• by Philip Rosenstein , Staff Writer, June 22, 2016

The Clinton campaign and the Democratic Party are full steam ahead as they approach the Democratic convention, beginning July 25, and the crucial post-convention stretch.

The short-term focus is on the Philadelphia convention and generating more buzz and enthusiasm around the Clinton campaign, which hasn't been as charged as the campaign would like.

Reports have arisen that Lin-Manuel Miranda, the writer and star of the Tony-winning musical "Hamilton," has been contacted by Democratic officials to perform at the convention. His presence would add to the TV interest around the convention and rouse that all important energy and buzz.

Other celebrities, like Katy Perry, Christina Aguilera and Demi Lovato, have been deeply supportive of the Clinton campaign throughout the primary cycle. While they may not perform at the convention, there will be ample opportunity to rally Clinton supporters.

Engaging a younger and diverse Democratic electorate, which Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders did exceptionally well, will be a central task moving forward, especially as calls for cohesion within the party become louder.

Surrogates and calls for donations are also moving into high gear.

Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren sent out an email soliciting donations to Clinton supporters yesterday with the subject: “I’m with her. I need you to be, too.” Warren took her time before endorsing Hillary Clinton, as many of her progressive policies fit with the Sanders camp. Now, she’s “with her” and will probably prove to be a deeply important representative of the Clinton-Democrat cause.

The Clinton campaign is starting in earnest with a bid to attract the millions of progressive Sanders supporters who may not be as enthused by their presumptive nominee. With Elizabeth Warren in her corner, she surely gets a boost among that group.

Sanders, however, will most likely be the politician behind whom the progressive tide will follow. He is expected to deliver a keynote speech at the Democratic convention — if he concedes before July 25.

The juxtaposition between the Clinton and Trump campaigns are stark. The race to the White House will pit two widely differing personas against one another on the national stage, an election which will make its mark on the history books.