The Democratic National Convention is set to kick off in Chicago on Monday, bringing together approximately 50,000 attendees to the Windy City. Among them are thousands of anti-war activists who plan to hold demonstrations near the United Center.
The first evening of the convention will feature President Joe Biden as the headline speaker, while Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to formally accept the party’s nomination later in the week.
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Here’s a summary of the latest developments:
Rep. Frost on Harris’ Impact on Young People
Florida Democratic Rep. Maxwell Frost, the youngest Gen Z member of Congress, notes that Vice President Kamala Harris running at the top of the party’s ticket has re-energized young people in a way he has not seen before.
Frost, age 27, was a key supporter of President Biden during his reelection campaign. With Biden dropping out of the race and endorsing Harris, Frost is now actively campaigning for the vice president.
In an interview at the Democratic National Convention, Frost praises Harris for bringing a unique energy and authenticity to the table, especially with her ability to connect online.
Protests and Demonstrations
A lack of speakers and attendees was observed at a stage near the United Center, as anti-war activists gathered for a planned march.\
Pro-Israel supporters also made their presence felt during a pro-Palestinian rally, with tensions arising at times but no physical altercations reported.
Schumer’s Political Origin Story
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer shared the story of his journey into politics, highlighting the support he received from labor unions in his early career.
He emphasized the importance of grassroots support and pledged to continue standing by the working class for as long as he holds office.
Biden’s DNC Speech
First lady Jill Biden will precede President Biden’s speech at the DNC, marking what is expected to be a poignant moment for the president amid his decision not to seek a second term.
The speaking program will feature a mix of Democratic Party figures and union leaders, with a focus on highlighting Biden’s achievements during his time in office.
Green Party’s Jill Stein Calls for Ceasefire in Gaza
Green Party candidate Jill Stein urges Democrats to withhold their votes for Harris until she supports a swift ceasefire in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of opposing genocide.
She criticizes the current administration’s handling of the conflict and advocates for third-party candidates who prioritize ending systemic injustices.