Biden Ends Re-election Bid, Endorses Harris as Presidential Nominee.

US President Joe Biden has announced that he is ending his re-election bid and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. Biden, 81, will complete his current term and is expected to address the nation later this week.

Biden’s decision follows increased calls for him to step aside after a lackluster debate performance against former President Donald Trump last month. First Lady Jill Biden expressed her unwavering support, stating she stands by her husband “whatever road he chose” and remains his “biggest believer,” according to her spokeswoman.

Vice President Harris, honored by Biden’s endorsement, vowed to “earn and win” the nomination. If successful, Harris would make history as the first Black woman and first Asian American to lead a major political party’s ticket. In preparation for her campaign, the Biden-Harris campaign has updated its filings with the Federal Election Commission to rename its principal committee and officially declare Harris a presidential candidate.

A substantial number of Senate Democrats have rallied behind Harris, with at least 27 out of the 51 senators who caucus with the Democrats, including four independents, publicly endorsing her candidacy. However, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin have not yet endorsed Harris. Additionally, around 60 House Democrats have also pledged their support.

Despite Biden’s endorsement, media reports suggest that Harris’s path to the nomination is not guaranteed. The party’s process for selecting an alternative nominee remains unclear, and there are indications that Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, an independent, might re-register as a Democrat to run for president.