National Democratic Convention: A Look Into Rising Stars
CHICAGO — This year at the Democratic National Convention, the spotlight doesn’t just fall on long-standing politicians. It turns to reveal the emerging leaders, the rising stars who are about to make their mark on the American political landscape. An unexpected name roars from the crowd, Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, co-chair of the Convention, twenty years after her first attendance.
A New Generation of Leadership
“I am doing this for all of the rising stars who are watching me,” says Flanagan, becoming a symbol of this “passing of the torch”. The high-profile appearances from Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders having taken a backstage to these fresh faces, full of energy and innovation, poised to take on the future of American politics.
Among these rising stars is Texas U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett and young leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. These are the new politicians creating waves, stimulating excitement among attendees, and emerging as the future leadership. “If we don’t have younger people coming up, talented younger people, then as a party, we die,” states delegate and long-standing attendee Betsy Wells.
Up-and-comers and the Changing Face of Leadership
The convention, ostensibly poised to celebrate Democratic President Joe Biden, instead sees Vice President Kamala Harris stepping forward, with figures as Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and Arizona U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly fueling conversations. By the time the next presidential primary cycle rolls around, a completely new and dynamic generation of leaders will be ready to assume control.
Even 60-year-old Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor and Harris’ running mate, who was unknown until recently, is considered a refreshing energy boost carrying the party forward. His electric appearances generate excitement and reinvigorate discussions, as the delegates eagerly anticipate the future.
The Face of the Future
The future direction of the Democratic party, after Biden, is vague, but the rising stars seem to be much younger and dynamic. The first Gen Z member of Congress, Florida U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, brings youthfulness and anticipation to the caucus meetings, proving popular among attendees. The young and diverse leaders on display reflect the changing demographic and opinion of America.
Potential new leaders need to be ‘real and authentic’ to attract the next generation of voters, according to Paul Young, Mayor of Memphis. The future is ready for change, and it is happening now.
As the convention moves forward, these rising stars continue to stir anticipation and excitement, promising a dynamic and inclusive future for the party and the country. But for now, as Flanagan said, the focus remains on the task at hand: ensuring the success of the Democratic ticket in the upcoming election.
“We can’t take anything for granted,” she said. “This is just fuel to the fire for the next 77 days.”
