In an unexpected development, President Joe Biden announced that he is stepping out of the presidential race and placing his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris to become the party’s next nominee.

Despite his decision to step down, Biden called into a meeting between Harris and campaign staff on Monday, emphasizing his dedication to actively campaigning for the Democratic nominee while continuing his presidential responsibilities, as the Daily Wire reports.

Biden Endorses Harris Amid Campaign Challenges

President Biden's announcement came through a phone call with Harris' new presidential campaign team. This appearance marked the first time Biden had been publicly heard in several days.

During the call, Biden's voice was hoarse, and he occasionally slurred his words. Nonetheless, he made clear his intention to support Harris' campaign and continue his role in the government.

The announcement followed a written statement from Biden on Sunday, where he officially declared that he was dropping out of the race. In the statement, Biden endorsed Harris to replace him as the party's presidential nominee.

Acknowledging Campaign Efforts and Future Plans

Biden, who is currently 81 years old and suffering from COVID-19, participated in the meeting remotely. During his remarks, he extended gratitude to those who had been tirelessly working on his campaign.

“I’ve been honored and humbled,” Biden voiced. “I mean this from the bottom of my heart, my word as a Biden, for all you’ve done for me and my family. And you, we built the best campaign organization in history.”

Biden acknowledged the challenges and pressures his campaign had faced, both from media scrutiny and members of the Democratic Party.

Commitment To Campaign for Harris

As Biden continued, his coherence began to wane, and he even yawned during the call. However, he remained adamant about the campaign’s mission. “Now, now we got to, you know, the name has changed at the top of the ticket, but the mission hasn’t changed at all,” Biden stated.

He insisted, “I’m not going anywhere, I’m gonna be campaigning with her, with Kamala. I’m going to be working like hell, both as a sitting president getting legislation passed, as well as campaigning. And you know, we still need to save this democracy.”

Biden also took the opportunity to criticize former President Donald Trump, labeling him a danger to both the community and the country. “Trump is still a danger to the community, he’s a danger to the nation,” he asserted.

Focus On Legislative Agenda

Despite relinquishing his spot on the ticket, Biden reassured his continued involvement, saying, “I want you to know, I won’t be on the ticket, but I’m still going to be fully, fully engaged.”

With six months remaining in his presidency, Biden expressed his commitment to accomplishing as much as possible. “I’ve got six months left of my presidency, I’m determined to get as much done as I possibly can both in foreign policy and domestic policy,” he explained.

He detailed his priorities, including lowering costs for families, addressing issues related to guns, childcare, elder care, prescription drugs, and climate change. “Climate still is the existential threat that we face. And if we don’t win this thing, it’s all in jeopardy,” he warned.

Strong Endorsement of Harris

Biden made it clear that his support for Harris is unwavering, noting, “I know, I’ll be doing whatever Kamala wants me and needs me to do. Let me be real clear: we’re still in this fight together.”

He concluded his remarks by expressing his gratitude and commitment to his supporters. “I’m not going anywhere. And I want you to know I’ve always, you’ve always had my back. I promise you, I will always have your back,” Biden pledged.

Biden also expressed eagerness for the audience to hear from Harris, adding, “I’m anxious for you all to hear from Kamala. So thank you.”

Continued Efforts Despite Challenges

This surprising turn marks a significant shift in the Democratic presidential campaign dynamics. As Biden steps aside, Harris is expected to take over the presidential bid, while Biden intends to remain an active figure in both governance and campaign activities.

Despite his health condition and the various challenges his campaign faced, Biden's commitment to his objectives and support for Harris was asserted through his actions and words.

The campaign, which has now seen a shift at its top, still aims to pursue the goals it set out to achieve from the beginning. Biden’s seemingly genuine endorsement of Harris assures that the fight for the party’s values continues with renewed vigor and purpose.