Plenty of faces familiar to Illinois voters will speak at Tuesday’s kickoff of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., ahead of the evening’s main draw — First Lady Michelle Obama’s prime-time speech.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel is scheduled to speak just after 8 p.m. central time, according to the convention’s official schedule. Tammy Duckworth, fighting a tough race in the 8th congressional district against incumbent Joe Walsh, speaks in the 7 p.m. hour, while Gov. Pat Quinn will take the stage after 5 p.m.
San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro will deliver the evening’s keynote address after 9 p.m. Chicago time. Giving his introduction is his twin brother Joaquin Castro, a member of the Texas state house who is himself running for Congress for Texas’ 20th district.
First Lady Michelle Obama’s speech caps off the evening. The Washington Post analyzes her speaking style here, while The Hill reports President Barack Obama plans to watch the speech from the White House with their two daughters.
And music fans, take note: Amber Riley, of the TV show “Glee,” will sing the National Anthem shortly after DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz gavels the convention to order. Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ledisi also performs live later in the evening.
