Biden to Address Democratic Convention, Endorsing Harris for Presidency

On August 19, 2024, President Joe Biden is set to deliver the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, marking a significant moment in the party's history. This event, held at the United Center, the largest arena by capacity in the United States, will serve as a symbolic transition of leadership from Biden to Vice President Kamala Harris.

Four weeks prior, Biden made the unexpected decision to end his reelection campaign, following a challenging debate performance in June. This move initially sparked concern within the party, but has since led to a consolidation of support behind Harris. The convention, a tradition dating back to 1832, will now focus on promoting Harris as the presidential candidate and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.

In his address, Biden is expected to emphasize the importance of Harris's candidacy and warn about the potential consequences of Donald Trump's return to the White House. The President will likely highlight his administration's achievements, including the passage of a $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill and the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in late 2019 and significantly impacted global politics and economics.

Biden's swift endorsement of Harris following his campaign suspension has facilitated a smooth transition of his political operation to the Vice President. This move has effectively prevented any internal party conflicts over leadership succession at the convention.

"History is in your hands."

While Biden's role at the convention will be reduced compared to his original plans as a nominee, his influence will still be evident. The convention's branding, including its logo and signage, will incorporate elements of Biden's campaign and his characteristic phrases, known as "Biden-isms."

Harris, who made history as the first woman, first African American, and first Asian American to be elected Vice President, will build her campaign on the foundation of Biden's policies. She is scheduled to deliver her acceptance speech on August 22, taking center stage as the party's new standard-bearer.

As Biden prepares to step back from the spotlight, his address will serve as a culmination of his five-decade career in Democratic politics, which began with his election to the Senate in 1972. The presence of First Lady Jill Biden and other family members at the convention underscores the personal significance of this moment for the Biden family.

This convention marks Chicago's 11th time hosting the event, more than any other city in the nation's history. As the Democratic Party, symbolized by the donkey since the 1870s, looks to the future, it faces the challenge of maintaining unity and momentum in the upcoming presidential election, where the unique Electoral College system, rather than the popular vote, will determine the outcome.