Political wives at conventions
As first lady Michelle Obama prepares to speak at the DNC, look back at the role of wives in political conventions.
Michelle Obama, scheduled to speak at the 2012 Democratic National Convention, is one of a long line of political wives who have taken to the convention stage to encourage support for their husbands.
Michelle Obama, scheduled to speak at the 2012 Democratic National Convention, is one of a long line of political wives who have taken to the convention stage to encourage support for their husbands.
With her speech supporting George H. W. Bush's 1992 re-election effort, Barbara Bush kicked off the modern tradition, according to an Associated Press story.
Hillary Rodham Clinton addressed the 1996 Democratic National Convention when she was first lady.
Bill Clinton's 1996 rival, Bob Dole, had the support of wife Elizabeth at that year's Republican National Convention.
After Tipper Gore introduced him at the 2000 Democratic National Convention, Al Gore famously kissed his wife on stage.
Laura Bush, center, supported both of George W. Bush's successful bids for the White House with speeches at the 2000 and 2004 Republican National Conventions.
Teresa Heinz Kerry took the podium to support her husband, John Kerry, at the 2004 Democratic National Convention.
Cindy McCain, wife of John McCain, spoke at the 2008 Republican National Convention.
Ann Romney spoke late last month at the 2012 Republican National Convention, where Mitt Romney accepted his party's nomination.
Michelle Obama, who spoke at the 2008 Democratic National Convention during Barack Obama's first presidential run, will try to win support for his re-election with an opening-night speech at this year's DNC.
