Democrats are united in support of Harris

[Amie Parnes, ‘The Hill’ senior staff writer, 7-21-24, “Democrats breathe sighs of relief over Biden exit,” https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4784726-biden-withdrawal-relief-democrats, 7-21-24, EP]

“F—ing finally,” said one Democratic strategist frustrated over how long the battle went on in recent weeks as Democrat after Democrat in Congress called for Biden to step down after a disastrous debate performance underscored deep concerns about the 81-year-old president’s age and fitness for office.

“The last three weeks couldn’t have been any worse for us,” the strategist said.

Another strategist close to the campaign said the move was best for Democrats. “Yesterday we couldn’t see the light. Today, there’s optimism and hope for our party,” this strategist said following Biden’s exit and endorsement of Vice President Harris as his party’s nominee.

Donors who had told Biden’s campaign they would not chip in any more money said they were back in the game.

“Let’s go,” said one major bundler who was looking for Biden to hand the reins to Harris. “Nothing against the President. He’s a hero. But things were spiraling and now we have a chance.”

Another donor expressed some uncertainty about Harris at the top of the ticket but added that at least Democrats could unite behind her.

“I feel a lot better than I did this morning,” the donor said. “This morning, we were spiraling, now we can all at least breathe a sigh of relief.”