Highlights from the Democratic National Convention Opening Night

Democrats kicked off their convention in Chicago with a powerful send-off to President Joe Biden, who closed the night with a hand-off to Vice President Kamala Harris. Biden received a four-minute ovation and praised his decision to choose Harris as his running mate, calling it the best decision of his career.

During the convention, Biden sharply criticized Trump and highlighted his administration’s legislative achievements. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also took the stage, emphasizing the potential for Harris to become the first woman president. She invoked trailblazers like Shirley Chisholm and Geraldine Ferraro, urging Harris to keep pushing forward.

Clinton also addressed Trump’s attacks, referring to his felony convictions in New York and the crowd responded with chants of “Lock him up!” The issue of abortion rights was also a key focus, with Democrats criticizing Trump for appointing conservative Supreme Court justices who have rolled back protections for abortion rights.

Despite divisions within the party on issues like Israel’s war in Gaza, Democrats largely downplayed the topic during the convention. Instead, the spotlight was on Project 2025, a Republican blueprint for a potential second Trump term. Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow highlighted the playbook on stage, emphasizing the need to tie Trump to this agenda.

Overall, the convention showcased the unity and determination of the Democratic Party as they look towards the future and the upcoming election.