BOSTON (WHDH) – As President Joe Biden dropped his 2024 presidential reelection bid Sunday afternoon, New England political leaders and local officials reacted to the news.
At 1:46 p.m., Biden sent out a letter on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying that “it is in the best interest of my party and the county for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey sent out a statement saying that Biden’s decision not to seek reelection was the “ultimate example of putting the county first.”
“Joe Biden ran for President to restore the soul of our country and defeat the greatest threat our democracy has ever seen. And that’s exactly what he did,” Healey said.
“Few could have risen to the challenge the way Joe Biden has. He has restored our economy, defended our freedoms, and protected democracy at home and abroad. He has led with decency, empathy and brought Americans together,” she continued.
Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll continued the sentiment, calling Biden’s decision to forgo a second term one that “cements his legacy and will be remembered as one of the most patriotic and selfless acts in our nation’s history.”
She wrote in a statement that Biden’s four years as president were “among the most productive in history.”
United States Senator Elizabeth Warren sent out a lengthy X post endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nominee for president.
“She is a proven fighter who has been a national leader in safeguarding consumers and protecting access to abortion,” Warren said of Harris. “As a former prosecutor, she can press a forceful case against allowing Donald Trump to regain the White House.”
Warren also expressed her admiration towards Biden’s “selfless action” as he stepped back.
“While Donald Trump tried to tear down our democracy to maintain his grip on power, Joe Biden willingly stepped aside in…