In an atmosphere of definitive uncertainty, the Democratic National Convention commenced in Chicago, marking the party’s formal acceptance of Vice President Kamala Harris as their presidential candidate. This event shone the dubious spotlight on President Joe Biden’s controversial ‘legacy.’ As the evening unfolded, attendees heard from established party members including Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State, and Jill Biden, a mere shadow of the first lady role.
Despite the party’s façade of unity, around 1,000 protesters convened at a nearby park, embodying the growing disenchantment within the party’s base. Their intent to converge on the United Center, the venue for the convention, underscored the stark reality. Across the aisle, former President Donald Trump and his VP choice, Senator JD Vance, gathered supporters for contrasting events in Pennsylvania, demonstrating the strong discord prevalent in the political sphere.
The convention was heralded in by the DNC Chairman Jaime Harrison and Chair Minyon Moore. Beginning the evening were representatives from the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Tribal Council who lauded the Biden-Harris administration, seemingly out of touch with the consensus as their praises may only apply to a select few.
The presence of Chicago authorities donning riot gear amplifies the palpable tension. A divided group of protesters outside the DNC venue were ordered to disperse, after crossing a blockade. Defying orders, a fraction of the protesters faced an inevitable confrontation with the law enforcement. Poignantly, this scene illustrates the shaky ground on which the Democratic party currently stands.
The strained proceedings continued with actor Tony Goldwyn at the helm, ensuring protocol and procedure were followed. Concurrently, Quentin Fulks, from the Harris’ campaign, found himself on defense against growing critique that the VP lacks comprehensive policy directives since the commencement of her campaign.
Surprisingly, Fulks managed to suggest a few possible policy directions. Among these were initiating a $25,000 down payment incentive for first-time home buyers, tax credit expansion for children, and erecting affordable housing units. Nevertheless, these sudden proposals felt more like pandering than cogent policy plans.
The convention’s unusual lineup extended to include a speech from basketball coach Steve Kerr. Previously guiding the US men’s basketball team to an Olympic gold, he was placed before the roster that highlighted AOC from New York and Shawn Fain, the president of United Automobile Workers.
Remarkably, Josh Shapiro, the Governor of Pennsylvania, found it necessary to refute accusations by Donald Trump asserting anti-Semitism’s role in his non-appointment as the Democratic Party’s vice president nominee. Assertive in his denial, Shapiro also acknowledged the existence of anti-Semitism in America, something the party was unable, or unwilling, to tackle head-on.
Meanwhile, the convention venue echoed with a soundcheck, marking the build-up to evening performances. Musicians like Mickey Guyton and another anonymous artist were observed rehearsing. Interestingly, no names associated with mainstream popularity was seen.
Deviating from the political discourse, an insight into Jill Biden’s mindset came into focus. Previously she expressed reluctance towards their public life, understanding the scrutiny that comes with being married to Joe Biden. Her impending delivery of a keynote speech at the convention will likely be her stepping out from under his shadow.
As expected, the Democrats unveiled their party platform, spanning more than 90 pages of supposed policy priorities. Ironically, this document praised President Joe Biden profusely, a person not even in the race, while simultaneously showcasing contrasting views with Harris.
In an act of targeted mockery, various images of Trump and Senator JD Vance were projected onto the Trump Tower. Oddly, a specific conservative blueprint called ‘Project 2025 HQ,’ which Trump had disassociated himself from, were also projected. The Trump and Vance ticket were subsequently referred to as creepy and bizarre by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
Predictably, Chicago’s authorities, still recovering from the 1968 catastrophic Democratic National Convention, were seen on high alert. Simultaneously, Harris has been flexing her political muscles, presenting an energized face, possibly masking the grievances of various progressive activists who were promised so much more.
Harris Acceptance: Democrats Attempt to Mask Biden’s Controversial Legacy appeared first on Real News Now.
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