‘Florida is on fire for Kamala Harris’: Tampa Bay Democrats push ahead

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — “I know yesterday’s news is surprising, and it’s hard for you to hear,” President Joe Biden said phoning in from his home in Delaware to Vice President Kamala Harris’ new campaign headquarters.

Biden doubled down on his decision to not seek a second term and pledged his full support to Harris.

“I was really disappointed and sad when he dropped out,” Jeannette Bradley said. “I understand now.”

Just one day after Biden ended his re-election bid, the race to replace him at the top of the Democratic ticket already kicked off across the nation.

As many ponder the timing of Biden’s decision and navigate through the uncharted waters ahead, Tampa Bay area Democrats said now is the time to focus on beating former President Donald Trump.

“We have to understand that we are all ready to go vote,” Florida Legislative Black Caucus Chair Rep. Dianne Hart said. “It’s critically important to ensure that we can get democracy over craziness because that is what the other side has to offer us a whole bunch of nothing.”

The Trump campaign will now need to change gears with Biden’s age and mental state out of the conversation, something Tampa Bay area Democrats are counting on.

“Kamala is going to bring a different kind of conversation, age being one of them,” Bradley said. “I’m excited actually on the potential here.”

Now all eyes are on Harris, the first female vice president in American history.

The 59-year-old former prosecutor also served as California Attorney General and a U.S. Senator.

“I am so not open to other options,” Bradley said when asked if she was considering other potential nominees. “It’s Kamala.”

“The democratic party should not look at anybody besides Vice President Kamala Harris,” Florida Rising Regional Director Robin Lockett added.

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