BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty ImagesBy IVAN PEREIRA, ABC News
(MILWAUKEE) — Democrats will open their mostly virtual convention in Milwaukee Monday under the theme of unity, with speakers who represent the party’s progressive and traditional platforms.
“As we have learned throughout our history, when we stand united, we can overcome anything, including the monumental challenges we face today,” the Democratic National Convention Committee said in a release.
Traditionally, political conventions are painstakingly choreographed live productions that are planned years in advance. But the coronavirus pandemic has reduced the nominating celebration to a minimal footprint in Milwaukee — with major programming and production details still in flux just days before it is set to begin.
Former first lady Michelle Obama will be the keynote speaker of the night, after remaining mostly on the sidelines throughout the 2020 political season.
Sen. Bernie Sanders, the former rival of presumptive Democratic candidate Joe Biden, and former Ohio Gov. John Kasich, a Republican candidate for president in 2016, will also speak.
Here’s Monday’s lineup of speakers:
- Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.
- Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev.
- New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo
- Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
- Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C.
- Convention chairman Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss.
- Former Ohio Gov. John Kasich
- Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Wis.
- Sen. Doug Jones, D-Ala.
- Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.
- Former first lady Michelle Obama
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