NJ Democrats React To Biden Leaving Race

NEW JERSEY — The decision by President Joe Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race drew resounding praise from New Jersey Democrats, who also rallied to support Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.

Biden announced his decision on Sunday afternoon, following nearly three weeks of persistent criticism after his performance in the June 27 debate against former president Donald Trump that fueled concerns about Biden's health and age. Biden, 81, is three years older than Trump, 78, who now is the oldest presidential nominee in U.S. history.

"Selfless," "patriotic," and "noble" were among the adjectives that filled the statements from New Jersey's Senate and House Democrats, many of whom issued statements backing Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Biden endorsed to become the Democratic nominee for president.

Biden was not the party's official nominee; that person will be named at the Democratic National Convention in August.

Andy Kim, who represents New Jersey's 3rd District in the House of Representatives and is the Democratic nominee to fill the seat of Sen. Bob Menendez, said "Biden will go down in history as a leader of consequence and a man who loved his country."

"Ten years ago, then Vice President Biden pulled me aside in a hallway outside the Oval Office and said, 'Andy, remember it’s not that all politics is local, it’s that all politics is personal.' In his lifetime of service, President Biden has given our country everything he had. He worked so hard to improve our nation because it’s personal for him. But he also connected with me and so many others because he cared about us."

"His decision to lift up a new generation of leadership is extraordinary and one that cements his legacy," Kim said.

Sen. Cory Booker also praised Biden's decision.

"I cannot overstate the gravity of the noble and history-making decision that President Biden just made," Booker said. "The feeling that I have right now is one of profound gratitude ... that Joe Biden has been a friend, the most dedicated of public servants, and an extraordinary president."

"I was grateful for the opportunity to work with President Biden on some of the most pressing issues facing this nation: passing the expanded child tax credit that significantly reduced child poverty, historic investments in infrastructure, from the Gateway tunnel to urban tree planting to make a healthier environment for all, and defending democratic ideals at home and abroad," he said. "I am grateful that we have a president whose patriotism and love of country drove him to run and win against demagoguery in 2020, and who now, because of that same fierce love and devotion to his fellow Americans, has decided to be the bridge to a new generation of leaders."

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said he spoke with Biden on Sunday "to thank him for his lifetime of service and his historic achievements as President," including "for always putting our country first" and for Biden's more than 50 years of service to the nation.

"Your time in office will be remembered as one of the most successful and impactful presidencies in American history," Murphy said.

Murphy also expressed his support for Harris, calling her an outstanding vice president. "(She) has what it takes to be an even better President. She’s a former prosecutor who will draw a sharp contrast against Trump. She has my full support as our presidential nominee and I urge all Democrats to unite behind her candidacy."

Rep. Mikie Sherrill of the 11th District had been among Democrats who openly called for Biden to drop out of the race. On Sunday she said, "Joe Biden has once again shown us why he will be remembered by history as a selfless and accomplished public servant, a defender of democracy, and a force for good during some of the most difficult times in our nation’s history."

"This decision was not an easy one for the President, his family, and his dedicated staff but President Biden has done what he has been doing for the past 50 years – putting our country first," she said.

Sherrill also endorsed Harris, saying, "She has broken barriers while improving public safety, protecting abortion rights and standing up for our democracy. Vice President Harris understands what is at stake in this election, and as a former prosecutor, is uniquely qualified to prosecute the case against Donald Trump, J.D. Vance and their extremist Project 2025."

"This election is about the future and the country we are leaving to the next generation of Americans," Sherrill said. "For my children, and every child in New Jersey, I will work each and every day from now until Tuesday, Nov. 5th. to make sure that Kamala Harris is elected the 47th president of the United States of America."

Frank Pallone, the longest-serving Democrat from New Jersey, echoed other statements, saying Biden's decision "reflects his selflessness as a leader."

"His legacy of putting his country first is underscored by more than 50 years of public service. I am grateful for his calm leadership while navigating the most challenging role on the planet, especially after four years of tumult and division sowed by Donald Trump," said Pallone, who represents the 6th District.

"Our party must come together to defeat the authoritarian policies of the Republican nominee and ensure American democracy endures," he said, urging Democrats to join him in supporting Harris. "This election will be an accomplished prosecutor versus a convicted felon. Kamala Harris is the leader we need to drive real change and ensure everyone has a fair shot."

Josh Gottheimer, who represents the 5th District, thanked Biden for his "unwavering service, patriotism and dedication. Through your leadership we secured a once-in-a-generation investment to fix our crumbling roads and bridges, expanded access to healthcare for millions of veterans, revolutionized semiconductor production here in America, enacted common sense gun safety legislation and more. You have cemented your legacy and undoubtedly made our communities a better place to live work and raise a family."

He voiced his support for Harris, saying "What New Jersey likes more than anything is a fighter. That’s why I’m with Kamala — and why I’ll be fighting to elect her this November. Everything is on the line, and it’s time for us to unite against Donald Trump. I hope you’ll join me in supporting her."

Bonnie Watson Coleman of the 12th District said, "History will remember President Biden as a towering figure. ... For the president to care less about his status and more about the healthiness of this democracy speaks volumes to why so many people like me love and admire Joe Biden."

"Joe Biden is a great President and a good man," Bill Pascrell of the 9th District said. "When the histories are written he will recognized as one of America’s best chief executives."

"President Biden’s leadership and courage paved the way for one of the most productive presidencies in recent history. I am tremendously grateful for his decades of dedication and civil service to our country," wrote Rob Menendez, one of the newest members of New Jersey's Congressional delegation, serving the 8th District. "I know that Vice President Harris will continue this legacy and I am proud to support her campaign for President."

"President Biden put American working families first and built a stronger nation for the next generation," said Donald Norcross, the congressman who represents the 1st District. "As a union electrician by trade and co-chair of the Labor Caucus in Congress, I can confidently say that President Biden’s Administration has been the most pro-worker Presidential administration in our lifetime. President Biden saved pensions for millions of workers, created 15 million jobs, and became the first sitting President to visit a picket line."

"I applaud his decision to pass the torch and encourage all Americans to vote this November," Norcross said. "We can never stop fighting to protect and preserve our democracy."

Craig Coughlin, New Jersey Assembly Speaker, said he was "saddened" by Biden's decision.

"He has dedicated his life to leading with decency and integrity. From strengthening our democracy and our economy to defending fundamental freedoms and growing the middle class, he has remained true to his core principles. He led us out of turbulent times to deliver transformational change for the American people and we are all in his debt," Coughlin said. "His patriotism and compassion are an inspiration."

"This is a challenging time for the Democratic party, but we must look forward with resolve and remain committed to our party's values," Coughlin said.