DNC Searches for Candidate ‘Capable of Defeating’ Trump After Biden Withdrawal

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has announced its primary focus following President Joe Biden’s declaration on Sunday that he will not seek reelection.

Democratic National Committee chairman Jaime Harrison stated that the party will “undertake a transparent and orderly process to move forward as a united Democratic Party with a candidate who can defeat” former President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, in the November election. “This process will be governed by established rules and procedures of the party,” Mr. Harrison added. “Our delegates are prepared to take seriously their responsibility in swiftly delivering a candidate to the American people.”

He further mentioned that “in short order, the American people will hear from the Democratic Party on next steps and the path forward for the nomination process.”

Unlike President Biden, Mr. Harrison did not endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee. President Biden has indicated his intention to complete his current term, which ends at 12 p.m. ET on Jan. 20, 2025.

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. 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,” he wrote in a letter posted to his X account, announcing his withdrawal.

Several prominent Democrats praised President Biden after his announcement. California Gov. Gavin Newsom wrote on social media, “President Biden has been an extraordinary, history-making president—a leader who has fought hard for working people and delivered astonishing results for all Americans. He will go down in history as one of the most impactful and selfless presidents. Thank you, [Joe Biden].”

Mr. Newsom, speculated as a potential Democratic presidential candidate, has dismissed such notions and has been a prominent supporter of President Biden, especially after the latter’s debate performance against former President Trump in late June. He did not mention Ms. Harris, whom President Biden officially endorsed on Sunday, in his post.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, also speculated as a potential candidate, praised President Biden’s record, saying he has been a “great public servant.” She highlighted his efforts to lower prescription drug costs, improve infrastructure, address climate change, and ensure America’s global leadership. She pledged to “do everything I can to elect Democrats” but did not mention Ms. Harris.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) described President Biden as a “great president and a great legislative leader,” acknowledging the difficulty of his decision and commending him for prioritizing the country, the party, and the future. “Joe, today shows you are a true patriot and great American,” the Senate leader wrote.

Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Schumer’s deputy, also praised President Biden, stating he “always put country first” and emphasizing the need for the Democratic Party to unite behind a candidate capable of defeating Donald Trump. “I will do everything in my power to help that effort,” he added.

Not all Democrats were pleased with President Biden’s decision. His former White House chief of staff, Ron Klain, expressed disappointment but endorsed Ms. Harris. “Now that the donors and electeds have pushed out the only candidate who has ever beaten Trump, it’s time to end the political fantasy games and unite behind the only veteran of a national campaign—our outstanding Kamala Harris’!! Let’s get real and win in November!” he wrote.