"It is an honor for me to have the support of the President, and my goal is to secure this nomination," wrote Kamala Harris, 59, current Vice President of the United States, on X. This statement came in response to the confidence placed in her by President Joe Biden after he announced his withdrawal from the presidential race.
Earlier, the U.S. President issued a statement declaring his intention to step down from the race for the Democratic Party nomination for the upcoming November 5th elections. "Fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term," Biden stated in a message posted on his personal X account.
However, before any further speculation, the President made his support for Harris clear. "Today, I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be our party's candidate this year. Democrats: it’s time to unite and defeat Trump. Let's do it," Biden declared.
In addition to expressing her gratitude to the President, Harris also acknowledged Biden's years of service. "On behalf of the American people, I thank Joe Biden for his extraordinary leadership as President of the United States and for his decades of service to our country," Harris said.
The brief message concluded with Harris's commitment to do everything in her power "to unite the Democratic Party—and our nation—to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme agenda of Project 2025."
Potential Democratic Contenders
While Harris has the support of President Biden, her nomination must still pass through several processes, including surpassing other potential contenders. Although her national recognition and the potential to continue with Biden's campaign funds if she shares the ballot with him are advantages, other names are also emerging within the Democratic lobby.
Among these potential candidates are the governors of California, Gavin Newsom; Illinois, J. B. Pritzker; Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer; Colorado, Jared Polis; and Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro.
The Democratic National Convention, which begins on August 19, could unfold in two ways: either a pre-agreed candidate will make the event a mere formality, or several potential successors will force a vote, which will continue until a majority is achieved and Biden's successor is designated.
As the first African American (of Asian and Caribbean descent) to be elected senator from California since 2016 and a former attorney general of the state, Harris was seen by political experts as the fresh air needed in the Democratic candidacy in 2020. Her presence brought millions of votes, making Biden the most voted-for president in U.S. history.
Born in Oakland on October 20, 1964, Harris studied Law and Political Science at Howard University and the Hastings College of the Law at the University of California. Due to her age, profile, and preparation, she was seen as the next presidential candidate, especially when Biden, at the start of his term, was considered a transitional president who would not seek re-election.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kamala Harris and the Democratic Nomination
Given the recent developments in the Democratic Party and Kamala Harris's bid for the nomination, here are some frequently asked questions that provide more insight into the situation.
Why did Joe Biden withdraw from the presidential race?
Joe Biden decided to withdraw from the race to focus all his energies on his presidential duties for the remainder of his term.
Who are the other potential Democratic candidates?
Other potential candidates include governors Gavin Newsom (California), J. B. Pritzker (Illinois), Gretchen Whitmer (Michigan), Jared Polis (Colorado), and Josh Shapiro (Pennsylvania).
What are Kamala Harris's qualifications for the presidency?
Kamala Harris has a background in law and political science, having studied at Howard University and the Hastings College of the Law. She has served as a senator and attorney general of California, and she is currently the Vice President of the United States.
When and where will the Democratic National Convention take place?
The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to begin on August 19.