Biden Withdraws from 2024 Presidential Race
In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden has announced the end of his re-election campaign and endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris as his successor for the Democratic nomination. This dramatic decision significantly alters the landscape of the 2024 presidential race.
Biden’s Statement and Decision
At 81 years old, Biden declared in a Sunday statement that serving as president has been his “greatest honor,” but stepping down was “in the best interest of my party and the country.” Despite his withdrawal from the campaign, Biden affirmed that he will continue to serve as president until January.
Kamala Harris, 59, expressed her honor at receiving Biden’s endorsement. She committed to “earn and win this nomination” and to unite the nation against former President Donald Trump. “We have 107 days until Election Day,” Harris stated. “Together, we will fight. And together, we will win.”
Democratic Reactions and Next Steps
Harris has yet to be officially nominated, which may not occur until the Democratic National Convention in August. Despite this, numerous prominent Democrats have quickly rallied behind her.
Support from Democratic Leaders
- Barack Obama: Praised Biden’s decision and expressed confidence that a strong nominee would emerge, though he did not explicitly endorse Harris.
- Bill and Hillary Clinton: Both have voiced their support for Harris and committed to fighting for her election.
- Peter Welch: The first Democratic senator to call for Biden’s withdrawal, Welch advocated for an “open process” to nominate Harris.
Republican Responses and Criticisms
The announcement has provoked strong reactions from Republicans, who have seized the opportunity to critique both Biden and Harris.
Calls for Biden’s Immediate Resignation
Several senior Republicans have intensified their calls for Biden to resign from the presidency immediately. They argue that Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race highlights his unfitness to serve. For instance:
- House Speaker Mike Johnson: Demanded Biden’s immediate resignation, stating, “November 5 cannot arrive soon enough.”
- Donald Trump: Criticized Biden’s fitness for office but did not explicitly call for his resignation.
Attacks on Kamala Harris
In response to Biden’s endorsement of Harris, Republicans have prepared attacks focused on her potential candidacy:
- Criticism on Immigration: Harris’s role as the “border czar” has been a frequent target, with accusations of ineffectiveness.
- Pro-Trump Super-PAC: Released an advert attacking Harris, alleging she has “covered up Joe’s obvious mental decline.”
Democratic Unity and Transition
With Biden’s decision, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) is now focused on the upcoming convention and ensuring a smooth transition to Harris’s candidacy.
Unified Democratic Support
Several potential rivals for the nomination have publicly supported Harris, including:
- California Governor Gavin Newsom: Praised Biden’s decision and endorsed Harris.
- Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro: Expressed his commitment to help elect Harris as president.
- Pete Buttigieg: A former presidential contender, Buttigieg affirmed his support for Harris.
- Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer: Reiterated her commitment to electing Democrats and opposing Trump.
The DNC has also updated its fundraising committees to reflect Harris’s candidacy, establishing the Harris Victory Fund and Harris Action Fund.
Biden’s Recent Scrutiny and Public Perception
Biden’s debate performance in June, marked by incoherent responses, intensified scrutiny of his fitness for office. His recent public gaffes and mistaken references during a NATO summit further fueled concerns.
In his statement, Biden expressed gratitude to Harris for her partnership and to the American people for their trust. He concluded by reaffirming his belief in America’s capabilities when working together.
Focus on the Upcoming Democratic National Convention
With Biden’s withdrawal, the DNC is preparing for its national convention scheduled to start on August 19. Delegates, previously pledged to vote for Biden, are expected to be released to vote for another candidate, likely Kamala Harris.
FAQ: Biden’s Withdrawal and Its Implications
1. Why did President Biden end his re-election campaign?
President Biden ended his campaign, citing that it was in the best interest of the Democratic Party and the country. He expressed that serving as president has been a great honor but believed his withdrawal was necessary.
2. What will happen to Kamala Harris’s nomination?
Kamala Harris has been endorsed by Biden but has yet to be officially nominated. The nomination is expected to occur at the Democratic National Convention in August, where she will seek formal approval from the party.
3. How have Republicans reacted to Biden’s decision?
Many Republicans have called for Biden’s immediate resignation, arguing that his decision to withdraw from the re-election race underscores his unfitness to serve as president. They have also begun preparing attacks on Kamala Harris.
4. What are the main criticisms of Kamala Harris from Republicans?
Republicans have criticized Harris’s handling of immigration issues and are preparing attacks that link her to Biden’s perceived failings. They have also questioned her competence and policies.
5. How is the Democratic Party responding to Biden’s withdrawal?
The Democratic Party is focusing on transitioning to Harris’s candidacy, with many senior Democrats expressing support. The DNC has updated its fundraising efforts to reflect Harris’s candidacy and is preparing for the upcoming convention.
6. What is the significance of the upcoming Democratic National Convention?
The Democratic National Convention, starting on August 19, will be the venue where Kamala Harris is expected to be officially nominated as the Democratic candidate. The convention will also serve as a critical moment for the party to unify and strategize for the general election.
