President Joe Biden has announced that he will not be seeking re-election in the 2024 presidential race. In a letter posted to X, Biden stated that while he initially intended to run, he believes it is in the best interests of his party and the country for him to step aside and focus on fulfilling his duties as president for the remainder of his term.
Biden’s decision comes just weeks after a widely criticized debate performance against former President Donald Trump. In the days following, 37 congressional Democrats and those who caucus with them had called on Biden to withdraw from the race.
Following the announcement, Biden took to X again to endorse his vice president, Kamala Harris, as the Democratic nominee for president.
Democratic politicians have reacted to Biden’s announcement with a mix of support and praise for his legacy. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a potential 2024 Democratic candidate, wrote on X, “President Biden has been an extraordinary, history-making president — a leader who has fought hard for working people and delivered astonishing results for all Americans. He will go down in history as one of the most impactful and selfless presidents.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., also expressed his support, saying, “Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader, but he is a truly amazing human being. His decision of course was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.”
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, another potential Democratic contender, wrote on X, “President Biden is a great public servant who knows better than anyone what it takes to defeat Donald Trump. His remarkable work to lower prescription drug costs, fix the damn roads, bring supply chains home, address climate change, and ensure America’s global leadership over decades will go down in history.”
Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, D-Ill., added his praise, stating that Biden “always put country first.” He concluded by saying, “Now the Democratic Party must unite behind a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump and keep America moving in the right direction. I will do everything in my power to help that effort.”
With Biden’s withdrawal, the 2024 presidential race is shaping up to be a battle between Trump and Harris. The Republican National Committee (RNC) swiftly responded to Biden’s announcement, releasing a statement calling it “a victory for the American people” and emphasizing their commitment to electing Trump.
The political landscape is now poised for a new chapter as the Democratic Party rallies behind Harris, while Trump looks to secure a second term in the White House.
