Biden Steps Aside: Democratic Convention Highlights Harris' Historic Candidacy

President Joe Biden, after stepping down from his reelection bid, took the spotlight on the first night of the Democratic National Convention. With Kamala Harris set to take center stage, the event is marked by notable speeches, including Hillary Clinton's. Protests outside the venue added to the eventful night.

President Joe Biden, after bowing out of his reelection campaign a month ago, took center stage on the opening night of the Democratic National Convention. His presence was notable as he navigated the event knowing his party has moved forward without him.

Introduced by his daughter Ashley, Biden, visibly emotional, thanked the crowd before heading to California for a vacation. Originally slated for a high-profile speech on Thursday, Biden's primary role at the convention was Monday's main event. He highlighted his administration's accomplishments and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor.

Harris, who unexpectedly appeared earlier in the evening, rallied the crowd with promises to defeat Republican Donald Trump. Scheduled to accept the Democratic nomination on Thursday, her campaign has witnessed significant support, bolstering the party's prospects according to recent polls and fundraising metrics.

Hillary Clinton, the Democratic candidate who lost to Trump in 2016, also received a standing ovation. Reflecting on progress and setbacks, Clinton praised Biden and endorsed Harris, while criticizing Trump's leadership.

Amid the convention, protests erupted nearby with demonstrators calling for the end of the party's military support for Israel's Gaza actions. While fewer than expected, the protests did result in a breach of the security perimeter and the detention of four individuals by riot police.

Harris' campaign has set records and drawn large crowds, while her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, has garnered significant grassroots support. Despite this, some caution remains about the optimism surrounding Harris' campaign.

Biden's decision to step down followed a poor debate performance and subsequent pressure from party leaders, paving the way for Harris who has significantly closed the polling gap against Trump.

(With inputs from agencies.)