A nostalgic journey: The Democratic National Convention’s reflection on past glories
A look back to move forward
There’s something undeniably compelling about the allure of nostalgia. As the Democratic National Convention (DNC) gears up to introduce a candidate whose mission is to change the conversation, it has, somewhat paradoxically, leaned into reflecting on past glories. This juxtaposition of looking back while aiming to move forward creates a fascinating dynamic.
Kamala Harris’ rallying cry
Vice President Kamala Harris, who has taken the mantle from President Joe Biden as the Democrats’ standard-bearer, has consistently emphasized, “We’re not going back.” Her message is clear: the nation should not revert to the days of the Trump presidency. However, the convention built around her, featuring prominent figures from Democratic Party history, seems to echo a different sentiment, reminiscent of the famous line from the drama “Lost” — “We have to go back!”
The balance of past and present
It’s not unusual for political conventions to feature former party leaders. These events often serve as celebrations of past achievements that might inspire future victories. However, the balance at this convention seems skewed. Hillary Clinton’s speech, while a tribute to Harris, also revisited her own electoral career and significant moments. Her references to “It Takes a Village” and her 2016 concession speech, coupled with her exit to “Fight Song,” felt like a condensed version of her own Eras Tour.
Similarly, Bill Clinton’s speech, intended to endorse the Harris-Walz ticket, read more like a valedictory address for himself. He recalled the infamous incident from the 1988 DNC when he overran his keynote address as Governor of Arkansas. This focus on past leaders, while nostalgic, overshadowed the opportunity to spotlight new voices.
The rise of new stars
Historically, the DNC has been a platform for rising stars. Twenty years ago, it catapulted an Illinois state senator named Barack Obama into the national spotlight. His speech on unity transcended party lines and set him on a path to the Senate and eventually the White House. This year, Obama revisited many of the same themes, even making a light-hearted joke about Trump’s genitalia.
However, the convention’s focus on the Obama and Clinton families, with their past political dramas, has overshadowed newer voices. Incumbent President Joe Biden, relegated to a near-hourlong speech on the first night, chose to leave the scene after speaking, missing the speeches of his fellow Democratic Presidents. This left little room for emerging leaders like Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who seemed to exist in the shadows of the major personalities.
A missed opportunity for new voices
There were attempts to give new voices a platform. New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez delivered a fiery and compelling speech on the convention’s first night. However, it might have been more impactful if expanded and placed closer to the new nominee’s ascendance. Maryland Governor Wes Moore also delivered a confident speech, but it was lost in a program that lacked rhythm and coherence. The convention’s structure, with speaker after speaker, buried new voices in a wall of noise.
The challenge of engaging younger voters
The DNC’s reliance on legacy acts like Pink, John Legend, and celebrity hosts from the past, such as Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn from “Scandal,” raises questions about its appeal to younger voters. Oprah Winfrey’s long speech, while nostalgic, felt unfocused. Legacy acts may sell records, but do they excite an 18-year-old in Milwaukee, Detroit, Phoenix, or Atlanta deciding whether to vote?
The burden on Harris and Walz
It seems the breakout stars of this cycle are Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz. The convention has placed a significant burden on them to carry the momentum. However, Harris has expressed that she is unburdened by the past. The DNC’s nostalgic approach may be a test they believe she can pass.
A moment of authenticity
Amidst the nostalgia, there were moments of authenticity. Cole Emhoff’s video introducing Doug Emhoff, Kamala Harris’ husband, was a refreshing and contemporary touch. It provided a glimpse of genuine connection amidst the trappings of past conventions.
the DNC’s blend of nostalgia and forward-looking ambition creates a complex narrative. While the focus on past glories may overshadow new voices, it also sets the stage for Harris and Walz to define their own path forward. The challenge lies in balancing the celebration of past achievements with the need to inspire and engage a new generation of voters.
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