US ELECTION: Biden Withdraws from 2024 Presidential Race: Key Reasons and Reactions
President Joe Biden has announced his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, just four months before the election. This move follows mounting pressure and concern from key Democratic figures about his prospects.
Key Incidents and Influences
Several prominent Democrats privately urged Biden to step aside. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi are among those who expressed their concerns.
Former President Barack Obama, Biden’s former running mate, reportedly indicated that Biden’s chances of winning had significantly decreased.
Calls for Biden to Step Down
US Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia suggested it was time for Biden to “pass the torch to a new generation,” allowing him to focus on issues like supporting Ukraine against Russia and addressing the conflict in Gaza. Manchin praised Biden’s legacy, urging him to step down with dignity.
Additionally, Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland likened Biden to a fatigued baseball pitcher, suggesting it was time for a new leader.
Despite Biden’s insistence that he would not back down, calls for his withdrawal have grown louder within the Democratic Party.
Growing Opposition
Lawmakers from both houses have increasingly called for Biden to exit the race. After the June 27 debate, Texas Congressman Lloyd Doggett was the first to suggest Biden should withdraw. Senators Peter Welch of Vermont, Martin Heinrich of New Mexico, and Jon Tester of Montana also publicly urged Biden to step aside.
Other representatives, such as Adam Schiff of California and several others in competitive re-election races, joined the chorus of voices asking Biden to withdraw.
Biden’s Decision
Succumbing to the pressure, President Biden announced his withdrawal from the presidential race on his X platform (formerly Twitter). In his statement, he expressed gratitude to Vice President Kamala Harris and the American people for their support. Biden reiterated his belief in the unity and potential of the United States.
He also mentioned that he would address the nation about his decision in the following week. Recently, Biden had returned to Delaware after a COVID-19 diagnosis but was planning to resume campaigning.
Endorsement of Kamala Harris
In a significant development, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee. He stated, “My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
Republican nominee Donald Trump responded to Biden’s withdrawal on Truth Social, claiming that Biden was unfit to run for President.
Biden’s decision marks a pivotal moment in the 2024 presidential race, reshaping the Democratic campaign strategy and s
etting the stage for new leadership.
