Democratic Convention Gets Under Way in Denver

WASHINGTON – The summer Olympics are ending, but brace yourself for another event that happens once every four years.

It’s time for the political conventions. The Democrats kick off theirs Monday in Denver, followed by the Republicans next week in St. Paul.

Here are a few things to watch for this week in Denver:

Michelle Obama

Barack Obama’s wife is the keynote speaker on the first day of the convention tomorrow, as Democrats look to focus on family issues.

Michelle Obama took some heat in February after saying that “for the first time in my adult lifetime, I’m really proud of my country,” in reference to her husband’s political success. Expect her speech to be more closely watched than other would-be first ladies in years past.

The Clintons

You can’t have a Democratic convention without the Clintons. And both will have prominent speaking roles.

Sen. Hillary Clinton, who battled Obama for the party’s nomination, will be the primetime speaker on Tuesday night. Former President Bill Clinton will be a featured speaker on Wednesday.

Also on Wednesday, a roll-call vote is expected that will officially confirm Obama as the Democratic nominee.

In a show of unity, Clinton is expected to ask delegates pledged to her to vote for Obama instead. Democratic Party officials say they are confident that Clinton supporters will not attempt to nominate her instead of Obama.

Keynote address

Mark Warner, the former Virginia governor who is currently running for U.S. Senate, will give the keynote address Tuesday.

The keynote address is closely watched. It places rising political stars on a national stage. Four years ago, Obama gave the address while he was running for U.S. Senate.

The main event

On Thursday, the show moves from the Pepsi Center to Denver’s Invesco Field, where Obama will accept the Democratic nomination in front of 75,000 supporters, a larger than usual crowd for a convention.

How to watch

Not going to Denver? Don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to track the proceedings.

On the Web: The Democrats will offer live streaming video and daily Webcasts at demconvention.com. Visit mgwashington.com for continually updated convention news, videos and analysis.

On Television: Cable news networks are planning round-the-clock convention coverage and network news outlets will provide limited primetime coverage. Check your local listings for times.

Want more politics?

Don’t worry. The Republican National Convention begins Sept. 1. Visit gopconvention2008.com for more information.