Democratic National Convention

Scorecard: First-Night Speeches
Rick Wilking / REUTERS
Senator Kennedy greets the crowd from the podium at the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 25

Ted Kennedy

Grade: A+
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The ailing political lion electrified the hall with a strong, passionate speech. Looking reassuringly (and unexpectedly) tough and robust, he wove elements of Obama's platform into praise for J.F.K.'s achievements and plans for his own agenda. With family (Maria Shriver among them) and friends (Joe Biden and John Kerry) tearing up in the hall, he promised to return to the Senate. Kennedy, himself visibly moved by the reaction, ended with an echo of his famous 1980 convention speech: "The work begins anew, the hope rises again, and the dream lives on." Another emotional chapter in Kennedy family history, written right before the nation's eyes.

— Mark Halperin

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