It was a master stroke by a great and humble leader. Now the republicans have the aging candidate and the reactionary VP. We all need to remind everyone of the contrast between Bidens actions- for the good of the country - and Trumps actions in 2020 - for the benefit of himself!
I said something similar a couple of days ago: President Biden sees the presidency as a team effort to serve the common good. The Republican nominee sees it as him alone to serve himself.
And I am hopeful this change in the situation will cause the irresponsible media which has devoted so many free inches lambasting Biden as presidential nominee to turn their sights in the other guy and (at last) spend more of their once precious energy on informing the public of his clay feet (to borrow a very old fashioned expression) and bone spurs (to reflect on a much more current and newsworthy feature). It’s about time.
I'd like a no-kidding assessment of whether or not Trump is also losing it. To me, I expect coherence and a point to a political speech. I don't see whinging about past elections and good golf and the Mid East and the border as being usefully all in the same stream of consciousness paragraph. At least, not from someone also holding the nuclear codes.
Not to mention the inanity of sinking battery powered boats in a sea of sharks. And Trump's good friend Hannibal Lecter, who will have you for dinner...or something like that.
No. But on the other hand, evincing signs of cognitive decline, at any age, is a reasonable concern for a person holding the nuclear codes. I posit that Trump evinces those signs
Trump has been unstable for many years. It’s had to do with his personality (remember the ketchup incident when he was President?). Don’t focus exclusively on age.
If you want to bring up the nuclear codes, hit Trump’s instability and ignorance.
No it’s not but Trump is not an elder. He is an overgrown adolescent. Let’s see how much President Biden gets done now that he doesn’t have to campaign as well as govern. I suspect President Biden will surprise us all once again.
“'Most Americans do not want a rematch between Biden and Trump. The first party to retire its 80-year-old candidate is going to be the one who wins this election.'
Thus prophesied Nikki Haley, six months ago in New Hampshire." - William Kristol, Morning Shots
My inbox has also been overwhelmed today. With people in my life, mainly grassroots volunteers, expressing relief, excitement, and a renewed optimism about our new ability to defeat Donald Trump. This post on X sums up the nation's enthusiasm: "Wow: there have only been two days where ActBlue has ever surpassed $50 million in donations. As of 9:30pm ET, ActBlue has today amassed $52,328,585 in donations. An unprecedented grassroots fundraising day as Democrats unite behind @KamalaHarris: https://x.com/mattmfm/status/1815199349737205860?s=46
ENOUGH of the negativity and divisiveness. We have a new candidate, someone that millions of voters in 2020 and 2024 supported as a replacement if Joe Biden were to step down. Now he has. The voters supported Kamala as VP. Enough said. Enthusiasm is sky high from a wide range of constituencies. Let's stop debating and go win this election!
Yes, and while you're at it, ask the Democratic leadership to put half as much effort into getting rid of Robert Menendez as they put into getting one of the most consequential presidents in our history to step aside. That would be helpful.
Or step it up - - campaign sincerely for Harris. One part of the pitch to him: No matter the lies spread by the GOP - the US has never in its history produced as much oil per day than it has under Biden. So shut up and step up!
Amen! I have never been more proud to be a Democrat. The avalanche of donations prove many things, including the fact that millions shared the legitimate concerns of Democratic leaders who had the courage to express them.
I didn’t want Biden to step down. But I knew he would if he was convinced that it would be good for America. He’s not about to disappear and in some ways this allows him to get more good work done for the American people. Let’s let this settle a bit.
I wonder how many of those $millions came from the millions that “shared legitimate concern of Democratic leaders who had the courage(?) to express them. Most likely it was followers of Biden who want at least Harris to represent the ticket. We swallowed hard our anger and rage, and stepped up.
My enthusiasm is in the sub basement. I will vote for the VP, but will not do so happily. I will vote for a Democratic ticket, because the alternative is unthinkable.
I am appreciative of the kind words for President Biden's service. But so many of those kind words only came about because people pitching hissy fits got their way. To my ears, your words ring hollow. They indicate go me that your party leadership is untrustworthy, but I think that was always the case anyway.
This is close to how I feel. My state has its primary next month, so my vote has not been discounted. But the way this was done........I do believe the media really hyped this up for money (I know clicks). But this was awful and does not increase any confidence in the leadership of the DNC.
I have plenty of distrust for the media that has nothing to do with the DNC. My distrust of the DNC has been growing on its own long before this happened. This just added to it.
Agreed. These people helped Clinton lose to Trump in the first place. THEY are the problem of perception of the Dems as elitist, because that's what the DNC is full of: aging white elites who need to get out and let a changing of the guard happen at the DNC, too. Do I trust them? I've voted for Democrats up and down the ticket in every election since 1964. I'm an upper-class white man. But I don't trust the DNC one iota.
I also don't have a favorable view of the DNC, but I do have favorable views of several state party's leadership teams including Anderson Clayton here in NC. But she is also defnitely NOT an aging white elistist!
I agree with you. I will do everything I can until November, but then I am done. There are other worthy volunteer efforts where I can spend my time. The emperor has no clothes. This has all been laid bare for all of us in the grassroots to see.
What no one wants to talk about is the elephant in the room which was close political advisors who hid certain Biden frailties which came out anyhow and then did not give him the truth about the data they knew was disastrous.
In the end, it was the truth, given almost too late, that precipitated the decision. From Politico: Biden's closest advisors carried to Rehoboth "the campaign’s own polls, which came back this week and showed his path to victory in November was gone,.
Absolutely and what was not reported was that many Democratic leadership folks knew that Biden could not win and my bowing out now he saves both his legacy and the party.
On Saturday three of Biden’s closest and long time confidents met with Biden and provided him with their detailed analysis of both polling and donor data which was devastating to him. These same close confidants were responsible for developing the strategy of very orchestrated events and news conferences. They knew he had slipped a little and they also because of past loyalty did not give him the bad news of where he really stood. This was reported in the Delaware newspapers by lifetime Biden following reporters. What many voters did not know was how badly Joe Biden capability’s had diminished and that he did not have the stamina to actively campaign. People like Schiff, Pelosi and even Clooney saw first hand a different and fragile Biden face to face and spoke up because they knew that voters would see the same thing.
The President has NOT STEPPED DOWN. Please, he didn't cease to exist. He is still the most powerful person in the world, and will continue to be our President for another 6 months. He has a lot of work to do, and now, more time and energy to do it.
In addition to the subsequent fundraising success, which I imagine signifies many, many small donors and voters, I am excited to imagine the many attractive possible VP choices for the ticket -- especially now that the right wing RNC choice of JD Vance is cast in cement.
We've all been through the roller coaster about this. One thing that keeps running through my mind is relief for Joe Biden that he doesn't have to keep fighting and being attacked. He is acting with such dignity which only makes him more of a hero. Let us all honor him and celebrate him! And let us all put our energy in moving forward with Kamala, who has been learning from him. Time to focus on the issues and freedoms and rights that we need to keep and restore as Americans. In Joe Biden's words... get back up!
In addition to Biden's dignity in deciding to step down and endorse Kamala Harris, Heather Cox Richardson points out that Biden had brilliant timing with his announcement:
I think he's given us a good start with the timing of his announcement. We've got just a bit more than 100 days to keep the momentum that started on Sunday building. We can do this as long as we stay united and don't start picking at each other.
Ellie, Thank you for this. I just finished watching it and I thinkHCR is right. Biden’s timing is impeccable and not having to campaign will give him six more months of getting things done.
I'm relieved, too. Relieved that President Biden is no longer pressured by candidacy. Thrilled that he can now proceed with his effective, hope-fulfilling presidency. Joyful at the idea of Kamala - President Harris, if that is what we are able to earn. I just now donated to her campaign.
I don't know, Julia, if this is the right time to showcase this story that Barak Obama told about his own candidacy. Hopefully, though, it will get people...Fired Up and Ready to Go!
💙💙💙this Lynell . Certainly helps boost my spirits and after a day of mourning, I’m “fired up and ready to go” . GOTV !!
Watched a clip this morn of Cheatolini this past w-end at a rally, minus the ear patch and amazingly “healed” as he rambled about “bringing back cement”. 😂
Agreed, Joe can keep focused on governing while Kamala campaigns. It's brilliant, if she wins (fingers crossed) I hope she keeps most of the staff and admin, these people know what they are doing.
I wholeheartedly agree AND I believe Joe Biden has just proved his intellect, integrity, and humility once again. His vantage point and experience are certainly better informed than mine; I take him at his word that this is the best choice at this juncture. I have worked really hard to convince people that Joe Biden is a great choice for our nominee. Today I feel great relief for his decision to step down - relief for him personally, relief for our chances to restore our democracy and take great strides forward toward that more perfect Union.
Kamala raised 50 million dollars in the first seven hours so we might be on to something here. . . Let’s stay united and fight like hell to keep our democracy. Rest up, all. We all make a great team.💙
I can’t tell you that I wasn’t shocked when I heard the news. I can’t tell you how I sobbed for My President. I can’t tell you that I didn’t want to one-handedly strangle those who forced Joe to step aside. I can tell you that we cannot argue among each other who should be the nominee. It’s Kamala and we must throw all of our weight behind her because it is showtime! Kamala is no slouch and you would know that when she was in the Senate asking questions to Brent Kavanaugh as he was auditioning for justice. She practically brought that weasel to tears. We know her very well in CA because she had not only been our Senator but our AG. We didn’t care what her gender or color was. We just wanted her to do the job. She did and made the police forces very uncomfortable. I have donated to her campaign tonight, what I can afford. ActBlue which takes our donations reported that small donors, within 5 hours after Biden announced he was stepping away, that over $25 million had been received. Right now, the total is $52.8 million! Folks, (as Joe would say) you might be getting tons of emails and texts asking for money for Kamala. Don’t fall for them. Send them to Spam or trash. Only give to Act Blue, the official Democrat organization.
Thank you for all of this, Marlene. I"m right there with you, and I'm especially grateful for that last bit: I've wondered who all of these texts are coming from and how legitimate they are. Maybe Robert will make sure we are all aware of what's true by posting this in his next newsletter? These are such precarious times and I wouldn't put it past bad actors out there to try to take advantage of folks meaning to support the cause of democracy.
They are and that’s why I put the warning out there. I am mad at the DNC too for providing our phone numbers and emails so every Tom, Dick, and Harry can bog down our computers and phones. Insanity!
Eloquent, Marlene. And very good advice on the text and emails from nice sounding fund raising sites. Now and throughout the cycle. If you are not sure a request is legitimate, please don't give. Go to Act Blue or the official candidates site, almost always powered by Act Blue. I would not be surprised if some of the requests come from Russia or Republican malefactors.
Right. Yesterday my thought was, "time out for the rending of garments, the tearing of hair, the gnashing of teeth. Then, back to donating (what I can), and writing post cards."
A strategy I use is to not click on the link in my email but to copy and paste it into a new window so it's not connected through my email. Once the sender realizes yer a "hot" one, they'll keep your inbox busy.
Kamala is no slouch and you would know that when she was in the Senate asking questions to Brent Kavanaugh as he was auditioning for justice. She practically brought that weasel to tears.
⬆️
I'm pretty sure she did with Jeff Sessions at his confirmation hearing for AG.
Kamala Harris rocks. And Joe Biden picked her. This election is going to require both humility and teamwork. It cannot be said often enough, we’re all in this together.
Thank you Robert. My emotions have been swirling all day. I voted for the Biden/Harris team with eyes wide open and would do it again. I am 100% behind Kamala Harris' nomination and judging from the swell of financial support from grassroots donors today, I'm not alone.
This has been a day for ambivalence and conflicted feelings. Sadness, guilt, and relief.
- My wife and I, both experienced in Behavioral Medicine, saw the debate and since then have watched our beloved Joe closely….And we have been worried for him. We were appalled at the horribly biased treatment he was receiving, yet we suspected that he was having truly serious early cognitive issues. We were very concerned that his trajectory would worsen.
- Given that, we were extremely fearful about the election, even though we felt disloyal in thinking so, especially given his extraordinary service of over FIVE decades.
- I was in church today when the news came as I was turning off the phone. Disbelief was followed by relief…. And then I thought:
Damn. Perhaps the old fox had one more trick to play….?
Was part of this intentional?
He waited until after the convention. It just blows away any Republican news cycle attention or bump.
He immediately endorsed his running mate in a wonderful affirmation of women and people of color.
And he has demonstrated once again just how much humility he has.
This I know: When I got up and informed our fellowship, the loud and collective gasp was filled with every imaginable emotion.
Sadness. Astonishment. Some anger. Much relief. Intense concern for Biden the man. Rapidly growing excitement - and an intense commitment to honor Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr. by winning the Presidential election on November 5.
EF, I also was appalled at the treatment received by Biden. But, as an educated person I honestly believed that he had an obligation to undergo a decent cognitive and medical evaluation soon after the debate AND to report general results to the American people. I realize that Trump also shows signs of decline and should complete such an evaluation, but his refusal is not justification to avoid it. For Biden to refuse such an evaluation after his shocking performance seemed like poor judgment from someone in such an important position and possibly contributed to Americans’ ageism and ignorance about cognitive decline, stuttering, and other issues.
1) You and I have no idea whether in fact he underwent an updated Neuropsych evaluation. We only know what is reported and I guarantee that we would be the last to know.
2) It is well understood (and my own personal experience with my elderly loved ones corresponds) that folks in cognitive decline commonly do not recognize their own impairment. Faulty judgement is part of their evolving cognitive loss. As a result it can be excruciatingly difficult to persuade them to surrender any autonomy, much less to step down from a position of power.
If President Biden were evaluated and found to be impaired, there would be NO way to remove him without invoking the 25th amendment.
3) That route would take considerable time and be extremely hurtful. Far better that his most respected colleagues and his family persuade him. I strongly suspect that they have been working on this almost since the debate…. And we now have the outcome.
If he is impaired, OF COURSE he has poor judgement. To judge him harshly for his impairment is to miss the point entirely.
1. Yes, we have no idea if he underwent a neuropsych evaluation. While we would be the last to know in our current system, I believe voters have a right to know whether potential leaders have a serious health condition that limits their judgment or ability to perform. Instead, we allow journalists and donors to humiliate and drive a man out. That’s backwards in my view.
2. While many families and folks in cognitive decline are unable or unwilling to confront it, others recognize these changes and agree to be evaluated and retire if needed. The more we discuss these issues in a responsible way, the more we all learn to deal with cognitive decline in a nonjudgmental way. You don’t know me or my experience so please avoid your preaching. It’s not helpful.
I hope that we can all come together and work our hearts out for Vice President Harris. The fact that donations have topped $60 million in the last several hours since the announcement was made makes me hopeful. Personally, I’ve been hoping for this outcome since June 27 which has made reading your newsletter almost impossible for me, my family and many of my friends for the last three weeks. We’ve been loyal readers since the beginning, but we felt excluded and frankly puzzled. But I am optimistic. In addition to the $60 million raised, there’s been a phone call for an #ElectBlackWomen group tonight with tens of thousands of Black women taking part. My kids are much more excited about voting for Kamala than they were for voting for an 81-year-old Joe Biden. I hope those of you who are feeling disappointed will be able to join us. I am grateful to President Biden for his service, for defeating the orange felon in 2020, for leading us out of COVID, for supporting Ukraine and restoring U.S. leadership on the world stage and so much more. But I am also grateful to him for passing the torch to the next generation. I have donated three times to Vice President Harris today and will do all I can to help her. I hope you and your readers will join me.
All my thoughts in your comment. Roberts tone changed as we all muddled through this time frame. He was angered by those of us who had legitimate concerns.
I too feel how difficult this is for the Bidens. But Joe now has cemented his legacy as one of our greatest, most accomplished Presidents ever.
I live in a 55+ community. Yesterday there was a giant sigh of relief.
So what just happened to us? We demonstrated that we don't worship leaders - we are not cultists like the Extremists on the right.
If we view clips of Harris speeches and past campaign ads, we will be inspired.
Yes, they filed the paperwork yesterday afternoon. The Biden-Harris campaign is officially the Harris campaign. There are some steps yet to come, but they are really just formalities.
Step back from the political scene for a moment as we gaze at Robert's spellbinding photo of the Andromeda Galaxy, which is 2.5 million light years from Earth. 1 light year = 5.88 trillion miles. My math says that 2.5 million light years equals 14,700 followed by 15 zeroes, or 14,700,000,000,000,000,000 miles.
We are fortunate to have telescopes, photography, science, explorers, curiosity, astronomers, knowledge, questions, and so much more. If we can achieve all this despite wars, pestilence, natural disasters, fear, hate, and willful ignorance, then we should be able to save our democracy. Onward!
Close in age, but I'm hoping for a Harris/Cooper ticket. Then again, my predictions have suffered a blow a bit recently. I really like Shapiro, but it just may be a bridge too far at this juncture in time. Also PA needs Shapiro, and Cooper is hopefully being replaced by Josh Stein here in NC.
I was disheartened, angry and sad all rolled up in a huge bundle! That was around 11:30 am or so! It’s 9:15 pm and I’m on board! Bells on toes!! Seeing the contributions soar in the highest amount ever for a day ($50m) and listening to my daughter and her friends…I learned that they were going to vote for Biden reluctantly but now they are excited and will actively involve themselves. They see a future for our party to “get away from the good old boyz” party and believing it will now become more relational and aligned with their values.
Few things:
• Wouldn’t it be poetic justice when DT loses to a woman of color?
• Think DT will debate her? A matchup with a prosecutor and a felon?
being old enough to remember the political nightmare of 1968 my only concern now is that Democrats will again seize defeat out of the jaws of victory by making a big deal over who the vice presidential nominee will be. As far as I’m concerned that decision is completely up to Kamala Harris, but I don’t trust Democrats, even though I am one, to do the right thing. Yes, I also hope for unity but right now I’m feeling somewhat cynical. Joe Biden is a good man. He is a good president and he was unfairly hounded out of Office, but I will completely supportHarris, who I also think has the beginnings of being a great president and then whomever she chooses to be her running mate I will also support. I hope others will do the same.
I need to push back just a tad. We don’t know that Pres. Biden was “hounded out” of running for re-election. He is a very smart man and skilled politician….wily as a fox. I trust he listened to a variety of people and made his own decision. My initial reaction was disappointment, anger, sadness, but I quickly realized that my reactions were to the uncertainty surrounding this whole thing and that i can continue to stand with Pres. Biden in his decision to step down.
By stepping down President Biden has shown our country and the world a level of patriotism, dignity, courage, moral character that is so rarely seen. What a beautiful and extraordinary human being!
I went through a speedrun on the Kubler-Ross cycle today. I backed Biden until he dropped out, but there are times when things happen, and the best reaction is to just say three very bad words and then get on with doing what the !@#$ needs to be done. In this case, it's saving this country from fascism and moving it toward a better nation. That need has. Not. Changed. One. Bit.
Since I actually had Harris ranked ahead of Biden all the way through the 2020 presidential cycle for them, I'm now excited about this and actually contributed $100 to the campaign a few hours ago. Let's do this!
Wish I had read Robert’s newsletter before having done so. It would have been far more eloquent. Following is my letter to President Biden. Though if you haven’t already, you may be better served to spend a few minutes listening to Jill Bickett’s letter to Jill Biden. It is stunning and heartbreaking at once, and a true expression of accompaniment, deep sadness, and strength, from one courageous woman of purpose and devotion—to another.
Dear President Biden,
I could not rest tonight without expressing deep care, and my gratitude for your lifetime of service to the American people, on behalf of the still-to-be realized idea of Democracy. For your commitment to the people of our country and to the citizens of the world, I am immensely grateful.
There is more hope in this country and world of ours—through your leadership. May we learn from your dedication in your remaining days as our president, and beyond them. I am rather confident history will remember you kindly for your extraordinary accomplishments. And for your courage to stand strong in the face of adversity from misguided MAGA voices, most especially that of the one who shall go unnamed.
Several times today since the announcement that you are stepping aside, I've been tearful. And I can only imagine more will follow. Your grace and sacrifice are stirring to my soul. I am sorry for all the ways you have become an object of the many who live in fear and act from that place, and those who are not truth tellers, especially MSM. And sadly, of those in our party who have not remained faithful, I am especially troubled. I hope to come to understand their words and actions, so that I not lose complete faith in them.
I am not ready to move beyond my sadness. At least not today and maybe not tomorrow. Though I promise, I will come to find whatever it takes to do all I can to nurture the flame of Democracy, so that we do not lose it. You have taught me that this is possible, by your unwavering life.
May you and your beloved Jill, and your precious children and grandchildren who you love so dearly, be ever blessed.
With a deep bow of heartfelt gratitude and affection,
It was a master stroke by a great and humble leader. Now the republicans have the aging candidate and the reactionary VP. We all need to remind everyone of the contrast between Bidens actions- for the good of the country - and Trumps actions in 2020 - for the benefit of himself!
I said something similar a couple of days ago: President Biden sees the presidency as a team effort to serve the common good. The Republican nominee sees it as him alone to serve himself.
Well said.
Exactly.
Good comment. Now the GOP has the old age issue, the incoherent leader, the convicted felon. They own it. Let's make the most of that.
And I am hopeful this change in the situation will cause the irresponsible media which has devoted so many free inches lambasting Biden as presidential nominee to turn their sights in the other guy and (at last) spend more of their once precious energy on informing the public of his clay feet (to borrow a very old fashioned expression) and bone spurs (to reflect on a much more current and newsworthy feature). It’s about time.
I'd like a no-kidding assessment of whether or not Trump is also losing it. To me, I expect coherence and a point to a political speech. I don't see whinging about past elections and good golf and the Mid East and the border as being usefully all in the same stream of consciousness paragraph. At least, not from someone also holding the nuclear codes.
Not to mention the inanity of sinking battery powered boats in a sea of sharks. And Trump's good friend Hannibal Lecter, who will have you for dinner...or something like that.
Hope springs eternal. Just don’t hold your breath.
You are more hopeful than I am, Marian! I only see more of the same from the NY TImes and the Wash Po. But we can always hope!!!
I understand!
That part can’t happen soon enough.
Agreed!
Absolutely true! Thanks!
“Now the GOP has the old age issue” –
Now it’s okay for Democrats, as well as Republicans, to engage in bias against elders?
/S
No. But on the other hand, evincing signs of cognitive decline, at any age, is a reasonable concern for a person holding the nuclear codes. I posit that Trump evinces those signs
Trump has been unstable for many years. It’s had to do with his personality (remember the ketchup incident when he was President?). Don’t focus exclusively on age.
If you want to bring up the nuclear codes, hit Trump’s instability and ignorance.
No it’s not but Trump is not an elder. He is an overgrown adolescent. Let’s see how much President Biden gets done now that he doesn’t have to campaign as well as govern. I suspect President Biden will surprise us all once again.
I hope you’re right. But since Republicans control the House of Representatives, they could stonewall Biden initiatives.
Maybe *that* would give Democrats another issue: the need to give President Harris the Congress she needs.
https://danielsolomon.substack.com/p/thanks-joe-now-lets-go?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=742145&post_id=146857019&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=false&r=zc69i&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email
“'Most Americans do not want a rematch between Biden and Trump. The first party to retire its 80-year-old candidate is going to be the one who wins this election.'
Thus prophesied Nikki Haley, six months ago in New Hampshire." - William Kristol, Morning Shots
(https://www.thebulwark.com/p/democrats-forego-the-iceberg?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web)
And her super pac just posted their support for Harris
That’s a good bit of news. Thank you 🙏
My inbox has also been overwhelmed today. With people in my life, mainly grassroots volunteers, expressing relief, excitement, and a renewed optimism about our new ability to defeat Donald Trump. This post on X sums up the nation's enthusiasm: "Wow: there have only been two days where ActBlue has ever surpassed $50 million in donations. As of 9:30pm ET, ActBlue has today amassed $52,328,585 in donations. An unprecedented grassroots fundraising day as Democrats unite behind @KamalaHarris: https://x.com/mattmfm/status/1815199349737205860?s=46
ENOUGH of the negativity and divisiveness. We have a new candidate, someone that millions of voters in 2020 and 2024 supported as a replacement if Joe Biden were to step down. Now he has. The voters supported Kamala as VP. Enough said. Enthusiasm is sky high from a wide range of constituencies. Let's stop debating and go win this election!
.
Yes!! And could somebody please tell Joe Manchin to go back on his yacht and leave us alone?
Yes, and while you're at it, ask the Democratic leadership to put half as much effort into getting rid of Robert Menendez as they put into getting one of the most consequential presidents in our history to step aside. That would be helpful.
Or step it up - - campaign sincerely for Harris. One part of the pitch to him: No matter the lies spread by the GOP - the US has never in its history produced as much oil per day than it has under Biden. So shut up and step up!
I heard a very good slogan from a democratic organizer in rural America: “ Show up. Shut up. And get stuff done.”
Yes, I had another place I would like to send him…
Amen!
And remind him he is TOO old as even he referred to several hours before Biden announced his exit.
YES PLEASE!!!
Leta do this! Together!
Amen! I have never been more proud to be a Democrat. The avalanche of donations prove many things, including the fact that millions shared the legitimate concerns of Democratic leaders who had the courage to express them.
I didn't want Biden to step down. However, I just donated to Harris, and will continue to write post cards, and support her in any way I am able.
Me too! Thank you!
I didn’t want Biden to step down. But I knew he would if he was convinced that it would be good for America. He’s not about to disappear and in some ways this allows him to get more good work done for the American people. Let’s let this settle a bit.
Yup. I have also.
I wonder how many of those $millions came from the millions that “shared legitimate concern of Democratic leaders who had the courage(?) to express them. Most likely it was followers of Biden who want at least Harris to represent the ticket. We swallowed hard our anger and rage, and stepped up.
My enthusiasm is in the sub basement. I will vote for the VP, but will not do so happily. I will vote for a Democratic ticket, because the alternative is unthinkable.
I am appreciative of the kind words for President Biden's service. But so many of those kind words only came about because people pitching hissy fits got their way. To my ears, your words ring hollow. They indicate go me that your party leadership is untrustworthy, but I think that was always the case anyway.
This is close to how I feel. My state has its primary next month, so my vote has not been discounted. But the way this was done........I do believe the media really hyped this up for money (I know clicks). But this was awful and does not increase any confidence in the leadership of the DNC.
Don’t transfer your media distrust to the DNC though.
I have plenty of distrust for the media that has nothing to do with the DNC. My distrust of the DNC has been growing on its own long before this happened. This just added to it.
Agreed. These people helped Clinton lose to Trump in the first place. THEY are the problem of perception of the Dems as elitist, because that's what the DNC is full of: aging white elites who need to get out and let a changing of the guard happen at the DNC, too. Do I trust them? I've voted for Democrats up and down the ticket in every election since 1964. I'm an upper-class white man. But I don't trust the DNC one iota.
I also don't have a favorable view of the DNC, but I do have favorable views of several state party's leadership teams including Anderson Clayton here in NC. But she is also defnitely NOT an aging white elistist!
All of our Biden votes have been discounted, but not the one you have yet to cast.
I agree with you. I will do everything I can until November, but then I am done. There are other worthy volunteer efforts where I can spend my time. The emperor has no clothes. This has all been laid bare for all of us in the grassroots to see.
What no one wants to talk about is the elephant in the room which was close political advisors who hid certain Biden frailties which came out anyhow and then did not give him the truth about the data they knew was disastrous.
In the end, it was the truth, given almost too late, that precipitated the decision. From Politico: Biden's closest advisors carried to Rehoboth "the campaign’s own polls, which came back this week and showed his path to victory in November was gone,.
Absolutely and what was not reported was that many Democratic leadership folks knew that Biden could not win and my bowing out now he saves both his legacy and the party.
Stephen,
How do you know those assistants withheld data from Biden?
On Saturday three of Biden’s closest and long time confidents met with Biden and provided him with their detailed analysis of both polling and donor data which was devastating to him. These same close confidants were responsible for developing the strategy of very orchestrated events and news conferences. They knew he had slipped a little and they also because of past loyalty did not give him the bad news of where he really stood. This was reported in the Delaware newspapers by lifetime Biden following reporters. What many voters did not know was how badly Joe Biden capability’s had diminished and that he did not have the stamina to actively campaign. People like Schiff, Pelosi and even Clooney saw first hand a different and fragile Biden face to face and spoke up because they knew that voters would see the same thing.
The President has NOT STEPPED DOWN. Please, he didn't cease to exist. He is still the most powerful person in the world, and will continue to be our President for another 6 months. He has a lot of work to do, and now, more time and energy to do it.
Yes! He still needs support.
I just donated again to the Harris campaign! I think most Americans can say screw Mitch McConnell and screw Joe Manchin
In spades.
That's the spirit!
Love your message! Totally with you, President Biden and Kamala Harris - Could not be happier, this is a very good feeling!
In addition to the subsequent fundraising success, which I imagine signifies many, many small donors and voters, I am excited to imagine the many attractive possible VP choices for the ticket -- especially now that the right wing RNC choice of JD Vance is cast in cement.
Let’s win this one. Full speed ahead!
We've all been through the roller coaster about this. One thing that keeps running through my mind is relief for Joe Biden that he doesn't have to keep fighting and being attacked. He is acting with such dignity which only makes him more of a hero. Let us all honor him and celebrate him! And let us all put our energy in moving forward with Kamala, who has been learning from him. Time to focus on the issues and freedoms and rights that we need to keep and restore as Americans. In Joe Biden's words... get back up!
In addition to Biden's dignity in deciding to step down and endorse Kamala Harris, Heather Cox Richardson points out that Biden had brilliant timing with his announcement:
https://fb.watch/ttKOHP-Wwh/
Much brilliance in this chain of events!
Almost as though it had been planned.
Everyone always, always underestimates Joe Biden. Let’s hope we can work this to our advantage 😊
I think he's given us a good start with the timing of his announcement. We've got just a bit more than 100 days to keep the momentum that started on Sunday building. We can do this as long as we stay united and don't start picking at each other.
Absolutely. She was amazing and worth watching.
I was hoping someone would post this link. Thank you.
Thanks for this link, Ellie. And thank heavens for Substack!
That's because Joe Biden has always been a very successful politician...but he does it quietly and very much below the radar.
Because he isn't a malignant narcissist like you know who. Getting results is far more important to Biden than getting credit for those results!!
Kinda like how he gets shit done. No parades. Too busy working.
Ellie, Thank you for this. I just finished watching it and I thinkHCR is right. Biden’s timing is impeccable and not having to campaign will give him six more months of getting things done.
I listened to HCR’s talk and took great comfort from her analysis of where we are at this moment.
I'm relieved, too. Relieved that President Biden is no longer pressured by candidacy. Thrilled that he can now proceed with his effective, hope-fulfilling presidency. Joyful at the idea of Kamala - President Harris, if that is what we are able to earn. I just now donated to her campaign.
I don't know, Julia, if this is the right time to showcase this story that Barak Obama told about his own candidacy. Hopefully, though, it will get people...Fired Up and Ready to Go!
https://www.theatlantic.com/video/index/513629/fired-up-ready-to-go/
Love it: "How one voice can change the room...Fired up and ready to go!"
💙💙💙this Lynell . Certainly helps boost my spirits and after a day of mourning, I’m “fired up and ready to go” . GOTV !!
Watched a clip this morn of Cheatolini this past w-end at a rally, minus the ear patch and amazingly “healed” as he rambled about “bringing back cement”. 😂
We’ve got this !🌊
Wow this is a fantastic story! I am FIRED UP & READY TO GO!
Loved this Lynell. Just what I needed this morning..
Thank you - and hooray for Obama - his orating is so spot on. I could listen to him all day. FIRED UP!
Agreed, Joe can keep focused on governing while Kamala campaigns. It's brilliant, if she wins (fingers crossed) I hope she keeps most of the staff and admin, these people know what they are doing.
Biden’s Cabinet and sub-cabinet officials are just about the most capable, able group we’ve seen for decades in the federal government.
I wholeheartedly agree AND I believe Joe Biden has just proved his intellect, integrity, and humility once again. His vantage point and experience are certainly better informed than mine; I take him at his word that this is the best choice at this juncture. I have worked really hard to convince people that Joe Biden is a great choice for our nominee. Today I feel great relief for his decision to step down - relief for him personally, relief for our chances to restore our democracy and take great strides forward toward that more perfect Union.
Kamala raised 50 million dollars in the first seven hours so we might be on to something here. . . Let’s stay united and fight like hell to keep our democracy. Rest up, all. We all make a great team.💙
I can’t tell you that I wasn’t shocked when I heard the news. I can’t tell you how I sobbed for My President. I can’t tell you that I didn’t want to one-handedly strangle those who forced Joe to step aside. I can tell you that we cannot argue among each other who should be the nominee. It’s Kamala and we must throw all of our weight behind her because it is showtime! Kamala is no slouch and you would know that when she was in the Senate asking questions to Brent Kavanaugh as he was auditioning for justice. She practically brought that weasel to tears. We know her very well in CA because she had not only been our Senator but our AG. We didn’t care what her gender or color was. We just wanted her to do the job. She did and made the police forces very uncomfortable. I have donated to her campaign tonight, what I can afford. ActBlue which takes our donations reported that small donors, within 5 hours after Biden announced he was stepping away, that over $25 million had been received. Right now, the total is $52.8 million! Folks, (as Joe would say) you might be getting tons of emails and texts asking for money for Kamala. Don’t fall for them. Send them to Spam or trash. Only give to Act Blue, the official Democrat organization.
Thank you for all of this, Marlene. I"m right there with you, and I'm especially grateful for that last bit: I've wondered who all of these texts are coming from and how legitimate they are. Maybe Robert will make sure we are all aware of what's true by posting this in his next newsletter? These are such precarious times and I wouldn't put it past bad actors out there to try to take advantage of folks meaning to support the cause of democracy.
They are and that’s why I put the warning out there. I am mad at the DNC too for providing our phone numbers and emails so every Tom, Dick, and Harry can bog down our computers and phones. Insanity!
Eloquent, Marlene. And very good advice on the text and emails from nice sounding fund raising sites. Now and throughout the cycle. If you are not sure a request is legitimate, please don't give. Go to Act Blue or the official candidates site, almost always powered by Act Blue. I would not be surprised if some of the requests come from Russia or Republican malefactors.
Right. Yesterday my thought was, "time out for the rending of garments, the tearing of hair, the gnashing of teeth. Then, back to donating (what I can), and writing post cards."
A strategy I use is to not click on the link in my email but to copy and paste it into a new window so it's not connected through my email. Once the sender realizes yer a "hot" one, they'll keep your inbox busy.
Kamala is no slouch and you would know that when she was in the Senate asking questions to Brent Kavanaugh as he was auditioning for justice. She practically brought that weasel to tears.
⬆️
I'm pretty sure she did with Jeff Sessions at his confirmation hearing for AG.
Kamala Harris rocks. And Joe Biden picked her. This election is going to require both humility and teamwork. It cannot be said often enough, we’re all in this together.
Thank you Robert. My emotions have been swirling all day. I voted for the Biden/Harris team with eyes wide open and would do it again. I am 100% behind Kamala Harris' nomination and judging from the swell of financial support from grassroots donors today, I'm not alone.
This has been a day for ambivalence and conflicted feelings. Sadness, guilt, and relief.
- My wife and I, both experienced in Behavioral Medicine, saw the debate and since then have watched our beloved Joe closely….And we have been worried for him. We were appalled at the horribly biased treatment he was receiving, yet we suspected that he was having truly serious early cognitive issues. We were very concerned that his trajectory would worsen.
- Given that, we were extremely fearful about the election, even though we felt disloyal in thinking so, especially given his extraordinary service of over FIVE decades.
- I was in church today when the news came as I was turning off the phone. Disbelief was followed by relief…. And then I thought:
Damn. Perhaps the old fox had one more trick to play….?
Was part of this intentional?
He waited until after the convention. It just blows away any Republican news cycle attention or bump.
He immediately endorsed his running mate in a wonderful affirmation of women and people of color.
And he has demonstrated once again just how much humility he has.
This I know: When I got up and informed our fellowship, the loud and collective gasp was filled with every imaginable emotion.
Sadness. Astonishment. Some anger. Much relief. Intense concern for Biden the man. Rapidly growing excitement - and an intense commitment to honor Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr. by winning the Presidential election on November 5.
EF, I also was appalled at the treatment received by Biden. But, as an educated person I honestly believed that he had an obligation to undergo a decent cognitive and medical evaluation soon after the debate AND to report general results to the American people. I realize that Trump also shows signs of decline and should complete such an evaluation, but his refusal is not justification to avoid it. For Biden to refuse such an evaluation after his shocking performance seemed like poor judgment from someone in such an important position and possibly contributed to Americans’ ageism and ignorance about cognitive decline, stuttering, and other issues.
Bonnie, I have three thoughts.
1) You and I have no idea whether in fact he underwent an updated Neuropsych evaluation. We only know what is reported and I guarantee that we would be the last to know.
2) It is well understood (and my own personal experience with my elderly loved ones corresponds) that folks in cognitive decline commonly do not recognize their own impairment. Faulty judgement is part of their evolving cognitive loss. As a result it can be excruciatingly difficult to persuade them to surrender any autonomy, much less to step down from a position of power.
If President Biden were evaluated and found to be impaired, there would be NO way to remove him without invoking the 25th amendment.
3) That route would take considerable time and be extremely hurtful. Far better that his most respected colleagues and his family persuade him. I strongly suspect that they have been working on this almost since the debate…. And we now have the outcome.
If he is impaired, OF COURSE he has poor judgement. To judge him harshly for his impairment is to miss the point entirely.
1. Yes, we have no idea if he underwent a neuropsych evaluation. While we would be the last to know in our current system, I believe voters have a right to know whether potential leaders have a serious health condition that limits their judgment or ability to perform. Instead, we allow journalists and donors to humiliate and drive a man out. That’s backwards in my view.
2. While many families and folks in cognitive decline are unable or unwilling to confront it, others recognize these changes and agree to be evaluated and retire if needed. The more we discuss these issues in a responsible way, the more we all learn to deal with cognitive decline in a nonjudgmental way. You don’t know me or my experience so please avoid your preaching. It’s not helpful.
I hope that we can all come together and work our hearts out for Vice President Harris. The fact that donations have topped $60 million in the last several hours since the announcement was made makes me hopeful. Personally, I’ve been hoping for this outcome since June 27 which has made reading your newsletter almost impossible for me, my family and many of my friends for the last three weeks. We’ve been loyal readers since the beginning, but we felt excluded and frankly puzzled. But I am optimistic. In addition to the $60 million raised, there’s been a phone call for an #ElectBlackWomen group tonight with tens of thousands of Black women taking part. My kids are much more excited about voting for Kamala than they were for voting for an 81-year-old Joe Biden. I hope those of you who are feeling disappointed will be able to join us. I am grateful to President Biden for his service, for defeating the orange felon in 2020, for leading us out of COVID, for supporting Ukraine and restoring U.S. leadership on the world stage and so much more. But I am also grateful to him for passing the torch to the next generation. I have donated three times to Vice President Harris today and will do all I can to help her. I hope you and your readers will join me.
Every single word, Ellen. Let’s do this!!!
All my thoughts in your comment. Roberts tone changed as we all muddled through this time frame. He was angered by those of us who had legitimate concerns.
I too feel how difficult this is for the Bidens. But Joe now has cemented his legacy as one of our greatest, most accomplished Presidents ever.
I live in a 55+ community. Yesterday there was a giant sigh of relief.
So what just happened to us? We demonstrated that we don't worship leaders - we are not cultists like the Extremists on the right.
If we view clips of Harris speeches and past campaign ads, we will be inspired.
Will the donations made by me recently to the Biden Harris campaign be transfered over to the new Harris/ campaign should she hopefully be successful?
Yes, they filed the paperwork yesterday afternoon. The Biden-Harris campaign is officially the Harris campaign. There are some steps yet to come, but they are really just formalities.
Step back from the political scene for a moment as we gaze at Robert's spellbinding photo of the Andromeda Galaxy, which is 2.5 million light years from Earth. 1 light year = 5.88 trillion miles. My math says that 2.5 million light years equals 14,700 followed by 15 zeroes, or 14,700,000,000,000,000,000 miles.
We are fortunate to have telescopes, photography, science, explorers, curiosity, astronomers, knowledge, questions, and so much more. If we can achieve all this despite wars, pestilence, natural disasters, fear, hate, and willful ignorance, then we should be able to save our democracy. Onward!
Good On You, Laurie!
I’m 74, and I don’t think I’ve ever been prouder to be a Democrat. My prediction is Harris-Shapiro.
Our party’s ticket will include the first Black Woman at the top, and the first Jew at the bottom.
How wonderful will that be?
Close in age, but I'm hoping for a Harris/Cooper ticket. Then again, my predictions have suffered a blow a bit recently. I really like Shapiro, but it just may be a bridge too far at this juncture in time. Also PA needs Shapiro, and Cooper is hopefully being replaced by Josh Stein here in NC.
Agree. A term-limited governor. Leave all the Dems in place. We need 'em!
I would be happy with Harris-Shapiro as well! A team of integrity, power and intelligence.
I was disheartened, angry and sad all rolled up in a huge bundle! That was around 11:30 am or so! It’s 9:15 pm and I’m on board! Bells on toes!! Seeing the contributions soar in the highest amount ever for a day ($50m) and listening to my daughter and her friends…I learned that they were going to vote for Biden reluctantly but now they are excited and will actively involve themselves. They see a future for our party to “get away from the good old boyz” party and believing it will now become more relational and aligned with their values.
Few things:
• Wouldn’t it be poetic justice when DT loses to a woman of color?
• Think DT will debate her? A matchup with a prosecutor and a felon?
Go, MaryAnn
Well,
being old enough to remember the political nightmare of 1968 my only concern now is that Democrats will again seize defeat out of the jaws of victory by making a big deal over who the vice presidential nominee will be. As far as I’m concerned that decision is completely up to Kamala Harris, but I don’t trust Democrats, even though I am one, to do the right thing. Yes, I also hope for unity but right now I’m feeling somewhat cynical. Joe Biden is a good man. He is a good president and he was unfairly hounded out of Office, but I will completely supportHarris, who I also think has the beginnings of being a great president and then whomever she chooses to be her running mate I will also support. I hope others will do the same.
I need to push back just a tad. We don’t know that Pres. Biden was “hounded out” of running for re-election. He is a very smart man and skilled politician….wily as a fox. I trust he listened to a variety of people and made his own decision. My initial reaction was disappointment, anger, sadness, but I quickly realized that my reactions were to the uncertainty surrounding this whole thing and that i can continue to stand with Pres. Biden in his decision to step down.
By stepping down President Biden has shown our country and the world a level of patriotism, dignity, courage, moral character that is so rarely seen. What a beautiful and extraordinary human being!
By stepping down he is healing us.
How paradoxical, no?
I went through a speedrun on the Kubler-Ross cycle today. I backed Biden until he dropped out, but there are times when things happen, and the best reaction is to just say three very bad words and then get on with doing what the !@#$ needs to be done. In this case, it's saving this country from fascism and moving it toward a better nation. That need has. Not. Changed. One. Bit.
Since I actually had Harris ranked ahead of Biden all the way through the 2020 presidential cycle for them, I'm now excited about this and actually contributed $100 to the campaign a few hours ago. Let's do this!
Thank you for your clarity and encouragement to keep our democracy safe.
I sent our president a letter via https://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/
Wish I had read Robert’s newsletter before having done so. It would have been far more eloquent. Following is my letter to President Biden. Though if you haven’t already, you may be better served to spend a few minutes listening to Jill Bickett’s letter to Jill Biden. It is stunning and heartbreaking at once, and a true expression of accompaniment, deep sadness, and strength, from one courageous woman of purpose and devotion—to another.
Dear President Biden,
I could not rest tonight without expressing deep care, and my gratitude for your lifetime of service to the American people, on behalf of the still-to-be realized idea of Democracy. For your commitment to the people of our country and to the citizens of the world, I am immensely grateful.
There is more hope in this country and world of ours—through your leadership. May we learn from your dedication in your remaining days as our president, and beyond them. I am rather confident history will remember you kindly for your extraordinary accomplishments. And for your courage to stand strong in the face of adversity from misguided MAGA voices, most especially that of the one who shall go unnamed.
Several times today since the announcement that you are stepping aside, I've been tearful. And I can only imagine more will follow. Your grace and sacrifice are stirring to my soul. I am sorry for all the ways you have become an object of the many who live in fear and act from that place, and those who are not truth tellers, especially MSM. And sadly, of those in our party who have not remained faithful, I am especially troubled. I hope to come to understand their words and actions, so that I not lose complete faith in them.
I am not ready to move beyond my sadness. At least not today and maybe not tomorrow. Though I promise, I will come to find whatever it takes to do all I can to nurture the flame of Democracy, so that we do not lose it. You have taught me that this is possible, by your unwavering life.
May you and your beloved Jill, and your precious children and grandchildren who you love so dearly, be ever blessed.
With a deep bow of heartfelt gratitude and affection,
Jean Tesoriero
Through a mountain of tears I got through your letter. Lovely tribute to a great man.
(Ellen Clement -NH)
Beautiful.