With two nights of the DNC in the rear-view window, the race is certainly gaining momentum. It's plain that the youth, energy, and optimism of Kamala Harris is contagious. There have been plenty of digs at TFG, but it's also been a lot of uplifting and hopeful rhetoric.

Monday, we were treated to a couple of First Ladies: Jill Biden and Hillary Clinton. Secretary Clinton got a rousing ovation before launching into her prepared remarks. She spoke about her experiences and the cracks she made in the glass ceiling. She, and all those who came before her, whipped the crowd into a joyful celebration.

And then came President Biden...

As effective as he is behind the Resolute Desk, he just doesn't have the same panache as the other speakers. He started out with a full-throated almost angry yell for several minutes, which quieted the attendees right down. He finally got into his cadence of soft, then loud, and back again. He went over the impressively long list of accomplishments his administration had in its short 4 years in a speech that seemed to last forever.

He also "glitched" several times, which was discomforting to watch. It was a reminder that, yes - he still fights his stutter every day, and yes - he's old. Every day that passes since he removed himself from consideration for reelection, I am more and more convinced that it was not only the right thing to do, but the necessary thing to do.

The main event for day 2 was the ceremonial casting of the delegates' votes. There was a DJ on stage while this was happening, and - whenever possible - he played music that was from an artist born in that state. As is tradition, Minnesota and California went last (being the home states of Tim Walz and Kamala Harris).

Then came the speakers. This included a list of Democratic power players, like Chuck Schumer, Tammy Duckworth, and Bernie Sanders. Also included was the republican mayor of Mesa, AZ John Giles. He spoke about moderate Republicans like him who no longer have a party due to the MAGAts, and would rather vote for a democrat than the Orange Shitgibbon.

The Second Gentleman (soon to be the First Gentleman) Doug Emhoff spoke of his history and how it led to marriage to Veep Harris. He told about how he knew things were okay when his kids started referring to her as "Mamala".

The night was brought to a big finish with dueling speeches by Michelle Obama and former President Obama. Despite being known for his oratory and gift of gab, it was his wife who brought the house down.

Throughout both evenings, it's pretty clear what the campaign will focus on: Abortion (and women's healthcare in general, including IVF), LBGTQ+ rights, taxes and tariffs, empathy, hope and inclusion... not fear and loathing.

It's a good message that should resonate well with middle-of-the-road voters who are tired of the selfish lying, fear, and thirst for vengeance coming from the Republicans.