http://www.thejournalnews.com/newsroom/071604/a11w16clinton.htmlA day after supporters of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton angrily accused Democratic leaders of snubbing one of the party's biggest stars, presidential hopeful John Kerry asked New York's junior senator yesterday to address the Democratic National Convention on opening night and introduce her husband, former President Bill Clinton.
"Senator Clinton is honored and delighted to have the opportunity to address the convention, and she will continue to do everything she can to elect John Kerry and John Edwards," said Philippe Reines, Clinton's press secretary, in a statement.
Kerry's invitation addresses a controversy that erupted after Kerry's campaign and the Democratic National Convention Committee announced a prime-time speakers lineup that did not include Hillary Clinton. The list did include Bill Clinton and former Vice President Al Gore.
Supporters of the former first lady, including former New York Democratic Chairwoman Judith Hope were outraged that Clinton was not being allowed to speak. They charged that the party was making a "huge mistake" and insulting New York women by not giving Clinton a speaking role.