PBS and NPR for Southwest Florida
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Florida Delegates Energized

South Florida delegates at the Democratic National Convention say President Obama’s speech last evening is inspiring them to spread his message when they return home. 

President Obama has struggled to excite voters like he did in 2008, but South Florida delegates say his Thursday evening speech was electric.

Delegates say the president’s speech caps off a week that challenged Republican distortions and falsehoods.

As for the takeaway? South Florida delegate Phyllis Smith says Democrats are leaving Charlotte in a different fashion than Republicans left Tampa.  

“It’s a shame that when they all left they all left talking about Clint Eastwood. They’re comedy on wheels. A traveling comedy show. That’s what they are", says Smith. "When we leave here you best believe we’ll be talking about President Barack Obama.” 

So what’s next for these Democratic activists? Florida delegate Marcus Wheeler says he’s planning to make phone calls and knock on doors - whatever it takes. 

“Get fired up. Get ignited and get everyone to vote. We know that the president made a request, and that’s to have Florida as his birthday gift and we’re going to deliver that to him”, says Wheeler.

President Obama will also be trying to fire up Florida voters. He’s making a campaign stop in West Palm Beach on Sunday. 

Related Content
  1. President Obama Kicks off Post Convention Florida Tour