Democrats gathered in Chicago on Monday to support Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign against Republican Donald Trump and to honor President Joe Biden, whose decision to withdraw from the race significantly improved the party’s prospects. The four-day Democratic National Convention, which began Monday, is expected to draw large crowds, including protesters opposed to Biden’s support for Israel’s Gaza offensive.
Biden’s Prime-Time Address and Harris’ Historic Candidacy
Biden, 81, ended his re-election campaign a month ago under pressure from top Democrats concerned about his age. He will deliver a prime-time speech on Monday night, making the case for electing Harris and defeating former President Trump, 78. Harris, 59, who is set to formally accept the Democratic nomination on Thursday night, could become the first female president if elected on November 5. Biden is expected to symbolically pass the torch to her during the convention.
Protests and Platform Debates
A coalition of about 200 social justice organizations, many of them pro-Palestinian, will protest outside the convention. Some pro-Palestinian delegates are pushing for the Democratic Party to amend its platform to restrict weapons sales to Israel. Harris enters the convention with strong momentum, having broken fundraising records and boosted Democratic support in key battleground states.
Trump Campaign Responds with Battleground State Tour
Meanwhile, the Trump campaign will focus on battleground states throughout the convention week to counter Harris’ momentum. Trump, who faces criticism for not condemning recent racist and antisemitic demonstrations in Michigan, will emphasize that hate has no place in the country if he is re-elected.
Notable Speakers at the Convention
The convention will feature speeches from Democratic figures, including former presidential candidates Hillary Clinton, who will speak on Monday, and Barack Obama, who will speak on Tuesday. Former President Bill Clinton is scheduled to speak on Wednesday.
