President Joe Biden has decided to withdraw from the presidential race, garnering praise from all five Indian-American lawmakers. Among them, three have expressed strong support for Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s likely nominee.
Biden, at 81 years old, announced on Sunday his decision to step down from re-election efforts, endorsing his deputy, Harris, for the Democratic nomination, just 107 days before the November 5 elections.
The House of Representatives currently includes five Indian-American Democrats: Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna, Shri Thanedar, Pramila Jayapal, and Ami Bera. Of these, Khanna, Thanedar, and Jayapal have officially endorsed Harris, who is notable for being the first Indian American elected as Vice President.
Congresswoman Jayapal, the first among the five to endorse Harris, took to social media, calling for support to make Harris the President and to defeat Donald Trump. Jayapal emphasized her commitment to Harris, citing her qualifications and readiness to lead the nation to victory.
Jayapal, a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and the first Indian-American woman elected to the House, has become an influential voice over recent years. She publicly expressed her unwavering support for Harris, highlighting the historic nature of her candidacy.
Ro Khanna praised Biden for his significant achievements and his dedication to American democracy. He expressed his pride in endorsing Harris, noting her potential to energize the party and promote a vision of hope for the future.
Shri Thanedar echoed this sentiment, respecting Biden’s decision and fully backing Harris. He acknowledged Biden’s impactful presidency and expressed optimism for another four years under Democratic leadership with Harris at the helm.
Raja Krishnamoorthi and Ami Bera also commended Biden’s presidency, with Bera labeling him the most consequential and effective president of his lifetime. Both highlighted Biden’s substantial contributions, from infrastructure investments to restoring American global leadership.
Additional endorsements for Harris came from Virginia State Senator Suhas Subramanyam, Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija, and Georgia State Senate candidate Ashwin Ramaswami. Each emphasized the historical significance of Harris’s potential presidency and her ability to represent diverse communities.
The Asian American Action Fund PAC also voiced its support, lauding Harris for her commitment to equality, opportunity, and justice. The PAC’s chair, Albert Shen, expressed confidence in Harris’s leadership and her capacity to address the needs of the Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander community and all Americans.
