Dispatches from the Democratic National Convention: Day 1 — UPDATED: The speeches

UPDATE: The speeches The Democratic National Convention serves as an opportunity for younger or up-and-coming politicians or leaders to speak to delegates, share their stories, and make a strong impression among the base. On Monday night, however, it was a handful of better-known folks who may have made the biggest impact. New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez took the stage to thunderous applause. She commanded the podium and gave a confident, forceful oratory both denouncing the former president, thanking the current one, and hyping the (hopefully) next one. Her determination and zeal brought the crowd to its feet several times and she fed off it, roaring over the cacophonous response which only gave her more impact. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton received a long-standing ovation; based on her reaction it seemed to be a bit warmer and more welcoming than she expected. She touched on her campaign in 2016 and stressed how Democrats must not be complacent or trust the polls too much. After all, who knows that better than her?, She spoke with a passion and conviction that showed how personal this election is to her. No doubt she dreamt of being the first female president, the one who would burst through the line and score the touchdown. But, at least to me, it seems she understood that she may have just been the fullback paving the way for the running back, Harris, to score. As different speakers reached the stage volunteers distributed signs for the crowd to hold up. "Union Yes!" "When we fight we win!" "USA" and "JILL" signs made their way down the rows and the delegates eagerly held them up to show support. Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock is a gifted speaker and his pastoral background was certainly on display. His unique cadence kept the crowd locked in and he comfortably deviated from the teleprompter to share a personal anecdote or unscripted bible verse. He and AOC showed they could have a future in higher office if they sought it. Lastly, after introductions from his friends, wife, and daughter, President Joe Biden took the stage. He was visibly moved by his daughter's introduction, hugged her, and had to wipe away some tears. This was perhaps the biggest stage Biden had held since his now infamous debate in June, and some folks rightly wondered what sort of performance he would give. However, it was clear from the jump that he was sharp, clear, focused, and ready. He reviewed his accomplishments as president highlighting his infrastructure bill, the CHIPS act, bipartisan gun control law, the American rescue plan, and many others. He poked fun at his age and singing ability ("can't sing worth a damn") but also delivered a stinging rebuke of Donald Trump and spelled out the danger a second term from the Republican would pose. Biden pounded the podium at times as the crowd chanted "Thank you Joe" on and off. Thanks to security delays and a late start the evening ran long but it ended on a high note. It was moving to see Biden and his family on stage one last time and Vice President Harris and her husband joined them in a final show of gratitude and appreciation. The president seemed to savor this moment. What seemed unthinkable in late June had happened - the torch had been passed. *** Day 1 of the 2024 Democratic National Convention began with a series of speakers during breakfast. The Ohio and South Dakota delegations heard from Sen. Nickie Antonio, Rep. Allison Russo and Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb among several other Ohio officials. Their topics varied but they shared common themes of excitement, enthusiasm, and optimism. Everyone expressed a strong sense of gratitude for President Joe Biden's accomplishments in office coupled with recognition of his patriotic decision to not seek a second term. In the Buckeye spirit of the "O-H" "I-O" call and response, we regularly heard the pattern of "When we fight" "We win!" channeling Vice President Kamala Harris' call to action. The morning program concluded with Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. Everyone knows about the evening programs since they are televised, but what do delegates do during the day? After picking up Monday's credentials, the group moved to the convention center. There you could visit the merchandise booth and purchase all the Harris for President hats, T-shirts, buttons, pins, and magnets you can think of. Naturally, souvenirs were flying off the rack. In the larger room next door, attendees poured into Demapalooza — picture a specialized trade show of causes, initiatives, and local merchants. One could easily find a table for supporters of ranked-choice voting, fighting climate change, reproductive rights, senior advocacy, voter turnout and countless other topics. Every booth had buttons, stickers, and trinkets for attendees to take, wear and support the cause. It was remarkable to see so many passionate people trying to bring attention to their subject. After a quick respite we boarded the buses to the United Center. In a break from tradition, President Joe Biden was scheduled to appear on Monday night which meant Secret Service, security and long lines to enter the arena. It took over an hour to get to the arena thanks to several delays. Despite that, everyone on my bus remained chipper and cheerful with anticipation building. Ohio delegates mingled with folks from Indiana, Missouri and Minnesota sharing stories and comparing how states operate. The program actually began while we were still on the bus across the street from the United Center. A few more lines for security later, we managed to get inside before the states' roll call. It's really something special to see a room full of people filled with such passion and drive to serve their communities and nation. Corey Barnes is the Democratic precinct chair for Avon 1-C and is attending the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this week. He will be sharing what he sees and does while there with The Chronicle-Telegram readers. This is his first time attending the convention.