The 2024 Democratic National Convention was a defining moment for the party as it showcased unity and a forward-looking agenda amidst a polarized political landscape.
There was an average of over 21 million viewers across all four days, and during Vice President Kamala Harris’ speech on the final day, 28.9 viewers were tuned in. In Chicago, delegates from across the country gathered to rally behind the party and its candidates.
More than 70 of those delegates came from Tennessee, and now, with the 2024 election cycle in the homestretch run-up to November, Tennessee delegates are taking time to reflect on the convention and the path forward. Not surprisingly Tennessee’s delegates left inspired and determined to build momentum for the upcoming election.
“This was more than a routine regular convention, this one has something different in the air,” said Lexie Carter, Chair of the Shelby County Democratic Party.
Lexie Carter was one of 77 delegates from the state of Tennessee who attended the Democratic National Convention, marking her fifth time attending this pivotal event. Although she has attended other historic conventions, including the 2008 convention for Barack Obama, she described the 2024 convention as an experience unlike any other. The energy, the sense of urgency, and the diverse coalition of voices came together in a way that left a profound impact on not only her but the entire Democratic party.
“I felt like all four days were just really amazing,” said Dottie Ferreira, the youngest member of the Tennessee Delegation. “It’s been probably a week, and it’s just kind of surreal.”
Dottie Ferreira, a first-time delegate and voter, also acknowledged the high energy during the convention. The planning, preparation, and execution in just a short amount of time exceeded everyone’s expectations, and the morale was high from the first day of the convention — “President Joe Biden” day at the convention.
“I think it made history. I don’t think there’s been a first day that could equal that,” said Carter.
The first day of the convention set the tone for what the next few days would entail. There was a surprise appearance from Vice President Kamala Harris, and it ended with a speech from President Biden that electrified not only the ones at the convention but the entire Democratic party.
The days that followed were filled with both Democratic and Republican speakers, and performances that continued the trend of energizing and unifying the party. Although all four days had palpable energy, the most impactful day was day four, when Kamala Harris accepted the presidential nominee and had her first speech as the official presidential candidate.
“The last day was just very important because that’s when Kamala came and addressed pretty much everything that she was planning on doing during her presidency,” said Ferreira. “I feel like everybody’s just excited because we know that she’s going to follow through with it.”
For many delegates, the convention was an opportunity to witness firsthand the unity and vitality within the Democratic Party. The event reinforced their commitment to the party’s values and highlighted the significance of their role in a state that has traditionally leaned Republican. The experience has galvanized them to work harder to ensure that the party’s message resonates with voters across Tennessee, particularly in areas where Democratic support has historically been weaker.
“There was this unity, and there was this willingness to get out and work hard,” Carter said. “One of the most profound statements made was: ‘We want to add this chapter to the greatest story ever told.'”
Looking ahead, the Tennessee delegates are focusing on mobilizing voters in their communities. They recognize that the key to success lies in grassroots efforts—engaging with voters face-to-face, listening to their concerns, and encouraging them to participate in the electoral process. The delegates plan to leverage digital tools, social media, and traditional outreach methods to connect with as many people as possible.
“What I tell people right now is, ‘I expect you to work harder than you have ever worked for a candidate in your life,'” said Carter. “I need everybody on the ground giving all that they can give because this is going to be a close election.”
There is also a strong sense of urgency among the delegates. They understand that the stakes are high, and they are prepared to tackle the challenges ahead with a renewed sense of purpose. Whether its organizing voter registration drives or simply having conversations with neighbors, the Tennessee delegates are determined to turn the inspiration from the convention into tangible results at the ballot box.
Ferreira emphasized the importance of influencing not only Democratic voters but Republican voters as well. Healthy and informative conversations could be the difference between someone voting for a Democratic instead of a Republican.
“I know that it could be a touchy subject because people don’t want to leave their party and they don’t want to feel like they are giving up on something that they’ve known for so long,” she said. “But when it has to do with your rights as a person it’s important to kind of leave what you’re typically used to so you can help yourself and others.”
Carter agrees.
“There’s too much that has been at stake over the years and too many people that our future is based on how we vote. This is a big deal, and I want it to be treated like a big deal,” said Carter.
As they return to their communities, the delegates carry with them the spirit of the convention—a reminder that change is possible, even in the most challenging environments. With a clear vision and a collective commitment to action, Tennessee’s Democratic delegates are ready to play their part in shaping the future of their state and their country.
“Let’s come together as a community and make this work,” said Carter.
