In the wake of US President Joe Biden’s sudden withdrawal from the presidential race, numerous Democrats have quickly rallied behind Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s new nominee to face off against Donald Trump. However, some influential party figures, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have remained silent on the matter.
Former President Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as vice president, has also not yet publicly backed Harris or any other candidate. Obama thanked Biden for his patriotism and expressed confidence that the party’s leaders would create a process to select an outstanding nominee.
Sources close to the situation revealed that all 50 Democratic state party chairs unanimously supported Harris as the new presidential nominee during a conference call held after Biden’s announcement. One source mentioned there was “full support” for Harris to lead the ticket.
With just over three months until the November election, it is crucial for Democrats to swiftly unite behind their new nominee, especially after weeks of internal debate about whether Biden, at 81 years old, should continue his candidacy. However, doubts persist within the party regarding Harris’s ability to defeat Trump, the Republican nominee and former president.
Biden himself endorsed Harris on the social media platform X, saying, “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!” His endorsement was followed by support from the Congressional Black Caucus, key donors, lawmakers, and more. Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also endorsed Harris in a statement.
