- Major political event display: Engrossing details surrounding Democratic conference
In the upcoming days, Chicago, the notable U.S. city, is all set to host a significant event in the ongoing presidential race. The Democrats are heading there for a four-day extravaganza, which was originally intended to officially endorse President Joe Biden for the November election. But, unexpectedly, Biden stepped down in July, paving the way for his vice president, Kamala Harris. The 59-year-old Harris will be the main attraction during this gathering.
Will Harris be officially endorsed at the convention?
Although it might sound a bit complex, the answer is yes and no. Way before the convention, the Democratic Party had already selected its candidate through an advanced digital process due to specific deadlines in one state. Over 4,500 delegates from various states had cast their votes online in early August, declaring Harris as the chosen candidate. Her running mate, Tim Walz, was also selected via the same method. Although there won't be a separate vote for the vice president, there will be ceremonial votes for both Harris and Walz at the Chicago convention. These votes hold symbolic value only.
What else can we expect from the gathering?
Harris and Walz are expected to deliver major speeches at the convention, boosting their supporters and sharing their plans for the future. Several high-ranking members of the party, including Biden, will also speak. Notable appearances by former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, along with Hillary Clinton, the first female presidential candidate nominated by the party in 2016, are also anticipated. Harris and Walz's spouses and some entertainment acts are also part of the agenda. Lastly, the party will formulate its platform for the election.
Outside the convention, there might be a contrasting program, such as protests against the Middle East policy of the Biden-Harris administration.
What's the tentative schedule?
The main events of the convention will unfold in the evenings local time, which translates to the German night. The convention might span over into the German Friday. The exact schedule is yet to be revealed by the party, but some dates are confirmed. As per tradition, Harris is likely to speak at the grand finale on the last evening, while Walz is scheduled to speak a day prior. Biden's appearance is expected on the German night to Tuesday, aiming to show unity within the Democratic Party after some contentious weeks leading up to Biden's withdrawal.
Is the convention primarily about the show?
To some extent, yes. Following the intense debates surrounding Biden's health, the Democrats have emerged with renewed enthusiasm. However, it remains uncertain whether Harris will ultimately win against the Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump. The party is eager to preserve this momentum, and the convention is likely to be shaped as a grand display of rebirth.
Harris' public appearances so far have been meticulously scripted. Ever since she took over as the new face of the campaign, she has avoided interviews and press conferences, limiting herself to scheduled events. However, that may not work post-convention until the election, marking her real test.
The Democratic Party officially declared Kamala Harris as their candidate for the presidential election during an advanced digital process, with her running mate Tim Walz also being selected through the same method. The United States of America, specifically Chicago, will host the convention where Harris and Walz will deliver major speeches and share their plans for the future, with notable appearances from former presidents and other high-ranking members of the party.
