Need the lowdown on the Democratic National Convention? Crikey has pulled together some of the best commentary and profiles of the principal speakers at the DNC in Denver, Colorado.

DAY TWO — Wednesday 26 August 2008 — “Renewing America’s Promise”

MARK WARNER

The ex-governor of Virginia who has rejected both the presidential and vice presidential nominations in favour of quality family time and a bid for the senate.

Profile of Mark Warner: Ivy Leaguer with rural NASCAR draw. Highly successful venture capitalist becomes even more successful governor of a swing state seen as critical to Democratic presidential hopes in 2008. — Christian Science Monitor

Mark Warner keynotes Dem convention. An innovative businessman known for his ability to work with Republicans, Democrats and Independents, campaign officials said that Warner’s vision for Virginia and his leadership style echoed the Convention’s theme of Americans coming together for change. — Politico

Mark Warner Keynote Speaker At Democratic Convention. Warner, a businessman who became wealthy from work and investments in the cellular telephone industry, ran an exploratory campaign for the 2008 presidential nomination early in the race. He surprised many Democrats when he ultimately decided against running, saying he didn’t want to put the demands of a national run on his family. There was talk he might be a good running mate pick for Obama, but he removed himself from consideration, saying he would only pursue the Senate seat. — Huffington Post

Making His Mark. As Doug Wilder’s campaign manager, Warner—in spite of his overseas honeymoon and a near-fatal burst appendix—helped get America’s first black governor elected in 1989. In Denver Warner is now poised to work similar magic with Obama. — Vanity Fair