Democrats Rally Behind Harris Following Biden's Departure

Democrats Rally Behind Harris Following Biden's Departure

Yesterday, Democrats swiftly united around Vice-President Kamala Harris as she hurried to secure the party's nomination to challenge Donald Trump in November, following President Joe Biden's dramatic exit from the race. With Biden's endorsement, the 59-year-old garnered significant support from Democratic leaders on her first full day of campaigning. 

Harris received crucial backing from Democratic heavyweight Nancy Pelosi, the former US House speaker and a key figure in Biden's departure. “With immense pride and limitless optimism for our country’s future, I endorse Vice-President Kamala Harris for President of the United States,” Pelosi, 84, stated in a message on X. “I have full confidence that she will lead us to victory in November.”

Earlier, several influential governors, including those once considered potential presidential candidates, announced their support. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, along with the governors of Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, expressed their support. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear also declared his backing, positioning himself as a potential vice-presidential running mate for Harris. 

Harris also gained the support of California Governor Gavin Newsom and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, both of whom were seen as top presidential contenders. However, she still needs to persuade key holdouts and convince some donors advocating for an open contest to select the Democratic candidate to face Republican challenger Donald Trump.

Among the prominent figures to endorse Harris was LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, who wrote on social media: “I wholeheartedly support Kamala Harris and her candidacy for President of the United States in our fight for democracy in November.” Harris still needs to secure support from key holdouts to clinch the nomination, which could happen as early as August 1.