‘Deeply grateful’: Local politicians react to President Biden’s decision to suspend re-election bid

BOSTON — Reactions poured in from Massachusetts politicians after President Joe Biden announced he was suspending his re-election campaign.

Governor Maura Healey gave her thanks for Biden’s years of service, saying in part:

“Joe Biden ran for President to restore the soul of our country and defeat the greatest threat our democracy has ever seen. And that’s exactly what he did. Few could have risen to the challenge the way Joe Biden has. He has restored our economy, defended our freedoms, and protected democracy at home and abroad. He has led with decency, empathy and brought Americans together. President Biden’s decision today not to seek reelection is the ultimate example of putting the country first — something Joe Biden has done over and over again in his unparalleled career. We are all deeply grateful to President Biden for his lifetime of service. Thank you, Mr. President.”

Congressman Ed Markey said Biden’s political record is unmatched:

“From reunifying NATO, to passing the largest climate investment in our history, President Joe Biden has helped save democracy and the planet. He has a record unmatched in modern U.S. history, and I am forever grateful for his service and friendship.”

Congresswoman Lori Trahan said that Biden saved democracy in 2020 and says he delivered unprecedented progress for American families.

“Joe Biden saved our Democracy in 2020, and he has worked with House Democrats to deliver unprecedented progress for the American people. President Biden’s decision to pass the baton positions us to defeat Donald Trump again this November and build on the work we’ve done to lower costs for families, strengthen our economy, and protect women’s reproductive freedom. Together with our strong, proven Vice President Kamala Harris, Democrats will make a clear, effective case to voters why our commitment to improving the lives of every American is the better choice than Donald Trump’s chaotic and extreme Republican Party.”

Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley thanked Biden and expressed confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Biden endorsed for the Democratic ticket.

Representative Jake Auchincloss thanked Biden in a short statement, saying in part: “Joe Biden is the first president in U.S. history who has had to defend democracy at home & abroad simultaneously. He has done so admirably. Thank you for your service, Mr. President. Now let’s win.”

In a lengthy statement, MassDems said Biden is a man of integrity, saying in part:

“President Joe Biden will go down in history as one of the greatest leaders our nation has ever had. In the decades that he has spent in service to the American people, there has been no one more committed to decency, no one more fluent in compassion, no one more fervent in his dedication to each and every cause that might improve the lives of the people he represents.”

MassGOP Chair Amy Carnevale says regardless of Biden stepping aside, the Republicans are in a great position to win in November.

“No matter the nominee, Americans now see through the failed policies of the Democratic Party,” she said. “From the economy to border security, Democrats have fallen short. Americans want a shift, and we’re confident that no Democrat will measure up to the Republican ticket.”

Democratic WHIP Katherine Clark commended President Biden for what she deemed a selfless act.

“Today’s announcement embodies President Biden’s steadfast courage and patriotism. At every point in his remarkable career, Joe Biden has put his country first — advancing the project of democracy and meeting the needs of the American people,” Clark’s statement read in part. “He has expanded access to affordable health care, brought jobs back to our shores, improved safety in our communities, led the fight against domestic violence, and paved our path toward a greener future. Around the globe, he is admired for his steady, experienced leadership — always honoring America’s crucial role as a facilitator of peace, democracy, and human rights.”

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell remarked that Biden will represent a high standard for public servants for a very long time.

“Throughout his career in public service including his presidency, President Joe Biden has set the standard for courage, empathy, sacrifice and unity. His model for leadership will be one future generations of public servants look to for decades to come. And with President Biden, we have had a true partner to help us improve the quality of life for everyone in Massachusetts,” said Campbell. “Put simply: President Biden has allowed Massachusetts to get things done. Together, we’ve worked hard to relieve the burden of student loans for thousands of borrowers, enacted climate policies for clean air and clean water, and imposed regulations on junk fees to tackle the affordability crisis. Running for president of the United States takes tremendous sacrifice - one that President Biden has continued to make even in times of tragedy in his personal life. And for that selflessness, we should all forever be grateful. Thank YOU President Biden for being the bridge to a future of great opportunity for our country and Commonwealth.”

New Hampshire Congressman Chris Pappas said he agreed with Biden’s decision to withdraw.

“The stakes in this election could not be higher, and this moment requires us to be forward-looking and put the needs of everyday Americans front and center,” Pappas said. “This election is about more than one candidate on the ballot. Protecting reproductive freedom, strengthening Social Security and Medicare, lowering drug prices, and bringing down costs for families are all on the ballot this November. That is why I remain focused on continuing the progress we’ve made, making a difference for Granite Staters, and putting New Hampshire first.”

Massachusetts Congressman Bill Keating anointed Biden as one the most effective Presidents in US history.

“Inflation is down, the stock market is at an all-time high, and Joe Biden’s term as President has not just been a success, but a historic success in moving us from the economic and healthcare crisis of the pandemic to the number one economy in the world,” Keating said. “As if the last four years didn’t already make it clear, today firmly demonstrates that Joe Biden is the antithesis of Donald Trump, putting country ahead of personal ambition.”

Congressman Seth Moulton described a level of pride in the 46th president’s decision to step down.

New Hampshire Senator Maggie Hassan commended Biden for the entirety of his political career.

“President Joe Biden has devoted his life to public service, demonstrating an unmatched depth of care for the American people and an ironclad commitment to freedom. His leadership has made a positive impact on Americans from all walks of life, but especially those who needed a champion the most,” Hassan said. “President Biden has shown how to connect democracy to the lives of everyday Americans, and his decades of successes spanning his time in the U.S. Senate, as Vice President, and as President demonstrate what can be accomplished when we are committed to democracy’s ideals.”

Biden’s decision comes about one month before the Democratic National Convention begins and just over 100 days until Election Day.

As late as Friday afternoon, Biden was adamant that he would return to the campaign trail after testing positive for COVID-19.

In a memo released to CNN on Friday, Biden said, “I look forward to getting back on the campaign trail next week to continue exposing the threat of Donald Trump’s Project 2025 agenda while making the case for my own record and the vision that I have for America: one where we save our democracy, protect our rights and freedoms, and create opportunity for everyone,” adding, “The stakes are high, and the choice is clear. Together, we will win.”

The health concern was the latest in a series of events that put pressure on Biden’s bid for president.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW

©2024 Cox Media Group