Tipsheet

Here's Which Democrats Did Not Back Harris in Their Biden Statements

Leah Barkoukis
Leah Barkoukis  |  July 22, 2024 9:30 AM

Since President Biden bowed out of the 2024 presidential race, giving his support to Kamala Harris, most Democrats have expressed their support for the vice president. But not all of them. Some have been conspicuously silent, while others didn’t name her directly or backed an open convention.

One of the most prominent to issue a statement where Harris was nowhere to be found is Barack Obama. 

“I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges,” Obama said in a statement. “I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August.”

Rep. Nancy Pelosi and Sen. Bernie Sanders also failed to mention Harris.

The first congressional Democrat to call on Biden to step aside wants an open convention. 

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As Politico notes, a number of others who fall into this category are in tight reelection battles.

“Joe Biden has been the most consequential president in modern history," said DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene, who's trying to win back the House. "In four years, he delivered unprecedented investments in jobs and American manufacturing, lowered health care costs, better supported our veterans, and stood up for our democracy at a pivotal moment for our country. His legacy will be one of principled leadership with a focus on families and communities, striving to ensure opportunity and prosperity for all.

“I am grateful to President Biden for his historic achievements to strengthen our country," she added. "This fall, Democrats will take back the People’s House to build on his legacy and defend our rights, our freedoms, and our democracy for generations to come.”

Failing to mention Harris doesn't mean these Dems won't back her in the end, however.

There’s not necessarily any dissonance between calling for an “open process” and backing Harris — which is a two-step that a number of Democrats, such as Sen. RICHARD BLUMENTHAL (D-Conn.), are attempting at the moment.

And keep in mind that the divide between those who endorse Harris and those who don’t might very well amount to a distinction without a difference: No one has yet stepped forward to challenge her for the nomination, and given Biden’s endorsement and the rallying of much of the party behind her, it’s entirely possible that no one credible will. (Politico Playbook)