The Democratic National Convention is next week, and people will hear from several prominent figures — but those tuning in will only hear 60 seconds of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).
Ocasio-Cortez was given one minute for her pre-recorded message to air at the convention, which will be held on August 17-20.
The reports on this drew reactions on social media:
I realize there are limitations with doing this virtually, but this is absurd. AOC has done some of the most effective comms work of any Democrat in the country. 60 seconds is ridiculous. https://t.co/hsMeMVD5io
— Charlotte Clymer 🇺🇦 (@cmclymer) August 13, 2020
However, Ocasio-Cortez offered a different response.
She quoted Dr. Benjamin E. Mays — a minister and civil rights leader — in her response. It is a quote that was recited by late Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), according to Ocasio-Cortez.
The quote reads:
“I only have a minute. Sixty seconds in it. Forced upon me, I did not choose it, But I know that I must use it. Give account if I abuse it. Suffer, if I lose it. Only a tiny little minute, But eternity is in it.”
“I only have a minute.
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) August 12, 2020
Sixty seconds in it.
Forced upon me, I did not choose it,
But I know that I must use it.
Give account if I abuse it.
Suffer, if I lose it.
Only a tiny little minute,
But eternity is in it.”
– Dr. Benjamin E. Mays
(and recited by Elijah Cummings) 💜 https://t.co/ul9CE7NriV
Joe Biden will accept the nomination at the Democratic National Convention next week. This comes after his highly anticipated running mate announcement this week where he chose Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.). She will also address the convention.
The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) released the list of speakers who will headline the convention, including well-known names such as former First Lady Michelle Obama, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), former President Barack Obama, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.