doi:10.7916/pabn-gw84Oral history interview with Daniel L. Shoman Jr., 2022Shoman, Danieloral historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesPolitical campaigns--United StatesCommunication in politics--United StatesCampaign management--United StatesPolitics, Practical--United StatesIllinois Politics and governmentUnited States Politics and governmentShoman, DanielObama, BarackObama, Michelle, 1964-Democratic National Convention Boston, Mass.) (2004Daniel Shomon discusses his relationship with Barack Obama and his work in support of Obama's political and legislative career, including through his service as a lead strategist and staffer in Obama's office in the Illinois Senate and on Obama's campaigns for the U.S. Congress from Illinois' first congressional district in 2000 and to the U.S. Senate in 2004. Shoman describes his initial impressions of Obama around the time of his election to the Illinois Senate in 1996, Obama's approach to service in the Senate, important relationships that Obama developed with Senate colleagues and power brokers, and legislative and policy efforts with which Obama was closely involved. Shomon also outlines the political and electoral contexts that shaped Obama's campaigns in 2000 and 2004, and shares memories of Obama's appearances in southern Illinois, as they worked to build his political appeal among downstate voters and communities. Also discussed are the significance of Obama's relationship with Paul Simon; the key bases of Obama's support; Obama's maturation as a public speaker, campaigner, and legislator; Michelle Obama's role on the campaign trail; and Shomon's memory of Obama's keynote address to the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston, Massachusetts