President’s Historic Decision Shakes Up White House Race Against Trump
In an unprecedented move, US President Joe Biden has decided to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. Biden’s decision, which he announced on social media Sunday, was driven by what he described as the “best interest of my party and the country.”
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your president,” Biden said. “And while it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as president for the remainder of my term.”
Biden, who has not been seen in public since testing positive for COVID-19 last Wednesday, plans to address the nation later this week to elaborate on his decision. In a subsequent social media post, he fully endorsed Harris, calling on Democrats to unite behind her to defeat Donald Trump.
“Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump,” Biden added. “Let’s do this.”
Kamala Harris expressed her gratitude for Biden’s endorsement, stating, “My intention is to earn and win this nomination. I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic party — and unite our nation — to defeat Donald Trump.”
Harris’s candidacy quickly gained momentum, with endorsements from notable figures including former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who pledged their support. California Governor Gavin Newsom also backed Harris, citing her ability to lead the country away from Trump’s “dark vision.”
“With our democracy at stake and our future on the line, no one is better to prosecute the case against Donald Trump’s dark vision and guide our country in a healthier direction than America’s vice-president,” Newsom said.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is also expected to endorse Harris, according to sources within the Democratic Party.
Former President Barack Obama praised Biden’s presidency, calling him “one of America’s most consequential presidents” but refrained from endorsing a specific successor, expressing confidence in the party’s ability to select an outstanding nominee.
The Democratic Party faces a critical period as it seeks to consolidate support for a new candidate ahead of the official nominating convention on August 19. Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison assured that the party would soon outline the path forward for the nomination process.
Biden’s decision comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and follows weeks of intense debate within the Democratic Party about his candidacy. Concerns over Biden’s age and cognitive abilities were reignited following a challenging debate performance against Trump. An Associated Press poll revealed that nearly two-thirds of Democratic voters believed Biden should withdraw from the race.
In response to Biden’s announcement, Trump, who had gained a significant lead in recent polls, asserted on his Truth Social platform that Biden was “not fit to run for president” and “certainly not fit to serve.” Republican Speaker of the House Mike Johnson echoed these sentiments, calling for Biden’s immediate resignation.
Nevertheless, Biden received commendation from top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who lauded his leadership and selflessness.
The 46th president’s withdrawal marks the end of a remarkable political career spanning over five decades. Biden, who entered the Senate in 1973, served as vice president under Obama and led the nation through significant challenges during his tenure in the Oval Office.
(Associated Medias) – Tutti i diritti sono riservati
