(NEXSTAR) – After celebrating President Joe Biden’s achievements and Hillary Clinton’s historic campaign on the first night of the Democratic National Convention, Democrats on Tuesday brought out another lineup of familiar faces to support Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign.
Former President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, and second gentleman Doug Emhoff headlined night two of the convention.
In his primetime speech, a “fired up” Barack Obama warned the crowd that even though “the torch has been passed” to Harris, the work for Democrats is not yet done.
“For all the incredible energy we’ve been able to generate over the last few weeks, this will still be a tight race in a closely divided country — a country where too many Americans are still struggling and don’t believe government can help,” he said. “Make no mistake, it will be a fight.”
He also saluted Biden, saying, “History will remember Joe Biden as a president who defended democracy at a moment of great danger. And I am proud to call him my president, but even prouder to call him my friend.”
Former first lady Michelle Obama likened the energy in the Democratic party to her husband’s campaign 16 years ago.
“Something wonderfully magical is in the air, isn’t it,” she said. “It’s the contagious power of hope. America, hope is making a comeback.”
The involvement of high-profile figures like the Obamas highlights the party’s dedication to mobilize a broad base of voters for the upcoming election.
On a personal note, the second gentleman talked about his middle-class upbringing, working at McDonald’s and still keeping in touch with the friends he grew up with. He also praised his wife.
“She’s showing you what you already know, she is ready to lead,” Emhoff said, imploring the crowd that Harris will bring joy and a steady hand to the White House.
Earlier in the evening, a symbolic roll call in which delegates from each state pledged their support for the Democratic nominee turned into a party atmosphere. A DJ played a mix of state-specific songs — and Atlanta native Lil Jon ran out during Georgia’s turn to his hit song with DJ Snake, “Turn Down for What,” to the delight of the thousands inside the United Center.
The second day of the DNC follows an opening night that was designed to give a graceful exit to the incumbent president, who was greeted with a hero’s welcome for stepping aside for Harris.
Biden’s appearance will likely be remembered for the emotional introduction by his daughter Ashley, and his fiery defense of his accomplishments as he echoed his 2020 warning about the risks to democracy if former president Donald Trump wins a second term. Biden was frequently interrupted with chants of “Thank you, Joe.”
With Biden’s public endorsement secured, the convention shifts to targeting the handful of key swing states Harris and running mate Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota will need in November to retain the White House for Democrats.
The Harris campaign said it will spotlight “trusted messengers” from these states over the convention’s three remaining days. They include Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada; Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Sen. Gary Peters and Rep. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan; Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania; and Sen. Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. From Arizona, Sen. Mark Kelly will speak along with John Giles, the Republican mayor of Mesa.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.