Biden Passes the Torch to Harris on DNC’s Opening Night

CHICAGO—In a meaningful and emotional scene at the Democratic National Convention, President Joe Biden formally passed the leadership mantle to Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday night, marking a significant chapter in American politics. As Biden took the stage, a packed convention hall erupted in prolonged applause and chants, expressing gratitude for his decades of public service.

The president, who will leave office in five months, was greeted with a heartfelt admiration. Thousands of delegates and supporters waved “We love Joe” signs and chanted “Thank you, Joe,” creating an atmosphere of emotion. Introduced by his daughter, Ashley, Biden appeared visibly moved, dabbing tears from his eyes as he embraced her on stage. First Lady Jill Biden, who had spoken earlier, was also tearing up during the sustained standing ovation.

“I love you all, folks,” Biden said to the crowd. “And America, I love you.”

Biden’s speech began with a rallying call for Kamala Harris, signaling the unofficial end of his remarkable half-century political career. He emphasized the historic achievements of his presidency, highlighting key legislation passed under his leadership and acknowledging Harris’s critical role in many of those victories as the tiebreaking vote in the Senate.

“Let me ask you: Are you ready to vote for freedom? Are you ready to vote for democracy and America?” Biden asked, setting the tone for the night. “Let me ask you: Are you ready to vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz as president and vice president of the United States?”

Biden’s address culminated in two intense months in American politics, during which his debate performance against Republican nominee Donald Trump led to increased scrutiny from within his party. Ultimately, Biden made the surprising decision to exit the race, paving the way for Harris to become the Democratic nominee. Monday night was a tribute to Biden’s long career and a celebration of Harris’s historic nomination as the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the Democratic presidential nominee in 2016, also took the stage, paying homage to the women who paved the way for Harris. Reflecting on her experience, Clinton spoke about the cracks in the “highest, hardest glass ceiling” and the progress achieved. She also praised Biden for his record and leadership, declaring, “He has been democracy’s champion at home and abroad. He returned dignity, decency, and confidence to the White House.”

As Harris prepares to officially accept the nomination later in the week, Monday night’s proceedings were a poignant reflection on Biden’s legacy and anticipation of a new era under Harris’s leadership. Despite the challenges Biden faced in recent months, he ended his campaign with a commitment to supporting Harris, recognizing that his legacy is intertwined with her success in defeating Trump in the upcoming election.

Since exiting the race, Biden has taken a lower profile but actively supports Harris’s campaign. As the Democratic Party rallies around its new leaders, the convention’s first night set the stage for what promises to be a historic election. Harris is at the forefront of a movement that has energized Democrats nationwide.