Donors are back – Democratic donors are energized and support Harris as the candidate – turning a new page from Biden

[Amie Parnes, ‘The Hill’ senior staff writer, 7-21-24, “Democratic donors move to support Harris,” https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4785099-donors-back-kamala-harris-biden-withdraws/, 7-21-24, EP]

Democratic donors are throwing their support behind Vice President Harris as the nominee, following President Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race.

Key donors said they would support Harris, and others pledged to do the same in the immediate hours following Biden’s announcement.

“This is exactly what we needed at this moment, some direction and hope,” said one longtime Democratic bundler. “I don’t think I’ve felt as energized as I do now this entire cycle.”

The bundler said he had heard from dozens of donors on Sunday afternoon who said they would help support Harris should she become the Democratic candidate. Before Biden’s announcement, the bundler said donors had frozen checks because of the uncertainty surrounding Biden.

“No one wanted to give a cent,” the bundler said. “People were completely demoralized and down. Things seem to be turning around very quickly.”