Video: Kamala Harris and Tim Walz make a pit stop at Sheetz, grab Doritos
This week, the Democratic Party will unveil a revitalized image to a divided nation, bolstered by the momentum and optimism surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris’ rise to the top of the ticket. The four-day convention in Chicago, which begins on Monday, aims to celebrate and solidify Harris as President
Joe Biden’s successor and strengthen her campaign to defeat Republican Donald Trump in the upcoming November election.
A Party United?
After a turbulent month of political shifts, the Democratic Party enters the convention on a wave of renewed enthusiasm. But beneath the surface, significant questions remain about the depth of Harris’ support and the durability of her coalition. Just weeks ago, Democrats were fractured over key issues like foreign policy and strategy, with many doubting Biden’s ability to lead. Now, the convention will serve as a critical moment to present Harris as the party’s unifying figure.
Spotlight on Harris and Her New Running Mate
For many Americans, this convention will be their first extended look at Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. The way Democrats showcase this new duo will be vital, especially as Trump embarks on a weeklong counteroffensive aimed at undermining their message.
Protesters, including thousands of progressives, are expected to descend on Chicago to criticize the Biden-Harris administration’s support for Israel’s actions in Gaza. Party leaders, however, hope these demonstrations won’t overshadow the convention’s official program, which features a lineup of current and former Democratic stars.
Biden’s Farewell Address
The convention will also mark a graceful exit for President Joe Biden, who will deliver a keynote address on Monday. Biden, who has faced growing concerns about his age and abilities, made the decision to step aside and endorse Harris, paving the way for her candidacy. His speech is expected to focus on his achievements while also taking sharp aim at Trump.
Trump, on the other hand, has already dismissed Biden’s speaking slot as “convention death valley,” predicting low ratings. He continues to criticize the convention, claiming it was rigged in favor of Harris, despite Biden’s primary victory.
Harris’ Historic Firsts
The convention will lean heavily into Harris’ potential to make history as the first woman, the first Black woman, and the first person of South Asian descent to reach the Oval Office. Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton expressed her excitement, saying, “I wasn’t sure I would see this particular moment in my lifetime, to see a Black woman on the cusp of becoming our next president.”
What’s at Stake?
The stakes couldn’t be higher, with recent polls showing a tight race between Harris and Trump in key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin. While Harris has energized many within her party, Trump continues to maintain an advantage on issues like the economy and immigration.
As the convention unfolds, Democrats hope to leave Chicago more united and energized than ever before, ready to face the final stretch of the campaign.
Trump’s Counteroffensive
Trump will not cede the spotlight to Democrats without a fight. His campaign has planned daily stops in swing states, including Pennsylvania, Michigan, North Carolina, Arizona, and Nevada. Additionally, high-profile Republicans such as Florida Sen. Rick Scott and Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson will hold news conferences in Chicago to counter the Democratic narrative.
Despite the high energy surrounding Harris’ nomination, Democrats are keenly aware that the race is far from over. The focus remains on securing 270 Electoral College votes and winning key battleground states.
