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Stateside: Speaking with Lester Graham from the DNC in Charlotte

Michigan Radio's Lester Graham talks with Senator Carl Levin (D-MI) at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C.
Michigan Radio

Tonight brings the emotional high point of the Democratic National Convention - the speech from President Barack Obama.

All week long, Michigan Radio's Lester Graham has been in North Carolina. He's been covering the convention and the Michigan delegation.

Governor Snyder talked about Republican hopes of turning Michigan to a red state. But the  Democrats in Charlotte will likely have something to say about that.

Graham tells us the delegates in Charlotte are optimistic, but they know they have some work to do to get people to the polls in November.

"As I was reading the coverage from President Clinton's speech last night I think they could probably take a few talking points from that speech and use it to persuade people. But I think the main thing is organization," said Graham.

Graham said Democrats in Michigan have to convince voters that an Obama win in Michigan should not be taken for granted. Some polling data show it's a dead heat between Obama and Romney in Michigan.

Graham says the recovery of the auto industry is something Democrats will play up this election cycle, but neither GM or Chrysler have been active politically. Both companies have closed the door to photo ops at their plants, and Graham points out they've been absent at the conventions too.

Graham says Michigan is not being ignored at this convention. Both parties know Michigan is a key state.

"A lot of people have been coming by talking to the Michigan delegation during the morning meeting," said Graham.

Cyndy asked Graham about the enthusiasm for President Obama at this convention.

Graham says enthusiasm has been building. First with First Lady Michelle Obama's speech, and then with President Clinton.

"They got fired up last night after hearing President Clinton, and I suspect that today it's going to be quite an exciting time for the delegates who are gathered."

Graham says the delegates seem ready to campaign for President Obama.

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