AUSTIN, Texas — President Joe Biden faced mounting pressure from members of both sides of the political aisle to step down, and on Sunday, he sent out a letter stating that he would serve the remainder of his term and not seek reelection.
The abrupt announcement comes less than four months before the November election and clears the way for a new nominee to challenge Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump.
According to University of Texas at Austin professor and historian Jeremy Suri, the decision for President Biden to end his campaign did not come as a surprise – it was just rare.
"It is very, very, very rare in history that someone with power voluntarily gives up power. Power is intoxicating when someone has it, even if they're a small potentate, they hold on to it. This is an act of supreme statesmanship," Suri said. "This is really extraordinary for him to do this, and there are very few historic figures who have ever done this."
President Biden received widespread praise from political figures following his announcement.
Texas U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett was one of several Democrats who had urged the president to step aside. The congressman released a statement after President Biden's announcement, which reads in part:
"Today’s courageous action caps decades of selfless service and opens the door to a Convention that can build on our progress and prevent a takeover of our country by Trump and his gang."
The president's withdrawal raises questions on where the Democratic Party stands and if voters should be concerned with how close elections are. However, Suri said there is plenty of time.
"Where we are is actually closer to the historic norm. Again, until the last 50 years, we generally didn't know who or nominees were until after their conventions until the end of the summer, and that's exactly where we're going to be," Suri said.
The president endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, who in turn said she plans to "earn and win" the Democratic nomination.
Suri noted if Harris does gain the Democratic bid, the lingering question would be who she would choose to be her running mate, as it would be key in showing where her priorities lie.
"I think it's likely that they will go to her, but it's not guaranteed," Suri said. "What Vice President Harris has to do right now is firm up her support among leaders in the party and among donors."
President Biden said he will further address the nation later in the week.