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Day 3 of the Democratic National Convention concluded with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz accepting the party’s vice presidential nomination, along with several surprising moments during the evening.
Notably, media mogul Oprah Winfrey made a surprise appearance and music legend Stevie Wonder energized the crowd with his performance of “Higher Ground.”
The night’s focus on reproductive rights, justice, and the theme of “joy” illustrated senior Democrats’ efforts to foster a sense of unity under Kamala Harris while highlighting the chaos associated with Donald Trump.
Key speeches from prominent figures captured the audience’s attention.
Tim Walz — Minnesota Governor
Governor Walz was met with a standing ovation and a wave of “Coach Walz” banners as he took the stage to deliver a brief yet impactful address, emphasizing his progressive policies and appreciation for Vice President Harris.
He concluded his speech with a rallying cry: “When we fight, we win!”
Bill Clinton — Former President
Former President Bill Clinton voiced gratitude towards President Biden and praised Vice President Harris, underscoring the significant stakes in the upcoming November election.
“Let’s cut to the chase. I am too old to gild the lily,” Clinton noted light-heartedly. He further emphasized, “In 2024, we have a clear choice: ‘We The People’ versus ‘Me, Myself, and I,’” referring to the Wednesday theme.
Oprah Winfrey — Media Mogul
Oprah Winfrey delivered a passionate endorsement of the Harris-Walz campaign, declaring, “We’re now so fired up, we can’t wait to leave here and do something, and what we’re going to do is elect Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States.”
Pete Buttigieg — Transportation Secretary
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg highlighted the night’s theme of “joy,” reflecting on personal experiences to emphasize the importance of belonging and acceptance.
He called for “better politics” and an end to what he termed Trump’s “politics of darkness.”
Amanda Gorman — Poet
Amanda Gorman captivated the audience with a powerful poem celebrating freedom and the importance of voting, aligning with the convention’s themes.
Wes Moore — Maryland Governor
Governor Wes Moore shared a personal reflection from his military service, indirectly contrasting his experiences with those who received deferments, emphasizing commitment to service.
Stevie Wonder — Musician
Stevie Wonder not only performed but also delivered a message of activism, urging the audience, “We must choose courage over complacency. It is time to get up and go vote.”
Geoff Duncan — Former Georgia Lieutenant Governor
Former Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan expressed his support for Harris, emphasizing a commitment to democracy over party loyalty. “I am a Republican, but tonight I stand here as an American,” he affirmed, acknowledging the need for bipartisan support against threats to democracy.
Olivia Julianna — Content Creator
Highlighting a first for the DNC, hundreds of social media creators, including Olivia Julianna, were invited to cover the event. Julianna actively encouraged political engagement among her audience.
Alexis McGill Johnson — Planned Parenthood President
Planned Parenthood President Alexis McGill Johnson addressed critical issues surrounding reproductive rights and access, declaring, “We cannot call ourselves a free nation when women are not free.”
Olivia Troye — Former Trump Administration Official
Former national security official Olivia Troye shared her experiences in the Trump administration, expressing her commitment to supporting Harris for her dedication to protecting freedom.
Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg — Parents of Hostage
Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg shared a heartfelt plea for a cease-fire, advocating for the safe return of their son, who has been held hostage by Hamas, showing the human impact of conflict.
