A month prior, the third evening of the Democratic National Convention was anticipated to spotlight Vice President Kamala Harris. However, with President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 race, the event scheduled for Wednesday in Chicago will instead serve as the introduction of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to voters.

Walz has received praise from the left for his initiatives on free school lunches, abortion rights, and the “trans refuge” legislation. Conversely, conservatives have criticized him for the tax increases necessary to fund these policies, attributing them to the state’s sluggish economy. His record—military and otherwise—has been a common topic since Harris revealed her selection for vice president earlier this month. Will he defend his record vigorously during his speech, or will he moderate his “Midwest Nice” and “weird” remarks to appeal to more centrist voters?

With just 76 days remaining until Election Day, opinion columnists from YSL News have plenty to discuss regarding the changes in the Democratic lineup. We will provide live commentary and insights, along with direct coverage from the convention at the United Center.

Bill Clinton took to the stage with a raspy voice and a poignant message

“Goodness, I’m feeling my age.”

Former President Bill Clinton addressed the crowd with a raspy tone and an emotional message. He recognized that he might not have many more Democratic National Conventions (DNCs) left to attend, as he just celebrated his 78th birthday.

Although Clinton is known for his ability to resonate with audiences, his speech this time came across as particularly genuine and heartfelt compared to others I have heard throughout the years.

Many might not have been eager to hear him speak on Wednesday night, but when he emphasized that choosing this team, this “breath of fresh air,” is something future generations could take pride in, there was a resonant agreement in the room.

— Carli Pierson, YSL News

Voters overwhelmingly favor Tim Walz over JD Vance

As America gears up to officially welcome Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz at the Wednesday night DNC, it’s evident that voters are far more favorable towards the amiable governor of Minnesota than the increasingly uncomfortable Republican VP nominee, JD Vance.

A new poll from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicates that among individuals familiar with Walz, he boasts a favorable rating of +11 points.

In contrast, Vance, for those who have formed an opinion, has a troubling unfavorable rating of -17 points.

Ouch.

Another survey from the Saint Anselm College Survey Center at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics revealed that Walz is “much more popular” than Trump’s running mate, Sen. JD Vance, showing a favorability rating of 50%-41%, making him the most favored among the four candidates. Vance, on the other hand, has lower popularity than Trump himself, who has a favorability rating of 41%-53%.

This difference likely stems from how Walz presents himself as the helpful neighbor ready to assist with your lawnmower, while Vance comes off as the nosy neighbor who complains about your fence.

— Rex Huppke, YSL News

Democrats reach out to country music fans with Maren Morris and Mickey Guyton

Mickey Guyton performed “All American” during the first night of the Democratic National Convention, followed by Americana singer Jason Isbell, who sang “Something More Than Free.” Their performances aimed to connect with working-class country music fans who may be growing weary of Trump’s actions. A strategic move indeed.

For years, while Democrats have focused on their diverse base by aligning with artists from more urban musical genres (for instance, Megan Thee Stallion’s four-song set at a Kamala Harris rally recently), country music has primarily aligned with the right.

It’s important for the Democrats to reshape the narrative that true American patriots should rally around the GOP. Amid all the excitement and celebrations on Monday night, Guyton and Isbell’s performances stood out as moments where the Democrats reached beyond their regular supporters.

However, while I appreciate the effort to reach out to voters outside their core group, I found it puzzling that there wasn’t more effort to connect with disillusioned members within it.

— Andrea Williams, The Tennessean

Republican from Georgia encourages GOP to support Harris

On the third night of the Democratic National Convention, former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan took the stage and did something that more prominent Republicans should consider: he offered a framework for conservatives to support Kamala Harris.

Duncan conveyed that after Trump made efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, he viewed him as a “direct threat to democracy, and his actions disqualified him from ever being allowed in the Oval Office again.”

Duncan urged “the millions of Republicans and independents who are fed up with making excuses for Donald Trump” to “dump Trump.”

In a powerful quote that captivated the audience – one I hope more Republicans will repeat – Duncan stated, “To my Republican friends watching at home: If you cast your vote for Kamala Harris in 2024, you are not a Democrat, you are a patriot.”

For the GOP to heal from the damage caused by a divisive convicted felon, it’s essential to distance itself from Trump. Although many recognize the threat he poses, they hesitate to support a Democrat.

As Duncan wisely pointed out, the nation must come before party allegiance. Let’s hope his message resonates.

— Rex Huppke, YSL News

On DNC Day 3, Trump’s bizarre MAGA rhetoric took center stage

As the Democrats geared up for the third night of their national convention in Chicago, the GOP presidential candidate was in North Carolina delivering a disjointed monologue about numerous things that aren’t actually happening in the U.S.

Below is a direct quote from Trump’s fantastical comments, where he suggested that countries in South America are alleviating their crime rates by sending their criminals to America. It’s important to note that border encounters have significantly dropped over the last five months, and crime rates in the U.S. have also decreased sharply.

Strap in:

“Our country is filled with criminals at this moment—the worst of the worst. They have released their inmates. They have cleared out their mental hospitals and sent them into our country, and they continue to do it. Many of these countries, honestly, who can blame them? They’re offloading their prisoners into the United States, including those from mental institutions. Any terrorists they may have, they’re sending them our way. We’re absorbing hundreds of thousands of individuals who were previously incarcerated for serious crimes. Just look at Venezuela; their prison population is half what it used to be. I’m surprised it’s only half; if I were running it, I would have cleared them out much quicker. They are relocating all their gang members, murderers, drug dealers to the U.S. while claiming crime rates have dropped by 72%. In fact, the next time we gather, let’s do it in Venezuela because it would be safer than here. If they take control, chaos will reign in our country.”

– Donald Trump

This appears to be the GOP’s response to the generally upbeat messages emanating from the DNC.

— Rex Huppke, YSL News

Planned Parenthood’s mobile clinic at the DNC delivers a striking message on reproductive rights

Not long ago, I was on a quest online looking for abortion pills for a friend in Florida. I couldn’t find any.

Mifepristone is the essential first medication in a two-pill regimen for a medication abortion (commonly referred to as the “abortion pill”). Following the Supreme Court’s decision, women and girls have been urgently trying to find these pills online.

When I learned that Planned Parenthood had set up a mobile clinic outside the DNC in Chicago offering abortion pills and vasectomies, I instantly thought of my grandmother.

My grandmother volunteered with Planned Parenthood until her chronic obstructive pulmonary disease made it too challenging for her to continue. Her personal experiences led her to support other men and women: Her mother lost her life during a botched illegal abortion in 1936. If abortion had been legal then, her life could have been saved, which would have prevented her father from turning to alcoholism and the subsequent trauma that affected their family.

The ability for a woman to make her own choices regarding her body has profound impacts on many individuals.

If Grandma were here today,

She would have been glued to each moment of the DNC broadcast, calling me to see if I had contributed to Planned Parenthood or Kamala Harris. If she were still around, she would be thrilled to see an advocate for abortion rights like Harris campaigning for the presidency.

Grandma, this DNC is dedicated to you.

— Carli Pierson, YSL News

The only way RFK Jr. could make it to the White House is by partnering with Trump

It’s been a tumultuous summer for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as he navigates being both a descendant and a challenge to one of America’s most renowned political families. His independent presidential campaign has struggled amid controversies and declining poll numbers.

This Wednesday, Kennedy’s campaign announced that he will “address the nation” on Friday in Phoenix regarding this significant historical period and his future plans.

Could that mean stepping out of the race and aligning himself with former President Donald Trump’s bid for another term?

Kennedy’s running mate, Nicole Shanahan, may have inadvertently revealed a key plot twist this Tuesday when she mentioned on a podcast that their campaign had two options: continue their fight against Vice President Kamala Harris or drop out and “unite with” Trump. Numerous news sources are now speculating that this may indeed be the case.

It’s known that Kennedy met with Trump last month just before the Republican National Convention, while he encountered a cold reception when attempting to meet with Harris recently.

Trump stated on Tuesday that he would “definitely” consider giving Kennedy a position in a future administration if Kennedy endorsed him and he emerged victorious in November.

This shift in perspective is noteworthy, as Kennedy was initially considered a potential threat to siphon votes from the Democratic nominee, but is now viewed as more likely to take votes from Trump.

— Chris Brennan, YSL News

Kudos to DNC for amplifying the voices of parents of Hamas hostage

I didn’t anticipate being surprised by much during the Democratic National Convention.

However, I was pleasantly taken aback when Democrats welcomed Chicago residents Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg-Polin to the stage on Wednesday. They are the parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was both kidnapped and injured by Hamas during the horrific attack on an Israeli music festival on October 7.

The couple received a standing ovation, along with chants from the audience urging to “bring them home,” in reference to the 109 hostages still under Hamas control.

Holding back their tears, the Polins delivered a moving account of the heartache they have endured in recent months, constantly aware that their only son remains captive to these terrorists.

Goldberg described her son in these terms:

“He’s 23 years old and, like Vice President Kamala Harris, Hersh was born in Oakland, California. Hersh is a cheerful, easy-going, respectful, and curious young man. He is a civilian, passionate about soccer, loves music and music festivals, and has had a fascination with geography and travel since childhood.”

This couple’s story starkly contrasts the actions of pro-Palestinian “protesters” causing disruption outside the convention, breaching security fences, and burning the U.S. flag among other unruly acts.

The Polins deserve recognition for bravely sharing their sorrow and highlighting the significance of October 7.

— Ingrid Jacques, YSL News

Michelle Obama addressed race. Good. Let’s bring it into the open.

Michelle Obama shared a necessary story on Tuesday night at the Democratic National Convention, putting racial issues at the forefront of the presidential election.

Not only did the former first lady provide insight to Americans who may not understand the Black experience in significant roles, but she also articulated a perspective that few others on stage could: she discussed the challenges Kamala Harris will face as a woman of Jamaican and Indian heritage running for president.

“In this race, only Kamala Harris truly understands the unseen labor and relentless dedication that has always propelled America forward,” Obama stated.

“Sadly,” she continued, “we are all too aware of what lies ahead.”

Trump has made numerous false allegations against former President Barack Obama, including the bizarre claim that his administration left the military without ammunition, that Obama had him wiretapped, and that Obama was not born in the U.S.

On Tuesday, Michelle Obama highlighted the misinformation regarding her husband, stating: “For years, Donald Trump did everything in his power to try to instill fear about us.”

The “us” she referred to includes educated African Americans.

This troubling behavior is recurring. Recently, Trump raised questions about Kamala Harris’s nationality at the National Association of Black Journalists convention in Chicago. During an interview that turned confrontational, he claimed he only recognized her Indian heritage until a few years ago.

— James E. Causey, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

In Ohio, foolish and racist Hulk Hogan suggests he wants to body slam Kamala Harris

While celebrity guest appearances at the Democratic National Convention have been generating buzz, such as Atlanta rapper Lil Jon’s unexpected “Turn Down for What” performance during Tuesday’s delegate roll call, a prominent figure from last month’s Republican National Convention is stirring controversy.

Wrestler Hulk Hogan, who expressed admiration for GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump during the RNC’s concluding night, appeared at an event in Ohio where he asked the audience if he should “body slam Kamala Harris” and questioned the biracial Democratic presidential nominee’s racial background, asking, “Is Kamala a chameleon? Is she Indian?” and then yelled “How!”, a deeply offensive stereotype associated with Native American culture.

His remarks reflect not only his ignorance but also his misunderstanding between individuals of South Asian descent and those of Native American descent.

Overall, this incident excellently illustrates the caliber of individuals the Republicans attracted to their convention.

On Wednesday night at the DNC, according to CNN, John Legend is set to perform, followed by Pink on Thursday. It’s unlikely either will comment on body slamming Trump.

— Rex Huppke, YSL News

Has anyone forgotten Joe Biden is still president?

One thing that stands out during the Democratic National Convention this week is how quickly party supporters seem to have moved past President Joe Biden.

It’s almost as if he’s been overlooked as president.

Biden had a speaking slot on Monday night, which is unusual for someone of his position, and he didn’t even start until after prime time: 11:30 p.m. ET.

The spotlight has largely been on Vice President Kamala Harris, who appears eager to assume the presidential nomination if Biden were to exit the race.

As I suggested in a recent piece:

“Shouldn’t Biden receive a bit more recognition?

He remains the president, and Harris owes her nomination largely to him. His late decision to step aside effectively guaranteed her nomination.”

— Ingrid Jacques, YSL News

The DNC protests are an essential aspect of our democracy

Thousands of demonstrators from 270 organizations have gathered in Chicago for the DNC, following a weekend of protests in support of Palestinians, and these events will continue throughout the week. This is a positive development.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators are exercising their rights and promoting vital discussions within the Democratic Party. They are urging us to reflect on the lives affected by U.S.-made weapons resulting in casualties and injuries.

It would be most beneficial for all parties to allow these protests to occur without drawing parallels to the 1968 DNC. How the party responds could influence whether the momentum Harris has gained will continue.

Meanwhile, the right seems to be anticipating chaos that may never materialize. Hopefully, this week will remain peaceful.

— Sara Pequeño, YSL News

Trump and Harris Miss Key Economic Principles

Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have surprisingly both chosen to reject established economic reasoning in favor of policies that appeal to populism.

Both leading candidates from the major parties have embraced questionable policies that might sound appealing if people overlook their potential repercussions. Renowned political strategist James Carville famously emphasized, “It’s the economy, stupid.”

We need politicians who genuinely grasp economic principles.

Disregard the narrative from Harris and Biden claiming that corporate greed is the sole reason for rising prices. A recent evaluation by the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco found that “increased markups have not significantly contributed to the recent inflationary surge and its subsequent decrease during this recovery period.”

In political discourse, inconvenient truths often get overshadowed by convenient scapegoats.

— Cameron Smith, The Tennessean

If You Appreciate the Harris Campaign, Thank Biden

If you’re pleased with what’s occurring at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this week, you owe it all to Joe Biden.

If you’re enjoying the chaos of Donald Trump’s reelection efforts, you can also attribute that to Joe Biden.

And if you’re thrilled about the Democrats’ upbeat message and newfound enthusiasm … well, you understand the connection.

None of the current happenings in the presidential race would be unfolding without Biden’s decision to step back and endorse Harris’ rise to lead the Democratic ticket.

Harris and her team have effectively launched her presidential campaign and gained momentum in the polls. Conversely, Trump and the GOP have significantly mismanaged their response. However, it all began with what can be seen as one of the most altruistic choices in U.S. political history.

— Rex Huppke, YSL News

Democrats Honor Abortion Access in Chicago

Alright, Democrats. We understand your position. It’s not just about expanding abortion rights across the nation; you’re celebrating it as well.

This message is clear from Chicago during the Democratic National Convention this week.

During the first two days of the convention, participants could schedule free medication abortions or vasectomies at a “mobile health clinic” facilitated by Planned Parenthood Great Rivers. The organization set up a massive RV near the convention site, and all slots were filled quickly.

During a tour of the clinic, Dr. Colleen McNicholas described the setting more like a trendy new venue rather than a healthcare facility where abortions occur.

“It’s just a standard healthcare office. Isn’t that thrilling?” she remarked in a video shared online.

I’m not sure “thrilling” accurately captures the complexity surrounding such significant actions.

On Sunday, before the DNC officially commenced, a contingent of women dressed as oversized abortion pills paraded down Michigan Avenue.

Additionally, there’s Freeda (Womb), an enormous inflatable intrauterine device (IUD) that will remain in Chicago for the week, courtesy of Americans for Contraception, which is on a cross-country tour.

This all feels somewhat excessive, doesn’t it?

— Ingrid Jacques, YSL News

For Harris to Stand Out, She Must Uphold International Law on Gaza

If Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, wishes to differentiate her campaign from President Joe Biden’s, she should begin by adhering to international human rights regulations.

The International Court of Justice stated in January that Israel must “take effective measures to prevent the destruction and ensure the preservation of evidence related to allegations of acts within the scope of the Genocide Convention.”

Israel has failed to comply.

Investigations by Human Rights Watch have shown that Israel continues to employ starvation as a method of warfare, which constitutes a war crime. This includes attacks on medical facilities and schools, in addition to a persistent blockade on humanitarian assistance – all of which violate international law.

Before considering Israel’s excessive response to Hamas’ attack on October 7, the prolonged occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, along with the blockade of Gaza and the closure of its borders, already constituted war crimes, based on the responsibilities outlined in the Fourth Geneva Convention.

With Gaza’s Ministry of Health reporting over 40,000 deaths – experts suggest this is a significant underreporting and estimate that the actual figure is approximately 186,000 – Harris faces a crucial choice.

Harris has the opportunity to shape her campaign and, hopefully, her future presidency with a commitment to international standards of conduct Human rights legislation is an excellent starting point.

— Carli Pierson, YSL News

Harris is outlining her policies at the DNC—Republicans need to challenge her on it.

Harris has seen a consistent improvement in her poll numbers, primarily because she offers an alternative to Biden and Trump. Voters are expressing their desire for a different choice.

However, this trend may change soon. I believe the shift is beginning to take shape.

As mentioned in a previous article, Trump and other Republicans should strategically critique Harris on her policies. Although she hasn’t proposed many policies to the public yet, the DNC commenced on Monday, marking a significant moment to showcase what a Harris administration might aim to achieve.

Harris and Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz now face the task of effectively communicating their progressive policy agenda to the American people.

This gives Republicans ample material to challenge in the coming weeks.

— Dace Potas, YSL News