Transition of Power: Biden's Legacy and Harris's Future
President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that he will end his presidential re-election campaign, concluding his half-century-long political career and creating uncertainty in the race for the White House, less than four months before Election Day.
In his letter to the nation, Biden highlighted the progress made over the past three and a half years. Under his leadership, America boasts the strongest economy in the world, with historic investments in infrastructure, lower prescription drug costs for seniors, expanded affordable health care, and critical care for veterans. His administration passed the first gun safety law in 30 years, appointed the first African American woman to the Supreme Court, and enacted significant climate legislation. Biden emphasized that these achievements were made possible by the collective effort of the American people.
Biden thanked Vice President Kamala Harris for being an extraordinary partner and endorsed her as the party’s nominee. "My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President," Biden posted. "And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year."
Since Biden’s endorsement, Harris' campaign has raised nearly $50 million in grassroots donations. Harris, the first woman, Black person, and Asian American to serve as vice president, now has the chance to become the country’s first female president. She quickly garnered endorsements from top Democrats, including lawmakers, governors, and key interest groups. However, some lawmakers are calling for a more open nomination process.
The Democratic National Convention, set for August 19-22 in Chicago, will be a pivotal event where the party will officially select the nominee and the vice-presidential candidate. A major TV event, coupled with this historic decision, can bring the urgency and media necessary for Democrats to mobilize and unify the Big Tent Democratic Party against Trump.
According to reports, 33 states abide by party rules by default when changing nominees, but this could pose legal challenges as Democrats put together a new ticket. House Speaker Mike Johnson has hinted at potential legal challenges in some states, according to Politico. Biden’s endorsement of Harris is not binding, as Democratic Party rules don’t allow him to simply select a successor when delegates gather in Chicago.
NBC News reports that Biden won 3,900 delegates during the primaries, giving him a majority of committed delegates. Biden would have to release those delegates to allow for the nominating process to play out in Chicago. Delegates released by Biden can vote for any candidate they choose. A majority of the delegates must support one candidate on the first vote. If not, a second round of voting with superdelegates, who aren't pledged to any candidate, will occur.
Donald Trump's campaign is preparing a major effort to attack Harris, focusing on her vulnerabilities in a general election. The Trump team assumes that bypassing the first Black woman to serve as vice president could deepen divisions within the Democratic Party and risk alienating their base of Black voters.
President Biden should be remembered as one of our great leaders, having guided the nation through significant challenges, including a global pandemic and an economic crisis. His legacy includes achievements that have strengthened the economy, enhanced infrastructure, promoted social justice, and advanced climate action. As Biden stated, "Democrats — it's time to come together and beat Trump. Let's do this."