The 2012 Democratic National Convention

First Lady Michelle Obama waves after addressing the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, September 3, 2012.

Delegates cheer as First lady Michelle Obama addresses the Democratic National Convention, Charlotte, North Carolina, September 4, 2012. (J. Featherly/VOA)

Delegates recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the opening of the Democratic National Convention, Charlotte, North Carolina, September 4, 2012. (J. Featherly/VOA)

A woman records the invocation at the Democratic National Convention, Charlotte, North Carolina, September 4, 2012. (J. Featherly/VOA)

Delegates await the start of the first day of the convention, September 4, 2012.

A group of third grade students rehearse saying the Pledge of Allegiance ahead of the first day of the convention in Time Warner Cable Arena, September 4, 2012.

Advertisements for the DNC line the walls at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Protesters block an intersection near the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina for several hours while surrounded by police who allow the demonstration to continue, September 4, 2012. (J. Featherly/VOA)

Delegates tour the floor ahead of the convention, September 3, 2012. (J. Featherly/VOA)

Programs laid out for guests inside the convention center. (J. Featherly/VOA)

The Charlotte, North Carolina skyline seen through the window of an airplane, September 2, 2012.

President Barack Obama's campaign manager Jim Messina tours the floor at the Democratic National Convention, September 3, 2012.

Delegates and Democratic National Convention visitors crowd one of the merchandise stores in Charlotte, September 3, 2012. (J. Featherly/VOA)

Delegates await the start of the first day of the Democratic National Convention, September 4, 2012.

A 15-ton sand sculpture of President Obama is on display outside the convention. The sand comes from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. (J. Featherly/VOA)