Democratic National Convention Set for Chicago as Biden Endorses Harris

With the upcoming Democratic National Convention (DNC) just under a month away, all eyes are on Chicago as President Joe Biden‘s endorsement reshapes the political landscape leading up to the event.

Chair of the 2024 DNC, Minyon Moore, lauded Biden as a steadfast leader who has committed his life to serving the American people. Moore stated that Biden has successfully guided the country «back from the brink» during his first term, showcasing his moral clarity and unwavering dedication to bipartisanship.

In an environment where Biden is stepping aside, the Democratic Party finds itself in a unique position as it technically begins with an open convention. However, the reality of Biden’s endorsement quickly complicates the dynamics for current Vice President Kamala Harris, who must now rally nearly 4,000 delegates from various states, territories, and DC, in addition to over 700 superdelegates.

The DNC is scheduled to take place from August 19 to 22, with the primary proceedings occurring at the United Center, while McCormick Place will facilitate official daytime business, meetings, and briefings. Given the historical context of the convention and the pressures surrounding it, delegates will converge from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and American territories to make their voices heard.

Participation in the convention is not limited to delegates; there exists a plethora of volunteer opportunities for residents. Many of these roles will also grant entry into various sections of the convention hall itself. For those unfamiliar, delegates act as representatives for voters within the Democratic Party, casting votes to select the nominee and aid in establishing the party’s governing rules.

In Illinois, the process of becoming a delegate comprises various requirements based on the category of delegate one wishes to represent. Illinois encompasses three types of delegates: district-level, pledged Party Leaders and Elected Officials (PLEO), and at-large delegates. The first wave of delegates, district-level ones, was selected on March 19, setting a precedent for the following selections.

PLED delegates, or Party Leaders and Elected Officials, also underwent their selection phase, which was completed by April 29, when a quorum of district-level delegates convened for voting. Following these, the at-large delegates were finalized with stringent requirements that included a completed statement of candidacy and a pledge by April 12.

Importantly, Biden’s endorsement of Harris is non-binding, thus reflecting the Democratic Party’s guidelines which stave off any singular appointing authority for a presidential nominee. Biden’s delegates, nearly all pledged to him on the first ballot, serve as a notable factor in the upcoming election.

As Democratic strategist Pete Giangreco pointed out, should Biden opt to release his delegates, a significant shift in the dynamic could ensue. With over 4,000 delegates tied to Biden’s initial commitment, releasing them would permit greater flexibility and voter choice among potential candidates.

The delegate voting process promises to be both intriguing and potentially contentious. If no candidate garners a majority of delegates on the first ballot, a second round of voting will ensue, at which time the superdelegates—who aren’t pledged to any particular candidate—will also have a say.

A candidate must secure a majority of the delegate votes to clinch the nomination, a task that will unfold under the heightened scrutiny of the convention.

Several individuals are already speculated to be potential candidates should Harris gain the nomination. With names like Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg surfacing as contenders, the political landscape remains fluid leading up to the convention.

As the DNC approaches, the undercurrents of party loyalty, individual ambitions, and strategic maneuvering will define the race to the nomination, as delegates engage in elements of both competition and collaboration.

In the run-up to the DNC, preparations are being made to ensure smooth operations, with expected road closures and extensive security measures. Local businesses are also gearing up to host DNC-affiliated events, creating a buzz within the city of Chicago.

This year’s convention promises to encapsulate both the challenges and triumphs of the current Democratic landscape, setting the stage for the forthcoming presidential election. With the eyes of the nation upon them, the party must navigate through a complex terrain of influence, representation, and the quest for unity as they head towards one of the most pivotal moments in the electoral calendar.