Obama to accept nomination in outdoor arena

Barack Obama will accept the Democratic presidential nomination in the 75,000-seat Denver football stadium instead of the Pepsi center, the party's convention committee announced Monday.

“Sen. Obama’s candidacy has generated an enormous amount of excitement and interest, not only in the Democratic Party but also in the 2008 Convention,” said Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean in a statement. “By bringing the last night of the convention out to the people, we will be able to showcase Barack Obama’s positive, people-centered vision for our country in a big way.”

{mosads}The Illinois senator is expected to accept the nomination on August 28, the final day of the convention and the 45th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a Dream” speech.

The first three days of the convention will take place in the 20,000-seat Pepsi stadium in downtown Denver. By moving Obama's acceptance speech to INVESCO Field at Mile High, also located in the downtown area, Obama will be able to address a larger crowd. However, INVESCO field is an outdoor stadium, while the Pepsi Center is covered seating. 

“Barack Obama’s campaign for change has inspired millions of Americans and brought people into the political process who might never have been involved,” said Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, one of the conventions co-chairs. “This change in the convention program will allow thousands of first-time participants a chance to take part. I can’t think of a better convention finale for our nominee who has made reaching out to voters a hallmark of his campaign.”

The event might help Obama generate excitement for his campaign in Colorado heading into the final weeks of the general election. The state is expected to be a key battleground.