On Sunday, President Joe Biden announced the end of his reelection campaign, responding to growing concerns among fellow Democrats about his mental acuity and ability to defeat Donald Trump. Biden, 81, stated on X (formerly Twitter) that he will continue serving as president until his term concludes in January 2025 and will address the nation later this week. Initially, his statement did not include an endorsement for Vice President Kamala Harris, but he later expressed his support for her as the party’s new candidate. Harris, 59, would be the first Black woman to lead a major-party ticket in U.S. history.
Biden's unexpected decision came after significant pressure from Democratic lawmakers and donors who questioned his stamina and electoral viability. His poor performance in a June 27 debate against Trump, where he struggled to complete sentences, intensified these concerns. Biden had initially resisted calls to step aside, but his advanced age and recent health issues, including a third bout with COVID-19, further eroded confidence in his candidacy.
The abrupt shift in Biden’s position—announced on social media shortly after a change of heart reported by sources—has set the stage for a dramatic Democratic primary. While Harris is seen as a likely nominee, it remains uncertain if other senior Democrats might challenge her or if the party will open the field to additional candidates.
Biden’s withdrawal marks the first time a sitting president has ended their party's nomination bid since Lyndon Johnson in 1968. Harris’s potential candidacy represents a historic gamble for the Democratic Party, with her being the first Black and Asian American woman to head a major-party ticket. This move poses a unique challenge, as the U.S. has only elected one Black president and never a woman president.
During Biden’s first term, his age and occasional gaffes became focal points of debate. His previous claim of being a bridge to the next generation was initially seen as a strategic move, but as his health and performance faltered, support for a second term dwindled. Biden's endorsement of Harris reflects his belief that she is the best choice for the party, despite questions about her experience and popularity.
Harris, with her strong stance on abortion rights and a track record of advocacy, might energize younger and progressive voters. However, her previous struggles and the weight of racial and gender biases could impact her campaign. The Democratic Party now faces a critical decision: whether to rally behind Harris or consider other potential candidates like California Governor Gavin Newsom or Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Public opinion is mixed. In a recent poll, Harris and Trump were tied in a hypothetical matchup, while Biden trailed Trump. Despite this, Harris’s approval ratings are slightly better than Biden’s, though still low.
As the party navigates this historic transition, the challenges of racism, sexism, and internal party dynamics will play a significant role in shaping the upcoming election. Harris's candidacy, if confirmed, will offer a stark contrast to Trump and could potentially galvanize a diverse coalition of voters. However, she also faces the challenge of uniting the party and overcoming historical barriers within the next few months.