On Politics

Thu Aug 22 2024

Rebecca Morin | Senior National News Reporter

@RebeccaMorin_

Happy Thursday! I'm Rebecca Morin, senior national news reporter at USA TODAY. It's the last day of the Democratic National Convention, and can you believe I made it out for a morning jog today? Questions, comments, tips can be sent to rdmorin@usatoday.com.

19 days until the first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. 74 days until Election Day.

Harris steps out of Biden's shadow

It's finally Kamala Harris' moment. On Monday, the vice president emerged from behind President Joe Biden as he finished his emotional speech. And on Thursday, Harris will be the face of a new era of the Democratic Party. Will it look like Biden's, or will she forge her own path? Her allies said it's a little of both. Read more.

•	Her mother's daughter: What Shyamala Gopalan's legacy means to Kamala Harris
•	In Kamala Harris, some Black women see themselves
•	'A vibe I'm feeling': Here's what people are saying about Kamala Harris

But it's not all excitement for Harris at the DNC. Uncommitted delegates are holding a sit-in after no Palestinian speakers were booked to speak at the convention.

A politics pit stop

•	Some Black voters greet Harris campaign, DNC with apathy in Chicago. Here's why.
•	DNC schedule Thursday: See full list of events, where to watch Democratic convention.
•	Is RFK Jr. going to drop out of the presidential race? What to know.
•	Jewish Democrats have party loyalties tested in 2024 election
•	You can follow along here on all our live coverage of the last day of the DNC.

Gus Walz steals his dad's spotlight – but Coach Walz probably doesn't mind

The internet is buzzing about Gus Walz, the youngest son of the Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz, after he tearfully — and of course, joyfully — jumped up from his seat mouthing "That's my dad! That's my dad!" Read more.

•	'Forget politics': Gus Walz floored TV news hosts, from MSNBC to Fox News
•	Tim Walz's son Gus has a learning disorder. Can his visibility help disabled Americans?
•	Midwestern Democrats soak up the spotlight as Tim Walz ascends at the DNC

Behind the scenes

Look at our view! I was able to see a sneak preview on Wednesday of Stevie Wonder's speech and performance before he took the stage for real.

Stevie Wonder rehearses for night 3 of the Democratic National Convention.

Rebecca Morin/USA TODAY

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