LIVE: 2024 presidential election

Reproductive freedom

Harris was on fire about reproductive rights. She noted that Roe v. Wade was overturned because of Trump-appointed Supreme Court justices and that he bragged about it: "Let's be clear about how we got here." And he's not through. "He and his allies would limit access to birth control, ban medication abortion, and enact a nationwide abortion ban with or without Congress. And get this — get this — he plans to create a national anti-abortion coordinator and force states to report on women’s miscarriages and abortions. Simply put, they are out of their minds.” — Trudy Ring

Harris discusses the war in Gaza

Kamala Harris just got a standing ovation by focusing her remarks on the suffering of the Palestinian people. Before she got to that part of the speech, she vowed to stand by Israel, and there were a few shouts of “free Palestine.” But when she got to the part about the horrible suffering of the people in Gaza, the crowd went wild and those shouts stopped. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

"We're not going back"

The Harris campaign has effectively used “we are not going back” and “when we fight, we win” as campaign slogans. The brilliance in those phrases is their simple but decisive message. The Democrats in the room and around the country understand the assignment — making the chants instantly iconic. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Harris reminds the crowd of January 6

Very very smart to remind people about January 6 — overwhelmingly, by huge margins, moderates and Independents thought he was responsible right after it happened — they need to be reminded about how they felt. — John Casey

An unserious man with serious consequences

"In many ways, Donald Trump is an unserious man, but the consequences of putting Donald Trump back in the White House are extremely serious,” Harris says. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Harris is on the stage!

Kamala Harris took the stage of the United Center shortly before 9:30 p.m. CDT to a delighted crowd with rapturous applause. She began speaking after a 3-minute standing ovation. Harris is all smiles as she delivers her nomination acceptance speech, beginning by thanking President Joe Biden. At 9:44 p.m. she accepted the nomination and the arena thundered. Harris is making a forceful case for her election, promising to be a president for all Americans. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Kamala Harris and Black Girl Magic 

Can we just take it all in for a moment that this woman started her campaign three, four weeks ago, and she’s here on stage? With a campaign fund topping $300 million and polls showing her closer and closer to eating up Trump’s lead.

This is what "Black Girl Magic" looks like.— Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière

Gonna just pop this here again - "How pro-LGBTQ+ is Kamala Harris?"

No confirmation yet, but the internet has thoughts...

The vibe in the room at the DNC tonight

The energy in the United Center is hard to describe -- people are beyond excited. Tim Walz and his family are here and dancing to the music provided by Chicago's DJ Metro. The atmosphere in the arena is one of joy, motivation, and spectacle. For days rumors have swirled that Beyonce or Taylor Swift would be making a surprise performance. It appears that at least one of the music superstars will be singing tonight, according to multiple reports. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

From the old guard to the new guard

Leon Panetta was the first congressman I met - besides my own - when I started working on the Hill in 1987. He was a "classmate" of the member I worked for meaning they both got elected in 1976. After representing California in Congress, Panetta went on to one of the most accomplished careers in political history. When Bill Clinton was elected, Panetta was appointed the director of the all-important Office of Management and Budget (aka OMB), then went on to serve as Clinton's chief of staff. When Barack Obama was elected, he appointed Panetta to CIA director, and then Panetta moved to Secretary of Defense during Obama's second term. Yes, he did all that! I reconnected with Panetta on the 10th anniversary of the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell (DADT). He was with Clinton at the time the silly policy was instituted, and knew then it was an awful idea. He told me the best day of his time as Defense Secretary was the day DADT was repealed. After he was elected, I spoke to Gen Z congressman Maxwell Frost, and came away blown away by him. He campaigned on an Equality Bill and his fervent support for the LGBTQ+ community. We are important to him because the Pulse nightclub is in his district. The Equality Caucus in the House actively supported his candidacy and threw a fundraiser for him. Panetta is 86, still working as the director of the Panetta Public Policy Insitute at Stanford University. Frost is 27 and no doubt on his way to a remarkable career. Bookend speakers at tonight's final night of the convention. - John Casey

Members of the "Central Park Five" take the stage

An amazing moment right now. Several of the exonerated "Central Park Five" have taken the stage alongside Rev. Al Sharpton. Yusuf Salaam, now a New York City council member, said "45 wanted us unalive." Trump took out full-page ads in the New York Times after they were falsely convicted calling for their execution. He continues to deny the DNA evidence that absolutely proved that they were innocent.

"When they see us, America will finally say goodbye to that hateful man."

V Spehar!

Ran into V Spehar at the DNC. Here we are right after they thought Lizzo had just walked by. It wasn't Lizzo, but there are lots of celebrities here. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Harris needs to tie together everything the DNC has been about

Tonight, Kamala Harris has to tie everything that has happened this week together. She needs to show that she understands why people have such high hopes for her. The American people have been told about her life, her worldview, and her ability. Tonight she’ll need to demonstrate all of these elements. She’ll need to be tough and take it to Trump. She’ll need to demonstrate her empathy, and her support for people’s rights and marginalized people. I’m looking for her to acknowledge the lgbtq community and highlight the attacks on them. She needs to bring over independent voters and those who don’t think a woman can hold the office. She’ll need to show that the A-list show that the DNC has put on isn’t just one big entertainment festival but a launching point for a successful election in 75 days. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

A nonbinary drag queen from rural red Pennsylvania takes to the DNC

The Democratic National Convention in Chicago has been many things— a pageant of political theater, a platform for policy proclamations, and, perhaps most importantly, a showcase of the diverse fabric that makes up the modern Democratic Party.

Amid the clamor of speeches and the whirl of television cameras, one voice, in particular, stood out. John Hellman, a nonbinary delegate from the rural corners of Pennsylvania’s Pike County, is here not just as a representative of their community but as a symbol of how far the nation has come—and how much further it still needs to go.

Read Christopher Wiggins's interview here.

What does Harris need to do tonight? 

First, the DNC needs to be on schedule tonight, so that she can attract as many viewers as possible. People need to understand why she is packing stadiums and rallies, and get a sense of her joy, competence, intelligence, and warmth, and why people are so excited about her. I suspect we will hear her standard stump speech, ticking on all the accomplishments of the Biden/Harris administration, along with some of her policy ideas.

I don't think she'll go too heavy railing on Trump — most everyone this week took care of that for her — and she shouldn't do it anyway. She might talk about her career as a prosecutor, and how she jailed sex abusers, and fraudsters, and how she understands the criminal and civil aspects of Trump That's also part of her standard stump speech. This is about her and presenting herself as presidential and as someone who can walk in on day one and get to work. She will be upbeat about the future of this country. Don't look for anything too dramatic or melodramatic (as opposed to the chaos of Trump).

People need to be comfortable with her, and if she can do that tonight, she will have succeeded. - John Casey

Getting the night started

The LED wristbands are back tonight at the DNC. Pink conducted a stunning sound check earlier in advance of her performance tonight. She will sing a special rendition of her hit, "What About Us." There are rumors of other performers as well, but regardless of what happens, tonight will be the most important day of Kamala Harris's professional life and her supporters are ready to put on a show to celebrate her. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

The best quips and tear-jerking moments from DNC Day 3 where Tim Walz and his family stole the show

The Advocate's Christopher Wiggins interviews Sen. Laphonza Butler at the DNC

Christopher Wiggins interviewed Sen. Laphonza Butler over coffee to discuss her friend, Kamala Harris.

One of the star quotes of last night: Republicans 'can pry this wedding band from my cold, dead, gay hand'

🍁 Vermont is being Vermont 🍁

Tim Walz tells America who he is in impassioned DNC speech

The measure of a man

You can take a measure of a man in many ways. It's easy to be a hero when you're an athlete or adored if you are a celebrity. For those of us who have been getting to know him for the last few weeks, we have come to love Tim Walz and are finding out different ways to measure him.-What hasn't he done? He can measured through the teaching and coaching and ordinary jobs he excelled at. You can measure through his ordinary life, with through his ordinary family. And that's where it can end to meaningfully measure Tim Walz. After the moving video played before his convention speech, narrated by his wife, Gwen, Walz came out to thundering applause. Then the camera went to his Gwen, and his two children, Gus and Hope - and they were al crying, with tears running down their eyes. And then when Walz talked about his and Gwen's IVF experience that allowed Hope to be alive, the camera panned down again, and they were all sobbing. And so was I. So was I. I still am. That's how you take a measure of a man like Tim Walz. Gwen, Gus, and Hope wouldn't be sobbing for him if they didn't love him infinitely. — John Casey

Weird!

Tim Walz continues his very effective and humorous strategy of characterizing Republicans as weird. "It's an agenda nobody asked for," he says of Project 2025, than adds, "Is it weird? Absolutely." — Trudy Ring

Tim Walz in his moment

Unsurprisingly, the United Center has become the center of the political universe as Gov. Tim Walz has taken the stage. Delegates are holding up vertical "Coach Walz" signs while hanging on his every word. Walz is sharing some of his life's story. He said that his students "instilled in me, what I hoped to instill in them."

"Never underestimate a public school teacher," he said about his political career. I'm looking at several people who are wiping tears from their eyes. This room is all about coach Walz right now and his story is resonating. The man in front of me is hardly able to contain his emotions; he has tears streaming from his face. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Walz, kindness, and his students

One thing that I've learned from listening to people talk about Tim Walz, particularly his former students, some of whom with which I spoke, is that he is genuine above all else. All of the students who've spoken here at the DNC or who talked to me for interviews have said that he inspired them to think and learn, he instilled in them a joy of learning, and he was, above all else, kind. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Getting ready for Gov. Tim Walz

The United Center is about to erupt when Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz takes the stage. All night, the audience has been listening to anecdotes about Walz and Harris. Because he was relatively unknown until a few weeks ago when Vice President Kamala Harris tapped him to be her running mate, it's been a challenge for Democrats to build his name recognition. It remains to be known how many Americans are aware of who he is, but the people in the arena seem to have a good idea of his character and persona. Walz has done a lot of work during this convention. He has visited many caucus meetings, sharing his joyful message and reminding people to "mind their own damn business. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

What Pete's speech meant

If you are a gay man of a certain age, you would have never dreamed that a gay man would be speaking from the convention podium, in prime time, right before the party's vice presidential nominee. As he speaks, and they pan the crowd, the number of Pride flags, hats, and bracelets seem everywhere. Yes, Pete has a way of taking the most complex thought, and making it simple, He is the definition of eloquent. He can handle anything that's thrown at him. He is a once-in-a-lifetime politician. But, and this is the most important, he makes all of us so damn proud. I have tears in my eyes writing this, because like so many other things that have happened with him, he never ceases to amaze me — and humble me. - John Casey

ICYMI: Pete Buttigieg inducted into LGBTQ+ Political Hall of Fame at DNC

Pete proves why he's a respected speaker

Having Buttigieg come out ahead of the musical performance is a wise decision. His skillful delivery is effective because he is plain-spoken and connects the issues to the lives of the people he's speaking to. He's brought this crowd along -- they are responding with cheers and appropriate boos. Many of the delegates on the floor are on their feet trying to get the best look of the former South Bend mayor. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Pete Buttigieg, the Fox News whisperer

Pete Buttigieg takes the stage after a rousing speech by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore. Pete has the crowd roaring too. Great early line, something he says he never thought he'd say: "I'm Pete Buttigieg and you might recognize me from Fox News." He's noted for going on Fox to speak the truth in rebuttal of the right-wing channel's many lies. — Trudy Ring

Oprah is on and then...

The energy in the room seems to be back. Amanda Gorman's words uplifted the crowd that enjoyed her every word. At the conclusion of her remarks, she received a loud reception. As Tim Walz's moment nears, people who are in the hallways and at the snack shops in the arena appear to be making their way back to their seats. If the speaking schedule, from which the program has strayed somewhat, holds, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and Pete Buttigieg will rev up the crowd ahead of a performance by John Legend and Sheila E, after whose musical performance Minnesota is getting its moment. First, Sen. Amy Klobuchar will speak about her home state governor, followed by one of Tim Walz's former students who will introduce the vice presidential nominee. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

ICYMI: HRC's Kelley Robinson took the stage earlier in the night. Check out her speech ⬇️

Need a refresher on VP Kamala Harris's LGBTQ+ record? We have you covered.

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi takes the stage

Raucous cheers now filling the United Center as Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi takes the stage. People are on their feet and screaming. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Tech issue?

From the vantage point of the press and people sitting in the upper decks of the United Center, it appears that Bill Clinton is not sticking to his prepared remarks on the teleprompter. The words coming out of his mouth, for the most part, are not the words on the prompter screen. It might be a technical issue because Clinton keeps looking down at paper on the lectern. —Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Trump and his lies and his I's

Clinton just made a great point. Instead of counting Trump's lies, "count the I's" he said of the "me, me, me, me" former president. In contrast, every day with Kamala Harris as president will be "you, you, you, you." — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC.

Clinton didn't come here to mince words

Former President Bill Clinton received a very warm welcome here at the DNC. He said that he felt very proud to be a Democrat given all of the excitement recently. He began his remarks by praising President Joe Biden's decision to step away from reelection. "I want to thank him for his compassion, his service, his sacrifice," prompting chants of "Thank you, Joe!"

Then he pivoted, "Let's cut to the chase. I am too old to guild the lily. Two days ago I turned 78...and I'm still younger than Donald Trump!" — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Bill Clinton's DNC speeches

I went to one Democratic convention in my life, and that was 1988 in Atlanta. I don’t remember a lot, but most notably was then-Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton. Soon-to-be Texas Gov. Ann Richards, who was then the state’s treasurer, was a riot. She gave a keynote address on one of the nights, and I think everyone there was wondering why she wasn’t the candidate for president. The candidate was then-Massachusetts Gov. Michael Dukakis, and I remember being utterly unimpressed by him, but he was the nominee, so we had to rally around him. He lost that year, but he seemed like a decent guy.

The Democrats only had one living ex-president, and that was Jimmy Carter. Former President Lyndon Johnson died in 1972, and of course John F. Kennedy was killed in 1963. Carter spoke at the 1988 convention, which was in Atlanta, so he didn’t have far to travel from his home in Plains. Even in 1988, Carter wasn’t wildly popular, but he was our only living president, and I remember his speech as being nondescript.

Carter is still alive, and there are four others — if you count Biden — Presidents Obama, Clinton, and Bush. Before we get to the 1988 Clinton debacle, he spoke in 1984 — this will be Clinton’s 12th convention speech tonight — when New York Rep. Geraldine Ferraro was the vice-presidential nominee. Clinton’s famous line from that speech was "Harry Truman would be so proud tonight that his party and Walter Mondale are leading the way in giving a great woman the opportunity to run for vice president."

As a rising star in the party in 1988, Clinton was selected to introduce Dukakis, and well, it sort of went off the rails. He was supposed to speak for 15 minutes, but he went way over — 30-some minutes, and everyone on the floor of the convention just sort of gave up listening to him and started talking amongst themselves. He was screaming over people! And when he finally finished and introduced Dukakis, the place went crazy. Not for Dukakis, but because Clinton finally shut up.

He became a star because of that speech, even appearing on The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson, who had lots of fun with the glib Clinton. Obviously, Clinton has come a long way since 1988. And his convention speeches have become historic party moments. At 78, Clinton still has it, and I’m sure he’ll give a doozy, not a snoozy tonight. — John Casey

The DNC creatives know what they are doing

As a long-time PR guy who concocted some creative initiatives for major brands along the way, I marvel at genius, That's why I want the name and number of the person who came up with the idea of Kenan Thompson speaking to ordinary people about what Project 2025 would do to them - with humor. The way this convention and the party are mashing up frightening facts and statements with comedy — like what was done to belittle Trump last night — has been brilliant. I think that one of the reasons the ratings have been so phenomenal for the convention so far is because the word is out that the convention is not stodgy, but humorous and fun. And all the while, the key Democratic messages are being delivered. The creatives behind this convention have been masterful and deserve kudos and awards! — John Casey

ICYMI: 'Put on your best shit and get out there' to defeat Trump

The legendary transgender activist spoke with The Advocate after her passionate speech at the Democratic National Convention.

SNL's Kenan Thompson on the dangers of Project 2025

SNL's Kenan Thompson laid out Project 2025's attacks on Americans in a clever setup. Speaking to an LGBTQ+ married woman, a diabetic woman who uses insulin, an obstetrician and gynecologist, and a federal employee at the Department of Education, he pointed out how "unfortunately for you" under the Republican plan, all of these people's lives would drastically change. "Everything that we just talked about is very real," he said, directing people to access the more than 900-page document. "You can stop it by election Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States," he said. The segment was hilarious but effective because it laid out how ridiculous the Heritage Foundation's master plan for institutionalizing Trumpism is.

Tonight

Democrats are prosecuting the case against Donald Trump tonight. Video montages of Trump's greatest hits — from his insults to his lies — keep playing. Just now a video documenting the terrors of January 6 played and retired Capitol Police officer Sergeant Aquilino Gonell got a standing ovation when he approached the podium. Soon, queer activist Olivia Julianna will take the stage, followed by a who's who of entertainment. Stevie Wonder will perform, and Saturday Night Live's Kenan Thompson will outline more about Project 2025. Then, actress Mindy Kaling will host the remainder of the evening, which promises to blow the roof off the United Center. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Speakers remind us of January 6

It's so important to keep the memory alive of what happened on January 6, 2021. I spoke to Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi about it, and January 6 committee members Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin, (who spoke on Monday night), and California Rep.e Zoe Lofgren. All three talked about what a stain that day will be in America's history, and how it was caused by Donald Trump. I also spoke with Pelosi's daughter Alexandra, who did a documentary about some of the insurrectionists charged. She made a haunting point — some of those she spoke with served time and after their release from prison went right back to watching Fox News and following Trump on Truth Social. Despite going to prison for him, they remain faithful. That's the reason we need to keep talking about it — because it could happen again, and we need to be prepared for a next time because Donald Trump, as he showed on January 6, will do anything he can to cling to power.—John Casey

Dana Nessel has a message to SCOTUS

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel just earned a thunderous roar, outlining the dangers that the Supreme Court and Republicans pose for LGBTQ+ people.

"I got a message for the Republicans and the justices of the U.S. Supreme Court: You can pry this wedding band from my cold, dead, gay hand."

Night 3 of the DNC is beginning on a queer note

Night three of the Democratic National Convention is underway and it kicked off Wednesday evening with the theme "Fighting for our freedoms." Tonight, speakers are laying out what's at stake for individual freedoms in America should Donald Trump see another term. Mini Timaraju, president of Reproductive Freedom for All, Planned Parenthood President Alexis McGill Johnson, and Cecile Richards, the former president of Planned Parenthood, started off the night outlining Republican abortion bans in states around the country.

Next, Human Rights Campaign president Kelley Robinson energized the crowd as she told the audience about the dangers of a Trump administration.

"My friends, the 20-plus million LGBTQ+ Americans are living proof of [progress happening]. We are your friends and your neighbors, your classmates and your family," she said, adding, "Donald Trump wants to erase us." Robinson was received with a roar of cheering and chants of "We're not going back." — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

The 14 funniest lines from last night’s roast of Donald Trump at the DNC

What innuendo was President Obama making when he mocked Trump with his obsession with crowd size? writes John Casey.

The Obamas urge action, Doug Emhoff shares love on DNC Night 2

Obama continues the country's push toward hope

Obama never disappoints. He never sounds hollow or disconnected. In fact, he's all about connecting. He's never lost the sense that we can see beyond ourselves. That we can come together, regardless of our differences. He has never lost faith in us. That's why his message has never deviated from hope. He has so much hope in who we are as a people, and who we are as country. He's never lost his bond with us, and we've never lost our bond with him. And he's famously bonded with Harris because they are kindred spirits, and it's that connection that makes Michelle Obama's comment about hoping making a comeback ring true. Harris is the extension of the hope as a message that Obama has been delivering for the past 20 years. Harris ensures that hope continues and remains constant. Trump disrupted that hope. Biden started to revive it, and Harris will move it full steam ahead. Without hope there is no life, and life with hope is returning as an American ideal. - John Casey

Connections and warnings from the Obamas

The Obamas demonstrated once again why they are beloved by Democrats for their ability to connect with people. Michelle Obama started by telling the crowd how she wasn't sure she could speak tonight in Chicago because the last time she was in Chicago was after her mom died. Now, as Barack Obama comes to the conclusion of his speech, he's brought her mom's memory back, saying that he's not sure "if anybody has loved their mother-in-law as much as I did." Obama's speech is emotional. It is inspirational. It is everything that Democrats wanted it to be. But it is also a warning. A warning of a dark future should Trump win, and a warning that complacency will usher in another Trump term. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

USA as a bright light

"When we uphold our values, the world's a little brighter. When we don't, the world's dimmer," Obama said, pointing to a world where dictators are in power. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Obama on family diversity

Obama just acknowledged that freedom means that people should be able to choose what their families look like, whether they have kids, who they love. "We the people includes everyone, because that's the only way this American experiment works." — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Tim Walz and flannel shirts

"I love this guy," Obama said of Tim Walz. "You can tell those flannel shirts he wears [don't come from] political consultants."

Barack Obama has taken the stage

Barack Obama took the stage to chants of "Yes, we can." He said, "I feel fired up...and I feel ready to go. I am feeling hope, because this convention has always been good to kids with funny names who believe in a country where anything is possible." — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

She came to slay

"Cutting our health care, taking away our freedom to control our bodies, the freedom to become a mother through IVF like I did...shutting down the Department of Education. banning our books. none of that will prepare [our children for the future]," Michelle Obama said.

"it only makes us small," she said. "Going small is never the answer. Going small is the opposite of what we teach our kids. Going small is... unhealthy... and frankly, it's unpresidential." "

There's no other choice than Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. No other choice. None."

Michelle Obama came to slay. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Michelle Obama contrasts Democrats and Republicans

"Kamala Harris is more than ready for this moment," said Michelle Obama, who is respected and beloved among Democrats. "She is one of the most qualified people ever to seek [the presidency]."

Michelle Obama has clearly left "when they go low, we go high" behind for the night, as she's drawing sharp contrasts between Democrats and Trump. No "whining" and no "cheating" and not having the privilege "of failing forward," she said.

"We know folks are going to do everything they can to distort her truth. My jhusband and I know [something about that]." She said that Trump's view of the world was threatened by "two successful, highly educated people who happened to be Black."

"Who's going to tell him that the job he is currently seeking might be one of those Black jobs," she said, and the crowd is roaring. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

An ovation for Michelle Obama

Everyone in the arena was on their feet, including the reporters and anchors high above who had their cell phones out to capture the moment. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Michelle Obama is making the case for a Harris presidency

"Kamala Harris is more than ready for this moment," Michelle Obama, who is respected and beloved among Democrats said. "She is one of the most qualified people ever to seek [the presidency.]"

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Michelle Obama takes hopeful approach

Michelle Obama, after receiving more than 90 seconds of a standing ovation and cheers, said that "hope is making a comeback," and she said that something is spreading across the country: "The chance to vanquish the demons of division of hate."

Everyone in the arena was on their feet, including the reporters and anchors high above who had their cell phones out to capture the moment.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Emhoff talks about Vice President Harris and her laugh

He just told the story of when Harris called him back after he left her a voicemail message when they met. He said they laughed for an hour, adding "You know that laugh. I love that laugh!" Republicans have tried to discredit Harris because she has an expressive laugh.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff takes the stage

Doug Emhoff is embracing his sometimes awkwardness as an outsider and the first second gentleman. He opened his remarks having been moved by his son Cole's narration of a tribute video introducing Emhoff. Emhoff is telling his life's story, growing up, biking to Hebrew school, and playing Little League. The principal's spouses get a lot of attention for their good works and Emhoff is no different. He has engaged LGBTQ+ students to understand the attacks they face in education and with book bans, he has been outspoken against anti-Semitism in the U.S. He has also elevated women's rights issues. Emhoff comes across as somebody who's just itching to tell a dad joke.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Democrats continue to troll the GOP at the DNC

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, a billionaire, just called Donald Trump out, saying that he claims to be very rich, "“Take it from an actual billionaire. He’s rich in only one thing. Stupidity!”

Democrats are trolling Trump and the MAGA movement. They keep calling Trump, JD Vance, and Republicans "weird," they're challenging his assertions of wealth, and they cleverly doubled the attendance at the DNC by holding a rally simultaneously at Milwaukee's Fiserv Forum, where Republicans held their convention last month. Harris addressed the Chicago crowd from her rally in Milwaukee. They'll be calling out Project 2025 shortly too.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Sen. Chuck Schumer says Trump "peddles in anti-Semitism" 

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, 73, came onstage dancing after the roll call. He promised that in November, Democrats would hold the U.S. Senate.

"As the highest ranking Jewish elected official in American history, I want my grandkids and all grandkids to never, never face discrimination because of who they are, but Donald Trump is a guy who peddles in anti-Semitism. Our children, our grandchildren, no matter their race, no matter their creed, no matter their gender...they deserve better than Donald Trump."

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

No closet at the DNC

When California's turn to cast votes for president at the Democratic National Convention, Gov. Gavin Newsom celebrated what he called the most diverse state in the most diverse country in the world. In his remarks he bragged that the state supports rights that include LGBTQ+ rights, leading to another round of cheering in the hall. So far, each time the LGBTQ+ community is mentioned (and it's been three times so far this evening) the crowd erupts in cheers, demonstrating support for LGBTQ+ Americans.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

"Fabric of America" takes center stage at DNC 

Democrats are strategically highlighting people who make up the fabric of America. Kate Cox, who was denied an abortion by the Texas Supreme Court, spoke when it was the Lone Star State's turn to cast its votes. Cox announced that because she had access to a necessary abortion, she is now once again pregnant and expecting a baby in January. Democrats have featured family members of victims of gun violence, the LGBTQ+ community, teachers, women who've been denied abortions, and other groups that Republicans target.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

DJ Cassidy is keeping the beat going

DJ Cassidy is keeping the crowd entertained as all U.S. states and territories are called to cast their votes for president. This process usually takes a long time and, while each state is excited to take its turn, can be quite stale. However, with the curated mix of music, the crowd appears to be enjoying itself. The energy in the United Center is, dare I say it again, electric. The building is now packed as attendees await the prime-time speeches. Cassidy is a Grammy-nominated performer and producer.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

LGBTQ+ shine at DNC tonight

A transgender woman just joined in New Jersey's nominating moment. She introduced herself and said "pronouns she/her" and the crowd erupted in cheers. This was the first nod of the night to the LGBTQ+ community, which has been embraced with open arms at this convention. We know that LGBTQ+ people are in every community, which is no different here, where rainbow flags and pins abound.

New York governor Kathy Hochul, in her nominating remarks, highlighted the state as the home of Stonewall and the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Again, cheers and applause thundered through the hall as the LGBTQ+ community received its second nod of the night.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Night 2 of the DNC begins

The second night of the Democratic National Convention's prime time program is underway and right now it's giving everything: multi-colored lights, a DJ, and a lot of excitement. The official roll call is underway, although Harris was formally nominated via a remote vote on August 7. Lil Jon, the singer, surprised a thrilled crowd during Georgia's turn, performing his hit song "Turn Down for What," prompting the audience to jump to their feet with cheers.
The excitement is building as the program makes its way toward tonight's keynote speeches by Michelle Obama and former President Barack Obama. One thing is clear -- Democrats are putting on a much different show than Republicans who featured Kid Rock and Hulk Hogan during their convention in Milwaukee in July.

Tonight's program will also highlight the dangers of Project 2025. Each night of the convention, Democrats will highlight what the Republican plan for institutionalizing Trumpism in America would do to the way of life this country's citizens have come to enjoy. The absolute rejection of everything Donald Trump and the MAGA movement stand for is clear as Democrats celebrate their vision for the future of America.

Related: What is Project 2025 and how will it affect LGBTQ+ Americans?

For those of us who are nostalgic, it was wonderful to see the grandsons of former Presidents Jimmy Carter and John F. Kennedy speak tonight. Jason Carter is the son of Jack Carter, one of Jimmy and Roslyn’s four children. Jack Schlossberg is the son of Caroline Kennedy, who was Jack and Jackie’s only daughter. Her brother John F. Kennedy, Jr. was tragically killed in a plane crash in 1999.

It’s kind of hard to believe, but Carter, who God willing, will turn 100 in October, is only seven years younger than Kennedy who was born in May of 1917. Kennedy was elected 64 years ago, and Carter 44 years ago. Presidents Johnson, Nixon and briefly Ford, separated them. Last winter, when it was announced that Carter was going into hospice, I wrote a tribute in anticipation of his passing. Carter is still with us. He was always a fighter.

I’m a bit of a Kennedy aficionado, which I inherited from my grandfather. I can name all of President Kennedy’s brothers and sisters, and their spouses. Because he was assassinated only a year after I was born, Kennedy’s always been my favorite president. FDR was second, and that’s because my great-grandmother gave me a scrapbook she kept on him. She was a delegate for Roosevelt at the 1936 and 1940 conventions.

In 1976, I remember watching my first party convention. My friends thought I was weird. When Jimmy Carter, the former Georgia governor, and peanut farmer, burst on the scene, I recall his strange accent, his huge smile, and the fact that he carried his luggage and that his wife made bologna sandwiches. He was a breath of fresh air after the Watergate scandal.

His grandson Jason talked about his down-to-earth nature and his decency - and mentioned that smile, and commonalities with the Vice President.JFK’s grandson, Jack, who is named after his grandfather - and who inherited those Kennedy good looks, used two of JFK’s most famous lines, saying what we can do for our country is to work to make sure Harris is elected president, and then talked about her role in passing the torch to a new generation, his generation.

Jason followed his grandfather into politics, serving in the Georgia State Legislature and was the state’s Democratic nominee for governor in 2014. He is chair of the board of the Carter Center, and has hinted he might run for governor again in 2026.

Jack has the potential to have a bright career in politics. He is a New York delegate for Harris at the convention this year, and like his Uncle John, he has a law degree, and he’s a journalist, working for Vogue Magazine.

- John Casey

Walz continues popping up at meetings and surprising delegates

Gov. Tim Walz continues to delight audiences at the Democratic National Convention. After visiting several caucus meeting on Monday, including the LGBTQ+ caucus, Walz surprised attendees at Tuesday morning’s Women’s Caucus.
Regarding Secretary Hillary Clinton’s remarks the previous night, he said, “If you didn't leave there understanding what she did and if you didn't leave there, and I'm guilty of this, imagining how different things could have been in 2016, [had we] got the work done. Well here's the good news. We're not going to make that mistake again. We are going to get the work done and this energy, you're feeling it everywhere!”He was briefly interrupted by pro-Palestine protesters wearing Code Pink shirts. They were escorted out. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Gay Rep. Robert Garcia praises Kamala Harris's kindness in DNC speech

Tim Walz makes an appearance at the Youth Council

Tim Walz just did another one of his drop-ins. This time he regaled the Youth Council, where the former public school teacher and football coach was welcomed with cheers of “coach, coach.” Walz joked that his reception was like “after sixth period” and encouraged the young people in the room to make their voices heard in November. He highlighted that in Minnesota, kids don’t use lunch tickets because all meals are free, and that those who choose to go to college get a free education if their parents make less than $80,000.

He also pointed out that he legalized recreational cannabis in the state. “I don't promote this to my children. But when you're 21, you make your own decisions. If you're going to burn a blunt on the weekend, you do it. Those are the things you do. That is what adults do. That is what a fair society does.” He also used the term he painted Republicans with.“You’ve heard me say the obsession these folks have with being in your exam room and telling women that they know more about their health care than anyone else or telling us about our families, or the idea of being in your bedroom and telling you who you can love, or the idea that they'll tell you what books to read or whatever. None of that is free. None of that is free. And you hear me say this and I'll continue to say it. I pointed it out to them and they're really sad about it. So they're hitting me every day on something. That's just weird behavior to do.”

This introduction of a fairly unknown leader is proving effective as the buzz is about whether Walz will be at other meetings.

-Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

What's going on today at the DNC? 

Today, expect caucus meetings to go into the afternoon ahead of tonight's prime time schedule at the United Center which begins at 5 p.m. CDT. The Youth Council meeting will happen shortly. Later today, Pete Buttigieg will be inducted into the LGBTQ+ Political Hall of Fame at an LGBTQ+ Victory Fund event where he will speak. Then, the action starts at the United Center where former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver the night's keynote speeches. - Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

And we're on to Day 2 of the DNC...

Day Two of the Democratic National Convention is underway and people are streaming into McCormick Place conference center for caucus and council meetings. Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison energized delegates at the Women’s Caucus meeting, emphasizing the importance of hope and joy as guiding principles for the party.

Reflecting on the first night of the convention, which he likened to a greatest hits album, Harrison declared, “When we run on hope and joy, Democrats always win.” He praised Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s MVP and President Joe Biden as their coach, expressing optimism for a victorious 2024 election.“

Last night was like those greatest hits records—you can listen to the whole thing because every single one is hit after hit after hit,” he said

- Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Biden belongs on Mount Rushmore

Joe Biden made history as a U.S. senator. He made history (particularly for our community) as a vice president. He made history as the President of the United States. He made history, again, when he stepped away for the good of the country — no one has ever done that in our nation's history. And tonight he did it again, with a speech that will go down as one of the most meaningful political speeches in history. Nancy Pelosi is right. He deserves to be on Mount Rushmore. — John Casey

Saving democracy

"We saved democracy in 2020, and we must save it again in 2024," Biden says. — Trudy Ring

Biden acknowledges protests, his sacrifice

"Those protesters out in the street have a point,” Biden said, mentioning that too many people have been killed in the Israel-Hamas conflict. That was very well received in the room.

He added, “Folks, I love the job, but I love my country more,” and was promptly interrupted by “We love joe” chants. It’s been a very long day for everybody, but the energy in the hall is still electric. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Biden extends love to Harris

Multiple times now when people chanted “Thank you ,Joe,” Biden said, “And thank you, Kamala.” It’s quite remarkable how much he’s extending the love Democrats have for Biden to Harris.

Biden also railed against Trump for disrespecting the U.S. military by describing some service members as “losers and suckers.” "Who does he think he is?” Biden said. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Biden goes after Project 2025

Biden is using his speech to highlight all of his administration’s achievements. He’s talked about lowering prescription prices, creating jobs, battling the COVID pandemic.

“Look at their Project 2025,” he said pointing to the plan to dismantle the Education Department and otherwise undo the American dream. — Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Related: Project 2025: A blueprint for the oppression of LGBTQ+ Americans

Emotions of gratitude and excitement

The crowd at the United Center erupted in cheers, shouts, and chants of “We love you, Joe” and “Thank you, Joe” as Biden took the stage shortly before 10:30 p.m. For nearly five minutes, people stood and cheered. Within a minute of speaking, he was stopped again as the crowd chanted “We love Joe!” Clearly this moment is one that comes with mixed feelings for Biden. It’s the beginning of the end of his presidency. It’s ushering in a new generation of Democratic leaders with his endorsement of Kamala Harris to be the next president of the United States. People here have been waiting for hours, walking long distances along the perimeter of the United Center and going through long security lines to be in this moment. The emotions of gratitude and excitement are palpable. — Christopher Wiggins

Biden greeted with love, and it's mutual

The president took the stage to chants of "Thank you, Joe," and later the crowd began chanting, "We love Joe." Even though many prominent Democrats urged him to step down, everyone is coming together in gratitude to him and support for Harris.

Biden noted that he took the oath of office just two weeks after the violent insurrection at the Capitol. "You cannot say you love your country only when you win," he said.

He also mentioned the 2017 white supremacist demonstration in Charlottesville, Va., by people "who didn't even bother to wear their hoods," and said it motivated him to seek the presidency.

Biden highlighted his administration's accomplishments, such as building a strong economy, expanding health care, and rebuilding infrastructure. — Trudy Ring

Praise from Biden's wife and daughter

Dr. Jill Biden took the stage at 10:12 p.m. to cheers of “Jill, Jill, Jill.”
She started by saying that for almost 50 years she’s been with Joe Biden, but that she still had moments to fall in love with him again.
She listed a number of times that she’s felt that feeling, including, “Weeks ago when I saw him dig deep into his soul and decided no longer to seek reelection and endorse Kamala Harris.”
“joe and I know Kamala. We have seen her courage, her determination [and] leadership up close.”

Next their daughter, Ashley Biden, introduced her father.
“Dad was always there doing everything he could to be a partner to [Jill].” She added that he respects women and has always been her best friend. They both burnished his image as a family man. — Christopher Wiggins and Trudy Ring

Chris Coons thanks Biden for choosing a great nominee in Harris

And Harris for choosing a great running mate in Tim Walz, says Coons, a U.S. senator from Biden's home state of Delaware. Biden is one of the most compassionate men he's even known, Coons adds. Starts a chant of "We love Joe." — Trudy Ring

Great words from Jasmine Crockett

“She became a career prosecutor, while he became a career criminal,” Rep. Jasmine Crockett said of Trump. She called him a 78-year-old “fraudster and cheat.” She is “comparing their résumés” in her remarks. “She’s lived the American dream, while he’s been America’s nightmare. Kamala Harris has a resume, Donald Trump has a rap sheet.”

“In the real world, this wouldn’t even be close, but this election is.”

"Will a vindictive ,vile villain violate voters’ vision,” she began, pausing for the crowd to cheer (it was a reference to her alliteration skills from when she asked about MTG’s “bleach-blond, butch body” during a House hearing recently. She continued, “For a better America or not?” — Christopher Wiggins

Reproductive rights stories were tearjerking

Wow, the reproductive rights stories were tearjerking. It is a male issue too, and that last story about the all-American girl raped by her stepfather — there are no words. These stories and others will reverberate for the next few months. — John Casey

Hillary Clinton shines

Hillary Clinton took the stage and received more than a minute of cheers and a standing ovation. The crowd was so fired up that they won’t let her start her speech. “Thank you, thank you. Thank you all so much,” she said, adding “There’s a lot of energy in this room. Something is happening in America. You can feel it. Something we’ve worked for and dreamed of for a long time. First, though, let’s salute President Biden. He had been democracy’s champion at home and abroad.”

“Donald Trump fell asleep at his own trial,” she said, and the crowd started chanting “lock him up” and Clinton, who was the target of “lock her up” chants by Trump supporters in 2016 clearly reveled in the deafening roar of the crowd’s chant.

- Christopher Wiggins, from the DNC

Clinton's speech was tremendous!

Clinton’s speech was tremendous! She weaved in women’s rights, fighting for families, and not becoming complacent because the polls can’t be relied on. She knows that firsthand 66 million people voted for her and she won the election but lost the presidency. She is going to be a major asset for Harris on the campaign trail! Watch out for Hillary! And she nailed Trump perfectly. Struck exactly the right tone! —John Casey

We didn't give up, and the future is here — Hillary Clinton

She notes that women marched for rights and ran for office after her 2016 defeat (she did win the popular vote), and now "the future is here" in the form of Kamala Harris. — Trudy Ring

Clinton mentions Shirley Chisholm

A congresswoman from New York, Chisholm sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 1972. She was the first woman to seek the Democratic nomination (Margaret Chase Smith sought the Republican nomination in 1964) and the first Black woman to seek a major party's presidential nom. — Trudy Ring

Huge ovation for Hillary Clinton!

The woman who should have been the first woman president. She gives a shout-out to Joe Biden. Crowd chants, "Thank you, Joe." — Trudy Ring

The crowd goes wild for Harris

Harris’s surprise appearance is part of the night’s theme of celebrating Biden for his decades of service to the country, and he is expected to pass the torch to her in his speech later tonight. The night is bittersweet for many, who on the one hand are sad for Biden to step away, but also grateful to him for putting the country first, in their eyes. On the other hand, they will no doubt be thrilled to see Harris accept the nomination for president on Thursday.

- Christopher Wiggins, reporting from the DNC

Harris thanks Biden 

"This is going to be a great week and I want to kick us off by celebrating our incredible president, Joe Biden," Harris told the crowd. "Joe, thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to this nation."

"We are forever grateful to you," she added.

Kamala Harris makes an appearance on the first night

Vice President Kamala Harris made an unannounced appearance on the DNC stage on Monday. When she took the stage, an audible gasp fell over the crowd and cheering was deafening.

What tonight will bring...

Tonight will be historic as far as Democratic conventions go, with the sitting president kicking things off with the Monday night keynote address. President Biden will get a long, sustained standing ovation, and that's one thing we can count on. As history recalls, when then-Attorney General Robert Kennedy spoke at the 1964 convention soon after his brother President Kennedy was killed, he received a 16-minute standing ovation.

The thunderous applause for Biden won’t be 16 minutes, but like the anticipation for Kennedy’s speech, there will be a lot of love and tears in the room. It's important to remember that there is a faction within the party that is not happy with how Biden was pushed out; however, President Biden won't be bitter or melancholy, but rather upbeat. The fact that his daughter Ashley will introduce him hints to the fact that he will most likely spend his time talking about his hopes for the future.

That’s going to be the theme of the convention this year - hope and happiness, and my sense is that the speaker roster has been given directives from the higher-ups that there is to be no negativity spoken from the rostrum. If Biden would have remained at the top of the ticket, I suspect that there would have been a lot of Trump - and JD Vance - bashing. But now, there’s really no need for that. The campaign is now more about hope and happiness and less about impending doom and gloom. The party is revved up to go! Trump is no longer the elephant in the room - pardon the pun. In fact, speakers would be advised not to give any acknowledgment of the opposition.

I will be all rah-rah Harris and Walz all the time!

If you are an obsessive political wonk and like to play political drinking games, you might want to take a sip every time the word “weird” is mentioned. Many speakers, while not dwelling on Trump and Vance, might take their cues from the top, and refer to them, their policies and things they have said as “weird.”

But tonight will be one for the history books, and it will be bittersweet.

- John Casey

Actor and activist Wilson Cruz speaks to The Advocate on the strength of the LGBTQ+ community

Wilson Cruz, who famously was one of the first out gay men on TV in the 90s when Gov. Tim Walz was a GSA advisor, spoke to The Advocate before a speech at the DNC's LGBTQ+ Caucus meeting.

“Our community is incredibly resilient and strong. What makes us even more resilient and even stronger are our allies who stand with us in this fight,” he told The Advocate. “We need that, especially in high school and to have a member of the faculty, your teacher, the high school football coach, be the GSA faculty advisor at his school, sends a huge message that of love and acceptance of allyship. It sends a message to the young people at that school and in the community that they belong, that they are being looked after, that someone is there who's going to stand with them. And it makes all the difference in the world.”

Cruz, who is chair of the board of the LGBTQ+ education nonprofit GLSEN added, “It's literally one of the four pillars of the work that GLSEN does is to make sure that there's at least one faculty member who's going to be supportive of our students. And so for him to have done that, not even just today, but to have done it in the late nineties, which I was doing this work at the time, so I remember how difficult it was, it means a lot to us. We know that we have an ally who's going to do this work with us.“

Learn more about GLSEN here.

Tim Walz has choice words for Republicans going after LGBTQ+ rights

“These guys [Trump and Republicans] seem to think [rights are] like pie, like, oh, we cut the pie. A smaller piece. Rights don't work like pie. There's enough for everybody. These are ideas that overwhelmingly are supported by the American people,” Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota said to the LGBTQ+ Caucus today at the DNC.

He said that the country is “a decent society where everyone has a say. We respect people's rights. We talk about freedom in this party. The Vice President talks about freedom. Freedom to make your own health care decisions. Freedom to live who you want to love. Freedom to read the books you want to read.”

Related: How pro-LGBTQ+ is Tim Walz, Kamala Harris' vice president pick?

Tim Walz surprises the DNC's LGBTQ Caucus

Gov. Tim Walz, Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate, made a surprise appearance during the LGBTQ Caucus as the DNC.

What are these caucuses?

The meeting schedule for the Democratic National Convention’s caucuses and councils in Chicago is structured across four days, with different groups meeting from Monday to Thursday. Each day features a series of caucus and council meetings ahead of the prime time speeches, allowing members of various constituencies within the Democratic Party to gather, discuss key issues, and hear from special guests. These sessions are designed to ensure that the diverse voices within the party are represented and that their concerns are addressed as the party shapes its platform and strategies.

Today, for example, meetings will be held for the Black Caucus, Hispanic Caucus, AAPI Caucus, Native American Caucus, Ethnic Council, LGBTQ+ Caucus, Labor Council, Small Business Council, and the Environmental and Climate Crisis Council. Each of these groups will focus on topics relevant to their constituencies, discussing current challenges and opportunities while hearing from notable figures who can provide guidance and support. Throughout the week, other caucuses and councils will also convene, such as the Women’s Caucus, Disability Caucus, Youth Council, and Veterans and Military Families Council, among others.

These meetings are an integral part of the convention, offering a platform for grassroots engagement and allowing members to contribute to the party’s direction. The discussions held during these sessions help to inform the Democratic Party’s approach to critical issues, ensuring that the party’s platform reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of its supporters. The meetings are accessible to the public through livestreams on the DNC’s YouTube page.

- Christopher Wiggins

And we are on the ground at the DNC...

The Advocate's senior national reporter, Christopher Wiggins, is there to cover it all: the caucus meetings, interviews with lawmakers and surrogates, the speeches, and parties. Security is high as some protests have already started around town, while Democrats will begin to trickle into two convention spaces each day. McCormick Place is the venue for daytime activities, while the United Center will be the stage for the week's top-billed events.

Do you have a question for Christopher while he's at the DNC? Send us your DNC queries at news@equalpride.com.

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