President Joe Biden may have endorsed his vice president to replace him in November, but the country’s top Democrats have yet to throw their weight behind her.
Biden sent shockwaves through Washington when he announced Sunday that he would not seek re-election in November, quickly throwing his weight behind Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place.
But prominent Democrats, including former President Barack Obama, conspicuously omitted Harris from their endorsements of the president, seemingly leaving the door open for another potential candidate.
“America is a better place today because President Joe Biden led us with intellect, grace, and dignity. We are forever grateful,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement that did not mention Harris.
Harris confirmed in her own statement that she would run for the nomination.
“I am honored to have the President’s support and it is my intention to earn and win this nomination.”
“America is a better place today because President Joe Biden led us with intellect, grace, and dignity. We are forever grateful,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement that did not mention Vice President Kamala Harris.
“Over the past year, I have traveled across the country, speaking to Americans about the clear choice in this momentous election. And that is what I will continue to do in the days and weeks ahead. I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party — and unite our nation — to defeat Donald Trump.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement: “Joe Biden is not only a great president and a great legislative leader, but he is also a truly great human being. His decision was not easy, of course, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.”
“Joe, today proves that you are a true patriot and a great American.”
Bill and Hillary Clinton backed Harris in a statement after Biden did so.
But President Barack Obama and Michelle didn’t mention her, saying Democrats “will navigate uncharted waters in the days ahead.”
“But I have every confidence that the leaders of our party can begin a process that will produce an excellent candidate,” the Obamas said Sunday.
In a fawning tribute to her old friend, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Harris was also not mentioned at all.
“President Joe Biden is a patriotic American who has always put our country first. His legacy of vision, values and leadership make him one of the most influential presidents in American history.”
It’s unclear whether these top Democrats want to give Biden his moment after what was undoubtedly one of the toughest decisions of his life, or whether they have doubts about Harris’s viability as a candidate.
Jaime Harrison, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, where a candidate will be formally nominated, did not mention Harris in his own statement.
He promised to provide more information on what the nomination process would look like soon. The Democratic National Convention is less than a month away, starting on August 19.
“Our representatives are prepared to take seriously their responsibility to deliver a nominee quickly,” he said. “Soon, the American people will hear from the Democratic Party about the next steps and the path forward for the nomination process.”
DNC officials privately spoken to by DailyMail.com declined to comment on who the nominee should be, in order not to preempt internal discussions. They did say, however, that in the meantime they would focus on securing the resources to take on Trump.
Rep. Jim Clyburn, R-S.C., an influential Black Democrat who led Biden to victory in 2020, said he would support Harris to replace the president.
Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat who ran a tough reelection race in Wisconsin in November, did the same. “Today, I am proud to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States.”
Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), a key Biden ally, also endorsed Harris.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement: “Joe Biden is not only a great president and a great legislative leader, but he is also a truly great human being.”
President Joe Biden may have endorsed his vice president to replace him in November, but the nation’s top elected Democrats have yet to throw their weight behind her
“Democrats must unite immediately so we can focus on winning in November,” Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the co-chair of the House Progressive Caucus, wrote on X. “I look forward to casting my vote for Kamala Harris and doing everything I can to ensure she is our next president.”
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairwoman Rep. Nanette Barragan endorsed Harris on Sunday.
“I stand with you (Biden) — I endorse (Harris) as our Democratic nominee and will work tirelessly to ensure she is our next president in November. Thank you, Mr. President, for your lifetime of service to this country and the American people.”
The Congressional Black Caucus, led by Reps. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) and Steven Horsford (D-Nevada), also threw its weight behind Harris, as did the Asian and Pacific American Caucus.