Joe Biden Officially Declares Candidacy for President of the United States

An unprecedented event for extraordinary times: a social media gathering and television gala hosted by Hollywood star Eva Longoria Bastón. The Democratic Party of the United States is set to confirm its candidate for the presidential elections in the coming days. And that candidate is Joe Biden. This topic has been covered by Voice of America.

The first day of the televised event addressed racial tensions tearing the country apart. As Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser stated, "This is where, just a few weeks ago, after the death of George Floyd, Americans gathered and began to protest with masks on against police violence." The televised convention tried to maintain all its symbols, but the audience was distant, and most of the speeches were pre-recorded.

In her video message, former First Lady Michelle Obama stated she knows Joe Biden well, describing him as a deeply decent man who is guided by faith in his actions. "He has been an excellent vice president. He knows that one of the most important issues is saving the economy, overcoming the pandemic, and leading the country," said Michelle Obama.

For Democrats, it is crucial to demonstrate intra-party unity to defeat Donald Trump in the elections, which is being accomplished with the participation of former party contender, Senator Bernie Sanders. Sanders spoke about “the worst health crisis in a century, the collapse of the economy, racist manifestations, and climate issues.” He asserted, "Not only does the current president lack the ability to solve these issues, but he is steering us down the path of authoritarianism."

During the Democrats' convention, the support of moderate Republicans and independent figures was also important. Among them, former Ohio Governor John Kasich stated he has been a Republican all his life. "But that ranks second among my responsibilities to my country. That is why I am participating in this convention today," said Kasich.

Meanwhile, Republican President Donald Trump criticized the Democrats for their pre-recorded messages. "Next Thursday, we will put on real speeches and express our views live," Trump said from the White House, which his critics see as a move to politicize the historic presidential residence. Trump claims he is not violating the Hatch Act of 1939, stating, "Because it does not prevent executive branch officials from engaging in politics, it allows the president and vice president to do so."

Both conventions aim not only to confirm their candidates but also to influence voters.