Jul 22, 2024 - Politics & Policy

"Deeply grateful": Harris praises Biden in first remarks since election bombshell

Dave Lawler

Harris at podium — Photo: Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty

Vice President Kamala Harris praised President Biden's "legacy of accomplishment" and "integrity" in her first public remarks since he dropped out of the 2024 race and endorsed her.

Why it matters: The brief remarks at a ceremony for NCAA student-athletes come on the first day of Harris' campaign, as she seeks to transition from Biden's deputy to his successor as Democratic nominee and, potentially, as president.

What she's saying: Harris noted that Biden is "recovering fast" from COVID-19 and "looks forward to getting back on the road," a possible nod to the idea of Biden playing an active role in her campaign even after dropping out.

"Joe Biden's legacy of accomplishment over the past three years is unmatched in modern history," she contended. "In one term, he has already... surpassed the legacy of most presidents who have served two terms in office."
Harris reflected on her friendship with Biden's late son, Beau. "The qualities that Beau revered in his father are the same qualities that I have seen every day in our president: his honesty, his integrity, his commitment to his faith and his family, his big heart and his deep love of our country."
"Our president, Joe Biden, fights for the American people, and we are deeply, deeply grateful for his service to our nation," Harris concluded.

What's next: Harris has the inside track to the Democratic nomination and has said she intends to earn it.

She will travel to Wilmington, Delaware on Monday to visit what had been Biden's campaign headquarters, but will now be her campaign HQ.

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"Deeply grateful": Harris praises Biden in first remarks since election bombshell

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