According to New York Post, President Joe Biden swiftly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris following his resignation from the 2024 presidential campaign, a move seen as revenge against party leaders who pressured him to bow out.

Biden's endorsement has sparked discussions about internal tensions within the Democratic Party and his continued influence on the upcoming campaign.

Biden's Swift Move to Back Harris

Biden announced his resignation from the 2024 presidential race in a statement posted on X, a social media platform, on Sunday.

This decision followed intense pressure from prominent Democrats, including former President Barack Obama, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and New York Senator Chuck Schumer, who were advocating for a new candidate to lead the party.

Shortly after his resignation, Biden publicly endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris. This endorsement is seen by many as a direct response to the pressure he faced from Democratic leaders. A source close to Biden described his endorsement of Harris as a significant move against Obama and Pelosi, stating, "It was Joe's big f–k you. Joe said, 'If I'm out, then I am endorsing her.'"

Obama, Pelosi, and Schumer had plans to conduct a "mini primary" to select a new candidate, a process they believed Harris would not win. Obama, in particular, had expressed his preference for Arizona Senator and former astronaut Mark Kelly to be at the top of the ticket.

Endorsement in Defense of Democracy

In a public address on Wednesday, Biden explained his resignation, stating it was "in defense of democracy." This resignation was a significant event in the Democratic Party, highlighting the internal conflicts and differing visions for the party's future.

Following Biden's endorsement, both Barack and Michelle Obama officially endorsed Harris on Friday. This move, however, has done little to ease the apparent tensions within the party.

Historical Tensions Between Biden and Obama

The tensions between Biden and Obama are not new. They date back to 2015 when Obama persuaded Biden not to run for president in the 2016 race, instead throwing his support behind Hillary Clinton. These past disagreements have resurfaced, exacerbated by Biden's recent poor performance in a debate against former President Donald Trump.

Prominent Democrats Push for Change

The pressure on Biden to step down had been building for some time. Prominent Democrats even threatened to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. This drastic measure highlighted the extent of the dissatisfaction within the party regarding Biden's leadership.

George Clooney, a well-known actor and political activist, also weighed in, writing an op-ed urging Biden to step aside for the good of the party and the country. Clooney's public statement added to the chorus of voices calling for a change in leadership.

Biden's Continued Influence on Harris's Campaign

Despite stepping down, Biden has made it clear that he intends to take an active role in Harris's campaign. A longtime Washington insider commented, "It allows Biden to retain leverage as a much more experienced hand at national politics, which will be good for her. It means her campaign won't be run by a bunch of insular advisors."

This continued involvement by Biden is seen as a strategic move to ensure that Harris's campaign benefits from his experience and political acumen.

Doubts About Harris's Campaign Capabilities

Despite the endorsements, there are doubts within the party about Harris's ability to handle the campaign. A source close to the Biden family revealed that Obama has little faith in Harris's capabilities, citing her handling of her role as the border czar and her controversial statements about migrants' health insurance.

"Obama knows she's just incompetent — the border czar who never visited the border, saying that all migrants should have health insurance. She cannot navigate the landmines that are ahead of her," the source said. These comments reflect the deep-seated concerns about Harris's leadership.

Conclusion

President Joe Biden's swift endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris following his resignation from the 2024 presidential campaign has ignited discussions about internal tensions within the Democratic Party.

Despite pressures from prominent Democrats like Barack Obama, Nancy Pelosi, and Chuck Schumer, Biden's move demonstrates his continued influence and strategic positioning within the party.

Historical tensions with Obama, coupled with doubts about Harris's campaign capabilities, add complexity to the upcoming election dynamics.

Biden's decision to remain actively involved in Harris's campaign underscores his commitment to shaping the future direction of the Democratic Party.