Iowa Dems praise Biden's exit

​​Iowa Democrats reacted with relief after President Biden announced Sunday he is dropping out of the race.

Why it matters: The president's decision to exit is a monumental change in the 2024 presidential contest ahead of the Democrats' nominating convention next month.

What they're saying: "The President's decision today gives an opportunity to turn the page on this chapter of our history and put people over politics again," Iowa House Democratic Leader Jennifer Konfrst said on X.

• "President Biden is a Statesman who has always put our country before himself. I urge all Americans to thank President Biden," Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Pam Jochum said in a statement.

Catch up quick: After ending his presidential bid via a letter posted on X, Biden quickly endorsed Harris Sunday.

• His decision followed weeks of pressure from many top Democrats urging him to drop his candidacy after his performance in last month's debate .

Meanwhile, Iowa GOP chairman Jeff Kaufmann joined other Republicans across the country in calling for Biden to resign immediately.

• GOP leaders argue the president's decision to step aside signals he is unfit to remain in office, and that the decision indicates to the country's adversaries that America is at a weak point.
• Gov. Kim Reynolds targeted Harris in her statement : "It doesn't matter who the Democrats nominate to replace Joe Biden on the ticket — they all represent the same failed policies of the last 4 years — especially Kamala Harris."

What we're watching: Whether Democrats nationwide unite behind Harris ahead of next month's Democratic National Convention in Chicago, which begins Aug. 19.

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