Marco Julian Serrano President Joe Biden informed everyone on Sunday that he won’t be running for reelection and is instead Vice President Kamala Harris to follow in his. This unexpected move has thrown the 2024 presidential race into chaos, with Democrats gathering around Harris or weighing other options.
The Situation and Initial Responses
Biden, who is 81 years old, pointed out concerns about his age and ability to serve a second term as the main reasons for stopping his campaign. He wrote on social media, “Serving as your President has been the biggest privilege of my life. Although I planned to run again, I feel it’s best for my party and the country if I step back and fully focus on doing my job as President until this term ends.”
Vice President Harris thanked Biden for supporting her, saying, “I am grateful to have the backing of the President and plan to win this honor. We will strive together. And we will triumph together.”
The Democratic Party Supports and Criticizes
Rep. Ted Lieu deputy head of the House Democratic Caucus was quick to back Harris. He said, “I became one of Congress’ earliest supporters endorsing Kamala Harris’ presidential bid four years ago. I’m honored to support @KamalaHarris once again.”
Jaime Harrison, chairperson of the Democratic National Committee made it clear that they will proceed with openness in creating unity within party with a candidate strong enough to take on Donald Trump.
- Promotions, Many Democrats followed suit after Biden’s promotion through endorsing Harris including former president Bill Clinton paired with Hillary Clinton, Sen Tammy Baldwin, and Rep Andy Kim.
- Doubts, Some Democrats are suggesting that the party should entertain possible other contenders instead of making Harris the automatic choice.
Possible Difficulties and Prospects for Harris
Harris may enjoy Biden’s support and resource donations from his campaign, but big challenges still lie ahead. The latest polls put her in a better position than Biden in a matchup with Trump, although her capability to unite her party is still questionable.
One person who raised significant funds for the BidenHarris campaign stated, “She’ll need to secure this commitment quickly within 24 to 48 hours. It’s hers for the claiming at this moment.” Conversely, some moneygivers want an open selection process uncertain if Harris will be the best candidate.
How Republicans Responded and Trump’s Plan
Ex-president Donald Trump’s campaign team has readied their defenses expecting Harris as another strong contender. They expect Democrats to stand behind Harris to prevent infighting within their party.
GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski recognized Biden for taking a step back saying, “I admire President Biden’s decision to prioritize the country over personal ambition by withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race.”
Effect on Democratic Primary
The issue now with President Biden out of the picture prompts some groups to call for an transparent way of picking out who will get nominated by Democrats. Thirdparty candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr advocates a neutral method such as polling method to identify a strong opponent against Trump.
Kennedy made his point clear, “I’m asking the Democratic Party to reaffirm its commitment towards democracy through an open process where anyone can participate openly. They can use impartial polling methods which can identify someone who could potentially defeat Donald Trump.”
What’s Next?
The Democratic National Convention is starting in August 19 in Chicago, which is less than one month away. The party must decide who will take Biden’s place. This is a vital period for Harris as she tries to lock down the nomination and prepare for the overall election against Trump.
In the meantime, groups opposing abortion have called Harris the “Abortion Czar,” planning to rally their voters against her much like they did during the 2016 election against Hillary Clinton.
Final Words
Biden pulling out of the race has really shaken up the 2024 presidential election. Everyone is watching closely how well Vice President Harris will be able to unite Democrats and pose a tough challenge against Trump. The direction of Democrats’ campaign and their fate in November are hinged on what happens these next few weeks.
