By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times @mikemcgannpa
Vice President Kamala Harris
Local Democrats moved quickly to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination after President Joe Biden announced Sunday that he would not seek reelection. Biden offered a strong endorsement for his Vice President, Sunday.
As of Monday Morning, Harris is the only announced candidate — Democrats will gather in Chicago on Aug. 19 for their nominating convention — and many top party leaders including former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton swiftly endorse Harris and many party officials followed suit.
Locally, Chester County Democratic Committee Chair Charlotte Valyo issued a statement of support for Harris less than two hours after Biden’s announcement, Sunday afternoon.
She praised Biden for his accomplishments in office and his willingness to step aside for the good of the nation and the Democratic Party.
“President Joe Biden has decided not to continue to seek the Democratic Party nomination for the office. To say that this must have been a difficult decision for the president is an understatement. Once again, President Biden has shown everyone the unselfish and honorable person he is, putting our nation and party above self-interest.
“President Biden is fairly judged one of the most effective Presidents of the United States of America. Under President Biden’s leadership we came through a pandemic, battled inflation, are rebuilding America. and enjoy the most robust economy in the world.”
Valyo then strongly endorsed Harris.
“Now we will unite behind Vice President Kamala Harris, who President Biden has endorsed and is well qualified and deserving of being elected the first woman President. This is our focus and the goal for which we will work for the next 115 days and nights.”
Other local elected officials followed suit shortly after.
Chester County Commissioners’ Chair Josh Maxwell announced his support for Harris in a statement:
“Four years ago, Joe Biden earned the most votes of any Democratic presidential candidate ever in Chester Co. I trusted him then; I trust him now. Pennsylvania will once again be a decider in this election, and I am thrilled to rally together and make history with Kamala Harris.”
U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-6) also announced she would back Harris for the nomination.
“Pennsylvanians delivered here in 2020, putting Democrats in the White House and we will do so again. Vice President Kamala Harris is the right person to be our Democratic nominee for President, and I’m proud to endorse her candidacy. She is ready to be our Commander in Chief.”
