Biden passes the torch on day one of the DNC
The first day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago was energetic, emotional and filled with hope
Coming up for air this morning after nonstop interviews for my SiriusXM program throughout the first day at the Democratic National Convention!
The energy is through the roof, and the delegates, Democratic politicians, and other visitors are charged up.
I’ve never seen the DNC so organized, and that’s a testament to how people feel, from the paid staff to the volunteers. Usually, unlike the GOP, it’s hard to book guests through the DNC because, well, they’re just often a mess. But not this year.
Yesterday on my SiriusXM show, we had guests booked throughout the show, some live and some recorded before the show, from Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten to Congressman Gabe Amo of Rhode Island and Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania.
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While everyone had a different experience and story to tell, they were all on the same page about what is occurring: Donald Trump is struggling, and Kamala Harris is surging. No one knows what will happen, but it sure feels good—light years from four weeks ago.
Day one of the DNC was all about gathering the base of the party to come together behind Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. But also, to look back at what led to this moment.
Hillary Clinton electrified the crowd by speaking about the glass ceiling being broken and how, this time, a woman will become president, in her own way passing the torch to Harris. President Biden spoke forcefully about the dangers of Donald Trump but also about the achievements of the Biden-Harris administration in laying the groundwork for what is to come, and passing the torch to his vice president.
There were amazing speeches by Congressmembers Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Robert Garcia, Jasmine Crocket, Jamie Raskin and so many others. The emotion among the delegates throughout was palpable, with people elated at the uplifting speeches and in tears as President Biden gave what was a farewell speech at a convention.
The corporate media complained about the event going on too long, worried about their ratings and programming. Do not let them drive the narrative. Yes, there were a lot of speakers—the bench is deep and wide and should be showcased—and protests blocking the streets did slow down the ability of some to get to the arena. And some speakers went on longer than expected.
But this is for the folks, and they needed to hear it all. We’re in a different time. President Biden’s speech and the clips from it will air in rotation all over social media. And on the West Coast and in the battleground states, from Michigan and Wisconsin to Nevada and Arizona, his speech was in prime time.
So please don’t be sucked in by the corporate media whining. It was a great first night, as Democrats knocked it out of the park. And there was a surprise visit from Kamala Harris on stage!
That was a terrific moment, in which she thanked President Biden. And I thought it spoke so well of her that she attended his speech at the DNC while campaigning in Pennsylvania on the way to Chicago the day before.
While Donald Trump sat through his entire Republican National Convention, sucking in all the adoration he received, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are headed to Milwaukee today to hold a rally. This is unheard of: campaigning during the convention. But again, we’re in a different time. They'll, of course, be back for their big speeches later in the week.
Last night, I walked the floor of the convention during the speeches and interviewed delegates from several states. And I spoke with House members and senators, including Colorado Senator Michael Bennet, who was the first Democratic senator to call on Biden to step aside. We’ll play those interviews on today’s show on SiriusXM.
And tonight, the energy continues, with President Barack Obama set to deliver the keynote address. Former first lady Michelle Obama will also address the convention on today, as will second gentleman Doug Emhoff and Senators Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Tammy Duckworth of Illinois. And those are just a few names.
I’ll be covering it all and writing back here when I get a chance. Tell me all what you think as you watch from home!
I have been completely energized by the convention. Hillary, Warnock and Biden had me in tears. It's been inspirational and I can't wait for tonight! Seeing young Democrats warms my heart. They are our future. GO DEMS!!!!!!! I didn't watch the RNC. Don't have the stomach for compulsive liars.
I loved all the speeches. Hillary rocked! The standing ovation for her was amazing. I agree, she passed the torch to Kamala, but I loved the “ Lock him up!” chants. Really hilarious if ya think about it. President Biden was on fire. What an amazing, genuine, generous, caring man. He truly shows his love of our country and his desire to see what is best for our future. Again, looking forward to your show today. Yesterday’s show was so inspiring. You must be having a blast!!!