The Democratic National Convention is set to kick off in Chicago on Monday night, marking a significant moment for the party as Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to make her first appearance alongside President Joe Biden. This event comes after Biden delivers his highly anticipated speech to the party faithful.
The convention has undergone significant changes in recent weeks, culminating in Harris replacing Biden as the party's nominee. This transition has led to a series of appreciations for Biden, with their joint appearance in Maryland last Thursday serving as a prelude to the upcoming event on Monday.
For Biden, this moment represents the culmination of a long political journey that began when he attended his first Democratic National Convention as a 29-year-old Senate candidate in 1972. Now, he will take the stage as the oldest sitting president in the country.
Those close to Biden have noted his genuine pride as the party rallies around Harris. He has expressed relief that a prolonged battle for the nomination was avoided after he swiftly endorsed her following his decision to withdraw from the race.
On the other hand, Harris has publicly praised Biden, emphasizing his qualities as an extraordinary president. During Thursday's event, she spoke highly of Biden, highlighting their partnership and shared vision for the future.