The DNC is bringing in the Rahmfather.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel was added Monday to the Democratic National Convention's list of speakers, organizers announced.
It's not clear when the former White House chief of staff will speak during the Sept. 4-6 convention, but he's primed to give his former boss, President Barack Obama, a verbal boost. [Update: The Chicago Sun-Times' Lynn Sweet reports Emanuel will speak on the first night of the convention.]
Though Emanuel told reporters last week he wouldn't comment on "every event of the presidential campaign," he hasn't been shy about it. He defended Vice President Joe Biden as rumors swirled of his ouster and bashed Mitt Romney's vice presidential pick, Paul Ryan.
"Paul Ryan, who I served with on both the Ways and Means committee and the budget committee, has ideas. I don't think they're right for the course, for the United States," Emanuel said at an unrelated press event. "The president will make that clear, and I support him on that. A lot of independent economists say his budget would lead to a recession. I don't think a recession is a pro-growth strategy."
Emanuel also attacked Romney for voting against the bailout of the auto industry, a move that happened while Emanuel was chief of staff.
Other DNC speakers announced Monday include California Attorney General Kamala D. Harris, Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine, Sen. John Kerry, Gov. Martin O’Malley, Gov. Deval Patrick and former Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland.
President Bill Clinton and first lady Michelle Obama also are scheduled to speak at the convention. San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro was tapped for the keynote.
