The 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) is currently underway in Chicago, marking a significant event in the political calendar as Democrats gather to nominate their presidential and vice-presidential candidates and outline their platform for the upcoming election.
Key Highlights and Events
Kamala Harris as the Democratic Nominee
Vice President Kamala Harris is riding a wave of voter enthusiasm into the convention, where she is set to be recognized as the Democratic nominee for President. This comes about a month after President Joe Biden ended his reelection campaign, passing the torch to Harris. The convention includes a roll call vote to formally nominate the presidential and vice-presidential candidates, with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expected to accept the vice-presidential nomination.
Convention Schedule and Speakers
The four-day convention began on Monday, August 19, and will continue through Thursday, August 22. The primary location for the convention is the United Center, where speeches will be delivered and votes will be taken. The official schedule for the entire week has not yet been released, but notable speakers include former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama, former President Bill Clinton, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Democratic Platform
The Democrats unveiled a draft of their platform in July, which includes proposals to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour, make the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit permanent, make child care affordable, and lower health care costs. On reproductive rights, the platform commits to passing legislation to codify abortion protections, strengthening access to contraception, and protecting access to IVF and FDA-approved medication abortion.
Security and Attendance
More than a dozen law enforcement agencies are providing security throughout the convention, with around 50,000 Democratic delegates, volunteers, supporters, and more expected to attend each day. The convention is being livestreamed on NBC Chicago’s website and mobile app, allowing a broader audience to participate virtually.
Historical Context and Comparisons
Comparisons to the 1968 Democratic Convention
The 2024 DNC in Chicago has drawn comparisons to the infamous 1968 Democratic Convention, which was marked by significant protests and clashes with police over the Vietnam War. The 1968 convention saw tens of thousands of protesters in the streets, leading to riots and a radical shift in America’s political and social landscape 13. The fallout from the 1968 convention led to changes in the party’s nominating system, eventually leading to the primary and caucus process used today.
Notable Moments and Speeches
Opening Night
The convention opened on Monday with a series of impactful speeches. President Biden praised his decision to choose Harris as his running mate in 2020, calling it “the best decision I made my whole career”. Hillary Clinton also spoke, expressing her support for Harris and reflecting on her own presidential run. One of the most poignant moments came as Democrats criticized former President Donald Trump for his role in appointing conservative Supreme Court justices, which led to the undoing of Roe v. Wade’s protections for abortion rights.
Day 2 Highlights
Day 2 of the convention featured a keynote speech by former President Barack Obama and an enthusiastic standing ovation for Michelle Obama. Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff delivered a personal speech, reintroducing himself to America. The day also included a lively ceremonial roll call, energizing the crowd as delegates cast their votes for Harris.
Day 3 and Beyond
As the convention heads into its third day, key speakers include Democratic vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz, former President Bill Clinton, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The theme for Wednesday is “A fight for our freedoms,” and the main programming will begin at 5:30 p.m. CT.
Conclusion
The 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago is a pivotal event for the Democratic Party as they rally around Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, outline their platform, and prepare for the upcoming election. With a rich history and significant political implications, the convention continues to capture the attention of the nation.
