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DAILY RECAP
The Candidates:
• George W. Bush
• John Kerry
• Ralph Nader
• Third Parties
Showdown States:
The Conventions:


Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

DAY 1 - Monday July 26, 2004

The Democrats showcased their party stalwarts and successes of years past on the convention's opening night, but also outlined the party's plans for the economy, health care and strengthening the country as part of the theme of "The Kerry-Edwards Plan for America's Future." Hillary and Bill Clinton, the night's featured speaker, received rock-star receptions and helped frame an upbeat, optimistic image for the Kerry-Edwards ticket. Former President Jimmy Carter was more negative of the Bush administration than some expected. "In the world at large, we cannot lead if our leaders mislead," Carter said, to thunderous applause. Gore injected some humor into the night, telling the audience, "Take it from me, every vote counts."
Full story | Blog, Day 1

NOTE: All Times Eastern and subject to change

4 p.m.
• The Democratic National Convention kicked off, with the official call to order by Terry McAuliffe, chairman of the Democratic National Committee.
Gallery: Kicking off the convention
Gallery: Backstage passes
A diverse group of delegates
Delegates fill the floor
Gallery: Final touches before kick-off
Video: Delegate Diaries: Day 1
Gallery: A day in the life of Judy Woodruff

8 p.m.
Former Vice President Al Gore, the Democratic Party's presidential nominee four years ago, reminded delegates at the convention of the power of one person, one vote. "Take it from me," Gore said, "every vote counts. Throwing support behind John Kerry, Gore said, "He is a friend who will stand by you ... He has devoted his life to making America a better place for all of us."
Gore: Every vote counts
Read Gore's speech in full
Video: Gore: America needs new leadership

8:30 p.m.
Democratic women senators presentation: Sen. Barbara Mikulski outlined the important and growing role of women in politics. On stage with Mikulski were Sens. Blanche Lincoln, Dianne Feinstein, Barbara Boxer, Mary Landrieu, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Debbie Stabenow, Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell.
Video: Senate's women stand united

9 p.m.
Preceded by a video look at his life and work, former President Jimmy Carter called on Americans to repudiate the "extremist doctrines" of the Bush administration that he said have "cost our nation its reputation as the world's most admired champion of freedom and justice." Of John Kerry, Carter said he is "ready to follow [Kerry] to victory in November."
Carter: Reject Bush 'extremism'
Read Carter's speech in full
Carter: Kerry 'the president we need now'
Video: Carter: Nation's soul at stake

10 p.m.
• Former first lady and current Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton introduced husband and former President Bill Clinton, but also got in a plug for John Kerry, calling him the "next great Democratic president."
• The former president delivered the opening night's feature address, describing Kerry as "a good man, a great senator, a visionary leader." After a thunderous standing ovation as he entered, Clinton said, "Tonight I come to you as a citizen, returning to you in a role I've played most of my life. I join you here in Boston as a foot soldier in the fight for our future, as we nominate a true New England patriot for president."
Clintons rally party faithful
Read Clinton's speech in full
Video: Clinton calls Democrats to action

11 p.m.
Patti LaBelle wrapped up the first day of the convention with a performance, followed by a benediction from the Rev. Roberta Hestenes of World Vision International in Pennsylvania.
Audio Slide Show: Day 1 highlights
Gallery: Night's speakers captivate audience


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