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Democrats are counting on a strong desire among American voters to move past the bitterness of the Trump era. At the party’s convention in Chicago on Wednesday night, they showcased a “joy” strategy, highlighting Vice President Kamala Harris as the candidate to lead the nation forward.
Former President Bill Clinton praised Harris for bringing “sheer joy” to the 2024 race, while Oprah Winfrey encouraged Americans to “choose joy.” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg contrasted the “darkness” of Trump’s politics with the more uplifting approach of Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, suggesting that their vision offers a more positive and inclusive experience.
The 2024 presidential race has shifted significantly since President Joe Biden’s departure last month, moving from warnings about Trump threatening democracy to a more optimistic focus. Vice President Kamala Harris has maintained the critical warnings but framed them in a message of freedom and joy, blending these themes with a celebratory party atmosphere.
The night featured performances by John Legend and Sheila E. with Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy,” and Stevie Wonder’s rendition of “Higher Ground.” Alumni from Mankato West High School, where Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was an assistant coach, joined the event in their old jerseys as a pep band played the school’s fight song.
“Thank you for bringing the joy to this fight,” Walz told the crowd.
Here are six key takeaways from the third night of the DNC:
Tim Walz, the upbeat advocate, makes his introduction
This was a new experience for Tim Walz. Before being chosen as Harris’ running mate, he had never given a high-stakes speech to a national audience, nor had he used a teleprompter.
Amidst a convention full of former presidents, congressional leaders, and celebrities, Walz chose a different approach. Though he is a two-term governor and former congressman, he drew on earlier roles: high school teacher, football coach, hunter, and neighbor.
In his speech, Walz argued that Democrats represent freedom.
“In Minnesota, we respect our neighbors and their choices. Even if we don’t agree, our rule is: Mind your own damn business,” Walz stated.
He addressed Harris’ positions on health care, abortion rights, and homeownership with a populist tone, echoing the style of late Minnesota Sen. Paul Wellstone.
“When we Democrats talk about freedom, we mean the freedom to improve your life and protect your loved ones. Freedom to make your own health care decisions, and the freedom for your kids to go to school without fearing for their lives,” Walz said.
“That’s what this is all about: our responsibility to our children, to one another, and to the future we’re creating together—where everyone has the freedom to shape their own life,” Walz said.
Drawing from his football background, Walz urged Democrats to give their all in the remaining 76 days of the campaign, saying, “We’re gonna leave it on the field.”
A particularly poignant moment came when Walz spoke about the fertility struggles he and his wife, Gwen Walz, endured.
“Hope, Gus, and Gwen, you are my entire world, and I love you,” he said, naming his daughter, son, and wife. Gus Walz rose, tears streaming down his face, and applauded his father.
Walz exited the stage to Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” which Young had personally permitted for the Harris campaign—an interesting twist given that Young had previously sued Trump’s campaign for using the song.
