On the first night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention, President Joe Biden passed the baton to Vice President and party nominee Kamala Harris in his keynote address. He urged the crowd to vote for freedom, democracy, and America, endorsing Harris and Tim Walz for president and vice president. The event featured a star-studded lineup of speakers, including NBA coach Steve Kerr and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. However, protests outside the convention raged against Biden’s support for Israel’s war in Gaza. Despite tensions, the protests remained largely peaceful, with demonstrators calling for an end to US aid to Israel.
Inside the convention, the focus was on celebrating party diversity and slamming Republican candidate Donald Trump. Harris’s historic candidacy as the first woman, first South Asian person, and first Black woman to potentially occupy the White House was highlighted. Speakers also criticized Trump’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, with personal stories of loss and blame directed at the former president.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez delivered a passionate speech criticizing Trump’s class politics and championing Harris as a fighter for the middle class. The evening also included a surprise appearance by Harris to thank Biden for his presidency as it nears its end.
Overall, the first night of the convention showcased the Democratic party’s unity and diversity, while also highlighting key issues such as foreign policy, COVID-19, and economic equality.