Former Democratic Presidential candidate, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., takes the stage during the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, July 25, 2016.

LIVE BLOG: Democrats Highlight Contrasts With Republicans as Convention Opens

July 25, 2016 4:21 PM update July 25, 2016 10:16 PM

First lady Michelle Obama gave a forceful, impassioned defense of Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton, casting her as the only candidate who can be trusted as a role model for the nation's children. Obama was among the power lineup of speakers taking the stage in Philadelphia at the Democratic National Convention. The convention’s first day was embroiled in controversy over leaked emails that showed how party leaders sought to ease Clinton's path to the nomination by mocking her challenger, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.

Fun facts about Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The first day of the Democratic National Convention was gavelled in by Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, secretary of the Democratic National Committee and mayor of Baltimore.

Congresswoman Marcia Fudge is speaking to the delegates, but Bernie Sanders supporters are being very vocal, chanting, "Bernie." Fudge ends her speech to the delegates, saying, "Let the convention begin!"

Fudge is now telling the delegates she wants to hear their comments and she will be respectful of them if they are respectful of her. She gets loud cheers.

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LIVE BLOG: Democrats Highlight Contrasts With Republicans as Convention Opens