OPINION: Live from the Democratic National Convention

This week, I'm writing to you from the heart of Chicago, where the feeling is electric as Democrats make history.

The streets are alive with vibrant public art, the sounds of music floating through the air, and the tantalizing smells of delicious food. The architecture here is nothing short of spectacular, with each building a testament to human creativity. 

I'm here for the 2024 Democratic National Convention, one of 28 Democrats representing Idaho and my friends in Kootenai County. This convention is particularly moving, as it's the first in-person Democratic Convention in eight years, following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chicago is abuzz, expecting to host around 50,000 people including delegates, guests, vendors and members of the press. Chicagoans have welcomed us with open arms. The city feels filled with a palpable sense of unity. 

Democrats are energized to move forward together during this momentous time in American history. Procedures have been smooth and delegate credentialing processes have been defined by Democracy, order and unity. 

As the Democratic platform was approved and Gov. Walz was approved as the chosen Vice Presidential candidate, chants of “USA” rang out through the auditorium. We care about the future of this country. 

It’s clear that Democrats know how to lead, and that we are committed to protecting the promise of America for all. 

Our days are packed with caucus meetings and visits to the “Dempalooza,” a massive exhibition hall where vendors of all sorts have set up shop. From manicurists and political consultants to pollsters and podcasters, there’s a little something for everyone. And if you keep your eyes peeled, you might just spot a celebrity. So far, I’ve had the thrill of seeing Mark Hamill (yes, Luke Skywalker himself), Senator Cory Booker and Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi.

Every evening, the convention brings us face-to-face with America’s leading Democrats. President Biden kicked things off Monday with a moving speech, and we’ll hear from Vice President Kamala Harris as she closes the convention Thursday.

A significant moment is on the horizon: We'll be confirming Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz, in a voice vote. This follows the remote nomination of Harris two weeks ago, forced by a threatened exclusion from the ballot in Ohio. Now, we’ll be reaffirming that decision in person at the convention, and every Idaho delegate, myself included, has confirmed that we will proudly cast our vote for the Harris-Walz ticket.

Kamala Harris is a candidate of immense qualification, having served as a county prosecutor, attorney general, U.S. senator and vice president. She’s poised to become our nation’s first woman and second minority president — a milestone that’s long overdue.

Gov. Walz, as her vice president, is ready to lead from day one. His experience as a public school teacher, football coach and mentor has honed his ability to mediate conflicts, and as governor of Minnesota, he has consistently made smart, progressive choices.

The Harris-Walz ticket brings a much-needed sense of excitement and optimism to our nation. We are moving past the hatred, grievance and dishonesty of the MAGA years. As Vice President Harris boldly stated: “We are NOT going back.”

Instead, we’ll be focusing on the kitchen table issues that genuinely matter to Americans, issues that resonate with our values. Harris has clearly outlined our priorities: “The freedom to not just get by, but to get ahead, to be safe from gun violence, to make decisions about your own body. We choose a future where no child lives in poverty, where we can all afford health care … and where no one is above the law.”

These are values that Idahoans of all stripes share. After five days in Chicago, I know I’ll return to Kootenai County energized and ready to fight for a Democratic victory in November. As Kamala Harris so powerfully reminds us: “When We Fight, We Win!”

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Evan Koch is chairman of the Kootenai County Democrats.