CHICAGO — Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, the first Black woman to serve in the role, says she raises her four daughters with a straightforward motto: ‘You can’t be what you can’t see.”
It’s why Stratton believes in Vice President Kamala Harris’ bid to become the 47th President of the United States, breaking barriers in the process.
“You’re always fighting every single day to create a world where they can see themselves in every room where decisions are being made,” Stratton told WGN Evening News anchor Micah Materre before opening night of the Democratic National Convention. “Now, they will finally get to see a Black woman, right there, shattering this glass ceiling, if we all do our parts here at the Democratic National Convention and win this election, which I expect we will do.”
As a Black woman in politics, Stratton says she isn’t pulling for Harris solely because of the history behind her nomination.
“She is the most qualified,” Stratton said. “[Harris] is the one that’s ready to lead this country and she is the one to beat Donald Trump.”
As excitement builds around a new Democratic leader, Stratton reflected on one seemingly prepared to walk into the proverbial sunset, President Joe Biden.
“An incredible leader,” Stratton said. “Who has served as a true public servant for 50 years and stepped up to what’s right for his country.
“He’s one of the most effective Presidents that we’ve ever had.”
With news of Biden opting not to seek re-election, attention shifted to Harris and who she would select to join her on the Democratic ticket. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker’s name was among those floated as a potential running mate.
“He’s a fantastic leader and I feel so honored to serve alongside of him,” she said.
Touting his success in infrastructure investment, the protection of women’s rights and balancing the state budget, Stratton said she understood the vice presidential buzz surrounding Pritzker.
“We didn’t know what the outcome would be, but I always said, “’Why wouldn’t you look at him?’ He’s a great leader.”
Ultimately, Harris seleced Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to join her on the 2024 presidential ticket, but Stratton’s anticipation has not waned for the pair to take the reigns, with the starting point in the race to November officially beginning this week at the United Center.
“Chicago is looking beautiful,” she said. “Everyone is here. Everyone is happy. The excitement is on peak levels.”
Democrats are hosting their nominating convention in Chicago August 19-22. Chicago has hosted Democrats 12 times, the last being nearly 30 years ago when President Bill Clinton was nominated for a second term.
Watch the complete interview in the video player above.