First Lady's Speech Brings Tears To Delegates

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Michelle Obama was the overwhelming star of Tuesday night's Democratic National Convention, delivering a powerful personal narrative about her husband still being the same deeply principled man she fell in love with 23 years ago when they were both broke and watching their families struggle.

Obama's speech contrasted with barnburners from the rest of the night, which attacked GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney on everything from his Swiss bank accounts to flip-flopping on abortion. But the first lady's remarks also touched on the message that others, including the keynote speaker, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, made earlier: Struggle and success aren't just Republican ideals, and there's nothing un-American about getting help.

Obama's speech, like Ann Romney's at the Republican National Convention last week, focused on her relationship with a candidate that she knows as a husband and a father. But while Romney's talk of saving money by eating tuna and pasta fell flat, Obama's stories of student loan debt and family hardships made for a more convincing case that they can relate to middle-class struggles.

During her remarks, the first lady said she knew Barack would make an "extraordinary" president when he first ran in 2008, but in her quieter moments, she worried about the toll the spotlight would take on their daughters. She said she feared losing "the simple joys" she shared with her family.

"Saturdays at soccer games, Sundays at grandma's house," Obama said. "And a date night for Barack and me was either dinner or a movie, because as an exhausted mom, I couldn't stay awake for both."

Obama said she loved the life they had, and she didn't want to lose it because "I loved Barack just the way he was."

She described first dating Barack and painted a side to him that most people would find hard to imagine.

He was a guy who "picked me up for our dates in a car that was so rusted out, I could actually see the pavement going by in a hole in the passenger side door," Obama said to laughs. "He was the guy whose proudest possession was a coffee table he'd found in a dumpster, and whose only pair of decent shoes was half-size too small."

Still, she said knew she'd found "a kindred spirit" in Barack when they talked about their families. She grew up with a father with multiple sclerosis who would "prop himself up against the bathroom sink, and slowly shave and button his uniform," and a brother who, like her, relied on student loans to go to college.

Her story, said Obama, was just like Barack's story.

"I realized that even though he'd grown up all the way across the country, he'd been brought up just like me. Barack was raised by a single mother who struggled to pay the bills, and by grandparents who stepped in when she needed help," she said.

Now, four years later, after watching her husband go through "so many struggles and triumphs," Obama said she learned firsthand that being president doesn't change who you are.

"It reveals who you are," she said. "As president, all you have to guide you are your values and your vision and the life experiences that make you who you are."

The first lady kept a measured tone through the speech until the end. She choked up as she talked about her most important title still being "mom-in-chief," and as she said, repeatedly, that she loves her husband more now than when he first became president, and even more than she did when they first met 23 years ago.

"Today, I have none of the worries from four years ago about whether Barack and I were doing what's best for our girls," she said. "We must once again come together and stand together for the man we can trust to keep moving this country forward. My husband, our president, President Barack Obama."

Obama got a standing ovation from the crowd, and as the camera panned around the room, several people visibly wept.

Castro also provoked a strong response from the crowd, which drowned out his speech at some points with cheering.

His message was similar to Obama's, speaking about his family and how he got where he is. He took a softer tone than previous speakers took toward Romney, but his speech was critical nonetheless and stuck to the theme of the night's attacks: Romney can't be trusted.

As Castro discussed his grandmother and his mother, a civil rights activist, he mocked Romney for telling a college student to start a business by borrowing money from his parents. "Gee, why didn't I think of that?" Castro said. "I don't think Governor Romney meant any harm. I think he's a good guy. He just has no idea how good he's had it."

Castro didn't address Latinos specifically, other than praising the president's recent directive on immigration, but he and the Obama campaign have acknowledged the significance of his appearance. Castro has a narrative similar to Obama's: both born to single mothers, both Harvard Law grads, both early entrants into politics. His speech may give him the boost Obama received when he addressed Democrats in 2004. Obama campaign manager Jim Messina promised on Monday that Castro's speech would be memorable, telling members of the Convention Hispanic Caucus, "You are in for one of those moments that, 10 years from now, you are going to say, 'I was there to hear when he gave that speech.'"

Castro took some of the same rhetorical turns as Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) did last week in his address to the Republican National Convention, but to very different conclusions. Both men spoke about their immigrant grandparents -- Castro's grandmother was born in Mexico, while Rubio's grandfather was from Cuba -- and their parents' blue-collar work.

On his father, who worked at a bar, Rubio said, "He stood behind a bar in the back of the room all those years, so one day I could stand behind a podium in the front of a room."

Castro's praise of his mother, a civil rights activist, used a similar line. "My mother fought for civil rights so that instead of a mop, I could hold this microphone," he said.

He said he got there not just through the hard work of himself and his family, but with help from society, through scholarships that allowed him to attend Stanford University and Harvard Law. He said Republicans don't support those kinds of opportunities for people like him.

"What we don't accept is the idea that some folks won't even get a chance," Castro said of Democrats. "And the thing is, Mitt Romney and the Republican Party are perfectly comfortable with that America. In fact, that's exactly what they're promising us."

• First Lady Michelle Obama waves to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Michelle Obama

  First Lady Michelle Obama addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• First Lady Michelle Obama waves to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

• Barack Obama1

  First Lady Michelle Obama addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• First Lady Michelle Obama waves to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• First Lady Michelle Obama speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• First Lady Michelle Obama hugs Elaine Brye before speaking at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, left, and his brother Joaquin Castro, wave at delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Julian Castro, Joaquin Castro

  San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro and his brother Joaquin Castro, right, wave to the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Joaquin Castro

  Joaquin Castro, San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro's brother introduces him to the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Julian Castro

  San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro walks on stage at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Dick Durbin, Tammy Duckworth

  U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin talks to Former Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tammy Duckworth during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Martin O'Malley

  Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Martin O'Malley

  Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley

• Deval Patrick

  Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Deval Patrick

  Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Rahm Emanuel

  Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Rahm Emanuel

  Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Rahm Emanuel

  Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Craig Robinson, Maya Soetoro-ng,

  Craig Robinson, First Lady Michelle Obama's brother, and Maya Soetoro-ng, President Barack Obama's sister, address the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Lilly Ledbetter

• Lilly Ledbetter

• Kal Penn

  Actor Kal Penn addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Lincoln Chafee

  Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Vice President Joe Biden speaks Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Vice President Joe Biden, left, speaks to Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Former Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tammy Duckworth speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Former Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tammy Duckworth stand at the podium as she speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Former Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tammy Duckworth stand at the podium as she speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Jim Clyburn

  Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina points across the convention floor at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

• Stacey Lihn

  Stacey Lihn addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012 as (L-R) her daughter Zoe, husband Caleb and daughter Emerson listen. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Tammy Duckworth

  Former Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tammy Duckworth waves to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Former Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tammy Duckworth speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Former U.S. Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy holds his son Owen during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Nancy Keenan

  President of NARAL Pro-Choice America Nancy Keenan addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Maria Ciano speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Rep. Jared Polis of Colorado waves after speaking to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Jared Polis

  Rep. Jared Polis of Colorado addresess the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Rev. Jesse Jackson is interviewed on the convention floor at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• R.T. Rybak

  Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden watch proceedings at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Robert Wexler

  Robert Wexler, President of the S. Daniel Abraham Center for Middle East Peace and former Representative from Florida, addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Ledisi

  Singer Ledisi preforms during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Joe Kennedy III, candidate for the House of Representatives from Massachusetts, waves to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Joe Kennedy

  Joe Kennedy III, candidate for the House of Representatives from Massachusetts, addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi applauds with women from the House of Representatives wave after speaking at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Nancy Pelosi

  House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and the Democratic women of the House of Reppresentives wave to the delegates atthe Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Candidate for the House of Representatives Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii with the women from the House of Representatives at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Harry Reid

  Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Harry Reid

  Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Anthony Foxx

  Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Tim Kaine

  Former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine waves to the delegates from Virginia before addressing the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Pat Quinn

  Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Doug Stern

  Ohio firefighter Doug Stern addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Charles Gonzalez, Nydia Velázquez

  Rep. Charles Gonzalez of Texas and Rep. Nydia Velázquez of New York address the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Bev Perdue

  North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue speaks to delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Mary Kay Henry

  Mary Kay Henry, International President of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Rep. Charles Gonzalez of Texas points to delegates as he walks on stage at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Cory Booker

  Newark Mayor Cory Booker addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Cory Booker

  Newark Mayor Cory Booker addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Alice Germond

  Alice Germond, Secretary of the Democratic National Committee, addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Barbara Lee

  Rep. Barbara Lee of California addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Newark Mayor Cory Booker speaks to delegates during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Priscilla Chavez, Carla Chavez

  New Mexico delegates Priscilla and Carla Chavez cheer during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Antonio Villaraigosa

  Los Angeles Mayor and Democratic Convention Chairman Antonio Villaraigosa blows a kiss to he delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Rep. Steny Hoyer of Maryland gives the thumbs up to delegates during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Andrew Tobias

  Andrew Tobias, Treasurer of the Democratic National Committee, addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Los Angeles Mayor and Democratic Convention Chairman Antonio Villaraigosa hugs Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, from Florida, before speaking at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• California Attorney General Kamala D. Harris and Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley along with Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, center, from Florida, speak to delegates during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Debbie Wasserman

  Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, from Florida, gavels the start of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Steny Hoyer

  Rep. Steny Hoyer of Maryland addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, from Florida, gavels the start of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012.(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• The 3rd grade class of W.R. O'Dell Elementary School, from Concord, N.C., recites the Pledge of Allegiance at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, from Florida, waves to delegates at the start of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Metropolitan Nicholas

  Metropolitan Nicholas, Bishop of the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Detroit, delivers the invocation at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Joe Biden, Jill Biden

  Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden arrive in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012, to attend the Democratic National Convention. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)

• Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, from Florida, speaks to an aide during a sound check before the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Julian Castro

  San Antonio, Texas Mayor Julian Castro talks to reporters at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. The mayor will give the keynote speech at the DNC. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Nancy Pelosi, Rosa DeLauro

  House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California task with Rep. Rosa Delauro of Connecticut, right, during a sound check at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Nancy Pelosi, Joyce Beatty, Tulsi Gabbard

  House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California, center, looks over the stage with Democratic candidates for the House of Representatives, Joyce Beatty of Ohio, left and Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, right, during a sound check at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Karl Rove

  Karl Rove, former Senior Advisor and Deputy Chief of Staff to former President George W. Bush, is seen on the floor after a television interview at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Nancy Pelosi

  House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California looks over the convention floor during a sound check at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Nancy Pelosi

  House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California walks across the stage under a large television picture of former President Jimmy Carter during a sound check at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Michelle Obama

  First Lady Michelle Obama waves as she appears on the stage for filming a campaign video at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Michelle Obama, Kal Penn

  First Lady Michelle Obama appears on the stage with actor Kal Penn for filming a campaign video at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Michelle Obama, Kal Penn

  First Lady Michelle Obama appears on the stage with actor Kal Penn for filming a campaign video at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Michelle Obama

  First Lady Michelle Obama waves as she appears at the podium for a camera test on the stage at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Michelle Obama

  First Lady Michelle Obama gestures as she appears at the podium for a camera test on the stage at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Michelle Obama, David Cove

  First Lady Michelle Obama listens to head stage manager David Cove at the podium for a camera test on the stage at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Michelle Obama

  First Lady Michelle Obama waves from the podium during a sound check at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

• Michelle Obama

  First Lady Michelle Obama waves as she appears at the podium for a camera test on the stage at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• First Lady Michelle Obama listens to a production manager during a sound check for the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• Production crew makes final preparation on the stage for the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

• Kelly Jacobs, from Hernando, Miss., wears button laden campaign hat while touring the convention hall ahead of the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• A delegate shows off her President Barack Obama button in the convention hall before the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Julian Castro, Joaquin Castro

  San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, left, who will be the convention keynote speaker, and his twin brother, State Representative Joaquin Castro, who is running for U.S. Congress, are interviewed at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)

• Antonio Villaraigosa

  Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa talks to a reporter as he tours the floor at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Debbie Wasserman Schultz,

  Democratic National Committee Chair, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., fourth from left,, poses for a picture with Goergia delegates on the stage at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Production crew work on final adjustments at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2012. the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 02: Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (C) is seen during preparations for the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on September 2, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC that will start on September 4 and run through September 7, will nominate U.S. President Barack Obama as the Democratic presidential candidate. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 02: San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro (L) stands on stage with his brother Joaquín Castro during preparations for the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on September 2, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC that will start on September 4 and run through September 7, will nominate U.S. President Barack Obama as the Democratic presidential candidate. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 02: Workers stand on stage during preparations for the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on September 2, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC that will start on September 4 and run through September 7, will nominate U.S. President Barack Obama as the Democratic presidential candidate. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

• US-VOTE-2012-DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION

  Banners announce the upcoming 2012 Democratic National Convention on September 1, 2012 outside the Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina. Preparations for the Democratic National Convention have begun around Charlotte where the the party is expected to nominate US President Barack Obama to run for a second term. AFP PHOTO / ROBYN BECK (Photo credit should read ROBYN BECK/AFP/GettyImages)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 01: Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (R) tours the stage as preparations continue at the Time Warner Cable Arena for the Democratic National Convention on September 1, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to run from September 4th - 6th. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 01: Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (C) tours the stage as preparations continue at the Time Warner Cable Arena for the Democratic National Convention on September 1, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to run from September 4th - 6th. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 01: Passersby stop to watch as artists create a sand sculpture of President Barack Obama before the start of the Democratic National Convention September 1, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to run from September 4th - 6th. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 01: Shoppers search for souvenirs before the start of the Democratic National Convention September 1, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to run from September 4th - 6th. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

• Charlotte Prepares For Democratic National Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 01: Mounted police patrol the Uptown area before the start of the Democratic National Convention September 1, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to run from September 4th - 6th. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

• Chase Howard

  5-year-old Chase Howard runs across the stage at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

• CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 01: Artist O O sells his art work outside the Time Warner Cable Arena on September 1, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to run from September 4th - 6th. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

• CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 01: Artist O O (R) sets up a booth to sell his politically inspired art near the Time Warner Cable Arena where the Democratic Party will be hosting their national convention September 1, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to run from September 4th - 6th. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

• Inside Time Warner Cable Arena is seen facilitated for the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. in Charlotte, N.C., on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Brevard police officers gather for a meeting at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• Production crew prepare on the floor at the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

• Production crew are seen from the upper level hall way as they prepare for the Democratic National Convention inside Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, N.C., on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

• A volunteer waits to receive credentials for President Barak Obama's acceptance speech during Charlotte's Democratic Convention at a campaign field office in Raleigh, N.C., Thursday, Aug. 23, 2012. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)

• Parker Mothershead

  Parker Mothershead of Charlotte, N.C. walks into the stands in the Tampa Bay Times Forum at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

• The main floor of Time Warner Cable Arena is shown during the public unveiling of Democratic National Convention's facilities in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

• Steve Kerrigan

  DNCC CEO Steve Kerrigan, center, talks with guests near the main stage during the public unveiling of Democratic National Convention's facilities at Time Warner Arena in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

• Visitors take photos of the main stage during the public unveiling of Democratic National Convention's facilities at Time Warner Arena in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

• Workers install banners in preparation of Democratic National Convention's facilities at Time Warner Arena in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

• Steve Kerrigan

  DNCC CEO Steve Kerrigan, center, speaks to the media near the main stage during the public unveiling of Democratic National Convention's facilities Time Warner Arena in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

• Visitors walk past delegate seats during the public unveiling of Democratic National Convention's facilities Time Warner Arena in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

• A worker crosses the main stage at Time Warner Cable Arena during the public unveiling of Democratic National Convention's facilities in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 31, 2012. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• Charlotte's Time Warner Cable Arena Transformed For Democratic Nat'l Convention

  CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 22: Democratic National Convention Committee CEO Steve Kerrigan speaks (R) as COO Theo LeCompte looks on near where workers construct modifications to the Time Warner Cable Arena in preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on August 22, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte-area residents have been invited to attend a public open house and podium unveiling at the arena on August 31 for the convention that starts on September 3. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

• US-VOTE-2012-DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION

  US First Lady Michelle Obama (R) is interviewed by actor and former Obama administration aide Kal Penn (L) after a rehearsal for her speech in the Time Warner Cable Arena September 3, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina as preparations for the 2012 Democratic National Convention continue. AFP PHOTO Stan HONDA (Photo credit should read STAN HONDA/AFP/GettyImages)

• Frames From The 2012 Political Conventions: RNC And DNC

  CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 03: (EDITOR'S NOTE: This image was shot with an iPhone) Workers make preperations on the stage before the start of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at Time Warner Cable Arena September 3, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to start on Tuesday and run through September 6th. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

• Obama campaign logo is seen under the scoreboard hanging from the ceiling inside of Time Warner Cable Arena at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)