Tennessee lawmakers react to Biden ending 2024 presidential campaign

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — President Joe Biden announced he is withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race Sunday after a growing number of Democratic lawmakers called for him drop his re-election bid.

In a statement released on the social platform X just before 1 p.m. on Sunday, July 21, Biden said, "I believe it is in my best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term."

Now, Biden is endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic Party's nominee.

Various Tennessee lawmakers released statements and posted on social media in response to Sunday's news, with some thanking Biden for his service and/or sharing their support for Harris, while others called on Biden to resign as president immediately:

U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R)

Finally, Joe Biden has realized what the rest of the American people and even his own party already knew—he is not only the wrong leader for America, but is wholly incapable of doing the job of President of the United States. But he didn't go far enough.

If Joe is too weak to stay in the race for the presidency, he should resign as our Commander-in-Chief immediately.

Don’t be fooled: the Democrat Party is no better off today than they were yesterday. It doesn't matter who is the new face of the ticket in November; it will still be the same old Biden-Harris policies that have made the lives of hardworking Americans more difficult.

We cannot afford another four years of economic instability, chaos abroad, and crisis after crisis in our communities. That is why we must elect President Donald J. Trump and JD Vance to reverse these terrible policies and restore American prosperity.

U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty (R)

This is an unprecedented and disgraceful crisis of presidential leadership. If President Biden isn’t capable of running for President, he cannot be capable of serving as President.

He should resign and stop endangering the nation and stop risking the security and well-being of the American people.

Whether or not Joe Biden is aware, the left-wing puppeteers of the Biden Administration have done serious damage to our nation—from inflation to a collapsed border, diminishing opportunity, and a deteriorating world—and it’s time to clean house, end the dysfunction and destruction, and rebuild America.

U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett (R)

Due to the President’s condition, I did not see any other path forward.

U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen (D)

#JoeBiden has done the right thing for the country & the world. His presidency will be seen as the most impactful since LBJ’s. Infrastructure, healthcare, the environment, historic minority appointments, restoring our credibility with our international allies & more.

U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais (R)

It is no secret the President Biden’s health has been in decline for quite some time. I am glad to see that he has made the best choice for himself, his family, and for the country.

U.S. Rep. Mark Green (R)

If President Biden isn’t fit to run for reelection then it’s clear he also isn’t fit to hold office.

The Commander-in-Chief should be able to command. Joe Biden clearly cannot.

U.S. Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R)

If Joe Biden is not fit to run for reelection, he is not fit to be commander-in-chief.

U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles (R)

Now resign.

Tennessee Democratic Party Chair Hendrell Remus

In 2020, while everyone around me was choosing sides and lining up behind their preferred Democratic candidates for President, I patiently awaited the entry of Vice President Joe Biden into the race. Once Vice President Biden entered the race, I was locked in and vowed that I was Ridin’ with Biden come hell or high water. 

Today, as President Joseph R. Biden announces his intention not to seek re-election, I am saddened but I am forever proud of having supported the man who defeated Donald Trump and restored hope in America. President Biden delivered for the American people on election night in 2020 and every day during his term in office. Our nation is better today because President Biden served.

The next Democratic President will inherit a historic record of accomplishments to build on. Our party must do everything in its power to ensure that we protect President Biden’s legacy while fighting to make the lives of ordinary people better.

At this critical moment with so much on the line, we must unite as a party and deliver for the American people. The path ahead is clear. We have one objective and that is to make sure that Donald Trump does not return to the White House. 

Mr. President, we will carry out the mission and finish the job of building back better. 

Although saddened by Biden's announcement not to see re-election, Remus and other Democratic leaders remain optimistic for November.

"He has a record of accomplishments that he will walk away from the political arena with as being one of the most effective presidents in modern history...But I'm also very glad that finally we're putting all of the noise and chaos of whether or not the president should stay in or stay out behind us that has consumed the airwaves over the last three weeks," Remus told News 2.

Later Sunday afternoon, the Tennessee Democratic Party wrote on social media platform X, "During a meeting today, the Tennessee Delegation to the 2024 Democratic National Convention voted to support @KamalaHarris for President of the United States."

Tennessee has 72 delegates for the Democratic National Convention, which starts Aug. 19 in Chicago.

"The vast majority of our delegates are fully behind Vice President Harris, and we are ready to go to Chicago and help to nominate her for president of the United States," Remus added.

Tennessee Senate Minority Leader Raumesh Akbari (D)

As a @JoeBiden delegate and a firm supporter of the #BidenHarris administration, I plan to do everything I can to support @KamalaHarris to become our democratic nominee and our next #POTUS. Thank you, #JoeBiden. I don’t know that there is a person living that’s done more for this country.

Now let’s all unite as @TheDemocrats and remember what’s at stake in this election. Read #Project2025 and you will understand the urgency of now.

Akbari also posted a joint statement with House Minority Leader Karen Camper on X, adding, "As the first black women to serve as minority leaders in the #Tennessee State House and Senate, Leader @KarenDCamper and I firmly support Vice President @KamalaHarris as @TheDemocrats nominee for President of the United States."

Tennessee Senate Democratic Caucus Chair London Lamar

Somebody put me on Vice President @KamalaHarris campaign team!!!

State Sen. Paul Bailey (R)

Can someone please tell me how Wisconsin and Nevada will replace Biden on their ballot?

State Sen. Heidi Campbell (D)

Biden’s willingness to step down is an historic act of selflessness as we face the greatest threat to democracy since the civil war. Thanks to his bipartisan bill Tennessee is making huge strides in infrastructure improvements- he deftly avoided a recession- a great president!

State Sen. Sara Kyle (D)

Thank you, @POTUS. Our nation is grateful for your life-long service to our country. I stand with you as we unite our Party and elect the first woman President! #ThankYouPresidentBiden#KamalaHarris2024

State Sen. Charlane Oliver (D)

.@JoeBiden gave us the strongest economy post-covid and did more for working people in my lifetime. Voters stood with you, but we respect your selfless courage to put country over party. It's time to focus on beating Trump. I'm all in to make @VP Kamala Harris our next President.

State Sen. Dawn White (R)

It is now more important than ever that we elect President Donald J. Trump as our next president. Just based on her horrible record of failing to secure our border, Kamala Harris clearly can’t be trusted to serve as president. As a nation, we simply can’t afford four more years of the disastrous policies of the Biden-Harris administration.

State Sen. Jeff Yarbro (D)

Thank you @JoeBiden. Thank you for your lifetime of service. Thank you for a presidency that has and will continue making life better for so many. And thank you for your selflessness, for your fundamental decency, and for always putting the country first.

Tennessee House Minority Leader Karen Camper (D)

oday, we acknowledge a significant moment in our nation's history as President Joe Biden has announced his decision not to seek re-election. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to President Biden for his unwavering service to our country. Throughout his tenure, he has kept his commitment to the American people, delivering on numerous campaign promises that have led to substantial progress in our society.

President Biden's leadership during these challenging times has been commendable, and his dedication to the principles of democracy and justice has been inspiring. We thank him for his steadfast resolve and the positive changes he has championed.

In his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for President, we see a continuation of this legacy of leadership and progress. Vice President Harris has demonstrated exceptional service and dedication in her role, and her experience and vision make her an outstanding candidate to lead our nation forward.

I fully support Vice President Harris in her bid to become the next President of the United States. Her commitment to equality, justice, and the well-being of all Americans reflects the values we hold dear. Together, we will work to ensure a brighter future for our country.

Thank you, President Biden, for your service and commitment. And thank you, Vice President Harris, for your unwavering dedication. We stand with you as we embark on this new chapter for America.

Tennessee House Democratic Caucus Chair John Ray Clemmons

A historic day. @POTUS accomplished more for families in <4yrs than most do in 8. Record job gains, economic growth, invested billions in vital infrastructure, lowered Rx costs, passed major gun safety bill & expanded healthcare for vets. Truly thankful for real leadership.

Clemmons told News 2 he's excited to see new momentum.

"Once upon a time, this is how presidential candidates were selected. It came down to the conventions and that's when it took place and then it was a sprint for the last three or four months until Election Day, and so we get to see that again for the first time in modern history...I think there's a lot of excitement across the Democratic Party right now and I think across the country because we really have a lot of great leaders, young leaders, who are ready to step up and continue the leadership that he's provided," he explained.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell

"My focus will always be on what’s best for Nashville. We’ve been working closely with federal partners since taking office, and the Biden administration has been a great friend to Nashville. In just the last two weeks, we have celebrated $20 million in federal grants for affordable housing, healthy moms and babies, and improved transportation, as well as opened a new permanent supportive housing facility to house people experiencing homelessness funded, in part, by federal ARPA dollars. Additionally, if Nashville voters approve it in November, our transportation improvement program will greatly benefit in scope and speed from strong federal partners.

For decades, Joe Biden has served this country with grace and distinction. As President, he’s built a strong economy and restored the way the world sees us. Rare is the leader who puts country ahead of self. I’m grateful for President Biden’s leadership. Now, in this critical election where democracy is on the ballot, I look forward to supporting Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee."

Tennessee House Republican Whip Johnny Garrett

How can anyone trust the Democratic Party and whomever they nominate? Covering up the president’s condition for 3 years and then when he can’t win to hold their power, the Dem elites dump him. They ignore their own 14M voters, believe me, they will ignore you.

State Rep. Ronnie Glynn (D)

President Biden has been one of the most influential presidents of our time. His legacy will go down in history; job growth, infrastructure, reducing drug costs for seniors, and more countless wins than ever before. Thank you President Biden for your commitment to the American people, today and everyday.

State Rep. Justin Jones (D)

Excited to endorse the next President of the United States, Vice President Kamala Harris.

Her relentless commitment to justice and democracy by showing up for our fight in Tennessee, demonstrates the type of leader she will be for the nation.

Let’s make history!

State Rep. Sam McKenzie (D)

.@JoeBiden has been one of the most effective presidents of modern American history. His administration brought over $100 million of investment to Knoxville to help with affordable housing, infrastructure, mental healthcare, & more. (1/2)

I commend President Biden for making this difficult decision but most of all I am grateful for his lifetime of dedication to our nation. (2/2)

State Rep. Bo Mitchell (D)

Thank you President Biden!!! The Infrastructure Act will continue for years to come to have Republicans show up at groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings for something they didn’t vote for.

State Rep. Antonio Parkinson (D)

Let's go! @KamalaHarris for President!

State Rep. Justin Pearson (D)

I whole-heartedly endorse Vice President Harris for President of the United States.! Thank you, President Biden for your leadership and courage and commitment to this country and to our democracy. Let’s win this election! @POTUS @VP

Davidson County Register of Deeds Karen Johnson

Today, we proudly honor the selflessness of our President Joe Biden. He has led us with honor, with courage, and with wisdom. He stands tall as one of our greatest American Presidents, and our nation is in a better place because of him.

I pray that we will go forward in this election with dignity, with truth, and with our eyes open to the choice in front of us. I stand with President Biden in his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris, who is my AKA Soror.

Thank you, Mr. President, for your service.

As the first woman and African American elected in her position, Johnson hopes to see a woman rise to the nation's highest office after November.

"You saw how the country was moved when we saw Barack Obama become president. This is equally monumental -- reason being is because of women...I think she's going to galvanize not only women, but our young people, and it is truly getting ready to spark the excitement that the Democratic Party needs, and I can't wait to see her accept the nomination," Johnson told News 2.