The Democratic National Convention opened Monday in a tense Chicago with DNC Chair Minyon Moore formally gaveling the session to order beside Jaime Harrison, chairman of the Democratic National Committee.
Mr. Harrison said the Democratic Party “will always be for the people, for our future.”
About 5,000 delegates from across the nation have gathered at the United Center to hear Vice President Kamala Harris accept the party’s nomination for president on Thursday.
Thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters and other activists also have gathered in Chicago, marching in opposition to the administration’s policy in support of Israel in its war in Gaza. There is a heavy police presence in the city monitoring the protesters, with security measures including streets lined with barricaded and police helicopters circling overhead.
As the convention was starting, some protesters were trying to breach metal fencing at the security perimeter around the United Center.
Other speakers this week will include Ms. Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz; former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, and President Biden on Monday night.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson welcomed the delegate by calling the host town a “city of hard work and caring people.” He said Ms. Harris “will always have our backs.”
Ms. Harris has been waging a whirlwind campaign since Mr. Biden, 81, dropped out of the race on July 21.
• Dave Boyer can be reached at dboyer@washingtontimes.com.
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