Leading Democrats are rallying behind Vice President Kamala Harris as the preferred nominee to replace President Biden in the 2024 race, following his decision to withdraw from the campaign. CBS News reported that several notable endorsements have been made, bolstering her position as the front-runner for the Democratic nomination.
President Joe Biden recently announced he would not be running for re-election in 2024. In a public statement, he offered his full support to Vice President Kamala Harris, labeling her selection as his running mate in 2020 "the best decision" he's made.
Biden's endorsement marks the official start of Harris's journey to become the Democratic nominee for president.
The Democratic National Convention, which is slated to begin virtually on August 19, will be the platform where the final nominee is chosen. Harris finds herself at the center of a growing wave of endorsements from prominent Democratic figures.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi expressed her enthusiastic support for Harris, crediting her as a champion for working families and women's rights. Pelosi emphasized Harris’s strong values, faith, and commitment to public service. She believes Harris is brilliantly astute in politics and will lead the party to victory in November.
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also threw their weight behind Harris. Acknowledging President Biden's achievements, the Clintons stressed the importance of supporting Harris to prevent a second Trump term. Hillary Clinton highlighted Harris's ability to lead the nation and counteract Trump's agenda.
Senator Elizabeth Warren also endorsed Harris, underscoring her role as a national leader who has safeguarded consumers and protected access to abortion. Warren believes Harris’s experience as a prosecutor will aid in pressing a strong case against Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
Prominent figures like Representative Jim Clyburn, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg have also joined the chorus of endorsements. Newsom described Harris as tough, fearless, and tenacious. He emphasized that Harris is well-equipped to guide the country toward a healthier future and challenge Trump’s vision.
In a similar vein, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear hailed Biden's difficult decision to step aside as a strategic move that will secure his legacy. Beshear expressed excitement in endorsing Harris, praising her intelligence and strength, which he believes will make her an effective president.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the slew of endorsements. Pritzker, after discussions with fellow Democratic leaders, voiced his belief in Harris’s skills, strength, and vision to better Americans' lives. Whitmer also sees Harris as a unifying figure for the party and capable of taking on Trump.
Further support came from Senators Patty Murray and Amy Klobuchar. Klobuchar lauded Harris’s leadership abilities and her deep understanding of the work required. Additionally, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs and Representative Pramila Jayapal have thrown their support behind Harris, with Jayapal being particularly enthusiastic.
Notably, the Congressional Black Caucus PAC (CBCPAC) and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus have endorsed Harris. CBCPAC praised her role in significant accomplishments over the past three and a half years, while Representative Nanette Barragán from the Hispanic Caucus indicated her support as well.
Among the more public figures, actor and Democratic fundraiser George Clooney has also publicly endorsed Harris. Clooney’s endorsement adds a layer of celebrity support to Harris’s campaign.
While the support for Harris is widespread, some notable Democrats have yet to endorse her. Former President Barack Obama, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries are among them. Obama praised President Biden but did not mention Harris in his statement. Schumer and Jeffries released a joint statement that commended Harris and highlighted her promise to pursue the nomination.
Jeffries did indicate his plans to endorse Harris soon, signaling potential forthcoming support. Meanwhile, Harris herself remains committed to "earn and win" the Democratic presidential nomination. She emphasized her travels across the country and discussions with Americans about the critical choice in the upcoming election.
As endorsements continue to flood in, Harris's rhetoric has focused on unity. She aims to unite the Democratic Party and the nation to defeat Donald Trump and his Project 2025 agenda. Harris's commitment to this cause remains steadfast as she prepares for the months ahead leading up to the Democratic National Convention and the subsequent election.
In conclusion, the Democratic landscape is rapidly shaping up around Vice President Kamala Harris as the potential front-runner for the 2024 Presidential race.
With robust endorsements from significant figures, Harris is poised to lead the Democratic party.
However, key endorsements still pending could further solidify her campaign as the party moves towards its pivotal convention in August.
