Democratic convention: Bill Clinton backs Barack Obama

Skooter reporting 09/06/12

At the Democratic convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, former US President Bill Clinton has delivered his 50-minute speech which was strongly critical of Republican economic plans and a prime-time defense of Barack Obama, nominating the president for a second term in the White House.

He instigated a full-throated defense of Mr Obama's policies, stating Obama’s economic policies were functioning.

Mr Obama will take on Republican Mitt Romney in November's election.

Bill Clinton's speech is considered as the highlight of a rejuvenated relationship between the two presidents and as an attempt to enhance Mr Obama's plea with white working-class voters.

Polls prove these traditional Democratic voters are cautious of Mr Obama, however Mr Clinton has a tough record in gaining their support.

The former president told the crowd that they would "decide what kind of country you want to live in". He added that you should support the Republican ticket if you want a ‘you are on your own winner take all society, and if you want a country of shared opportunities and shared responsibilities, we’re all in it together’ society, then you should vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

Mr Clinton criticized Republicans for blockading further progress on the economic recovery and getting unfathomable into the aspect of policy debates.

Mr. Clinton was quoted as saying, "In order to look like an acceptable, moderate alternative to President Obama, they couldn't say much about the ideas they have offered over the last two years.” He was referring to the Republican convention in Florida a week ago.

The former president brought to mind to the crowd that Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell had expressed that their number one priority was to get Mr Obama out of office. He declared then they're going to keep President Obama on the job.

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BBC