What to know about the Democratic National Convention
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Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
Thousands of Democrats will hone in on their party's 2024 election agenda at the Democratic National Convention starting Monday in Chicago.
Why it matters: The Democratic presidential ticket is already locked in. Now, the party will be expected to provide a clearer platform in what's typically a TV-friendly positive display of unity and energy.
- Vice President Kamala Harris and her VP nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, as is tradition, are expected to be the prime time speakers on the final and penultimate nights of the convention, respectively.
- "Democrats will come together to build on our progress, lay out what's at stake in this election, and unite around our shared values of democracy and freedom," the DNC website said.
- The convention came together on an unusually truncated timeline, following President Biden's withdrawal from the race in late July and Harris' quick surge to the nomination.
When and where is it being held?
- The DNC is being held through Thursday in Chicago.
- The event will be live streamed on the convention's website and social media platforms. It's also available via TV device apps and providers.
Inside the room: Primetime programming will be held at the United Center, which also hosted the 1996 DNC.
- Daytime party business will occur at the McCormick Place Convention Center. This will also be the headquarters for Democratic staff and media.
Harris and Walz are already the nominees. What does that mean?
Flashback: Harris became the nominee during a virtual roll call in early August after her party immediately coalesced around her following Biden's withdrawal and the announcement of her candidacy.
- Convention chair Minyon Moore certified Harris and and Walz on the ticket on Aug. 7, after Harris announced Walz as VP pick following a fast vetting process.
Between the lines: While delegates will still host a ceremonial roll call at the convention, the event will largely focus on touting Harris as a candidate.
- Delegates had previously been likely to proceed with a virtual roll call to nominate Biden early, controversial especially after his debate against former President Trump, with the intent to use the actual event to talk him up as the candidate.
Who is attending?
By the numbers: 50,000 total visitors are going to the convention, its website said.
- 5,000 of those are delegates and alternates.
- 15,000 are members of the media.
State of play: Biden is expected to address the convention on its opening night — and largely turn over the rest of it to his successors as the retiring president.
- Less than a month ago, he was still the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee and thus would have given the keynote address.
- Other prominent Democratic speakers slated in prime-time spots include former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
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