U.S. Democratic National Convention to open amid tight security

(Xinhua)

14:06, September 04, 2012

CHARLOTTE, the United States, Sept. 3 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Democratic National Convention is to kick off amid tight security on Tuesday in Charlotte, North Carolina, as supporters and protestors of President Barrack Obama have also prepared themselves for the event.

Democrats hope the three-day convention would generate a renewed enthusiasm for Obama's re-election bid and help him win the battleground of North Carolina, which he won in 2008.

First Lady Michelle Obama will give a prime-time speech on Tuesday to woo woman and minority supporters for her husband.

Former President Bill Clinton will give the nominating address for Obama Wednesday night.

Thursday night, Obama will go forward with his acceptance speech at an open-air football stadium whether it "rains or shines", said Steve Kerrigan, CEO of the Democratic National Convention.

Organizers of the convention said nearly 6,000 people would attend the three-day convention, among which half would be woman voters. More Latinos are also expected to appear at the venues.

Recent polls show the Democratic incumbent's healthcare reform and less stringent immigration policy give him an edge over his Republican rival Mitt Romney among woman and Latino constituents in the swing states, including North Carolina.

The city's Democratic Mayor Anthony Foxx said he believed Obama could win the state, but acknowledged it wouldn't be easy.

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