US Democrats open convention transformed by Kamala Harris’ ascendance

A refreshed Democratic Party reintroduces itself to a divided nation this week, having been transformed by the money, momentum, relief and even joy that followed Vice President Kamala Harris ‘ rise to the top of its ticket.

The whiplash of the last month culminates in a convention that begins on Monday in Chicago.

Above all, the four-day gathering of thousands of activists and party leaders from across the nation is designed to celebrate and strengthen Ms Harris as President Joe Biden’s replacement and boost her campaign to defeat Republican Donald Trump in November.

Just beneath the surface, real questions loom about the depth of Ms Harris’ newfound support, the breadth of her coalition and the strength of her movement.

Not even a month ago, Democrats were deeply divided over foreign policy, political strategy and Mr Biden himself, who was holding on after his disastrous debate by suggesting he had a better chance than any Democrat — including Ms Harris — of beating Mr Trump.

Far from the formality that many modern party conventions have become, this week’s event will bring many Americans their first extended look at Ms Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

How the Democrats present Ms Harris and Mr Walz will be critical, especially with Mr Trump launching a weeklong effort to cut into their message.

A potential distraction will be thousands of progressive protesters who are expected to descend upon Chicago to decry the Biden-Harris administration’s support for Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza.

Ms Harris’ allies are hopeful that the pro-Palestinian protesters will not overshadow the official program, which features a slate of current and former Democratic stars.

“Democrats are walking into that convention enthused, excited and unified,” said one of those stars, Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, who was a finalist to be Ms Harris’ running mate.

“And it’s critically important that we prosecute the case against Donald Mr Trump and the chaos that he would bring — and leave that convention even more unified, even more excited, even more enthused for the final 75 or so days of this campaign.”

Mr Shapiro said he welcomed protesters during the convention — “provided the protest is peaceful, provided the protest follows the rules of the community.”

Mr Biden will get his farewell on Monday.