President Biden is set to give a primetime address on the first night of the Democratic National Convention, according to multiple reports.
Originally expected to close the convention with an acceptance speech for the Democratic presidential nomination, Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race has led to a reorganization of the event. The first evening, scheduled for August 19, will now feature tributes to the former president and a passing of the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris as she begins her own presidential campaign.
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Recent announcements from DNC officials confirm Harris as the sole candidate qualified for the Democratic presidential ballot after Biden’s withdrawal. A virtual roll call will be conducted to officially nominate her as the party’s candidate from August 1 to August 5.
Harris is expected to deliver her nominee acceptance speech on the final night of the DNC, August 22. Additionally, her choice for a running mate will also address the convention on August 21, with names such as Gov. Josh Shapiro, Sen. Mark Kelly, and Secretary Pete Buttigieg circulating as potential picks.
Former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff, and former first ladies may also speak during the four-day convention, as reported by CNN.
The DNC will be held at Chicago’s United Center with an anticipated attendance of over 50,000.
