(All times Eastern)
5 p.m.
The convention formally gets under way with reports from the rules, credentials and platform committees.
7 p.m.
The Democrats’ high-tech, multimedia stage will get its first extensive use in telling Barack Obama’s personal story. The evening’s theme of “One Nation” will begin with the candidate’s biography.
8 p.m.
Influential Democrats will take turns explaining what their party stands for. One of the focal points will be House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s remarks on a “Journey for Change.” Also laying out the Democratic message will be former President Jimmy Carter, via videotape from New Orleans, and early and influential Obama backer Sen. Claire McCaskill of Missouri.
9 p.m.
The connections between Obama and the Kennedy family will be highlighted in a lengthy video tribute to Sen. Edward Kennedy. His niece Caroline, also part of Obama’s vice presidential selection squad, will introduce the video and make brief remarks.
10 p.m.
The highlight of the evening for Democrats will come when Michelle Obama, still by her husband’s side, speaks by remote to the crowd. Her brother, Brown University men’s basketball coach Craig Robinson, will introduce her and discuss their family’s story.
Other speakers Monday night include Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., of Illinois, Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar, and former Rep. Lee Hamilton of Indiana.
Aside from the extensive coverage on cable news networks, the convention is being carried by public television and C-SPAN.
