Former Dem Congressman Who Seconded Obama's Nomination in 2008 Will Speak at GOP Convention

The former Alabama Democratic congressman who seconded President Barack Obama's nomination at the Democratic National Convention in 2008 will make another convention appearance this year -- with the Republicans.

Rep. Artur Davis, once described as "Obama from Alabama," served as a Democrat in the House from 2003 to 2011. He occasionally bucked his party during that time, even voting against Obama's signature health care overhaul. He made a failed bid for Alabama governor in 2010, then in May said he was becoming a Republican.

Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus announced Thursday that Davis would be speaking at the GOP convention in Tampa, Fla., along with Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Gov. Bob McDonnell (R-Va.), Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-La.), Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Rep. Connie Mack (R-Fla.)

"Former Congressman Davis especially will give voice to the frustration and disappointment felt among those who supported President Obama in 2008 and are now hungry for a new direction," Priebus said in a release.

Davis told the Washington Post on Wednesday before Priebus' announcement that he planned to speak for those Americans who have found themselves disillusioned with the president after initially supporting his message of hope and change.

“The one thing that I can bring to the table is to be something of a voice for that group of people,” Davis told the Post.