Democrats applaud, Republicans fume as Joe Biden drops out to endorse Kamala Harris

Washington erupted on Sunday as President Joe Biden reversed course after weeks of calls for him to drop out and announced that he would not be the nominee for the Democratic Party in 2024.

Statements from politicians on both sides of the aisle — some clearly having been prepared for days, if not weeks — poured in as the 81-year-old Biden said that he would bow to the wishes of Democrats who feared that his campaign was heading for a historic collapse which would have dragged down-ballot Democrats into defeat this fall. Members of the president’s party applauded him and spoke glowingly of his legacy while Republicans, coming of their own nominating contest last week, called for him to step down as president immediately. Many also condemned their rivals for supposedly ignoring the will of the voters, who in actuality were never offered a real primary challenge to Biden this year.

“Joe Biden has earned his place among the best and most consequential presidents in American history,” wrote Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “I am so proud to serve under his leadership, and thankful for his unwavering focus on what is best for our country.”

Hillary and former President Bill Clinton released a joint statement endorsing Harris for the nomination.

Statement from President Clinton and Secretary Clinton pic.twitter.com/R7tYMFWbsu

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s initial statement did not mention Harris at all, but in a subsequent press release he revealed that after speaking with both Biden and Harris he’d decided to throw his support behind the vice president.

“Kamala Harris is a patriot worthy of our support and she will continue the work of generations of Americans who came before us to perfect our union, protect our