Harris makes surprise appearance at Democratic National Convention

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - US Vice President and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance Monday on the first night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois.

"This is going to be a great week, and I want to kick us off by celebrating our incredible president, Joe Biden, who will be speaking later tonight," Harris said in her brief address at the United Center.

Drawing cheers from the crowd, she said: "Joe, thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to our nation, and for all you will continue to do. We are forever grateful to you."

Last month, Biden announced that he was dropping out of the 2024 race for the White House, ending his bid for reelection.

After offering his "full support and endorsement" for Harris to be the Democratic Party’s nominee, she officially launched her presidential campaign. Harris chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to be her running mate in the race.

Harris is scheduled to speak on Thursday, the final day of the convention, when she will formally accept the party’s nomination for president.

"This November, we will come together and declare with one voice, as one people, we are moving forward," she said.

If elected on Nov. 5, Harris would make history as the country’s first female president.