GA Officials React To Biden's Withdrawal From 2024 Presidential Race

GEORGIA — With President Joe Biden out and Vice President Kamala Harris presumably in for the 2024 presidential race, Georgia leaders are divided in their support for the next Democratic nominee.

Biden endorsed Harris, his fellow Democrat, to become the party's next presidential nominee after dropping out of the race Sunday - much to the dismay of some Georgia officials.

"The Democrat establishment has succeeded in subverting the will of their voters," Lt. Gov. Burt Jones tweeted shortly after the news broke Sunday. "They can replace their nominee, but can’t change the damage they’ve done to this border and economy. Republicans have never been more united and the Democrats are a mess. See you in November! #TrumpVance2024."

Biden shared the news of his departure in a letter to the nation, which came in the wake of a disastrous June debate performance against former President Donald Trump that unleashed a wave of growing dissent within Biden's own party.

RELATED: Biden Dropping Out Of Race For Re-Election; Harris To Run With His Endorsement

He added he would address the nation later in the week about his decision.

"It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President," Biden wrote. "And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term."

In a statement released on Facebook, Biden shared his support for Harris to take the helm as the U.S.' next president. He noted selecting her to become his vice president has been his best decision.

"Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump," Biden said. "Let’s do this."

If victory is declared on Harris' behalf, she will become the first female president of the U.S.

With Biden deciding to bow out of the presidential race, the Democratic party is facing scrutiny from some Georgia leaders. U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter (GA-1) is one of them.

"This is the least democratic nomination process in American history," Carter tweeted. "Washington Democrats will be held accountable for steamrolling and misleading the American people come November."

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff praised Biden's service and said he believes in Harris' ability to defeat Trump.

"Pres. Biden’s record and decades of service to the country are extraordinary and historic," Ossoff tweeted. "Thank you, @POTUS. Vice President Harris is now absolutely the right candidate to defeat Donald Trump and unite our country. @KamalaHarris is prepared, ready to win, & has my full support."

Here's reactions from other Georgia officials:

Georgia Republican Party Chairperson Josh McKoon: "He must resign from office immediately.

If he is not fit to run, he is not fit to serve."

Former Georgia Gubernatorial Nominee Stacey Abrams:"Throughout his career, Joe Biden has shown resilience and a deep belief in the power of unity and democracy. His steadfast stewardship will continue to inspire us as we move forward to build a better America. Now, more than ever, we must not only unite to ensure that Donald Trump does not return to the White House—we must champion a vibrant vision for our next American chapter. It is our responsibility to lift every voice and pick up the mantle and fight for justice, equality and democracy. Let’s rally together and show the world the strength and resilience of our democracy. Together, we will build a brighter future for all."

GA Senate Democrats: "President Biden is a giant of American history. He has served our country as a United States senator, vice president and president of the United States. ... In the face of these tragedies, President Biden persevered and continued fighting every day to make America a better place. His retirement is an immense loss for our country. But following Joe's example, we too will persevere. We will elect Kamala Harris this November. We will stop Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. And we will continue President Biden's incredible work over the last four years."

Georgia Insurance Commissioner John King: "By pushing out Joe Biden, Democrats are usurping American democracy. Only in their party can a bunch of millionaires and billionaires pick their nominee - while ignoring the fact that if Joe Biden can’t run a campaign, he can’t run a country.#gapol"

U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson: “I have been ride-or-die loyal to President Biden, who has led our nation out of the dark days of the COVID pandemic, the January 6th Insurrection, and the worst economy since the Great Recession. Under his leadership, America has reclaimed her position as leader of the free world, our economy is the strongest in the world, and our nation is poised for future growth and prosperity. I thank President Biden for his leadership and service to our nation, and I pledge my support to Vice President Kamala Harris. Together, we will defeat Donald Trump and his Project 2025 agenda, and elect Kamala Harris to finish the job that Biden/Harris started.” (per WABE Atlanta)

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens: "President Biden is an extraordinary American who has dedicated his entire life to working people. His incredible record on jobs, the economy, climate, reproductive rights, and his leadership on the world stage make him one of the most consequential leaders in history. Atlanta is stronger because of his leadership. Our nation is better off because of his service and I'm proud to call him friend, leader, and most of all, President."

U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams: "I am all in for my sister in service, VP @KamalaHarris! I am proud to wholeheartedly endorse her as the next President of the United States. #ImWithHer."

U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath: "I first met Vice President Harris as a gun safety advocate before I ran for Congress. Then and now, her leadership, vision, and commitment to America amaze me. I unequivocally endorse @KamalaHarris to lead and win our Democratic ticket this November."

U.S. Rep. Rev. Raphael Warnock: "President Joe Biden demonstrated again today that he is a selfless servant leader and a true patriot, and why he is one of the most effective presidents of my lifetime. Joe Biden has always put the people first. ... I have been proud to work alongside him and our very able Vice President, Kamala Harris, and I am proud to endorse her candidacy to be the next president of the United States."

Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms: "It is with great enthusiasm and unwavering confidence that I endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States. As someone who has had the privilege of working with her in the White House and witnessing her leadership and dedication firsthand, I can wholeheartedly say that Vice President Harris is exceptionally prepared to lead our nation and continue the vital progress of the Biden-Harris Administration. I worked hard to help elect the Biden-Harris ticket in 2020 and look forward to working equally as hard help elect Kamala Harris President."

The Associated Press contributed to this story.