Kamala Harris Seeks to Lock Democratic Nomination After Biden's Exit

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris is moving quickly to secure the Democratic presidential nomination following President Joe Biden's sudden withdrawal from the race. Harris plans to continue Biden's policies but face a challenging campaign against Republican Donald Trump. Prominent Democrats and campaign officials rally behind Harris as the party navigates uncharted territory.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris moved swiftly on Monday to secure the Democratic presidential nomination, a day after President Joe Biden, 81, announced his withdrawal from the race due to growing party opposition. Harris, 59, was set to speak at the White House at 11:30 a.m. ET (1530 GMT) on Monday, with campaign officials and allies making hundreds of calls on her behalf to rally support among delegates for the November election against Republican Donald Trump.

Biden's exit marks another dramatic turn in the White House race, following an attempt on former President Trump's life and the selection of U.S. Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate. Harris, who embodies a generational and cultural contrast to Trump, vowed to unite the Democratic Party and the nation against Trump. Biden, the oldest person to hold the presidency, will serve out his term until January 2025 while endorsing Harris.

Democratic leaders, including Gavin Newsom and other key figures, are lining up behind Harris. However, some Democrats express concern about her candidacy due to racial and gender discrimination history, while Trump has questioned the party's right to switch candidates. Harris’ advocacy for abortion rights and continuity of Biden's foreign policies could rally younger and liberal voters.