Democratic Leaders Rally Behind Harris

Following Biden's surprise announcement, Democratic governors, senators, House members, and other party leaders quickly endorsed Harris. By Monday night, Harris had secured the majority of the nearly 4,000 delegates for the Democratic National Convention. On Friday, former President Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama also endorsed Harris.

Since Biden's announcement, Harris has raised $129 million in fundraising as of Thursday morning. This surge in fundraising reflects the enthusiasm and support for her candidacy within the Democratic Party.

Republican Criticism and Claims

Republicans were quick to criticize the process of Biden's departure from the race and Harris' seemingly immediate ascent to presumptive nominee status.

Trump labeled the move "an undemocratic move" during a rally in Charlotte, North Carolina. Republican Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton claimed Biden succumbed to a coup by prominent Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi and Barack Obama.

Whitmer Responds to Claims

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer commented on the Republican criticism of Harris replacing Biden. Speaking in New Hampshire on Thursday, Whitmer expressed initial surprise at Biden's announcement but supported the decision.

"It was a surprise to me. I was co-chair," she said. Whitmer emphasized that Harris, as Biden's vice president for four years, was a natural choice to step into the presidential candidacy.

Whitmer's Role and Potential Running Mate Speculation

Whitmer clarified that she is not part of the process of selecting Harris's running mate.

She reiterated her commitment to her role as Michigan governor, stating, "I made it very clear that I am committed to fulfilling my term as governor in Michigan, and so I’m not going anywhere." There has been speculation about Whitmer being a potential running mate for Harris, but she dismissed these rumors.

Support for Women in Leadership

Whitmer argued that America is ready for two women on a national ticket. She stated, "Of course, America can have two women on a national ticket. We’ve had two men since the dawn of time.

Women can lead as we’ve shown in many states where you’ve had great women leaders." Whitmer expressed confidence in the ability of women to lead effectively.

Democratic Success and Enthusiasm in New Hampshire

Whitmer highlighted the long-standing Democratic success in New Hampshire, despite recent close polling. Two new public opinion surveys indicated Harris holding single-digit leads over Trump in New Hampshire.

Billy Shaheen, a New Hampshire DNC member, praised the enthusiasm of Democratic supporters, saying, "It was a phenomenal crowd. They are pumped. And you know what wins elections? Passion. Passion wins elections. This crowd is passionate."

Increased Political Engagement

John Tackeff, a Democratic Party activist, noted an increase in political engagement among non-politically involved friends.

"Friends of mine who are not politically involved at all have been asking me the past couple of days how to get involved…it's truly shocking to see the moment in the past couple of days," he said.

Republican Criticism of the Selection Process

New Hampshire GOP chair Chris Ager criticized the selection process for Harris as undemocratic.

He predicted voter rejection of her agenda, stating, "Democrat party elites and corporate money have coronated the most extreme left-wing US Senator as their nominee, without voter vetting. After the honeymoon period, voters will once again reject her hard-core leftist agenda."

Conclusion

President Joe Biden's decision to end his re-election campaign and endorse Kamala Harris has reshaped the 2024 presidential race.  While Harris has received widespread support and significant fundraising from Democratic leaders and supporters, she has also faced criticism from Republicans.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has defended the decision and emphasized the readiness of America for female leadership. As the race progresses, political engagement and voter reactions will continue to shape the outcome of the upcoming election.