Georgia leaders react to Biden bowing out of 2024 presidential race

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – State and federal leaders are reacting to Sunday’s news of President Joe Biden’s decision to end his 2024 re-election campaign.

WTVM News Leader 9 spoke with two Georgia officials, Congressman Sanford Bishop and State Representative Teddy Reese, who say they respect Biden’s decision.

“Biden has done a tremendous job,” said Congressman Bishop. “He has been probably the most productive president since LBJ.”

“He has done a phenomenal job and he will go down as one of the greatest presidents we’ve had” said Rep. Reese.

Biden’s decision came after weeks of mounting pressure.

“I think that he’s making decisions that he believes are in the best interest of the American people, our country, our national security and humankind,” said Bishop.

“It was his decision and I respect his decision…and a lot of American, we’ve got to accept his decision,” Reese said.

Both officials say they support Biden endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris.

“At this point in time, she is fully capable of stepping in and being president of the United States, absolutely. And I think that we have great respect for the job that President Biden has done,” Bishop added.

“So, we are glad to get behind VP Harris, soon-to-be President Harris, with President Biden,” said Reese. “We’ve followed him these four years. He’s done great work and there’s no reason not to listen to him now. What’s hard for me?… I was ready to fight for Joe Biden to the end for this election. And I knew we were gonna be successful because the alternative is very clear…whether we wanted a president who had done so many great things for America or did we want a president who’s been convicted of 34 felonies.”

Despite calls from within the Democratic Party, Reese and Bishop say the support is strong.

“You have 25 people that have spoken out about President Biden stepping down. You’ve got 217 Democrats, so you use the math,” Bishop said.

“You are always going to have different opinions within the Democratic Party,” said Reese. “But one thing we’re so proud of with our party is that we bring together so many different people. We are the party of diversity. We are the party of unity. And one thing we have done…is we have trusted our leaders. When our leaders make a decision, we follow them.”

Biden said he will finish his term and plans to address the nation later this week.

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