Hillary Clinton, the former Secretary of State, gave an energetic speech at the first night of the Democratic National Convention, expressing confidence in the future and calling on Americans to stand up and break through. She emphasized that the future is within reach and encouraged people to seize the moment. Clinton’s speech came at a time when Democrats were united behind Vice President Kamala Harris, who had replaced President Biden as the top candidate. She highlighted the historic nature of Harris’ nomination as the first woman of color to be a major party’s presidential candidate.
Clinton recalled the progress that women have made in politics, from gaining the right to vote to her own presidential nomination in 2016. She praised the millions of Americans who voted for a future without ceilings on their dreams and urged them to keep their eyes on the future. Clinton portrayed a stark contrast between the future under Harris and a second Trump administration, calling on voters to choose unity over division. She emphasized Harris’ character, experience, and vision as qualities that would lead the nation forward.
Noting her own experience as a target of former President Trump’s attacks, Clinton acknowledged that Trump’s lies and mockery of Harris were not surprising but insisted that it was time to push forward. She stressed the importance of Harris’ victory beyond just the individual, seeing it as a symbol of hope and opportunity for all Americans. Clinton reiterated the symbolism of breaking through the glass ceiling, envisioning Harris taking the oath of office as the 47th president of the United States. She applauded Mr. Biden for his dignity, decency, and leadership in bringing back confidence to the White House.
The Democratic National Convention occurred shortly after President Biden’s withdrawal from the race, with Harris being endorsed as his replacement. Clinton and her husband, former President Bill Clinton, endorsed Harris’ bid for the presidency and showed their support for Mr. Biden’s service and leadership. Clinton praised Biden for embodying the qualities of a true patriot and thanked him for his lifetime of dedication and commitment to the country. The convention served as a platform to showcase the unity and determination of the Democratic Party in supporting Harris and Biden as they aimed for a better future for America.
