The Democratic National Convention

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Selecting the Democratic Candidate for President 2008

The Democratic National Convention is history, and certainly it made history with the official nomination of Barack Obama, first African-American candidate for President of the United States of America.

Read on for highlights of the convention held August 25-28, 2008, in Denver, Colorado.

Accepting the Nomination Thursday Night

Senator Barack Obama

Nightly Speakers and Topics of the 2008 Convention

History was made in Denver.

  • Monday, August 25: The "One Nation" theme focused on the life of Barack Obama with Michelle Obama being the featured prime-time speaker. The highlight of the night was a tribute to Senator Ted Kennedy with an in-person appearance by the senator, who is currently fighting brain cancer.

  • Tuesday, August 26: "Renewing America's Promise." Senator Hillary Clinton's prime-time speech brought down the house. She fought a good fight in the primaries and nearly made history in her race to be the first female nominee for president. Without a doubt, she broke that "glass ceiling" and laid the groundwork for women to come.

  • Wednesday, August 27: "Securing America's Future" with prime-time speaker, vice presidential choice Senator Joe Biden.

  • Thursday, August 28: "Change You Can Believe In." On Thursday night, Barack Obama's acceptance speech, which you can see in a video below, was delivered from INVESCO field with a huge crowd in attendance.

Visit this page for each night's complete program.

The 2008 Democratic Convention Committee Logo 

The 2008 Democratic Convention Committee Logo

Red, White, and Blue in Denver, Colorado

The logo for the 2008 Democratic Convention was originally unveiled in lights on the exterior of the Pepsi Center in Denver, site of this summer's convention.

"With Denver playing host, the Convention is an opportunity to highlight the importance of the West to the future of the Democratic Party and to broaden the conversation about what it truly means to be a 'big tent' party - beyond regional and ethnic diversity to include an expanding array of people who share the Party's values.

"The majestic mountain skyline and star-filled horizon that are characteristic of Denver and the entire Rocky Mountain region are reflected in the logo to demonstrate that view."

(Quote from the website of the DNCC.)

Video Highlights of the 2008 Denver Convention

Couldn't be there? See the convention speeches here.

MICHELLE OBAMA: Addresses Denver Convention
by Politicstv | video info

520 ratings | 154,311 views
curated content from YouTube

What is a Delegate? What makes a delegate a SuperDelegate?

Nobody said the selection process was simple.

Delegates are people committed to a specific candidate who are elected by the voters (you and me) in the state primaries or chosen in the caucuses. When you cast your vote in a primary or a caucus, you're effectively choosing a group of delegates who have committed to voting, at the convention, for your candidate.

Superdelegates consist of party leaders including current or previous office-holders within the party, governors, senators, and others. A superdelegate wears a special shirt at the convention, as well as a cape . No, not really, but in the case of the democrats this year, the superdelegates do wield a lot of power. At this point in the race neither Hillary Clinton nor Barack Obama is likely to receive enough delegates via the remaining primaries to secure the nomination, so the eventual choice of the party's candidate will lie in the hands of the superdelegates. While the delegates are committed to a particular candidate, the superdelegates are not. Many superdelegates do endorse a candidate in advance of the convention while others will not state a choice until the balloting at the convention begins.

The controversy in advance of the Democratic convention at this point lies in whether Hillary Clinton, by virtue of a "deal" with superdelegates, may be able to "steal" the nomination from Barack Obama if he actually receives the majority of the committed delegate votes. Some people remember the riots accompanying the 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago. Some now have predicted sheer chaos at the 2008 convention if such deals do occur. Perhaps the outcome will be known before the democrats arrive in Denver; perhaps not. Either way, the August convention promises to be very interesting indeed.

Shirts for SuperDelegates

. . . or for super-special people whose name begin with the letter D.

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History of the Democratic National Convention

This is the convention's second trip to Denver, the first being in 1908.

"The first Democratic National Convention, in 1832, led to the nomination of Martin Van Buren to be incumbent President Andrew Jackson's running mate when he received the two-thirds vote that had been required. This "two-thirds rule," which often required conventions to cast ballots dozens of times, remained in effect for more than 100 years (minus exceptions in 1835 and 1840). This original three-day event in Baltimore, Maryland began the Democratic Party tradition with a win, as President Jackson easily defeated Henry Clay of Kentucky. No party platform was issued, as that tradition did not start until 1840, when the Convention -- once again, in Baltimore -- nominated Van Buren for the presidency."

From the website of the 2008 DNCC. Click here for more history and a complete list of previous convention cities.

This Wikipedia article gives additional history as well as an overview of the nomination process.

Democrats and Democratic Conventions from the Past

Books and videos for democrat fans and historians.

Official proceedings of the Democratic national convention, held in 1864 at Chicago. by Michigan Historical Reprint Series

Official proceedings of the Democratic national convention, held in 1864 at Chicago. by Michigan Historical Reprint Series

This volume is produced from digital images create more...0 points

American Revolution 2

American Revolution 2

A heady time of change and chains, the 1960s was d more...0 points

Party of the People: A History of the Democrats by Jules Witcover

Party of the People: A History of the Democrats by Jules Witcover

Given the Democratic Party's fundamental role in shaping more...0 points

The American Experience - Democrats

The American Experience - Democrats

Celebrate America's 20th-century Chief Executives more...0 points

Homegrown Democrat: A Few Plain Thoughts from the Heart of America by Garrison Keillor

Homegrown Democrat: A Few Plain Thoughts from the Heart of America by Garrison Keillor

In this thoughtful, deeply personal work, one of t more...0 points

Finding Your Way to and Around Denver

August 25-28, 2008

Traveling to Denver?

Make your travel plans and reservations soon!

The dates of the Convention are August 25-28, 2008. Why not go early and stay late?

powered by Orbitz

Packing for the Trip to the Convention

Need new luggage? We've got you covered!

How about a new laptop bag?
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What's the forecast for Denver?

Hot and steamy inside the convention hall, no doubt, but here's what the weather's like outside.

Current weather conditions in Denver, CO (80204)

Local Pollen Reports

45°F (Feels like 39°F)

Last update: 5/31/12 4:32 AM MDT

Humidity: 71%
Visibility: 10.0 mi
Dew Point: 36°F
UV Index: 0 (Lawn and Garden Weather)
Barometer: 30.16in falling
Moon: Rush Hour Traffic
Wind: 10mph From: Airport Conditions
powered by weather.com

Today


Fair
High: 73°F
Low: 55°F
Sunrise: 5:35 AM
Sunset: 8:22 PM

Friday
Jun 1 


Partly Cloudy
High: 81°F
Low: 56°F
Sunrise: 5:34 AM
Sunset: 8:22 PM

Saturday
Jun 2 


Partly Cloudy
High: 83°F
Low: 58°F
Sunrise: 5:34 AM
Sunset: 8:23 PM

Sunday
Jun 3 


Isolated T-Storms
High: 87°F
Low: 61°F
Sunrise: 5:33 AM
Sunset: 8:24 PM

Convention Wear: Shirts (and more) for Obama-Biden Supporters

Support Your Candidates!

Places to Eat in Denver

Including reviews from people who have been there.

Click on the "more" link for detailed information.

Here's what Yelpers have to say about Food in 80204

Divino Wine & Spirits (Denver)  
"Divino is awesome. Their wine selection is great! I have purchased "gifts" for several people on their recommendation - I give them a few parameters and..." more
Toast! Wine and Spirits (Denver)  
"Super Cute little joint! This is just what the Highland's needed. I lived in the area couple years ago and would have DIED if this was there at the time...." more
Savory Spice Shop (Denver)  
"Best customer service in all of Denver!" more
Seafood Landing (Denver)  
"As far as I'm concerned this is the one and only place to get seafood in the Rockies. Bruce, the owner has been a fishmonger for many decades and he knows..." more
Savory Spice Shop (Denver)  
"This Place is a Godsend. Nothing like the pure joy of walking through this palce flipping through the recipes in my head and see what mish mash fo fusion..." more
Santa Fe Cookie Company (Denver)  
"i just discovered the lemon bars....dear God! they just surpassed every chocolate chip craving i will ever have. buttery crumbly crust and tart..." more
Denver Bicycle Cafe (Denver)  
"I took my bike in here for a tuneup and I was incredibly impressed with the service and price. I had a chain removed, my brakes fixed, and some other minor..." more
Skoops Ice Cream & More (Denver)  
"Skoops has AMAZING dinner entrees. Last weekend I had their Stuffed Chicken Breast with plump Dried Fruit, Pancetta, & Macadamia Nuts-- WOW. The stuffing..." more
The Truffle Cheese Shop (Denver)  
"My favorite place to go when someone is visiting. the service is very friendly and knowledgeable about there products. MD in fine cheese's. They are not..." more
Quiero Arepas (Denver)  
"What I had? reina pepiada arepas (I think..) Food review: I have heard so much buzz about this place so I was excited to find out that they were going to..." more
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Nightlife in Denver

For after-convention hours.

Here's what Yelpers have to say about Night Life in 80204

Denver Patio Ride (Denver)  
"The ONLY reason it gets a 4 is because our tour started an hour late...So, 8pm on a Sunday....The guy (owner??) bought a few people in the group some..." more
Black Crown Lounge (Denver)  
"The Black Crown is my new favorite place in Denver to have a cocktail. The staff is delightful. Ask Nick the resident mixologist to shake you up a White..." more
City Park Jazz (Denver)  
"I've already become excited for the upcoming season of City Park Jazz! This is really such an awesome *free* event that the city of Denver puts on - so..." more
Great Divide Brewing Company (Denver)  
"This is quickly becoming one of my favorite spots as I've gone the past two weekends. And the reason? Sweet, delicious beer. Ok maybe not all are sweet..." more
Williams & Graham (Denver)  
"All I can say is AMAZING!! When you walk in....it looks like a tiny bookstore but then you are whisked away to the 1920's prohibition times. The inside is..." more
Avenue Theater (Denver)  
"Had no idea there's a little theater nestled in here. Went to see Dave Shirley's Rattlebrain, he is so talented! The show as funny, relaxing, and at times..." more
The Cruise Room (Denver)  
"I really like this throwback cocktail establishment with the neon ceiling lights and 'Titanic' feel of the 40's. Great place for that last call before..." more
Rustic Tavern (Denver)  
"Even though this place is a local dive, even if you're not from the neighborhood you will surprisingly feel welcome. Slide into a booth or a table if the..." more
P S Lounge (Denver)  
"My kind of bar, and I can't believe it took me this long to find this place in Denver. No frills, cash only, good juke box, pool table, and attached to a..." more
Horseshoe Lounge (Denver)  
"I heart you Horseshoe! I do. I really do. Even though I technically "live" in Dallas I'm in Denver more than not. I'm always on the lookout for..." more
powered by Yelp

Blogging about the Candidates: Barack Obama

Obama's on their minds. What are the bloggers saying today?

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Blogging about the (former) Candidate: Hillary Clinton

Hillary still has her supporters and her bloggers.

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Convention Wear: Hillary Clinton for President!

This woman's place is in the White House! (Maybe next time.)

Most designs are available on different styles and sizes of shirts and on other products. Just click on a shirt to see more.

Price: $ Buy Now

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Democratic Convention Memorabilia on eBay

Pins, Books, Pictures, Tickets, Badges and more Convention Collectibles

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The Democratic National Convention Online

Some important links.

Convention Schedule
Here's the schedule by date, including the theme for each night and the speakers.
The DNC Site
The main convention site, with lots of history, information, and topics of interest.
Obama for President
The Barack Obama campaign's official website.

Have Something to Say? It's Your Turn.

Going to the convention? Wish you could? Hate the candidates? Love them?

Speak up. We're listening!

  • no name Oct 17, 2008 @ 11:02 am | delete
    wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Obama ooooo0o =)
  • lisadh Aug 29, 2008 @ 4:00 pm | delete
    Great lens on the most interesting convention the Dems have had for a long time. Here's hoping the positive mood lasts through November!
  • PatinKC Aug 23, 2008 @ 6:14 pm | delete
    I featured this lens on my lensObama For President. Also lensrolling.
  • EclecticWAHM Apr 13, 2008 @ 12:59 pm | delete
    Fabulous lens! I've lensrolled on my What to do in Denver lens!
  • asmoul89 Apr 8, 2008 @ 10:46 am | delete
    Your lenses are amazing! I'm really nervous about these upcoming contests. I fear that if Obama is the nominee we'll have a Republican in the White House. I LOVE HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON!

    www.squidoo.com/hotforhillary
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Susan52 is a baby boomer, a retired homeschool mom, and a Giant Squid on Squidoo where she recently celebrated her five-year anniversary. She enjoys w... more »

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