Kamala Harris Leads DNC with Biden's Support, Obama's Vision, and Clinton's Fight for Freedom

Kamala Harris officially kicks off the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, expressing immense gratitude toward President Joe Biden. The convention features speeches from notable figures like Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Nancy Pelosi, setting the stage for Harris's acceptance of the presidential nomination.

In her inaugural remarks at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on Monday night in Chicago, Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden for his leadership. Biden will deliver a keynote address focusing on the progress made by the U.S. over the past three and a half years and will lend support to Harris as his successor.

"I want to kick us off by celebrating our incredible President Joe Biden," Harris stated during her brief surprise appearance. "Thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to our nation, and for all you will continue to do. We are forever grateful to you," she added.

The first night of the DNC saw participation from President Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, among other high-profile speakers, according to CNN. A video at the convention highlighted Harris' Californian roots and the influence of her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, on her upbringing.

Harris's family history was prominently featured, including snippets from her childhood in California's East Bay. She is the daughter of Jamaican-born economist Donald Harris and Indian-born breast cancer researcher Shyamala Gopalan, making her the first Asian American and Black woman to lead a major party ticket.

Last month, Harris was officially recognized as the Democratic nominee following President Biden's withdrawal from the race. Biden's exit, primarily due to concerns over his age, paved the way for Harris to secure the party's nomination. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump is eyeing a White House comeback.

Harris named Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, emerging from a list of candidates with strong recognition and states with political advantages. The convention will also feature former President Barack Obama on Tuesday discussing "A Bold Vision for the Future," and former President Bill Clinton along with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi addressing "A Fight for Freedom" on Wednesday.

Additional notable speakers include Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Tim Walz is anticipated to officially accept the vice-presidential nomination on Wednesday.

Harris will formally accept the presidential nomination during her Thursday speech themed "For the Future." Prior to the convention, Harris will undertake a bus tour through Pennsylvania and hold a rally in Milwaukee. The DNC typically includes a roll call vote for nominations, but Harris had already secured her status via a virtual roll call earlier in the month.

(With inputs from agencies.)