President Joe Biden announced on Sunday, July 21, 2024 that he will not seek re-election in the 2024 presidential race, instead endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
The 81-year-old president made the surprising announcement in a statement, citing his belief that it is in the best interest of his party and the country to step aside.
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President,” Biden wrote. He continued that while he had strongly intended to seek a second term, he felt it was in the best interests of the country and the Democratic party for him to withdraw. He said he will focus on fulfilling his duties for the remainder of his presidency.
Biden’s decision comes after months of speculation and growing concerns about his age and mental fitness. His announcement has set off a flurry of reactions from political figures, celebrities, and the public.
Harris, who would be the first woman, Black person, and Asian American to be a major party’s presidential nominee, expressed gratitude for Biden’s support. “I am deeply honored by President Biden’s confidence in me and his endorsement. I am committed to uniting our party and our nation to defeat Donald Trump in November,” she said in a statement.
The Democratic Party now faces the challenge of rallying behind Harris without the usual primary and caucus process. The Democratic National Convention delegates will select the party’s candidate, a process that is expected to be both swift and contentious.
Biden’s decision has drawn praise from his Cabinet members and prominent Democrats. Former President Barack Obama praised Biden’s tenure and decision, stating, “Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order.”
The announcement also sparked reactions from celebrities. “Star Trek” actor George Takei tweeted his praise for President Biden, noting his decency and successes and called him a patriot.
Similarly, Mark Hamill, known for his role in “Star Wars,” posted that Biden has more accomplishments than any president in his lifetime. He praised Biden’s integrity, honesty and dignity, compared to Trump’s four years of scandal, lies and chaos.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump took to his platform, Truth Social, to criticize Biden’s decision. “Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for President, and is certainly not fit to serve – And never was!” he wrote. Trump’s allies have already launched attack ads targeting Harris, indicating a contentious election ahead.
Reactions from the entertainment industry were varied. Musician Lil Nas X commented on Biden’s Instagram post, “Wow It’s really jover.” Cardi B expressed excitement over Harris’s candidacy, writing on X, “AHAHAHAHA LETS GOOOOO I TOLD YALLL KAMALA WAS SUPPOSED TO BE THE 2024 candidate…. !!!!!!!”
Barbra Streisand, a longtime Democratic supporter, expressed her appreciation for Biden’s efforts, stating that Joe Biden would go down in history as a president who accomplished significant achievements in a four-year term. She credited him for the “upholding of our democracy.”
The decision also drew reactions from world leaders, who thanked Biden for his service and support during his term. Biden’s withdrawal has created an unprecedented situation, with the Democratic Party needing to quickly unite behind a new candidate.
Several prominent Democrats, including governors Gretchen Whitmer, Gavin Newsom, J.B. Pritzker, and Wes Moore, are expected to compete for the nomination, adding further complexity to the race. The Democratic National Committee has assured that the nomination process will be “transparent and orderly.”
Biden’s announcement caps a remarkable 52-year political career, marked by significant legislative achievements and service in various capacities. He has been praised for his work on gun safety legislation, appointing the first Black woman to the Supreme Court, and enacting significant climate change legislation.
Despite the challenges ahead, Harris has expressed confidence in her ability to unite the party and win the election. “I will work tirelessly to earn the support of our party and our nation,” she said.
As the political landscape shifts, the focus now turns to how the Democratic Party will navigate this unexpected turn of events and prepare for the November election. With Biden stepping aside, Harris now has the opportunity to make history and lead the party against Trump.