On Tuesday night, Jack Schlossberg took the podium at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago to address both his fellow delegates and the nation, urging Americans to vote for Vice President Kamala Harris this November. Schlossberg, John F. Kennedy’s grandson, followed in the footsteps of his mother, Ambassador Caroline Kennedy, and great-uncle, the late Senator Ted Kennedy, who have honored the late President Kennedy on the DNC stage in years past.

Schlossberg himself is no stranger to the DNC; 2024’s iteration marks the fifth he has attended, and in 2020 he delivered a (virtual) joint address with his mother. Yet until this year he had never before served as a delegate (representing the state of New York), and Tuesday marked his first time addressing the convention alone.

The Speech

Here, read the full text of Jack Schlossberg’s speech at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

Hi, I’m Jack Schlossberg.

President John F. Kennedy is my grandfather, and he’s my hero. JFK was the youngest person ever elected president, and the first Catholic. He sent a man to the moon, fought for civil rights, and navigated the Cuban Missile Crisis peacefully.Most of all, he inspired a new generation to ask what they could do for our country.

Tonight, JFK’s call to action is ours to answer, because once again the torch has been passed to a new generation—to a leader who shares my grandfather’s energy, vision, and optimism for America. That leader is Vice President Kamala Harris.

Like President Kennedy, Vice President Harris has dedicated her life to public service. She believes in America like my grandfather did — that we do things not because they are easy, but because they are hard. As president she will fight for working families. She will expand investments in clean energy so that my generation will have clean air and good jobs. She will defend our freedoms: the freedom for women, anywhere in America, to make their own healthcare choices. The freedom to be safe from gun violence. The freedom to vote easily and without fear. The choice is ours to make, and history is watching to see what we will do. Now, let’s elect Kamala Harris the next president of the United States.

Jack Schlossberg's Political Journey

Jack Schlossberg’s rise in the political arena has been a gradual one, beginning with a stint as a Senate page and intern for former Secretary of State John Kerry. He has also served as a political columnist for Vogue, bringing his own unique voice and perspective to the world of political discourse. Schlossberg's public appearances have often focused on the legacy of his grandfather and his support for progressive causes. His recent Instagram post advocating for Joe Biden and critiquing his cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., demonstrated his willingness to speak out against those he considers to be undermining democratic ideals.

A Legacy of Public Service

The Kennedy family has long been synonymous with public service and political activism. Schlossberg’s participation in the Democratic National Convention, following in the footsteps of his mother and other family members, underscores this legacy. His speech at the DNC further solidifies his commitment to the principles of progressive politics, highlighting his strong advocacy for Vice President Harris and his belief in the future of America.

Schlossberg’s public engagements, combined with his professional endeavors, have established him as a voice to be reckoned with in the political landscape. His commitment to public service, his critical analysis of contemporary political issues, and his unique perspective as a member of the Kennedy dynasty have earned him a place as a rising star in the Democratic Party. Whether or not he chooses to run for office remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Jack Schlossberg is a force to be reckoned with.

A New Generation

Jack Schlossberg is part of a new generation of leaders who are actively engaging in political discourse and challenging the status quo. He embodies the spirit of his grandfather, embracing the challenges and opportunities of the future. He believes in the power of public service and the importance of fighting for the ideals of democracy. As he continues to forge his own path, Schlossberg is a reminder that the legacy of public service can be passed down through generations, inspiring a new generation to lead with courage, compassion, and a commitment to the future.