Biden News

Biden Drops 2024 Re-election Bid Amidst Calls for Harris' Succession

President Biden Ends Speculation, Opens Door for New Democratic Leadership

July 21, 2024 | 10:54 AM PDT | Updated 5:17 PM PDT

By Peter Nicholas and Dareh Gregorian In a surprise announcement that has sent shockwaves through the Democratic Party, President Joseph R. Biden, 81, has decided not to seek re-election in 2024. The announcement has thrown the upcoming presidential contest into turmoil and has sparked a new wave of speculation about who will succeed Biden as the party's standard-bearer.

Biden's Announcement and Its Aftermath

In a televised address to the nation on Sunday afternoon, Biden revealed his decision, citing his age and the need for a "new generation of leadership" to take the helm. He praised the accomplishments of his administration, including the American Rescue Plan, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the passage of gun safety legislation. However, he also acknowledged that the country faced significant challenges and that he believed a younger president would be better equipped to address them.

The news of Biden's withdrawal was met with a mix of disappointment and understanding. Some Democrats expressed concern that the party would lose the experience and stability that Biden had brought to the Oval Office. However, others welcomed the opportunity for a new face to lead the party, particularly in light of Biden's declining approval ratings.

Calls for Kamala Harris to Run

As the speculation about Biden's potential successor began, Vice President Kamala Harris quickly emerged as the frontrunner. Harris, 59, is the first woman and the first Black person to serve as vice president. She is also a popular figure among the Democratic base and is seen as a potential unifier for the party.

A growing number of Democrats, including several members of Congress, have publicly called on Harris to run for president in 2024. They argue that Harris has the experience, the charisma, and the values to lead the country through a new era.

Other Potential Candidates

While Harris is considered the favorite, several other Democrats are also being mentioned as potential presidential candidates. These include Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who was a runner-up to Biden in the 2020 primaries; Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who has twice mounted unsuccessful presidential campaigns; and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a progressive favorite who also ran in 2020.

Conclusion

President Biden's decision not to seek re-election in 2024 has opened up a new and uncertain chapter in Democratic politics. Vice President Harris is currently the frontrunner to succeed Biden, but several other candidates are also in the running. As the race for the Democratic nomination heats up, the party will need to find a candidate who can unify its diverse factions and inspire the American people.