Celebrities at the Democratic Convention’s Star-Studded Roll Call

The Democratic National Convention turned what is typically the dryest part of the evening – the roll call – into a lively celebration on Thursday, complete with energetic music and several celebrity appearances.

Although the Democratic Party had already held a virtual vote on August 6, officially selecting Kamala Harris as their nominee, they conducted a “celebratory” roll call vote to reaffirm her nomination. Each state called out the number of delegates who had cast their votes for Harris, often with the help of prominent residents and natives.

The evening wasn’t short on star power, featuring musical performances by Patti LaBelle and Common, and speeches from notable figures such as Barack and Michelle Obama.

Director Spike Lee, known for films such as “Do the Right Thing” and “Malcolm X,” joined New York Democrats to deliver the state’s 298 votes to Harris. Lee has long been an iconic figure of New York, regularly seen courtside at Knicks games and having created a short film titled “New York New York” as an homage to the city. Although he didn’t speak, he joined Gov. Kathy Hochul and Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand in chants of “New York.”

Actor Sean Astin, best known for his role in “Rudy,” cast Indiana’s 86 delegates for Harris and Walz. “I want what’s best for Indiana and that means electing Kamala Harris, the first woman president of the United States of America,” Astin said, emphasizing his support for Harris.

Wendell Pierce, known for his work in “The Wire,” joined the Louisiana delegation to express his personal endorsement of Harris and announce the state’s 47 votes for her. “I’m a proud son of Louisiana and Louisiana is about family, and I’m surrounded by my family of the delegates of Louisiana,” Pierce stated, showcasing his longstanding support for Democratic candidates.

Atlanta-born rapper Lil Jon fired up the crowd with a spirited performance of “Turn Down for What” before Georgia delivered 123 votes for Harris. “We are here tonight to officially nominate Kamala Harris,” he said, before breaking into song. He later adapted lines from “Get Low” to mention vice presidential pick Tim Walz, demonstrating his enthusiasm for the ticket.

Eva Longoria, a native of Corpus Christi, Texas, made a brief speech on behalf of Texas delegates before handing the microphone over to Cecile Richards, former president of Planned Parenthood. An instrumental version of Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ’Em” played as Texas announced its 263 votes for Harris. Longoria, an outspoken support of reproductive rights, also produced the 2018 documentary “Reversing Roe,” which explores abortion rights and access in America.

Source: Associated Press