MD Leaders React To Biden Dropping Out Of 2024 Presidential Race

MARYLAND — Nearly a month after a disastrous debate performance against former President Donald Trump had Democrats voicing concerns about their prospects in the general election, President Joseph Biden said Sunday he will not seek reelection at the Democratic Party's upcoming convention.

He endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to be the party's nominee, and she said she will work to earn the nomination and win on Nov. 5.

Here is a reaction from top Democrats and Republicans in Maryland to the Biden news:

Gov. Wes Moore

"President Biden has dedicated his life and career to serving the American people. His legacy of hard work, dedication, optimism and strength have shaped the trajectory of our nation — and made us better as a people and our country.

"This is a man deeply in love with his family, his country and the promise of America. As a governor, I look to him as an exemplar of true leadership. As an American, I look to him as an embodiment of our shared values of freedom, decency and patriotism."

Sen. Ben Cardin

“Joe Biden is a friend, and has been a passionate public servant throughout his lifetime, putting the needs of this nation first time and again. As president, he has led an administration that for nearly four years has helped our nation, helped our people and has created hope and opportunity where there was sickness, despair and inequality. Unemployment is at historic lows, small businesses creation is at record highs and the Fed is on the cusp of cutting interest rates again because inflation is in check. America has earned back respect and leadership around the free world. For all this and more, Joe Biden has earned the right to determine his own future and I respect his decision. I thank him for his incredible service with all my heart.

“Donald Trump is unfit to hold elected office. Democrats, along with Independents and Republicans, now must be united and focus our attention on preserving our nation, our Constitution and our way of life under the rule of law.”

Sen. Chris Van Hollen

“Joe Biden has time and again shown our nation the true meaning of a dedicated public servant. Over the last four years — and throughout his decades of prior service — he has delivered on behalf of the American people, working to better the lives of millions, while never forgetting where he came from and who he was fighting for. President Biden has always put our country first, and in making this decision, he has once again done what he thinks is best for the future of our democracy. His legacy will set an example of what we can accomplish on behalf of everyday Americans for generations to come. There’s still more work to be done — and I know the President is committed to seeing it through.”

Former Governor and GOP Senate nominee Larry Hogan

"I respect President Biden for his decades of public service. I believe he made the right decision for his family and the country. These are dangerous and unprecedented times. He should be commended for putting the country ahead of personal ambition.

"The only way out of this cycle of chaos, divisiveness and dysfunction is to elect principled, common sense and experienced leaders who will focus on the day-to-day challenges facing Americans. We need less palace intrigue, less partisan nonsense, and more decisive action to solve the serious problems facing our nation. That’s why I’m running for U.S. Senate—to overcome all of the toxic politics and to bring strong, independent leadership to Washington."

Democratic Senate nominee Angela Alsobrooks

"President Biden knows more than anyone the profound stakes of this election. He knows the grave threat to our freedoms and to the future of our country that Donald Trump and a Republican Senate majority pose. That's why it is paramount that Democrats come together quickly and unite behind a qualified leader.

"Kamala Harris is that leader. She will provide a clear and stark contrast to the regressive vision Donald Trump has for this country. She will make this race about the future and the kind of country our children deserve to inherit. Each and every one of us deserves that kind of leader.

"Kamala, my friend, let's go!"

Rep. Steny H. Hoyer

"This afternoon, through a letter to the American people, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., has performed one of the greatest acts of patriotism in American history by choosing not to run for reelection.

"Joe Biden, my friend of nearly 55 years, has already proven himself among the pantheon of our best Presidents, and this selfless decision further reaffirms his position as a great American leader, willing to put the needs of our nation above his own. His service in the United States Senate, as Vice President of the United States, and impressive legislative victories as our President will impact generations of Americans and people around the world."

Maryland Republican Party chairwoman Nicole Beus Harris

"President Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 race saves the American people, and Marylanders, from the possibility of suffering under another four years of his failed 'leadership.' In their coverup of Joe Biden's incompetence, the Democratic Party has failed America, and they need to be held accountable.

"Amid Democratic weakness and division, the Republican Party remains united behind returning President Trump to the White House and Making America Great Again!"

On Monday morning, the Maryland delegation to the 2024 Democratic National Convention met virtually and voted to unanimously endorse Harris for the 2024 Democratic nomination for president.

“Vice President Kamala Harris possesses experience that uniquely qualifies her to serve as President of the United States, a strong track record of delivering for the American people on the heels of the Biden Harris Administration, and the leadership to unite the party through this unprecedented time,” said Maryland Democratic Party Chair Ken Ulman in a news release. “The Maryland Democratic Delegation stands unanimously behind her candidacy, eager to cast our votes for her and campaign vigorously for a historic victory this November.”

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