The first day of the Democratic National Convention ( DNC) will kick off tomorrow in Chicago under the theme “For the People” as thousands of politicians, delegates, and speakers unite behind the newly formed ticket of Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
Harris joined the presidential race nearly a month ago after President Joe Biden exited the race and endorsed her on July 21.
Earlier this month, she secured enough pledged delegates to become the Democratic Party‘s nominee and is slated to officially accept the nomination at DNC. The main part of the convention will take place at the United Center, home to two professional sports teams in the city—The Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks—and has a capacity of more than 20,000.
The convention will also pay tribute to Biden’s legacy and is expected to feature a lineup of high-profile Democrats, both current and retired.
Newsweek has reached out to the DNC for confirmation of speakers and additional comment via email on Sunday.
While the convention is expected to demonstrate unity among politicians and official party support for the Harris-Walz ticket, pro-Palestinian protests, estimated to draw tens of thousands of people from nearly 200 groups, is scheduled to march outside the convention, urging the administration to end U.S. military aid to Israel during the 10-month war.
Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protests have taken place across the country, calling for ceasefires and for the U.S. to stop supporting Israel. The protests are in response to Israel’s ground and air offensives in Gaza following an October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel that killed around 1,200 people and took about 250 hostage.
Since then, around 40,000 Palestinians have been killed and 2 million displaced, according to the Associated Press. Many protesters have been critical of the Biden-Harris administration’s handling of the war.
Protestors at a Michigan campaign rally earlier this month interrupted Harris’ speech, chanting, “Kamala, Kamala you can’t hide! We won’t vote for genocide.” She called out the protesters, saying, “You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I’m speaking.”
Meanwhile, Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson told National Public Radio (NPR) on Saturday that “protecting the fundamental right to protests in this country is why our democracy is functional, and I will do everything in my power to ensure that the First Amendment of all residents, people of this country, remain intact.”
He added that the city has agreed upon a route for the protestors, “amplifiers and microphones, as well as porta potties and anything else that is needed out there to ensure that these demonstrators are fully protected and respected.”
Monday, August 19: “For the People”
On Monday, Johnson is slated to welcome the crowd while first lady Jill Biden is scheduled to deliver brief remarks.
President Biden is expected to deliver the keynote speech, which Biden aides told the DNC will highlight the Biden-Harris administration’s record, his support for Harris and Walz, the importance of democracy, and the need to defeat former President Donald Trump.
Harris is likely to appear alongside Biden at some point on Monday night.
Former Secretary of State and Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton is also set to speak that evening, according to Axios.
Tuesday, August 20: “A Bold Vision for America’s Future”
Democratic Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is scheduled to briefly speak on Tuesday, per Axios. On CNN‘s State of the Union on Sunday morning, Pritzker said that the DNC will be “like a rock concert” with the celebration of both Biden and Harris-Walz ticket.
Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama are both slated to speak Tuesday, according to Axois. USA Today White House correspondent Joey Garrison reported on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday that Michelle Obama will speak ahead of her husband. Biden served as Obama’s vice-president for two terms.
Second gentleman Doug Emhoff will also provide remarks.
Wednesday, August 21: “A Fight for Our Freedoms”
Former President Bill Clinton, Representative Nancy Pelosi, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg are all potentially speaking Wednesday night, according to Axios and CNN.
The evening will kick off the ticket’s acceptance speeches, with Walz delivering his vice-presidential acceptance speech.
Thursday, August 22: “For Our Future”
On the final night of the convention, Harris is expected to speak and formally accept the party’s presidential nomination.
Former Republican Representative Adam Kinzinger is reported to speak on Thursday night, according to CNN. Kinzinger, who previously represented Illinois and is a vocal critic of Trump, voted for his impeachment over the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot and has endorsed Harris.
Other Speakers
Some reports indicate Democratic House and Senate members, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, are expected to deliver remarks at some point during the DNC.
Former President Jimmy Carter‘s grandson, Jason Carter, is likely to speak on behalf of his grandfather.
Updated 8/18/24 at 5 p.m. ET: This article has been updated to include additional speakers.
