Democratic Delegates Gear Up for Pivotal Presidential Nomination Choices

WASHINGTON — Delegates from the Democratic National Convention commended President Joe Biden’s decision on Sunday to end his reelection campaign. In a swift move, several state party leaders echoed Biden’s endorsement by pledging their support to Vice President Kamala Harris.

The delegates will participate in a virtual roll call vote next month to officially choose the party’s nominee to compete against Republican Donald Trump in the November election. This nominee will be confirmed at the party’s convention on August 22.

Until recently, Biden was the presumed candidate. However, a poor performance in the June 27 debate led to intense pressure from Democratic leaders, culminating in his decision to step down on Sunday.

Shortly after his announcement, Biden endorsed Harris. By Sunday afternoon, several state delegations indicated their readiness to support her, although many state officials had yet to declare their stance.

In a statement, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison assured the public of a “transparent and orderly process” to select a candidate capable of defeating Trump. “This process will be governed by the established rules and procedures of the Party,” Harrison added.

The specifics of the nomination process remain undisclosed.

State Democratic officials almost unanimously praised Biden for his presidential achievements and decision to withdraw from the race. Many quickly backed Harris.

Alabama Democratic Party Chair Randy Kelley confirmed support for Harris. In Colorado, state Rep. Leslie Herod, a former co-chair for Harris’ 2020 campaign, also voiced her endorsement. Louisiana Democratic Party Chair Randal Gaines believes Harris will energize core voters to “unprecedented levels.”

Tennessee delegate Chip Forrester expressed his strong support for Harris, stating it would be difficult not to back her following Biden’s endorsement. In Wisconsin, all congressional Democrats endorsed Harris, although state leaders Gov. Tony Evers and Chair Ben Wikler withheld direct endorsements.

National delegate Kevin Stine from Oregon and Indiana state Sen. Karen Tallian also pledged their support for Harris, while others in Indiana’s 88 DNC delegates chose not to comment.

Not all delegates have committed to Harris. South Dakota delegates await guidance from their national party. North Dakota delegates, while praising Biden’s decision, emphasized the need for a transparent selection process. Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart emphasized party unity to defeat Trump in November.