Clinton and AOC unite at Democratic National Convention
Clinton and AOC back Harris, highlight unity against Trump
Chicago showcased a significant moment in Democratic Party history. Two prominent figures stood out at the Democratic National Convention on Monday night: Hillary Clinton and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC. Despite their differences, their presence highlighted the unity within the party against Donald Trump.
Clinton, aged 76, embodies the older Democratic establishment. She has been First Lady, Senator, Secretary of State, and the first woman to run for president on a major party ticket. In contrast, AOC, 34, represents the new wave of progressives. She is a two-term Congresswoman and has notably shifted American politics and the Democratic Party further to the left.
Clinton, reflecting on her devastating loss to Trump in 2016, placed Kamala Harris’s candidacy in a historical context. She recalled her mother’s birth in Chicago before women had the right to vote, noting significant milestones like Shirley Chisholm’s presidential run in 1972 and Geraldine Ferraro’s vice-presidential nomination in 1984. Clinton emphasized that nearly 66 million Americans voted for a future without limits in 2016. She stated that the future was now within reach, urging continued effort despite promising polls.
Clinton endorsed Harris, praising her character, experience, and vision. She contrasted Harris’s prosecutorial past with Trump’s failures, mentioning Trump’s 34 felony convictions. Clinton envisioned Harris breaking the glass ceiling, becoming the 47th President, and paving the way for others.
AOC received enthusiastic applause from diverse state delegations like Alabama and California. She began by praising Joe Biden’s presidency, highlighting her journey from taking omelette orders six years ago to representing Queens and the Bronx in Congress. AOC attacked Trump, accusing him of prioritising wealth and big business over the country’s welfare. She asserted that true patriotism involves fighting for working people.
In support of Harris, AOC emphasised her commitment to families, immigrants, the middle class, reproductive freedom, civil rights, and a ceasefire in Gaza. The alignment of Clinton and AOC’s support for Harris indicated a united front within the Democratic Party in 2024.
Other Perspective
- CTV News highlights Joe Biden’s valedictory address at the Democratic National Convention, honoring his decision to step back, while boosting Kamala Harris’s potential future as president.(read more)
- The Guardian reports on the Democratic National Convention, highlighting speeches from Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, emphasizing Kamala Harris’s nomination and pro-Palestinian protests.(read more)
- Independent provides an overview of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) 2024, highlighting the speeches by Hillary Clinton and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who rallied support for Kamala Harris to become the first female president, emphasizing unity and progressive ideals.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who were the two main speakers at the Democratic National Convention?
Hillary Clinton and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
What unites Hillary Clinton and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez despite their differences?
Their passion and determination to see Kamala Harris elected president.
What historical context did Hillary Clinton provide in her speech?
She referenced women’s suffrage, Shirley Chisholm’s presidential run, and her own 2016 nomination.
What did AOC highlight about her own background in her speech?
She spoke about her humble beginnings and the opportunities provided by American democracy.
What was the main message of both Clinton and AOC’s speeches?
Support for Kamala Harris and unity within the Democratic Party against Donald Trump.
