What does Biden’s exit from race mean for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago?
by: BJ Lutz, Brónagh Tumulty
Posted: Jul 22, 2024 / 02:32 PM CDT
Updated: Jul 22, 2024 / 10:11 PM CDT
CHICAGO — The chair of next month’s Democratic National Convention said the “mission remains the same” following the president’s departure from the campaign: share the Democrats’ message and “defeat Donald Trump once again.”
Calling Joe Biden “a public servant” and praising his “steady leadership,” Chair Minyon Moore commended the president for bringing “our country back from the brink” during his term.
“He has led with moral clarity and a steadfast commitment to bipartisanship, and his goodness transcends politics,” Moore said in a statement.
Since Biden withdrew ahead of the formal nomination, which had been planned to take place with a virtual roll call ahead of the convention in Chicago, the 3,900 or so pledged delegates are free to vote for whomever they choose. The Democratic National Committee announced on Monday that it will move forward with a virtual roll call and that it plans to have a presidential nominee by Aug. 7.
Biden has formally endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, to become the Democratic Party’s nominee as he announced he would not seek reelection. Harris is thus far the only declared candidate and was working to quickly secure endorsements from a majority of delegates. Endorsements continued to roll in Monday from Illinois and national figures, including Nancy Pelosi.
“Democrats are prepared and united in our resolve to win in November,” said Democratic National Committee chairman Jamie Harrison. “As we move forward to formally select our Party’s nominee, our values as Democrats remain the same – lowering costs, restoring freedom, protecting the rights of all people, and saving our democracy from the threat of dictatorship.”
The Democratic Party website has details on the delegation selection process.
As security measures continue to get ironed out, Palestinian supporters said they still plan to demonstrate on the convention on August 19, saying tens of thousands will take to the streets of Chicago, regardless of who earns the nomination.
Chicago police say they’ve been planning their security measures since the city was announced as host. Dozens of Chicago officers assisted with the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
Reached Monday, the Secret Service said plans are being finalized for a Thursday press conference that is scheduled to include Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. JB Pritzker.
Host committee confident convention will be successful
Chicago’s host committee released the following statement following Biden’s departure from the race, saying its focus remains unchanged:
“The Host Committee is profoundly grateful President Biden selected Chicago to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Our city has a proven track record of success when it comes to hosting large-scale, complex events. Chicago has hosted 25 nominating conventions since 1860––more than any other city in America––and we look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to our 26th convention next month. The Host Committee’s commitment to creating a world-class experience for all attendees and residents remains unchanged, and we are laser-focused on our goal of driving lasting social and economic impact across the Chicagoland area.”
After Republicans hold their convention in Milwaukee in July, Democrats will host their nominating convention in Chicago August 19-22. Chicago has hosted Democrats 12 times, the last being nearly 30 years ago when President Bill Clinton was nominated for a second term.