Residents react after Biden withdraws from re-election race

EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) — On Sunday, a historic decision from the President of the United States, announced his decision to withdraw from re-election in the 2024 presidential race. Many of his peers voiced their support.

President Joe Biden said in a letter posted to X Sunday afternoon, “I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as president for my term.”

GOP Presidential Candidate Donald Trump took to his Truth Social account, calling President Biden “the worst president in the history of our nation.”

However, the support for the president’s decision from his party has been big, with former president Barack Obama calling his former Vice President a “patriot of the highest honor.”

Governor Josh Shapiro posted a statement saying “grateful for his leadership and his unwavering commitment to delivering for Pennsylvania, the commonwealth hat raised him.”

Locals also commented on this historic decision, some remaining anonymous.

“I think Biden made a smart decision,” said Nancy Kelly from Luzerne.

“I’m sad and disappointed. I’m concerned with what’s next for our country and I don’t know who at this point is going to be able to take over the momentum that Trump seems to be gathering as the weeks go by so I hope someone steps up and that we could all rally around some other potential good candidates,” said an anonymous Wilkes-Barre resident.

“I think he should’ve dropped out earlier, he can’t do the job. Trump’s got too much going for him right now,” said Luzerne resident Michael Kelly.

The president also gave his full support and endorsement for Kamala Harris to be the nominee of the democratic party.

The vice president thanked President Biden calling what he did a selfless and patriotic act, and shared her intention was to earn and win the nomination for the presidency.

President Biden did say he will be making a public statement this week.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.