Each night of the convention, the Midway will be providing a blog to describe the events inside the United Center. These running updates will help share a sense of what is happening behind the convention’s doors.
Aug. 22
At 9:30 p.m. the culmination of the evening and the week of convention events arrived. Vice President Kamala Harris was met with a deafening standing applause, chants and cheering for at least three minutes, as she walked onto the stage. She started her speech by addressing her family members, specifically touching on her mother’s story. “She taught us to never complain about injustice, but to do something about it,” she said.
Near the middle of her speech, Ms. Harris accepted her nomination and said, “I promise to be a president for all Americans.” She then touched on the dangers of Donald Trump’s intentions, saying, “The consequences of putting Donald Trump back in the White House are extremely serious.” Ms. Harris reminded her audience of what may happen even if Mr. Trump is not elected again, referencing the Jan. 6 attacks. Chants of “We are not going back” filled the stadium.
Every seat in every row of the United Center was filled end-to-end with supporters, politicians, content creators and media. Vertical signs displaying “K-A-M-A-L-A” and American flags were held up during the entirety of Ms. Harris’s speech.
Ms. Harris moved onto focusing on the economy, specifically emphasizing her support of the middle class tax cut, illustrating the difference between her message versus that of Mr. Trump. She then said she would proudly sign a reproductive freedom bill into law when elected president. She added lines about climate change, voting rights, immigration laws, national security and the Israel-Gaza war.
After finishing up her inspiring speech, Ms. Harris was met with another deafening standing applause. Blue and red confetti began falling from the ceiling of the United Center as Ms. Harris’s family members joined her on stage. Shortly after, thousands of blue, red and white balloons were released from the ceiling as well, falling down onto the supportive audience — still cheering loudly after a long, but exciting, four days of the DNC.
At 9:16 p.m., Maya Harris spoke about her older sister and how their mother would be proud. Maya Harris was followed by North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, longtime friend of Kamala Harris since they each served as attorney general of their state. Referencing Ms. Harris, he said, “I know her, and tonight I want the American people to know — even if you don’t agree with her, Kamala Harris will fight for you to the very end.”
At around 9:09 p.m., former U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois emphasized Mr. Trump’s negative impact on the Republican party itself. He paused his speech while the crowd loudly chanted “U-S-A.” Mr. Kinzinger said, “Donald Trump is a weak man, pretending he is strong. He is a small man pretending to be big. He is a faithless man pretending to be righteous. He’s a perpetrator who can’t stop playing the victim.” Ending the list, he powerfully said, “Donald Trump has suffocated the soul of the Republican Party.”
At 9 p.m., Gov. Gretchen Whitmer approached the stage. Her speech was powerful and included many jokes. In reference to Mr. Trump, she asked, “You think he’s ever been to a grocery store?” In contrast, she said, “But Kamala Harris, she gets us. She sees us. She is us.”
At 8:54 p.m., U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego of Arizona spoke on the importance of U.S. veterans. Then, he brought out around 30 Democratic veterans, including Illinois Sen. Tammy Duckworth. He said, “They are the reason we can dream.”
At 8:48 p.m., Leon E. Panetta, former U.S. Secretary of Defense walked onto the stage. “Nobody attacks our country and gets away with it,” he said. “To defend our democracy from tyrants and terrorists, we need Kamala Harris behind the Resolute Desk.” In response to his speech, the crowd held up their “USA” signs and handheld American flags.
Around 8:40 p.m., U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona gave his remarks, starting the program’s section on national security. “Donald Trump skipped his intelligence briefings,” he said. “He was too busy sucking up to dictators, and dreaming of becoming one himself.”
At around 8:37 p.m., there was a performance from the musician P!nk. She and others sang, “What about us” to a stadium glowing in the color pink. One by one, some audience members turned on their phone flashlights, waving them to the emotional song.
At around 8:32 p.m., erupting cheers met former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona. After surviving a gunshot to the head, Ms. Gliffords shared her inspiring story. “I learned to talk again, one word at a time,” she said. “Thank you Joe Biden, thank you for everything. Joe is a great President, my friend Kamala will be a great President. She has grit.” As she left the stage, chants of “Gabby” followed her.
At 8:24 p.m., the program’s section themed “Freedom from gun violence” started. U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath of Georgia was joined by everyday people with horrific gun violence stories. The audience became silent as Abbey Clements shared her story. She said, “Twenty beautiful children and six of my beautiful colleagues were killed. They should still be here.” Kim Rubio was brought to tears as she told her daughter’s story — she was killed by gun violence. She said, “I reach out for the daughter I will never hold again.” Melody McFadden of Charleston, South Carolina, spoke, followed by Edgar Vilchez of Chicago. Mr. Wilchez was in high school when his classmate was shot. He said, “I learned how to run, how to hide and drop.”
The five speeches were followed by an inspiring chant: “Not one more.”
At around 8 p.m., Kamala Harris’s nieces, Amara and Leela taught the crowd how to pronounce Ms. Harriss’s name by making the crowd chant, “Comma-La.”
Around 7:44 p.m., seven everyday Americans told their personal stories about how Ms. Harris’s policies affect them. The audience gave a standing ovation for the family members of a Capitol police officer who died on Jan. 6, Craig Sicknick and Gail DeVore.
At 7:40 p.m., U.S. Rep. Colin Allred of Texas walked onto the stage, emphasizing his readiness to beat Ted Cruz in the upcoming Senate election. As he left the stage, the crowd repeatedly chanted “Beat Ted Cruz.”
At 7:31 p.m., U.S. Rep Maxwell Frost of Florida, first Gen Z representative, further supported the climate change movement, saying, “Fighting the climate crisis is patriotic.”
At 7:22 p.m., Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland started the climate change section of the program. She said, “We have a responsibility to our planet. Donald Trump never learned that lesson. He called the climate crisis a hoax.” In response to this comment, the crowd loudly booed.
Around 7:10 p.m., six elected officials and everyday people gave joint remarks, including Lisa Madigan, former Attorney General of Illinois — and Lab parent. Speaking about Ms. Harris, Ms. Madigan said, “For as long as I have known her, Kamala Harris has always taken principled positions and never wavered.”
At 6:53 p.m., Rev. Al Sharpton, also an opinion host on MSNBC, began his speech, an introduction to four of the famous Central Park Five, which he called the “Exonerated Five.” He emphasized that America will not go back on civil rights, voting rights, LGBTQ rights, abortion rights and more. In response, the crowd powerfully chanted, “Not going back!”
Four of the “Exonerated Five” walked onto the stage: Dr. Yusef Salaam, member of the New York City Council, and activists Korey Wise, Raymond Santana and Kevin Richardson. Recalling their experience, Mr. Wise said, “Our youth was stolen from us […] Every day when we walked into the courtroom, people screamed at us, threatened us, because of Donald Trump.” He ended with a powerful statement: “We were innocent kids, but we served a total of 41 years in prison.”
Then, Dr. Salaam started his speech. Referencing Mr. Trump, Dr. Salaam said, “He has never changed, and he never will.” He started a chant: “One day, see us.” He ended his speech by saying, “One day, America will say goodbye to that hateful man.”
At around 6:24 p.m., photojournalist Eli Raikhel saw Vivek Ramaswamy surrounded by numerous security guards and swarmed by news media and fans.
At 6:31 p.m., U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts walked onto the stage, receiving a standing ovation for at least two minutes that moved her to tears. Near the end of her speech, she said, “Trust Donald Trump and JD Vance to look over your family? […] I wouldn’t trust them to move my couch.”
At around 6:14 p.m., U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse of Colorado started his speech about Ms. Harris. He said, “As president, she will build a better future, a more affordable future.” Two more speakers followed.
At around 6:08 p.m., U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin started her speech by saying, “I love Democrats.” Later, she said, “The Wisconsin state motto is ‘Forward,’ and my friends, that’s where we are headed.”
At 6:04 p.m., a video screened above the stadium, showing former President Donald Trump voters speaking about their support for Kamala Harris in this election. In reference to Mr. Trump, one voter said, “He’s never cared about ordinary people.”
Around 6 p.m., various representatives, senators and more spoke on different topics, exciting the crowd. Speakers included Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association; Sen. Alex Padilla of California; Marcia L. Fudge, former secretary of Housing and Urban Development; and U.S. Rep. Ted W. Lieu of California.
At 5:50 p.m., DJ Metro hyped up the stadium, and the energetic crowd began clapping, dancing and jumping up and down.
Around 5:39 p.m., the lights dimmed, and the crowd dressed in white, now glowing in the dark, erupted in cheers in a wave across the stadium. Then, a video promoting Kamala Harris’s story began. It emphasized how Ms. Harris wanted to be a prosecutor was to protect people who couldn’t protect themselves, in specific reference to sexual assault. After speaking on gun safety, the video moved on to review all of Ms. Harris’s policies since becoming vice president.
At 5:30 p.m., the program started with the slam of a gavel. The stadium was filled with a sea of white — women in reference to the suffrage movement.
Aug. 21
At 10:20 p.m. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the vice presidential nominee, walked out on stage to a sea of “Coach Walz” signs bobbing in the crowd and an uproar of cheers. Gov. Walz discussed the value and importance of contributing to your community. He mentioned his participation in the U.S. Army. He said, “Everybody belongs, and everybody has a place to contribute.” He emphasized how as a teacher, his students inspired him to run for Congress. He said they inspired him by believing in a common good: he said, “The belief that a person can make a real difference for their neighbors.” He also touched on his advocacy for reproductive rights in Minnesota. He emphasized the importance of freedom for this campaign. Gov. Walz said, “When we Democrats talk about freedom, we mean the freedom to make a better life for yourself and the people you love.” After his speech, his wife, Gwen, and children, Hope and Gus, joined him on stage with extended family to loud cheers from the audience.
At 10:15 p.m. Benjamin C. Ingman, former student of Gov. Walz, took the stage. After giving some remarks to Gov. Tim Walz’s character, the former high school football players that Gov. Walz coached to the state championship came to the stage dressed in their high school jerseys.
At 10:05 p.m. U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota entered the stage to start introductions of Gov. Tim Walz. She said, “Tim has brought Minnesota together. And together, with Ms. Kamala Harris, I know he will do the same with America.”
At 9:55 p.m. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg took the stage. Buttigieg criticized Mr. Trump for choices he made during his presidency including tax cuts for the rich. He also remarked on the importance of upholding LGBTQ+ rights, speaking from his personal experience of the development of same-sex marriage laws throughout his lifetime. Then, John Legend performed.
At 9:45 p.m. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore took the stage. “We are a nation of patriots who serve when the mission is hard and who serve when the destination is uncertain.”
At 9:30 p.m. Oprah Winfrey made a surprise appearance. She emphasized that upholding a democracy takes work and perseverance. She said, “Every now and then it requires standing up to life’s bullies.” She later added, “Civilized debate is vital to democracy and it is the best of America.” She criticized Mr. Trump for his lack of respect for American democracy. She said, “I’m a registered independent who’s proud to vote again and again and again because that’s what Americans do.” She then added, “We’re not going back.” The crowds throughout the room stood and roared, chanting “Kamala.”
At 9:20 p.m. author and activist Amanda Gorman took the stage and performed her poem, “This Sacred Scene,” about freedom and the importance of the vote. She said, “Tomorrow is not written by our odds of hardship but by the audacity of our hope, by the vitality of our votes. Only now approaching this rare air we are aware that the American dream is no dream at all but instead a dare that we all dream together.” She ended to a standing ovation.
At 9:15 p.m. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro took the stage as delegates on the floor stood and cheered, waving signs. He criticized the idea of freedom Mr. Trump has pushed: he said, “It’s not freedom to tell women to do what with their bodies.” He said, “Democrats — we are the party of real freedom.” He later added, “Real freedom is when she can join a union, marry who she loves, start a family on her own terms, have clean air and live a life where she is respected for who she is.”
At 9:10 p.m. U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, the first Latina in the U.S. Senate, took the stage. She described Vice President Harris as a strong leader. She said, “I know she will fight for our families and our freedoms. Now, we have to fight for her.”
At 9:05 p.m. Former U.S. Associate Attorney General and Kamala Harris’ brother-in-law Tony West discussed Vice President Harris’ character as a prosecutor. He characterized her as thoughtful and mindful of the futures of people. He said, “And Kamala says, ‘If you know what to stand for then you know what to fight for.’”
At 8:55 p.m. Vice President Harris’ nephews and niece, Alexander Hudlin, Jasper Emhoff and Arden Emhoff, spoke about their “Auntie” and her role in their lives as a strong, caring figure who makes everyone feel respected and heard.
At around 8:45 p.m. Speaker Emerita of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi described Vice President Harris as wise, eloquent and a strong leader. She also conveyed her admiration of Gov. Tim Walz, characterizing him as strong and courageous. Rep. Pelosi also touched on the Jan. 6 insurrection and Donald Trump’s role. She said, “Let us not forget who assaulted democracy on January 6th. He did. But let us not forget who saved democracy after that. We did.”
At 8:20 p.m. former President Bill Clinton took the stage to a standing ovation throughout the room. Mr. Clinton acknowledged the unique position President Biden was in during the 2020 election and honored his decision to voluntarily give up the nomination. The crowd stood and chanted, “Thank you, Joe.”
At around 8:10 p.m. U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York took the stage and stated his support for Vice President Harris. He said, “Trump is a chaos agent who is focused on himself, not the American people.” He later added, “We are not going back.” Delegates on the floor stood and chanted, “Not going back.”
At 8 p.m. ‘Saturday Night Live’ star Kenan Thompson performed a skit involving the risks of Project 2025, including the ban of abortions and the removal of the education department. Soon after, actress and comedian Mindy Kaling took the stage and praised Vice President Harris’ character.
At 7:50 p.m. the camera panned from the stage to content creator Olivia Julianna at the special section stage, who touched on the important role of Gen Z in this upcoming election. She then introduced Stevie Wonder.
At 7:40 p.m., several speakers discussed the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021. Of the insurrectionists, U.S. Rep. Bennie G. Thompson of Mississippi, the chair of the January 6 Committee, said, “They did it to rob millions of Americans of their votes.” Of Mr. Trump, he said, “He would rather subvert democracy than submit to it.” Retired United States Capitol Police Officer Aquilino Gonell then took the stage. A standing ovation occurred throughout the room. He described his experience at the Capitol on Jan. 6. He said, “I was assaulted with a pole attached to the American flag.” He added, “I still feel it. To Donald Trump, I say, ‘Why don’t you?’” U.S. Rep. Andy Kim of New Jersey also discussed his experience cleaning up the aftermath of Jan. 6 at the Capitol.
At 7:30 p.m., former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan said, “I am a Republican, but tonight I stand here as an American.” He discussed Trump as a threat to democracy and said that he has witnessed his party become more and more into a cult. He said, “If you vote for Kamala Harris in 2024 you are not a Democrat, you are a patriot.” The crowd responded by chanting, “USA” repeatedly.
At around 7:25 p.m., Olivia Troye, former Trump administration national security official, discussed Mr. Trump laying the groundwork to undermine this election. “That’s what Trump wants because it’s the only way he’ll win.” She added that she supports Vice President Harris, “not because we agree on every issue, but because we agree on the most important issue — protecting our freedom.”
At around 7:20 p.m., Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Pete Aguilar took the stage. He said, “Only Kamala Harris and Tim Walz will protect the American dream so that every family can earn a living, buy a home, and reach their potential.” He criticized Mr. Trump’s view of the American family and said that the Latino idea of the American dream is one Vice President Harris would support. Content creator Carlos Eduardo Espina then took the stage and also emphasized the importance of opportunity and freedom.
At 7:15 p.m. Sheriff of Bexar County Javier Salazar said that Vice President Harris holds the same view of the law that he does. “We fight to serve and we protect the laws,” he said, adding, “And when we fight, we win.” Delegates on the floor stood and cheered.
At 6:45 p.m. Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg, parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a hostage of Hamas in Gaza, took the stage. The crowd stood and cheered as Ms. Goldberg choked back tears. Other members of the crowd chanted “bring them home.” Ms. Goldberg described the personality of their son, Hersh, who has been held hostage since the attack on Gaza on Oct. 7 — 320 days ago — when Hersh was taken hostage by Hamas at a music festival in Israel. Mr. Polin said, “This is not a political issue. It is a humanitarian issue.” Both parents thanked President Biden and Vice President Harris for their support. Ms. Goldberg said, “Hersh, if you can hear us, we love you. Stay strong. Survive.”
At around 6:40, Dana Nessel, attorney general of Michigan, applauded Ms. Harris’ support of same-sex marriage and of the LGBTQ+ community. She also emphasized the value of Ms. Harris’ advocacy for reproductive rights.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison discussed holding people accountable for the murder of George Floyd. He mentioned the innocent lives lost in Gaza and emphasized his support of them.
A special access stage including content creators is located off to the side of the floor. Some of them filmed the scene around them with their phones while others streamed the speakers.
At around 6:15 p.m. several politicians discussed the risks of Project 2025, including the banning of reproductive rights in all states and the teaching of racist sentiments in schools. In reference to Mr. Trump and Mr. Vance, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said, “they’re not just weird — they’re dangerous.” Meanwhile, on the floor, delegates cheered in support.
At around 6:05 The Honorable Tom Suozzi talks about the immigrant experience. He said, “To be a nation of immigrants is hard sometimes too. You have to work for it.” Later, he said, “This nation built by immigrants is a rare and beautiful thing.”
CEO of Voto Latino Maria Teresa Kumar argues for the importance of Latinos in elections. She said, “When Latinos vote, Democrats win.”
At around 5:45 p.m. the program begins under the theme of “Freedom” with four speakers discussing the importance of reproductive rights and availability of infertility treatments: Mini Timmaraju, CEO of Reproductive Freedom for All; Alexis McGill Johnson, CEO of Planned Parenthood, who discussed the importance of reproductive rights. “We trust women.” She praised Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz for starting a family with in vitro fertilization. Soon after, former Planned Parenthood CEO Cecile Richards also discussed the importance of reproductive rights and availability of infertility treatment
Aug. 20
At about 10:03 p.m., former President Barack Obama delivered the closing speech of the evening, where he contrasted Kamala Harris to Donald Trump in regards to personality and policy while stressing mutual respect between “fellow citizens” across the political spectrum ahead of the election. He said, “And we believe that freedom requires us to recognize that other people have the freedom to make choices that are different than ours.” He also spoke about what he thinks democracy should look like and how he feels political polarization is impeding progress. He praised President Joe Biden’s decision to step down as the 2024 nominee and endorse Ms. Harris. Mr. Obama said, “Now, the torch has been passed. Now, it is up to all of us to fight for the America we believe in.”
At about 9:40 p.m., former first lady Michelle Obama conveyed her perception of the race between Kamala Harris – whom she related to and endorsed on a personal level – and Donald Trump – whom she criticized heavily. Ms. Obama spoke about the experiences of women of color like Ms. Harris and herself, explaining the role of their individual mothers in their shared establishing values of hard work. Ms. Obama said about Trump, “See, his limited, narrow view of the world made him feel threatened by the existence of two hardworking, highly educated, successful people who happen to be Black.” In her message to voters, she said, “We cannot be our own worst enemies.”
At about 9:25 p.m., a video showcased the relationship of Kamala Harris and husband Doug Emhoff. Mr. Emhoff, a lawyer who now teaches law, shared the story of how he met – and fell in love with – Ms. Harris. Calling her “a joyful warrior,” Mr. Emhoff connected the qualities he loves about her to values he believes that supporters admire, too. He said, “She’s always been there for our children, and I know she’ll always be there for yours, too.” Delegates on the crowd held signs with just his first name: Doug.
At about 9:17 p.m., U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois called Trump “a coward” for his stance on reproductive freedom, sharing her personal experience with in vitro fertilization and describing her family’s struggle. She said Republicans would limit access to IVF. “Trump’s anti-woman crusade has put other Americans’ right to have their own families at risk,” she said, later adding, “Stay out of our doctor’s offices, and while you’re at it, stay out of the Oval Office, too.”
At about 9:14 p.m., lifelong Republican and mayor John Giles of Mesa, Arizona, explained how Donald Trump’s politics turned him away from the party. He said the late Sen. John McCain’s Republican Party is no longer existent.
At about 9:05 p.m., Maryland Senate candidate Angela Alsobrooks delivered the keynote speech, encapsulating Kamala Harris’ campaign as one of progression. She repeatedly emphasized “We are not going back,” speaking on issues like reproductive freedom.
At about 8:40 p.m., Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker criticized Donald Trump. He called Mr. Trump a “con artist.” He also said about Mr. Trump, “Everything he has achieved in his own life has been by hurting someone else.” Mr. Pritzker also touched on issues like LGBTQ+ rights, gun control and education curriculum. He said, “We think the government should help you prosper, not police who you’re sleeping with.”
At about 8:27 p.m., U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont emphasized Senate efforts from the COVID-19 pandemic. He said, “When the political will is there, the government can effectively deliver to the people of America.” He honed in on improving the economy, expressing support for raising the minimum wage, increasing access to higher education and lowering costs for prescription drugs. He also touched on the war in Gaza, endorsing an immediate ceasefire, among other political issues.
At about 8:17 p.m., Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York came out to speak about America’s future. Projecting optimism about races down the ballot in the upcoming election, he focused on the Senate, comparing the Democratic Senate candidates to Republican ones. He also said Trump “is a guy who peddles anti semitic stereotypes,” pointing to a blue square on his suit representing his stand against hate. He also called out Trump’s so called “Muslim ban.”
For over an hour, each state delegation introduced themselves with pride. The segment was upbeat: for example, at about 7:05 p.m., rapper Lil Jon walked out, performing the chorus of his song “Turn Down for What” as the Georgia delegation was introduced. While the process largely followed alphabetical order, the Minnesotoan and then the California delegates went last to honor Tim Walz and Kamala Harris, respectively. Their votes pushed Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz over the finish line in terms of nominating her. After DNC secretary Jason Rae reaffirmed Kamala Harris and Tim Walz as the official ticket, Ms. Harris spoke from a rally in Milwaukee to get the DNC crowd going.
At about 6:53 p.m., the celebratory roll call began, with each delegation announcing its votes for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. In a concert-like atmosphere, electronic bracelets given to attendees flashed red, white and blue lights, while a DJ played music in the background.
Numerous songs by a band on the podium got the crowd pumped up. The group performed “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars, “Living in America” by James Brown,“Too Sweet” by Hozier and others.
Delegates at the convention exhibited spirit for their states, as Kansas delegates wore Kansas City Chiefs jerseys and Wisconsin delegates wore foam “cheeseheads.”
At about 6:11 p.m., U.S. Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan spoke about how Kamala Harris’ policy stances bolster the theme of “Strong middle class – Strong America,” and how Donald Trump’s don’t. Peters said, “In Michigan, we have to build an economy that builds the middle class, and we know that when unions succeed, all workers win.”
Stephanie Grisham, a former White House press secretary under Trump, revealed details of Trump’s nature behind the scenes. She said, “He has no empathy, no morals, and no fidelity to the truth.”
At about 6 p.m., former Donald Trump voter Kyle Sweester, a construction worker from Alabama, said, “I believe all leaders should bring out the best in us, not the worst. That’s why I’m voting for Kamala Harris.”
At about 5:53 p.m., rapper Common delivered a brief musical performance. “Be fortunate, y’all, for Kamala Harris” he said in one lyric, to much applause.
At about 5:42 p.m., photojournalist Eli Raikhel met former Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot. When asked why young people should be involved in politics, she said “because it’s your country too. We can’t cede power and control – the ultimate tools of democracy – to somebody else. It’s not somebody else, it’s us. Everyone needs to be a part of this.”
At about 4:55 p.m., reporter Taariq Ahmed ran into Michael Cohen, Donald Trump’s former attorney. When asked what about the Harris campaign appeals to voters, he said, “her message.”
Aug. 19
At around 10:30 p.m., President Joe Biden took the stage, following a speech from First Lady Jill Biden commending her husband’s courage and a touching introduction from their daughter Ashley Biden. Mr. Biden was met with a three-minute standing ovation, as the crowd chanted “Thank you, Joe” and “We love Joe.” Mr. Biden then delivered a speech, cementing his legacy of public service. He discussed his love for the country and reviewed his administration’s accomplishments. He saluted Ms. Harris and gathered with her, the First Gentleman Doug Emhoff, and his family onstage to conclude the evening.
At around 10 p.m., U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia took the stage. He gave a powerful speech about voter suppression and criticized Mr. Trump and his campaign for selling Bibles that read “God Bless USA.”
At about 9:40 p.m., Gov. Andy Beshear of Kentucky emphasized the fight for reproductive freedoms after three women, Amanda Zurawski, Kaitlyn Joshua and Hadley Duvall, shared their emotional stories about abortion access.
At about 9:30 p.m., U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas contrasted Vice President Harris’ career with former President Donald Trump’s, including her work as a prosecutor and his 34 felonies. Rep. Crockett said, “We deserve a president who can be a bright light in a sea of darkness. One who can pull us forwards, because we won’t go back.”
At 9:20 p.m., U.S. Rep. Jaime Raskin of Maryland spoke about the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Mr. Raskin said, “We’re going to defeat Donald Trump, the career criminal and incorrigible recidivist con man and his pet chameleon JD Vance.”
At about 9 p.m., former Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, the 2016 presidential nominee, received a standing ovation from an electric audience. She discussed “breaking the highest glass ceiling” and applauded President Biden and Vice President Harris for their work.
At about 8:45 p.m., New York representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was welcomed by an energetic crowd chanting her initials: AOC. In her speech, she applauded Biden’s lifetime of service, and emphasized workers’ and reproductive rights.
At about 8 p.m., Vice President Kamala Harris, the presidential nominee, surprised cheering guests. In her brief remarks, she thanked President Joe Biden for his leadership and lifetime of service.
At 6:30 p.m., photojournalist Olin Nafziger bumped into Georgia politician Stacey Abrams. Ms. Abrams said, “Young voters can change the future in this election. You all have the numbers, you have the power, we’re just waiting for you to use it.”
At 6:30 p.m., delegates approved the nomination of Tim Walz as the vice presidential candidate.
At 6:15 p.m., Reverend Jesse Jackson, a Chicagoan and civil rights icon, appeared onstage alongside his family after a touching tribute. The tribute honored Rev. Jackson’s work, which layed the groundwork for lasting change.
A little after 5:30 p.m., Minyon Moore, the convention committee chair, and Jaime Harrison, the Democratic National Committee chair, gaveled the convention to order. Mr. Harrison emphasized hope and called attention to the historic nomination at a historic convention. Chicago Major Brandon Johnson welcomed the convention to the city. He called attention to Chicagoan changemakers, including Ida B. Wells, Jane Addams, Jesse Jackson, and Barack Obama.
