CHICAGO (AP) — The Democratic National Convention heads into its third day Wednesday.
After receiving the blessing of former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama, the focus on the penultimate day of the Democratic National Convention turns to Kamala Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. The former teacher and football coach is expected to accept the Democratic nomination as the party argues that Americans’ basic freedoms are at risk if Donald Trump returns to the White House.
Former President Bill Clinton, House Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg are also expected to address the conference.
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Here's what to watch on day three.
big moment
After tumultuous weeks in which Harris' running mate moved from a little-known Midwestern governor to the top of the Democratic ticket, Walz is expected to get his own moment in the spotlight on Wednesday when Democrats formally nominate the 60-year-old as their vice presidential candidate.
Walz was little known outside Minnesota before Harris tapped him to join her in the Democratic presidential nomination. But they became close when the vice president interviewed him, impressed by his record as governor and congressman — and the buzz he created on television.
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He will have the opportunity to show that to the American public on prime time on Wednesday.
Attendees react during the second day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois, U.S., August 20, 2024. REUTERS/Alissa Pointer
“Battle for our freedoms”
The theme of Wednesday's events, conference organizers said, is “fighting for our freedoms,” a message that has become a centerpiece of Harris' campaign as the Democrat has sought to portray a second Trump presidency as a threat to Americans' ability to make decisions about their own lives.
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Organizers said the focus would be on showcasing Walz as “a champion for America’s working families and a strong advocate for those same fundamental freedoms.” Democrats, on the other hand, said they would focus on Trump’s efforts to “take away our rights” while he was president and what he could do if he gets another four years.
Reproductive rights, LGBT issues and racial equality are expected to be among the policy areas where Democrats try to differentiate themselves from Republicans.
