In a rapidly evolving political landscape, the Democratic Party is banking on a desire within the American electorate to move past the bitterness and division that marked Trump’s Legacy. At the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, this strategy was fully showcased, with a focus on presenting Vice President Kamala Harris as the candidate who can lead the nation forward with a message of optimism and unity.
A “Joy” Strategy Takes Center Stage Trump’s Legacy
The theme of joy was a defining feature of the DNC’s third night. Former President Bill Clinton highlighted this by praising Harris for bringing “sheer joy” to the 2024 race. Oprah Winfrey echoed this sentiment, encouraging Americans to “choose joy” in the upcoming election. The message was clear: Democrats want to offer a stark contrast to the “darkness” they associate with former President Donald Trump.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg reinforced this contrast, comparing Trump’s divisive politics with the positive vision offered by Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Buttigieg emphasized that their brand of politics “just feels better to be part of.” This marks a shift from the strategy employed by President Joe Biden’s campaign, which focused heavily on the dangers of re-electing Trump’s Legacy. While Harris has not abandoned warnings about the threats to democracy, she has reframed them in a more hopeful narrative, emphasizing themes of freedom and joy.
The convention wasn’t just about speeches; it was a celebration. Musical performances by John Legend, Sheila E., and Stevie Wonder set the tone, with hits like “Let’s Go Crazy” and “Higher Ground” energizing the crowd. Even the Mankato West High School football team, with which Walz had a history as an assistant coach, joined the festivities, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. “Thank you for bringing the joy to this fight,” Walz told the audience, encapsulating the evening’s spirit.
Tim Walz: The Happy Warrior
Governor Tim Walz, Harris’ newly chosen running mate, used the convention to introduce himself to a national audience. Despite his background as a two-term governor and former congressman, Walz leaned into his earlier experiences as a high school teacher, football coach, and neighbor, painting himself as a relatable figure who embodies the values of freedom and community.
Walz’s speech was a heartfelt appeal to the American people, emphasizing the Democratic Party’s commitment to personal freedom. “In Minnesota, we respect our neighbors and the choices that they make. And even if we wouldn’t make the same choices ourselves, we’ve got a golden rule: Mind your own damn business,” he said, drawing applause.
He touched on key policy issues, including health care, abortion rights, and homeownership, delivering his message in a populist tone reminiscent of the late Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone. Walz stressed that when Democrats talk about freedom, they mean the freedom to live a better life, make personal health care decisions, and ensure children can attend school safely. “That’s what this is all about: The responsibility that we have to our kids, to each other, and to the future we’re building together in which everyone is free to build the kind of life that they want,” Walz said.
One of the most touching moments came when Walz spoke about the fertility struggles he and his wife, Gwen, had faced. His son, Gus, was visibly moved, standing up with tears in his eyes as he applauded his father. Walz left the stage to the sound of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” a poignant choice given that Young had previously sued Trump’s campaign for using the same song without permission.
Oprah Winfrey Connects the Dots
While many Democrats focused on the future, Oprah Winfrey took a moment to reflect on the past, drawing a powerful connection between the history of Trump’s Legacy and Harris’s candidacy. Winfrey told the story of Tessie Prevost and three other Black girls who faced intense harassment when they integrated New Orleans elementary schools in 1960. She linked their courage to Harris, who, nine years later, became part of the second class to integrate public schools in Berkeley, California.
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