Following President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the race, convention planners had to quickly adjust their plans to introduce their new nominee to the American public. The task of presenting the nominee fell to former President Barack Obama, known for his powerful speeches and ability to connect with a wide audience.
Obama's role at the convention was carefully crafted to introduce Senator Kamala Harris, advocate for her readiness to serve, and rebuild the coalition that supported his own presidency. His speech was seen as a crucial element in familiarizing Americans with the new nominee.
One of the planners described Obama's role as a delicate balancing act, highlighting his unique ability to address a variety of topics and resonate with diverse audiences. Obama's past convention speeches have been praised for their effectiveness in conveying complex messages and achieving multiple objectives simultaneously.
In 2016, Obama delivered a speech in support of Hillary Clinton while also criticizing Donald Trump. While this speech did not secure Clinton the presidency, it demonstrated Obama's skill in combining advocacy with critique.
At this week's convention, Obama's focus was on affirming Harris as the vice-presidential nominee. President Biden's own remarks about his vice president were brief, leaving the task of providing a more detailed endorsement to Obama.
Many involved in the convention expressed hope that Obama's endorsement of Harris would resonate strongly with the American public. His speech was expected to not only introduce Harris but also emphasize her qualifications and readiness for the role.
