List of keynote speakers at United States presidential nominating conventions

United States presidential nominating conventions long have traditionally included a keynote speech, typically delivered on the opening day of the convention.

A 2000 report by the Congressional Research Service observed,

The keynote address sets the themes and tone of the convention and often of the general election campaign to follow. Keynote speakers are usually prominent office holders or party officials, chosen because of their national appeal and speaking ability, or because they may be viewed as “rising stars” in the party.
The keynote address is highly partisan in tone and content. It extols the party record and the incumbent President, when the party holds the White House. It attacks the opposition candidates, policies, and record.