Following President Joe Biden’s decision to end his bid for reelection amid intense pressure from scores of his own party leaders, the focus is now on Chicago, where the Democratic National Convention (DNC) is set to commence next month.
Contents
Biden Steps Down
In a letter addressed to Americans on Sunday, Biden, 81, stated, “I believe it is in the best interest of my party and my country for me to stand down and to focus solely on my duties as President for the rest of my term.” This decision came after Biden faced significant pressure following his poor performance in the June 27 debate against former President Donald Trump.
The Republican National Convention recently concluded in Milwaukee, where Trump formally accepted the party’s nomination and announced Ohio Sen. JD Vance as his running mate.
Key Details of the 2024 DNC
When and Where:
- The DNC is scheduled for August 19 through August 22.
- It will be held in Chicago, marking the first convention there since 1996, when former President Bill Clinton was nominated for his second term.
Purpose:
Delegates from each state and U.S. territory will gather to officially nominate the Democratic presidential and vice-presidential candidates for the 2024 election based on primary election results.
Potential Nominees
Biden’s announcement to drop out came just over 100 days before the November 5 election, during which he planned to take on Trump. The president officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the next Democratic nominee. Consequently, the Biden for President campaign has been rebranded to the Harris for President campaign, enabling Harris to assume control of Biden’s campaign funds and begin raising money for her own bid.
Former President Barack Obama praised Biden’s decision, stating that he selflessly put America’s interests ahead of his own, although he did not mention Harris in his statement. In a phone interview with CNN, Trump expressed his expectation to run against Harris and predicted a victory.
Other Contenders:
- California Gov. Gavin Newsom
- Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
- Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
- Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker
- Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro
- Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg
All these individuals have been supporters and surrogates for Biden, working towards his reelection.
Remaining Candidates:
Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN) dropped out after Super Tuesday, having received four delegates.
Marianne Williamson remains in the race after unsuspending her campaign in late February but has not secured any delegates.
