The Democratic National Convention (DNC) is set to begin in Chicago, with significant speeches scheduled from prominent Democrats, including President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former President Barack Obama.
Fox 11 reported that the event, which will run from August 19 to August 22, 2024, marks a crucial moment for the Democratic Party as it highlights the successes of the Biden-Harris Administration and sets the stage for Harris's formal nomination and electoral vision alongside Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
On Monday night, President Joe Biden will deliver a keynote address at the DNC in support of Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz. His speech is expected to emphasize the achievements of his administration and outline the future plans and significance of the upcoming election.
Dr. Jill Biden, the First Lady, is also slated to speak on Monday night. While her exact speaking time remains unspecified, her remarks are expected to complement the President’s message, reinforcing the administration's achievements and expressing support for Harris-Walz.
The evening will also feature an address from former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Although the exact timing of her speech is not confirmed, Clinton is expected to reiterate her support for the current administration and endorse the Harris-Walz ticket.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson will kick off the convention on Monday, August 19, with a welcoming speech.
Mayor Johnson expressed confidence in the city's preparation for the event, stating, "The city has been preparing for this moment since the bid was announced, and he's not afraid of anything." His speech is expected to highlight Chicago's readiness to host such a significant political event and its importance to the Democratic Party.
On Tuesday, August 20, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker will welcome Democrats to Chicago, emphasizing the city’s victory in securing the convention.
Pritzker noted, "The city was initially in feverish competition with Atlanta, New York, and Houston, but a little bit of that Chicago bravado put the city's bid over the top." His remarks will likely underscore the strategic importance of Chicago as a political hub for the Democrats.
Former President Barack Obama will take the stage on Tuesday night, August 20. Obama’s speech is anticipated to be one of the highlights of the convention, as he continues to be a unifying figure within the Democratic Party. His endorsement of the Harris-Walz ticket will be crucial in galvanizing support among voters.
On Wednesday night, August 21, former President Bill Clinton will speak before Governor Tim Walz. The Clintons, in a joint statement, expressed their gratitude for President Biden’s leadership, saying, "We join millions of Americans in thanking President Biden for all he has accomplished, standing up for America time and again, with his North Star always being what’s best for the country."
The convention will culminate on Thursday, August 22, when Vice President Kamala Harris officially accepts her nomination as the Democratic candidate for President.
This moment will be historic, as Harris would become the first woman of color to lead a major party's ticket in a U.S. presidential election. Her speech is expected to outline her vision for the country, building on the foundation laid by the Biden-Harris administration.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who will be Harris’s running mate, will also play a significant role throughout the convention. As a rising star within the party, Walz’s speeches will likely focus on his accomplishments in Minnesota and his vision for the future, aligning closely with Harris’s platform.
The 2024 DNC Committee, which confirmed the speaker lineup on Sunday, August 18, has not yet released the full schedule. However, the confirmed speakers indicate a strong showing of party unity and a clear focus on the future.
Other confirmed speakers include Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, all of whom are expected to rally the base and emphasize the stakes of the upcoming election.
As the convention unfolds, each speaker will play a role in building momentum for the Harris-Walz ticket, highlighting the administration’s achievements, and laying out a vision for the future that appeals to a broad coalition of voters.
