US: Stars and ex-leaders on hand to open Obama Center

Progressive-leaning outlets emphasize the cultural significance and inspirational mission, highlighting the array of musical performances and framing the center as a community-focused civic space designed to encourage social change.

Centrist outlets focus on the political dimensions, noting the convergence of Democratic figures and multiple former presidents in Chicago during an important electoral period, while emphasizing the impressive lineup of celebrity performers.

Conservative-leaning outlets highlight Trump's exclusion from the event—explicitly framing the opening as occurring 'without an invitation for Trump'—and stress the substantial cost, characterizing it as a partisan Democratic gathering.