Democratic Convention: Biden as the opener and Harris ready to shine.

This year's Democratic convention is shaping up to be a historic event, not only as the stage where Kamala Harris will formally accept the presidential nomination but also for the unusual role that current president Joe Biden will play. Recently, Biden was considered the party's undisputed candidate, but his abrupt decision to step back has transformed his role into that of a supporting act, with his eyes set on the legacy he will leave and the future of the party. This dynamic not only redefines his position within the Democratic Party but also highlights the tensions and expectations surrounding his administration. At 81 years old, Biden will deliver a speech at the convention's opening that is sure to be filled with a mix of emotions. On one hand, there is relief at having made a decision that, according to many analysts, could benefit the party in its fight against the re-election of former president Donald Trump. On the other hand, there is a deep unease stemming from his sudden sidelining in a political race to which he has dedicated much of his life. William Galston, an analyst at the Brookings Institution, has noted that this speech resembles that of a celebrity opening act, underscoring the emotional complexity Biden will face at a moment that should be a celebration of his legacy. Former president Trump has begun to capitalize on this situation, launching sarcastic remarks about Biden's lack of prominence at the convention. His ability to take advantage of the Democratic instability once again highlights how the current political landscape is in constant flux. Trump's rhetoric reflects not only his campaign strategy but also the public perception of a Biden who, although still president, has lost some of his shine on the road to re-election. The significance of the convention is heightened by the fact that Biden, while having decided to step back, has expressed his commitment to Harris's success. His goal is to pave the way for the new candidate to shine without the shadows that his own administration might cast. This approach reveals a political maturity that is often overlooked but could be crucial at this moment of transition. Despite his efforts, Biden has not been able to escape the criticism and frustration that have been growing within his party. During a recent interview, he acknowledged that the pressure from his own allies led him to withdraw his candidacy. This admission speaks to a political environment where loyalty and expectations can be overwhelming, and where a president's public image can be more fragile than it appears. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris is poised to face the challenge of defining her own political identity in a limited time. With less than three months before the elections, her task is monumental: she needs to establish her electoral platform while navigating the complexities left by Biden's administration. Her inaugural speech will focus on the economy, a crucial topic that could be the deciding factor in attracting voters. Harris's opportunity to step out of Biden's shadow and carve her own path is a double-edged sword. While the president's support may provide her with a boost, it could also lead to constant comparisons linking her to the decisions made by her predecessor. The expectation of how she will manage to distinguish herself from that association will be a recurring theme in the campaign narrative. The days following the convention will mark a significant shift in the political landscape. Following his speech, Biden plans to retreat to his vacation, which could be interpreted as a way to avoid potential tensions that may arise from seeing Harris become the new face of the party. However, his absence could be both a blessing and a curse, as his legacy will continue to weigh on the new campaign. As the pieces of the political puzzle are rearranged, the focus shifts to Harris and her ability to connect with an electorate that has been divided in recent years. This event will not only reflect her leadership but also test the resilience of the Democratic Party in an increasingly complicated political context. Like the opening act preparing to pass the baton, Biden has the important task of forging a path that allows Harris to shine. Against the backdrop of an electoral contest filled with uncertainty, the Democratic convention becomes a crucial event for the immediate future of not only the party but the country as a whole.