Gov. Gavin Newsom conducted a symbolic roll call Tuesday night at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago to deliver California's delegate votes to Vice President Kamala Harris, who has won the Democratic presidential nomination.

Surrounded by camera crews, reporters, delegates and politicians at the convention, the governor described Harris as a “star” who he has had the privilege of watching for more than two decades as she fights for crime, racial, economic and social justice.

“As attorney general of California, a U.S. senator and vice president of the United States, I've seen that star shine even brighter,” Newsom said.

“Kamala Harris has always done the right thing – she's a champion for voting rights, civil rights, LGBTQ rights, and the rights of women and girls. So Democrats and Independents, now is the time for us to do the right thing – and that's to elect Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States of America.”

A friend, political ally and sometime rival, Harris' campaign chose the Democratic governor to deliver California's 482 delegate votes at the end of the ceremonial roll call. Harris and Lt. Gov. Tim Walz held a campaign rally in Milwaukee and did not attend the convention.

The brief but spirited moment marked Newsom's only public address during four days of political events that saw Democrats come together to praise President Joe Biden as the party's past and Harris as its future.

Newsom, Mr Biden's top surrogate, assumed the role of Harris's advocate at the event after he praised the vice president. The governor gave television interviews before and after the roll call at the request of Ms Harris' campaign.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager Dove (D-Los Angeles) said it makes sense for both politicians.

“It shows they understand that the Democratic Party is more than one person,” Kamlager-Dove said. “It's about this idea, this energy and the values ​​of the party. He's been a great surrogate for Biden, so it's only natural that he would pass the baton, the delegates, the numbers that will carry her to victory to Kamala Harris.”

The governor, who has difficulty giving formal speeches due to dyslexia, did not speak, joining dozens of other notable figures who have given or are scheduled to give formal speeches in Chicago, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former President Barack Obama, former first lady Michelle Obama and Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr.

Aides to Newsom said the governor had been invited to speak on the first day of the convention but decided to take his children to a California school information session on Monday morning before flying to Chicago. Newsom arrived at the convention just before Biden spoke late Monday night.

As Newsom left the chamber after Biden's speech Monday night, he reflected on the speech.

“This is an emotional speech because it's probably the last big speech he's going to give at this stage,” Newsom said. “So it's a weighty evening in some ways. It's an optimistic view of the future, but it's also a reflection of a great history and a great character.”

On his way from the interview to the chamber on Tuesday, Newsom said Harris has an opportunity to “paint a compelling picture” of an inclusive future in her convention speech this week, building on testimony of Biden's past record.

Aides to Governor Newsom said the governor continues to “very actively support Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz at the convention and throughout this week.”