DNC Night 2 Live: Roll call vote and Obama speech
Welcome to the second night of the Democratic National Convention! Tonight, we have the esteemed former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama prepared to deliver powerful speeches to delegates in their hometown of Chicago. Additionally, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz, will be hosting a rally in Milwaukee as the convention continues.
It’s remarkable to reflect on the impact of Barack Obama’s historic keynote address at the 2004 DNC in Boston, an electrifying speech that catapulted him to national fame and, ultimately, the Democratic presidential nomination. Tonight, Obama will advocate for Harris, who was an early supporter of his 2008 presidential campaign.
The lineup for tonight includes speeches from Sen. Bernie Sanders, the independent from Vermont who ran for president in both 2016 and 2020, as well as second gentleman Doug Emhoff. Earlier in the evening, we witnessed prominent Republican critics of former President Donald Trump take the stage, including Stephanie Grisham, Trump’s former White House press secretary, who announced her support for Harris.
The convention opened on Monday with a stirring address from President Biden, who graciously made space for Harris last month. Biden’s impassioned endorsement of Harris as his successor highlighted his unwavering support for her campaign.
Now, let’s dive into the latest from the DNC:
The ceremonial roll call is currently underway to reaffirm Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee. Even though Harris secured her nomination on August 6th, this celebratory roll call allows each state delegation to announce their votes for Harris, creating an energetic atmosphere among attendees.
With each state delegation being introduced with a corresponding song, including hits like Jay Z’s “Empire State of Mind” and an Eminem track, the crowd is electrified. Surprise guest appearances from celebrities like rapper Lil Jon and actors like Spike Lee and Wendell Pierce only add to the excitement.
The powerful testimony of Stephanie Grisham, former Trump White House press secretary, endorsing Harris over Trump due to her love for the country, not just party affiliation, showcased the gravity of this momentous event. Grisham’s condemnation of Trump’s character and morals resonated with the audience, further underlining the importance of this election.
Additionally, Democrats have been highlighting their opposition to Project 2025, a policy guide for the next Republican presidential administration, emphasizing the detrimental impact it could have on the economy and working-class families. This demonstration of the potential consequences of a Trump re-election underscores the urgency of the current political landscape.
Notable speakers such as the grandsons of former Presidents Jimmy Carter and John F. Kennedy added a touch of historical reflection to the evening. Their moving testimonials about the legacies of their grandfathers and their belief in Harris as a leader evoked a sense of continuity and hope for the future.
As we eagerly await Doug Emhoff’s address, praising Harris as a “happy warrior” ready to lead the nation with joy and toughness, it’s evident that the momentum of the convention is building towards a climactic finale. His words of trust and confidence in Harris suggest a bright and promising future under her leadership.
If you’re wondering how to follow tonight’s proceedings, CBS News 24/7 is providing comprehensive coverage of the convention with live streams of major keynote speeches. Tune in on your mobile device or streaming platform for real-time updates and analysis.
CBS television stations will also be broadcasting the convention starting at 10 p.m. ET, ensuring that you don’t miss a moment of this pivotal event. Check your local CBS station for viewing details.
For those curious about the lineup of speakers for tonight, a diverse array of voices, including Sen. Chuck Schumer, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, and former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, will be taking the stage to share their insights and visions for the future of our country.
Join us as we witness history in the making at the Democratic National Convention, where voices of change and progress unite to shape a better tomorrow for all Americans.
