President Joe Biden made a brief statement to reporters on Monday night, explaining his decision to step back from the presidential campaign and pass the torch to Kamala Harris. Biden stated that his decision was aimed at allowing the Democratic Party to concentrate on securing victories in the House and Senate races. He made these remarks before boarding Air Force One and departing from Chicago after delivering the keynote address on the opening night of the Democratic National Convention.
When asked by a reporter whether he was upset with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi—who reportedly issued an ultimatum the night before Biden exited the race, expressing doubts about his ability to win a second term against Donald Trump—Biden dismissed the notion.
“Are you angry at Nancy Pelosi — are you going to speak with her?”
BIDEN: “No, I haven’t spoken to Nancy at all. No one influenced my decision. No one knew it was coming.” pic.twitter.com/HbUh8zlHjT
— Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) August 20, 2024
“No, I haven’t spoken to Nancy at all. I mean, look, no one influenced my decision,” Biden responded. “No one knew it was coming. What I decided to do was—I didn’t want to—to