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AUGUST 14, 2000

The Democratic National Convention opens today in Los Angeles, California, but contrasts between the event and the Republican National Convention held earlier this month are already being noted.

The event also highlights emerging differences within the party. As President Clinton makes his way out of office, at least one half of the Al Gore - Joe Lieberman team appears to be distancing himself from the legacy, actions, and campaign techniques of the former administration.

With 1.2 percent of delegates self-reporting themselves as Native American or Alaska Native, the convention is already more diverse than the Republican party. Less than a half of a percent of delegates at the Republican convention in Philadelphia were Native American.

Similarly, gender for the Democrats is not only a reality, but a requirement. Each state is required to send a team of delegates composed of equal numbers of males and females, whereas 61 percent of Republican delegates were male.

But with Gore trailing some 11 points in various polls behind his challenger George W. Bush of Texas, the party has a lot more work to do besides presenting to the nation besides a more representative face of America.

Vice-Presidential candidate Lieberman has already drawn distinction not only for his Orthodox Jewish faith, but for his criticism of Clinton during the Monica Lewinsky affair. Now, he's going after certain segments of the entertainment industry for being "cultural polluters."

Both Gore and Clinton have relied heavily on support from the entertainment industry. Some are suggesting the Gore campaign is sending out too many mixed messages to potential voters.

Indeed, some Democrats are worried about the potential threat of Green Party candidates Ralph Nader and Ojibwe activist Winona LaDuke. Many fear the Greens will steal away some of the vote that would otherwise go to the Democrats.

In a close race, as this year's appears to be, the vote hijacking could cost Gore valuable votes in particular states, according to worriers within the Democratic party.

One thing the Democrats and Republicans share, however, is an enthusiastic selection of entertainment for convention delegates. Tonight, Melissa Etheridge will entertain the crowd and guests later in the week include performers Luther Vandross and Boyz II Men.

Both President Clinton and Hillary Clinton will address the convention tonight. President Jimmy Carter will also receive a special tribute.

Relevant Links:
The Democratic National Convention - www.dems2000.com
The Democratic National Committee - www.dnc.org
Al Gore 2000 - www.algore2000.com

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