President Joe Biden cemented the Democratic Party's elevation of Kamala Harris to lead the fight for the White House against Republican Donald Trump with a convention speech on Monday that praised his vice president as the best hope for preserving American democracy.

In a momentous speech delivered on the first night of the Democratic National Convention, President Joe Biden urged the American people to elect Vice President Kamala Harris as the next president, emphasizing the importance of protecting and preserving democracy. The address came just one month after Biden made the historic decision to withdraw from the presidential race, a choice that stunned the nation and shifted the focus of the Democratic Party towards Harris.

Vice President Kamala Harris delivered surprise remarks at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on Monday night and praised President Biden, calling him "incredible" and saying "we are forever grateful" to him.

"It is so good to be with everyone this evening in this hall and everyone at home," Harris told the crowd at the United Center on the convention's opening night.

"This is going to be a great week. And I want to kick us off by celebrating our incredible president, Joe Biden, who will be speaking later tonight. Joe, thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to our nation and for all you will continue to do. We are forever grateful to you. Thank you. Joe."

Biden's decision to step aside was made after weeks of speculation about his ability to campaign effectively, particularly following a disappointing debate performance against Donald Trump. His withdrawal opened the door for Harris, who now faces Trump in what promises to be a fiercely contested election.

The convention's opening night was designed to provide Biden with a dignified exit, acknowledging his contributions while passing the torch to Harris. The president's speech was delivered with clarity and energy, reminiscent of the Biden who triumphed in the 2020 election. His defense of his record, his support for Harris, and his sharp critique of Trump underscored the stakes of the upcoming election.

As the Democratic National Convention continues, all eyes are now on Kamala Harris, who will take the stage in the coming days, backed by the endorsements of influential figures such as former President Barack Obama and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. The final 76 days of the presidential campaign will be a critical period as Harris seeks to build on Biden's legacy and lead the nation toward a future that he passionately described as filled with promise and hope.