In her first interview since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris shared details about how she learned that President Biden was ending his reelection bid. In a sit-down interview alongside her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris told CNN’s Dana Bash that she received a phone call from Mr. Biden on July 21 while she was with her family. During the call, Mr. Biden informed her of his decision to end his campaign, which he also announced on social media the same day.
Harris recounted the moment, saying, “My family was staying with us, including my baby nieces, and we had just had pancakes.” She described how they were sitting down to do a puzzle when the phone rang and it was Joe Biden on the line. Harris asked him if he was sure about his decision, to which he confirmed, leading to her learning about his decision to end his campaign.
When asked if Mr. Biden offered his endorsement over the phone or if she specifically asked for it, Harris did not provide a direct answer. However, she mentioned that Mr. Biden was clear about supporting her candidacy. Following Mr. Biden’s announcement, Harris quickly garnered support and put together a coalition, preventing any chance of an open Democratic primary.
Prior to his decision to end his campaign, Mr. Biden faced pressure from political leaders within his party following a poor debate performance against former President Donald Trump. Despite this, Harris stood by Mr. Biden, showing unwavering support and calling him “our nominee.” When questioned about any regrets regarding her defense of Mr. Biden’s capacity to serve another four years, Harris expressed no regrets.
During her conversation with Mr. Biden on the phone, Harris revealed that her initial thoughts were about him rather than her own candidacy. She praised Mr. Biden’s presidency, stating that history would show it as transformative in many ways.
It is important to note that Mr. Biden did not immediately endorse Harris in his July 21 letter but did so in a separate social media post shortly after. This endorsement allowed Harris to quickly gather support and solidify her position as the Democratic nominee.
In conclusion, Vice President Kamala Harris’s interview shed light on the events leading up to President Biden’s decision to end his reelection bid and the subsequent support she received from him. Her unwavering loyalty to Mr. Biden and her focus on his presidency’s transformative impact highlight her dedication to their shared goals. As the Democratic presidential nominee, Harris continues to demonstrate her commitment to leading the nation alongside President Biden.
