Clinton lived up to his billing as the marquee speaker on the first night of the Democratic National Convention. He wowed Utah's delegation just as he did thousands of other Democrats packed into the Fleet Center.

Utahns were on their feet, hollering and whistling for Clinton's best lines, and there were many in the nightcap speech. "He still has it," said delegate Andy Gallegos.

"Can we vote for him again?" asked Utah Democratic Chairman Donald Dunn.

Michael Picardi, delegate and head of the Stonewall Democrats gay-rights caucus, said he hopes Kerry's campaign is smart enough to use Clinton's help in winning the Nov. 2 election.

"Nobody can get to the people like Clinton does," said Picardi.

Tooele delegate Beverly White said the speech was a home run even by Clinton's high standards. "Bush better get himself a better speech writer," White warned.

dharrie@sltrib.com