Alabama, national Democrats react to Biden not seeking re-election

Democrats in Alabama and across the U.S. Sunday afternoon praised President Joe Biden following his announcement Sunday to suspend his presidential re-election campaign.

Former Sen. Doug Jones praised Biden’s work as a public servant and also endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.

“Joe Biden has been an extraordinary public servant who I believe will be judged as one of America’s greatest Presidents,” Jones wrote on X/Twitter. “It’s been a difficult month but now it is time to unify. I am encouraging everyone to rally around @KamalaHarris as our nominee.”

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, responding on social media platform X, quickly threw his support behind Harris, saying “Let’s get to work!”:

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed thanked Biden for his “leadership and public service.”

State Sen. Merika Coleman, a Biden delegate, called Biden a “real American hero” and pledged her support to Harris.

Democratic Alabama Rep. Phillip Ensler, the executive director of the Jewish Federation of Central Alabama, immediately threw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

Former President Bill Clinton, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, praised Biden for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic, and endorsed Harris, pledging support for her.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Biden a “patriotic American who has always put our country first.”

Democratic Chair Jaime Harrison, responding to the news, pledged a “transparent and orderly process” moving forward as the party settles on a nominee.

Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg said Biden has “earned his place among the best and most consequential presidents in American history.”

“I am so proud to serve under his leadership, and thankful for his unwavering focus on what is best for our country,” Buttigieg said on X.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer thanked Biden as a “great public servant who knows better than anyone what it takes to defeat Donald Trump.”

Biden’s decision comes after escalating pressure from his Democratic allies to step aside following the June 27 debate, in which the 81-year-old president trailed off, often gave nonsensical answers and failed to call out the former president’s many falsehoods.

Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee in the 2024 election.

Calif. Gov. Gavin Newsom said Biden will “go down in history as one of the most impactful and selfless presidents.”

Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), called Biden “a true patriot and great American.”