Top Democrats OMIT Kamala Harris from statements praising Joe Biden
President Joe Biden may have endorsed his VP to replace him in November, but the nation’s highest-ranking elected Democrats have not come out behind her yet.
Biden sent shockwaves through Washington when he announced he would not be running for reelection in November. He quickly threw his weight behind Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place.
‘America is a better place today because President Joe Biden has led us with intellect, grace and dignity. We are forever grateful,’ House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement that made no mention of Harris.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement: ‘Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader but he’s a truly amazing human being. His decision of course was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.’
‘Joe, today shows you are a true patriot and great American.’
In a fawning tribute to her longtime friend, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi also made no mention of Harris.
‘America is a better place today because President Joe Biden has led us with intellect, grace and dignity. We are forever grateful,’ House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement that made no mention of Vice President Kamala Harris
‘President Joe Biden is a patriotic American who has always put our country first. His legacy of vision, values and leadership make him one of the most consequential Presidents in American history.’
It’s unclear whether these top Democrats are trying to give Biden his moment after what was surely one of the most difficult decisions of his life, or they’re having doubts about the viability of Harris as a candidate.
Jaime Harrison, chair of the Democratic National Committee where a candidate will be formally nominated, did not mention Harris in his own statement.
He promised to give more information soon on what the nominating process would look like. The Democratic National Convention is less than a month away and will begin on August 19.
‘Our delegates are prepared to take seriously their responsibility in swiftly delivering a candidate,’ he said. ‘In short order, the American people will hear from the Democratic Party on next steps and the path forward for the nomination process.’
Bill and Hillary Clinton came out behind Harris in a statement after Biden did so.
President Barack Obama made no mention of her.
Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat running a tough reelection race in Wisconsin in November, did the same. ‘Today I’m proud to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States.’
Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., a top Biden ally, also came out behind Harris.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement: ‘Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader but he’s a truly amazing human being’
President Joe Biden may have endorsed his VP to replace him in November, but the nation’s highest-ranking elected Democrats have not come out behind her yet
‘Democrats must immediately unite so we can focus on winning in November,’ Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the House Progressive Caucus co-chair, wrote on X. ‘I look forward to casting my vote for Kamala Harris and doing everything I can to ensure she becomes our next president.
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair, Rep. Nanette Barragan, came out behind Harris on Sunday.
‘I am with you [Biden] – I endorse [Harris] as our Democratic nominee & will work tirelessly to make sure she is elected our next President in November. Thank you Mr. President for your lifetime of service to this country & the American people.’
The Congressional Black Caucus, led by Reps. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., and Steven Horsford, D-Nevada, also came out behind Harris- as did the Asian and Pacific American Caucus.
