Hillary Clinton draws powerful parallels between 2024 and 2016 at Democratic National Convention

While reflecting on 2016’s loss, many recognized how Clinton’s historic nomination paved the way for Monday’s hope.

Hillary Clinton made a notable return to the Democratic National Convention on Monday, eight years after her own presidential nomination, to honor Vice President Kamala Harris' candidacy and highlight the historical significance shared by Harris, Clinton, and their families.

“We’re writing a new chapter in America’s story,” Clinton declared, receiving a warm reception for one of the most powerful speeches of her political career.

Her appearance was framed by two songs from the 2016 campaign trail, Sara Bareilles’ “Brave” and Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song,” which added an emotional layer for former campaign staffers already deeply moved by the evening.

While many reflected on the 2016 loss, they also acknowledged how Clinton’s historic nomination set the stage for the energy and hope experienced on Monday.

Sarah Galvez, who managed digital influencer outreach for Clinton’s 2016 campaign and is now volunteering at the convention, admitted she was brought to tears by Clinton’s speech. “But it feels really good to be back here again and to be energized about another female candidate potentially breaking the glass ceiling. I know the secretary echoed that in her speech tonight but really — we are so close. I’m just more determined than ever to make that happen,” Galvez said.

Gabrielle Rizza, who worked on Clinton’s campaign in South Carolina and Pennsylvania and attended the 2016 convention, wore an old Hillary 2016 shirt to the event to “reclaim” the significance of the merchandise. “What I see is Hillary Clinton trailblazing, setting the stage for tonight and really throwing her support behind a woman nominee that I genuinely believe will win the presidency,” said Rizza, who also worked on digital campaigns for Harris’ first presidential run.

During her presidential bid, Clinton spoke of the “highest, hardest glass ceiling.” On Monday, she urged the nation to support Harris in breaking that barrier. “When a barrier falls for one of us, it clears the way for all of us,” Clinton told the cheering crowd at the United Center.”

Acknowledging the ongoing challenges for female candidates, particularly women of color, Rizza expressed confidence that Harris is “the right person for this moment.” She praised the continued fight for progress and believed Harris’s current momentum is the result of years of dedicated organizing.

Galvez was especially moved by Clinton’s emphasis on the women who paved the way for future generations, reflecting on the long legacy of women’s progress.