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DNC 2024 Day 4 live updates: Harris says she will 'fight for America's future'

Harris set her agenda in a rousing speech at the DNC.

ByAlexandra Hutzler, Ivan Pereira, Meredith Deliso, Tal Axelrod, and Brittany Gaddy
Last Updated: August 22, 2024, 9:58 PM EDT

The moment that millions around the country have been waiting for took place Thursday at the Democratic National Convention as Vice President Kamala Harris accepted the nomination for the presidency.

Harris took the stage to a roaring standing ovation and soon set her agenda in a rousing speech.

Whether it was immigration, reproductive rights or foreign security, the vice president showcased a sharp contrast in policies to former President Donald Trump.

Harris's speech was preceded by a who's who of leaders from both sides of the aisle who all made the case that she is the best person to be the nation's leader.

Photos: 2024 Democratic National Convention

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Democratic presidential nominee and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris takes the stage on Day 4 of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois, Aug. 22, 2024.
Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

    Latest headlines:

    Here's how the news is developing:
    9:50 PM EDT

    Mark Kelly touts Harris' strength on foreign security

    Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly joked that it was tough to follow-up his wife Gabrielle Giffords and P!nk, but zeroed in on the topic of foreign security.

    Kelly, who was in consideration for the vice president spot on the Democratic ticket, warned of Trump's support of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his lack of support for America's allies.

    Sen. Mark Kelly speaks on stage on Day 4 of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center, Aug. 22, 2024 in Chicago.
    Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

    "Vice President Harris has always championed America's support for NATO, for Ukraine and for the Ukrainian people," he contended.

    Kelly, a retired astronaut and Navy pilot, also chastised Trump for his treatment of service members.

    "Trump thinks that Americans who have made the ultimate sacrifice are suckers and losers. If we fall for that again and make him the commander in chief, the only suckers would be us," he said.

    The retired astronaut and junior U.S. senator from Arizona spoke during the final day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
    The retired astronaut and junior U.S. senator from Arizona spoke during the final day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

    ByTia Yang
    9:48 PM EDT

    Most Americans approve stricter gun laws

    The emotional segment featuring gun violence survivors and family members could resonate with voters. A majority, 56 percent according to the latest Gallup polling from last year, favor stricter gun control laws. The legislation Biden signed in 2022 — which expanded background checks and red flag laws — was also popular, with 64 percent saying they approved of it. But 78 percent thought it would do little or nothing to stem gun violence, which mean many voters may think there's more room for legislation.

    — 538's Monica Potts

    9:45 PM EDT

    Security is next theme of the night

    In line with various speakers's emphasis on Harris as a would-be strong commander-in-chief, now the conversation is shifting toward security.

    A video just aired of a previous Harris speech on the need for a "strong America" to ensure global stability and democracy.

    Speaking now is retired Air Force general and NASA astronaut Mark Kelly. Up soon is former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta.

    9:44 PM EDT

    Republicans should 'forfeit' conventions: Meghan McCain

    Conservative political commentator Meghan McCain has some advice for Republicans while watching the DNC tonight.

    "Maybe republicans just shouldn’t have conventions… just forfeit because I DO NOT KNOW HOW YOU CAN COMPETE WITH THIS!" she tweeted.

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