Biden Bows Out: Incumbent US President Withdraws From 2024 Race, Endorses VP Kamala Harris

In a much-anticipated yet delayed move, US President Joseph R Biden has announced that he is withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race against former president Donald Trump.

After announcing his decision, Biden went on to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic presidential candidate, as per a report by Hindustan Times.

Biden's decision to exit the race followed a poor debate performance against Trump and persistent criticism from the Republican Party about his “inability” to complete another term. This debate loss also led many Democrat lawmakers to urge Biden to withdraw.

According to the same report, Biden first informed Vice President Kamala Harris about his sudden change of heart as he initially insisted on staying in the race.

He also met with White House chief of staff Jeff Zients and his campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon. Zients called a meeting with Biden's campaign and White House staff at 1.45 pm, and Biden formally announced his decision at around 2.30 pm.

The decision came after extensive discussions with White House counsellor Steve Ricchetti, senior campaign adviser Mike Donilon, deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini, and senior adviser to the First Lady Anthony Bernal at Biden's vacation house.

Biden's decision was necessitated after increasing calls from within his party to step down following his debate debacle.

While Biden attributed his poor performance to jet lag and international travel, many Democrats expressed concerns about his mental acuity.

Over the past week, 36 congressional Democrats publicly called for Biden to drop out, fearing that his continued campaign could jeopardise their chances of retaining control of the White House and Congress.