Democrats to begin national convention

WASHINGTON (AP) - Democrats gather this week in Charlotte, N.C., with one goal: nominate Barack Obama and stay on message about why he needs to be re-elected.

Making the case Tuesday evening in the keynote address will be San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro. The next night, former President Bill Clinton will place Obama's name in nomination. And on the final night of the convention, both Vice President Biden and President Obama will address the convention.

But the opposition plans a presence in Charlotte to remind people there's more than one point of view. Just outside the perimeter of the Bank of America stadium, GOP officials plan a steady stream of anti-Obama rhetoric and information.

And today, Republican vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan campaigns 230 miles away in Greenville.

Meanwhile, GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney will be in New England, practicing for the three debates with Obama that are coming up in the weeks ahead.

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