CHICAGO — First Lady Jill Biden took the stage alone in a dazzling, steel blue Ralph Lauren dress as “Praise You” by Fatboy Slim played, though the sound was drowned out by the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd at the United Center. Attendees waved green “JILL” signs, marking what was likely not her final campaign speech, but rather the beginning of a long farewell as she addressed the Democratic National Convention for the last time in her role as First Lady. Her speech reflected her nearly four years in office, emphasizing her support for President Biden and the candidate she hopes will follow him.
Speaking for under two minutes, Jill reminisced about her nearly 50-year marriage to Joe Biden, sharing anecdotes that highlighted his determination and empathy, both personally and publicly. She recounted how he would comfort grieving supporters and read bedtime stories to their children, noting that his accomplishments were driven by a purpose greater than himself. She also reflected on the moment he chose not to seek reelection.
The First Lady paid tribute to Vice President Kamala Harris, sharing memories of her late son Beau’s admiration for Harris, emphasizing her courage and leadership.
Jill Biden arrived in Chicago on Monday afternoon in high spirits, as reported by an aide. The city holds significant memories for the couple, including the celebration of Barack Obama and Joe Biden’s 2008 election victory, where Jill joined them onstage. Four years later, they returned for Obama’s farewell address, reinforcing the familial bond they share.
Throughout their marriage, Jill has often recalled her hesitations about becoming a public figure, initially turning down Joe’s marriage proposal multiple times due to the scrutiny that accompanied it. Despite these concerns, she has forged a successful career, teaching for over 40 years, even while serving as Second and First Lady.
Her recent weeks were a blend of her public and personal life. In June, she juggled official duties in Paris and support for her son Hunter, who faced legal troubles. After a guilty verdict concerning Hunter, she shifted back to campaign mode, defending her husband amid calls for him to withdraw from the race.
“This election is most certainly not about age,” she asserted at a mid-June event. She emphasized Joe’s resilience, stating, “When he gets knocked down, Joe gets back up.”
Jill has always regarded her role as First Lady as a commitment to service. Her initiatives, including the Biden Cancer Moonshot, honor her deceased son Beau and focus on military families and educational opportunities for students. As she shifts her focus back to these projects in the coming months, she also plans to campaign for Democrats, albeit with less intensity than she would have while her husband was a candidate.
President Biden expressed his deep admiration for Jill during his remarks, joking about their love and the effect she still has on him.
In another timeline, the Bidens would have had a week packed with activities in Chicago, culminating with the nominee’s address later in the week. However, following the president’s speech, they would return to Air Force One for a vacation on California’s Central Coast.