Joe Biden has withdrawn from the US presidential election and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party's new nominee, shaking up the 2024 race for the White House. Biden, 81, cited the "best interest of my party and the country" after a disastrous June debate against Donald Trump raised concerns about his age and mental fitness.

This unexpected move has thrown Democrats into turmoil ahead of the November 5 election but could also rejuvenate the party. Harris, aiming to become America's first woman president, swiftly confirmed her goal to "defeat Donald Trump."

Trump reacted on Truth Social, claiming that if Biden is unfit to run, he is also unfit to serve. This shift disrupts the Republicans, whose campaign focused on Biden, now pitting the 78-year-old Trump against a much younger opponent.

Biden's withdrawal, anticipated for some time, was announced without warning as he recovered from Covid at his Delaware beach house. In a letter on X, he called his presidency the "greatest honor" and will address the nation later this week. He pledged his full support for Harris, with his campaign rebranding to "Harris for President."

Endorsements for Harris poured in from Democratic leaders and potential rivals like California Governor Gavin Newsom. The Democratic fundraising group ActBlue reported Harris received $27.5 million in small-donor contributions within five hours.

Democrats must now confirm a new candidate at their convention in Chicago on August 19. Harris praised Biden's "selfless and patriotic act" and vowed to "earn and win" the nomination. Former President Barack Obama cautioned that "uncharted waters" lie ahead.

Biden's decision followed weeks of isolation due to Covid. First Lady Jill Biden simply reposted his statement with two hearts. Trump's new running mate J.D. Vance emphasized Harris's close association with Biden, whom he called "the worst president in my lifetime."

Joe Biden has withdrawn from the US presidential election and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party's new nominee, shaking up the 2024 race for the White House. Biden, 81, cited the "best interest of my party and the country" after a disastrous June debate against Donald Trump raised concerns about his age and mental fitness.

This unexpected move has thrown Democrats into turmoil ahead of the November 5 election but could also rejuvenate the party. Harris, aiming to become America's first woman president, swiftly confirmed her goal to "defeat Donald Trump."

Trump reacted on Truth Social, claiming that if Biden is unfit to run, he is also unfit to serve. This shift disrupts the Republicans, whose campaign focused on Biden, now pitting the 78-year-old Trump against a much younger opponent.

Biden's withdrawal, anticipated for some time, was announced without warning as he recovered from Covid at his Delaware beach house. In a letter on X, he called his presidency the "greatest honor" and will address the nation later this week. He pledged his full support for Harris, with his campaign rebranding to "Harris for President."

Endorsements for Harris poured in from Democratic leaders and potential rivals like California Governor Gavin Newsom. The Democratic fundraising group ActBlue reported Harris received $27.5 million in small-donor contributions within five hours.

Democrats must now confirm a new candidate at their convention in Chicago on August 19. Harris praised Biden's "selfless and patriotic act" and vowed to "earn and win" the nomination. Former President Barack Obama cautioned that "uncharted waters" lie ahead.

Biden's decision followed weeks of isolation due to Covid. First Lady Jill Biden simply reposted his statement with two hearts. Trump's new running mate J.D. Vance emphasized Harris's close association with Biden, whom he called "the worst president in my lifetime."