Joe Biden has decided to withdraw from the presidential race following weeks of controversy about his mental acuity.
The 81-year-old initially resisted calls to step down, asserting he was the best candidate to challenge Donald Trump. However, pressure from donors, party members, and influential figures eventually led to his decision to end his candidacy.
Calls for Biden to exit intensified after his disastrous debate performance against Trump on June 27, where he struggled to maintain coherence.
With Biden’s departure, the Democratic National Convention, starting August 19, will now determine his replacement. Delegates will formally select the party’s nominee, a process that may involve virtual events and roll-call votes.
Having amassed nearly all of the party’s delegates during the primary, Biden’s endorsement of Kamala Harris could influence delegate decisions, though they are now free to support other candidates.
Potential successors like Gretchen Whitmer and Gavin Newsom may seek support from party leaders to secure the nomination, with Harris insisting on fair consideration as the first Black woman vice president.
The fate of Biden’s substantial campaign funds, totaling $91 million, remains a critical issue. While legally tied to both Biden and Harris, experts suggest Harris could inherit these funds if she remains on the ticket.
Replacing Biden so close to the election poses logistical challenges, including legal hurdles in states where he’s already on the ballot. Ohio and Alabama have adjusted deadlines to accommodate a new nominee, easing some obstacles.
Overall, Biden’s withdrawal reshapes the Democratic race, potentially leading to a contested convention if no candidate secures a majority on the first ballot.
