Kathmandu: In a surprising and unprecedented turn of events, President Joe Biden has dropped out of the 2024 presidential race. The announcement, made less than four months before the election, came after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump, which amplified concerns about Biden's age and fitness for office.

Biden’s decision, announced on Sunday, immediately reshaped the electoral landscape, with Vice President Kamala Harris receiving Biden’s endorsement to lead the Democratic Party against Trump in the upcoming election. Harris, who is now the party's favored candidate, expressed her determination to unite the Democratic Party and defeat Trump’s "extreme Project 2025 agenda."

Biden’s decision follows immense pressure from Democratic allies and supporters after the June 27 debate, where his performance raised significant doubts about his ability to serve another term. In his statement, Biden emphasized his commitment to serve out the remainder of his term and endorsed Harris as his successor, urging the Democratic Party to rally behind her.

Key Points from Biden’s Announcement:
Biden’s Endorsement of Harris: Biden endorsed Harris, making her the presumptive Democratic nominee. He urged the party to come together to defeat Trump.

Historical Precedent: Biden’s withdrawal is unique, coming after significant primary victories and close to the general election, marking an unprecedented moment in American electoral history.

Harris’s Response: Harris praised Biden’s decision as a “selfless and patriotic act” and committed to earning her party’s nomination and uniting the nation.

Party Support: The Democratic Party, including the Congressional Black Caucus and the Clintons, quickly moved to support Harris. Former President Barack Obama expressed confidence in the party’s ability to select a strong nominee, though he stopped short of directly endorsing Harris.

Immediate Challenges: Harris faces the challenge of securing delegate votes, selecting a running mate, and pivoting the Biden campaign machinery to support her candidacy. She also aims to lock up endorsements from key Democratic figures and swing state leaders.

Trump’s Reaction: Trump, in a post on Truth Social, reiterated his stance on Biden’s fitness for office and emphasized the need to remedy the perceived damage caused by Biden’s presidency.

Future Campaign Efforts: Harris is expected to make significant strides in consolidating support within the Democratic Party and building momentum for the general election. She aims to leverage the Biden campaign’s resources and network to strengthen her candidacy.

The Democratic National Convention, scheduled for August 19-22 in Chicago, will now be a crucial platform for Harris to secure her party’s nomination and formally launch her campaign against Trump.

Biden’s withdrawal marks the end of his 52-year political career, as he steps aside to ensure his party has the best chance to retain the White House in November. Harris, if elected, would make history as the first woman and the first person of South Asian descent to become President of the United States.