Many Democratic leaders in D.C., Maryland and Virginia are thanking President Joe Biden and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for president after Biden suddenly withdrew from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday.
Reactions from lawmakers across the DMV poured in following Biden's announcement.
Many leaders commended Biden on his years of public service, and some praised him for putting the well-being of the nation before himself by dropping out.
“My gratitude and prayers are with President Biden,” wrote D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser in a post on X. “His selfless decision today truly put America first. Thank you Mr. President.”
Republican candidate for U.S. Senate and former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan shared a similar sentiment.
“I believe he made the right decision for his family and the country,” he wrote on X. “These are dangerous and unprecedented times. He should be commended for putting the country ahead of personal ambition.”
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore praised Biden as he endorsed Harris on Monday, saying she has a unique ability to energize the Democratic Party.
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"The American people deserve a champion who will continue the progress of the Biden-Harris administration, and that's why I am proud to voice my full support and offer my full endorsement to Vice President Kamala Harris," Moore said in a statement posted on X. "Vice President Harris has the experience, record, vision and wisdom to unify the country."
Moore said Harris was one of the first people to call him after the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed earlier this year, showing leadership and empathy.
The Maryland Democratic Delegation unanimously agreed to endorse Harris on Monday and announced delegates going to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago will vote for Harris, according to a press release.
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who's backing former President Donald Trump in the 2024 race, took aim at the "Biden/Harris Administration's weak leadership" in a post on X.
"It’s time for our nation to now come together with resolve to secure our borders, structure safe communities, grow an economy that lifts up all Americans and restores peace through strength," Youngkin said.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland applauded Biden and his long political career on Sunday. A day later, he endorsed Harris.
“Over the last four years – and throughout his decades of prior service – he has delivered on behalf of the American people, working to better the lives of millions, while never forgetting where he came from and who he was fighting for,” Van Hollen said in a statement Sunday.
On Monday, Van Hollen said: "Kamala Harris has fought tirelessly to advance the aspirations of every American and build an inclusive economy that supports working Americans, families, and seniors. Having served with her in the Senate, and worked closely together during her time as Vice President, I've seen firsthand that she has what it takes to defeat Trump this November and to continue moving our nation forward. The stakes for our democracy could not be higher – and I'm committed to working alongside Vice President Harris to get the job done."
Virginia Rep. Don Beyer called Biden “a great American.”
“Today he made a hard decision few others could have made, showed his character, and put his country first,” Beyer said in a statement. “I am proud of my support for Joe Biden, and proud of his patriotism.”
Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia likened Biden’s decision to “the same patriotism that George Washington and Teddy Roosevelt demonstrated when they selflessly put their country above their own political ambitions” in a statement.
In Virginia, state Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, President Louise Lucas and the rest of the Senate Democratic caucus endorsed Harris.
Some leaders also endorsed Harris and emphasized beating Trump as a priority.
“I’m looking forward to working with my friend Kamala Harris and a great ticket mate to keep Virginia blue so that we can continue to build on our progress,” Kaine said.
“While there has to be an orderly process and the decision ultimately rests in the hands of the DNC delegates, I believe Vice President Harris has the experience, energy, and resolve to lead our nation,” said Virginia Sen. Mark Warner in a statement. “This November, we must defeat Donald Trump and his backwards agenda.”
Prince George’s County Executive and Maryland Democratic candidate for Senate Angela Alsobrooks also endorsed Harris and emphasized the differences in Harris’ and Trump’s platforms.
“She will provide a clear and stark contrast to the regressive vision Donald Trump has for this country,” Alsobrooks said in a statement. “She will make this race about the future and the kind of country our children deserve to inherit. Each and every one of us deserves that kind of leader.”
Beyer also showed support for Harris and said he will support her through a fair nomination process.
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