Harris expresses eternal gratitude towards Biden.
For four days, Democratic supporters in Chicago celebrated once again, bolstering their efforts for the presidentical campaign. Surprisingly, candidate Harris emerged on stage initially. Simultaneously, thousands stood outside, demonstrating against Israel's policies in Gaza and the United States' financial support.
The unforeseen presence of Vice President Kamala Harris served as a rallying cry for the Democratic convention. The presidential candidate aimed to energize the delegates for the upcoming battle against her Republican opponent, Donald Trump. She urged, "Let's stand firm for the values we cherish, and let us never forget, when we fight, we prevail!" Harris also commended President Joe Biden, expressing her gratitude and acknowledging his " trailblazing" direction.
Her unexpected visit set the stage for the four-day event in Chicago, underlining party unity and commitment to amassing all resources for the struggle to regain the White House. Though her appearance was not part of the initial plan, she had initially scheduled to ally with President Biden as the main speaker on the first day.
Prior to the convention, Democrats elected Tim Walz as Harris' running mate for the November elections. Delegates cast a mere symbolic vote in honor of Walz, the Minnesota Governor, as Harris' number two. Both were officially chosen prior to the convention through a virtual vote. The accelerated candidate selection process was prompted by printing deadlines for ballots in one specific state, necessitating a minimalistic voting procedure in Chicago. Another symbolic vote was planned for Harris in the early hours of Wednesday.
Tim Walz was scheduled to deliver a significant speech at the convention on Thursday mornings, with Harris set to follow suit on Friday mornings. Harris' appearance marked the conclusion of the four-day gathering, intended to celebrate the duo and provide a boost for the rest of the campaign.
Antipathy towards Israel
The Democratic Convention was met by a substantial pro-Palestinian protest at the outset. Thousands took part in a march aimed at the event site, criticizing Israel's military actions in Gaza and its US backer. Many participants accused Israel of committing "genocide" and implicating the US for involvement via its partnership. As the party of the incumbent president, Democrats held special accountability.
The march gained momentum from diverse support groups. Police were visibly present in considerable numbers to maintain order. CNN reported, citing police sources, that four individuals were arrested after breaching a security barricade near the event site.
The protests brought back memories of anti-war protests around the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago, which took place during the height of the United States' involvement in the Vietnam War. The event saw tens of thousands join city demonstrations, leading to violent encounters with law enforcement and leaving hundreds injured.
The protests against Israel's policies in Gaza and the United States' financial support added an unprecedented layer to the Democratic Convention. Despite these demonstrations, Vice President Kamala Harris urged delegates to remain united and focus on their shared values, emphasizing their ability to overcome challenges.
During the convention, Vice President Harris acknowledged President Joe Biden's " trailblazing" direction and expressed her gratitude for his support, despite the antipathy towards the United States' role in Israel's actions.
