Charlotte's DNC toned down from Denver

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 22 (UPI) -- A toned-down version of the Democratic National Convention is in store for delegates when they gather in Charlotte, N.C., a review of activities indicates.

Fewer parties and fewer top-drawer attendees will be at the convention when President Obama is nominated for his re-election bid than the 2008 DNC event in Denver, The Hill reported Wednesday.

Circumstances are different, The Hill pointed out.

In 2008, the nomination of the first African-American to be a major political party's standard-bearer was historic, and Obama was a star, observers said. Renominating him doesn't generate the same level of excitement.

"A re-election campaign is always a little bit different from the first one," Democratic strategist Steve McMahon said.

Also, the still-punk economy could be "sobering" for some organizations that opted not to sponsor posh events while people are jobless, McMahon said.

But, he said, "I'm sure it'll be a raucous, fun convention like all others."

Since the official schedule hasn't been released and some organizations and celebrities could be waiting until the convention draws closer, things could change, the Washington publication said.

The convention is Sept. 3-6.