Biden Bids Farewell at DNC, Passes Baton to Kamala Harris

U.S. President Joe Biden delivered an emotional farewell speech to his party at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

Biden, who withdrew his candidacy a month ago under pressure from party members, stood at the podium on the opening night of the convention after being introduced by his daughter Ashley to prolonged applause.

Biden began his speech by saying, “I love you, America.”

Passing the baton to Kamala Harris, Biden highlighted the achievements he has accomplished with his vice president.

He asserted that during their tenure, they made the U.S. the “strongest” economy in the world amid the coronavirus pandemic and ensured the revitalization of the middle class.

Kamala Harris, Biden’s running mate, is set to accept the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination on Thursday during the convention.

Earlier in the evening, Harris energized the crowd with promises of defeating Trump, stating, “Let’s fight for the ideals that are important to us, and let’s not forget that when we fight, we win.”

Biden, who withdrew his candidacy on July 21, made this decision due to pressure from Democrats who expressed concerns about his health and ability to govern the country for another four years.

Hillary Clinton, who lost the 2016 election to Trump, was also met with a standing ovation when she took the stage to speak.

Praising Biden for bringing dignity and expertise to the White House, Clinton said, “We are now opening a new chapter in American history. Kamala has the character, experience, and vision to carry us forward.”

According to Reuters, Harris has had a strong start to the convention with record-breaking fundraising campaigns, packed venues with supporters, and a strong showing in opinion polls.

Meanwhile, a pro-Palestinian group gathered outside the convention, chanting slogans and calling for Democrats to reconsider their support for Israel.

During his speech, Biden acknowledged the protesters’ right to protest and end to the war.

Hillary Clinton also mentioned that they were close to seeing Harris become the first female President of the United States, achieving what she described as breaking through “the other side of the glass ceiling.”