By With just three months remaining before the 2024 election, Chicago is set to host the Democratic National Convention (DNC) this week, drawing thousands of participants. This long-standing tradition, which dates back to the 1830s when Democratic delegates first gathered in Baltimore to nominate President Andrew Jackson for a second term, will see some notable changes this year.
In a historic shift, the Democratic Party has already formally nominated Vice-President Kamala Harris through a virtual roll call after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race. Despite this, many traditional aspects of the DNC—such as appearances by celebrities and impactful speeches from party leaders—will continue as usual.
With the nominations of Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, already secured, the convention will focus on key speeches from prominent Democrats and the adoption of the party’s platform. Delegates will work during the day to finalize the platform, a draft of which has already been released. This platform addresses a wide range of issues, including plans to reduce inflation, combat climate change, and address gun violence. It also contrasts Democratic positions with Project 2025, a conservative vision for a potential second Trump administration, developed by the Heritage Foundation. Although former President Trump has distanced himself from the project, several of his associates were involved in its creation.
The convention will feature speeches from a host of leading Democrats and celebrities. President Biden will headline the event on Monday night, with additional addresses from First Lady Jill Biden, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and other party leaders. On Tuesday, former President Barack Obama is scheduled to speak, alongside Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. Wednesday’s lineup includes former President Bill Clinton and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. That evening, Governor Walz will deliver the prime-time speech following his nomination.
The convention’s most significant moment will occur on Thursday, when Vice-President Harris will formally accept the presidential nomination and deliver her keynote speech, themed “For the Future.” Other notable speakers throughout the week include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former First Lady Michelle Obama, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
In addition to famous politicians, the convention will also feature stories from everyday Americans, including former Trump voters. An estimated 50,000 people are expected to attend the event, including thousands of delegates selected by state Democratic parties and superdelegates—major elected officials, prominent Democratic Party members, and Democratic National Committee representatives. The media presence will also be significant, with thousands of journalists covering the event.
The convention is expected to be star-studded, with several celebrities set to make appearances. While previous conventions have seen participation from actors such as Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Eva Longoria, Elizabeth Banks, and America Ferrera, there is speculation that mega-stars Beyoncé and Taylor Swift may attend this year, though neither has confirmed.
Outside the convention venue, demonstrations are planned, with many focused on opposing U.S. support for Israel’s actions in Gaza. Organizers anticipate up to 10,000 protesters and are currently negotiating with the city of Chicago regarding demonstration locations.
Members of the public can attend the convention in person by volunteering. Major television networks, including C-SPAN, will provide comprehensive coverage of the speeches and events. For the first time, the convention will also offer vertical streaming on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, allowing viewers to watch from their phones.
