(Newser)
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Politico's Mike Allen got his hands on the Democrats' convention planning documents, and they reveal a fierce, two-prong strategy: Portray Mitt Romney as, in Allen's words, a "heartless aristocrat" who doesn't understand the middle class (while proclaiming that Obama has long been its champion), and court independents by showcasing several Republicans. Highlights from the convention plan, which Allen notes is an "early draft" that will almost certainly change:
- Each night will feature a "social contrast": two people talking about key issues, one bashing Romney and one praising Obama's accomplishments. Expect pairings like: parent and gay child; two young immigrants, one born in the US, the other not; and a husband and wife talking about a life-saving PAP smear provided by Planned Parenthood.
- "Real people" will also speak each night. Allen cites "an auto worker whose job was saved, a student who benefited from college loans" as examples.
- Organizers want prominent Republicans speaking on at least two of the convention's three nights. Among the possibilities: a "notable GOP woman," and former Sens. John Warner or Chuck Hagel. Read the documents, "This segment would speak directly to independents, noting we are all 'Americans first.'"
- Michelle Obama is set to speak on the opening night, Sept. 4, and play up her role as a mother; Sasha and Malia could even say a little something about their mom. Wednesday will feature Bill Clinton, and Thursday will put Joe Biden and Obama center stage.
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