The sugar high from Kamala Harris is still going strong: Insights from our DNC reporters
What unexpected moments occurred? Which speakers made a lasting impression? And will any of it resonate come November?
TroibNews 
There were several unanswered questions entering the convention this week.
People wondered about the extent of Joe Biden's participation in the Democrats' four-day event and whether it would seem out of place. Questions also revolved around how Kamala Harris would manage the transition, the potential impact of protests, the overall atmosphere, and the possibility of any unforeseen developments at such a meticulously organized affair.
Our journalists on-site in Chicago were tasked to shed light on their findings from the convention and its potential implications for the upcoming November elections. Here's their feedback.
What elements of the convention caught you off guard?
"The energy levels were remarkable. It even surpassed the high energy at the 2016 Philadelphia convention, where Democrats nominated Hillary Clinton. Despite speculation regarding when interest in Harris might decline, the enthusiasm for her candidacy is still very much alive," stated Megan Messerly, a Harris campaign reporter.
Eli Stokols, a White House reporter and co-author of West Wing Playbook, noted, "The displayed emotions were notable, particularly for a party recovering from a tough summer. Biden's tearful moment following Monday's lengthy applause was moving, as was the reaction of delegates and the emotional response to Gus Walz seeing his father on stage."
Steven Overly, host of the PMG Tech podcast, highlighted the strategic use of social media influencers to amplify their online presence and engage younger voters. "As Harris spoke on Thursday, both traditional journalists and content creators covered the event, possibly hinting at a new campaign media strategy," he remarked.
Melanie Mason, from PMG California, expressed relief, "It certainly wasn't a repeat of 1968! Despite Republican predictions of chaos, the internal discord was less than feared, though there were daily protests and some controversy involving the DNC's agenda choices."
Several journalists, including Brakkton Booker, commented on the general ambience and thematic content, "Before the convention, Harris outlined her economic plans, yet specifics were lacking. Instead, the focus was on her biography and critiques of Trump."
Myah Ward noticed a patriotic fervor, "There was a strong emphasis on defining patriotism in contrast to the GOP's approach under Trump, fitting with Harris' focus on 'freedom.'"
Celebrity participation was significant as well, Emily Ngo pointed out, "From musicians to athletes, many supported Harris, indicating the Democrats' close ties with Hollywood."
Among the memorable speakers, Shia Kapos recalled, "Adam Kinzinger’s critical stance on Trump was striking, posing an intriguing scenario for Democrats considering his potential future political role."
Lauren Egan questioned the lasting impact of the convention on the 2024 race, skeptical of any significant shift, "These conventions generally excite the base but rarely sway the broader electorate significantly."
However, Eli Stokols suggested, "While the overall effect might be fleeting, introducing Harris extensively might help some voters envision her as their next president."
In conclusion, though the convention primarily served to energize the Democratic base, it also provided a platform for distinctive messaging and may have subtly influenced public perception heading into the electoral race.The discussions around how the convention might shape the electoral landscape highlighted a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism among observers.
For instance, Lauren Egan remarked, "Not really, but I do think they highlighted some stark thematic differences between the two candidates and the two parties." She pointed out how the contrasting atmosphere during the conventions was telling — with the GOP's Milwaukee event characterized by an aggressive, combative vibe, while the Democrats’ gathering in Chicago reflected a tone of hope and joy.
On a similar note, Melanie Mason noted, "Not really. But I do think that individual speeches and moments could be repackaged for staying power as ads/TikToks/etc." This sentiment resonated with many, as certain standout phrases and emotional highlights from specific speeches could gain traction in targeted media campaigns. She referenced Adam Kinzinger's appeal to Republicans willing to cross party lines as a prime example.
Brakkton Booker added another angle: "I don’t know if it did, actually. This convention as well as the one the Republicans held last month amount to infomercials for the party faithful." He observed that while Democrats were riding high on enthusiasm, they must contend with ongoing criticisms from the Republican Party, especially in the context of continuing Biden-era policies.
Emily Ngo maintained, "It may in that delegates are leaving with plans and ambitions to get out the votes in their communities.” She believed the energy and planning initiated at the convention could inspire attendees to mobilize with renewed vigor in their respective locales.
Myah Ward was also intrigued by Harris's unusual political journey, reflecting, "I want to say no, but this is no normal campaign." She indicated the unpredictable nature of this election cycle could lead to unexpected outcomes, particularly given Harris's dynamic entrance into the race after Biden's departure.
As the convention concluded, attendees left with a sense of purpose and strategy, eager to translate the excitement of the event into actionable plans in their home states. The on-the-ground interactions and connections formed in Chicago could prove beneficial as Democrats concentrated on voter outreach in battleground areas.
In the weeks leading up to November, the party will undoubtedly leverage the memorable moments and speeches from the convention as they strive to solidify the gains made and navigate the challenges ahead. Ultimately, while the direct impact of the convention on poll numbers and public perception remains uncertain, the palpable enthusiasm and reinvigoration of party loyalty suggest that the Democrats are gearing up for a competitive election season unlike any in recent memory.
Thomas Evans for TROIB News
People wondered about the extent of Joe Biden's participation in the Democrats' four-day event and whether it would seem out of place. Questions also revolved around how Kamala Harris would manage the transition, the potential impact of protests, the overall atmosphere, and the possibility of any unforeseen developments at such a meticulously organized affair.
Our journalists on-site in Chicago were tasked to shed light on their findings from the convention and its potential implications for the upcoming November elections. Here's their feedback.
What elements of the convention caught you off guard?
"The energy levels were remarkable. It even surpassed the high energy at the 2016 Philadelphia convention, where Democrats nominated Hillary Clinton. Despite speculation regarding when interest in Harris might decline, the enthusiasm for her candidacy is still very much alive," stated Megan Messerly, a Harris campaign reporter.
Eli Stokols, a White House reporter and co-author of West Wing Playbook, noted, "The displayed emotions were notable, particularly for a party recovering from a tough summer. Biden's tearful moment following Monday's lengthy applause was moving, as was the reaction of delegates and the emotional response to Gus Walz seeing his father on stage."
Steven Overly, host of the PMG Tech podcast, highlighted the strategic use of social media influencers to amplify their online presence and engage younger voters. "As Harris spoke on Thursday, both traditional journalists and content creators covered the event, possibly hinting at a new campaign media strategy," he remarked.
Melanie Mason, from PMG California, expressed relief, "It certainly wasn't a repeat of 1968! Despite Republican predictions of chaos, the internal discord was less than feared, though there were daily protests and some controversy involving the DNC's agenda choices."
Several journalists, including Brakkton Booker, commented on the general ambience and thematic content, "Before the convention, Harris outlined her economic plans, yet specifics were lacking. Instead, the focus was on her biography and critiques of Trump."
Myah Ward noticed a patriotic fervor, "There was a strong emphasis on defining patriotism in contrast to the GOP's approach under Trump, fitting with Harris' focus on 'freedom.'"
Celebrity participation was significant as well, Emily Ngo pointed out, "From musicians to athletes, many supported Harris, indicating the Democrats' close ties with Hollywood."
Among the memorable speakers, Shia Kapos recalled, "Adam Kinzinger’s critical stance on Trump was striking, posing an intriguing scenario for Democrats considering his potential future political role."
Lauren Egan questioned the lasting impact of the convention on the 2024 race, skeptical of any significant shift, "These conventions generally excite the base but rarely sway the broader electorate significantly."
However, Eli Stokols suggested, "While the overall effect might be fleeting, introducing Harris extensively might help some voters envision her as their next president."
In conclusion, though the convention primarily served to energize the Democratic base, it also provided a platform for distinctive messaging and may have subtly influenced public perception heading into the electoral race.The discussions around how the convention might shape the electoral landscape highlighted a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism among observers.
For instance, Lauren Egan remarked, "Not really, but I do think they highlighted some stark thematic differences between the two candidates and the two parties." She pointed out how the contrasting atmosphere during the conventions was telling — with the GOP's Milwaukee event characterized by an aggressive, combative vibe, while the Democrats’ gathering in Chicago reflected a tone of hope and joy.
On a similar note, Melanie Mason noted, "Not really. But I do think that individual speeches and moments could be repackaged for staying power as ads/TikToks/etc." This sentiment resonated with many, as certain standout phrases and emotional highlights from specific speeches could gain traction in targeted media campaigns. She referenced Adam Kinzinger's appeal to Republicans willing to cross party lines as a prime example.
Brakkton Booker added another angle: "I don’t know if it did, actually. This convention as well as the one the Republicans held last month amount to infomercials for the party faithful." He observed that while Democrats were riding high on enthusiasm, they must contend with ongoing criticisms from the Republican Party, especially in the context of continuing Biden-era policies.
Emily Ngo maintained, "It may in that delegates are leaving with plans and ambitions to get out the votes in their communities.” She believed the energy and planning initiated at the convention could inspire attendees to mobilize with renewed vigor in their respective locales.
Myah Ward was also intrigued by Harris's unusual political journey, reflecting, "I want to say no, but this is no normal campaign." She indicated the unpredictable nature of this election cycle could lead to unexpected outcomes, particularly given Harris's dynamic entrance into the race after Biden's departure.
As the convention concluded, attendees left with a sense of purpose and strategy, eager to translate the excitement of the event into actionable plans in their home states. The on-the-ground interactions and connections formed in Chicago could prove beneficial as Democrats concentrated on voter outreach in battleground areas.
In the weeks leading up to November, the party will undoubtedly leverage the memorable moments and speeches from the convention as they strive to solidify the gains made and navigate the challenges ahead. Ultimately, while the direct impact of the convention on poll numbers and public perception remains uncertain, the palpable enthusiasm and reinvigoration of party loyalty suggest that the Democrats are gearing up for a competitive election season unlike any in recent memory.
Thomas Evans for TROIB News
