Former US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama took to the stage at the Democratic National Convention, urging the nation to come together behind Kamala Harris, the party’s vice-presidential nominee. Mr. Obama praised Harris, saying she is a “good, big-hearted person” who deserves the nation’s support. He also took aim at Republican rival Donald Trump, calling him a “78-year-old billionaire who hasn’t stopped whining about his problems since he rode down his golden escalator nine years ago.” Mr. Obama warned that the nation cannot afford four more years of “bluster and chaos” under a Trump presidency.
Mrs. Obama, in her speech, said something “wonderfully magical is in the air,” adding that it is the “contagious power of hope” that is making a comeback in America. She praised Harris, saying she is a “good, big-hearted person” who embodies the values of hope and change. Mrs. Obama also took aim at Trump, saying his views of the world are “limited and narrow” and that his policies make the country “small and petty.” She warned that Trump’s rhetoric and policies are unhealthy and unpresidential.
Other speakers at the convention, including former Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham, who has become a harsh critic of Trump, and Senators Chuck Schumer and Bernie Sanders, also praised Harris and called for her to be elected. Grisham, in her speech, said Trump has no empathy, no morals, and no fidelity to the truth, and that she would be voting for Harris. Schumer and Sanders both praised Harris, saying she is a strong advocate for progressive values and would be a valuable partner in passing the party’s agenda.
The convention also featured appearances by celebrities, including director Spike Lee and actors Sean Astin, Eva Longoria, and Wendell Pierce. The event was meant to celebrate the Democratic party’s vice-presidential nominee and to urge the nation to come together behind her. As the speeches came to a close, Kamala Harris took to Twitter to express gratitude to her supporters, saying “Love you, Dougie.”