Former Ohio Gov. John Kasich will speak at Democratic National Convention

Sarah Brookbank/Cincinnati Enquirer

Tuesday Aug 11, 2020 at 11:24 AM

Former Ohio Gov. John Kasich, a Republican and frequent Trump critic, has confirmed that he will speak at the Democratic National Convention next week.

The Associated Press reported Kasich is among a handful of high-profile Republicans likely to become more active in supporting Biden in the fall. Kasich was a 2016 Republican candidate for president.

“I will be speaking at the #DNC Convention because I believe that America needs to go in a different direction,” Kasich said in a tweet. “I’ve searched my conscience and I believe the best way forward is for change – to bring unity where there has been division. And to bring about a healing in America.”

Presumptive nominee Joe Biden announced he would not be traveling to the host town of Milwaukee due to coronavirus risks, according to USA TODAY.

Instead, Biden will accept the presidential nomination and attend the convention from Delaware. Other speakers will attend virtually, as well.

Kasich will speak Monday, along with Sen. Bernie Sanders, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Sen. Amy Klobuchar and former First Lady Michelle Obama, according to the DNC website.

Monday’s theme is “We the People.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic continues its rampage, tens of millions of people are out of work, and America is confronting the racial injustice that has marginalized too many people. Throughout our history, when we stand united, we can overcome anything,” the DNC said. “On Monday, we’ll hear from the many Americans who are rising up to take on these three crises, unite our country, and join Joe Biden in rebuilding the country and moving it forward”

The Democratic National Convention will take place Aug. 17 to 20, 2020, and can be watched via live stream at demconvention.com. Convention programming will air from 9 to 11 p.m. Eastern.

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