HOUSTON — As news hit that President Biden ended his reelection bid Sunday and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic party nominee, Houston-area leaders shared their reactions.
This exit comes after weeks of pressure from Democrats for Biden to withdraw from the race following his debate performance in June.
In the letter announcing his decision, Biden thanked the American people for their support, and highlighted accomplishments his administration made in environmental policy, economic progress and preserving democracy.
Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07)
Fletcher represents Texas's 7th congressional district in the U.S. House. The district includes much of western Houston.
“President Biden has been an extraordinary president, and his historic accomplishments will deliver meaningful results for Americans for generations to come. From responding with urgency and vision to the coronavirus pandemic to leading the largest infrastructure investment in our country in nearly a century, bringing back domestic manufacturing and investment in our supply chains and our scientific leadership, to restoring the United States’ leadership in the world and partnerships with allies abroad, President Biden’s leadership and vision has set the country on a better course for the future. I am grateful for his steadfast leadership, his decades of patriotic service, and his unwavering commitment to America and Americans.
Today, President Biden announced that he will continue to focus on this work, and will step aside as the Democratic nominee for President in the 2024 election. I am honored and proud to join President Biden in endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for President. I am proud to have worked with Vice President Harris on some of the most important issues facing our community and country, especially in her work leading efforts to restore and protect the reproductive health and freedom of American women. I have faith in her and her ability to lead and unite Americans now and in the future, and I look forward to working with Democrats and people across the country to help her win in November.”
Texas Rep. Ron Reynolds
Reynolds represents District 27 in the Texas House. This district is fully within Fort Bend County.
Following the debate in June, Reynolds was among the first to publicly call for President Joe Biden to drop out of the race for re-election. He spoke to KHOU 11's Len Cannon.
Today, we mark a significant moment in our nation's history as President Joe Biden officially steps out of the presidential race. On behalf of our community and the entire nation, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Biden for his exemplary leadership, unwavering courage, and steadfast commitment to putting America first.
As the first elected official in the nation to call for President Biden to step out of the race, I applaud his statesmanship and his profound love and dedication to America. Throughout his tenure, President Biden has demonstrated a profound dedication to addressing the pressing issues facing our country, from healthcare to economic recovery, to social justice. His ability to navigate through unprecedented challenges with grace and determination has been nothing short of inspiring.
Now, let us unite behind Vice-President Kamala Harris and work together as a team to ensure victory in November. We stand on the brink of making history by electing the first woman President of the United States. Let us channel our collective energy and commitment to support Vice-President Harris in this crucial journey.
Thank you, President Biden, for your service to our nation. Your legacy will continue to guide us as we move forward, united and resilient.
On Sunday, Reynolds spoke to KHOU 11's Julissa Garza, saying he's glad Biden decided to not seek a second term.
"I want to commend President Biden for being a statesman, putting party and country first," he said.
Reynolds fully supports Harris as the Democratic nominee.
"She has the experience and as a prosecutor, what better person to make the case in a debate," he said. "This is a way to energize the Democrats to defeat Donald Trump. I think we're going to see young people come out to the polls."
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo
Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee
Menefee told KHOU 11 News he believes Harris is one of the most qualified candidates for president in "American history."
"I am a voting delegate at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. I will be there, and I will not just be voting for Vice President Kamala Harris to be our nominee, but I will also be whipping votes, doing every single thing I can to make sure that everybody else supports her as well," he said.
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis
“Thank you, President Biden, for your decades of service to our country. Your love of America has been a steady hand guiding us through the greatest challenge to the Republic in 160 years.
Through the midst of the worst pandemic in 100 years and subsequent economic crisis and in the face of resurging racism and anti-democratic forces, you courageously stood firm in your resolve and utmost confidence in our American system of government.
History has shown that, in such times, leaders of unique talent and ability rise to the challenge in triumph. Your Administration will forever be remembered as calmly and capably guiding the ship of state through the storm and toward a bright horizon.
We all know your heart is always in the fight and respect your decision as what's best for you and your family. My thoughts are now with you and your family as you prepare for the path ahead.”
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez
Houston Mayor John Whitmire
During a news conference discussing the City of Houston's response to Hurricane Beryl on Sunday, Whitmire addressed Biden dropping out of the race.
"I respect the president’s decision. I think he’s made all of us proud with his public service record. I think he competes with me for spending most of your adult life as a public servant. So I wish him well, but right now my real focus is on the Houstonians and the recovery and trying to make things better for Houston," he said.