Ann Richards Keynote Address / July 18, 1988 / Democratic Convention; Ann Richards Keynote Address / July 18, 1988 / Democratic Convention
- Ann Richards takes the podium as "Deep in the Heart of Texas" is played; audience applauds
- Richards begins address
- Richards discusses her childhood during the Depression
- Richards reads an excerpt from a letter she received from a young woman in Texas
- Richards criticizes Republicans for dividing Americans into "special interests" and ignoring their needs
- Richards states that Democrats believe in equal opportunity, discusses the importance of public services and a social safety net
- Richards emphasizes the need for leaders "who want us to be all that we can be," praises Jesse Jackson
- Richards criticizes Ronald Reagan for being indifferent to Americans' concerns
- Richards characterizes George H. W. Bush as having been "born with a silver foot in his mouth"
- Richards describes the Reagan administration as being dishonest about its failed policies, criticizes the administration for prioritizing the nation's military strength over its economic health
- Richards reminisces about leaders in previous decades who worked to improve Americans' lives, states that Michael Dukakis represents these values
- Richards praises Lloyd Bentsen for his ability to bring Americans together
- Richards says that the election is "a contest between those who are satisfied with what they have and those who know we can do better"
- Richards discusses her granddaughter and the "continuity of life that unites us"
- Richards describes America as "the greatest nation," whose strength is derived from ordinary people
- Richards concludes address and exits to "Deep in the Heart of Texas"