local Democrats was San Olson of Lopez and Diane Martindale of San Juan Island. None of the local Democrats succeeded in being elected delegates to the Democratic National Convention in September.