Barack and Michelle Obama Electrify the Democratic National Convention
Barack and Michelle Obama electrified the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday, delivering back-to-back speeches that eviscerated Donald Trump and urged Americans to reject the Republican nominee once and for all.
Here are some takeaways from the DNC’s second night:
“Kids with funny names”
Twenty years after Barack Obama burst onto the political scene with his 2004 DNC speech, he delivered its bookend. “This convention has always been pretty good to kids with funny names who believe in a country where anything is possible,” Obama said. The 44th president made many references to his own campaigns — including the “Yes we can” chants once so omnipresent at Obama rallies, now returning as “Yes she can.”
“Hope makes a comeback”
Few people have as much of a hold on the hearts and minds of the Democratic base as Michelle Obama, who was greeted with one of the loudest, longest rounds of applause as she took the stage in her hometown. “Hope is making a comeback,” she said of Kamala Harris’ candidacy, echoing the theme of her husband’s 2008 presidential run. “My girl Kamala Harris is more than ready for this moment,” she said. “She is one of the most qualified people ever to seek the office of the presidency, and she is one of the most dignified.”
Warnings of “foolishness”
Michelle Obama urged the audience to keep their eyes on the prize. She told Democrats to avoid the “foolishness” of waiting to be asked to act and made a personal appeal for everyone to “do something” between now and Election Day. “Yes, Kamala and Tim are doing great now. We’re loving it. They pack arenas across the country. Folks are energized. We are feeling good,” she said. “But remember, there are still so many people who are desperate for a different outcome.”
Emhoff introduces “Momala”
The second gentleman sought to show America a personal side of his wife — telling stories about how they met and how she became “Momala” to his two children. But Emhoff’s speech wasn’t purely anecdotes. He also described Harris as tough. “Here’s the thing about joyful warriors: They’re still warriors. And Kamala is as tough as it comes,” he said.
GOP speakers show up for Harris
Democrats weren’t just working to appeal to their own party. Throughout the night, the DNC featured former Republicans making the case for independents and Trump critics to vote for Harris, including Mayor John Giles of Mesa, Arizona, former Trump aide Stephanie Grisham, and Kyle Sweetser, a Nikki Haley supporter who plans to vote for Harris.
“VP Harris, Governor Walz”
The roll call, a tradition of political conventions, was turned into an hourlong, prime-time mash-up led by DJ Cassidy of songs associated with each state, while representatives from the states delivered speeches as they cast their delegates’ votes. Some song picks were by musicians who are synonymous with their home states, including Eminem (Michigan), Prince (Minnesota), Bruce Springsteen (New Jersey), Jay-Z and Alicia Keys (New York), and Petey Pablo (North Carolina).
Georgia stole the show. Lil Jon started the party by rapping “Turn Down for What.” Then, as the track to “Get Low” played, Lil Jon tweaked the words. “To the window, to the wall” became “VP Harris, Governor Walz.” It ended with Democrats cutting from the roll call to a live video of Harris and Walz stepping onstage in Milwaukee, where they held a rally on the same night.
Future Trends and Implications
The speeches delivered by the Obamas at the DNC not only highlighted their enduring influence within the Democratic Party but also reflected broader trends in American politics. The emphasis on unity and the call to action resonate with a growing desire among voters for authentic leadership and grassroots engagement. As political polarization continues to shape the landscape, the ability of candidates to connect with diverse demographics will be crucial.
Moreover, the integration of personal narratives, as seen in Emhoff’s introduction of Harris, suggests a shift towards more relatable and humanized political discourse. This trend could pave the way for future candidates to prioritize storytelling as a means of building trust and rapport with voters.
As the election approaches, the role of social media and digital platforms in mobilizing support will likely become even more pronounced. Candidates who can effectively leverage these tools to engage with constituents will have a distinct advantage. The DNC’s use of music and entertainment during the roll call exemplifies this trend, merging political messaging with cultural elements to create a more dynamic and appealing narrative.
Looking ahead, it is essential for political strategists to recognize the importance of authenticity, relatability, and cultural engagement in their campaigns. Emphasizing these elements could not only enhance voter turnout but also foster a more inclusive political environment that resonates with the diverse fabric of American society.
