The image of Hillary Clinton standing on the world stage as the president of the United States tantalises Democrats meeting this week in Philadelphia. If she's elected in November, Clinton will join German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister Theresa May in a troika of women holding the reins of three of the world's most powerful countries.
Delegates to the Democratic National Convention told dpa the historic nomination of the first woman to head a major party ticket matters because Clinton understands women's issues, will be compassionate and will inspire young women around the world to become leaders.
"Every other continent in the world has had female leaders except us, the United States, and we are supposed to be a world leader," said Donna S Edwards, 60, a delegate from Maryland. "What is wrong with us? This is wrong."
Edwards said her own personal experience as a union leader showed her how important it is for women to be in on the discussion, especially when the subject is health care, personal finance or anything to do with families.
"I think it also brings another whole dimension to policy making. We have found that when we are in the room, policy changes are more in depth," Edwards said. "There is more thought given to family and future. It brings a compassion. It brings an empathy."
Jennifer L McNally, 45, a delegate from Ohio, also believes it's time to elect a woman to the White House and thinks it would make a difference.
"We'll see more collaboration," said McNally. "We'll see more efforts towards peaceful resolution to conflict. And I think there will be a greater sense of humanity shown toward women especially and families and children."
Some women at the convention said they believed that men tend to be more disciplined and organised when they know they have to work with a woman to get something done. They come to the table better prepared because they know the women will be well prepared, one official said.
Many delegates and one of the speakers said they believed that electing a woman would be an inspiration to girls all over the world.
"It gives every daughter an opportunity to hope and dream that anything is possible," said Jody Oliver, 61, a delegate from Maryland.
Oliver said male leaders might know women but can't interpret what women need.
"We are more calm and more inspirational than men," said Oliver.
Jeremy Bash, a security advisor to Clinton's campaign, said the US is entering a time when anything is possible for American girls. As a dad of three daughters, he said, that's inspirational.
He said he didn't know whether it would have an impact on diplomacy. It would depend on her approach.
He noted that Clinton has negotiated cease-fires in the Middle East, helped bring countries into alliances that have strengthened sanctions against Iran and has worked closely with US allies and partners. She takes these issues very seriously, he said, and understands the importance of personal relationships.
One male delegate who spoke to dpa feels just as strongly about electing Clinton, describing her as brilliant and caring.
"This is very important for the country - to have woman president," said Jim Roosevelt, 70, noting that his grandmother, Eleanor Roosevelt, who was first lady of the United States from 1933-45, did not have the right to vote as young woman.
Clinton is "uniquely qualified" to be president, and even if she weren't, she still would be a better candidate than Republican Donald Trump, he said. Men don't feel they are being pushed aside by her candidacy, he said, adding, "I think men have had a good long run."
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