Vice President Kamala Harris has officially declared her candidacy for the presidency, positioning herself to secure the Democratic party’s nomination. This announcement follows President Joe Biden’s recent decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race.
Biden, who is 81, cited increasing pressure from within his party as a key factor in his decision. In a statement released on X.com on July 21, he expressed that stepping down was in the best interest of both the party and the country, emphasizing his commitment to fulfilling his current presidential duties until the end of his term.
Biden’s exit from the race was swiftly followed by his endorsement of Kamala Harris. In a supportive statement, Biden praised Harris as his top choice and reflected positively on his decision to select her as his vice presidential running mate in 2020.
He urged Democratic voters to unite behind Harris to ensure victory against the Republican nominee, former president Donald Trump. Biden’s endorsement highlights Harris as the leading contender for the Democratic nomination, signaling a clear shift in the party’s direction.
Kamala Harris responded promptly to Biden’s endorsement, expressing gratitude for his leadership and support. She acknowledged the importance of his backing and affirmed her intention to earn the Democratic nomination.
In a follow-up post, Harris emphasized her commitment to unifying the Democratic Party and the nation in the effort to defeat Trump and his “extreme Project 2025 agenda.” Her statements reflect a focus on both internal party unity and broader national challenges.
Despite Biden’s endorsement, Kamala Harris faces competition for the Democratic nomination. The final decision will be made by 3,900 delegates at the Democratic National Convention, scheduled to start on August 19 in Chicago.
Potential challengers include prominent figures such as California Governor Gavin Newsom, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, adding complexity to Harris’s path to securing the nomination.
In his announcement, Biden also praised Harris as an “extraordinary partner” and reiterated his belief in the strength and unity of the American people.
His farewell message underscored his enduring faith in the collective capability of the United States and urged a united effort moving forward. Biden’s exit marks a significant moment in the 2024 presidential race, setting the stage for a potentially competitive Democratic primary.
