Opening Ceremonies The Democratic Leadership Council opened its first convention in Cleveland, OH, before approximately 800 delegates, including members of Congress, representatives from state and local governments, and lobbyists from corporations and special interest groups. The goal of the relatively conservative Democratic group was to restore traditional “mainstream” values to the Democratic party and lead it in a “new direction,” preferably to the White House in 1992. Critics of the group charged it was leading Democrats away from their traditional values and constituencies. Speakers at the opening ceremonies took care of parliamentary business, and welcomed delegates to Cleveland and the state of Ohio. close