Louisiana Democratic Party Chair Endorses Harris
47 days ago
Randal Gaines, the chair of the Louisiana Democratic Party, thanked President Joe Biden for “his remarkable leadership” after the president withdrew from the 2024 race.
“Joe Biden’s choice to step aside and endorse Kamala Harris isn’t just a leadership change; it’s a bold statement of our party’s future direction,” Mr. Gaines wrote in a statement posted to X.
The chair said the Louisiana Democratic Party would “honor Joe Biden’s legacy, and the decision that he has made today, by throwing our full support behind her in beating Donald Trump again this November.”
“We will reunite, realign, and refocus as a party and continue to advance forward, stronger and more determined than ever,” Mr. Gaines said.
Harris Campaign Gets Big Surge in Fundraising
47 days ago
ActBlue, a political action committee and fundraising platform, announced that Vice President Kamala Harris's new presidential campaign has raised $46.7 million through grassroots supporters as of 9 p.m. ET.
“This has been the biggest fundraising day of the 2024 cycle. Small-dollar donors are fired up and ready to take on this election,” ActBlue stated on X.
North and South Carolina Delegates Endorse Harris
47 days ago
South Carolina’s delegates to the Democratic National Convention met Sunday night and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the new presidential nominee.
“South Carolina was the First in the Nation Democratic Presidential Primary on Feb. 3, 2024, where 96 percent of voters selected President Biden,” the delegation wrote on X.
South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Chistale Spain, who also chairs the state’s delegation, said she appreciates the president’s “decades of service to the nation” in a statement.
“We must move forward in unity for the sake of democracy; by selecting President Biden in February, South Carolina Democrats also selected the Vice President for her ability to lead. Vice President Harris has been fully vetted, and she has earned our unwavering support,” Ms. Spain said.
Anderson Clayton, chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, said all 168 of North Carolina’s delegates had also endorsed Ms. Harris on Sunday in a post on X.
Ms. Clayton said the delegates “voted unanimously” on Sunday to endorse and “put our party’s full support behind the nomination” of Ms. Harris.
“I’m proud of our party,” Ms. Clayton said.
Congressman Clyburn Endorses Harris
47 days ago
Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.), a close ally of President Joe Biden who helped him secure the presidential nomination in 2020, has backed Kamala Harris.
“I do think she's the best candidate, best-prepared candidate at this particular juncture,” Mr. Clyburn told CNN.
“She is going to win this race and she is going to win with massive support.”
Mr. Clyburn also shared his preference for Ms. Harris' running mate. He said he liked Govs. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and Roy Cooper of North Carolina.
"We’ve got a great crop of governors," he said.
Mr. Clyburn stated that any individual wishing to run for president must adhere to the rules of the convention. Specifically, he said the person needs to obtain 300 signatures from delegates, ensuring that no more than 50 signatures come from any single state, among the 4,000 delegates.
Sen. Warren Endorses Harris
47 days ago
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), who ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020 and lost to Joe Biden, has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy.
“She has been vice president for three and a half years now. She's been on the front lines. She is now battle-tested and ready to go,” Ms. Warren told CNN.
When asked whether Ms. Harris is ready for the challenge, given that her 2020 campaign did not make it very far, Ms. Warren expressed confidence in her abilities.
“I don't have any doubts about Kamala Harris's ability to win. And more importantly, I don't have any doubts about Kamala Harris's abilities to govern as president of our United States of America,” Ms. Warren said.
David Axelrod Predicts Harris Will Clinch Nomination
47 days ago
David Axelrod, former senior advisor to former President Barack Obama and chief strategist for his campaigns, posted to X after Vice President Kamala Harris accepted President Joe Biden’s endorsement.
Ms. Harris’s “political shock-and-awe campaign over the past few hours since the president's announcement has been impressive,” Mr. Axelrod noted.
“A lot of big dominos have fallen, including almost all of the major, potential contenders who might have challenged her.
“Hard to see any other outcome here than her nomination,” he said.
Mr. Axelrod was one of the first Democrats to call for President Biden to step down as the presidential nominee after the June 27 debate with former President Donald Trump.
AOC Endorses Harris as Presidential Nominee
47 days ago
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the new party nominee in a post on X.
“Kamala Harris will be the next President of the United States. I pledge my full support to ensure her victory in November,” the lawmaker said.
“Now more than ever, it is crucial that our party and country swiftly unite to defeat Donald Trump and the threat to American democracy.”
Ms. Ocasio-Cortez was one of many Democratic lawmakers who urged President Biden to stay in the race, suggesting there could be legal concerns over ballot access if the nominee was changed this close to the election.
World Leaders React to Biden Stepping Down as Candidate
47 days ago
President Joe Biden’s decision on Sunday to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race drew reactions from many prominent foreign leaders.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau thanked President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden in a statement.
“I’ve known President Biden for years. He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country. As President, he is a partner to Canadians—and a true friend,” he said.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz credited President Biden with making NATO “strong” in a post on X, and said his decision to step down “deserves respect.”
“Joe Biden has achieved a lot: for his country, for Europe, for the world. Thanks to him, transatlantic cooperation is close, NATO is strong and the USA is a good and reliable partner for us,” the chancellor said.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he respects President Biden’s decision and looks “forward to us working together during the remainder of his presidency.”
“I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, President Biden will have made his decision based on what he believes is in the best interests of the American people,” he said in a statement.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog thanked President Biden “for his friendship and steadfast support for the Israeli people over his decades long career,” in a statement, while Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant thanked the president for “unwavering support of Israel over the years.”
“Your steadfast backing, especially during the war, has been invaluable. We are grateful for your leadership and friendship,” Mr. Gallant said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his country is “grateful to President Biden for his unwavering support for Ukraine's fight for freedom, which, along with strong bipartisan support in the United States, has been and continues to be critical” in a post on X.
“Many strong decisions have been made in recent years and they will be remembered as bold steps taken by President Biden in response to challenging times.
“And we respect today's tough but strong decision,” Mr. Zelenskyy added.
Gov. Newsom Endorses Harris
47 days ago
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, long seen as a potential replacement for President Joe Biden should he drop out, has announced he’s backing Vice President Kamala Harris for the top spot on the Democratic ticket.
In a post on X, Mr. Newsom described Ms. Harris as “Tough. Fearless. Tenacious.”
“With our democracy at stake and our future on the line, no one is better to prosecute the case against Donald Trump's dark vision and guide our country in a healthier direction than America’s Vice President, @KamalaHarris,” Mr. Newsom said.
He’s the second person seen as a presidential contender who’s announced he’s backing Ms. Harris, a sign the party is coalescing around Ms. Harris.
In an earlier post to X, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, also seen as a potential contender, endorsed Ms. Harris as well.
Harris's New Campaign Raises More Than $27.5 Million
47 days ago
ActBlue, a political action committee and fundraising platform, announced that Vice President Kamala Harris' new presidential campaign has raised more than $27.5 million since President Joe Biden announced that he stepped aside and endorsed Ms. Harris for the party’s candidacy.
“Small-dollar donors raised over $27.5 million on ActBlue in the first 5 hours of Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign,” the platform said on X.
“Grassroots supporters are energized and excited to support her as the Democratic nominee.”
Tennessee Delegation Backs Harris
47 days ago
Tennessee’s 70 delegates to the Democratic National Convention are backing Vice President Kamala Harris to take over the top of the ticket.
They’re the first state delegation to officially announce an endorsement for the current vice president.
“During a meeting today, the Tennessee Delegation to the 2024 Democratic National Convention voted to support
@KamalaHarris for President of the United States,” the Tennessee delegation announced in a brief post on X.
The endorsement was made at the same time many Democrats threw their support behind Ms. Harris’s bid on Sunday.
Cabinet Members Praise Biden
47 days ago
Following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he’s leaving the 2024 presidential race, several members of his cabinet were quick to commend the commander-in-chief.
“It has been—and remains—the honor of my life to work for @POTUS for the past twenty-two years. He has restored U.S. leadership around the world and delivered historic accomplishments as President,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrote in a statement. “I look forward to building on that record with him over the next six months.”
Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg called President Biden “among the best and most consequential presidents in American history.”
“I am so proud to serve under his leadership, and thankful for his unwavering focus on what is best for our country.”
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen touted certain economic indicators achieved under President Biden.
“I’m proud of the work the Biden-Harris Administration has done over 3.5 years on behalf of the American people to create 15 million new jobs, lower costs and deliver strong economic growth,” she wrote. “I look forward to continuing that work to help American families and businesses get ahead.”
U.N. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called President Biden “an incredible President.”
“Thanks to his leadership, America is safer, more prosperous, and more respected around the world. I am so proud to serve in his cabinet today and everyday. And the work continues!”
RNC's Whatley: ‘Our Plan Is Going to Stay the Same’
47 days ago
Republican National Committee chairman Mike Whatley said during an appearance on Fox News that President Joe Biden’s departure, while it may shake up the race, won’t affect Republicans’ core strategy in 2024.
“Look, I think our plan is going to stay the same,” Mr. Whatley said.
As many Democrats have begun to coalesce around Vice President Kamala Harris, Mr. Whatley said Republicans aren’t too nervous about taking on Ms. Harris as a potential nominee.
The approach, he said, remains centered around policy.
“I think that [Harris] as well as anybody else right now are going to have to answer for the failures of the Biden–Harris administration, and they're all going to double down on the same policies,” Mr. Whatley said.
Moving forward, he said, “we're going to go talk directly to the American people about our vision for making America great again, which really rests on making sure that we restore our southern border, we restore our economy, and we will restore our standing in the world.”
Trump Calls for Fox News to Host Next Presidential Debate
47 days ago
After President Biden pulled out of the presidential race on Sunday, former President Donald Trump said the next debate should be hosted by Fox News instead of ABC.
“Now that Joe has, not surprisingly, has [sic] quit the race, I think the debate … should be held on Fox News,” he said in a post on TruthSocial.
In criteria set by the Biden campaign in May for 2024 debates, the campaign pushed for networks that sponsored debates during the 2016 and 2020 election cycles. That eliminated Fox News and MSNBC.
Gov. Shapiro Endorses Harris
47 days ago
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, whose name had been thrown around as a potential contender, has given his backing to Vice President Kamala Harris’s bid for the presidential nomination.
“Kamala Harris is a patriot worthy of our support and she will continue the work of generations of Americans who came before us to perfect our union, protect our democracy, and advance real freedom,” Mr. Shapiro said in a statement. “She has served the country honorably as Vice President and she is ready to be President.”
Mr. Shapiro called for the Democratic Party to “quickly unite behind Vice President Harris and refocus on winning the presidency.”
Mr. Shapiro could still be a contender for the vice presidential nomination under Ms. Harris, should she win the presidential nomination.
Democrats React to Biden’s Departure From 2024 Race
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) speaks during the weekly Senate presser in the U.S. Capitol building on July 9, 2024. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)
Joseph Lord
Last Updated:
WASHINGTON—Democrats are reacting to President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of the 2024 race for the presidency, thanking the president for his service.
Some immediately endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, whom the president backed after announcing his decision to withdraw on July 21. Others did not mention Ms. Harris, suggesting support for an open nomination process.
“Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader but he’s a truly amazing human being,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) wrote in a post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. “His decision of course was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.
“Joe, today shows you are a true patriot and great American.”
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) wrote in a social media post, “God blessed America with Joe Biden’s greatness and goodness.”
In a separate statement, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) called President Biden “one of the most accomplished and consequential leaders in American history.”
“America is a better place today because President Joe Biden has led us with intellect, grace and dignity,” Mr. Jeffries said. “We are forever grateful.”
A number of Democrats have thrown their support behind Ms. Harris. The vice president announced her intention to “earn and win this nomination” not long after news of President Biden’s withdrawal.
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said in a joint statement, “We are honored to join the President in endorsing Vice President Harris and will do whatever we can to support her.
“Now is the time to support Kamala Harris and fight with everything we’ve got to elect her. America’s future depends on it.”
Among the vice president’s congressional supporters are Congressional Progressive Caucus Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.); Rep. Nanette D. Barragán (D-Calif.), chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus; Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.); and Sens. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.).
“I’m looking forward to working with my friend @KamalaHarris and a great ticket mate to keep Virginia blue so that we can continue to build on our progress,” Mr. Kaine wrote on X.
Ms. Jayapal said in a statement, “She will mobilize and energize our base to re-engage and ensure that we turn out every single voter across the country and deliver victory in November.”
Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.), one of President Biden’s staunchest allies in Congress and co-chair of his 2024 campaign, also endorsed Ms. Harris.
“One of President Biden’s first decisions as the nominee was to select a running mate that he believed possessed the values and vision necessary to continue this country’s pursuit toward a ’more perfect Union,'” he said in a statement. “I am proud to follow his lead in support of her candidacy.”
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro also threw his support behind Ms. Harris, writing on X, “I do everything I can to help elect [Ms. Harris] as the 47th President of the United States.”
Some prominent Democrats did not mention Ms. Harris in their statements responding to President Biden’s announcement.
Former President Barack Obama indicated support for an open nomination process.
“I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges,” he wrote in a lengthy statement.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore did not mention the vice president in their statements praising President Biden. There has been speculation about both governors as possible replacements for President Biden at the top of the ticket.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, also floated as a possible candidate, endorsed Ms. Harris later on July 21. Calling her tough, tenacious, and fearless, he said on social media that “no person is better able to prosecute” the case against former President Donald Trump than the vice president.
Republicans were critical both of the decision and the administration more broadly.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) portrayed it as a matter of party elites’ trying to override the will of the people in the Democratic primaries.
“Having invalidated the votes of more than 14 million Americans who selected Joe Biden to be the Democrat nominee for president, the self-proclaimed ‘party of democracy’ has proven exactly the opposite,” Mr. Johnson wrote in a statement on X.
He also called on President Biden to resign, saying his decision to drop out indicated that he is not fit to serve as president.
The call was repeated by House Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), who wrote, “He must immediately resign.”
Obama Praises Biden for Exiting Race
President Joe Biden (L) stands with former US President Barack Obama onstage during a campaign fundraiser at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 15, 2024. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)
Jack Phillips
Last Updated:
Former President Barack Obama praised President Joe Biden after he decided Sunday to suspend his reelection campaign.
In a lengthy statement, the 44th president described President Biden as “one of America’s most consequential presidents” and a “dear friend.” Going a step further, former President Obama said that his announcement Sunday to drop out shows “he’s a patriot of the highest order.”
“I also know Joe has never backed down from a fight. For him to look at the political landscape and decide that he should pass the torch to a new nominee is surely one of the toughest in his life,” former President Obama wrote. “But I know he wouldn’t make this decision unless he believed it was right for America.”
The announcement is a “testament to Joe Biden’s love of country” and a “historic example” of “putting the interests of the American people ahead of his own that future generations of leaders will do well to follow,” the former president added.
“Sixteen years ago, when I began my search for a vice president, I knew about Joe’s remarkable career in public service,” he also said, referring to President Biden’s tenure as his vice president. “But what I came to admire even more was his character—his deep empathy and hard-earned resilience; his fundamental decency and belief that everyone counts.”
In a follow-up statement on Sunday, President Biden said he is supporting Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for president. Former President Bill Clinton and his wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, also endorsed Ms. Harris.
But former President Obama, who retains considerable influence in the Democratic Party, made no mention of the vice president. He did not publicly endorse anyone to become his party’s nominee in his statement.
Instead, he predicted that an “outstanding nominee” for president will emerge in the coming days and that he has “confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process” to find that person.
“I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August. And I expect that every single one of us are prepared to carry that message of hope and progress forward into November and beyond,” former President Obama said.
Democratic National Convention chairman Jamie Harrison said in a statement that in the near future, “the Party will undertake a transparent and orderly process to move forward as a united Democratic Party with a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump in November.”
“This process will be governed by established rules and procedures of the Party. Our delegates are prepared to take seriously their responsibility in swiftly delivering a candidate to the American people,” he said.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, both Democrats, also did not offer their endorsements for president, and neither did former longtime House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).
Clinton Endorsement
The Clintons, who released a statement originally through former President Clinton’s X account, praised President Biden’s policies and expressed strong support for Ms. Harris.“We are honored to join the President in endorsing Vice President Harris and will do whatever we can to support her,” the Clintons wrote in their joint statement.
They also warned about a possible second Trump administration, suggesting that a Democrat should be president to fill any potential U.S. Supreme Court vacancies.
A number of Democrats, including Sens. Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Mazie Hirono (D-Ill.) publicly backed Ms. Harris in statements on Sunday. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.), an influential House Democrat, also backed the vice president.
Former President Trump, meanwhile, told CNN on Sunday he believes Ms. Harris will be easier to defeat than President Biden in November’s election. Former President Trump and his campaign were also critical of the two incumbents on social media, while saying President Biden is unfit to continue serving as president
Former presidents George W. Bush, a Republican, and Jimmy Carter, a Democrat, had not publicly responded to President Biden’s announcement by Sunday evening.
Biden–Harris Campaign Changes Name
47 days ago
President Joe Biden’s presidential campaign has formally rebranded itself as Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign.
In a July 21 filing with the FEC, the campaign submitted a form under the name Harris for President, announcing Vice President Harris’s intention to seek the Oval Office.
The change was made just hours after President Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 race, immediately endorsing his vice president to take over the top of the ticket.
Several wings of the Democratic Party have begun to coalesce around Ms. Harris, though a candidate will not be formally nominated until August.
Vance Responds
47 days ago
Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), who accepted the Republican vice presidential nomination last week from former President Donald Trump, posted to X on Sunday after President Joe Biden stepped down as the Democratic nominee.
Mr. Vance tied Ms. Harris to President Biden’s policy agenda and indicated that she would bring much of the same if she wins the party nomination at the Democratic National Convention at the end of August.
“President Trump and I are ready to save America, whoever's at the top of the Democrat ticket. Bring it on,” he said.
The senator’s statement follows one released by the Trump campaign earlier this afternoon, which also sought to tie Ms. Harris to President Biden’s legacy.
VP Harris: 'My Intention Is to Earn and Win This Nomination'
47 days ago
Vice President Kamala Harris issued a statement on X soon after President Joe Biden announced that he dropped out of the 2024 presidential race. President Biden endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s nominee in the upcoming election.
“I am honored to have the President's endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination,” Ms. Harris said in a statement. “Over the past year, I have traveled across the country, talking with Americans about the clear choice in this momentous election. And that is what I will continue to do in the days and weeks ahead.
“I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party—and unite our nation—to defeat Donald Trump,” Ms. Harris added. "We have 107 days until Election Day. Together, we will fight. And together, we will win."
RFK Jr. Calls for Democrats to Hold 'Open' Nomination Process
47 days ago
After President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 race Sunday, independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called on the Democratic Party to hold an open nomination contest at the Democratic National Convention in August.
“I call on the Democratic Party to return to its traditional commitment to democracy and exemplify it with an open process,” Mr. Kennedy wrote in a post on X. “Instead of anointing a candidate hand-picked by DNC elites, the party should use neutral polling to identify the candidate who can best beat Donald Trump. The delegates should then select a nominee based on this information.
“If they had done this to begin with, I would not have had to leave the Democratic Party.”
It could be a sign that the candidate, who initially ran for the Democratic nomination, may throw his hat back into the ring should the convention be opened up. But, he said, that “DNC elites are about to rig the nominating process again."
President Biden, after announcing his withdrawal, immediately endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as presidential nominee.
"My intention is to earn and win this nomination," Vice President Harris said.
Several Democrats in the Senate, who tend to be more moderate than their House counterparts, have quickly publicly backed Ms. Harris's candidacy.
In the House, Congressional Progressive Caucus Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) also said she’s backing Ms. Harris.
Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks at the Nixon library in Yorba Linda, Calif., on June 12, 2024. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)
Rep. Nancy Pelosi Responds
47 days ago
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who currently serves in the House as speaker emerita, praised President Joe Biden following his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race.
“President Joe Biden is a patriotic American who has always put our country first. His legacy of vision, values and leadership make him one of the most consequential Presidents in American history,” Ms. Pelosi wrote in a post on X.
“With love and gratitude to President Biden for always believing in the promise of America and giving people the opportunity to reach their fulfillment,” she added.
“God blessed America with Joe Biden’s greatness and goodness.”
Biden Family Responds to President’s Withdrawal From 2024 Race
President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, grandaugher Naomi Biden and fiance Peter Neal walk to the White House from Marine One, in Washington, on June 20, 2022. (Pete Marovich/Getty Images)
Jack Phillips
Last Updated:
Members of President Joe Biden’s family said they are proud of him after he announced on Sunday he is dropping out of the 2024 presidential race.
The president issued a statement on X announcing that it is “in the best interest of my party and the country” to suspend his reelection campaign, with just a few months to go before the November general election.
His wife, First Lady Jill Biden, quote-tweeted his post, adding a heart emoji. She offered no other comment.
His granddaughter, Naomi Biden, praised the president as “the most effective president of our lifetime” in an X statement issued soon after his announcement.
“I’m nothing but proud today of my Pop, our President, Joe Biden, who has served our country with every bit of his soul and with unmatched distinction,” she wrote on the platform. “Not only has he been—and will continue to be—the most effective president of our lifetime, but he has likely already cemented himself as the most effective and impactful public servant in our nation’s history.”
She said that President Biden has “had a material impact on literally every single major issue that our country and world has faced for 50 years.”
President Biden’s brother, Frank Biden, told ABC News Sunday that the decision to withdraw “boils down” to his “overall health and vitality,” without elaborating.
The president’s son, Hunter Biden, who was convicted last month on felony gun charges, has not yet publicly released a statement about his father’s decision. The Epoch Times contacted a representative for the younger Biden for comment Sunday.
Aside from his family, former President Bill Clinton and former First Lady Hillary Clinton praised the president and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president. In another post, President Biden likewise endorsed Ms. Harris to succeed him as the Democratic Party’s nominee.
“We are honored to join the President in endorsing Vice President Harris and will do whatever we can to support her,” the Clintons wrote, adding, “Now is the time to support Kamala Harris and fight with everything we’ve got to elect her. America’s future depends on it.”
Former President Trump also reacted to the announcement that his rival was dropping out of the race. He encouraged voters cast their ballots for him in November to “remedy the damage” that was done, while criticizing the president’s record.
At the same time, several top Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), suggested that President Biden step down from office immediately.
Sunday’s announcement marks yet another seismic shift in the 2024 presidential race, coming just over a week after former President Trump survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania. The former president, during the Republican National Convention, accepted his party’s nomination on July 18.
President Biden made his announcement about a month before the start of the Democratic National Convention, which will be held between Aug. 19 and Aug. 22 in Chicago. During that event, Democratic Party delegates will officially nominate a candidate to run in November.
In his announcement, President Biden said that “it has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
His statement added that he will address the nation later this week about his decision.
DNC Seeks Candidate ‘Who Can Defeat’ Trump After Biden Drops Out
(Left) President Joe Biden speaks on his economic plan for the country in Raleigh, N.C., on Jan. 18, 2024. (Right) Former President Donald Trump arrives for a rally in Sioux Center, Iowa, on Jan. 5, 2024. (Eros Hoagland, Scott Olson/Getty Images)
Jack Phillips
Last Updated:
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) revealed its top priority after President Joe Biden announced Sunday he won’t seek reelection for president.
Democratic National Committee chairman Jaime Harrison said in a statement that Democrats will “undertake a transparent and orderly process to move forward as a united Democratic Party with a candidate who can defeat” former President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee for president, in the November election.
“This process will be governed by established rules and procedures of the party,” Mr. Harrison added. “Our delegates are prepared to take seriously their responsibility in swiftly delivering a candidate to the American people.”
His statement also said that “in short order, the American people will hear from the Democratic Party on next steps and the path forward for the nomination process.”
Unlike President Biden, Mr. Harrison did not endorse Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee.
President Biden has signaled that he wants to serve out the remainder of his term in office, which ends at 12 p.m. ET on Jan. 20, 2025.
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term,” he wrote in a letter posted to his X account, announcing he’s dropping out.
Several top Democrats heaped praise on President Biden after his announcement that he will drop out of the 2024 presidential race, just a few months before the general election.
“President Biden has been an extraordinary, history-making president—a leader who has fought hard for working people and delivered astonishing results for all Americans,” wrote California Gov. Gavin Newsom on social media. “He will go down in history as one of the most impactful and selfless presidents. Thank you, [Joe Biden].”
Mr. Newsom has been speculated as a possible Democratic presidential candidate, though he has dismissed the notion when asked about it. He also has been one of the most high-profile surrogates of President Biden after the latter’s debate performance against former President Trump in late June.
The governor did not mention Ms. Harris, who President Biden officially endorsed on Sunday, in his social media post.
Another Democrat who has been speculated as a possible Democratic presidential candidate, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, said President Biden has been a “great public servant” before praising his record.
“His remarkable work to lower prescription drug costs, fix the damn roads, bring supply chains home, address climate change, and ensure America’s global leadership over decades will go down in history,” she wrote, adding that she will do “everything I can to elect Democrats.”
She also made no mention of Ms. Harris.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said that President Biden has been a “great president and a great legislative leader,” adding that “his decision of course was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.”
“Joe, today shows you are a true patriot and great American,” the Senate leader wrote.
Mr. Schumer’s deputy, Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), also said President Biden “always put country first,” adding, “Now the Democratic Party must unite behind a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump and keep America moving in the right direction. I will do everything in my power to help that effort.”
Not all Democrats appeared to be pleased with President Biden’s decision, including his former White House chief of staff, Ron Klain. However, Mr. Klain did endorse Ms. Harris.
“Now that the donors and electeds have pushed out the only candidate who has ever beaten Trump, it’s time to end the political fantasy games and unite behind the only veteran of a national campaign—our outstanding Kamala Harris’!! Let’s get real and win in November!” he wrote.
Obama Responds, Makes No Mention of Harris
48 days ago
Former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton on Sunday praised President Joe Biden after he suspended his reelection campaign Sunday.
In a lengthy statement, the 44th president described President Biden as "one of America’s most consequential presidents" and a "dear friend."
Going a step further, former President Obama said that his announcement Sunday to drop out shows "he's a patriot of the highest order."
"I also know Joe has never backed down from a fight. For him to look at the political landscape and decide that he should pass the torch to a new nominee is surely one of the toughest in his life," the former president wrote. "But I know he wouldn’t make this decision unless he believed it was right for America."
The announcement is a "testament to Joe Biden’s love of country" and a "historic example" of "putting the interests of the American people ahead of his own that future generations of leaders will do well to follow."
President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama step off Air Force One upon arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City on March 28, 2024. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images)
Biden Family Members Respond
48 days ago
Members of President Joe Biden’s family said they are proud of the president after he announced he’s dropping out of the 2024 presidential race on Sunday.
His wife, First Lady Jill Biden, quote-tweeted his post, adding a heart emoji. She offered no other comment beside that post.
His granddaughter Naomi Biden praised the president as “the most effective president of our lifetime” in an X statement. “I’m nothing but proud today of my Pop, our President, Joe Biden,” she wrote.
Brother Frank Biden, told ABC News Sunday that the decision to withdraw had “boil[ed] down” to his “overall health and vitality,” without elaborating.
DNC Reveals Top Priority
48 days ago
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) revealed its top priority after President Joe Biden announced Sunday he won't seek reelection for president while tossing his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.
Democratic National Committee chairman Jaime Harrison said in a statement that Democrats will “undertake a transparent and orderly process to move forward as a united Democratic Party with a candidate who can defeat" former President Donald Trump, the Republican Party's nominee for president, in the November election.
“This process will be governed by established rules and procedures of the party,” Mr. Harrison added. “Our delegates are prepared to take seriously their responsibility in swiftly delivering a candidate to the American people.”
His statement also said that "in short order, the American people will hear from the Democratic Party on next steps and the path forward for the nomination process.”
Key Biden Donor Alex Soros Reacts
48 days ago
Alex Soros, the son of billionaire George Soros, who earlier urged Democrats to support Joe Biden, issued a statement after the president announced his withdrawal from the 2024 campaign.
“I write this with a heavy heart. Joe Biden is a patriot, a man who has always worked to unite America and stand for the dignity and well being of all Americans,” Mr. Soros wrote on X.
“He has done more in four years than most could dream to accomplish in eight. He will be remembered as an American hero because he is. Thank you @potus for your service.”
Clintons Endorse Harris
48 days ago
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton released a joint statement after President Joe Biden stepped down as the presumptive party nominee on Sunday.
“President Biden has capped his extraordinary career of service with a Presidency that has lifted America out of an unprecedented pandemic, created millions of new jobs, rebuilt a battered economy, strengthened our democracy, and restored our standing in the world,” the couple wrote.
“We join millions of Americans in thanking President Biden for all he has accomplished, standing up for America time and time again, with his North Star always being what’s best for the country.”
Former President Clinton and Ms. Clinton said they are “honored to join the President in endorsing Vice President Harris and will do whatever we can to support her,” adding that “America’s future depends on it.”
Michigan Gov. Whitmer Reacts
48 days ago
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, whose name has been regularly mentioned as a possible replacement for President Joe Biden in the 2024 race, posted a statement on X.
“President Biden is a great public servant who knows better than anyone what it takes to defeat Donald Trump,” the governor wrote on X.
She praised the president for lowering the cost of prescription drug costs, investing in infrastructure, bringing supply chains home, and addressing the climate crisis.
“My job in this election will remain the same: doing everything I can to elect Democrats,” she said, while criticizing the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer at Beech Woods Recreation Center in Southfield, Mich., on Oct. 16, 2020. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Gov. Newsom Heaps Praise on Biden
48 days ago
California Gov. Gavin Newsom praised President Joe Biden on Sunday after he dropped out of the 2024 presidential race.
"President Biden has been an extraordinary, history-making president—a leader who has fought hard for working people and delivered astonishing results for all Americans. He will go down in history as one of the most impactful and selfless presidents. Thank you, [Joe Biden]," wrote Mr. Newsom, a Democrat, on social media.
The governor did not make mention of Vice President Kamala Harris, who President Biden officially endorsed on Sunday, in his social media post.
Mr. Newsom has been speculated as a possible Democratic Party presidential candidate, although he has dismissed the notion when asked about it. He also has been one of the most high-profile surrogates of President Biden after the president's lackluster debate performance with former President Donald Trump in late June.
Former White House Chief of Staff Endorses Harris
48 days ago
Ronald Klain, President Biden’s former White House chief of staff, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party nominee after the president stepped down from the ticket on Sunday.
“Now that the donors and electeds have pushed out the only candidate who has ever beaten Trump, it’s time to end the political fantasy games and unite behind the only veteran of a national campaign—our outstanding @vp, @KamalaHarris!!” he said in a post on X.
“Let’s get real and win in November!”
Schumer Calls Biden ‘True Patriot’
48 days ago
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) posted to X after President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 presidential race on Sunday.
“Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader, but he's a truly amazing human being,” Mr. Schumer said.
“His decision, of course, was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.
“Joe, today shows you are a true patriot and great American,” the senator added.
Previously, the senator had defended President Biden, telling reporters “I’m with Joe.”
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) speaks during the weekly Senate presser in the U.S. Capitol building in Washington on July 9, 2024. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)
Johnson Says Biden ‘Forced’ Off Ballot
48 days ago
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), in a lengthy statement Sunday, claimed that he believes the Democratic Party "forced" President Joe Biden "off the ballot" with "just over 100 days before the election."
"At this unprecedented juncture in American history, we must be clear about what just happened," he wrote in a post on X, adding that the party has "invalidated the votes of more than 14 million Americans" who voted in favor of President Biden in the primary elections.
Mr. Johnson called for President Biden to "resign the office immediately."
Trump Responds
48 days ago
In a post on Truth Social, the former president and Republican nominee for president responded to the news that President Biden dropped out of the race.
Former President Trump suggested voters cast their ballots for him in November to "remedy the damage" that was done, while criticizing the president's record.
He did not offer his perspective on President Biden's endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris to run as the Democratic Party's presidential nominee.
Former President Donald J. Trump and his family during the last day of the RNC in Milwaukee, Wis., on July 18, 2024. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)
Biden Endorses Harris
48 days ago
Minutes after announcing he is bowing out of the 2024 presidential race, President Joe Biden wrote on social media that he is endorsing his vice president and running mate, Kamala Harris.
"My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term," the president wrote on X, accompanied by a photo of himself and Ms. Harris at the White House.
Saying that his "very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President," President Biden said he will offer his "full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year."
He urged Democrats to "come together" to beat former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee in November's election.
What's Next?
48 days ago
With President Joe Biden stepping down from the 2024 presidential race, the future of the Democratic Party ticket is uncertain. Immediately after withdrawing his candidacy, President Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in a post on X.
However, others could challenge her at the Democratic National Convention, which starts on Aug. 19.
President Biden’s delegates may opt to support Ms. Harris. But if a candidate is not selected in the first round of voting, super delegates can vote in subsequent rounds.
As a result, a number of party hopefuls could make their pitches to delegates. Amid speculation after the June 27 Biden–Trump debate, several names have been floated, with some polling higher than President Biden in key swing states.
Some of those names include Ms. Harris, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, former First Lady Michelle Obama, and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear.
The Democratic National Committee also plans to hold an early roll call after Aug. 1. It is uncertain whether a candidate will be selected during that process or at the convention.
What We Know So Far
48 days ago
President Joe Biden on July 21 dropped out of the presidential race and endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, for the Democratic Party nomination. Here’s what we know so far:
- President Biden announced his decision after a pressure campaign emerged from within his own party in the aftermath of his June 27 debate against former President Donald Trump
- After withdrawing from the race, President Biden immediately endorsed Ms. Harris in a post on X.
- More than three dozen House Democrats, and five senators had publicly asked the president to step aside.
- In addition to the internal party pressure, President Biden has been dealing with a third bout of COVID-19. The most recent letter from his doctor suggested the president was in good health.
- Democrats last week decided to postpone a virtual vote on the nominee in the days leading up to the president’s announcement.
- As of July 21, the president had so far won 3,896 delegates in primary elections.
What We Know So Far
48 days ago
President Joe Biden on July 21 dropped out of the presidential race and endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, for the Democratic Party nomination. Here’s what we know so far:
- President Biden announced his decision after a pressure campaign emerged from within his own party in the aftermath of his June 27 debate against former President Donald Trump
- After withdrawing from the race, President Biden immediately endorsed Ms. Harris in a post on X.
- More than three dozen House Democrats, and five senators had publicly asked the president to step aside.
- In addition to the internal party pressure, President Biden has been dealing with a third bout of COVID-19. The most recent letter from his doctor suggested the president was in good health.
- Democrats last week decided to postpone a virtual vote on the nominee in the days leading up to the president’s announcement.
- As of July 21, the president had so far won 3,896 delegates in primary elections.
Biden Drops Out
President Joe Biden on July 21 dropped out of the presidential race and endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, for the Democratic nomination.“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President,” he said in a letter posted to X.
“And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
Some Democratic donors, lawmakers, and celebrities had called on President Biden to drop out as the party nominee, scrutinizing his performance in the first presidential debate with former President Donald Trump on June 27 and expressing concern for his viability in November. The president had repeatedly said he had a “bad night,” was not sufficiently prepared, and initially committed to staying in the race.
“I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision,” the president said in his letter.
“For now, let me express my deepest gratitude to all those who have worked so hard to see me reelected. I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for being an extraordinary partner in all this work. And let me express my heartfelt appreciation to the American people for the faith and trust you have placed in me.”
“I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can’t do—when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America,” the president said.
In another post, the president stated that he has endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s nominee.
“My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made,” he said. “Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”
The president made the announcement while in self-isolation due to COVID-19.
President Biden tested positive for the virus on July 17 in Las Vegas during campaign events. He canceled his events and returned to his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, to self-isolate during recovery the same day.
“His symptoms have improved significantly. His pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate and temperature remain absolutely normal,” his doctor said in the most recent letter.
The lawmakers who had publicly stated they believe President Biden should not seek reelection were those who are facing tough elections this year in competitive swing districts.
U.S. President Joe Biden and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris take the stage at a campaign rally at Girard College in Philadelphia on May 29, 2024. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
Media reports have also suggested that various Democratic elites, including former President Barack Obama, U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), had privately urged President Biden to drop out as the nominee.
One of the most recent calls came from Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.), the state’s senior Senator in a competitive race, who said in a July 18 statement that President Biden should step down as nominee.
Mr. Tester expressed appreciation for the president’s “commitment to public service and our country” but believes “President Biden should not seek re-election to another term.”
He joined Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), who’s running for California’s open Senate seat. Mr. Schiff urged the president to pass the torch to another candidate to “secure his legacy of leadership by allowing us to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election.”
Mr. Tester became the second U.S. senator after Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) to reject the president’s reelection bid. Mr. Welch, in an op-ed in the Washington Post, wrote, “For the good of the country, I’m calling on President Biden to withdraw from the race.”
US Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally with US President Joe Biden in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 29, 2024. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)
Today’s announcement to drop out of the race ends more than three weeks of speculation over his candidacy and future in the 2024 election. Multiple media reports, citing anonymous sources close to the president, suggested that he was becoming receptive to the calls from other Democrats to pass the torch to another candidate.
Initially, campaign officials rejected those rumors. T.J. Ducklo, senior adviser for communications, called the reports “baseless conjecture from anonymous sources” in a July 18 post on X.
White House senior deputy press secretary Andrew Bates also pushed back against a report suggesting that President Biden would drop out in a matter of days.
“Incorrect. Keep the faith,” he wrote in a July 18 post responding to the report, adding that the president would return to the campaign trail in the following week.
Emel Akan contributed to this report.
