CHICAGO – On Wednesday evening, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz embraced his identity as a relatable figure while accepting the Democratic nomination for vice president, reminiscing about his past as a high school teacher and coach.

Kamala Harris’ choice of a lesser-known governor from a state not pivotal in the Electoral College might seem like a gamble to some.

Critics suggested she required someone from a more moderate or swing state, but for many progressives, Walz represents an ideal choice and highlights the Democrats’ commitment to their core supporters.

As the keynote speaker for the evening, Walz energized the audience with mentions of his achievements as governor, including efforts to lower prescription drug costs and the implementation of free school lunches, while also advocating for abortion rights and gun control. He emphasized that the essence of his progressive beliefs and his contrasts with the Republican ticket hinges on mutual respect for all individuals.

“They may not share your beliefs or practices, but they are your neighbors, and we must care for our neighbors,” Walz stated.

However, the highlight of the night was not just Harris’ pick for running mate; it also included a surprise appearance by the well-known Chicago figure: Oprah Winfrey.

“Who says you can’t find your way home again?” the former talk show host, identifying as an independent voter, asked the audience.

The third night of the DNC largely featured speakers highlighting Harris’ past as a prosecutor, focusing on her efforts against cartels and domestic violence. The overarching theme was one of freedom, especially regarding reproductive rights.

Several Democratic speakers attempted to reclaim topics traditionally associated with conservatives by addressing immigration and the bipartisan initiatives on border security that Republican nominee Donald Trump allegedly instructed his party members to abandon.

A poignant moment occurred when Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin spoke about their son, Hersh, a 23-year-old American-Israeli man abducted following a terrorist attack on Israel last October. Their heartfelt address prompted a call from a group of uncommitted delegates who urged for a Palestinian voice to be included on the main stage.

While the ongoing conflict in Gaza is not frequently addressed within the United Center, discussions during the convention have highlighted the Democratic divisions over how to manage the situation, which has claimed approximately 40,000 Palestinian lives.

Here are some key moments from Day 3 of the DNC.

‘A dad in plaid’ highlights from Walz’s address

Democrats went all out to depict Walz as an everyday guy from a small town, with Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar introducing him as a “dad in plaid.”

They even arranged for former students and football players to join him on stage wearing jerseys while also highlighting his military experience, which has faced criticism from the Republicans.

The narrative was clearly targeted at Midwest voters, particularly in rural, predominately white working-class areas where Democrats have faced challenges. However, Walz did not shy away from his progressive stance and accomplishments as Minnesota’s governor on social and economic issues.

Walz reminded party supporters of his journey, having run for Congress in a historically Republican district and won. “Never underestimate a public school teacher,” he proclaimed.

His speech had the energy of a high school pep rally as the audience began chanting “coach.” Walz expressed his gratitude to supporters for “bringing the joy to this fight” and thanked Harris for his role as her running mate and chief advocate.

Walz took aim at Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, asserting that Harris is prepared for the job and will focus on easing financial burdens for Americans, including tax cuts for the middle class, lower prescription drug costs, and more affordable housing.

“Our responsibility — for everyone watching — is to engage in the hard work and tackle issues step by step,” Walz remarked.

Parents of Hamas hostages share their story, stirring a response

A somber moment enveloped the convention hall on Wednesday as Rachel Goldberg recounted her son, Hersh, being taken by Hamas while attending the Nova Music Festival.

On October 7, 2023, in Israel, a mother described her son as “happy-go-lucky, easygoing, humorous, respectful, and inquisitive,” but mentioned that since his abduction, they have felt like they are “on another planet.”

Jon Polin, Hersh’s father, emphasized that the release of his son and other hostages should not be a political matter but rather a “humanitarian issue.” As they concluded their statements, they expressed a heartfelt wish for their son to “survive” if he could hear them.

However, this moment quickly became part of a broader, contentious discussion.

A group of undecided delegates protested outside the United Center, stating they had requested the Harris campaign and convention organizers to allow someone to speak about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, but their requests were denied.

Abbas Alawieh, an undecided delegate from Dearborn, Michigan, spoke to reporters, asserting that the “level of suppression is unacceptable” and vowed that they would continue to advocate for changes in U.S. policy and an end to the conflict.

“We aren’t even asking you to change the policy right now, just for this specific request,” he explained. “We do want policy changes, but we merely want to be heard.”

In a moment of emotional turmoil, Alawieh discussed the destruction in Gaza and the tragic reports of children killed by the Israeli military, urging for these events to stir the nation’s conscience.

“Palestinian children need their voices to be amplified,” he declared.

Oprah’s Surprise Endorsement of Harris

Oprah Winfrey, the renowned media mogul, made a surprise entry into national politics, delivering a powerful argument for Harris’s candidacy.

Her appearance was unexpected, announced only hours before she took the stage at the convention.

“After seeing the Obamas last night, it was inspiring. We are energized and ready to leave here and ‘take action,’” she remarked, echoing a sentiment from former First Lady Michelle Obama’s speech.

“And our action will be to elect Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States,” Winfrey affirmed.

Unlike other Democratic figures this week, Winfrey refrained from mentioning Trump directly, yet it was clear to whom she was alluding.

“Decency and respect are at stake in this election,” Winfrey stated, making a direct appeal to independent voters and those still undecided.

“Let’s prioritize loyalty to the Constitution over loyalty to any individual, as that represents the best of America,” Winfrey urged. “Let’s embrace optimism instead of cynicism and inclusion rather than retribution, because that reflects the best America has to offer.”

“Let’s choose joy!” she proclaimed passionately.

The most enthusiastic applause came when Winfrey highlighted the groundbreaking nomination of Harris, who could make history as the first Black woman president if she defeats Trump in November.

“Before long, we’ll be telling our children how this daughter of an Indian mother and a Jamaican father—two optimistic, hardworking immigrants—grew up to become the 47th president of the United States.”

‘Thank You, Joe,’ Says Pelosi Amid Tensions with Biden

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi aimed to resolve any lingering tensions with President Joe Biden during her tribute to him at the convention.

Pelosi had previously pushed Biden to withdraw from the election last month.

At her address, she praised Biden for having “one of the most successful presidencies in recent history,” citing the efforts of the Democratic Party in the past four years to secure funding for infrastructure, lower drug prices, tackle climate change, and other progressive initiatives “thanks to President Biden’s vision for a fairer America.”

“Thank you, Joe,” Pelosi expressed.

It has been reported that Biden has been left frustrated with Pelosi since his announcement on July 21 to step back from the race and endorse Harris as his successor.

Pelosi raised concerns, along with other Democratic leaders, about Biden’s chances against Trump in the upcoming election. “He’s upset with Nancy Pelosi, viewing her actions as ruthless for pushing him to exit,” Politico noted last week.

Before departing from Chicago, Biden addressed reporters, further denying these claims. “My decision was solely my own. Nobody saw it coming,” he stated, confirming that he hasn’t communicated with Pelosi since making his announcement.

Regarding Harris, she remarked that her fellow Californian Democrat – a long-time acquaintance due to their shared connections in San Francisco – is “prepared to lead us towards new opportunities.”

“She is a strong leader, knowledgeable and articulate on policies, especially shown in her recent advocacy for women’s right to choose,” Pelosi concluded.

Bill Clinton’s Mixed Legacy with Today’s Democrats

Once upon a time in the 1990s, William Jefferson Clinton led the Democratic Party and was regarded as one of the most effective political communicators of his time.

“It seems like we have a clear choice. Kamala Harris for the people, and the other candidate who has demonstrated, more than before, that he is all about himself,” Clinton remarked to the audience at the convention. “I know which option I’d prefer for our nation.”

At 78 years old, Clinton, recognized as the last president of the 20th century, joked that he feels too old to be speaking now but pointed out he is still “younger than Trump,” which drew laughter from the crowd. His participation is intended to highlight the overwhelming support Harris has from the party’s current and former leaders, in contrast to Trump.

Despite his age, many party members, especially in Pennsylvania, reportedly believe Clinton, affectionately called the “big dog,” could be valuable during this election campaign.

However, showcasing the former president might also alienate younger Democrats who struggle to overlook the controversies surrounding Clinton’s presidency, notably his extramarital affair with an intern—issues that resonate differently today, particularly in the #MeToo era.

Chicago PD and FBI Investigate Delegate Breakfast Incident

Yikes!

One of the more unpleasant incidents at the DNC convention involved pranksters who introduced bugs into a delegate breakfast on Wednesday, as stated by the Chicago Police and the FBI.

Both law enforcement agencies are looking into the matter concerning “unknown female offenders” who allegedly placed “creatures onto tables with food.” One eyewitness claimed the critters looked like crickets, while others suggested they could have been maggots.

This bizarre event occurred at the Fairmont Hotel, where delegates from Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, Missouri, and South Dakota were staying. At least one individual required medical attention and was treated and released on-site.