President Joe Biden is scheduled to speak at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, passing on the party leadership symbolically to Vice President Kamala Harris. Biden aims to emphasize the perceived threat to the country if Donald Trump returns to the White House. After facing doubts regarding his chances against the Republican nominee, Biden decided to step down from seeking reelection four weeks ago, receiving a warm welcome now from party officials who previously wanted him to exit the race.
In his address, Biden plans to advocate for Harris as his successor, highlighting Trump’s perceived threat to democracy. He will also showcase his administration’s achievements before transitioning the spotlight to Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, for the remainder of the week. A unified party is rallying behind Harris, thanks to Biden’s early endorsement of her upon suspending his campaign, smoothly passing the torch to his vice president without sparking internal conflicts over the party’s future.
Despite no longer being the presidential nominee, Biden’s influence will be evident at the convention, albeit in a diminished capacity. Speakers are expected to acknowledge Biden’s accomplishments, including leading the country through the COVID-19 crisis and securing crucial investments in infrastructure, climate, and healthcare. Harris is drawing from Biden’s policies as she develops her own initiatives, reflecting a continuation of the administration’s agenda.
The convention’s branding pays tribute to Biden, with references to his campaign logo and quotes from pivotal moments in his political career. Monday’s emphasis will be on “Spread the faith,” a signature Biden phrase. Jill Biden and other family members will be present to witness Biden’s speech as he marks the culmination of his five-decade-long career in Democratic politics. Harris is slated to attend as well, while Biden is not scheduled to be present when Harris delivers her keynote address on Thursday evening.
