CHICAGO (AP) — Thousands of Democratic delegates officially named vice president Kamala Harris nominated its candidate earlier this month and has now confirmed its choice in a ceremonial vote by the states. This is one of many unprecedented moments that have taken place during the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicagowhere the Democrats confirmed their nomination of the party’s first black woman to head their ticket and the first candidate of South Asian descent.
The delegates arrived in Chicago after their party had endured a turbulent few weeks. President Joe Biden – as voices within his own party grow louder – he ended his campaign and threw his support behind Harris. During a whirlwind tour of swing states with her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Harris appeared in the arena on the opening night of the convention, delivering brief remarks before watching the speeches from box seats, then returning to the stage to hug Biden after his speech – a political farewell of sorts.
A convention originally planned with Biden as the top honoree instead became, at least on the first night, a way to honor the longtime Democratic politician as he passed the torch to Harris. Some delegates in the arena – many in state-specific regalia or matching clothing – dabbed their eyes as they held up “We love Joe” signs. Biden, who was introduced by his daughter Ashley, also wiped his eyes as he hugged her and took the stage.
