Nearly one month after a debate performance that left many in the Democratic Party questioning whether his age would be an impediment to his reelection campaign and effectively finishing out a second term, President Joe Biden graciously dropped out of the 2024 presidential race on Sunday. Biden’s decision seemingly echoes Lyndon Johnson’s decision not to run for a second term during a tumultuous period domestically and internationally. Despite this slightly awkward exit, it is worthwhile to take a moment to reflect on arguably the most progressive presidency since LBJ or President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal Era.
Joe Biden has successfully passed some of the most progressive legislation in the modern era of politics. From being the most pro-union president in history by marching in a picket line and appointing strong leaders to the National Labor Relations Board, to lowering drug prices for seniors,his administration has empowered working class Americans by consistently working to lower inflation and create a business environment that has sustained a historically low unemployment rate. Following the disastrous Trump presidency in which the current GOP was able to ideologically hijack the American judiciary with far-right and often unqualified appointments, Biden started to swing the pendulum back to the center with a reinvigorated focus on judicial appointments from SCOTUS on down. On that note, the appointment of the first black woman to the Supreme Court in Ketanji Brown Jackson was historic and will inspire many more young people to fight for justice and equality.
Biden and Congress stood up for veterans by passing the PACT Act which provided healthcare and benefits to those exposed to toxic chemicals. They passed the enormous Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that continues to improve our roads, tunnels, bridges, railways, and water systems. They passed the CHIPS and Science Act that lowers costs for consumers and brings back good-paying union jobs to America. Biden supported our ally in Ukraine and has helped lead the expansion of NATO during a time of international crisis. And even when it was tough, he ended the war in Afghanistan.
Despite his record of accomplishments, at this pivotal moment in history, it is time for a new generation of leadership.
To preserve our democracy and defeat the looming authoritarianism that a second Trump Presidency represents, we need a Democratic candidate who can take on the challenge head on. As of today, it appears that Vice President Kamala Harris represents our best shot at doing that.
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Harris has an extensive resume from her time as Attorney General in California to being a national leader in the US Senate. As a progressive, I view the potential of a Harris Presidency as a major opportunity to foster a bold agenda that works for everyday Americans of all backgrounds. I believe she represents a leader who will unite with our allies abroad while also treating all people with dignity and respect. Her approach to the Middle East in particular, I look to as a marked improvement even compared to Joe Biden. Her 2020 campaign showed her tenacity and in the 4 years since then, she has represented America across the globe with dignity and strength.
While the Biden/Harris Presidency wasn’t perfect (no presidency ever is), I believe Vice President Kamala Harris can lead a ticket for Democrats and all Americans to be proud of. I know that I want the former Attorney General to go toe to toe with the convicted felon (Trump) in November. That does not mean there is no risk in this decision. Many may point out that Harris is Black woman and that may present unique hurdles to victory in November, and to that I say, “bring it on.” We are living through unprecedented times, so it is appropriate that Vice President Harris can and, hopefully will, make history by becoming our nation’s first woman president.
President Biden has announced his public support for Vice President Harris which ultimately will put the overwhelming majority of Democratic delegates behind her. Practically and pragmatically, I believe that this is the best move as it will transfer all campaign funds and staff to her rather than another candidate having to start from scratch. This will also likely avoid further infighting and signal to the American people that the Democratic Party is unified and ready heading into November. The Democratic bench is strong, and selecting a vice-presidential candidate warrants its own discussion, but tapping either PA Governor Josh Shapiro or Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer are both viable options that will help secure key swing states.
As we move forward, we must stand united to achieve our goals both at home and abroad. Together, we can ensure the American Dream lives for generations to come. Let us strive for a brighter future with compassion and hope, rather than succumb to fear and despair. I love this country, and I will support the Democratic candidate in November who embodies the ideals and attributes to bring us together again and I believe that Vice President Kamala Harris can do just that. May we rise to the occasion, uphold our values, and work tirelessly to create a greater tomorrow for all Americans.
