Thursday, September 6, 2012

Obama to lay out economic goals in convention speech

Delegates sit around a large cutout of President Barack Obama's head during the final day of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Thursday, September 6, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC, which concludes today, nominated Obama as its presidential candidate on Day Two on the convention. Delegates sit around a large cutout of President Barack Obama's head during the final day of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Thursday, September 6, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC, which concludes today, nominated Obama as its presidential candidate on Day Two on the convention.
A woman salutes during the DNC on Thursday.A woman salutes during the DNC on Thursday.
U.S. Rep. Barney Frank of Massachusetts takes the stage on Thursday.U.S. Rep. Barney Frank of Massachusetts takes the stage on Thursday.
Musician James Taylor performs at the convention on Thursday.Musician James Taylor performs at the convention on Thursday.
Supporters pray during an invocation on Thursday.Supporters pray during an invocation on Thursday.
Singer Marc Anthony walks onto the stage to sing the national anthem on Thursday.Singer Marc Anthony walks onto the stage to sing the national anthem on Thursday.
Attendees sing and dance as musician James Taylor performs on Thursday.Attendees sing and dance as musician James Taylor performs on Thursday.
Two women run for cover from the pouring rain during the final day of the convention on Thursday.Two women run for cover from the pouring rain during the final day of the convention on Thursday.
People in the stands wait for the start of the third day of the Democratic National Convention on Thursday.People in the stands wait for the start of the third day of the Democratic National Convention on Thursday.
President Bill Clinton speaks on Wednesday, September 5.President Bill Clinton speaks on Wednesday, September 5.
Former President Bill Clinton embraces President Barack Obama at the end of his speech Wednesday. Former President Bill Clinton embraces President Barack Obama at the end of his speech Wednesday.
The crowd cheers as Bill Clinton makes his case Wednesday for the re-election of Barack Obama.The crowd cheers as Bill Clinton makes his case Wednesday for the re-election of Barack Obama.
Bill Clinton formally nominates President Barack Obama for a second term in his highly anticipated speech.Bill Clinton formally nominates President Barack Obama for a second term in his highly anticipated speech.
First lady Michelle Obama receives a standing ovation Wednesday. Bill Clinton praised the president for having "the good sense to marry Michelle Obama."First lady Michelle Obama receives a standing ovation Wednesday. Bill Clinton praised the president for having "the good sense to marry Michelle Obama."
Delegates wave union signs supporting Barack Obama on Wednesday.Delegates wave union signs supporting Barack Obama on Wednesday.
U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts waves to the crowd Wednesday. A consumer advocate, she complained that people today "feel like the system is rigged against them."U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts waves to the crowd Wednesday. A consumer advocate, she complained that people today "feel like the system is rigged against them."
U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland speaks on day two of the DNC.U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland speaks on day two of the DNC.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel claps while listening to Wednesday's speeches. He spoke Tuesday night.Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel claps while listening to Wednesday's speeches. He spoke Tuesday night.
Cuban-American actress and talk show host Cristina Saralegui endorses President Barack Obama on Wednesday.Cuban-American actress and talk show host Cristina Saralegui endorses President Barack Obama on Wednesday.
Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards walks off stage after her speech Wednesday.Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards walks off stage after her speech Wednesday.
Delegates cheer during Wednesday's program.Delegates cheer during Wednesday's program.
Audience members wave signs Wednesday in support of the American auto industry.Audience members wave signs Wednesday in support of the American auto industry.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks Wednesday.House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks Wednesday.
U.S. Rep. Karen Bass of California speaks before delegates on Wednesday night.U.S. Rep. Karen Bass of California speaks before delegates on Wednesday night.
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan speaks on Wednesday.U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan speaks on Wednesday.
A guard stands by as former North Carolina Gov. Jim Hunt speaks on Wednesday.A guard stands by as former North Carolina Gov. Jim Hunt speaks on Wednesday.
A choir performs on stage during the DNC on Wednesday.A choir performs on stage during the DNC on Wednesday.
Two men in vests hold a pile of American flags on Wednesday.Two men in vests hold a pile of American flags on Wednesday.
People pose during the official convention photography during Day 2 of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.People pose during the official convention photography during Day 2 of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.
A tri-colored hat sporting the Democratic party's mascot sits on a chair on Wednesday.A tri-colored hat sporting the Democratic party's mascot sits on a chair on Wednesday.
Sikh supporters hold up a sign on Wednesday.Sikh supporters hold up a sign on Wednesday.
A woman reacts as Missouri Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks on Wednesday.A woman reacts as Missouri Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks on Wednesday.
Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks to delegates on Wednesday.Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks to delegates on Wednesday.
Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas leads the Pledge of Allegiance as the West Charlotte High School ROTC presents the colors on Wednesday.Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas leads the Pledge of Allegiance as the West Charlotte High School ROTC presents the colors on Wednesday.
Delegate Gloria Goodwin wears earrings depicting President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama on Wednesday.Delegate Gloria Goodwin wears earrings depicting President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama on Wednesday.
Ruby Gilliam of Ohio salutes the flag on Wednesday.Ruby Gilliam of Ohio salutes the flag on Wednesday.
Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas waves after leading the Pledge of Allegiance on Wednesday.Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas waves after leading the Pledge of Allegiance on Wednesday.
Priscilla Marquez and Evie Walls from Arizona pose in the Google photo booth on Wednesday.Priscilla Marquez and Evie Walls from Arizona pose in the Google photo booth on Wednesday.
A police officer stands near golf carts outside the Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.A police officer stands near golf carts outside the Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.
First lady Michelle Obama wraps up day one of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Tuesday, September 4. First lady Michelle Obama wraps up day one of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Tuesday, September 4.
A sea of signs welcomes the first lady onto the stage Tuesday at the Time Warner Cable Arena.A sea of signs welcomes the first lady onto the stage Tuesday at the Time Warner Cable Arena.
Delegates listen to Michelle Obama's speech Tuesday. The first lady offered a personal perspective on why her husband should be re-elected.Delegates listen to Michelle Obama's speech Tuesday. The first lady offered a personal perspective on why her husband should be re-elected.
Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro and his brother, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, wave to the audience Tuesday.Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro and his brother, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, wave to the audience Tuesday.
Julian Castro gives the keynote address Tuesday night. "Mitt Romney, quite simply, doesn't get it," he declared.Julian Castro gives the keynote address Tuesday night. "Mitt Romney, quite simply, doesn't get it," he declared.
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during day one of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Tuesday. Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during day one of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Tuesday.
Lilly Ledbetter, whose fight for equal pay resulted in the Fair Pay Act, takes the stage on Tuesday.Lilly Ledbetter, whose fight for equal pay resulted in the Fair Pay Act, takes the stage on Tuesday.
First lady Michelle Obama's brother, Craig Robinson, and President Barack Obama's half-sister, Dr. Maya Kassandra Soetoro-Ng, speak on Tuesday.First lady Michelle Obama's brother, Craig Robinson, and President Barack Obama's half-sister, Dr. Maya Kassandra Soetoro-Ng, speak on Tuesday.
People hold signs Tuesday that read "Forward" and "Not Back."People hold signs Tuesday that read "Forward" and "Not Back."
Actor-producer Kal Penn speaks on Tuesday.Actor-producer Kal Penn speaks on Tuesday.
People listen to Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Tuesday.People listen to Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Tuesday.
Rahm Emanuel, who served as President Barack Obama's first chief of staff, addresses the crowd Tuesday.Rahm Emanuel, who served as President Barack Obama's first chief of staff, addresses the crowd Tuesday.
Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius walks onstage Tuesday.Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius walks onstage Tuesday.
Former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland takes the podium on Tuesday.Former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland takes the podium on Tuesday.
Robert Rios from the Virgin Islands waves a state flag on Tuesday.Robert Rios from the Virgin Islands waves a state flag on Tuesday.
Stacey Lihn of Arizona speaks on Tuesday as her husband, Caleb, holds her crying daughter, Emmy, and other daughter, Zoe Madison.Stacey Lihn of Arizona speaks on Tuesday as her husband, Caleb, holds her crying daughter, Emmy, and other daughter, Zoe Madison.
A detail of the prosthetic legs of Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq war veteran who is running for the U.S. House from Illinois, is shown at the podium on Tuesday.A detail of the prosthetic legs of Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq war veteran who is running for the U.S. House from Illinois, is shown at the podium on Tuesday.
President of NARAL Pro-Choice America Nancy Keenan speaks on Tuesday.President of NARAL Pro-Choice America Nancy Keenan speaks on Tuesday.
Audience members wave American flags Tuesday.Audience members wave American flags Tuesday.
Maria Ciano, who grew up a conservative Republican, addresses the DNC crowd TuesdayMaria Ciano, who grew up a conservative Republican, addresses the DNC crowd Tuesday
Former Rep. Patrick Kennedy holds his child as he speaks to the media Tuesday. He is a son of the late Sen. Ted Kennedy.Former Rep. Patrick Kennedy holds his child as he speaks to the media Tuesday. He is a son of the late Sen. Ted Kennedy.
U.S. House candidate Joe Kennedy III of Massachusetts takes the stage Tuesday. U.S. House candidate Joe Kennedy III of Massachusetts takes the stage Tuesday.
Joe Kennedy III speaks Tuesday during the Democratic National Convention.Joe Kennedy III speaks Tuesday during the Democratic National Convention.
A video tribute to the late Sen. Ted Kennedy is displayed Tuesday in Charlotte.A video tribute to the late Sen. Ted Kennedy is displayed Tuesday in Charlotte.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks onstage with other female members of Congress on Tuesday.House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks onstage with other female members of Congress on Tuesday.
Pelosi and other female members of Congress applaud on Tuesday.Pelosi and other female members of Congress applaud on Tuesday.
Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar sports a cowboy hat while taking the stage Tuesday.Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar sports a cowboy hat while taking the stage Tuesday.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada speaks to an applauding crowd on Tuesday.Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada speaks to an applauding crowd on Tuesday.
DNC delegates cheer during Tuesday's program.DNC delegates cheer during Tuesday's program.
Former President Jimmy Carter addresses the convention in a videotaped message.Former President Jimmy Carter addresses the convention in a videotaped message.
Former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine speaks to the convention.Former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine speaks to the convention.
A man from the Texas delegation stands under a campaign sign.A man from the Texas delegation stands under a campaign sign.
A baby sleeps during Tuesday's speeches.A baby sleeps during Tuesday's speeches.
North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue welcomes the convention to her state.North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue welcomes the convention to her state.
The Rev. Jesse Jackson attends the convention.The Rev. Jesse Jackson attends the convention.
Newark Mayor Cory Booker points to the crowd during his speech on Tuesday.Newark Mayor Cory Booker points to the crowd during his speech on Tuesday.
 A woman cheers during Tuesday's program.A woman cheers during Tuesday's program.
Security personnel looks out at the crowd as U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer speaks on Tuesday.Security personnel looks out at the crowd as U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer speaks on Tuesday.
Hoyer gives a thumbs up.Hoyer gives a thumbs up.
U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, the Democratic National Committee chairperson, opens Tuesday's program.U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, the Democratic National Committee chairperson, opens Tuesday's program.
The third-grade class from W.R. O'Dell Elementary School in Concord, North Carolina, recites the Pledge of Allegiance.The third-grade class from W.R. O'Dell Elementary School in Concord, North Carolina, recites the Pledge of Allegiance.
Dr. Lorrie Rickman Jones of Chicago cries as she watches Tuesday's speakers.Dr. Lorrie Rickman Jones of Chicago cries as she watches Tuesday's speakers.
Law enforcement officers prepare to face off with protesters during a march outside the Charlotte Convention Center on Tuesday.Law enforcement officers prepare to face off with protesters during a march outside the Charlotte Convention Center on Tuesday.
People in the Wisconsin delegation area sit in front of a digital image of the Lincoln Memorial hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.People in the Wisconsin delegation area sit in front of a digital image of the Lincoln Memorial hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.
Newark Mayor Cory Booker, left, laughs with stage manager David Cove during a walk-through on Tuesday.Newark Mayor Cory Booker, left, laughs with stage manager David Cove during a walk-through on Tuesday.
A worker checks the stage hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.A worker checks the stage hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.
First lady Michelle Obama is interviewed before the start of the convention on Monday, September 3.First lady Michelle Obama is interviewed before the start of the convention on Monday, September 3.
Michelle Obama and actor and former Obama administration aide Kal Penn bump fists after a rehearsal for her speech on Monday.Michelle Obama and actor and former Obama administration aide Kal Penn bump fists after a rehearsal for her speech on Monday.
A man prays during a public prayer service at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Sunday, September 2, ahead of the convention.A man prays during a public prayer service at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Sunday, September 2, ahead of the convention.
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  • NEW: President Obama will call for more jobs, $4 trillion in deficit reduction
  • NEW: Obama will say not every problem can be solved by government
  • Obama's speech will conclude the Democratic National Convention
  • Mitt Romney says Obama fails to deliver on promises

Charlotte, North Carolina (CNN) -- President Barack Obama will set specific goals for economic growth, energy development and deficit reduction in his speech on Thursday night that will conclude the Democratic National Convention, which nominated him for re-election.

According to excerpts of the speech released to reporters, the president will call for the nation to rally around "a real, achievable plan" to deal with the most problematic issues facing his campaign -- high unemployment, sluggish economic recovery and chronic deficit and debt increases.

Specific goals include creating one million new manufacturing jobs by the end of 2016, doubling exports by the end of 2014 and reducing the federal deficit by $4 trillion over the next decade.

Other goals include halving net oil imports by 2020, cutting the growth of college tuition in half over the next 10 years, and training two million workers for jobs.

"I won't pretend the path I'm offering is quick or easy. I never have," Obama will say, according to the excerpts. He added that "it will take more than a few years for us to solve challenges that have built up over decades."

In an obvious message to independents and moderate voters of both parties, Obama also will seek to distance himself from the accusation by his Republican opponent, Mitt Romney, that he is a big-government liberal.

"Those of us who carry on his party's legacy should remember that not every problem can be remedied with another government program or dictate from Washington," Obama will say.

Following in the mold of the forceful endorsement he received Wednesday night from former President Bill Clinton, Obama also will offer an optimistic outlook for the future to contrast with Republican warnings of a nation in peril.

"Our problems can be solved. Our challenges can be met," he will say. "The path we offer may be harder, but it leads to a better place. And I'm asking you to choose that future."

Romney indicated Thursday that he wasn't planning to watch Obama's speech.

"If I heard, or if in the excerpts that are put out, I hear the president is going to report on the promises he made and how he has performed on those promises, then I would love to watch it," Romney said in New Hampshire. "But if it is another series of new promises that he is not going to keep, I have no interest in seeing him."

Obama's speech concluding the three-day convention originally was set for the 73,000-seat Bank of America Stadium, but possible thunderstorms caused organizers to move it indoors to the smaller Time Warner Cable Arena, where the political conclave has taken place so far.

In a conference call on Thursday with supporters who had credentials for the outdoor venue but won't be able to get into the arena, Obama acknowledged their disappointment, which he said was shared by "crestfallen" campaign staff who worked for months organizing the scuttled stadium event.

"You're doing unbelievable work in this close race," the president told grassroots campaigners registering voters in North Carolina and across the country. "We can't let a little thunder and lightning get us down. We have to roll with it."

Saying he hoped credential holders would attend parties across the country to watch his speech, Obama said: "I can't wait to share my vision for the future tonight, so I hope you'll tune in."

On Wednesday night, Clinton thrilled an overflow convention crowd by picking apart Republican attacks on Obama and explaining why the president, if re-elected, can achieve the same economic growth that Clinton did in the 1990s.

Five things we learned from Day Two

Delegates sit around a large cutout of President Barack Obama's head during the final day of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Thursday, September 6, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC, which concludes today, nominated Obama as its presidential candidate on Day Two on the convention. Delegates sit around a large cutout of President Barack Obama's head during the final day of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Thursday, September 6, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC, which concludes today, nominated Obama as its presidential candidate on Day Two on the convention.
A woman salutes during the DNC on Thursday.A woman salutes during the DNC on Thursday.
U.S. Rep. Barney Frank of Massachusetts takes the stage on Thursday.U.S. Rep. Barney Frank of Massachusetts takes the stage on Thursday.
Musician James Taylor performs at the convention on Thursday.Musician James Taylor performs at the convention on Thursday.
Supporters pray during an invocation on Thursday.Supporters pray during an invocation on Thursday.
Singer Marc Anthony walks onto the stage to sing the national anthem on Thursday.Singer Marc Anthony walks onto the stage to sing the national anthem on Thursday.
Attendees sing and dance as musician James Taylor performs on Thursday.Attendees sing and dance as musician James Taylor performs on Thursday.
Two women run for cover from the pouring rain during the final day of the convention on Thursday.Two women run for cover from the pouring rain during the final day of the convention on Thursday.
People in the stands wait for the start of the third day of the Democratic National Convention on Thursday.People in the stands wait for the start of the third day of the Democratic National Convention on Thursday.
President Bill Clinton speaks on Wednesday, September 5.President Bill Clinton speaks on Wednesday, September 5.
Former President Bill Clinton embraces President Barack Obama at the end of his speech Wednesday. Former President Bill Clinton embraces President Barack Obama at the end of his speech Wednesday.
The crowd cheers as Bill Clinton makes his case Wednesday for the re-election of Barack Obama.The crowd cheers as Bill Clinton makes his case Wednesday for the re-election of Barack Obama.
Bill Clinton formally nominates President Barack Obama for a second term in his highly anticipated speech.Bill Clinton formally nominates President Barack Obama for a second term in his highly anticipated speech.
First lady Michelle Obama receives a standing ovation Wednesday. Bill Clinton praised the president for having "the good sense to marry Michelle Obama."First lady Michelle Obama receives a standing ovation Wednesday. Bill Clinton praised the president for having "the good sense to marry Michelle Obama."
Delegates wave union signs supporting Barack Obama on Wednesday.Delegates wave union signs supporting Barack Obama on Wednesday.
U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts waves to the crowd Wednesday. A consumer advocate, she complained that people today "feel like the system is rigged against them."U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts waves to the crowd Wednesday. A consumer advocate, she complained that people today "feel like the system is rigged against them."
U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland speaks on day two of the DNC.U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland speaks on day two of the DNC.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel claps while listening to Wednesday's speeches. He spoke Tuesday night.Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel claps while listening to Wednesday's speeches. He spoke Tuesday night.
Cuban-American actress and talk show host Cristina Saralegui endorses President Barack Obama on Wednesday.Cuban-American actress and talk show host Cristina Saralegui endorses President Barack Obama on Wednesday.
Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards walks off stage after her speech Wednesday.Planned Parenthood President Cecile Richards walks off stage after her speech Wednesday.
Delegates cheer during Wednesday's program.Delegates cheer during Wednesday's program.
Audience members wave signs Wednesday in support of the American auto industry.Audience members wave signs Wednesday in support of the American auto industry.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks Wednesday.House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks Wednesday.
U.S. Rep. Karen Bass of California speaks before delegates on Wednesday night.U.S. Rep. Karen Bass of California speaks before delegates on Wednesday night.
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan speaks on Wednesday.U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan speaks on Wednesday.
A guard stands by as former North Carolina Gov. Jim Hunt speaks on Wednesday.A guard stands by as former North Carolina Gov. Jim Hunt speaks on Wednesday.
A choir performs on stage during the DNC on Wednesday.A choir performs on stage during the DNC on Wednesday.
Two men in vests hold a pile of American flags on Wednesday.Two men in vests hold a pile of American flags on Wednesday.
People pose during the official convention photography during Day 2 of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.People pose during the official convention photography during Day 2 of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.
A tri-colored hat sporting the Democratic party's mascot sits on a chair on Wednesday.A tri-colored hat sporting the Democratic party's mascot sits on a chair on Wednesday.
Sikh supporters hold up a sign on Wednesday.Sikh supporters hold up a sign on Wednesday.
A woman reacts as Missouri Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks on Wednesday.A woman reacts as Missouri Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks on Wednesday.
Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks to delegates on Wednesday.Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, speaks to delegates on Wednesday.
Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas leads the Pledge of Allegiance as the West Charlotte High School ROTC presents the colors on Wednesday.Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas leads the Pledge of Allegiance as the West Charlotte High School ROTC presents the colors on Wednesday.
Delegate Gloria Goodwin wears earrings depicting President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama on Wednesday.Delegate Gloria Goodwin wears earrings depicting President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama on Wednesday.
Ruby Gilliam of Ohio salutes the flag on Wednesday.Ruby Gilliam of Ohio salutes the flag on Wednesday.
Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas waves after leading the Pledge of Allegiance on Wednesday.Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas waves after leading the Pledge of Allegiance on Wednesday.
Priscilla Marquez and Evie Walls from Arizona pose in the Google photo booth on Wednesday.Priscilla Marquez and Evie Walls from Arizona pose in the Google photo booth on Wednesday.
A police officer stands near golf carts outside the Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.A police officer stands near golf carts outside the Time Warner Cable Arena on Wednesday.
First lady Michelle Obama wraps up day one of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Tuesday, September 4. First lady Michelle Obama wraps up day one of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Tuesday, September 4.
A sea of signs welcomes the first lady onto the stage Tuesday at the Time Warner Cable Arena.A sea of signs welcomes the first lady onto the stage Tuesday at the Time Warner Cable Arena.
Delegates listen to Michelle Obama's speech Tuesday. The first lady offered a personal perspective on why her husband should be re-elected.Delegates listen to Michelle Obama's speech Tuesday. The first lady offered a personal perspective on why her husband should be re-elected.
Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro and his brother, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, wave to the audience Tuesday.Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro and his brother, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, wave to the audience Tuesday.
Julian Castro gives the keynote address Tuesday night. "Mitt Romney, quite simply, doesn't get it," he declared.Julian Castro gives the keynote address Tuesday night. "Mitt Romney, quite simply, doesn't get it," he declared.
Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during day one of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Tuesday. Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during day one of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on Tuesday.
Lilly Ledbetter, whose fight for equal pay resulted in the Fair Pay Act, takes the stage on Tuesday.Lilly Ledbetter, whose fight for equal pay resulted in the Fair Pay Act, takes the stage on Tuesday.
First lady Michelle Obama's brother, Craig Robinson, and President Barack Obama's half-sister, Dr. Maya Kassandra Soetoro-Ng, speak on Tuesday.First lady Michelle Obama's brother, Craig Robinson, and President Barack Obama's half-sister, Dr. Maya Kassandra Soetoro-Ng, speak on Tuesday.
People hold signs Tuesday that read "Forward" and "Not Back."People hold signs Tuesday that read "Forward" and "Not Back."
Actor-producer Kal Penn speaks on Tuesday.Actor-producer Kal Penn speaks on Tuesday.
People listen to Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Tuesday.People listen to Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Tuesday.
Rahm Emanuel, who served as President Barack Obama's first chief of staff, addresses the crowd Tuesday.Rahm Emanuel, who served as President Barack Obama's first chief of staff, addresses the crowd Tuesday.
Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius walks onstage Tuesday.Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius walks onstage Tuesday.
Former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland takes the podium on Tuesday.Former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland takes the podium on Tuesday.
Robert Rios from the Virgin Islands waves a state flag on Tuesday.Robert Rios from the Virgin Islands waves a state flag on Tuesday.
Stacey Lihn of Arizona speaks on Tuesday as her husband, Caleb, holds her crying daughter, Emmy, and other daughter, Zoe Madison.Stacey Lihn of Arizona speaks on Tuesday as her husband, Caleb, holds her crying daughter, Emmy, and other daughter, Zoe Madison.
A detail of the prosthetic legs of Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq war veteran who is running for the U.S. House from Illinois, is shown at the podium on Tuesday.A detail of the prosthetic legs of Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq war veteran who is running for the U.S. House from Illinois, is shown at the podium on Tuesday.
President of NARAL Pro-Choice America Nancy Keenan speaks on Tuesday.President of NARAL Pro-Choice America Nancy Keenan speaks on Tuesday.
Audience members wave American flags Tuesday.Audience members wave American flags Tuesday.
Maria Ciano, who grew up a conservative Republican, addresses the DNC crowd TuesdayMaria Ciano, who grew up a conservative Republican, addresses the DNC crowd Tuesday
Former Rep. Patrick Kennedy holds his child as he speaks to the media Tuesday. He is a son of the late Sen. Ted Kennedy.Former Rep. Patrick Kennedy holds his child as he speaks to the media Tuesday. He is a son of the late Sen. Ted Kennedy.
U.S. House candidate Joe Kennedy III of Massachusetts takes the stage Tuesday. U.S. House candidate Joe Kennedy III of Massachusetts takes the stage Tuesday.
Joe Kennedy III speaks Tuesday during the Democratic National Convention.Joe Kennedy III speaks Tuesday during the Democratic National Convention.
A video tribute to the late Sen. Ted Kennedy is displayed Tuesday in Charlotte.A video tribute to the late Sen. Ted Kennedy is displayed Tuesday in Charlotte.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks onstage with other female members of Congress on Tuesday.House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi speaks onstage with other female members of Congress on Tuesday.
Pelosi and other female members of Congress applaud on Tuesday.Pelosi and other female members of Congress applaud on Tuesday.
Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar sports a cowboy hat while taking the stage Tuesday.Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar sports a cowboy hat while taking the stage Tuesday.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada speaks to an applauding crowd on Tuesday.Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada speaks to an applauding crowd on Tuesday.
DNC delegates cheer during Tuesday's program.DNC delegates cheer during Tuesday's program.
Former President Jimmy Carter addresses the convention in a videotaped message.Former President Jimmy Carter addresses the convention in a videotaped message.
Former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine speaks to the convention.Former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine speaks to the convention.
A man from the Texas delegation stands under a campaign sign.A man from the Texas delegation stands under a campaign sign.
A baby sleeps during Tuesday's speeches.A baby sleeps during Tuesday's speeches.
North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue welcomes the convention to her state.North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue welcomes the convention to her state.
The Rev. Jesse Jackson attends the convention.The Rev. Jesse Jackson attends the convention.
Newark Mayor Cory Booker points to the crowd during his speech on Tuesday.Newark Mayor Cory Booker points to the crowd during his speech on Tuesday.
 A woman cheers during Tuesday's program.A woman cheers during Tuesday's program.
Security personnel looks out at the crowd as U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer speaks on Tuesday.Security personnel looks out at the crowd as U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer speaks on Tuesday.
Hoyer gives a thumbs up.Hoyer gives a thumbs up.
U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, the Democratic National Committee chairperson, opens Tuesday's program.U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, the Democratic National Committee chairperson, opens Tuesday's program.
The third-grade class from W.R. O'Dell Elementary School in Concord, North Carolina, recites the Pledge of Allegiance.The third-grade class from W.R. O'Dell Elementary School in Concord, North Carolina, recites the Pledge of Allegiance.
Dr. Lorrie Rickman Jones of Chicago cries as she watches Tuesday's speakers.Dr. Lorrie Rickman Jones of Chicago cries as she watches Tuesday's speakers.
Law enforcement officers prepare to face off with protesters during a march outside the Charlotte Convention Center on Tuesday.Law enforcement officers prepare to face off with protesters during a march outside the Charlotte Convention Center on Tuesday.
People in the Wisconsin delegation area sit in front of a digital image of the Lincoln Memorial hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.People in the Wisconsin delegation area sit in front of a digital image of the Lincoln Memorial hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.
Newark Mayor Cory Booker, left, laughs with stage manager David Cove during a walk-through on Tuesday.Newark Mayor Cory Booker, left, laughs with stage manager David Cove during a walk-through on Tuesday.
A worker checks the stage hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.A worker checks the stage hours before the start of the convention on Tuesday.
First lady Michelle Obama is interviewed before the start of the convention on Monday, September 3.First lady Michelle Obama is interviewed before the start of the convention on Monday, September 3.
Michelle Obama and actor and former Obama administration aide Kal Penn bump fists after a rehearsal for her speech on Monday.Michelle Obama and actor and former Obama administration aide Kal Penn bump fists after a rehearsal for her speech on Monday.
A man prays during a public prayer service at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Sunday, September 2, ahead of the convention.A man prays during a public prayer service at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre on Sunday, September 2, ahead of the convention.
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Photos: Best of the DNCPhotos: Best of the DNC
Romney and GOP under attack at DNC
Watch Bill Clinton's full DNC speech
Pelosi: DNC platform debate 'so mild'
Fluke on Obama: 'We need him'

Clinton said the man who defeated his wife for the Democratic nomination four years ago offers a better path forward for the country, and framed the November election as an opportunity for voters to choose what kind of country they want.

"If you want a winner-take-all, you're-on-your-own society, you should support the Republican ticket," Clinton said. "If you want a country of shared prosperity and shared responsibility -- a we're-all-in-this-together society -- you should vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden."

When he finished his 48-minute address, which was much longer than planned, delegates erupted in raucous cheers as Obama made his first appearance at the convention by joining Clinton onstage. The two most recent Democratic presidents embraced and stood arm-in-arm, waving to the crowd.

Inside the DNC: Sights and sounds from convention-goers

"He perfectly teed it up for the president," Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-New York, said of Clinton. "... You had Michelle Obama talking about what the president believes in and who he cares about. President Clinton explained the past. Now it is just ready for Barack Obama to explain what he will do in the future."

Costas Panagopoulos, a political science professor at Fordham University, put the onus on Obama "to make a case for his own re-election, and remind voters why they elected them in the first place and what are the choices that he's made that have been helpful and successful despite the fact that there might have been some things that the president did not achieve."

One Republican strategist said Clinton's speech took some of the pressure off Obama.

"If Barack Obama gets re-elected, I think tonight will be a good reason why," said CNN contributor Alex Castellanos, adding that Clinton gave Democrats "a master class" on moving to the political center.

Still, Castellanos said Thursday that "Obama has to catch the ball that Bill Clinton threw him last night. ... This speech will actually be judged on substance. He has to say, 'Look, we're going to take the country in a different direction.'"

The Wednesday speech was vintage Clinton, blending an expert's command of figures and details with a down-home touch of language and emotion that made him one of the best communicators and politicians of his era.

Hillary Clinton visits Asia, misses husband's speech

Some analysts said Clinton did the dirty work of partisan attacks on Romney and his running mate, Rep. Paul Ryan, leaving Obama to tell the nation his vision for a second term in his nationally televised speech that will conclude the convention.

In his speech, Clinton responded to the attack line by Romney and Ryan that Obama's policies made things worse for Americans already confronting economic hardship four years ago.

Noting the economic crises that Obama inherited upon taking office in January 2009, Clinton declared: "No president -- not me, not any of my predecessors -- no one could have fully repaired all the damage that he found in just four years."

Clinton sought to explain the disappointment cited by Republicans, telling the convention that "a lot of Americans are still angry and frustrated by this economy" and had yet to feel any benefits from a sluggish recovery under Obama.

"I had the same thing happen in 1994 and early '95," Clinton said, drawing a parallel between his experience and Obama's presidency. "We could see it was working, that the economy was growing, but people just couldn't see it yet."

In response, the Romney campaign said the speech drew a "stark contrast" between the two-term Democratic president's accomplishments and those of Obama in what it called "the worst economic record of any president in modern history."

"President Clinton's speech brought the disappointment and failure of President Obama's time in office clearly into focus," said the statement from campaign spokesman Ryan Williams.

Analysis: Clinton speech hit Obama's marks

Clinton takes aim at Republicans

Ryan said at a campaign event Thursday in Colorado that he and Romney want the campaign to be about a better path, rather than "the lesser of two evils."

"We want you to have an affirming choice," Ryan said, describing the options as the Republican plan for an "opportunity society with a safety net and a path to prosperity" or a Democratic alternative for a "welfare state with a debt crisis."

Ryan's comments contained traditional conservative themes and policies that defined the Romney campaign through last week's GOP convention that nominated the former Massachusetts governor and Ryan, the House Budget Committee chairman from Wisconsin.

Clinton took aim at those positions Wednesday night, saying the Republican argument against Obama's re-election "was actually pretty simple, pretty snappy. It went something like this: 'We left him a total mess, he hasn't finished cleaning it up yet, so fire him and put us back in.' "

He criticized what he called the unwillingness of conservative Republicans to work with Obama and Democrats in any meaningful way to address the nation's chronic debt and deficit increases and other issues.

Democratic economic policies have proved successful in the past, Clinton said, noting that Democratic administrations created 42 million jobs in their 24 years in power since 1961, compared with 24 million by GOP administrations in the other 28 years.

Clinton also listed Obama's achievements, focusing in particular on the 2010 health care reform law that he said has lowered health care costs and provided benefits for consumers, such as allowing parents to keep children up to age 26 on family policies and preventing insurers from denying coverage for children because of pre-existing conditions.

"We're better off because President Obama fought for health care reform," Clinton declared, "You bet we are."

At the same time, Clinton criticized Republican proposals to overhaul the Medicare and Medicaid government health care programs for senior citizens, the poor and disabled.

Clinton was particularly critical of Ryan, the architect of the conservative House Republican budget, accusing him of lying about issues such as the health care law and the Obama administration's recent move to give states more flexibility in administering federally funded welfare programs. The issues have been major GOP focuses in attack ads and speeches against Obama.

In addition, Clinton derided Republican deficit reduction plans, saying "the numbers don't add up" because of planned tax cuts without any new revenue sources. The result will be widespread spending cuts that hurt the middle class and other vulnerable segments of society, he said.

"Don't you ever forget when you hear them talking about this that Republican economic policy quadrupled the debt in the 12 years before I took office and doubled the debt in the eight years after I left because it defied arithmetic," he said.

Gergen: Now it's up to Obama

Self-inflicted wounds for Democrats

The Clinton speech concluded a day of some self-inflicted wounds for Democrats. First, campaign organizers announced they were moving Obama's address to the indoor venue, preventing tens of thousands of credentialed supporters from attending.

Later, the Wednesday convention session started with some dissension when delegates approved a change in the party platform to reinstate language recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The original platform approved Tuesday omitted that reference, which had been part of the 2008 platform, and Republicans quickly criticized it as a snub to Israel.

Another change restored the word "God" to the platform after the 2012 version omitted it, though it included language on faith as part of American society. The language referring to God-given rights was the same as in the 2008 platform.

It took three voice votes, with supporters and opponents of the changes strongly expressing their preference, before a clearly flummoxed Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa declared himself satisfied that a two-thirds majority backed the new language, despite groans of displeasure from some delegates.

Warren says middle class 'chipped, squeezed and hammered'

A senior Democratic source told CNN that Obama intervened to change the platform language, saying the president "didn't want there to be any confusion about his unshakeable commitment to the security of ... Israel." In addition, Democratic sources said Obama also asked aloud why the word "God" had been dropped.

"The platform is being amended to maintain consistency with the personal views expressed by the president and in the Democratic Party platform in 2008," said a statement by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who heads the Democratic National Committee.

CNN Fact Check: The $2,000 question

Struggle to define election

Both campaigns are fighting to define the election in the minds of voters. Republicans want it to be about Obama's presidency, while Democrats seek a choice between differing political ideologies on the size and role of government.

In particular, Republicans seek to shrink the size of government and end chronic federal deficits and rising national debt through reducing spending, reforming entitlement programs such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, and slashing taxes on businesses and many individuals as a spur for economic growth.

Obama and Democrats argue that a deficit reduction plan also needs additional revenue, and they propose allowing tax rates on income of more than $250,000 for families and $200,000 for individuals to return to the higher levels of the 1990s.

Republicans oppose any kind of tax increase, and the impasse over that issue has been the main impediment to a comprehensive deficit reduction agreement during Obama's first term.

The race overall is very tight, with a new poll Tuesday showing Romney received little bounce from last week's convention intended to introduce him to voters just now turning their attention to the presidential race.

The CNN/ORC International Poll also indicates that less than 40% of registered voters said the GOP convention made them more likely to vote for Romney. At the same time, Romney got a slight bump in his favorable rating, and on being in touch with the middle class and women, although he still trails Obama on those two questions.

Opinion: Bill Clinton brings it for Obama

CNN's Kevin Bohn, Jessica Yellin, Dana Bash, Ashley Killough, Kevin Liptak, Sarah Aarthun, Halimah Abdullah, Paul Steinhauser, Adam Aigner-Treworgy, Brianna Keilar and Peter Hamby contributed to this report.