National Politics |

New-fangled internet dazzled 1996 DNC in Chicago. Today, experts debate the benefits — and dangers — of online influence.

President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore face the roaring delegates at the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in 1996.

A delegate from Arkansas listens to Vice President Al Gore speak at the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 28, 1996, at the United Center in Chicago.

The Democratic National Convention opened on Aug. 26, 1996, at the United Center, 28 years after the party’s last Chicago visit ended amid violence.

President Bill Clinton, right, first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and their daughter, Chelsea, take part in the end-of-convention celebration on Aug. 29, 1996, at the United Center in Chicago.

Delegates react after incumbent President Bill Clinton finished his nomination speech on Aug. 29, 1996, at the United Center in Chicago.

Button trading was popular amongst attendees at the Democratic National Convention in 1996, with one delegate, center, admitting he was wearing $20,000 worth of buttons.

An Ohio delegate sports Uncle Sam’s colors at the Democratic National Convention in August 1996 in Chicago.

Delegates get into the swing of things as they watch the Macarena dancers perform at the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in August 1996 in Chicago.

Mayor Richard M. Daley, right, autographs a delegate’s floor pass at the Democratic National Convention in 1996 at Chicago’s United Center.