A possible historic nominee: Harris said she’s “honored” to receive Biden’s endorsement and vowed to “earn and win” the nomination. Harris could be the first Black woman and first Asian American to lead the ticket of a major political party. In a move that would give her access to the campaign funds, the Biden-Harris campaign amended filings with the Federal Election Commission to rename its principal committee and declare Harris a candidate for president.
What happens next: Despite Biden’s backing, it remains unclear whether Harris will become the nominee, or what process the party will take to select an alternative. In addition, sources close to Sen. Joe Manchin, a West Virginia independent, said he’s considering re-registering as a Democrat and throwing his hat into the ring to run for president.
Trump reacts: In a phone call with CNN after Biden announced his exit, Trump described Biden as “the worst president by far in the history of our country.” The former president issued a fundraising appeal in a message to supporters.
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Harris for President campaign touts endorsements from Democratic officials
From CNN's Ebony Davis
The Harris for President campaign touted the recent endorsements of Kamala Harris that have poured in from Democratic elected officials in a news release Sunday night, citing “Overwhelming support for VP Harris from every corner of the country.”
The campaign reiterated that Harris “will do everything in [her] power to unite the Democratic Party—and unite our nation—to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda.”
CNN has been able to identify more than 500 endorsements for Harris from Democratic delegates as of early Monday.
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Here are the latest Democratic delegate estimates after Biden's withdrawal
From CNN's Ethan Cohen, Molly English, Matt Holt and Sydney Topf
CNN has so far been able to identify more than 500 endorsements for Vice President Kamala Harris from Democratic delegates.
That number will continue to grow, both as more delegates come out in support of the vice president and as we continue to work our way through the roughly 4,700 total delegates to the Democratic National Convention to be held in August in Chicago.
The count includes around 290 pledged delegates, and more than 220 automatic delegates (also known as superdelegates).
These endorsements are not binding. And, with President Joe Biden out of the race, delegates are free to vote for the candidate of their choice.
What happens now? The number of delegates a candidate will need to win the nomination will depend on if superdelegates will be allowed to vote on the first ballot, something which remains an open question.
If superdelegates aren’t allowed to vote on the first ballot, winning the nomination would require 1,976 pledged delegate votes. If they are allowed to vote, it would require roughly 2,350 votes (the number of superdelegates can shift over time).
CNN’s count comes from public statements of support from delegates and state delegations, CNN reporting and conversations with delegates.
With previous reporting from CNN’s Arit John, Greg Krieg and Aaron Pellish.
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Democratic Convention Rules Committee to discuss nomination framework on Wednesday
From CNN's Ethan Cohen
The Democratic committee that will determine the rules for the party’s nomination will meet again on Wednesday afternoon, the committee’s co-chairs have announced.
“It is now the Committee’s responsibility to implement a framework to select a new nominee, which will be open, transparent, fair, and orderly,” said co-chairs Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and longtime Democratic operative Leah Daughtry.
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How Harris is preparing to contrast her record as a prosecutor with Trump’s as a felon
From CNN's Edward-Isaac Dovere
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris attends the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center on July 10, in Dallas, Texas.
Brandon Bell/Getty Images
Kamala Harris has spent much more of her life as a prosecutor than as a senator or vice president – and that is exactly how she is now going to run against Donald Trump.
In sessions quietly underway at the Naval Observatory even before Joe Biden’s disastrous debate, Harris and her inner circle had already landed on the plan to look past whoever Trump picked as his running mate and focus almost exclusively on the former president.
The vice president had expected that to be part of her role in making the case for Biden. But it became clearer and clearer over the last month that she was likely going to make the case for herself.
Now that Biden has stepped aside — and with even more of her potential opponents planning to endorse her by the end of the day Monday — over a dozen advisers and close allies told CNN they think her candidacy will lean heavily on her background as a district attorney, attorney general and cross-examiner in Senate hearings.
It is simple, they say: prosecutor versus felon.
The strategy will be a return to the “prosecutor for president” framework of her 2020 presidential campaign, which included her slogan taken from her days standing up in court as a young assistant district attorney: “Kamala Harris, for the people.”
In those days, her team was stretching the rhetoric. But this year, the GOP nominee has been found guilty in a New York hush money trial, liable for battery in a civil case, and faces two other criminal cases related to subverting the 2020 election.
@BidenHQ, the social media rapid response account on X for the Biden-Harris campaign, has officially been rebranded to @KamalaHQ, in another sign of how the Biden team has quickly shifted to its new task ahead.
Welcome to Kamala HQ.
This is the official rapid response page of Vice President Harris’ presidential campaign.
Trump’s team is already on the attack against Harris
From CNN's Steve Contorno, Kristen Holmes, Alayna Treene and Kate Sullivan
Top advisers to Donald Trump began the early plotting for the extraordinary potential scenario of President Joe Biden stepping aside soon after the June 27 presidential debate.
They studied up on the field of potential Democratic contenders, polled Trump against a would-be replacement and began soft launching more attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, believing her to be the most likely heir-apparent.
Now, with Biden announcing he won’t run for reelection, the seeds of that work are already on display. Within hours of Biden dropping out of the race and endorsing his vice president on Sunday, Trump’s campaign managers had released a blistering statement tying Harris to the administration’s policies. Meanwhile, an aligned super PAC has reserved airtime in a handful of swing states to try to define Harris to impressionable voters as someone who enabled a clearly diminished Biden.
Kentucky Gov. Beshear spoke with Harris today, source says
From CNN's Daniel Strauss
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear speaks during an interview at the Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort, Kentucky, on June 6.
Timothy D. Easley/AP
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear spoke with Vice President Kamala Harris on Sunday, according to a source with knowledge of the call, after President Joe Biden announced he was discontinuing his presidential campaign.
Beshear congratulated Harris in a statement but did not publicly endorse her. Later on Sunday, he tweeted that he would be on MSNBC’s Morning Joe on Monday.
CNN previously reported that some top Democrats hoped there would be an open race for Harris’ running mate, with a focus on leading Democratic governors, notably Beshear and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper. Others mentioned include Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Gov. J.B. Pritzker of Illinois and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota.
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Inside Biden's historic decision to end his reelection campaign
From CNN's Jeremy Herb, MJ Lee, Phil Mattingly, Arlette Saenz and Priscilla Alvarez
After weeks of fighting for his political life – insisting he wasn’t going anywhere following a disastrous debate performance – the president’s about-face did not come in an Oval Office address or a speech on the campaign trail. Instead, it came in letter posted to social media as he recovered from Covid-19 at his beach house in Delaware.
It was a low-key way to reveal one of the most historic decisions in modern American politics, but time was not on Biden’s side to reach a decision. Never before has a president left a reelection race this close to Election Day – and for 24 days it seemed as if he were stubbornly planning to ride out the storm that followed the June 27 CNN debate in Atlanta.
He spent the three weeks after the debate repeating that he was staying in the race against former President Donald Trump. The president dug in. His inner circle shrank to his closest aides and family. He was forced to retreat to Delaware, where he reached a decision in the last day and a half, finally conceding that a man loyal to the Democratic Party for more than half a century was seen as a drag on the ticket.
But in the end, the pressure on Biden from party leaders, rank-and-file lawmakers and donors ultimately proved too much. Described as being more isolated than he had ever been, Biden could not withstand the push behind the scenes and in public.
The president’s team wanted the June CNN debate with Trump – months earlier than typical presidential debates – to shake up a race that Biden was trailing. They succeeded, but not in the way they had intended.
Biden’s final decision to leave the race was reached in the last 48 hours, a senior campaign adviser said, as he consulted family and top advisers by phone while recovering from his illness. A source familiar with the matter said the plans to exit the race began Saturday night and were finalized Sunday.
The adviser said the president “was not dug in” but was studying the data and became convinced he would “weigh down” the ticket and be a complication to defeat Trump.
Michigan Gov. Whitmer calls Biden "great public servant" and reiterates call to defeat Trump
From CNN's Phil Mattingly, Betsy Klein and Ali Main
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer attends a summit in National Harbor, Maryland, on May 4.
Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer thanked President Joe Biden in a social media post moments after he announced he would not seek reelection in 2024. Whitmer also said her role in the election “will remain the same: doing everything I can to elect Democrats and stop Donald Trump,” she wrote in an X post.
Whitmer said Trump’s agenda of “raising families’ costs, banning abortion nationwide, and abusing the power of the White House to settle his own scores is completely wrong for Michigan.”
Whitmer also joined a call for Harris for President campaign staff on Sunday evening, according to three sources with direct knowledge of the call.
On the call with all Michigan campaign staff, Whitmer said her job remains the same – to make sure Trump doesn’t get back in the White House.
The governor has not yet publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris and hasn’t weighed in on Biden’s endorsement of his vice president.
CNN has reached out to a spokesperson for Whitmer about the call and her reaction to Biden backing Harris.
The post was updated with details of Whitmer joining a campaign staff call Sunday night.
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Harris spoke with top Senate campaign leader Sen. Gary Peters
From CNN's Daniel Strauss
Vice President Kamala Harris spoke with Sen. Gary Peters, the head of Senate Democrats’ campaign arm Sunday evening, according to a source with knowledge of the call, a few hours after President Joe Biden announced he would not continue his presidential campaign.
That announcement triggered a wave of congressional Democrats as well as Democratic governors to throw their support behind Harris for president. Biden himself endorsed Harris to become the Democratic nominee.
Peters is the junior senator from Michigan, a battleground state that Democrats have recently worried is quickly slipping away from them and into Republican hands for the presidential election.
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Thousands of Black women join call to rally around Harris
From CNN's Eva McKend
Donna Brazile at the Supreme Court, in Hart Building on April 4, 2022.
Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images
Thousands of Black women from across the country held a call Sunday evening to discuss the path forward to support Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed her.
Win With Black Women periodically holds Zoom calls, but this one had a different tone and tenor given Biden’s announcement and subsequent endorsement of Harris.
Longtime Democratic operative Donna Brazile said that she was in the process of gathering delegates to support Harris. “I need all of you to sign your delegate pledge forms now,” said Brazile on the call. She said voter registration and fundraising will be key in the days ahead.
Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser also spoke on the call.
“I know what it’s like to be in the cross hairs of Donald Trump,” she said. “We have to defend our sister,” she added.
Former Congressional Black Caucus Chair Joyce Beatty and Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett were also among the speakers.
Several attendees voiced interest in wanting to join the Harris campaign as volunteers in the text Zoom chat as the call progressed.
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Democratic lawmakers begin endorsing Harris for president
From CNN staff
Supporters hold signs as Vice President Kamala Harris delivers remarks in Philadelphia, in February 2023.
REUTERS
With President Joe Biden announcing he will not seek reelection and endorsing his Vice President Kamala Harris, Democrats are beginning to join the president’s calls in getting behind Harris top the Democratic ticket.
Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock in a statement posted to X said, “I have been proud to work alongside [Biden] and our very able Vice President, Kamala Harris, and I am proud to endorse her candidacy to be next President of the United States.”
California Rep. Mike Levin of California said: “It is time to move forward with Kamala Harris as our new leader. Together.”
Hawaii Sen. Mazie Hirono endorsed Harris, saying: “I’m proud to call Vice President Harris a friend and colleague, and I look forward to doing everything in my power to get her elected to the White House, so we can continue building on the progress of the last four years.”
New Jersey Rep. Andy Kim, who is running for Sen. Bob Menendez’s seat, also endorsed Harris: “I have full faith in Vice President Harris to lead a new generation of leadership for our country,” he said, calling her candidacy “historic, not just the opportunity to elect the first woman, the first AAPI President, and a Black woman, but to continue on the incredible progress we’ve started.”
Delaware Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, aBiden ally who is running for Senate in the president’s home state, said, “There is no better person or leader more equipped to do so than Vice President Kamala Harris.”
Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell told CNN she endorsed Harris and praised Biden in a post on X.
California Rep. Salud Carbajal called Harris “a proven leader who has been a critical voice in this administration.” Carbajal said he is “proud to wholeheartedly support her to be the Democratic Party’s nominee in the process ahead.”
Washington Sen. Patty Murray said she respects Biden’s “willingness to pass the torch” and endorsed Harris for president, who she said she is behind “one-hundred percent,” according to a statement.
Ohio Rep. Emilia Sykes, a battleground House Democrat, said in a statement Sunday, “I look forward to working with Democrats to unify around Vice President Kamala Harris as our Presidential nominee.”
California Sen. Alex Padilla endorsed Harris on Sunday, saying in a post on X that the vice president “has always led with courage and conviction. She has defended our fundamental freedoms and worked to uplift all Americans.” Padilla was appointed to Harris’ seat after she was elected vice president.
Michigan Rep. Elissa Slotkin also endorsed Harris Sunday. “I support her, and her essential task of uniting the country,” Slotkin said in a post on X.
CaliforniaRep. Jared Huffman called Harris a longtime friend, saying in a post on X that “She is going to re-energize this race and I can’t wait to hit the campaign trail for Kamala Harris!” Huffman, who previously raised concerns about Biden, was against a virtual roll call vote and drafted a letter to House Democrats to delay Biden’s nomination until delegates gathered at the convention.
This post has been updated with additional reactions.
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Information shown Biden by his 2 closest advisers showed "basically non-existent" path forward, source says
From CNN's Phil Mattingly
President Joe Biden speaks at the 115th NAACP National Convention in Las Vegas on July 16.
Tom Brenner/Reuters
When President Joe Biden huddled with his two closest advisers on Saturday, the information they provided on the polling and where top Democratic officials stood laid out a “basically non-existent” path to victory, according to a person familiar with the matter.
There wasn’t any single poll number, wavering Democratic official or fundraiser presented in the meeting with his long-time aides Mike Donilon and Steve Ricchetti that pushed Biden toward his decision, the person said.
Instead, the information served to underscore that the path back to a viable campaign had been severely damaged by declining national and swing state poll numbers along with party defections that were likely to rapidly accelerate in the days ahead.
The information included polling and information gathered from outreach outside Biden’s inner circle.
Unlike 2015, when Biden wrote in his book “Promise me, Dad” that Donilon told the then-vice president he shouldn’t launch a 2016 campaign for president as he grieved the death of his son Beau, neither aide explicitly told Biden he should get out of the race, according to the person.
Biden made clear before the end of the meeting that he was planning to pull out of the race and asked his aides to start drafting the letter he posted Sunday afternoon and prepare the outreach and operation plans for the rollout.
He confirmed that decision on Sunday morning and, with Ricchetti by his side, started making calls to key players outside of his close-knit group of senior-most aides and family members, the person said, before expanding the circle to his senior staff a minute before the news was posted on his X account.
Biden and Ricchetti have been on the phone in his Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, home making calls to top lawmakers, governors, and officials in the hours since the announcement.
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Harris remarks on NCAA championship teams Monday will be first public appearance since Biden endorsed her
From Samantha Waldenberg
Vice President Kamala Harris will deliver remarks Monday at the White House honoring NCAA championship teams in her first appearance since President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid and endorsed the vice president to succeed him on Sunday.
Harris will deliver remarks at an event celebrating the National Collegiate Athletic Association championship teams from the 2023-2024 season.
Last year, every national champion from the past academic year was invited, with 52 teams travelling to Washington for the event, according to the NCAA.
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Democratic state party chairs "overwhelmingly uniting" behind Harris
From CNN's David Chalian
The “overwhelming majority” of state Democratic party chairs have announced their support for Vice President Kamala Harris as their nominee for president, the Association of State Democratic Committees (ASDC) said in a statement Sunday.
“I am proud that state party chairs, vice-chairs, and executive directors across the country are overwhelmingly uniting behind Vice President Kamala Harris,” ASDC President Ken Martin said in a statement.
The vast majority of state party leaders voted to support Harris and no ASDC member voted in opposition, the statement said. A handful of members abstained for in-state procedural reasons, it added.
President Joe Biden has endorsed Harris to succeed him after he announced his exit from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday.
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Kamala Harris spoke with Schumer and Jeffries. Both leaders have steered clear for now of endorsing her
From CNN's MJ Lee, Manu Raju, Pamela Brown and Kaitlan Collins
Vice President Kamala Harris spoke Sunday with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, according to sources familiar with the calls.
Harris plans to meet with Schumer soon, a source close to Harris tells CNN.
In statements earlier praising President JoeBiden, neither Schumer nor Jeffries mentioned Harris.
As CNN has reported, many Democratic leaders are currently not weighing in on whether Harris should be the party’s presidential nominee so as not to appear that they are forcing her candidacy onto voters too quickly.
Separately, Schumer and Jeffries had discussed the possibility of meeting with Biden this week amid growing concerns among Democrats about his candidacy, according to multiple Democratic sources. The meeting could have escalated a clash between top Democrats and Biden over his candidacy, after Schumer and Jeffries previously conveyed widespread concerns among House and Senate Democrats about the president staying in the race in separate meetings earlier this month.
It’s not clear if Biden was aware that this potential meeting was looming. But it underscored the growing pressure Biden was facing from within his own party as he deliberated his course of action.
The post was updated with information about Schumer’s call.
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International leaders weigh in on Biden's exit from the presidential race
From CNN staff
President Joe Biden walks out of the Oval Office and heads to the South Lawn at the White House in Washington, DC, on November 14, 2023.
Susan Walsh/AP
Leaders from around the world have responded to US President Joe Biden’s decision to end his bid for reelection.
Among some of them:
Ukraine: President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Biden for his “unwavering support” in his country’s war against Russia “Many strong decisions have been made in recent years and they will be remembered as bold steps taken by President Biden in response to challenging times,” Zelensky said on X. “We will always be thankful for President Biden’s leadership.”
Israel: President Isaac Herzogthanked Biden for his “friendship and steadfast support for the Israeli people” and described him as a “true ally of the Jewish people” in a post on X. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant thanked Biden for his support in a post on X and said his “steadfast backing, especially during the war, has been invaluable.”
Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau thanked Biden for being a “true friend” to his country. “He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country,” he said on X.
Poland: Prime Minister Donald Tusk wrote on X that Biden had made difficult decisions “thanks to which Poland, America and the world are safer, and democracy stronger. I know you were driven by the same motivations when announcing your final decision. Probably the most difficult one.”
Japan: Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said: “I refrain from commenting directly on this issue because it involves domestic politics in the US but I recognize that President Biden’s decision is based on his desire to make the best possible political decision.”
South Korea: President Yoon Suk Yeol’s office said: “We do not wish to comment on domestic political situations in other countries,” but added that the South Korean government “will continue to work closely with the US to further develop the South Korea-US global comprehensive strategic alliance.”
Ireland: Foreign Minister Micheál Martin said he heard the news “with both sadness & admiration,” describing Biden as an “abiding friend of Ireland” in a post on X. Martin said Biden provided “invaluable support for peace & prosperity on this island” and wished him the best.
United Kingdom: Rishi Sunak, the former UK prime minister, said in a post on X that he saw Biden’s “love for America and dedication to service” firsthand while working with him. He also outlined some achievements between the US and the UK.
Australia: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a post on X that the “Australia-US Alliance has never been stronger with our shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity and climate action for this and future generations.”
New Zealand: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in a post on X that “Biden has dedicated his life to public service, and that is something that deserves much respect.” He thanked Biden for his “commitment to New Zealand” and said he looks “forward to working with him for the remainder of his presidency.”
Venezuela: Biden “has made the most sensible and correct decision,” President Nicolas Maduro said. “He prioritized his family, his health and realized that at that age and with weakened health, he could not assume the reins of his country, much less the presidential candidacy.”
This post has been updated with additional reactions.
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"This is transformative": Some Democratic donors express elation at Harris' potential ascension
From CNN's Fredreka Schouten, Pamela Brown, and Jamie Gangel
Alan Kessler, a Philadelphia lawyer and longtime Democratic fundraiser, said the texts and emails began soon after news broke Sunday that President Joe Biden had withdrawn from the 2024 race and called for Vice President Kamala Harris to become his successor.
One, in particular, summed up the mood among Biden’s donors, he said.
After weeks of turmoil over the future of the Democratic ticket, Kessler said the campaign donors he’s courted as a bundler for Biden’s campaign are turning their full attention to Harris and committing to work on her behalf. “They’re really excited, and they are all in,” he said.
Other donors told CNN that Harris’ entry into the race is “reinvigorating.”
“My phone’s been ringing off the hook,” Matt Gorman, a longtime Democratic fundraiser, said.
Gorman said that while he deeply respects Biden, he feels it’s “incumbent” upon him to support the decision that’s been made and “back up Harris.”
He said that he and fellow donors are “excited” about Harris and that he’s received many calls from people who had been holding back donations but are now asking where to throw their money behind, whether it’s the Democratic National Committee or specific PACs.
“The energy in the last six hours has been reinvigorating and inspiring,” Gorman said.
Echoing that sentiment, another big-ticket donor said there’s going to be “a massive surge of new energy” around Harris, saying this election is about beating Donald Trump — and that he’s relieved the focus will return to that.
Another major donor told CNN they’re “going to go in big.”
At least 27 Senate Democrats have publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy for president – a majority of Democrats in the chamber. There are 51 senators that caucus with Democrats, including four independents.
Despite the majority of his caucus backing Harris, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has yet to endorse the vice president. Another member of the Senate Democratic leadership, Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, has also not endorsed Harris.
There are at least 60 House Democrats who have also endorsed Harris.
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Emhoff reaching out to Democratic donors and supporters on behalf of Harris
From CNN's Jessica Dean and Tami Luhby
Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff exit Air Force Two upon arrival at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 3.
Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images
Second gentleman Doug Emhoff has been working the phones today, reaching out to Democratic donors and supporters on behalf of his wife, Vice President Kamala Harris, according to a source familiar with the outreach.
The conversations center around support and fundraising and come as Harris works to coalesce support around her candidacy.
CNN previously reported that some Democratic donors are expressing more enthusiasm now that President Joe Biden has stepped out of the race. And Harris will need the money. Although the Biden-Harris campaign and its affiliated committees outraised former President Donald Trump’s political operation in June, newly filed campaign reports show the Trump team entered July and the general election showdown with a bigger war chest of available cash.
Emhoff also thanked Biden, along with his wife, Jill, for their leadership in a post on X Sunday evening.
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All 50 party state chairs signal support for Harris on Sunday call
From CNN's Annie Grayer
All 50 Democratic party state chairs signaled support for Vice President Kamala Harris to be the party’s new nominee, on a call held by the Association of State Democratic Committees, according to a source familiar with the matter.
The signal of support is the latest indication that party leaders are trying to coalesce around Harris.
Remember: Despite Biden’s backing, it remains unclear whether Harris will become the nominee, or what process the party will take to select an alternative.
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Trump campaign researching DNC rules and bylaws as part of preparation to potentially face another candidate
From CNN's Kate Sullivan
Since the CNN debate last month, the Trump campaign has been researching Democratic National Committee rules and bylaws to understand the internal processes that would take place if President Joe Biden should step aside as part of their broader opposition research and preparation, according to a senior Trump campaign source.
In addition to Vice President Kamala Harris, the source said the campaign has been preparing opposition research on a wide range of potential candidates, including Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and other congressional leaders.
They said there were no surprises on the campaign’s list, and that included all the Democrats who have been in conversation to potentially replace Biden on the ticket, th source said.
Trump has said in interviews dating back months ago that he didn’t think Biden would be the Democratic nominee, so the source said prior to the debate, there had been informal discussions within the campaign that Trump could end up facing off against a candidate other than Biden.
But the real preparation and opposition research didn’t start until the hours after the CNN debate in which Biden delivered a shaky performance that alarmed allies.
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Some prominent progressives are backing Harris as the new Democratic nominee
From CNN staff
Vice President Kamala Harris attends a reception celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, DC, on May 20.
Here’s some of the progressive leaders who have also expressed their support for Harris:
Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, who ran for the Democratic nomination in 2020, endorsed Harris, describing her as a “a proven fighter who has been a national leader in safeguarding consumers and protecting access to abortion.”
Rep.Pramila Jayapal, chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, also endorsed Harris. “I look forward to casting my vote for Kamala Harris for President and doing everything I can to ensure she becomes our next President,” she said in a statement.
Rep.Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York pledged her “full support” to Harris in a post on X. “Now more than ever, it is crucial that our party and country swiftly unite to defeat Donald Trump and the threat to American democracy,” she said. Ocasio-Cortez had previously warned there would be no “easy transition” to Harris if Biden stepped aside.
Rep. Cori Bush from Missouri said Harris is “more than ready to lead at this moment” in a statement. “As we look forward to November, it is clear to me that Vice President Kamala Harris has the vision to carry this legacy forward, defeat Donald Trump, and I unequivocally endorse her for President of the United States,” Bush said.
Other key endorsements: The Congressional Black Caucus PAC and the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus have also endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee. Congressional Hispanic Caucus chairwoman Linda Sánchez said in a statement that “Vice President Harris is the leader we stand behind at this critical moment.”
This post has been updated with the latest endorsements.
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Some DNC delegations endorse Harris
From CNN's Dianne Gallagher
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally in Orangeburg, South Carolina, on February 2.
Brandon Bell/Getty Images
Some delegations to the Democratic National Convention have voted to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s presidential nominee.
Although President Joe Biden has endorsed Harris, ultimately the makeup of ticket rests with the roughly 4,700 delegates who will vote for a new standard-bearer in the coming weeks. Delegates pledged to Biden are under no obligation to support his choice, but their loyalty to him and his wishes suggests the lion’s share will quickly fall in line behind Harris.
Tennessee’s delegation announced on X that it had voted unanimously to endorse Harris.
The North Carolina delegation to the Democratic National Convention likewise unanimously voted to support Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s presidential nominee, the state party told CNN.
In a statement Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton said its DNC delegation held an emergency meeting Sunday night where they “discussed how to best chart a path forward, build on [President Joe Biden’s] success, and unite, ready to win in November.”
The South Carolina delegation announced in a statement that it had also endorsed Harris. “We must move forward in unity for the sake of democracy; by selecting President Biden in February, South Carolina Democrats also selected the Vice President for her ability to lead,” South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain, who also heads the delegation, said in a statement.
Remember: Despite Biden’s backing, it remains unclear whether Harris will become the nominee, or what process the party will take to select an alternative.
CNN’s Gregory Krieg, Ethan Cohen, Aaron Pellish, Betsy Klein and Sydney Topf contributed to this story.
The post is updated with more endorsements from state delegations.
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Clyburn weighs in on who Harris could tap for her VP if she's nominated
From CNN's Morgan Rimmer
Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn, a close ally of President Joe Biden’s who has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, weighed in on several possible options for Harris to tap as her running mate if she gets the nomination.
The South Carolina Democrat said he likes Pennsylvania Gov, Josh Shapiro and noted that North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper is in play.
“North Carolina is a swing state, whether we call it that or not – Obama carried it the first time, lost it the second time, Joe Biden came within three or four percentage votes of carrying it this time. So North Carolina, raise about 15 electoral votes, it will be a very good contest for us if you have Roy Cooper on the ticket,” he told CNN.
He also mentioned Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, but acknowledged that he doesn’t know him very well.
“There are also business people whose names I heard who might also be looked upon as that as well,” Clyburn added.
Following reporting that independent Sen. Joe Manchin is considering a presidential run, Clyburn told CNN’s Anderson Cooper, “He is free to do that, and I suspect that Vice President Harris will welcome him into the contest,” though he noted that Manchin indicated on CNN this morning that he would not jump in if Biden stepped aside.
“I guess times change in short order, and peoples’ minds will change as well,” he noted.
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Answers to some key questions about Biden’s decision to exit the race
But the 81-year-old’s decision — with just over 100 days until the election — has given rise to many more questions about what comes next for the rest of his presidency and for the presidential race.
Is Biden still the president?
Yes. Biden’s announcement exclusively pertained to his role as the Democratic candidate in November’s presidential election. It has no bearing on his current role or term as president, which he said he intends to serve out in its entirety. Biden will remain president until his successor is sworn in on January 20, 2025.
Biden endorsed Harris. Does that make her the Democratic nominee?
No. Following his announcement, Biden endorsed Harris, his vice president, to be the Democratic presidential nominee.
Harris said in a statement that she was “honored” to receive Biden’s endorsement and intends to “earn and win” the nomination for president in her first public statement since Biden’s stunning announcement.
But none of this automatically makes her the nominee.
How will the Democratic nominee be chosen and who will it be?
Individual delegates will now select the party’s nominee during the Democratic convention in Chicago next month — or, potentially, during a virtual roll call. But because Biden won nearly all of the delegates during the primary process; they were approved by the Biden campaign and pledged to vote for the president. This means that while the delegates can vote however they like, it will largely be Biden backers who will be picking the nominee.
That doesn’t mean that a candidate who isn’t endorsed by Biden couldn’t attempt to secure the nomination. Some Democrats are calling for an “open process” to replace Biden, which would see other candidates in addition to Harris join the race.
Read more about these questions and others surrounding Biden’s decision here.
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Biden-Harris campaign store shows Kamala Harris merchandise as "What's New"
From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg
The Biden-Harris campaign store is now listing various “Kamala” merchandise on its home page under the “What’s New” section after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.
The store includes a t-shirt that says “Kamala,” stickers and a mug featuring a picture of a young Harris.
CNN reported earlier that Biden campaign leadership voiced support for Harris on an all-staff call and told the staff they had a job to do.
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Biden has no public events Monday and White House says details on the rest of the week will be forthcoming
From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg
President Joe Biden has no public events scheduled on Monday, after he ended his reelection bid and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to succeed him on Sunday.
The White House also says that additional details on the president’s schedule for the rest of the week will be “forthcoming.”
The president has been recovering after a Covid-19 diagnosis at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
The president has said he will finish his term and will address the nation later this week.
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GOP Senators Murkowski and Romney praise Biden for his decision to step aside
From CNN’s Morgan Rimmer
US Sen. Lisa Murkowski speaks with reporters outside of Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on June 13.
Craig Hudson/The Washington Post/Getty Images
Two Republican senators, breaking from the vast majority of their colleagues, have publicly praised President Joe Biden’s decision to exit the 2024 presidential race.
GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, considered one of the GOP’s enduring moderates, lauded the president’s move in a post on X.
Republican Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah likewise said he respects Biden and thinks he made the right decision.
Both Romney and Murkowski struck a contrast to other Republican lawmakers calling for Biden to resign from the presidency altogether.
The post was updated with Romney’s reaction.
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Chair of moderate House Democratic group endorses Harris
From CNN's Owen Dahlkamp and Annie Grayer
The chair of the moderate House Democratic group the New Democrat Coalition, Rep. Annie Kuster, has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.
Harris has been making calls to key Democrats, and one of those calls was to Kuster, according to a source familiar.
The New Democrat Coalition represents a large group of Democrats running in competitive districts. The group had a tense call with Biden earlier this month.
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Analysis: Why his decision not to seek reelection is particularly painful for Biden
From CNN's Stephen Collinson
President Joe Biden ran for reelection to save democracy. In the end, he came to the shattering realization he could only do so by ceding power himself.
Biden reached the decision to end his campaign after days in isolation at his Delaware beach house with Covid-19 and after watching many Democrats desert the president who led them to power just four years ago.
In offering to hand over power in service of what he saw as the national interest, he struck a contrast with former President Donald Trump, who fought bitterly against leaving office after loosing a free and fair election to Biden in 2020. It’s ironic that Republicans who whitewashed Trump’s election-stealing effort are now accusing Democrats of crushing the will of primary voters who voted for the president’s reelection bid.
The Biden campaign effectively ended in the 20 first, faltering minutes of his debate against Trump last month, when the president looked confused, exhausted and was unable to take the attack to his foe or to make an effective case for himself.
The soul-searching that Biden endured led to a decision that in some ways represents a humiliating end for a politician who spent years pursuing the highest office and was frequently passed over in his climb to power.
It is not an easy thing for a president — the most powerful person in the world — to separate his personal ambition from the fate of the nation.
Six Democratic Black attorneys general have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president, according to a news release from New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Harris herself served as California’s first Black attorney general before being elected to the Senate.
Those also endorsing Harris are Attorneys General Kwame Raoul of Illinois, Anthony Brown of Maryland, Andrea Campbell of Massachusetts, Keith Ellison of Minnesota and Aaron Ford of Nevada.
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Biden dropped out of the 2024 presidential race. Here's what you should know about the historic events today
From CNN staff
President Joe Biden arrives to speak in the Rose Garden of the White House on May 13, 2022 in Washington, DC.
Drew Angerer/Getty Images
In an unprecedented move, President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that is exiting the 2024 presidential race and endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, to succeed him. Read more here about how the president came to his decision.
Here are the key things to know:
Biden wrote in a letter posted to his official account on X: “And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, 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.”
Biden said he will speak to the nation later this week in more detail. A senior White House official said his decision to withdrawl did not have to do with any medical issues.
In a follow-up post, Biden praised Harris and urged Democrats to unite behind her.
Biden has spent Sunday talking to members of Congress, governors and supporters. The plans for Biden to exit the 2024 race were set into motion last night and finalized today, a source familiar with the matter said.
The president is still recovering from a Covid-19 diagnosis and has remained at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, all weekend.
How we got here: Age had been Biden’s biggest political weakness ever since he launched his first campaign against former President Donald Trump five years ago. After his faltering performance at CNN’s debate on June 27, a growing number of Democrats called on the president to step aside in the 2024 race even as Biden held a slew of events aiming to prove his fitness for office. Check out the full timeline.
What happens next: The Democratic Party will need to choose a new nominee. That decision will ultimately be made by the roughly 4,700 delegates to the Democratic National Convention. Either during a virtual roll call, which is tentatively planned for early August, or at the convention in Chicago beginning August 19, these delegates will select any eligible candidate to be the party’s nominee. Learn about what could happen next here.
What about campaign money: According to the Campaign Legal Center, the campaign war chest — totaling $95.9 million at the end of June — would be directly available to the Democrats’ presidential ticket for use in the general election only if Harris is the party’s nominee or vice presidential nominee. If Harris does not end up on Democrats’ 2024 ticket, the existing campaign account could be converted into a political action committee and use its funds indirectly.
Kamala Harris in the spotlight
Harris said she was “honored” to receive Biden’s endorsement and intended to “earn and win” the nomination. She vowed to “do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party” and thanked Biden for the “honor” of serving alongside him.
Trump’s allies are launching attack ads targeting Harris, previewing sharp criticism and targeting key battleground states.
Another possible contender: Sources close to Sen. Joe Manchin, a West Virginia independent, said he’s considering re-registering as a Democrat and throwing his hat into the ring to run for president.
Key reactions
First lady Dr. Jill Biden offered her support for whatever decision he chose, according to her communications director. Biden’s son Hunter praised his father’s lifetime of public service.
Former President Barack Obama expressed his support for Biden, describing him as “a patriot of the highest order.”
Trump campaign says there will be another presidential debate but that the host network could change
From CNN's Abby Phillip
Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller tells CNN there will be another debate but adds that the host “could change.”
Earlier today, Trump suggested on Truth Social that Fox News host the debate instead of ABC News. The second debate is currently scheduled for September 10.
President Joe Biden’s performance at the first debate, hosted by CNN on June 27, sparked discussions about whether he should withdraw from presidential race, culminating in his announcement Sunday that he would not seek reelection.
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Biden-Harris campaign apparatus sends first fundraising text blast supporting Harris
From CNN's Sam Fossum
In a sign of how the Biden-Harris campaign apparatus is coalescing around Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden said he would not seek reelection, the campaign blasted a text to supporters Sunday night asking for them to donate to her campaign.
“I am running to be President of the United States,” the text message opens.
It continues: “These are not ordinary times. And this will not be an ordinary election. But this is our America. And I need you with me in this fight. So, I have to ask: Will you pitch in your first $20 today to elect me as President of the United States and defeat Donald Trump?”
The text hyperlink then goes to an ActBlue donation page, which earlier this afternoon still said in small print that donations would benefit “Joe Biden,” but has now been changed to say that they will benefit “Kamala Harris.”
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Harris team is trying to get an overwhelming number of endorsements and delegates
From CNN's John King
Kamala Harris’ team decided to go all out once President Joe Biden posted his endorsement of her earlier this afternoon, according to two Democratic allies of the vice president, with the goal of obtaining an overwhelming number of endorsements and delegate support.
To that end, the team now has a very aggressive whip operation to secure the backing of convention delegates. The team is finding during those calls that there is little evidence so far of any other Democrat testing the water to possibly run for the nomination.
The overarching goal, the sources said, is to show that the process is effectively done and then for the DNC to schedule an August 1 roll call, although they acknowledge that the date could change if another viable candidate emerges as a candidate.
Separately, Biden called some Democrats over the weekend who were on TV on his behalf. Two of them told CNN that he voiced his gratitude and then his anger at those who were trying to push him out.
“There was some hurt in his voice but mostly anger,” one of the Biden loyalists said.
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California Gov. Gavin Newsom endorses Kamala Harris
From CNN's Dianne Gallagher
California Gov. Gavin Newsom at the Van Buren County Democratic Party's "BBQ for Biden-Harris" event on July 4 in South Haven, Michigan.
Bill Pugliano/Getty Images
California Gov. Gavin Newsom endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris Sunday, following a spate of other well-known Democrats doing the same after President Joe Biden announced he was stepping aside.
The prominent Democratic governor has long been viewed as having presidential aspirations, though he has appeared to be a loyal soldier to the Biden campaign this cycle.
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2 governors, mentioned as possible running mates if Harris becomes Dem candidate, endorse the VP
From CNN's Kit Maher, Ethan Cohen, Jeff Zeleny and Danny Freeman
President Joe Biden hugs Vice President Kamala Harris as North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper looks on during an event at the Chavis community center on March 26, in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Eros Hoagland/Getty Images
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, who had been mentioned as a possible running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris should she become the Democratic nominee, endorsed Harris for president on Sunday evening.
Cooper and Harris served together as state attorney’s generals, and one source said the two spoke briefly on Sunday. “The governor expressed his support for her to be the nominee,” the source said.
Before President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal, prominent Democrats and pundits had suggested Cooper could be a potential running mate for Harris if she were to become the nominee. The term-limited governor has not engaged publicly in discussions about that speculation.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who had also been mentioned as a possible running mate, endorsed Harris on Sunday.
Shapiro has also spoken to Harris on Sunday afternoon, according to two sources familiar with the calls.
This post has been updated with information about calls both Cooper and Shapiro had with Harris.
CNN’s Edward-Isaac Dovere and Dianne Gallagher contributed to this post.
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Biden campaign manager and Harris have a long history
From CNN's Priscilla Alvarez
President Joe Biden's 2024 campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez applauds at the Biden for President 2024 campaign headquarters on February 3 in Wilmington, Delaware.
Roberto Schmidt/AFP/Getty Images
Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez is closely connected to Vice President Kamala Harris, having served as her state director when she was a California senator and on her 2020 presidential campaign.
Harris allies immediately pointed to that relationship Sunday to make the point that amid all the uncertainty and questions about how the campaign moves forward with President Joe Biden stepping aside, at least one person at the helm knows the vice president well and has a long history with her.
CNN previously reported that Biden campaign leadership, including campaign manager Chavez Rodriguez and Jen O’Malley Dillon, voiced support for Harris on an all-staff call with the Biden campaign team and Democratic National Committee staff, and said they have a job to do.
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Tennessee delegation to the DNC votes to back Harris
From CNN's Jeff Zeleny
The Tennessee delegation to the Democratic National Convention voted unanimously on Sunday to support Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s presidential nominee, the state party announced on X Sunday, after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race.
Several other state delegations are also expected to deliver their support for Harris as part of a broad effort underway across the Democratic party to rally behind her.
Remember: Now that Biden is no longer a candidate, his delegates to the convention are free to vote for any eligible candidate — either during a virtual roll call, which is tentatively planned for early August, or at the convention in Chicago beginning August 19.
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Democratic fundraising platform ActBlue says it raised $46.7 million in 7 hours after Biden news
From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg
The Democratic online fundraising platform ActBlue says it raised $46.7 million in small-dollar donations in the seven hours after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.
CNN has previously reported that some donors – fearing a Republican rout in November should Biden remain atop the ticket – were withholding contributions or putting fundraising events on hold as the president faced pressure from some Democrats to exit the race
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"It became insurmountable," source says of Biden's inability to beat Trump
From CNN's Pamela Brown
President Joe Biden’s inability to defeat Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump “became insurmountable” in the end, a Democratic strategist close to the Biden campaign told CNN’s Pamela Brown today, describing the stark shift in his posture from looking “forward to getting back on the campaign trail” to dropping out 48 hours later.
The source said there won’t be a major shift in resources – emphasizing they “already know a lot” about Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Biden has endorsed to replace himself on the ticket.
Battleground states are expected to say the same, should Harris become the nominee, the source said, looking at the data the campaign is using for registered Democrats.
The source emphasized that while the campaign is fired up about a Harris presidency, today is also an emotional day for those close to the president.
“We deserve the right to mourn someone we looked up to for so long,” the source said.
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Some potential Democratic presidential contenders are in "wait-and-see" mode
From CNN's Jake Tapper
Some possible Democratic presidential candidates are waiting to see how the next few hours go, and assessing the degree to which the Democratic Party coalesces around Vice President Kamala Harris, while also giving President Joe Biden his day, according to CNN’s conversations with several Democrats.
Remember: With Biden dropping out of the race, the Democrats will need to choose a new nominee, without the typical series of primaries and caucuses.
That decision will ultimately be made by the roughly 4,700 delegates to the Democratic National Convention. Either during a virtual roll call, which is tentatively planned for early August, or at the convention in Chicago beginning August 19, these delegates will select any eligible candidate to be the party’s nominee.
Now that Biden is no longer a candidate, his delegates are free to vote for whomever they’d like. A major effort is already underway to consolidate support for Harris, who was endorsed today by Biden.
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Biden summoned top advisers and held a family meeting on Saturday, sources say
From CNN's Kaitlan Collins
President Joe Biden summoned his top advisers to his Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, home Saturday afternoon as he prepared to make a decision about the 2024 race, two people familiar with the move tell CNN.
Steve Ricchetti, who has advised the president since his vice president days, had been there since Friday morning and fellow longtime adviser Mike Donilon raced over. Biden huddled with the two of them throughout the evening, looked at the latest poll numbers and at what Democratic members were saying. Biden also called his chief of staff Jeff Zients throughout the day.
Then Biden did what he always planned to do before any crucial decision: He held a family meeting Saturday night.
After he decided to exit the 2024 race, the president slept on the matter before making calls on Sunday morning to a broader group. The information was kept with a close hold, to where Zients had to jump on a call and confirm that Biden’s letter he posted online was real with members of his Cabinet on Sunday afternoon.
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Legal experts are dubious of any court challenge to Democrats’ move to put forward new nominee
From CNN's Tierney Sneed
Legal challenges to Democrats’ move to nominate a new presidential candidate in the wake of President Joe Biden’s unprecedented decision to drop out of the 2024 race stand little likelihood of success, election law experts told CNN.
Donald Trump allies have discussed the legal implications of removing Biden from the ballot, and whether or not they have grounds to challenge the issue, one source familiar with the discussions told CNN. It remains unclear whether or not the campaign or outside allies will ultimately bring such a challenge.
Nevertheless, election law scholars as well as veterans of campaign litigation told CNN that courts would be unlikely to go along with lawsuits that sought to challenge the addition of a new name on the top of the Democratic ticket.
It may be at least a few more weeks until we see any Hail Mary lawsuits tested. Because Biden dropped out before the formal mechanisms that would have made him the Democratic nominee, there is nothing yet for his opponents to challenge in court and they’ll face an uphill battle once they do.
Sen. Joe Manchin considering a run for president, sources say
From CNN's Jake Tapper
Sen. Joe Manchin walks with staffers on the east front of the US Capitol on June 5 in Washington, DC.
Kent Nishimura/Getty Images
Sources close to Sen. Joe Manchin, a West Virginia independent, said he’s considering re-registering as a Democrat and throwing his hat into the ring to run for president.
The senator said earlier Sunday — before President Joe Biden announced he is dropping out of the 2024 race — that it’s time for Biden to “pass the torch.”
Manchin, 76, said he hoped the transfer of power could be done “in the most respectful way.”
“I’m hoping for that, because I think it will leave him with a tremendous legacy as one of the greatest leaders that we’ve had,” he told CNN’s Jake Tapper on “State of the Union.” “I say this, and I came to the decision with a heavy heart, that I think it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation.”
The West Virginia independent said he hoped there would be an “open process” to pick a new nominee if Biden stepped down. He said he favored governors as potential replacements, because they “can’t afford” to be partisan as the leaders of a state. Manchin floated Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as potential options.
Manchin, a longtime moderate Democrat, announced in May that he was registering as an independent. Manchin, whose announcement last year that he wasn’t seeking reelection was a political gift to Republicans hoping to flip the Senate, said in June that he’s “not running for any office,” he didn’t rule out the possibility.
Pressed on whether he was closing the door on a future run, he told CNN’s Manu Raju, “I have not – I never leave any, you never leave any political opportunity and walk away from that, so you always have options, because life is full of surprises. But I have no intention of running for political office.”
This post has been updated with additional information.
CNN’s Aileen Graef, Antoinette Radford and Morgan Rimmer contributed to this post.
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Medical issue not a factor in Biden's decision, senior White House official says
From CNN's MJ Lee
President Joe Biden’s stunning decision to drop out of the 2024 race did not have to do with any medical issues, a senior White House official told CNN.
Biden has had no significant medical examinations – aside from daily check-ins with his doctor which in recent days had to do with monitoring his Covid-19 diagnosis – as he deliberated over his political future, the official said, and medical issues ultimately were not an issue.
Even as recently as within the last week, Biden suggested that a new medical problem would be the only thing that could prompt him to reconsider his decision to seek a second term, as public pressure on him to drop out continued to mount.
“If I had some medical condition that emerged, if somebody – if the doctors came to me and said you’ve got this problem, that problem. But I made a serious mistake in the, in the whole debate,” he told BET News’ Ed Gordon in an interview Tuesday.
The president’s last annual physical was in February. The White House has been criticized for declining to make more of Biden’s medical records public or his doctor available for questioning, after his disastrous debate performance raised alarm about his health.
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Several dozen current and former Democratic National Committee members sign letter backing Harris
From CNN's Arit John
Several dozen current and former members of the Democratic National Committee have signed a letter backing Vice President Kamala Harris to replace President Joe Biden as the party’s nominee, according to a copy of the letter obtained by CNN.
The letter also praised Biden for “all that he has done and continues to do for our country and the world.” The letter also urged delegates of the 2024 Democratic National Convention and “all voters in November, to support Kamala Harris for President of the United States.”
Remember: With Biden dropping out of the race, the Democratic Party will now need to choose a new nominee, without the typical series of primaries and caucuses that allow a broad swath of Americans to make their opinions known.
That decision will ultimately be made by the roughly 4,700 delegates to the Democratic National Convention. Either during a virtual roll call, which is tentatively planned for early August, or at the convention in Chicago beginning August 19, these delegates will select any eligible candidate to be the party’s nominee.
Now that Biden is no longer a candidate, his delegates are free to vote for whomever they’d like, and a major effort is underway to consolidate their support for Harris.
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Jill Biden was "supportive of whatever road he chose," spokesperson says
From CNN's Betsy Klein and Arlette Saenz
First lady Jill Biden looks on as President Joe Biden speaks to supporters and volunteers during a campaign stop at a Biden-Harris campaign office in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on July 7.
Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images
First lady Dr. Jill Biden remained President Joe Biden’s most ardent supporter as he weighed his political future in Rehoboth Beach and offered her support for whatever decision he chose, according to her communications director.
Jill Biden has long been the president’s closest adviser and fiercest protector, wielding influence in the White House and in his campaign. A reluctant politician, she has been an active surrogate on the campaign trail, crisscrossing the country on his behalf as she worked to bolster his support with key coalitions.
Her last public event was an appearance at the Italian Sons and Daughters of American dinner in Pittsburgh, where she connected her Italian heritage and values to the president last Saturday.
Jill Biden is still expected to travel to Paris later this week, where she will lead the US delegation to the 2024 Olympic Games.
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Cabinet secretaries weigh in on Biden's withdrawal
From CNN's Tami Luhby, Jennifer Hansler, Owen Dahlkamp, Mike Callahan, Mary Kay Mallonee, DJ Judd and Samantha Waldenberg
President Joe Biden’s cabinet secretaries praised him after he announced he is not seeking reelection.
Secretary of State Antony Blinkenposted on X that Biden “restored U.S. leadership around the world and delivered historic accomplishments as President.” Blinken also wrote “It has been — and remains —the honor of my life to work for @POTUS for the past twenty-two years.”
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who also ran for president in 2020, praised Biden as “among the best and most consequential presidents in American history. I am so proud to serve under his leadership, and thankful for his unwavering focus on what is best for our country.” The secretary, who appeared alongside Vice President Kamala Harris at a fundraiser on Saturday, also threw his support behind Harris, saying in a statement, “I have seen her extraordinary leadership firsthand, working closely with her during the 2020 campaign and then in the historically effective Biden-Harris administration. I will do all that I can to help her win this election to lead America forward as our next President.”
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement that Biden “brought to fruition a vision of a new and dynamic American economy built around clean energy and climate-smart and resilient industries, including the agriculture sector.” Also, the US Department of Agriculture under the Biden-Harris administration “has advanced food and nutrition security for tens of millions, invested in new, better and more markets to create a fairer and better marketplace for all farmers, improved the health and resilience of our national forests and grasslands, made our food safer, and centered equity in all that we do.”
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin called Biden “an extraordinary guardian of America’s national security.” Among Biden’s achievements that Austin listed in a statement were that the president “renewed, deepened, and broadened the unmatched global network of alliances and partnerships that makes America more secure; he rallied the world to defend Ukraine after the Kremlin’s indefensible, all-out invasion in 2022; he positioned America to succeed in our strategic competition with the People’s Republic of China; he dramatically strengthened U.S. posture in the Indo-Pacific; he bolstered, united, and expanded NATO, and he shored up Israel’s security after Hamas’s vile October 7th terrorist assault and worked tirelessly to protect Palestinian civilians in Gaza.”
Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement that Biden, from the beginning of his tenure, “has made clear in both word and deed that he stands for the rule of law and for the Justice Department’s critical mission to protect the safety and the civil rights of everyone in our country.”
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in a statement thanked Biden for devoting his life to public service and said Biden has “taken and directed bold, innovative, and decisive actions to help safeguard our communities, secure our borders, harness the power of artificial intelligence, advance our cybersecurity, eradicate the scourge of fentanyl, and more – all while standing up for our nation’s values.”
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US stocks tick higher in premarket trading
From CNN's Nicole Goodkind
The US futures market edged up slightly Sunday after President Joe Biden announced he would step down as the Democratic nominee in the 2024 presidential election.
Futures tied to the S&P 500 added 0.2%, while Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq futures gained 0.1% and 0.3%, respectively.
“We expect a muted stock market reaction from President Biden’s resignation from the presidential race, as it was widely expected,” said Jay Hatfield, CEO at Infrastructure Capital Advisors, in a note Sunday evening.
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Biden exited the reelection race later than any previous president
From CNN's Zachary B. Wolf and Amy O’Kruk
It is not unprecedented for an incumbent president to abandon his reelection campaign. But it is rare, and no president until President Joe Biden has been pressured out of a reelection campaign out of concerns about his mental fitness.
One warning bell for Democrats who assume that a nominee younger than Biden – he has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris – would do better against former President Donald Trump: Republicans won the two most recent elections in which presidents eligible for reelection bowed out of their campaigns.
Democrats Harry S. Truman and Lyndon B. Johnson were succeeded by Republicans. A more immediate problem for Democrats is that Biden’s departure is the latest such decision in history.
Comparisons between Biden and any of these presidents are not perfect. Neither Truman nor Johnson faced serious questions about their ability to do the job. Biden does.
Both Johnson and Truman, like Biden, were former lawmakers and former vice presidents. Unlike Biden, both had assumed the presidency after a death or assassination. Both Johnson and Truman then won the White House in their own right.
But both Johnson and Truman faced competition for their party’s nomination in 1952 and 1968 respectively. Both were embarrassed by a subpar showing in the New Hampshire primary, and both announced in the spring that they would not seek reelection.
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Trump allies begin attacking Harris as a leading super PAC launches new ad in 4 battleground states
From CNN's David Wright
Donald Trump’s allies are launching attack ads targeting Vice President Kamala Harris in the wake of President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, previewing sharp criticism and targeting key battleground states.
The leading pro-Trump super PAC, MAGA Inc., launched a new 30-second spot Sunday, first shared on social media, blasting Harris and saying she “covered up Joe Biden’s obvious mental decline.” The group also announced plans to air the ad in the battleground states of Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and Pennsylvania.
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RFK Jr. calls on Dems to hold "open process" to select Biden replacement
From CNN's Aaron Pellish
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. praised President Joe Biden for his decision to drop out of the presidential race on Sunday and called on the Democratic Party to nominate Biden’s replacement via an “open process.”
Kennedy, a former Democrat who previously ran against Biden in the primaries before switching to run as an independent, said in a post on Sunday he hopes the party will “use neutral polling” to select the strongest candidate to defeat former President Donald Trump, and criticized the party’s handling of the primary process.
“If they had done this to begin with, I would not have had to leave the Democratic Party,” he added.
Kennedy applauded Biden’s decision to drop out of the race while claiming his “progressive deterioration” undermined his candidacy.
Speaking later at a news conference at his family’s compound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, Kennedy said he thinks nominating Harris at the convention will “discredit… the party I grew up with.”
He referred to the Democratic Party as a “cabal” and compared its nomination processes to the illegitimate elections held in Russia.
He also made his first targeted attacks at Harris, calling her a “war hawk” whose record shows “no difference” between her and Biden.
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Secretary of State Blinken says Biden has "restored US leadership around the world"
From CNN's Jennifer Hansler
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity foreign affairs track ministerial in the Benjamin Franklin Room of the State Department in Washington, DC on July 17.
Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised President Joe Biden after he announced that he is not seeking reelection.
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Hunter Biden praises his father’s life of service and "unconditional love"
From CNN's Sam Fossum
President Joe Biden talks to his son, Hunter Biden, following the fireworks on the National Mall with First Lady Jill Biden and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff from the White House balcony during a 4th of July event on the South Lawn of the White House on July 4 in Washington, DC.
Samuel Corum/Getty Images
President Joe Biden’s son Hunter praised his father’s lifetime of public service after the president announced he would not seek reelection in a statement Sunday.
Hunter Biden, who has struggled with addiction and has a close relationship with his father, also called on all Americans to thank the president for his service.
“I’m so lucky every night I get to tell him I love him, and to thank him. I ask all Americans to join me tonight in doing the same. Thank you, Mr. President. I love you, Dad,” Hunter wrote.
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Biden has spoken to members of Congress, governors and supporters
From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg
President Joe Biden has spent Sunday talking to members of Congress, governors and supporters after he announced that he is dropping out of the 2024 race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.
The White House said Sunday that Biden “will continue to engage with key stakeholders” Sunday night and Monday.
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What voters are saying about Biden dropping out of the race
From CNN's Gloria Pazmino, Camila Bernal, Sarah Moon and Rory Ward
CNN spoke with voters in Pennsylvania and California, asking them about their thoughts on President Joe Biden’s announcement to exit the 2024 race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
Here’s what they said:
Los Angeles:
Orange County resident Ron Dizon said he doesn’t “completely support (Harris), but I would honor that if she was to run.”
“If we could see someone that is not like a politician — something like a Trump, but like, not a Trump. I want to see something different,” he added.
Los Angeles resident Debra Elder said she is “sad” about Biden’s decision. “He’s a strong president, although he’s up in age, but he still has a lot to give. I can understand the age difference, but his mind is still strong. Although he might forget something, but it still comes back to him, I just think he’s a better president for our country,” she said.
But Elder said she thinks Harris could beat former President Donald Trump in a potential matchup. “We just have to get out there, and put our boots on, and hit the ground running real hard,” she added.
Pittsburgh:
Tina Enck told CNN “it was obvious that maybe it was time for him to step aside. The security of the nation has to be of the utmost importance.”
Meanwhile,Marie Colangelo said she thinks “it’s an instant win for Trump if they choose” Harris to be the Democratic nominee. “I think they are going to have to get someone more challenging. I won’t name names, but there are a few that would give him a real run for his money because the country is definitely split in half.”
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Trump gave $6,000 to Harris' California attorney general campaigns between 2011 and 2013
From CNN's David Wright
If Kamala Harris ends up facing Donald Trump in November, she’ll be running against a former campaign donor.
According to California campaign finance records, Trump contributed a total of $6,000 to Harris’ campaigns for attorney general between 2011 and 2013. Trump made a $5,000 contribution to Harris’ campaign account in 2011, and gave an additional $1,000 in 2013.
The state records show Trump also contributed to another aspiring rival, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, giving $2,500 in 2009 to Newsom’s first, unsuccessful gubernatorial bid.
Some background: Before his personal entry to politics in 2015, Trump was a frequent campaign contributor to candidates from both parties. And during his first bid for president, Trump deflected criticism of his donations to Democrats by bragging about his influence and criticizing a “broken system.”
“I give to everybody. When they call, I give. And you know what, when I need something from them two years later, three years later, I call them. They are there for me. That’s a broken system,” he said during a 2016 GOP presidential primary debate.
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What to know about how the nominating process could play out
From CNN's Ethan Cohen
The logo for the Democratic National Convention is displayed on the scoreboard at the United Center during a media walkthrough on January 18 in Chicago.
Scott Olson/Getty Images
President Joe Biden will end his bid for reelection and has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.
Despite Biden’s backing, it remains unclear whether Harris will become the nominee, or what process the party will take to select an alternative.
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions:
Does Harris just become the nominee? No. While Biden has already endorsed his vice president for the nomination, there’s no succession protocol for the presidential ticket in the way there is for the office. Harris will have to win a majority of the convention just like anyone else.
What’s the “virtual roll call”? Democrats are in the process of setting up a system to conduct their presidential nomination vote remotely before the party’s convention next month.
Under a plan presented Friday, delegates would get 24 hours’ notice before voting begins, and voting would take place via digital ballots emailed to delegates.
However, the party did not take any steps to approve the plan at Friday’s meeting. It’s not yet clear whether the party will stick with the remote vote plan or scrap it and allow the formal vote to happen on the convention floor.
How would other candidates get into the race? Under party rules, candidates must meet certain requirements to have their names placed into nomination to be the party’s presidential candidate.
They must gather hundreds of signatures from delegates (at least 300, but not more than 600) from several states.
Candidates also must meet a series of requirements laid out in party rules, including that they are a “bona fide Democrat” and that they have “established substantial support for their nomination as the Democratic candidate” for president. While this determination is to be made by the DNC chair, the party has not yet released more details on how eligible candidates would be determined.
What are delegates? There are two separate sets of delegates.
There are 3,949 pledged delegates. These are delegates who were selected through various state-level processes. About 99% of them were pledged to vote for Biden, based on his performance in primaries and caucuses around the country. The individuals who were pledged to vote for Biden were also approved by his campaign.
Roughly 750 (747 as of the last word from the DNC – this number can change) are automatic delegates. Also known as “superdelegates,” these are individuals who serve as delegates by virtue of another position they hold or held. These delegates are free to vote for the candidate of their choice, but under normal circumstances, they can’t vote on the first ballot if their votes could impact the results of the nomination (it’s not exactly clear whether they’ll be able to participate on this first ballot in this case.
Are Democratic delegates required to vote for the candidate who won them? No. Under Democratic party rules, pledged delegates “shall in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them.” However, the candidates’ right of review means that delegates can be expected to be loyal to the candidate to whom they’re pledged.
But now that Biden is no longer a candidate, his delegates are free to vote for whomever they’d like. He doesn’t need to formally “release” his delegates.
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Here are some additional accomplishments Biden lists in his letter announcing he's dropping out
From CNN's Tami Luhby
President Joe Biden signs into law the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act gun safety bill in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on June 25, 2022.
Passing “the first gun safety law in 30 years”: Biden signed a bipartisan gun safety bill into law in June 2022, in the wake of the mass shootings at a Uvalde, Texas, elementary school and a Buffalo, New York, supermarket. The compromise legislation includes money for school safety, mental health, state crisis intervention programs and incentives for states to include juvenile records in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, which would provide a more comprehensive background check for those between the ages of 18 and 21 who want to buy guns. However, it failed to ban any weapons and fell short of what Biden and Democratic lawmakers have advocated for.
Appointing “the first African American woman to the Supreme Court”: Biden nominated Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court in February 2022. A former Washington DC appellate court judge, Jackson became the first Black woman to sit on the highest court in the nation, allowing Biden to deliver on one of his top 2020 campaign promises.
Passing the “most significant climate legislation in the history of the world”: The nearly $370 billion clean energy and climate package contained in the Inflation Reduction Act is the largest climate investment in American history. It’s also the biggest victory for the environmental movement since the landmark Clean Air Act. It aims to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and contains many tax incentives meant to bring down the cost of electricity with more renewables and spur more American consumers to switch to electricity to power their homes and vehicles.
Biden campaign leadership voices support for Harris on Biden team all-staff call
From CNN’s Betsy Klein and Kaitlan Collins
The Biden campaign leadership, including manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez and chair Jen O’Malley Dillon, have voiced support for Vice President Kamala Harris on an all-staff call.
The call was with the Biden campaign team and Democratic National Committee staff. The leaders told the staff they had a job to do.
Another source added that Biden’s campaign staff were told everyone still had a job on the campaign.
“The team is the team,” they were told.
Notably, staff have not offered any concrete logistical information, details many members of Biden’s Wilmington team are anxiously awaiting. The president is in Rehoboth Beach isolating after he tested positive for Covid-19 last week.
This post has been updated with additional details.
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Biden-Harris campaign formally amends FEC filings and renames committee
From CNN's David Wright
The Biden-Harris campaign has formally amended filings with the Federal Election Commission to rename its principal committee, hours after President Joe Biden made his announcement that he would withdraw from the race.
On Sunday, the campaign committee filed paperwork with the FEC, which noted that the “committee name is different than previously reported,” re-designating the committee as “Harris for President.”
The committee also filed a letter with the commission stating: “Vice President Harris is now a candidate for United States President in the 2024 election and will henceforth be conducting campaign activities only in pursuit of that office.”
Remember: Control of the campaign war chest, however — totaling $95.9 million at the end of June — depends on whether Harris remains on the Democrats’ 2024 ticket.
According to a statement from the Campaign Legal Center, those funds would be directly available to the Democrats’ presidential ticket for use in the general election only if Harris is the party’s nominee or vice presidential nominee.
If Harris does not end up on Democrats’ 2024 ticket, the funds could not be directly transferred to a new candidate. The existing campaign account could be converted into a political action committee and use its funds indirectly.
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Here are the accomplishments Biden lists in his letter announcing he won't seek reelection
Making “historic investments” in rebuilding our nation: Biden signed the bipartisan $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act into law in November 2021. It contains $550 billion of new federal investments in America’s infrastructure over five years, touching everything from bridges, roads and rails to the nation’s broadband, water and energy systems. However, it left out Biden’s proposal to spend $400 billion to bolster caregiving for aging and disabled Americans and several other measures he supported.
Expanding health care to “a record number of Americans”: Those buying health insurance policies on the Affordable Care Act exchanges are temporarily eligible for more generous federal premium subsidies thanks to the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act, which Biden signed into law in March 2021. This beefed-up assistance helped prompt a record 21.3 million people to sign up for 2024 coverage on the Obamacare exchanges. However, the next president and Congress will have to decide whether to continue the subsidies, which are set to expire at the end of 2025.
Providing care to veteran exposed to toxic substances: The Honoring our PACT Act, which Biden signed into law in August 2022, adds conditions related to burn pit and toxic exposure, including hypertension, to the Department of Veterans Affairs list of illnesses that have been incurred or exacerbated during military service. It removes the burden for veterans to prove that their toxic exposure resulted in these conditions. Biden has said he believes there may have been a connection between the brain cancer that killed his 46-year-old son, Beau, and the burn pits Beau was exposed to during his military service.
In pictures: Scenes across America after Biden says he's dropping out of the presidential race
President Joe Biden announced Sunday he is dropping out of the 2024 race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s new nominee.
See photos of people reacting shortly after the announcement:
Correspondents use the White House Briefing Room to file reports of US President Joe Biden's decision not to seek re-election on July 21 in Washington, DC.
Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
A person holds a sign that reads "Bye Joe!" after President Joe Biden announced he dropped out of the race for re-election, outside of the White House on July 21, in Washington, DC.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Items depicting Vice President Kamala Harris are displayed in a window at White House Gifts in Washington, DC.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
A sign is placed in front of the US Naval Observatory, where Vice President Kamala Harris lives, on Sunday in Washington, DC.
AP
People walk near a a news ticker announcing that US President Joe Biden is dropping his reelection bid in the Manhattan borough of New York City on Sunday.
Eduardo Munoz/Reuters
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Harris is making calls to Democratic lawmakers
From CNN’s Priscilla Alvarez, Manu Raju and Abby Phillip
Vice President Kamala Harris attends a moderated conversation with former Trump administration national security official Olivia Troye and former Republican voter Amanda Stratton on July 17, 2024 in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Chris duMond/Getty Images
Vice President Kamala Harris has a list of some 200 calls to make Sunday to shore up support for her candidacy for president, a top Democratic source close to Harris told CNN.
Already, Harris has spoken with the heads of the Congressional Black Caucus and Congressional Hispanic Caucus, according to two sources. She is also calling allies in the House and former colleagues in the Senate.
The message on those calls is to thank allies for their support up until this point, but to ask for their continued support in the days ahead.
Outside Democratic organizations and donors are also on the list of calls for the vice president. One congressional source told CNN that the Congressional Black Caucus plans to meet Sunday tonight.
More on the call with one caucus leader: Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Nanette Barragán told Harris she was 100% behind the vice president, a source says.
Earlier Sunday, the Hispanic Caucus leader commended President Joe Biden’s record, following his announcement to drop out of the race.
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New Democratic nominee for president shouldn't have trouble getting on ballots in all states
From CNN's Ethan Cohen
The Democratic Party will now need to choose a new nominee for president after Joe Biden announced he would exit the race for reelection.
After the convention nominates a candidate, many election law experts say they won’t have much or any trouble getting on all 51 presidential ballots.
Unlike independent candidates, the Democratic and Republican nominees for president don’t need to gather signatures to appear on the ballot.
Instead, the major parties, by virtue of their popularity, enjoy automatic ballot access in every state. While the process varies by state, the parties typically submit their nominees’ names (and the names of candidates for presidential elector) to the state.
Biden hasn’t been officially nominated and the party hasn’t submitted his name to state officials. So the new nominee wouldn’t be, in an official sense, replacingBiden. Whoever the delegates select will be the Democratic nominee and they shouldn’t have an issue taking the Democratic ballot line.
However, that doesn’t mean that there wouldn’t be the possibility of litigation, even if it would be unlikely to succeed.
Biden has dropped out of the race. What happens next?
From CNN's Ethan Cohen
With President Joe Biden dropping out of the race, we’ve entered an unprecedented period in modern presidential politics.
The Democratic Party will now need to choose a new nominee, without the typical series of primaries and caucuses that allow a broad swath of Americans to make their opinions known.
That decision will ultimately be made by the roughly 4,700 delegates to the Democratic National Convention. Either during a virtual roll call, which is tentatively planned for early August, or at the convention in Chicago beginning August 19, these delegates will select any eligible candidate to be the party’s nominee.
After the delegates elect a presidential nominee, a vice presidential nominee will also be selected. These names will then be printed on the ballot in every state and Washington, DC.
It’s important to keep in mind that modern party rules were largely designed to pass this process off to primary voters and then hold an orderly roll call vote to confirm their choice of nominee.
So while it’s clear that this responsibility will now fall to the convention delegates, it’s likely the party will need to do more work, either through interpretation of its existing rules, or by passing new ones, to clarify some of the exact details.
In the end, the Democratic National Convention is the ultimate arbiter of the rules, so a majority of delegates to that convention are free to change this process as they see fit.
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California Senate candidate Rep. Adam Schiff endorses Harris
From CNN’s Owen Dahlkamp
US Vice President Kamala Harris, right, speaks with Rep. Adam Schiff at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, April 11, 2024.
Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images/File
Rep. Adam Schiff, the Democratic nominee for the US Senate in California, has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s nominee in the 2024 presidential race.
“I am excited to endorse @KamalaHarris for President, and give her my full support,” he wrote in a statement on X.
Schiff is a prominent ally of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who praised President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out but has not yet endorsed a replacement nominee.
Biden called House Minority Leader Jeffries after announcement letter went out
From CNN's Annie Grayer and Manu Raju
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries speaks as President Joe Biden listens during the 2022 House Democratic Caucus Issues Conference March 11, 2022 in Philadelphia.
Alex Wong/Getty Images/File
President Joe Biden spoke with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on Sunday after announcing he would not seek reelection, two sources familiar with the call told CNN.
In a meeting earlier this month, Jeffries expressed the concerns he had been fielding from the House Democratic Caucus about the prospects of Biden remaining at the top of the ticket.
While Jeffries did not offer Biden an endorsement in that meeting, per sources, the top House Democrat had publicly backed him.
CNN reached out to Jeffries’ office for comment.
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GOP congresswoman plans to introduce resolution calling on Harris to invoke 25th Amendment
From CNN’s Owen Dahlkamp
Rep. Nancy Mace at the 2024 Republican National Convention hosted at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 17, 2024.
Rebecca Wright/CNN
GOP Rep. Nancy Mace says she plans to introduce a resolution on Monday that calls on Vice President Kamala Harris to invoke the 25th Amendment and assume President Joe Biden’s duties.
“If Joe Biden does not have the cognitive ability to seek reelection, he does not have the cognitive ability to serve the remainder of his term,” she said in a post on X.
The White House has made clear that Biden plans to finish the remainder of his term.
GOP Rep. Chip Roy also introduced a similar amendment the day after the presidential debate in late June, where Biden’s disastrous performance triggered alarms and drew scrutiny.
Some context: The 25th Amendment was enacted in the wake of the assassination of John F. Kennedy, whose predecessor Dwight Eisenhower suffered major heart attacks. It was meant to create a clear line of succession and prepare for urgent contingencies. The amendment allows the vice president, with the support of Cabinet officials, to seize power from a president who is unfit for office — like one who is in a coma or suffered a stroke. The amendment sets a high bar for actually removing a president from office, however.
Some Cabinet members held preliminary discussions about invoking the 25th Amendment to force former President Donald Trump’s removal from office after the January 6 Capitol riot.
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Biden talked to members of Congress, governors and supporters on Sunday
From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg
President Joe Biden has spent Sunday talking to members of Congress, governors and supporters after he announced that he is dropping out of the 2024 race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.
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From the CNN debate to today: The 25 days that unraveled Biden's campaign
From CNN staff
Age had been President Joe Biden’s biggest political weakness ever since he launched his first campaign against former President Donald Trump five years ago.
But his faltering performance at CNN’s debate on June 27 shocked many Americans in what was their most extensive exposure to the president since the last round of debates in 2020.
In the days that followed, a growing number of Democrats called on the president to step aside in the 2024 race, Biden held a slew of events aiming to prove his fitness for office, and Trump was injured in an assassination attempt.
We’ve broken down the key events that have shaped one of the most crucial months in Biden’s career — and would eventually sunset his half-century life in politics:
More House Democrats have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s nominee for president.
“This was the president’s decision to make and I’m grateful for his years of service to our country,” Rep. Ilhan Omar, a progressive Democrat from Minnesota, wrote in a statement. “Thrilled to support @KamalaHarris as our Democratic nominee and remain committed to working alongside her to defeat Donald Trump in November.”
Rep. Jamie Raskin said he is also backing Harris. “We Democrats will be unified and focused behind our next President, Kamala Harris, to keep their great success going and to defeat the autocrats, theocrats and plutocrats,” the Maryland lawmaker said.
Raskin had sent a letter to Biden asking him to reconsider his candidacy, CNN previously reported.
Rep. Robert Garcia of California was a key ally to Harris during her 2020 presidential bid. Harkening back to his time on the trail with her, he said, “When she withdrew we got behind Joe Biden. Now we are going to support them both by electing her President.”
There are now at least 35 House Democrats and 14 Senate Democrats endorsing Harris.
Oregon Rep. Val Hoyle praised Biden’s decision to step aside and endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee.
“Joe Biden is a kind and decent man who always put this country first,” Hoyle said in a statement shared on X. “I have been proud to stand with and support Joe Biden as he’s been the most pro-worker, pro-union President in my lifetime and the only President to have ever walked a picket line with striking workers.”
Amid concerns over Biden candidacy, Harris tried to show a united front, sources say
From CNN's Priscilla Alvarez
Harris embraces Biden after a speech in Raleigh, North Carolina, in March 2024.
Matt Kelley/AP
Vice President Kamala Harris and her aides sought to show a united front in recent weeks amid mounting pressure for President Joe Biden to step out of the race, following a mandate by senior staffers to stay the course, sources told CNN.
Harris has been on the campaign trail, staunchly defending Biden and his record, including as recently as Saturday when she participated in a fundraiser in Massachusetts, raking in more than $2 million. The fundraiser came on the heels of a Harris call with donors amid waning support. Harris joined the call at the request of Biden advisors.
Aides stressed over recent days and weeks that there was no daylight between Harris and Biden, and that the plan was to follow the campaign’s lead.
One image that stuck out to friends and allies was on July 4 when Harris joined Biden on the White House balcony to observe the fireworks — the first time the two watched the celebration together from the balcony. The two embraced and at one point, the president lifted the vice president’s hand up.
Harris was informed that Biden would withdraw from the race Sunday. The two spoke multiple times over the course of the day, according to a source.
Biden has endorsed Harris to be the Democratic nominee.
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Urgent effort underway across Democratic Party to rally behind Harris
From CNN's Jeff Zeleny
A handmade sign for Vice President Kamala Harris appears on a lawn, Sunday, July 21, 2024, in Washington, DC.
Jacquelyn Martin/AP
An urgent move is underway across the Democratic Party for elected officials, allied groups and others to rally behind Vice President Kamala Harris, people involved with the matter say, in hopes of keeping potential challengers at bay and strengthening her own pursuit of the nomination.
This effort has been underway for days – in the event that President Biden stepped aside – and is expected to intensify in the coming hours.
Bill and Hillary Clinton were the top examples of this, wasting no time to extend their support for Harris.
The language in Harris’ own statement was intended to show her plans to “fight for the nomination,” a senior Democratic adviser close to Harris says.
“My intention is to earn and win this nomination,” Harris said.
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CNN Poll of Polls on a potential Harris-Trump matchup finds a close race and no clear leader
From CNN’s Jennifer Agiesta
A CNN Poll of Polls average of recent polls testing Vice President Kamala Harris against former President Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election found a close race with no clear leader.
The CNN Poll of Polls is an average of the six most recent nonpartisan national surveys of registered or likely voters that meet CNN’s standards and ask about a 2024 presidential general election between Harris and Trump.
The Poll of Polls includes results from the CBS News/YouGov poll conducted from July 16 to 18, the NBC News poll conducted July 7 to 9, the Fox News poll conducted July 7 to 10, the NPR/PBS News/Marist College poll conducted July 9 to 10, the ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll conducted July 5 to 9 and the CNN poll conducted June 28 to 30.
Results show Trump holds 48% support in the average of six recent polls testing the matchup, while Harris holds 47%. Each poll was conducted after the CNN Presidential Debate last month and just one – the CBS/YouGov poll – was after the assassination attempt on Trump on July 13.
Surveys including named third-party or independent candidates are not included. When a pollster has released multiple polls in that timeframe, only their most recent is included in the average.
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Party officials begin gaming out how Harris would play down-ticket
From CNN's Manu Raju
Top Democratic and Republican officials are assessing the impact that Vice President Kamala Harris would have down-ticket on congressional candidates across the country — if she’s the Democratic nominee.
Several Democrats told CNN they believe she would help rebuild President Joe Biden’s fraying coalition — namely with young and minority voters — and that could help energize their base at a time of a major enthusiasm gap against former President Donald Trump.
Polling showed Biden was well behind Senate and House candidates in tough races.
“The hit against Biden was pretty unique to him — people felt he was too old and therefore not up to the job,” one senior Democratic source said. “That’s why we saw his numbers cratering compared to Democratic candidates.”
But Republicans say they will continue to tie unpopular aspects of Biden’s administration to Harris and to Democrats down the ticket.
A GOP official believes Harris and Biden are “very similar” and “owns all Biden policies,” arguing that Republicans will accuse down-ticket Democrats of trying to subvert the democratic process by anointing her as the next nominee.
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Harris makes direct fundraising appeal on social media after Biden drops out of 2024 race
From CNN’s Sam Fossum
Vice President Kamala Harris made her first direct fundraising appeal in a social media post after President Joe Biden announced he will not seek reelection.
The link goes to an Act Blue donation page with a portrait of the vice president and the words: “Donate to Elect Kamala Harris.” The fundraising appeal adds that the contribution will ‘benefit Joe Biden,’ a sign of how the campaign infrastructure that still exists.
While Harris received the president’s endorsement, she is not the party’s nominee and whether she ultimately will be is still not set in stone.
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Senior White House adviser tells staff to focus on fighting for Harris
From CNN's MJ Lee
Senior Biden adviser Anita Dunn held an all-White House staff call this afternoon following President Joe Biden’s decision to leave the 2024 race, and told them to focus on fighting for and defending Vice President Kamala Harris, a source tells CNN.
Dunn, as CNN reported, was among the senior-most advisers who did not know of Biden’s decision until moments before his letter went out.
She told staff that they did not do anything wrong by insisting recently that Biden was not dropping out, given how recently he made the decision.
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White House says Biden will finish his term despite some GOP calls to step down
From CNN's Betsy Klein
The White House says President Joe Biden is “looking forward to finishing his term” when asked about some congressional Republicans who are calling on Biden to step down from the presidency. Biden said in his initial statement that he will complete his term.
Bates continued: “That includes continuing to lower costs, create jobs, and protect Social Security while standing against the MAGAnomics agenda that would worsen inflation and drive us into recession. And he’ll keep fighting to protect Americans’ freedoms from radical abortion bans and attacks on the rule of law.”
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Vance attacks Harris, accuses her of lying about Biden’s mental capacity
From CNN's Kit Maher
Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance on Sunday attacked Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing her of lying about President Joe Biden’s mental capacity.
Before Biden’s announcement, Vance argued the president should resign if he steps aside in the 2024 race.
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RNC slams Harris in statement on Biden exiting race
From CNN's David Wright
The Republican National Committee has released a statement on President Joe Biden’s exit from the presidential race, pointedly attacking Vice President Harris.
Biden endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee shortly after his announcement. A number of Democratic leaders and lawmakers have joined him in endorsing the vice president.
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Biden campaign co-chair Rep. Jim Clyburn endorses Harris
From CNN’s Aileen Graef
Rep. Jim Clyburn, longtime ally and friend of President Joe Biden’s, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president.
The South Carolina Democrat also praised Biden for his service to the country. “Biden has “improved the lives of countless Americans through his selfless service,” he said.
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Unions react to Biden's decision to exit race
From CNN's Eva McKend, Dianne Gallagher, Chris Isidore, Antoinette Radford, Tami Luhby and Owen Dahlkamp
Union leaders have responded to President Joe Biden’s decision to step down as Democratic candidate in the 2024 election.
Here’s what some of them have to say:
National Education Association:President Becky Pringle described Biden as an “extraordinary president and public servant” in a statement. She said Biden “distinguished himself as the most pro-public education, pro-union president in history” and helped ensure “every student has access to the resources and learning opportunities needed to thrive.” In the statement, Pringle also took aim at GOP nominee Donald Trump, saying “rather than doing anything to keep students and educators safe from gun violence, Trump just tells us to ‘get over it.’”
United Auto Workers: In a statement, the UAWthanked Biden for his service and “the leadership he has shown in putting country before self.”
AFL-CIO: The president of the AFL-CIOalso praised Vice President Kamala Harris, describing her as being “integral” to the Biden administration’s success, noting her track record of supporting unions. “She cast the tie-breaking votes to save the pensions of more than 1 million union members and retirees, expand the child tax credit to help millions of struggling families, and take on big pharmaceutical companies to lower the price of key prescriptions like insulin,” Liz Shuler wrote.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders said “history will judge the Biden-Harris administration as a resounding success.”
TheAssociation of Flight Attendants-CWA: President Sara Nelson also praised Biden’s track record, saying in a statement that he “always led with the conviction that working people know what’s best — we just need policymakers to give us a chance. Every time Flight Attendants sit down with Joe Biden, he treats us with dignity and respect as aviation’s first responders and the last line of defense.”
American Federation of Teachers: Randi Weingarten, president of the nation’s largest teachers union and a Democratic National Committee member on the Rules and Bylaws Committee, posted on X that the federation’s executive council voted to endorse Harris, subject to ratification by delegates to the 2024 AFT convention. Weingarten noted that Harris is “fighting to restore Roe, fighting for families, for student debt relief and is a powerful advocate for workers.”
United Farm Workers: The union endorsed Harris, posting on X: “Kamala Harris stood with farm workers as CA’s Attorney General, as US Senator, and as Vice President. There is work to be done, and we’re ready. Sí, se puede!”
The Service Employees International Union: The union, more commonly known as SEIU, has endorsed Harris’s candidacy. “Vice President Harris is the best prepared candidate for president, bringing decades of public service fighting for working families, as well as a historic choice to lead the Democratic ticket as a woman of color and the daughter of immigrant parents,” the union said in a statement. SEIU is one of the largest labor organizations in the US, with more than 2 million members.
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Rep. Ted Lieu becomes first member of House Democratic leadership to endorse Harris
From CNN’s Morgan Rimmer
Rep. Ted Lieu speaks during a press conference following their weekly caucus meeting at the US Capitol on July 9, in Washington, DC.
Bonnie Cash/Getty Images
Rep. Ted Lieu, vice chair of the House Democratic Caucus, is the first member of the House Democratic leadership to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the successor to President Joe Biden.
“Four years ago, I was the first Member of Congress to endorse Kamala Harris for President,” the California lawmaker wrote in a statement. “So honored to endorse @KamalaHarris again for President.”
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Trump team has been preparing opposition books on potential Democratic candidates
From CNN's Kristen Holmes
Former President Donald Trump’s campaign has been preparing opposition research books on various potential Democratic candidates for several weeks, two sources familiar tell CNN.
Vice President Kamala Harris, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer are all on the list of possible presidential candidates, but most of the focus has been on Harris. There is a deep belief within the Trump campaign that Democrats will fall in line behind Harris, based on the idea that if the party bypasses the first Black woman to serve as vice president it will cause more problems for them.
While members of Trump’s orbit have publicly said they hope Harris replaces Biden at the top of the ticket, privately, there is some concern about any and all potential candidates, knowing that any change could potentially boost enthusiasm within the Democratic party ahead of the election and therefore increase turnout, two sources close to Trump told CNN.
Trump’s team had been hoping former President Joe Biden would stay in the race.
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Harris could be the first Black woman and Asian American to lead a major political party ticket
From CNN's Arit John
Vice President Kamala Harris has President Joe Biden’s support to become the next Democratic presidential nominee, a mantle that would make her the first Black woman and first Asian American to lead the ticket of a major political party.
Harris said she was “honored” to receive Biden’s endorsement and intends to “earn and win” the nomination.
The historic endorsement came after Biden announced Sunday that he is dropping out of the race following weeks of disarray within the Democratic Party. The president’s disastrous debate called into question his ability to win a second term and govern for another four years.
Despite the president’s backing, it remains unclear whether Harris will become the nominee, or what process the Democratic Party would take to select an alternative.
Democratic National Committee chairman Jaime Harrison said in a statement that in the coming days the party will “undertake a transparent and orderly process to move forward as a united Democratic Party with a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump in November.”
Logistically, Harris is the natural heir to the ticket as Biden’s running mate. She would inherit the Biden campaign’s massive political operation and war chest. Recent polling has also shown her performing better against former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, than Biden and other potential Democratic contenders.
Former primary challenger Rep. Dean Phillips praises Biden after announcement
From CNN’s Ali Main
Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota, who ended his own primary challenge to President Joe Biden in March, praised the president and said he’ll get to work to support a new nominee.
Harris found out about Biden’s decision Sunday, sources say
From CNN’s MJ Lee and Priscilla Alvarez
While President Joe Biden’s closest aides – among them Steve Ricchetti and Mike Donilon – were informed of his decision to exit the presidential race Saturday night and were dispatched to put in motion the public announcement, Vice President Kamala Harris did not know until Sunday, according to a source.
Biden and Harris spoke multiple times earlier Sunday ahead of his announcement, a source familiar with the situation said.
The president, still recovering from a Covid-19 diagnosis, has remained at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, with first lady Jill Biden all weekend.
He asked two of his closest advisers to start the process of drafting the letter and coordinating the announcement on Saturday night, according to a person familiar with the matter.
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Top Biden-Harris fundraiser says donors are prepared to back Harris bid
From CNN's Abby Phillip
While many donors want an open process, a top fundraiser for the Biden-Harris campaign says that others are prepared to back Vice President Kamala Harris in the coming days.
“She’s going to have to consolidate this in the next 24 to 48 hours,” the source said. “It’s really hers for the taking right now.”
There is no organized push against Harris, though some donors want an open process because they are unsure Harris is the strongest candidate.
But time works in her favor, the source said. Many have come to believe that there is not enough time to truly have a process that selects someone else.
So far, the campaign has not yet communicated with top donors and fundraisers given how fresh the news is.
“The level of enthusiasm, particularly with Kamala, would be though the roof,” the source said. “The race has totally changed.”
What other sources are saying: One source involved in the campaign’s fundraising arm breathed a sigh of relief following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he will step aside from the race. “President Biden made the right decision. Now big donor money will start flowing again. His selfless act will save our republic,” the source told CNN, adding that the response from donors has been “uniformly positive.”
Another source close to Democratic donors told CNN: “It’s an avalanche of money.”
In the lead-up to Biden’s decision, multiple donors had reached out to Harris’ team proactively to signal they would be willing to support her if she ran at the top of the ticket, according to three people familiar with the discussions.
But after saying Biden “did the right thing” by endorsing Harris as presidential nominee, campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond unleashed anger at big donors, saying they had “created a self-fulfilling prophecy” by declining to give money to support Biden after his disastrous debate performance. Richmond also had this message to financial backers that had abandoned the president in recent weeks: “Now those donors need to step the f*** up.”
CNN’s MJ Lee, DJ Judd, Priscilla Alvarez and Camila DeChalus contributed reporting to this post.
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Plans for Biden to exit 2024 race were set into motion last night and finalized today, source says
From CNN's Arlette Saenz and Phil Mattingly
Plans for President Joe Biden to exit the 2024 race were set into motion last night and finalized today, a source familiar with the matter said.
The president, still recovering from a Covid-19 diagnosis, has remained at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, with first lady Jill Biden all weekend.
He asked two of his closest advisers to start the process of drafting the letter and coordinating the announcement on Saturday night, according to a person familiar with the matter.
Biden worked with his longtime close adviser and message chief Mike Donilon to draft the letter, the person said. Steve Ricchetti, another longtime adviser going back to his time as vice president, was charged with organizing the mechanics of the announcement. Both are in Rehoboth with Biden.
Biden’s closest advisers and family were told of his decision on Saturday night as he put in motion the process of drafting the letter and the mechanics of its release.
He has spoken to all of his family since making the decision to drop out of the race, and his daughter Ashley and son-in-law Howard drove to Rehoboth earlier today, according to the source.
It is unclear if other family will join the Bidens in Delaware as the president continues to recover from Covid-19.
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Biden campaign co-chair supports Harris
From CNN's Maureen Chowdhury
Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, long-time ally of Joe Biden and his campaign co-chair, said he supports Vice President Kamala Harris for replacing the president on the Democratic ticket.
Coons described Harris as a “genuine leader” and said that he is “glad that President Biden has endorsed her today and made it clear the direction that he intends to take as the most respected senior leader in our party this fall. He was determined to beat Donald Trump and to make sure that the hard work he and Kamala Harris have done, leading our country this last four years, continues.”
As for Biden’s decision to step down, Coons noted that, “This is a historic moment, where our president is choosing to step aside in the best interest of the nation. And that is in the best tradition of Joe Biden’s life of putting our nation before himself.”
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Harris says she will "earn and win" Democratic nomination
From CNN's Betsy Klein
Vice President Kamala Harris attends an event at the White House in Washington, DC, on June 3, 2021.
Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters
Vice President Kamala Harris said in a statement she was “honored” to receive President Joe Biden’s endorsement and intends to “earn and win” the Democratic nomination for president in her first public statement since Biden’s stunning announcement.
This statement was issued from the Biden-Harris campaign side, not the White House.
She vowed to “do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party – and unite our nation – to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda.”
Harris offered her thanks and praise to Biden for his service, heralding his legacy and the “honor” of serving alongside him.
“With this selfless and patriotic act, President Biden is doing what he has done throughout his life of service: putting the American people and our country above everything else,” Harris said.
There are 107 days until Election Day, she noted, an acknowledgment of the very short period of time for Harris to consolidate her party’s support.
“Together, we will fight. And together, we will win,” she said.
This post has been updated with more from Harris’ statement.
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Biden has stepped down as presidential candidate just months out from the election. How did we get here?
From CNN's Antoinette Radford
President Joe Biden participates in a CNN presidential debate in Atlanta on June 27.
Will Lanzoni/CNN
The calls for President Joe Biden to step aside from the 2024 race grew louder and louder over the past month, triggered by a shaky performance at the CNN presidential debate with former President Donald Trump, the GOP nominee.
During that debate, Biden often defaulted to an open-mouthed, staring look while Trump was speaking. The president occasionally struggled to finish his thoughts or land punches, ceding ground on issues such as abortion where Democrats have an edge.
It had a significant impact on public confidence in the president, with his approval rating hitting a new low following the debate, according to a CNN poll conducted by SSRS.
That same poll found that three-quarters of US voters said the Democratic Party would have a better shot at holding the presidency in 2024 with someone other than Biden at the top of the ticket.
President Joe Biden holds a press conference at the NATO summitt in Washington, DC, on July 11.
Kent Nishimura/Getty Images
After the dismal debate performance, the president had a new challenge showing both international leaders and voters at home that he was up to the top job as leaders gathered in Washington for the NATO conference. In a crucial speech, Biden’s first solo press conference since November 2023, the president referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as Vladimir Putin — the name of the Russian president.
Again, public confidence in Biden plummeted. And the news only got worse for the 81-year-old president when he tested positive to Covid-19 on Wednesday.
Amid concerns about his physical and mental capabilities in the role, Biden remained steadfast: He would not exit the race.
Senior Democrat Nancy Pelosi weighed in on the matter, privately telling Biden that polling showed he could not defeat Trump and could destroy Democrats’ chances of winning the House in November.
And on Sunday morning, hours before Biden announced his decision to step down, independent Sen. Joe Manchin echoed other lawmakers in encouraging Biden to “pass the torch” to a new generation of leadership.
CNN’s Betsy Klein, Kasie Hunt, MJ Lee, Lauren Fox and Kayla Tausche contributed to this post.
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Trump campaign attacks Harris in wake of Biden’s exit from race
From CNN’s Kate Sullivan
Trump co-campaign managers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles issued a statement Sunday attacking Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden announced he was ending his reelection bid and endorsing Harris, arguing Harris would be “be even WORSE for the people of our Nation than Joe Biden.”
They attacked Biden as a “complete fraud and a disgrace to our Country,” and argued Biden has been a “weak, pathetic, and incompetent as a leader.”
LaCivita and Wiles went on to refer to Biden as a “national security threat in great cognitive decline.”
The statement continues: “The question then to Kamala Harris is simple: knowing that Joe Biden withdrew from the campaign because of his rapidly deteriorating condition, does Harris believe the people of America are safe and secure with Joe Biden in the White House for six more months?”
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Nanette Barragan endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president on Sunday, after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race.
Barragan described Biden as “one of the most consequential presidents in American history” and said Democrats would work to ensure his legacy is “secure” and support “Harris as the party moves forward, unified, in our efforts to put the American people over politics.”
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Former President Barack Obama praises Biden in statement: "He’s a patriot of the highest order"
From CNN's MJ Lee and Jeff Zeleny
Former President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden arrive at a campaign fundraising event at Radio City Music Hall in New York on March 28.
Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images
Former President Barack Obama expressed his support of President Joe Biden after he exited the 2024 presidential race, describing him as “a patriot of the highest order.”
“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead,” the statement continues. “But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges. I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August. And I expect that every single one of us are prepared to carry that message of hope and progress forward into November and beyond.”
Seeking unity with new nominee: The statement does not include an endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris or any other Democrat as the party’s new nominee.
An adviser said Obama is taking the same approach as he did in the 2020 Democratic primary, watching closely with the intent of being able to unify the party when a nominee is chosen – whether it is Harris or someone else.
Governors and mayors praise Biden after president exits race
From CNN’s Cindy Von Quednow, Dianne Gallagher, Jillian Sykes, Michelle Watson, Matt Holt, DJ Judd and Tami Luhby
A number of governors and mayors have reacted to President Joe Biden exiting the 2024 race, commending him on his service to the country.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper on Sunday thanked Biden for his service to the country and indicated that he “has cemented his place among our nation’s finest Presidents.” “When our democracy faced danger, President Biden stood strong as the rarest type of leader who could help us forge ahead with a vision to repair our country’s soul,” Cooper said in a post on X.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker released a statement saying: “President Joe Biden has dedicated his life in service to this nation, and its citizens are all the better for it. His is a storied political career culminating in one of the most accomplished and effective presidencies of our lifetime.” He also warned about the “threat” from former President Donald Trump.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul thanked Biden and said, “He’ll go down in history as one of the greatest champions of working families our nation has ever known,” in a post on X shortly after he announced he would not seek reelection. Later Sunday evening, Hochul endorsed Harris for president, saying in a statement that “When President Biden picked Kamala Harris to be his Vice President he unleashed incredible excitement for a new generation of political leadership,” and that “Kamala is a champion of justice who will fight every single day for a woman’s right to choose, for middle class families, and for the integrity of our democracy.”
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro reacted as well: “President Biden is a patriot who has served our country honorably in the Senate, as Vice President, and as one of the most consequential presidents in modern history,” he said in a post on X. Shapiro, who is on the list of potential running mates for Harris should she become the nominee, endorsed Harris and said she “will continue the work of generations of Americans who came before us to perfect our union, protect our democracy, and advance real freedom.”
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear shared his statement of support for Biden: “While his decision today could not have been easy, it is in the best interest of our country, and our party. I want to thank him for his leadership, kindness and for a successful presidency that got big, important things done.”
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers offered effusive praise for Biden and said his decision not to seek reelection “doesn’t change the fact the choice remains clear this November.” Evers said former President Donald Trump “will enact a radical, authoritarian agenda if he returns to the Oval Office.”
Columbus, Ohio, Mayor Andrew Ginther, who is president of US Conference of Mayors, praised Biden for championing the nation’s cities, saying “he worked hand in hand with us to deliver some of the most consequential legislation for cities.” Ginther listed the American Rescue Plan Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and other packages as examples.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams said President Joe Biden’s announcement Sunday to not seek reelection is “a real indicator of patriotism.” Adams told CNN’s Erin Burnett, “I think he has shown us over the years, no matter what tragedies he may have faced, that he wanted to always do what’s best for America, and he made that decision.” Adams did not indicate if he would support Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee but did say there is a process that needs to take place.
The post has been updated with more reactions.
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Here's what Harris' schedule looks like this week, so far
From CNN’s Betsy Klein
Vice President Kamala Harris had two Midwestern events on her schedule this week.
It is unclear whether her schedule will proceed as planned amid Sunday’s monumental announcement from President Joe Biden.
She had been set to travel to Milwaukee on Tuesday for a campaign event, marking her fifth visit to Wisconsin in 2024.
She is also set to attend the Zeta Phi Beta sorority’s Grand Boule in Indianapolis for a moderated conversation, another effort to engage Black women voters.
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Rep. Swalwell says he fully supports Harris to replace Biden
From CNN's Maureen Chowdhury
Rep. Eric Swalwell speaks at a press conference at the Capitol in Washington, DC, on January 25, 2023.
Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
California Rep. Eric Swalwell voiced his full support for Vice President Kamala Harris replacing Joe Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee.
“She’s got what it takes,” he added.
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Trump issues fundraising appeal after Biden drops out
From CNN's Kate Sullivan
Former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally on July 20, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
AP
Former President Donald Trump issued a fundraising appeal after President Joe Biden said he was dropping out of the 2024 race, calling on “one million pro-Trump patriots to chip in and proudly say: I stand with Trump.”
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Democratic delegates react to Biden dropping out
From CNN's Aaron Pellish
Democratic convention delegates are weighing in with their initial reaction to the news of President Biden’s exit from the presidential race.
CNN spoke to five Democratic delegates who spoke to CNN on the condition of anonymity to speak candidly about the pivotal moment for the party.
One California delegate told CNN he’s “relieved” and “excited” after hearing Biden withdrew from the race. The delegate, who wanted Biden to step aside after seeing his performance in last month’s presidential debate, said he hoped Vice President Kamala Harris would replace Biden at the top of the ticket, calling her the “strongest” candidate.
Another California delegate said she’s “feeling a huge sense of relief.” She had privately been concerned about Biden’s viability following the debate and hoped for weeks he would step aside.
A Massachusetts delegate told CNN he expected Biden to step down once calls from Democrat lawmakers for him to step aside began to increase. He said he believes in Biden’s vision of the country, but “that vision has failed to reach Americans,” and hopes Democrats will nominate a candidate who “can help Americans understand what’s at stake.”
A delegate from Colorado told CNN she’s grateful for Biden’s service but said “it is long overdue that there is a competitive nomination for president” at the Democratic convention. She also told CNN she hasn’t yet decided who to support for the nomination. When asked about supporting Harris, whom Biden endorsed shortly after dropping out on Sunday, the delegate said she’s not convinced she can win.
“It is not clear that she is the best candidate to defeat Donald Trump,” she said.
A delegate from Florida told CNN he’s “disappointed” Biden dropped out and said Democrats owe Biden “a debt of gratitude” for winning the 2020 election and “setting up Democrats to defeat Trump again.” He said he’s taking his cues from Biden and throwing his support behind Harris but doesn’t have strong preference for who he would want to join Harris on the ticket.
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House speaker previously warned GOP could file legal challenges if Democrats replace Biden
From CNN's Jalen Beckford
House Speaker Mike Johnson speaks at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, on July 16.
Kamil Krzaczynski/AFP/Getty Images
House Speaker Mike Johnson warned earlier Sunday that Republicans could likely file legal challenges against any attempts to replace Biden, if he dropped out of the race.
Johnson’s remarks came only hours before Biden announced that he has dropped out of the presidential race and formally endorsed of Vice President Kamala Harris.
Key context: It’s not clear exactly what legal challenges Republicans could muster. Because Biden dropped out of the race before being formally nominated, Democratic Party rules allow for party delegates to vote for a new nominee.
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Bernie Sanders thanks Biden for serving with "honor and dignity"
From CNN's Maureen Chowdhury
Sen. Bernie Sanders and President Joe Biden walk on the South Lawn of the White House on April 22, in Washington, DC.
Alex Brandon/AP
Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent senator from Vermont who caucuses with Democrats, commended Joe Biden for serving the country with “honor and dignity” shortly after the president announced that he is exiting the presidential race.
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Sen. Elizabeth Warren endorses Harris
From CNN’s Morgan Rimmer
Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts speaks during a Senate hearing in Washington, DC, on July 11.
Ting Shen/Bloomberg/Getty Images
Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden said he would not seek reelection.
On Saturday, Warren had said that “Joe Biden is our nominee and he has a really big decision to make” and praised Harris. Her comments praising Harris offer a stark difference from March 2023, when she would not answer whether she thought Harris should remain as Biden’s running mate during a local Boston radio interview.
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Lawmakers praise Biden after he says he will exit reelection race
From CNN staff
Democratic lawmakers are praising President Joe Biden after he announced he would exit the race for reelection.
New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen said Biden “has been one of America’s most accomplished and consequential presidents,” according to a statement.
“As he always has, President Biden is once again putting the country he loves first, and I thank him for his unwavering dedication and service to our nation,” Shaheen said.
Colorado Democratic Rep. Jason Crow, who CNN reported had a tense exchange with Biden on a call with House Democrats last weekend, also praised the president for dropping out and always putting “our country first.”
“In 2020, President Biden saved us from a second Trump term and by stepping aside he may have done so again,” Crow said in a statement.
Sen. Gary Peters, the chair of Senate Democrats’ campaign arm, said on X that Biden’s “life has been dedicated to our nation. There is no greater dedication a leader can make than sacrifice. Today, Joe and Jill Biden put America first.”
California Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla also praised Biden for putting “our country first” but, notably, he did not endorse Vice President Kamala Harris in a statement.
Texas Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar thanked Biden in a statement and said he looks forward to supporting “the next Democratic nominee for President” without specifying who.
This post has been updated with additional reactions.
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Biden and Harris spoke Sunday, source says
From CNN's Priscilla Alvarez
Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden attend an event at the White House in May 2023.
Michael Reynolds/EPA/Bloomberg/Getty Images
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke Sunday, according to a source familiar. It’s unclear when exactly they spoke.
After announcing Sunday afternoon he wasn’t seeking reelection, Biden threw his support behind Harris to become the next Democratic nominee for president, calling on the party to come together.
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Sen. Kaine endorses Harris
From CNN’s Owen Dahlkamp
Virginia Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine, who is up for reelection this fall, endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris after President Joe Biden announced Sunday he would not seek reelection.
After praising Biden’s tenure, he said in a post, “I’m looking forward to working with my friend @KamalaHarris and a great ticket mate to keep Virginia blue so that we can continue to build on our progress.”
Kaine previously ran on the ticket as Hillary Clinton’s 2016 running mate.
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Harris allies will meet tonight to discuss path forward
From CNN's Eva McKend
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks in Jacksonville, Florida, on May 1.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images
A number of Vice President Kamala Harris’ key Black female Democratic allies are planning to meet in a Zoom call later this evening, according to an individual familiar with their plans.
The vice president’s allies, who lead voter turnout operations across the country, have been quietly organizing for weeks to ensure that if the president stepped aside, Harris would be well positioned to lead the ticket without appearing as if they or by extension her were angling to force Biden out, the source told CNN.
Additionally, voting rights organization Black Voters Matter said they were “ecstatic” that Biden endorsed Harris.
Harris’ allies are describing this moment as “uncharted territory” but are confident the party will be able to navigate the days ahead because of Biden’s endorsement, said one Democratic operative.
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Pelosi praises Biden for his decision to step aside
From CNN’s Annie Grayer
Nancy Pelosi, then House Speaker, attends during a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, DC, on December 22, 2022.
Ting Shen/Bloomberg/Getty Images
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi praised President Joe Biden on Sunday for his decision to not seek reelection, but does not endorse Vice President Kamala Harris in her statement.
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The Congressional Black Caucus PAC has endorsed Harris
From CNN's Eva McKend
The Congressional Black Caucus PAC endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for 2024 presidential candidate in a statement.
The statement described Biden as the “ultimate statesman” and one of the “most accomplished presidents in American history, a trailblazer on the issue of gun safety, a staunch advocate for civil rights, and a bipartisan lawmaker who has created millions of jobs across the country.”
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Biden told senior team he was exiting race just as his public letter went out, source says
From CNN’s MJ Lee
President Joe Biden speaks during a press conference in Woodside, California, in November 2023.
Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images
President Joe Biden told his most senior team he was exiting the presidential race at around 1:45 p.m. ET, right around when his public letter was published, a source familiar with the timing told CNN.
“Before that, it was all steam ahead that he’s running,” the same source said.
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Top House progressive Rep. Jayapal endorses Harris: "She will mobilize and energize our base to re-engage"
From CNN's Haley Talbot
Rep. Pramila Jayapal speaks during a hearing of the House Committee on Education in Washington, DC, on December 5, 2023.
Mark Schiefelbein/AP
Congressional Progressive Caucus chair Pramila Jayapal endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris on Sunday in a sign the left wing is coalescing around her as the nominee.
In her statement posted to social media, she also thanked President Joe Biden for his service as president and recognized his accomplishments while in the White House.
“I know President Biden’s decision to step aside this election comes after careful and deliberative consideration of the best path forward to win the House, Senate, and White House, and protect our democracy - which has always remained his top priority. I respect his decision and I applaud his full-throated endorsement of Vice President Harris to be our Democratic nominee who will continue President Biden’s legacy, defeat Donald Trump, win the House and the Senate and defend our rights and freedoms,” she said.
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Harris supporters have been working behind the scenes to secure support from delegates in case Biden left race
From CNN's Jeff Zeleny
Even as Democrats waited for President Joe Biden to make his decision, supporters of Vice President Kamala Harris were working behind the scenes for the last week to secure support from delegates.
This was not to push Biden out but to be prepared in case he left the race.
“We have been whipping delegates for the last week,” a senior Democratic strategist who worked on Harris’ 2020 campaign told CNN.
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Bill and Hillary Clinton endorse Kamala Harris for president
From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrive at Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, Georgia, on November 28, 2023, to travel to Atlanta to attend at tribute service for former first lady Rosalynn Carter.
Andrew Harnik/AP
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton both joined President Joe Biden in endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for president.
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DNC Chair: "American people will hear from the Democratic Party on next steps"
From CNN's Holmes Lybrand and Ethan Cohen
Democratic National Convention Chair Jaime Harrison said the party will take a “transparent and orderly process to move forward” in choosing a candidate after President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race.
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Analysis: Here's what could happen now that Biden has exited the race
From CNN's Zachary B. Wolf and Ethan Cohen
President Joe Biden departs after speaking to the media at the White House on July 1.
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
Now that President Joe Biden has decided not to run for reelection, Democrats have an unprecedented challenge, given the traditional primary season has long since ended.
Biden on Sunday endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democrats’ nominee this fall, but he can’t automatically make her the candidate.
These delegates aren’t just pledged to vote for Biden; they’re also approved by his campaign. So while a majority of convention delegates could decide to pick a new nominee, doing so would require massive defections from the president’s own supporters.
Settling on a replacement could be divisive and ugly. It would be up to the delegates to decide, in a series of votes after frantic lobbying, who to pick.
On the Democratic side, there is also another group to consider: the “superdelegates,” a group of about 700 senior party leaders and elected officials who are automatically delegates to the convention based on their position. Under normal party rules, they can’t vote on the first ballot if they could swing the nomination, but they’re free to vote on subsequent ballots. However, it isn’t exactly clear how those rules would be applied in the unprecedented event that Biden were to leave the race at this point.
The number of superdelegates can also shift if one dies or resigns. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, the longtime Texas congresswoman, died July 19, reducing the number of superdelegates by one.
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Democratic donors express support for Harris following Biden’s announcement
From CNN’s DJ Judd, Priscilla Alvarez and Camila DeChalus
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks at a campaign event in Philadelphia on May 29.
Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters
One source involved in the campaign’s fundraising arm breathed a sigh of relief following the announcement Sunday that President Joe Biden would no longer seek reelection.
In the minutes since Biden posted his decision on social media platform X, the source said, the response from donors has been “uniformly positive.”
Another source close to Democratic donors told CNN: “It’s an avalanche of money.”
Stephen Cozen, a longtime Democratic donor who considers the president as a friend, told CNN Sunday, that he is not “shocked” by Biden’s decision to step down.
“I am extraordinarily proud and grateful to him for putting any personal ambition to the side, and doing what he thinks is in the best interest of the country.”
Cozen said that moving forward he will support Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
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Democratic donors need to step up now that Biden has bowed out of the race, campaign co-chair says
From CNN’s MJ Lee
After saying US President Joe Biden “did the right thing” by endorsing Kamala Harris as presidential nominee, campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond unleashed anger at big donors, saying they had “created a self-fulfilling prophecy” by declining to give money to support Joe Biden after his disastrous debate performance.
Richmond also had this message to financial backers that had abandoned the president in recent weeks: “Now those donors need to step the f*** up.”
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Biden spoke with Schumer this afternoon before withdrawing from race
From CNN's Kaitlan Collins
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer spoke with President Joe Biden this afternoon before the president posted a letter announcing his exit from the 2024 presidential race, according to a source familiar.
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House Minority Leader Jeffries praises Biden and doesn't mention Harris
From CNN's Haley Talbot
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries speaks at a weekly press conference at the Capitol in Washington, DC, on July 11.
Allison Robbert/The Washington Post/Getty Images
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries praised President Joe Biden for his decades of service in a statement after the president announced he would not be seeking reelection.
Jeffries did not mention Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Biden subsequently endorsed, in the brief statement.
“President Joe Biden is one of the most accomplished and consequential leaders in American history. In less than one term, he rescued the nation from a once-in-a-century pandemic, brought the economy roaring back from the brink of recession, enacted consequential legislation for everyday Americans and saved our democracy by defeating the Insurrectionist-in-Chief,” Jeffries said.
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Here's what will happen to Biden's campaign cash
From CNN's David Wright
President Joe Biden waves to supporters at a campaign rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, on June 28.
Allison Joyce/Getty Images
After President Joe Biden announced Sunday he would not seek reelection, what happens to his campaign cash?
It’s a significant war chest that totaled $240 million at the end of June, including the Democratic National Convention and allied committees, according to an announcement from Biden’s campaign Tuesday. And Biden’s campaign account alone held $95.9 million at the end of June, according to the most recent available data from the Federal Election Commission.
If Vice President Kamala Harris is tapped as the official nominee, she would take over the existing campaign account and have control of funds deposited there, per FEC rules.
If the race were thrown open, the Biden-Harris campaign could transfer all of its cash on hand to the Democratic National Committee, as FEC rules permit unlimited transfers from candidate committees to national party committees.
The DNC could use those funds in several ways to support a new nominee, and could distribute that money to a variety of other down-ballot candidates and allied committees — but in doing so, the DNC would be limited by FEC rules governing spending and contributions for national party committees.
Biden’s campaign could also be converted into a political action committee and largely retain control of its war chest. But it would then be governed by FEC rules for PACs, which restrict contributions to $5,000, sharply limiting its ability to distribute the tens of millions of dollars in cash on hand.
As a PAC, Biden’s funds could also be spent on independent expenditures, such as costly advertising campaigns, to support other candidates, including a new presidential candidate. The new PAC, however, would not be able to coordinate those spending activities with any of the candidates it supports and would face disadvantageous advertising rates.
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Sen. Steve Daines, chair of the GOP's campaign arm, calls on Biden to resign
From CNN’s Morgan Rimmer
Sen. Steve Daines listens during a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, DC, on March 20.
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
GOP Sen. Steve Daines, the chair of the Senate Republican campaign arm, called on President Joe Biden to resign from the presidency after he announced he wouldn’t be seeking reelection Sunday.
“It is out of concern for our country’s national security that I am formally calling on President Biden to resign from office.”
His call for the president to resign follows those of other prominent Republicans like House Speaker Mike Johnson, and vice presidential nominee JD Vance, who said Saturday that Biden should leave office if he bows out of the race.
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Harris will lay low publicly until after Biden speaks, sources say
From CNN’s John King
Vice President Kamala Harris will lay low publicly until after President Joe Biden speaks to the nation following his announcement that he will not seek reelection, according to two sources close to Harris.
Harris will not behave as a presidential candidate until after Biden speaks, the sources said, but her allies are calling delegates ahead of the Democratic National Convention.
Harris’ allies are confident and say that the hope is that the DNC will have a quick process to pick a nominee before the convention.
One of the sources predicted no other serious candidates will emerge.
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Biden's final decision to leave the race was reached in the last 48 hours
From CNN’s Jeff Zeleny
President Joe Biden’s final decision to leave the race was reached in the last 48 hours, a senior campaign adviser said, as he consulted family and top advisers by telephone.
He did not have a final in-person meeting with his top campaign or White House advisers as he recovered from Covid-19 at his beach home in Rehoboth, Delaware.
The adviser said the president “was not dug in,” but was studying all of the data coming in and became convinced he would “weigh down” the ticket and be a distraction and complication to defeat former President Donald Trump.
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Ron Klain urges Democrats to "unite behind" Harris
From CNN's Kit Maher
Ron Klain, former White house chief of staff and President Joe Biden’s chief debate coach ahead of CNN’s June debate in Atlanta, said it’s “time to end the political fantasy games” and get behind Vice President Kamala Harris.
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Colorado governor thanks Biden for his decades of service
Top donors signal support for Kamala Harris nomination
From CNN's Kayla Tausche and Prisicilla Alvarez
In the lead up to President Joe Biden’s decision to exit the 2024 race, multiple donors had reached out to Vice President Kamala Harris’ team proactively to signal they would be willing to support her if she ran at the top of the ticket, according to three people familiar with the discussions.
Biden’s decision to exit the race and endorse Harris represents a seismic change for the Democratic party — and one that donors are embracing publicly.
Dmitri Mehlhorn, a Democratic political strategist advising several big-money backers, released a statement Sunday following Biden’s withdrawal supporting Harris.
Major donations to Biden’s reelection campaign had shrunk considerably in the weeks since the president’s CNN debate performance and the resulting crisis of confidence in the Democratic party, and the financing of his campaign became a key consideration as he weighed whether to stay in the race.
Big-dollar donors who had been withholding checks amid concerns over Biden’s candidacy abruptly began reaching out to advisers, expressing readiness to give to the campaign, according to a source involved in discussions.
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Kentucky governor says Biden's decision to step down is "in the best interest of our country"
From CNN's Pamela Brown
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear expressed his support for President Joe Biden after Sunday’s announcement and said his decision to step down is in the best interest for the country.
He added that now is the time for the “nation to come together.”
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Senior members of Biden team found out about decision shortly before letter went out
From CNN's MJ Lee and Betsy Klein
President Joe Biden informed senior campaign and White House team that he would be dropping out of the presidential race shortly before the letter went out, according to a senior White House official. The official said President Joe Biden had been reflecting on it the past couple days.
The president told his most senior team he was getting out around 1:45 p.m. ET — right when the public letter was published, a source familiar with the timing told CNN.
“Before that, it was ‘all steam ahead’ that he’s running,” the same source said.
The news that Biden is stepping aside from the 2024 campaign is coming as a surprise in real time to many rank-and-file Biden staffers — at both the White House and the presidential campaign. CNN has spoken with multiple staffers who found out when the president posted the letter at 1:46 p.m. ET on X. The announcement was kept extremely close hold, one Biden aide said.
There will be an all-staff call for Biden campaign and Democratic National Committee staff later on Sunday, according to one source familiar, who added that the campaign for Democrats’ down ballot races will continue.
Another source familiar says that most Biden campaign staff, including some senior staff, found out from the president’s post on X. The most senior staff found out in the minutes before it was posted.
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Here's a quick reminder of Kamala Harris' career and time as vice president
From CNN staff
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a meeting with state attorneys general to discuss the fentanyl public health crisis at the White House in Washington, DC, on July 18, 2023.
April 26, 2022 - The White House announces that Harris has tested positive for Covid-19. She is exhibiting no symptoms. She will isolate and work from the vice president’s residence.
May 27, 2023 - Becomes the first woman to deliver a commencement address at the graduation ceremony at the US Military Academy in West Point, New York.
Biden campaign co-chair: Biden did "right" thing by endorsing Harris
From CNN’s MJ Lee
Biden campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond told CNN that President Joe Biden did the right thing by endorsing Kamala Harris after dropping out of the race.
The campaign will need to “figure out” in the coming days how exactly to proceed, but Richmond said it will work to support Harris.
Richmond said he got a brief heads-up about the president’s decision before he announced it publicly.
“Joe Biden, in the history of his career, he’s always put country and history first,” he said of the president dropping out of the race. “This is another example of that.”
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Trump says Biden is "not fit to serve"
From CNN's Kate Sullivan
Former President Donald Trump on Sunday reacted to President Joe Biden ending his reelection bid, claiming Biden is “certainly not fit to serve.”
Trump added, “We will suffer greatly because of his presidency, but we will remedy the damage he has done very quickly. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
In a phone call with CNN minutes after Biden announced his exit from the 2024 race, former Trump described Biden as going “down as the single worst president by far in the history of our country.”
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Donald Trump Jr. attacks Harris as "even more liberal and less competent" than Biden
From CNN's Kit Maher
Donald Trump Jr. is attacking Vice President Kamala Harris, who President Joe Biden endorsed for the Democratic nomination after stepping down, as “even more liberal and less competent” than Biden.
“Kamala Harris owns the entire leftwing policy record of Joe Biden. The only difference is that she is even more liberal and less competent than Joe, which is really saying something. She was put in charge of the border and we saw the worst invasion of illegals in our history!!!” Trump Jr. said.
His father, former President Donald Trump, told CNN shortly after today’s announcement that he thinks Harris will be easier to defeat than Biden would have been.
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Read Biden’s full statement announcing he's dropping out of 2024 presidential race
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who also ran for president in 2020, praised President Joe Biden as “among the best and most consequential presidents in American history.”
The secretary appeared alongside Vice President Kamala Harris at a fundraiser on Saturday.
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Speaker Johnson calls on Biden to resign from office
From CNN’s Morgan Rimmer
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has called on President Joe Biden to resign from office shortly after the president announced he would not seek reelection.
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First lady Jill Biden posts heart emoji on Instagram, along with Biden letter
From CNN's Betsy Klein
Dr. Jill Biden reposted President Joe Biden’s letter announcing his choice not to seek reelection on Instagram, along with the double pink heart emoji.
CNN has reached out to the first lady’s office for reaction.
The first lady is expected to lead the US delegation to the Paris Olympics later this week.
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Sen. Hickenlooper joins chorus of Democrats praising Biden
From CNN's Ted Barrett
Colorado Sen. John Hickenlooper speaks during a Senate hearing in Washington, DC, on March 14.
“More than anything, I’m thankful Joe Biden has given so much to this country over a lifetime of service,” the senator added.
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Michigan lawmaker praises Biden's record and urges for a Democratic president to be elected in November
From CNN's Ali Main
Michigan Rep. Elissa Slotkin, a vulnerable Democrat who is running for Senate, praised President Joe Biden’s record after he announced he wouldn’t seek reelection.
“Few public servants have given more to our country than Joe Biden. His record of accomplishment as a Senator, Vice President, and as President of the United States is unmatched,” she wrote on X.
Slotkin, similarly to other Democrats in competitive races, did not accompany Biden at his most recent campaign stop in Detroit earlier this month.
She also did not comment specifically on Biden’s endorsement of Harris.
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DNC chair says he's "emotional" about Biden's decision to drop out of race
From CNN's Ethan Cohen
Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison addressed President Joe Biden’s decision to not seek reelection at the beginning of a previously scheduled meeting of the convention credentials committee.
Harrison’s comments, which began before Biden announced in a post on X endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination, did not include a mention of other candidates, or additional details on what the process to replace Biden will look like.
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Democratic whip praises Biden for putting "country first"
From CNN's Morgan Rimmer
Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin has praised President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of the presidential race, saying he “always put country first.”
“Now the Democratic Party must unite behind a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump and keep America moving in the right direction. I will do everything in my power to help that effort.”
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Sen. Baldwin lauds Biden's "decency, integrity" and endorses Harris
From CNN's Manu Raju and Ali Main
Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat running for reelection in the battleground state of Wisconsin, thanked President Joe Biden for not seeking reelection and officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic nominee.
“It has been an honor to work with Joe Biden to deliver real, meaningful change for working Wisconsinites across our state. Today, seniors are paying less for their prescription drugs, our state has been put to work rebuilding our infrastructure, and millions of Wisconsinites with preexisting conditions have health care coverage because of the work we’ve done together,” she said in a statement.
“Throughout all of that work, I’ve been inspired by his decency, integrity, and dedication to service, and I am deeply grateful for that. Thank you, President Biden,” she continued.
Baldwin had been careful about how she navigated her relationship with the president on the campaign trail, choosing to make her own campaign stops across the state in early July when Biden held his first post-debate rally in Madison.
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Expect other Democratic veterans to follow suit and endorse Harris, senior party officials say
From CNN's Jeff Zeleny
With President Joe Biden offering his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as a replacement nominee, a senior Democratic official tells CNN they believe other party elders will follow suit.
The official said that the Democrats can “use this moment to bring the party together and return the contrast to Donald Trump.”
A second senior Democratic official, who has been in close touch with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other leaders during this deepening crisis over the last three weeks, said Democratic elected officials and others will rally behind Harris.
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Schumer praises Biden as a "true patriot and great American" after he drops out of presidential race
From CNN's Morgan Rimmer
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised President Joe Biden for putting “his party, and our future first.”
“Joe, today shows you are a true patriot and great American,” he added.
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Biden endorses Vice President Kamala Harris
From CNN staff
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris wave to the audience after speaking at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on May 29.
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
President Joe Biden said that he will not seek reelection and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.
“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 said in a post on X.
He said picking Harris as his running mate in 2020 has “been the best decision I’ve made.”
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California Gov. Gavin Newsom thanks Biden in social media post
From CNN’s Cindy Von Quednow
Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom thanked President Joe Biden in a social media post minutes after Biden announced he is ending his 2024 bid for reelection.
Newsom offered his strong support for Biden in the weeks following the president’s performance at the debate in June and has been campaigning heavily on his behalf.
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Biden campaign co-chair declines to comment on next step but praises president for "incredible legacy"
From CNN's Manu Raju
President Joe Biden arrives for an event in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, DC, on April 21, 2023.
Drew Angerer/Getty Images
Democratic Sen. Chris Coons, a close ally of President Joe Biden and campaign co-chair, praised him in comments to CNN.
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Naomi Biden says she is "nothing but proud today" of her grandfather
From CNN's Alieen Graef and Sam Fossum
Naomi Biden, granddaughter of President Joe Biden, said she is “nothing but proud today” of her grandfather after he announced his decision to drop out of the 2024 presidential race.
“Our world is better today in so many ways thanks to him. To the Americans who have always had his back, keep the faith. He will always have ours,” she added.
Biden’s family has been intimately involved in the president’s decision making around his staying in the race and had been supporting him continuing his campaign, CNN has reported.
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It is the first time a US president has dropped out of a reelection run in decades
From CNN's Michael Williams
President Joe Biden’s departure from the presidential race comes after weeks of concern about the 81-year-old president’s stamina and mental abilities.
There has also been much skepticism about his ability to effectively campaign against former president Donald Trump and govern the country for another four years. Biden’s decision is also likely to raise questions about his ability to fulfill the duties of the presidency for the remainder of his term.
It’s the first time a US president has dropped out of a reelection run in decades, recalling memories of President Lyndon Johnson deciding against seeking a second full term in 1968 – though Biden’s decision comes months later in the campaign than Johnson’s announcement.
It’s also the latest shocking development in a highly charged political campaign that has included an attempt on Trump’s life.
But not even the attempted assassination and its tumultuous effect on the race could pause the loss of support Biden was facing among congressional Democrats who became increasingly convinced that a wipeout in November would also drown their down-ballot contests as well.
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Exclusive: Trump responds to Biden dropping out
From CNN's Kaitlan Collins
In a phone call with CNN minutes after President Joe Biden announced his exit from the 2024 race, former President Donald Trump described Biden going “down as the single worst president by far in the history of our country.”
While it’s unclear who the Democratic nominee will be, Trump said he thinks Vice President Kamala Harris will be easier to defeat than Biden would have been.
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NRCC chairman describes Biden's decision as a "scandal of historic proportions"
From CNN's Manu Raju
The head of the House GOP’s campaign arm, Richard Hudson, called President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of the presidential campaign a “scandal of historic proportions.”
“Our president is incapacitated, Democrats knew, and they lied to the American people to cover it up. Voters will neither forgive nor forget the ultimate betrayal of their trust,” he said.
Hudson questioned the ability of Biden to continue the remainder of his presidential campaign.
“If the president is mentally unfit to campaign, he is mentally unfit to have the nuclear codes. Every House Democrat must now answer: is the president fit to serve the rest of his term?”
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Biden announces he will not seek reelection
From CNN's Sam Fossum
President Joe Biden speaks at a press conference in Woodside, California, on November 15, 2023.
Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images/File
President Joe Biden announced he will not seek reelection amid continued pressure following a disastrous debate performance last month that left many in his party questioning whether he should continue to seek reelection. He will serve out the remainder of his term.
He added: “I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision.”
“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President,” he wrote.
This post has been updated with additional updates on Biden’s announcement.
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Biden’s top brass signals intent to press forward, even as calls grow for the president to step aside
From CNN's MJ Lee and Dana Bash
President Joe Biden’s high command is projecting a determination to press forward with the president’s reelection campaign, even as Democrats’ public calls on Biden to drop out of the race grow by the day.
Those calls were joined Sunday by independent Sen. Joe Manchin, who echoed other lawmakers in encouraging Biden to “pass the torch” to a new generation of leadership.
But when the co-chairs of the president’s campaign held a call Saturday, there was no discussion at all of the president leaving the race, sources said. Among those on the call was Rep. Jim Clyburn, who on Sunday told CNN that Democrats need to look for ways to “coalesce” around Biden.
Some background: CNN reported Thursday night that senior-most West Wing advisers have not discussed — among themselves or with the president — the possibility of Biden abandoning his candidacy. A senior adviser told CNN that still remained true as of Sunday afternoon.
But in interviews with CNN, more than two dozen sources familiar with the dynamics inside the West Wing and campaign said there is now privately widespread acceptance that Biden remaining in the 2024 race is wholly untenable.
The president has been isolating at his home in Rehoboth Beach as he recovers from Covid-19. His longtime aide Steve Ricchetti is among the advisers in Delaware this weekend, per a White House official.
More from Biden’s team: Biden campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond reiterated Sunday that the president intends to accept the Democratic nomination and see his reelection bid through.
CNN’s Ebony Davis contributed reporting to this post.
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House speaker echoes right-wing suggestion that diversity is to blame for Trump security failings
From CNN's Jalen Beckford
House Speaker Mike Johnson speaks at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, on July 15.
Bernadette Tuazon/CNN
House Speaker Mike Johnson on Sunday said the Secret Service’s job is “protection, not diversity,” echoing recent right-wing criticism of female Secret Service agents following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump last weekend.
Following the shooting, CNN reported some right-wing media figures focused their attention on female agents on stage with Trump, claiming they couldn’t properly protect someone bigger and taller than themselves, or that they didn’t act in a professional manner.
At odds with Trump’s messaging: Johnson’s remarks come even as the Trump campaign has denounced the sentiment.
Top Trump adviser Chris LaCivita, who attended Trump’s Saturday rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan, told CNN:
“I saw two women — one of them with a gun in her hand and the other with her body around him — that’s pretty f***ing badass where I come from,” LaCivita added.
Forceful rejection: Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas issued a joint statement with DHS senior officials Saturday condemning the attacks.
“These assertions are baseless and insulting,” the officials said in a joint statement. “They are highly trained and skilled professionals, who risk their lives on the front lines for the safety and security of others. They are brave and selfless patriots who deserve our gratitude and respect.”
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Sen. Manchin calls on Biden to "pass the torch to a new generation"
From CNN's Aileen Graef and Antoinette Radford
Sen. Joe Manchin speaks during a Senate hearing in Washington, DC, on June 4.
Allison Bailey/Middle East Images/Getty Images
Independent Sen. Joe Manchin has said it is time for President Joe Biden to “pass the torch,” joining the growing calls from members of Biden’s own party to step aside in the 2024 presidential race.
Manchin said he hoped the transfer of power could be done “in the most respectful way.”
The independent senator said campaigning is an “unbelievable” mental and physical challenge “to anybody,” and said he wanted the president to instead focus his energy on seeing out the last five months of his term. Manchin said Biden can use that time to “unite our country, to calm down the rhetoric and be able focus his attention to peace in the world.”
On potential replacements: Manchin said he hoped there would be an “open process” to pick a new nominee if Biden stepped down. He said he favored governors as potential replacements, because they “can’t afford” to be partisan as the leaders of a state.
Manchin floated Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as potential options. The two governors are on a long list of names considered in Democratic circles.
About Biden’s mental capacity: When asked by Tapper if he had noticed any changes to President Biden’s mental cognition, Manchin responded: “I have not.” He disputed any suggestion he had noticed a difference with how the president was behaving in recent months, saying, “I’ve not had that problem whatsoever.”
Some background: Manchin and Biden’s relationship has frayed over the course of the Biden presidency, during which the centrist Manchin has served as a key roadblock on some of the president’s legislative priorities, and switched his party affiliation from Democrat to independent.
This post has been updated with more of Manchin’s comments from the interview.
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Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips supports a secret "vote of confidence" on Biden
From CNN's Sam Fossum
Rep. Dean Phillips holds a rally in Concord, New Hampshire, in October 2023.
Gaelen Morse/Getty Images
Minnesota Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips, who mounted a primary bid against President Joe Biden earlier this year, called for members of his party in Congress to hold a secret ballot to see whether a majority of them still support the president continuing his bid for reelection.
Phillips said he believes the majority of the Congress does not support Biden staying in the race.
He also wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal pushing for the confidence vote idea, which was published Sunday morning.
“If ‘confidence’ wins, we must immediately and aggressively mobilize behind Mr. Biden and redouble efforts to secure a majority in at least one chamber of Congress. But if “no confidence” is the consensus, the president must end his candidacy,” he argues in the piece.
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Eric Trump calls for Secret Service director to resign over assassination attempt
From CNN's Ebony Davis
Eric Trump and Donald Trump attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, on July 16.
Marco Bello/Reuters
Eric Trump on Sunday called for Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to resign following last weekend’s assassination attempt of Donald Trump, as she faces a flurry of questions about how a gunman was able to get a clear line of sight to the former president at a rally site in Butler, Pennsylvania.
“The fact that the Biden administration could allow a former president, and very likely a future president, to take a bullet through the ear and there is no accountability and a person still in their job just shows how disgraceful and inept the administration is,” Eric Trump said.
Some background: Cheatle will face Congress in hearings about the shooting this week. She has said the Secret Service was “solely responsible” for security at the rally, and that both internal and external reviews are underway.
CNN previously reported that Trump’s security detail had complained they were not being given enough resources and personnel by the Secret Service over the past two years, and the agency acknowledged Saturday it denied some requests.
A spokesperson for the Secret Service said in a statement that the agency has not provided certain resources in the past but has instead provided other security measures, including from local partners.
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Rep. Clyburn offers Biden support at critical time, as pressure builds for the president to step aside
From CNN's Sam Fossum
President Joe Biden presents Rep. Jim Clyburn with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in Washington, DC, on May 3.
Andrew Cabellero-Reynolds/AFP/Getty Images
Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn, a close friend of President Joe Biden and co-chair of his reelection bid, offered him support at a critical time Sunday.
Pressed on whether it’s in the best interest of the party for Biden to remain in the race, Clyburn slammed the idea of an open party convention, where candidates would compete for the nomination. He warned that previous elections in modern history with a contested convention have led to Democrats losing in November.
Asked if Biden is the best person that Democrats can put forward, Clyburn said again that he will stand with the incumbent as long as he stays in the race.
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Democratic delegate says skipping over Harris if Biden steps down would be "political malpractice"
From CNN's Ebony Davis
Democratic delegate and Biden-Harris National Finance Committee member Lindy Li on Sunday said it’s not her place to tell President Joe Biden to step aside, but Vice President Kamala Harris would be an “excellent candidate.”
Skipping over the vice president as a replacement option would be “political malpractice,” Li said on “Fox News Sunday.”
“She didn’t take any questions and I think she spoke for about four or five minutes. I think people were expecting more of an interactive conversation, but I understand that she’s busy. She just raised $2 million just yesterday,” Li said, alluding to a Massachusetts fundraiser Harris headlined.
Potential replacement: If Biden did pull out of the race, many Democrats say the party is coming to a consensus that Harris should be the nominee.
When Harris took the stage in Massachusetts yesterday, she was greeted with notable excitement from the crowd, who clearly believed they might be looking at a replacement nominee, CNN’s Edward-Isaac Dovere reports.
Anxious donors: Li said campaign contributions are starting to dry up due to the turmoil.
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House Oversight chair promises detailed and extensive hearing with Secret Service director
From CNN's Aileen Graef
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle attends a news conference on June 4, in Chicago.
Charles Rex Arbogast/AP
House Oversight Chairman James Comer previewed his committee’s hearing with United States Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle Monday, promising a thorough questioning in the wake of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
The Kentucky Republican lawmaker said one of the subjects that will be top of mind is recent reporting that Trump’s security team was denied extra resources when requested, despite previous statements from the Secret Service to the contrary.
“There aren’t that many people that require Secret Service protection. There aren’t that many events that the Secret Service have to secure. So, the budget is more than enough to provide adequate protection for the presidential candidates,” Comer claimed.
The hearing with Cheatle is scheduled for Monday at 10 a.m. ET.
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Trump's conviction in the hush money case drove June donations to a new high
From CNN's Fredreka Schouten, David Wright and Alex Leeds Matthews
Former President Donald Trump leaves the courtroom after being found guilty in his hush money trial on May 30, in New York.
Seth Wenig/Pool/Getty Images
Although US President Joe Biden outraised his Republican rival former President Donald Trump last month, filings in recent days underscore how much Trump has seized on his legal troubles as a fundraising tool.
Contributions to his political operation soared on the day of his conviction in the New York hush money case on May 30 – when three joint fundraising committees reported receiving $19 million in donations above $200, according to a CNN analysis of filings in recent days with the Federal Election Commission.
Trump was convicted by a Manhattan jury on 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to an adult film star. He and his allies have sought to characterize the conviction as politically motivated.
May 30 marked the strongest fundraising day of the year for Trump through June 30, the analysis shows.
Here’s what that looks like compared to other days in the year:
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On Saturday, Trump held his first rally since the assassination attempt: Here's what happened
From CNN staff
Donald Trump walks off stage after speaking at a campaign rally on July 20, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Donald Trump was joined by his newly minted running mate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, on Saturday at the former president’s first campaign rally since the attempt to assassinate him last weekend.
The two were greeted by an amped up crowd at an indoor arena in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Here’s what happened:
New running mate: Vance, who fired up the crowd ahead of Trump’s remarks, said, “I gotta be honest, it’s still a little bit weird seeing my name on those signs,” referring to the Trump-Vance campaign material waving behind him in the audience.
Vance defended his loyalty to the US, after Vice President Kamala Harris said he “will be loyal only to Trump, not to our country.”
Before the vice presidency, Harris was the district attorney of San Francisco, California’s attorney general, and then the state’s junior senator.
Vance later came back out to introduce Trump for a roaring crowd.
On the rally shooting: Trump, who wore a smaller, beige-colored bandage on his ear, said he “took a bullet for democracy.”
The former president, who spoke for nearly two hours, thanked the staff at Butler Memorial Hospital, where he was taken minutes after the shooting at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Trump noted in his first joint interview with Vance that people at his rally last weekend noticed there was someone on the roof before the assassination attempt.
Support from Musk: Trump said he spoke to tech billionaire Elon Musk before coming to the Grand Rapids rally. The former president said Musk didn’t mention reporting from The Wall Street Journal that he will be committing around $45 million a month to a pro-Trump super PAC.
About world leaders: Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping and other world leaders wrote to him after the assassination attempt. He said he “got along very well with President Xi, who’s a great guy,” and claimed that he worked well with other world leaders, too, even though they understood during his presidency that the “jig was up” in terms of taking advantage of the US on a world stage.
Biden campaign’s response: President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign blasted Trump’s remarks at the rally, saying Trump is “focused only on himself.”
“He’s peddling the same lies, running the same campaign of revenge and retribution, touting the same failed policies, and – as usual – focused only on himself. The only unity we saw today was between Donald Trump, JD Vance, and their Project 2025 agenda,” Biden campaign spokesperson Ammar Moussa said in a statement.
Project 2025 refers to the policy blueprint created by a conservative think tank. Democrats have latched on to some of the document’s controversial right-wing proposals, while Trump has tried to distance himself from the platform, despite dozens of people from his former administration having a hand in its creation.
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Secret Service says it denied Trump additional resources in recent years even as his team complained
From CNN's Kristen Holmes and Holmes Lybrand
Secret Service agents cover former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13.
Evan Vucci/AP
Former President Donald Trump’s security detail had complained they were not being given enough resources and personnel by the Secret Service over the past two years, and the agency acknowledged Saturday it denied some requests.
A spokesperson for the Secret Service said in a statement that the agency has not provided certain resources in the past, but has instead provided other security measures, including from local partners.
The news comes amid widespread concerns about how a sniper was able to obtain rooftop access roughly 150 meters from Trump’s position at an outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, last weekend.
The Washington Post and The New York Times reported earlier Saturday that the Secret Service denied previous request from Trump’s security team over the past two years.
Some close to the former president felt the decisions, which they believed were personal to Trump, came from the top ranks of the agency.
While Trump holds close relationships with members of his Secret Service detail, the relationship between those agents and the upper ranks of the agency has been tense for some time, according to multiple sources familiar with the dynamic.
Swing-district Republican defends support for Trump
From CNN's Morgan Rimmer
Rep. Anthony D'Esposito speaks to reporters during a press conference in September 2023, in Washington, DC.
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Vulnerable GOP Rep. Anthony D’Esposito defended his support for former President Donald Trump, despite President Joe Biden’s dominant win in his district in 2020, during an interview with CNN’s Manu Raju at the Republican National Convention.
“I was raised that when you’re part of the team, you’re part of the team, and I think that I have shown that,” said the New York Republican.
D’Esposito’s comments underscore how Republicans in tough races have calculated that it makes sense politically to tie themselves to Trump despite his many controversies — especially given how Democrats are running away from Biden in droves.
Pressed on whether he is concerned that having a convicted felon at the top of the ticket, who has been found liable for rape, and whether it could drive away suburban voters in his district, D’Esposito replied:
He argued that his record proves he is not the extremist his opponents say he is, and that he can work well with his Democratic colleagues, pointing to his support for one IVF bill, and his opposition to language restricting the abortion pill mifepristone in other legislation.
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Energized crowd greets Harris at Massachusetts fundraiser
From CNN's Edward-Isaac Dovere
Defending President Joe Biden and ripping into Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris got one of her most roaring responses in years as she spoke at a fundraiser Saturday afternoon in Provincetown, Massachusetts.
The vice president didn’t directly address the turmoil facing her running mate — whom she referred to at points as “our president” and “one of the most consequential presidents in American history” — but she did speak to the anxiety pulsing through the white tent in the shadow of the Pilgrim Monument by repeating, “We are going to win this election,” and asking the crowd to tell that to their friends.
The event was scheduled weeks ago, in very different political circumstances. By the time she took the stage, Harris was greeted with the excitement of many in the crowd who clearly believed they might be looking at a replacement nominee and, soon, potential next president.
A $1 million fundraising goal for the afternoon was more than doubled. A woman shouting out, “Go get ‘em, Kamala!” was greeted with a huge cheer and applause.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg — who is seen by some leading Democrats as a potential running mate, should Harris become the nominee — spoke before Harris and also received a warm reception from the crowd.
The informal conversations about how a fight to replace Biden at the top of the ticket would play out have been raging for weeks behind the scenes. But uncertainty about the process has been so unclear it’s given multiple Democrats — even those with serious concerns about Biden — pause about coming out against the president’s candidacy, given that what comes next could be even messier.
Internal polls that show Harris would at least be more helpful to boosting Democratic enthusiasm and aiding down ballot races are getting passed around. Arguments that she would be fastest to put together a campaign are landing harder. Daydreams of her making a more active and vigorous case against Donald Trump are taking root.
Many are deliberately holding off talking about hypotheticals as Biden aides say he plans to get back on the campaign trail next week once he recovers from Covid-19. But if that suddenly changes, two dozen leading Democratic politicians and operatives told CNN, they can’t realistically see this ending any other way.
Efforts to fight misinformation and deepfakes in swing states ramp up ahead of election
From CNN's Shania Shelton
Voting booths are seen at a polling station in New York on April 2.
Adam Gray/Reuters
A soldier in a war zone. Band members playing in the street. A smiling selfie.
When audience members during an event at the Republican National Convention were asked on Monday to raise their hand if they thought these images were artificially generated, several participants were able to correctly guess which images were real, while others were left stumped.
Microsoft experts Ginny Badanes and Ashley O’Rourke walked the audience through common signs of deepfakes, methods of labeling content, tips on making a plan to fight back against deepfakes and ways to report at a time when state and local governments and political parties are working to address misinformation head on.
Badanes said one of the reasons they do these trainings, which was hosted by the organization All in Together and presented by Microsoft, is so that those who are involved in the political process are tracking deepfakes and thinking through what they would do if something happened involving their candidate or organization.
O’Rourke said some of the most compelling and believable deepfakes are of local officials and candidates for office rather than candidates on a federal level.
As the first presidential election since the growth of sophisticated AI draws nearer, election offices and lawmakers in swing states have been preparing to fight back against potential misinformation.
Homeland Security head calls out right-wing media attacks on female agents after assassination attempt
From CNN's Samantha Waldenberg and Priscilla Alvarez
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas speaks at a press briefing in Washington, DC, on July 15.
Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, along with other senior DHS officials, called attacks on women in law enforcement in the wake of last week’s assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump “baseless and insulting.”
The statement is co-signed by other department heads of DHS agencies, including Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle.
Debris litters the empty rally site after shots were fired at former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13.
Evan Vucci/AP
Some context: CNN previously reported that in the wake of the Saturday shooting, some right-wing media figures focused their attention on the female agents on stage with Trump, claiming they couldn’t properly protect someone bigger and taller than themselves, or that they didn’t act in a professional manner.
Edited videos that have garnered millions of views on social media as supposed evidence of their claims, showed a female Secret Service agent seemingly struggling to holster her gun amid the chaotic scene as a group of agents escorted Trump to his motorcade.
Right-wing critics have also targeted Cheatle’s leadership, saying she was only appointed because of diversity initiatives.
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Analysis: Why the 2024 election could again come down to relatively few voters in relatively few states
Analysis from CNN's Zachary B. Wolf and Renée Rigdon
Anyone who pays any attention to US politics is bound to hear some version of this claim: The 2024 election, which will pick a president for a nation of more than 330 million people, will be decided by a small number of voters in a few key states.
Despite calls for President Joe Biden to step aside from the race and an attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, “I still think that this is a race where we are not going to see the polls move outside a pretty narrow window,” Republican pollster Kristen Soltis Anderson said on CNN during coverage of the Republican National Convention.
A dozen states were decided by 5 percentage points or less in either the 2016 or 2020 presidential election. In CNN’s 2024 race ratings, Maine is the only one of these states rated as solidly in one party’s corner, but one congressional district within Maine is classified as a toss-up. The other 11 states are seen as competitive in the 2024 election.
