Joe Biden has announced that he is endorsing vice-president Kamala Harris as his successor for the Democratic presidential nomination just minutes after dropping out of the race.
In a post on X, he wrote: “My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term.
“My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made.
“Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year.
“Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”
Biden, who tested positive for Covid-19 on Wednesday, announced that he would be stepping down on Sunday following calls from his opponents and other Democrats.
Concerns have been raised over the 81-year-old’s phsyical fitness and cognitive ability.
Before stepping down, Biden repeatedly refuted claims he was unfit for office but in recent days had become “receptive” to the idea of giving up on his bid to be re-elected.
After his endorsement of Harris, Republican opponent Donald Trump told CNN he believes she will be easier to beat.
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