In a significant development leading up to President Joe Biden's decision to exit the 2024 race, multiple donors have shown support for Vice President Kamala Harris as a potential candidate for the top of the ticket. According to sources familiar with the discussions, donors proactively reached out to Harris' team to signal their willingness to back her if she decides to run.
One donor, involved in these conversations, conveyed a message of support to Harris, stating, 'If anything changes, we are there for you.' This gesture underscores the shifting dynamics within the Democratic party as Biden steps back and endorses Harris.
The endorsement from Biden marks a significant moment for the Democratic party, with donors publicly embracing the transition. Dmitri Mehlhorn, a Democratic political strategist advising major donors, released a statement expressing support for Harris following Biden's withdrawal.
'Kamala Harris embodies the American dream as the daughter of immigrants who met at Cal. Her journey from Oakland, California, to the top prosecutor of the state reflects her resilience and strength. With Biden stepping back, I am eager to support President Harris,' Mehlhorn's statement read.
As Biden's reelection campaign faced a decline in major donations post the presidential debate performance and ensuing crisis within the Democratic party, the financial support for his campaign became a critical factor in his decision-making process.
Notably, big-dollar donors who had been holding back contributions due to concerns over Biden's candidacy began to show renewed interest in supporting the campaign. Sources involved in discussions revealed that these donors started reaching out to advisers, indicating their readiness to contribute to the campaign.