Emotional President Biden, unexpected VP Harris fuel DNC on first day

CHICAGO (Gray Media) - The Democratic National Convention is officially underway after a night of high-profile speeches and surprises. Nearly six hours of speeches Monday included an unscheduled appearance from Vice President Kamala Harris and an emotional address from President Joe Biden.

Just one month ago delegates filling the United Center belonged to Joe Biden. Now they are dedicated to the new face of the party.

“This is going to be a great week,” said Vice President Kamala Harris to a shocked and raucous crowd.

The vice president gave an ode to the man passing her the torch in her brief remarks.

“Thank you for your historic leadership for your lifetime of your service to our nation,” said Vice President Harris.

And then on a night themed “For the People” Biden went over his legacy in length remarks, marking the beginning of the end for a president moving on for the good of the party.

“It’s been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your president. I love the job but I love my country more,” said President Biden.

President Biden laid out his accomplishments and gave credit to Vice President Harris, while also reiterating his belief Donald Trump is a threat to democracy who must be kept out of the White House.

“We’re facing an inflection point, one of those rare moments in history, when the decisions we make now will determine the fate of our nation and the world,” said President Biden.

The president finished off an energy-packed first night in Chicago with Democrats seemingly in accord across the ideological spectrum. Speeches ranged from labor leaders, to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (D-NY), to Governor Andy Beshear (D-KY), and to the first female to ever top a major party ticket.

“Do we push forward or pull back? Come together as ‘We The People’ or split into us versus them? That’s the choice we face in this election,” said Hillary Clinton.

With President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden off to California for the rest of the week, the spotlight will be fully on Vice President Harris. Tuesday will include more blockbuster speeches, including from Michelle and former President Barack Obama.

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