President Joe Biden has ended his reelection bid and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. Democrats now face a unique challenge as they prepare for their convention in Chicago from August 19-22.
With Biden’s endorsement, Harris must secure support from nearly 4,700 delegates. Biden, who won every state primary, has 3,896 pledged delegates, but party rules don’t allow him to transfer them. However, his backing of Harris is expected to influence the delegates’ decisions.
Several other potential contenders, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, have been mentioned. Yet, many Democrats believe it would be wise to elevate Harris, the first woman, Black woman, and person of South Asian descent to hold national office.
NY Democrats Praise Biden, Stefanik Calls for Resignation
New York Democrats praised President Joe Biden for his service after he announced he won’t seek reelection. Gov. Kathy Hochul called Biden “one of the greatest champions of working families.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries thanked Biden for his leadership, highlighting his efforts during the pandemic and his defeat of Donald Trump in 2020. Schumer called Biden a “true patriot and great American.”
U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican, demanded Biden resign immediately, calling him “unfit” for office. Despite mixed reactions, Biden’s endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris sets the stage for her to be the Democratic nominee in the upcoming election.
Read the letter President Biden released on Sunday announcing his departure from the race:
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