Biden Exits 2024 Race, Throws Support Behind Harris

New Delhi: In a stunning political development, President Joe Biden exits 2024 Race of U.S. presidential election on Sunday, throwing his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s new nominee. This surprising decision has drastically changed the dynamics of an already extraordinary race for the White House.

Biden, aged 81, cited the “best interest of my party and the country” as the primary reason for his decision to step down. This move followed weeks of increasing pressure after a poorly received debate against Donald Trump in June, which raised concerns about Biden’s age and cognitive abilities. The announcement came unexpectedly as Biden recuperated from COVID-19 at his Delaware beach house.

The Democratic Party is now facing significant upheaval as it prepares for the November 5 election. However, this shift could also revitalize the party, as Harris, the first Black and South Asian woman vice president, quickly affirmed her aspiration to become America’s first female president and to “defeat Donald Trump.”

Trump responded to the news on his Truth Social network, suggesting that Biden’s decision not to run indicated he was also unfit to serve as president. This development forces the Republican Party to adjust its strategy, which had been heavily focused on a rematch against Biden. Now, they must contend with a much younger and dynamic opponent.

Biden’s withdrawal transforms the 2024 election from a highly anticipated and unpopular Trump-Biden rematch into one of the most captivating presidential campaigns in recent history. Although Biden’s decision had been widely speculated, the timing was unexpected. In a letter posted on X, Biden expressed that serving as president had been the “greatest honor of my life” and committed to focusing on his presidential duties for the remainder of his term.

Support for Harris surged immediately, with endorsements from key Democratic leaders and potential rivals, including California Governor Gavin Newsom. The Democratic fundraising group ActBlue reported that Harris received $27.5 million in small-donor contributions within hours of Biden’s announcement.

As the Democratic Party races to confirm Harris as the nominee at their convention in Chicago on August 19, Harris lauded Biden’s “selfless and patriotic act” and pledged to “earn and win” the nomination. This sets the stage for a historic and fiercely contested election, with Harris poised to make history as the first female president of the United States.