Vermont Business Magazine Vermont political leaders issued the following statements following the announcement on Sunday, June 21, 2024, that he would not run for re-election and that he is endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to succeed him as the Democratic nominee.
On Sunday, Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vermont) issued the following statement on President Joe Biden, who dropped out of the presidential race today:
“Today, Joe Biden made a difficult and selfless choice. He put our democracy and the future of our nation ahead of himself. For this, and for all he has done, Joe Biden will be remembered as one of the greatest presidents of our time. His agenda, which has unified our party, will be his legacy. His ability to overcome personal tragedy has inspired generations of Americans.
“Joe Biden defeated Donald Trump, and restored our democracy. He led us through a pandemic and helped stabilize our economy. He created thousands of jobs, and helped usher in a new era of green energy investments, with Vermonters benefiting from over $2.3 billion in public infrastructure redevelopment.
“Now we have an existential task at hand: defending the White House from Donald Trump — a felon, a twice-impeached liar, and a man who tried to overturn the results of the last election. There is much at stake.
“I am confident in our ability to beat Donald Trump. Our party has many capable, proven leaders — Vice President Harris among them. We have a deep bench of leaders who will carry on the Biden legacy and inspire the voters we need to deliver the White House.
“I express deep gratitude to President Biden for making his difficult decision. As he has done throughout his long career, this decision was made for the benefit of the country. I know Vermonters are indebted to Joe Biden for his lifetime of public service and to strengthening our democracy.”
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) said:
"Joe Biden has served our country with honor and dignity.
"As the first president to ever walk on a picket line with striking workers, he has been the most pro-working class president in modern American history.
"Thank you, Mr. President, for all you've done."
Rep. Becca Balint on President Biden Withdrawal, Harris Endorsement
“Today President Biden did what he has done for four years: he put the needs of our country first. President Biden has dedicated his life to public service for this country, leading with courage and grace. His historic record has brought transformational investments in infrastructure, climate action, gun violence prevention, all while tackling inflation and fighting on behalf of working people.
“President Biden has once again shown us what it looks like to lead with integrity and love of country.
“The President understands that the White House must continue to be occupied by someone who believes in democracy, the constitution and protecting civil rights. And the alternative is a demagogue who only cares about one thing: himself. If elected, Donald Trump would be emboldened to test the limits of our democracy in service of his own dangerous impulses. The future of our democracy hangs in the balance.
“Vice President Kamala Harris has been an exceptional partner in the battle for dignity for working families, for reproductive freedoms and fighting corporate greed. Through her leadership, we will be able to build on the President’s legacy and get the job done.
“President Biden is the most progressive and effective President of our lifetime, and he has my immense gratitude and respect. Today, President Biden cemented his legacy as a true patriot and a man of deep integrity. Now it’s time for all of us to get to work and secure Kamala Harris in the White House.”
Source: 7.21.2024. BURLINGTON, VT – Delegation
To support great journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
