News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/20th August 2024
At the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, President Joe Biden delivered a speech that will likely be remembered as a key moment in his political career. Joined by First Lady Jill Biden and their children, Hunter and Ashley, Biden took the stage to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential candidate for the upcoming November election.
As his four-year term draws to a close, Biden’s speech was not just a reflection on his presidency but also a powerful endorsement of Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz. Biden, who has faced significant criticism over his debate performance against Republican rival Donald Trump, was visibly moved by the support and love he received at the convention. In a particularly touching moment, his daughter Ashley introduced him, and Biden was seen wiping away tears as he took the stage.
Biden opened his speech by addressing the American people, expressing his deep commitment to the country and his hope for its future. He acknowledged that he had made mistakes during his long political career but emphasized that he had always given his best over the past 50 years. “Like many of you, I gave my heart and soul to our nation, and I’ve been blessed a million times in return by the support of the American people,” Biden said. He went on to reflect on his career, noting that he was “too young” when he first entered the Senate at just 29 years old, and now, as an 81-year-old president, he feels it is time to pass the torch to the next generation.
A significant highlight of Biden’s speech was his praise for Kamala Harris, whom he described as the “best decision” he had made in his entire political career. Selecting Harris as his vice-presidential nominee was the first decision Biden made after becoming the Democratic nominee, and he stands by that choice as one of his proudest moments. He assured Democrats that Harris and Walz would continue to pursue key objectives of his administration, including protecting voting rights, ensuring access to abortion, and implementing fair taxation on the super-rich.
In a show of unity, Harris embraced Biden after his speech, during which he promised to be the “best volunteer” for her campaign against Donald Trump. Biden’s speech, which lasted nearly an hour, was a forceful and emotional call to action for the Democratic Party as they prepare for the upcoming election.
Biden also touched on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, expressing empathy for anti-Israel demonstrators and acknowledging their concerns. He reiterated his commitment to bringing peace to the region, mentioning his recent efforts to broker a truce. Biden emphasized that the loss of innocent lives on both sides must be addressed, and he vowed to continue working towards peace and security in the Middle East.
The president didn’t shy away from criticizing Donald Trump, labeling him a “loser” for his portrayal of America as a nation in decline. Biden recalled the challenges his administration faced, including the January 6 insurrection and the COVID-19 pandemic, and contrasted his vision of America with Trump’s bleak outlook. “When he talks about America being a failing nation, he says we’re losing. He’s the loser. He’s dead wrong,” Biden declared. He reaffirmed his belief that democracy has prevailed under his leadership, stating, “With a grateful heart, I stand before you now on this August night to report that democracy has prevailed. Democracy has delivered, and now democracy must be preserved.”
