Leading Democrats swiftly praised Joe Biden on Sunday after his historic decision to end his reelection bid, while Republicans angrily demanded his immediate resignation.
From former presidents to current lawmakers, Biden’s party united around him as he passed the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris, endorsing her to take on Donald Trump.
In a joint statement, Bill and Hillary Clinton expressed gratitude for Biden’s accomplishments and voiced their support for Harris. “Now is the time to support Kamala Harris and fight with everything we’ve got to elect her. America’s future depends on it,” they said.
Barack Obama, who chose Biden as his running mate in 2008, called him a “patriot of the highest order” but warned of uncertain times ahead, stopping short of endorsing Harris. “I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges,” he stated.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has significant influence among Democrats and reportedly encouraged Biden to step down, called him “a patriotic American who has always put our country first.” She praised his leadership and legacy, expressing “love and gratitude.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who both had private meetings with Biden last weekend, also commended him. Jeffries called Biden “one of the most accomplished and consequential leaders in American history.” Schumer highlighted Biden’s dedication to the country, saying, “His decision was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.”
Neither Schumer nor Jeffries mentioned Harris or the next steps for Democrats, with the nominating convention less than a month away.
Republicans, including Trump, harshly criticized Biden’s presidency and demanded his resignation. Trump declared on his Truth Social network, “Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for President, and is certainly not fit to serve — And never was!… We will remedy the damage he has done very quickly. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
House Speaker Mike Johnson echoed these sentiments, stating, “If Joe Biden is not fit to run for president, he is not fit to serve as president. He must resign the office immediately. November 5 cannot arrive soon enough.”
