Kamala Harris has emerged as the presumptive Democratic nominee for the 2024 U.S. presidential election, following President Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the race. The Vice President secured support from a majority of delegates to the Democratic National Convention, effectively ensuring her nomination.
Biden announced his decision to step aside on July 21, 2024, citing concerns about his age and health. He pledged to complete his current term, which ends on January 20, 2025. In response, Harris delivered a powerful campaign speech, positioning herself as a formidable opponent to Republican nominee Donald Trump.
"I took on perpetrators of all kinds. Predators who abused women, fraudsters who ripped off consumers, cheaters who broke the rules for their own gain. So hear me when I say I know Donald Trump's type. In this campaign, I will proudly put my record against his."
The Harris campaign reported an impressive fundraising haul of $81 million within 24 hours of Biden's exit, demonstrating strong initial support for her candidacy. This financial boost, coupled with endorsements from key Democratic figures such as former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the AFL-CIO labor union federation, has solidified Harris' position as the party's new frontrunner.
As the first woman, Black American, and South Asian American to be elected Vice President, Harris brings a unique perspective to the presidential race. Her background as California's Attorney General and U.S. Senator has equipped her with valuable experience in law enforcement and legislation.
The Trump campaign has already begun critiquing Harris' record, focusing on issues such as immigration and law enforcement. However, Harris has vowed to confront Trump head-on, drawing on her experience as a prosecutor.
Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison stated that the party will officially announce its nominee by August 7, 2024. As the campaign progresses, Harris is scheduled to visit Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a key battleground state, on July 23, 2024.
With the 2024 U.S. presidential election set for November 5, both campaigns are gearing up for an intense race. If successful, Harris would make history as the first woman president of the United States, marking a significant milestone in American politics.