DNC Night 1 Highlights: Kamala Harris Jolts Crowd With Brief Appearance (Updating Live)

As a seasoned moviegoer with a knack for political dramas, I must say that this year’s Democratic National Convention feels like the opening night of a blockbuster sequel. The star-studded cast, the powerful speeches, and the electrifying energy all suggest we are in for an unforgettable ride.


On Monday evening, Kamala Harris began her convention with a short speech that electrified the Democratic attendees present.

Harris expressed her anticipation for an exceptional week ahead. Before expressing gratitude, she acknowledged that President Joe Biden would address the nation later on Monday evening. Her sentiments were deeply appreciative.

After a short biographical video narrated by Jeffrey Wright, backed by Beyonce’s “Freedom” track, she made her grand entrance.

Afterwards, the vice president handed over to host Tony Goldwyn, famously known for portraying the president in the ABC series “Scandal”. Joining a small group of performers on stage, Goldwyn followed Jason Isbell who serenaded “Something More Than Free”, and Mickey Guyton who showcased “Ain’t We All American?”

Goldwyn assured everyone that the upcoming week would provide an opportunity to meet Harris and a stark comparison between Trump’s plans and her views on what lies ahead.

Goldwyn stated, “The message is one of joy, not meanness. It’s about serving the public, not ourselves. It promotes optimism and opportunities instead of chaos and division. This message has made us aware of our true selves.”

In the basement of the United Center, Marisa Tomei, JJ Abrams, and producer Bruce Cohen were found. They expressed their optimism for the ongoing campaign. Notably, Abrams, together with his wife Katie McGrath, have contributed over $3 million to Democratic committees during this election cycle. Additionally, Cohen is also known as a generous donor himself.

DNC Night 1 Highlights: Kamala Harris Jolts Crowd With Brief Appearance (Updating Live)

James Taylor is also on the schedule to perform, leading into Biden’s speech.

On the eve of their grand opening, downtown Chicago buzzed with energy on Monday, filled with party flags, decorative streamers, unofficial t-shirt sellers, and all the customary festivities that accompany a political spectacle arriving in town.

Before the big speeches tonight at the United Center, delegates from across the country took a moment to explore the city. A rally for Palestinians in Gaza attracted approximately 15,000 people, as reported by ABC News Chicago, according to organizers with the Coalition to March on the DNC.

Generally, downtown appeared tranquil, with a sense of stillness also prevailing in the area filled with hotels for delegates, including the shiny Trump Tower, which overlooks the Riverwalk.

On the eastern side of town, I found myself in the bustling McCormick Place, where DemPalooza was taking place – a gathering showcasing various left-leaning groups and initiatives. Although there were platforms for discussions and Q&As, they seemed underutilized. The five-mile gap between McCormick Place and the United Center offers benefits in terms of security and crowd management. However, this distance makes attendees heavily reliant on DNC shuttles connecting hotels and both venues. The expansive security perimeter around the United Center is so vast that ride-share drivers and public transit can’t get too near.

Elections are frequently characterized by catchphrases, and at the event, there were numerous catchy phrases showcased on badges, shirts, and blouses of attendees. Ranging from “Remember January 6th” to “Continue with Kamala and Carry On,” “One More Cat Lover for Kamala,” and “Bring Truth Back Again.”

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2024-08-20 04:46