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Home » Biden Withdraws from 2024 Race, Endorses Harris: What It Means for Campaign Funds and Delegates

Biden Withdraws from 2024 Race, Endorses Harris: What It Means for Campaign Funds and Delegates

Biden Withdraws from 2024 Race

Last Updated on 22/07/2024 by wccexam Desk

President Joe Biden’s recent decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris has significant implications for campaign funds and primary delegates within the Democratic Party.

Impact on Campaign Funds

Following Biden’s exit, his campaign disclosed approximately $91 million in reserves, with total available funds exceeding $240 million when including allied Democratic committees. This financial backing positions Harris favorably as she seeks to secure the Democratic nomination. Experts suggest that Harris can access a portion of these funds more easily now that Biden has stepped down, particularly since the campaign accounts are shared under both their names.

However, if Harris does not become the official nominee, federal regulations could complicate fund allocation. The Biden campaign could either refund donors or transfer funds to the Democratic National Committee (DNC) or state parties, but any transfer to Harris would be scrutinized, especially if legal challenges arise from Republicans. Notably, Harris has already begun to energize grassroots support, with donations reportedly surging to over $27.5 million shortly after Biden’s endorsement.

Impact on Primary Delegates

Biden’s withdrawal also frees up his delegates, who were previously pledged to support him. With Biden having earned 3,896 delegates, the release allows these delegates to vote for another candidate at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) if Harris is not the nominee. A candidate needs 1,976 delegates to secure the nomination, and the dynamics of delegate allocation will be crucial as the party navigates this transition.

The Democratic Party’s established rules will govern the process of selecting a new nominee, with superdelegates playing a role if the convention becomes contested. Although this situation is unprecedented, election experts assert that it is manageable within existing frameworks, ensuring a transparent process as the party aims to unite behind a candidate capable of defeating the Republican nominee in the upcoming election.

In summary, Biden’s departure and Harris’s endorsement are poised to reshape the financial landscape of the Democratic campaign while also altering the delegate dynamics leading up to the DNC. The party’s ability to adapt to these changes will be critical as it prepares for the November election.