Jul 22, 2024 - 03:37
By cbc.ca

Democrats, Republicans and others react to Biden dropping out of presidential race

U.S. President Joe Biden on Sunday ended his re-election campaign.

He said in a letter posted on X that he would remain in office until the end of his term and address the country later this week on his decision. He also endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic Party's candidate.

Below are reactions from politicians, advocacy groups, and other observers.

Donald Trump

In a phone call with CNN minutes after Biden announced his exit from the 2024 race, former president Donald Trump responded, «He is the worst president in the history of our country. He goes down as the single worst president by far in the history of our country.» Trump also said he thought Harris will be easier to defeat than Biden would have been, according to CNN.

Barack Obama

«Joe Biden has been one of America's most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we've also been reminded — again — that he's a patriot of the highest order,» the former U.S. president, under whom Biden served as vice-president, said in a statement.

Justin Trudeau

«I've known President Biden for years. He's a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country. As President, he is a partner to Canadians — and a true friend,» the Canadian prime minister said on social media.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

«We will always be thankful for President Biden's leadership,» the Ukrainian president said. «He supported our country during the most dramatic moment in history, assisted us in preventing [Russian President Vladimir] Putin from occupying our country, and has continued to support us throughout this terrible war.»