Joe Biden ends election campaign, says it's been 'greatest honour' to serve as US president
- Jordan Graham
- Jul 21, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: Jul 22, 2024
Live Reporting
23:30 Blinken Vows to Support Remainder of Biden's Presidency
Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed his pride and commitment to President Joe Biden in a heartfelt message on X. Blinken, who has worked alongside Biden for the past 22 years, described his tenure as "the honor of my life."
In his post, Blinken praised Biden for restoring US leadership on the global stage and achieving historic accomplishments during his presidency. He emphasized his dedication to continuing this work alongside Biden over the next six months, aiming to build on their shared successes.
"It's been a remarkable journey, and I look forward to what we can achieve together in the remaining months of his term," Blinken concluded.
22:15 Who is Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris, recently endorsed by Joe Biden as the Democratic pick for presidential nominee, has a groundbreaking political career. As vice-president of the US, Harris made history as the first woman and the first black person to serve as California's attorney general, the top lawyer, and law enforcement official in the nation's most populous state.
Harris earned a reputation as one of the Democratic Party's rising stars. She was elected as California's junior US senator in 2017 before aiming for the presidential nomination in 2020. Despite her strong debate performances, she struggled with articulating clear policies.
Biden revitalized her national prominence by choosing her as his vice-presidential candidate for the 2020 election. After their victory, Harris spearheaded several initiatives, playing a crucial role in the administration's successes. Notably, she launched a nationwide "Fight for Reproductive Freedoms" tour, highlighting the harms of abortion bans and urging Congress to restore Roe v. Wade protections.
While she initially struggled to gain widespread appeal, recent speculation about Biden's future has bolstered her support base, positioning her as a key figure in the Democratic Party's future.
22:03 Biden Steps Aside – Six Things You Need to Know
There's been a whirlwind of reactions from across the US and around the globe following Joe Biden's announcement to end his campaign for re-election. Here’s a quick rundown of the latest developments:
Biden Endorses Harris: President Biden has thrown his support behind Vice-President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic candidate for the upcoming November election. Harris praised his move as a "selfless and patriotic act."
Decision for the Greater Good: Biden stated that his decision was made "in the best interest of my party and the country." He has promised to provide more details when he addresses the nation later this week.
Pressure from Within: Biden faced significant pressure from his fellow Democrats following a shaky debate performance against Donald Trump in late June. Trump, never one to mince words, claimed Biden is "not fit to serve."
Support from Obama: Former President Barack Obama, under whom Biden served as vice-president, called him a "patriot of the highest order." Obama, along with other top Democrats like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, reportedly voiced concerns about Biden's re-election prospects.
Calls for Resignation: Some Republicans, including current House Speaker Mike Johnson, suggested that Biden should resign immediately, arguing that if he’s not fit to run, he’s not fit to serve.
Global Praise: Biden’s decision has also been lauded by political allies and leaders from the West. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer commended Biden for making a tough decision "in the best interests of the American people."
Stay tuned as the political landscape continues to evolve with these major shifts.
21:07 We Will Win - Harris
Vice-President Kamala Harris, now with President Biden's blessing to snag the Democratic nomination, has shared an electrifying update.
She declares: "I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party—and unite our nation—to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda."
Revving up the engines for the political showdown, she adds, "We have 107 days until election day. Together, we will fight. And together, we will win."
20:58 Obama Salutes One of America's 'Most Consequential Presidents'
Barack Obama has paid tribute to Joe Biden following his announcement to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race.
In a heartfelt post on X, Obama describes Biden as “one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me.”
Obama further praises Biden, noting, “Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order.”
Obama, who appointed Biden as his Vice President during his own administration, has reportedly been among those senior Democrats advising Biden to reassess his position amid growing pressures.
20:49 Sunak Praises Biden’s Dedication to Service
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also shared his thoughts in a recent tweet, Sunak commends Biden’s commitment to public service, stating, “While working with President Biden, I saw first-hand his love for America and dedication to service.”
Sunak highlights their collaborative successes, including the Aukus security pact, unwavering support for Israel, and joint efforts to combat threats from Houthi forces.
He concludes with well-wishes for Biden, saying, “I wish him all the best.”
20:37 Pelosi: Biden Always Put America First
In the wake of President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has weighed in with a heartfelt tribute.
In a recent post on X, Pelosi lauds Biden as "a patriotic American who has always put our country first." She praises his tenure as "one of the most consequential presidencies in American history," aligning with sentiments expressed by other prominent Democrats.
Pelosi’s remarks come as a notable acknowledgment of Biden’s achievements, amidst the party’s shifting dynamics. Last week, Pelosi reportedly provided Biden with data suggesting a challenging path to re-election, which may have contributed to his decision to step aside.
As Biden prepares to address the nation, Pelosi’s tribute underscores the significant impact of his presidency and his commitment to the country.
20:32 Four Candidates Who Could Replace Biden
As President Joe Biden steps aside from the 2024 presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris has received his endorsement as the likely Democratic nominee. However, this endorsement doesn’t seal the deal, and the party's nomination process is far from over.
Here’s a look at four key figures who could potentially step into the spotlight as Biden’s successor:
1. Kamala Harris
Biden's current vice president, Harris, has been officially endorsed by Biden himself. She’s seen as a natural choice, given her current role and experience. But will she secure the nomination, or will other contenders make a strong case?
2. Gavin Newsom
The Governor of California, Newsom has been mentioned frequently as a potential replacement. Known for his progressive policies and high profile in Democratic circles, he could emerge as a formidable candidate if the nomination process opens up.
3. Elizabeth Warren
The Massachusetts Senator and former presidential contender could make another run for the top job. With her track record of championing progressive causes and financial reform, she remains a strong contender in the Democratic landscape.
4. Pete Buttigieg
The Secretary of Transportation and former presidential candidate, Buttigieg, has been a rising star in the party. His experience in the Biden administration and his appeal to younger voters make him a potential candidate for the Democratic nomination.
As the party navigates this unexpected turn of events, all eyes will be on how these potential candidates position themselves in the coming days.
20:19 Biden to Address the Nation Later This Week
In his recent announcement, President Joe Biden has pledged to provide more details about his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race in a national address later this week.
While Biden has been isolating due to Covid-19, he has promised a more comprehensive explanation of his decision when he speaks to the country in the coming days. Stay tuned for further updates as we await his address.
20:03 Biden One of History's Most Impactful Presidents, Says Newsom
California Governor Gavin Newsom has lauded President Joe Biden as "one of the most impactful and selfless presidents" in U.S. history. In a post on X, Newsom praised Biden for his relentless fight for working people and the “astonishing results” achieved for all Americans. Newsom, a prominent Democrat whose name has been mentioned as a potential successor to Biden, emphasized the significant achievements of the current administration and highlighted Biden's dedication to improving the nation.
19:46 Biden Must Resign Now, Says House Speaker
Reaction is pouring in from across the political spectrum, including a sharp rebuke from House Speaker Mike Johnson.
In a post on X, Johnson asserted, “If Joe Biden is not fit to run for president, he is not fit to serve as president.” He called for Biden to “resign the office immediately,” emphasising that the upcoming U.S. election on November 5th “cannot arrive soon enough.”
19:45 Biden a Great Friend to the UK – James Cleverly
Britain's former foreign secretary, James Cleverly, has expressed his gratitude to President Joe Biden for being a "great friend to the UK".
In a post on X, the Conservative shadow home secretary thanked Biden and reflected on their meetings during Biden's trips to Britain. Cleverly fondly recalled their encounter while signing the book of condolence for the late Queen Elizabeth II, highlighting the pleasure it was to meet Biden as foreign secretary.
19:43 Biden's Statement in Full
Let's bring you Joe Biden's full statement pulling out of the race for the White House, which he posted on X a short time ago:
"My Fellow Americans,
Over the past three-and-a-half years, we have made great progress as a nation. Today, America has the strongest economy in the world. We've made historic investments in rebuilding our nation, in lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, and in expanding affordable health care to a record number of Americans.
We've provided critically needed care to a million veterans exposed to toxic substances. Passed the first gun safety law in 30 years. Appointed the first African American woman to the Supreme Court. And passed the most significant climate legislation in the history of the world. America has never been better positioned to lead than we are today.
I know none of this could have been done without you, the American people. Together, we overcame a once-in-a-century pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We've protected and preserved our democracy. And we've revitalized and strengthened our alliances around the world.
It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.
I will speak to the nation later this week in more detail about my decision. For now, let me express my deepest gratitude to all those who have worked so hard to see me re-elected.
I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for being an extraordinary partner in all this work. And let me express my heartfelt appreciation to the American people for the faith and trust you have placed in me.
I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can't do - when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America."
19:39 Biden Not Capable of Being President, Trump Says
In the last few moments, Donald Trump has reacted to Joe Biden's decision to pull out of the presidential race, posting on his platform Truth Social:
"Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for president, and is certainly not fit to serve - and never was!"
"He only attained the position of President by lies, Fake News, and not leaving his Basement."
"All those around him, including his Doctor and the Media, knew that he wasn’t capable of being President, and he wasn’t."
"We will suffer greatly because of his presidency, but we will remedy the damage he has done very quickly. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!"
19:33 Biden to Stay on as President for Rest of Term
More from Biden's statement now.
Despite dropping out of the presidential race, President Joe Biden will remain in the White House for the final six months of his term.
"I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as president for the remainder of my term," he writes.
As a reminder, the US presidential election is on 5 November - the winner serves four years.
19:31 Biden Puts Country First - Schumer
Democrat Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praises President Joe Biden as a "true patriot and great American" following Biden's announcement to step down from the 2024 presidential race. In a post on X, Schumer writes:
"Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader but he's a truly amazing human being. His decision of course was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first."
19:21 Joe Biden's endorsement on Kamala Harris
Here's President Joe Biden's statement on Kamala Harris in full, posted on X moments ago:
My 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.
My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump.
Let’s do this.
19:18 Biden endorses Kamala Harris
In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden has announced his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential race. This announcement was made in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this," Biden wrote.
This endorsement comes on the heels of Biden's decision to step down from the race, following a shaky debate performance and growing concerns over his ability to lead.
19:08 What next?
With Biden stepping down, the Democrats must now select a new nominee. Originally, a roll-call vote was planned for after August 1 to officially nominate Biden, but this is likely to be cancelled. The Democratic National Convention is set for Chicago from Monday, August 19 through Thursday, August 22. Biden had dominated the primaries, ensuring that the delegates from each state were committed to supporting him. Now, these delegates will be free to vote for a different candidate. The exact process for selecting the new nominee remains unclear, but President Biden has expressed confidence that Vice-President Kamala Harris is the right person for the job.
19:02 Biden withdraws from 2024 election race
US President Joe Biden has announced that he will end his candidacy for re-election, upending the race for the White House four months before Americans go to the polls in November. The decision comes after weeks of intense pressure from fellow Democrats following a stumbling and sometimes incoherent debate performance against Republican Donald Trump at the end of June. The 81-year-old had resisted calls to step aside even as concerns over his mental fitness and capacity to beat Trump mounted. The announcement paves the way for another Democrat to become the party’s presidential candidate, with Vice-President Kamala Harris the most likely successor. He will remain president until January, when the winner of the 2024 election will take office.
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