California Officials React to Biden Exiting Race, Endorsing VP Harris

Democrat leaders thank President Biden for his service, and many echo his support for Ms. Harris to take the top spot on the ticket.

President Joe Biden and California Gov. Gavin Newsom wave to the crowd at Long Beach City College in Long Beach, Calif., on Sept. 13, 2021. David McNew/Getty Images

Following President Joe Biden’s surprise announcement July 21 that he won’t seek reelection, and his subsequent endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic Party nomination, California politicians are reacting by thanking the sitting president for his service.

After acting as a campaign surrogate for President Biden this year, Gov. Gavin Newsom responded to the news by championing the president’s leadership.