President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the presidential race on Sunday, after facing a monthlong pressure campaign from Democratic leaders and donors. In a letter posted on X, Biden expressed that serving as President has been the greatest honor of his life, but believed stepping down was in the best interest of his party and the country. He indicated he would address the nation later in the week to discuss his decision in more detail.
The letter did not specify how the Democratic Party would choose its next candidate, but Biden offered his full support and endorsement to Vice President Kamala Harris, calling her an extraordinary partner. Harris, if she assumes the candidacy, would potentially control the campaign’s substantial $240 million war chest. Prominent figures, including Nancy Pelosi, have supported an open nomination process.
Joe Biden
Biden’s decision followed a tumultuous three-week period beginning with a debate against Republican nominee Donald Trump, where Biden’s age and physical condition became focal points. His performance, perceived as incoherent at times, spurred calls for his resignation from donors, media editorial boards, and elected officials. Influential donors like Laurene Powell Jobs and Ron Conway began discussing Biden’s replacement options.
Pressure from within the Democratic Party grew as leaders such as Nancy Pelosi and Jim Clyburn publicly questioned Biden’s fitness for office. Concerns about the impact of Biden’s candidacy on down-ballot elections were voiced by prominent figures like Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries.
This internal dissent, coupled with deteriorating polling numbers, led to a direct confrontation where Pelosi and Schumer reportedly advised Biden that his path to reelection was untenable.
Despite a brief lull in the revolt following an assassination attempt on Trump, the pressure resumed, highlighting Biden’s dwindling political support.
The Democratic candidate will now face a revitalized Republican Party, buoyed by its populist wing and Silicon Valley allies, with J.D. Vance positioned as Trump’s vice president. Biden’s departure marks a significant shift in the upcoming election landscape, as he thanked those who supported his campaign efforts.
