DNC Day 3 Recap

Democrats brought out the heavy artillery Wednesday night at the Democratic National Convention: the president and vice president, their new VP nominee and the former mayor of the country’s largest city. It was a program where Democrats fully turned their attention to the fall campaign, devoting their time to praising Hillary Clinton and pounding Donald Trump. Here’s what we saw, and why it might matter in the coming months:

Obama in the fray: This was perhaps the last national political speech of the president’s time in office, and his attacks on Trump doubled as a defense of American idealism and the state of the country he will leave behind. “America is already great,” he fired, countering Trump’s campaign motto. Adopting some of the patriotic notes Republicans have long rallied around, Obama hailed the country as imperfect but still strong and vibrant. He seemed energized by the chance to go after Trump and to help Clinton, who he knows would secure his legacy. “Let’s keep it going,” he said in a nod toward his potential political heir. Clinton’s strategy hinges on turning out Obama supporters, like those in Philadelphia, who voted for him in droves the past two elections. He may not have such a big stage again, but we will likely see much more of the president and first lady this election.

Read more at Philly.