Kansas Democrats react to Biden dropping out of presidential race

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – With Joe Biden’s decision to step out of the presidential race, it’s rocked the Kansas Democratic Party. It’s left many questions unanswered, especially with the Democratic National Convention closing in.

KSN reached out to local leaders and our political analyst about what’s next for the party and who they’ll likely support. Kansas Democratic Party Chair, Jeanna Repass reflects on Biden leaving his campaign.

“I think there’s a sadness about seeing him exit the political stage,” Repass said.

Kansas Democrats are left with mixed feelings following the president’s decision to step out of the race. State Senator, Olathe Faust-Goudeau would like to have seen a different outcome.

“I was hoping that President Joe Biden would have stayed in the race, however I respect his decision,” Faust-Goudeau said.

With Biden’s endorsement, several Kansas Democrats see Vice President Kamala Harris as the most logical match for the nomination.

“He didn’t just step aside and say, ‘let the chips fall where they may.’ He’s endorsing a person he really believes will be the right standard bearer for the party. I agree with him,” Kansas Democratic Chair Repass said.

“I know delegates from Kansas will be in Chicago at the convention. My feeling is that we will support President Biden’s choice,” Senator Faust Goudeau said.

KSN political analyst Jeff Jarman says there are many challenges left for the Democratic Party and questions for how this will impact the race.

“The next several days will be really crucial for the vice president to build national support, especially among donors and other significant leaders in the party,” Jarman said.

Whoever is chosen as the Democratic candidate, Kansas Democratic Chair Jeanna Repass believes Democrats will lend their whole-hearted support to the eventual pick, saying:

“This is what change looks like. Change can sometimes look scary or uncertain. But for us to get from where we are to where we want to go, we need to embrace that change. It might look a little rocky, it might look different, it’s definitely unprecedented but it is not a task we’re not up to.”

It’s a decision she believes will revitalize Kansas voters.

Dr. Jarman says that it will take time to determine just how Biden dropping out of the race will affect other down ballot races. He also points out the new nominee will need to negotiate a new debate plan with former president Trump.

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