Democratic convention spotlight

Jimmy Carter, 79

The 39th US President has won praise for his work promoting social justice and world peace, and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Carter will address the convention today.

Bill Clinton, 57

The 42nd President has published a memoir which became a runaway best seller. He will speak to the convention today.

Al Gore, 56

Vice-President under Bill Clinton, Gore has made news recently for strident denunciations of the Bush Administration and will address the convention today.

Ron Reagan, 46

The son of Republican President Ronald Reagan will speak to the convention tomorrow about stem--cell research. Reagan is a liberal commentator and sharp critic of President George W. Bush.

Barack Obama, 42

An Illinois state senator since 1997, Obama is the Democratic nominee for the Illinois Senate seat being vacated by Republican Peter Fitzgerald, and will deliver the convention's keynote address tomorrow. The Harvard-trained Chicago lawyer has won plaudits from party leaders for his charisma and cross-racial appeal.

Max Cleland, 61

Former Georgia senator who lost three limbs in the Vietnam War. He was defeated in 2002 after one term and was criticised by his Republican opponent for being soft on national security issues. Cleland was an early supporter of John Kerry's candidacy and helped organise veterans for the campaign. He was head of the Veterans Administration under Carter. He will introduce Kerry on Friday.

Hillary Rodham Clinton, 56

Elected to the Senate from New York in 2000, the former first lady is seen by many as a possible future presidential contender. She was initially denied a speaking role place at the convention by party leaders, but after objections by some in the party was invited to introduce her husband, former President Bill Clinton, today.

- REUTERS