Kamala Harris makes surprise appearance on 1st night of DNC in Chicago
CHICAGO - Vice President Kamala Harris made an unexpected appearance on the first night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, thrilling the packed crowd at the United Center.
"Joe, thank you for your historic leadership and a lifetime of service to your nation," Harris said, paying tribute to President Joe Biden. Her appearance underscored the evening’s focus: honoring Biden for his victory over former President Trump in 2020 and his decision to pass the torch.
"I love Joe Biden," said Illinois delegate and state comptroller Susana Mendoza. "It’s gonna be a special night, given that he made such a sacrifice for our country."
Featured
Chicago DNC 2024: Takeaways from Day One
The Democratic National Convention kicked off Monday in Chicago after months of preparation and a rocky start with security.
Night one also had a strong Chicago flavor. Chicago Archbishop, Cardinal Blase Cupich, delivered the opening benediction, and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson kicked off the evening with a rousing welcome.
"Welcome to the greatest city in the world!" Johnson shouted, receiving an enthusiastic response.
Illinois Senator Dick Durbin and Congresswoman Lauren Underwood followed Johnson on stage. Underwood emphasized Biden’s and Harris’ leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"COVID was the worst public health crisis in a century," Underwood said. "Donald Trump failed us. But Joe Biden and Kamala Harris got it under control."
US Vice President Kamala Harris during the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, US, on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024. The race for the White House will reach a fever pitch this week, with Vice President Kamala Harri
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, a native of Chicago, also took the stage, receiving a lengthy standing ovation. Clinton, who was born in Edgewater and raised in suburban Park Ridge, gave a powerful speech in support of the Harris/Walz ticket.
"Kamala has the character, experience, and vision to lead us forward," Clinton said. "I know her heart and integrity. We both got our start as young lawyers helping children who were abused or neglected. That kind of work changes you. Those kids stay with you. Kamala carries with her the hopes of every child she protected, every family she helped, every community she served."
Featured
Chicago DNC protest: Video shows moment security fence breached outside United Center
Chicago protesters breached a security fence outside the United Center on Monday as thousands inside prepared for the first night of the Democratic National Convention.
Despite some tense moments outside the United Center, where protesters clashed with police after tearing down a fence at the security perimeter, delegates expressed positive early impressions of Chicago as the convention host.
"The first 24 hours have been great so far," said Illinois Congressman Sean Casten. "We have been in constant events all over the city—it’s 75 degrees, low humidity, people saying, ‘Is it always like this?’ Of course it is! You should come here; it’s a lovely place."