The Democratic National Committee has scheduled former President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden to speak at its convention in mid-August.
While it is common for former presidents and prominent party figures to address conventions, it is rare for a sitting president to do so. For example, Lyndon Johnson, who chose not to seek reelection in 1968, did not attend that year’s Democratic National Convention.
Biden, however, will speak at the 2024 DNC, presumably to defend his administration’s policies of open borders, soaring inflation, and foreign chaos. “I’ve cured the economy and the environment and a few other small things,” he told reporters Tuesday.
Biden did not deliver a speech at the 2020 DNC, as the convention was held virtually. Instead, he accepted the party’s nomination from Wilmington, Delaware.
“‘Monday night is Joe’s night,’ said a source familiar with the planning. ‘And then he’ll turn the keys over’ to allow the event to focus on Vice President Kamala Harris,” CNN reported.
Obama and former President Bill Clinton are anticipated to speak on Tuesday night, though this schedule may change, according to sources familiar with the planning, as reported by CNN.
Additionally, two-time presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and former First Lady Michelle Obama might also make appearances.
“Convention is our opportunity to tell our story directly to the American people, rally behind the Democratic nominees, and grow our broad and diverse coalition to defeat Donald Trump,” spokesperson for the DNC Matt Hill told CNN.
