The Democratic Party quickly rallied behind Harris, aiming to move past weeks of uncertainty about Biden's political future and focus on defeating Trump with just over 100 days until Election Day. Prominent Democrats and political organizations immediately supported Harris, and her campaign set a new record for presidential donations within 24 hours.
On Monday night, state delegations, including those from Texas and California, confirmed their support for Harris. By then, Harris had the backing of well over the 1,976 delegates needed to secure the nomination on the first ballot, according to the AP tally. No other candidate was mentioned by any delegate contacted by the AP.
California state Democratic Chairman Rusty Hicks noted that 75% to 80% of the state’s delegation were on a call, and they unanimously supported Harris. He remarked, “I’ve not heard anyone mentioning or calling for any other candidate. Tonight’s vote was a momentous one.”
However, the AP is not officially declaring Harris as the new presumptive nominee because the convention delegates are still free to vote for any candidate of their choice at the convention in August or during a potential virtual roll call ahead of the gathering in Chicago.
In response to the AP tally, Harris expressed gratitude in a statement: “I am grateful to President Biden and everyone in the Democratic Party who has already put their faith in me, and I look forward to taking our case directly to the American people.”
Concerns over Biden’s capability to serve were replaced by signs of unity within the party after the significant shift in the presidential race, affecting both major political parties' plans for the 2024 election.
Addressing her campaign staff in Wilmington, Delaware, Harris acknowledged the "rollercoaster" of recent weeks but expressed confidence in her campaign team. She stated, “It is my intention to go out and earn this nomination and to win.” She promised to “unite our Democratic Party, to unite our nation, and to win this election.”
Harris highlighted key themes for her campaign against Trump, contrasting her background as a prosecutor with Trump's felony convictions. “I know Donald Trump’s type,” she said, positioning herself as a defender of economic opportunity and abortion access.
“Our fight for the future is also a fight for freedoms,” Harris declared. “The baton is in our hands.”
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