President Joe Biden announced he was withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday, July 21. The decision was shared publicly just one minute after his senior staff was informed at 1:45 p.m.
Despite planning future campaign events and fundraisers, Biden had been privately reconsidering his candidacy. His decision was made quietly from his Rehoboth Beach vacation home while he was recovering from COVID-19, with close aides and his wife, Jill, present.
Senator Chris Coons noted that Biden’s decision was difficult, as he initially wanted to continue and defeat Donald Trump but ultimately felt stepping down was best for the country. Biden spent Saturday night writing a letter to the American people and discussed his decision with Vice President Kamala Harris, whom he endorsed as his successor.
The decision came after a troubled period marked by doubts about his ability to win reelection, particularly following a poor debate performance on June 27. Despite efforts to overcome criticism, including concerns about his age and effectiveness, Biden eventually concluded it was time to step aside.
Biden’s campaign staff and senior advisers were surprised by the sudden shift. After the announcement, Biden’s campaign website and materials were updated to support Harris’s candidacy. The transition was communicated clearly, with staff reassured about their roles in supporting Harris’s campaign.
By Sunday evening, the Biden for President campaign was officially rebranded as Harris for President.