A Morganton resident and Democratic National Convention delegate, Grayson Barnett, eagerly anticipates Vice President Kamala Harris' acceptance speech on Aug. 22 in Chicago. Barnett, representing North Carolina as one of 168 delegates, is the founder of Express Lane Strategies, a public relations firm. He emphasizes the Democrats' role as the party of the working class and the importance of protecting working-class interests. Barnett finds appeal in Harris' running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Delegates like Barnett cover their own expenses to attend the convention. 

The elevation of Vice President Kamala Harris to the top of the Democratic ticket has generated an outpouring of excitement and engagement in Burke County, as indicated by Party Chairwoman Gena Singleton. The possibility of N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper being Harris' running mate has further fueled optimism among local Democratic leaders, with plans for a "Harris for President" office already underway. While some express enthusiastic support for Harris and Cooper, others highlight the importance of reaching out to young voters and addressing key issues like women's rights. As preparations for the Democratic National Convention take shape, the focus remains on presenting Harris' qualifications and energizing the campaign for the upcoming election.