On Sunday, President Joe Biden made a surprising announcement: he is dropping out of the 2024 presidential race. This sudden decision has set off a flurry of activity within the Democratic Party as they scramble to determine their next candidate.
In a move that has captured much attention, Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his preferred successor. He praised her selection as vice president as “the best decision I’ve made” and offered her his “full support and endorsement.” Despite this, Biden’s endorsement does not automatically make Harris the nominee. The decision now rests with the Democratic delegates who must choose a candidate to represent the party in the upcoming election.
Following Biden’s announcement, key Democratic figures have rallied behind Harris. Prominent politicians like California Governor Gavin Newsom, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar have all voiced their support for Harris. Whitmer, the governor of Michigan, has also made clear that she will not pursue the nomination and will continue with her current role.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has vowed to conduct a transparent and orderly process in selecting the new nominee. Jaime Harrison, the DNC chair, emphasized that the party will follow established rules to ensure a united front as they prepare to face Republican candidate Donald Trump in November. Harrison indicated that the delegates are prepared to quickly rally behind a candidate who can win the general election.
Among the potential contenders, Vice President Kamala Harris stands out. At 59, she is the sitting vice president and has already garnered significant endorsements. However, she faces challenges in polling, particularly in battleground states where former President Trump currently leads.
Other possible candidates include:
- Senator Joe Manchin: Manchin, a former Democrat who now caucuses as an independent, is reportedly considering a run, though he would need to rejoin the Democratic Party to do so.
- Governor Gavin Newsom: The California governor, known for his liberal stances, has endorsed Harris and expressed admiration for Biden’s leadership.
- Governor Gretchen Whitmer: Whitmer, a popular governor with a strong track record, has stated she will continue her current role and not seek the presidency.
- Governor J.B. Pritzker: The Illinois governor and billionaire philanthropist has been mentioned as a potential nominee due to his self-funding capabilities.
- Governor Andy Beshear: Beshear, who has gained popularity in a traditionally red state, could appeal to a broader electorate.
- Governor Wes Moore: Maryland’s youngest governor and only Black governor has been a rising star, though he has committed to supporting Harris.
- Senator Amy Klobuchar: Klobuchar, who previously ran in the 2020 primaries, has endorsed Harris and praised her leadership.
- Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg: Buttigieg, a former presidential candidate, is supportive of Harris and continues to be active in the administration.
- Governor Josh Shapiro: Shapiro, known for his victory in a key battleground state, has also endorsed Harris.
- Senator Raphael Warnock: Warnock, who helped solidify the Democratic Senate majority, remains a notable figure.
- Governor Jared Polis: Polis, known for his popularity and experience, might be a potential running mate for Harris.
- Governor Roy Cooper: Cooper has been suggested as a possible vice-presidential pick and has voiced strong support for Harris.
ALSO READ: “Joe Biden Withdraws from Race, Endorses Kamala Harris: Harris Expresses Gratitude”
While Michelle Obama remains a highly discussed figure in political circles, she has not expressed any intention to run for office. Many speculate that her potential candidacy could be a game-changer in the election, but as of now, she is not officially in the race. This makes her a “hypothetical candidate” whose involvement could significantly impact the dynamics of the presidential race, but her participation remains uncertain.
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