More than 84,000 Obama supporters rallied in Denver starting Aug. 25 as the American dream and necessity for change were emphasized during the 2008 Democratic National Convention. For three days, Democrats were encouraged to look toward the future through speakers Michelle Obama, who opened with a family-oriented speech, Senator Edward Kennedy and Senator Hilary Clinton. Sources said Kennedy’s speech was emotional because he has incurable brain cancer and he took command of the audience, while Clinton stressed party unification. Senator Barack Obama accepted the Democratic nomination with Senator Joseph R. Biden as his running mate.
McCain announces his running mate
Senator John McCain announced Alaskan governor Sarah Palin as his campaign running mate on Friday, Aug. 29. Critics have attacked the former Wasilla, Alaska mayor’s lack of political experience. McCain, however, expressed confidence in the social conservative. Palin’s daughter’s teenage pregnancy later caused a stir the first few days after the announcement. McCain’s chief strategist Steve Schmidt has insisted on not politicizing Palin’s personal life. Some feel that Palin’s personal issues could win over female voters in this gender themed election.
Pakistan’s government coalition struggles
Pakistan’s government coalition has collapsed during its enduring political battle. This battle, caused by Pakistan’s former President Rervez Musharraf recent resignation, has ignited as major candidates Saeed-uz-Zaman Siddigui and Asif Ali Zardari now compete for presidency. Nawaz Sharif, previously Pakistan’s prime minister, also heightened political tensions by leaving the coalition government. It is reported that the Parliament elected successor will be chosen Sept. 6 after gaining 352 of 702 votes. The U.S. government wants to remain uninvolved in what it calls an “internal affair” yet, has been vocal in Pakistan’s lack of progress as it faces military setbacks in Afghanistan.
Russian president grants independence to Georgian enclaves
In a nationally televised formal address on Tuesday Aug. 26, Russian president Dmitri A. Medvedev affirmed independence for the two Georgian enclaves, South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Medvedev’s motivating factor in this decision was to save the residents’ lives. Both breakaway regions, these enclaves have wanted to separate from Georgia. President Medvedev has insisted that Russia abided by international law when making the decision, while the U.S. and allies has argued Russia violated cease-fire framework. Sources note that the enclaves’ recently gained independence will be a challenge for the entire world.
Scientific breakthrough predicted to cure illnesses
Harvard biologists have successfully implanted a developed adult cell into the cell of a living animal. Their breakthrough advance is projected to cure illnesses and relieve controversy over embryonic stem cell research. Despite the use of mice in the experiment, researchers are optimistic that it will still prove effective in humans.
