By: Dylan Wadhwa

Opinion Editor

The Democratic National Convention (DNC) kicked off in Chicago on Aug. 19, bringing together party leaders, delegates, and voters to rally in support for their candidate in the highly anticipated 2024 presidential election. With the stakes higher than ever, the event showcased unity and determination as Democrats laid out their vision for the future of the country, focusing on economic recovery, healthcare reform, and climate change.

The DNC took place in Chicago, Illinois, and while Illinois is not a battleground state, it is around an hour’s driving distance from Wisconsin and Michigan, two key battleground states that are pivotal in turning the tides of the election. 

Beginning the conventions was current President Joe Biden, who reiterated the Biden-Harris administration’s accomplishments over the past four years, including their anti-inflation policies as well as their strides to protect women’s reproductive rights. Biden called on voters to reject extremism and continue the work of “building back better” for all Americans. He then proceeded to officially endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the democratic nominee, stating, “She’ll be a president our children can look up to. She’d be a president respected by world leaders, because she already is. She’d be a president we can all be proud of. And she’d be a historic president who puts her stamp on America’s future.”

 A significant topic throughout the convention was the economy, as Democrats sought to contrast their views with the Republican opposition. Different speakers showcased how policies implemented by the Democratic Party have led to job creation, wage growth, and economic stability. They pointed to Biden’s infrastructure bill and efforts to support small businesses as key examples of how the party has focused on rebuilding the middle class.

Another key focus at the convention was healthcare reform, with speakers emphasizing the need for expanded access to affordable healthcare. Harris, in her address, pledged to continue the fight for universal healthcare, noting the Biden administration’s success in lowering prescription drug prices and expanding coverage under the Affordable Care Act, which was first set into motion by former Democratic President Barack Obama. 

Another topic that a multitude of DNC speakers addresse was the issue of how to combat the current climate crisis. Harris emphasized that climate change would be the top priority throughout her presidency, claiming that she would implement policies that would allow America to go completely green by 2050.   

Additionally, vice presidential nominee Tim Walz also spoke, converging his small-town upbringing with his political policies. He specifically touched on his and his wife’s struggle with infertility throughout their lives, speaking personally on his support for women’s reproductive rights and increased fertility care. 

The DNC concluded on Aug. 22, following speeches from a plethora of speakers ranging from Steve Kerr to Michelle Obama. As Democrats head into the final months of the 2024 campaign, the DNC has set the tone for what is to be a close election season. The party hopes to mobilize voters by focusing on key battleground states and emphasizing a forward-looking vision that appeals to a broad coalition of Americans. Whether the momentum from Chicago will carry Harris and Walz to victory remains unknown, but the DNC has made clear that the Democrats are ready to fight for their vision of the nation’s future.

(Sources: NYT, Rutgers, Washington Post, BBC, CNN)