Barack Obama at the 2004 Democratic National Convention

Then Illinois State Senator Barack Obama and U.S. Senator John Kerry (D-MA) share a word while at the 2004 Democratic National Convention.

Kerry became the Democratic nominee for President of the United States while Obama was a brand new senator. Kerry ended up losing the election to incumbent President George W. Bush while Obama won his bid for the open U.S. Senate seat in Illinois. Just a little more than four years later, Obama won his bid for President of the United States. It was his appearance at this event, though, that many believed launched his successful run.

Barack Obama's 2004 DNC Speech - Complete Text