Biden is out. Let me tell you what is going to happen next on DU.

[EarlG]

As you all know, it's been my strong opinion that forcing President Biden out of the race would be a severe political miscalculation. However, that opinion is now moot. He has made the choice to step down, and I respect that choice.

Since March, Democratic Underground has been operating on "General Election Season" rules. This policy, which we have had in place for the last 20 years, means that once a presumptive nominee has been determined, DU and its members will support the nominee.

However, now that President Biden has stepped down, we will be temporarily returning to "Primary Season" rules. This means that members are free to promote and campaign for any candidate they like as a replacement, until such time that we determine a new nominee. At that point we will once again declare "General Election Season" to be in effect.

I understand that many of you will be disappointed about this decision. I am too. However, it is imperative that DU members understand that going forward, regular DU rules are still in effect. If you announce that Biden's decision to drop out means that you are going to withhold your vote from the eventual Democratic nominee this November, you are in violation of DU rules and your post will likely be removed by a Jury. If you truly feel that way, fine -- just go somewhere else to post about it.

It is essential that Democrats come together to defeat Trump this fall. Nothing is more important than that goal. The consequences of a Trump presidency will be devastating for America and the world.

I imagine that there will be plenty of passionate discussion taking place as this all shakes out. I urge you to please do your best to remain civil in your posts and treat your fellow members with respect as we see where this road takes us.

Assuming they want it, I'm also going to provide amnesty for members who were flagged for review during the last 30 days, if they were flagged for too many hides because they were pushing Biden to step down. It's water under the bridge now. All hands on deck.

[cilla4progress]

1. You rock

[TheBlackAdder]

240. I'm donating all my free money to Harris through DU's links

[ZonkerHarris]

2. I am focusing my wrath on the billionaire class of Democrats

[blm]

33. Specifically the AI and crypto bros.

Cuban, Spielberg, Bloomberg, and some others have been all in with Joe. Cuban warned us about those creeps.

[AleksS]

118. Yup.

Every single second of airtime, every cent of money, every word out of a politician's mouth that was wasted calling for Biden to resign could have been used instead to support him, and we would be miles ahead, instead of in this shitty shitty, and profoundly damaging situation.

If Trump wins, I hope they're f***king happy.

[ElleMac]

180. Eyes on the Prize

I don't like what happened anymore than you do. But if we waste even more time criticizing what is already done, we give the Republican's what they want. Right now we need to stay focused on our common cause. Defeating the Republicans. #EyesOnThePrize

[LymphocyteLover]

209. welcome to DU!

Eyes on the prize indeed!

[roscoeroscoe]

285. Amen

No sense talking about what's in the rear view window.

Eyes front! Stop Trump!

[NoSheep]

313. Welcome!

[RandomNumbers]

250. +infinity

I am sick, disgusted, and feeling betrayed by the string-pullers of the Democratic party. Fuck them. They get my vote in general elections because that's how our system works, and the other party is literally repugnant. But I cannot WAIT to replace them at the next primary election opportunity.

[CentralMass]

148. I think George Clooney was pissed that his wife didn't get "honored" for her work on a panel awhile back.

[Bucky]

318. That seems speculative

I'm assuming that everyone on all Democratic sides was speaking and acting in good faith, based on what each person judged to be the best course for the party and the country.

I trust Democrats, even the richies. Unless given evidence to the contrary, I'm content assuming only best intentions from any of the players on our side

I'm not blind to heterodox motives, even intraparty feuds, that our family groups break up into. But until I see evidence, for me, any Dems openly doubting other Dems gets too close to McCarthyism for my comfort.

[CentralMass]

319. Of course. I was speculating.

[markodochartaigh]

202. I'm focusing my wrath on the billionaires,

and the millionaires, and the hoi-polloi who would help an authoritarian Strong Leader take our democracy.

[DownriverDem]

247. Until we get rid

of Citizens United we will need those billionaire class of Dems.

[ZonkerHarris]

268. and we won't need any pesky primaries either

[Captain Zero]

276. are their donations flowing in TONIGHT?

Or do they have further demands?

[DFab420]

3. I agree with everything except the amensty. Just because the got the outcome they wanted doesn't mean they weren't

breaking the rules.

[NBachers]

143. Yes, there was a certain poster I was glad to see gone.

[demmiblue]

244. +1

[NYC Liberal]

4. Thank you, EarlG

I am upset. I’m angry.

But ultimately we’ve got to stay united. Whoever our candidate is, they need our 100% support.

[SlimJimmy]

320. I agree. Looking backwards is an exercise in futility.

[Lulu KC]

5. Damn, you're good

I appreciate your sane and steady leadership.

[MustLoveBeagles]

6. Thank you EarlG

[True Dough]

7. Wise move, Earl!

I hope to see some spirited discussion but far less of the "we are doomed" crowd. They're not helping anything or anybody (other than possibly the ReThugs).

[Siwsan]

8. I'm still going to vote

I just feel completely hopeless.

[we can do it]

11. Same here. I will vote but that's it.

[totodeinhere]

70. I understand your emotion. Myself, I am heartbroken.

But we still have to win this election. We need to do more than just vote if we are going to defeat TFG and we must defeat him.

[luvtheGWN]

75. The rest of the democratic world is counting on You

Frankly begging you to do much more than just vote, no matter who the candidate turns out to be..

[AllaN01Bear]

100. in a state of shock here , but will support all dems.

[chowder66]

93. I'm going to vote but I'm also going to be doing a lot more than that.

I'm going to push my reps hard on wealth equity, outsized influence and federal subsidies going to the wealthiest.

[Susan Calvin]

53. That's how I feel too.

I am still going to do my best imitation of enthusiasm, in money and in deed.

[Colorado Liberal]

77. Same here

Both in voting and in feeling hopeless. My wife is in tears, and you know what I can't say to her: "It'll be okay. The people in charge of the Democratic party know what they're doing. They won't let Trump win." I don't see anything remotely resembling a plan right now.

[soldierant]

151. I'm also in tears

Of course I"ll vote for whoever it is. But all the energy just drained out of me. I need to take a week off.

[Trueblue1968]

106. Hopeless ???? Oh please. Buck up, it is cheerleader in me... Get strong,, dont cry

We gotta FIGHT!!!!!!!!!

[Siwsan]

127. I'm just so emotionally exhausted from so much loss, over the past month, actually

Three feral kittens I fought so hard to save, but lost them all. And now my sweet Sian has joined them. I haven't really slept much for several weeks, dealing that crisis, so this happening has me just about at my breaking point.

I've taken my 'emergency' anxiety medication. Hopefully it will help.

[thinkingagain]

193. Siwsan so sorry you work so hard for your kittens

Please take care

[COL Mustard]

239. Hang in there, Siwsan....

You do so much for others and the defenseless...make sure you do for yourself! We need you here.

[Trueblue1968]

289. I know what a wonderful person you Are. Cat lover. Hubby cared for feral cats too.

All of our cats are rescued cats.no did not mean to be cross at you Siwsan.

So sorry for your loss. Your fire babies are true in Cat Heaven now.

[luvallpeeps]

225. It's okay to cry!

Get it out. I don’t like the way he was treated, and after he’s done so much for us he deserves better. Cry it out, then get up and fight.

[sop]

121. I don't care who the Democratic candidate is, nothing will keep me from voting straight "D" in November.

[Siwsan]

133. Same here.

This is just like a nightmare.

[10 Turtle Day]

155. And me as well

Straight D ballot, no matter who our nominee for prez is.

Right now I am in tears. President Biden was the best president in my lifetime. But I will support his decision, however sad I am now, and our nominee.

[OrwellwasRight]

296. The best president in my lifetime by a long shot!!

Whoever is second is not even close. But it is probably the right decision in the end. We must support the ticket at all costs, but I do hope they in turn support us, the working classes. We must demand no backwards steps on labor and antitrust and more progressive fiscal policies.

Unity now!!!

[Glorfindel]

178. That's exactly how I feel.

I have never voted for a rePuke in my life, and I'm not about to start now.

[Bucky]

310. Don't worry. You'll become excited about Harris the more you hear from her

They'll try to tear her down for being a woman, just like they did Hillary. It won't work this time.

They got nothing but a tired gimmick, a long record of failures, a fist full of dishonest gripes, and corrupt couple of bootlickers at the top of the ticket. We're gonna repeat, and maybe even beat, our 2020 performance.

[Siwsan]

315. I've always supported her. In fact, before Joe entered the race, she was #1 for me

I just always knew that Joe would be the most amazing President, and I was right. When he selected her as VP, it was perfection.

Maybe after I come to terms with everything else that's happened I'll feel less like hiding beneath my bed. As it is, I'm still grieving my poor Sian and it's hard to be optimistic about much of anything.

[Bucky]

316. I've got boodles of optimism. You can borrow some of mine when you're ready

"Winners always want the ball when the game is on the line."
. -- Gene Hackman, The Replacements

[Siwsan]

317. Thanks. I'm just going through a very rough patch

Topping everything else off, someone in the family kind of turned on me, at my most vulnerable moment, so every time I start to heal, something happens to smack me down, again. My kidcats haven't let me out of their sight, all day.

I see my therapist on Wednesday. Poor guy. Every time I have an appointment it is right after something awful has happened. I think he puts out extra boxes of tissues, just before my appointments.

Maybe if I eat something, I'll feel better.

[we can do it]

9. What about those who had posts hidden defending Biden?

[we can do it]

291. Apparently we aren't important enough for a reply or consideration.

[Bucky]

311. You ARE important. You DO matter.

We're a family. We disagree inside the house. Then we go outside to fuck up the Republican bootlickers and fight together as one.

I promise you, you'll feel great when we put Kamala in the White House. We'll heal together when we start to help America heal from the trauma of MAGAism. That's our job and our mission.

[proud patriot]

10. Thanks EarlG

Sigh

[Elessar Zappa]

12. Sounds good!

This site is one of the best on the internet, imo.

[Silent Type]

13. Absolutely. Appreciate you guiding DU all these years, and especially the past few unprecedented months.

[JohnSJ]

14. I am disappointed, but I am also well aware that we must NOW unite behind whoever that nominee is. While I assume it

will be VP Harris, I am not going to debate who it should or should not be. Let's see who the choices are.

[LetMyPeopleVote]

15. This is going to be a shit show

Link to tweet

My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.

[ms liberty]

45. Yep.

[Farmer-Rick]

65. This will not bode well

The Democratic party is going to have a very tough time.

[yorkster]

94. Tears followed by gratitude for Joe giving Kamala

his Presidential stamp of approval.

Bless you, Joe.

[RandomNumbers]

265. Yes it will be, and it has been. And it didn't need to be.

I will of course vote straight D in November - there hasn't been any other remotely reasonable choice in my district in a very, very long time.

But I am disgusted about how this was handled. I really, really wish we could get on with fixing the voting system in this country so that people like me could feel like we even have a little bit of a say in anything. Some "democracy" we have here.

[roscoeroscoe]

287. Beg to Differ

Thanks Debbie Downer, Eeyore... Mr/Mrs. Got it all Figured out Already

No chance, yeah? I'm happy to see a new generation taking the captain's chair. Go Harris!

[paleotn]

16. Amen and amen. Rally folks!

[Doc Sportello]

17. People have a right to be mad

But now it is all about electing Kamala Harris as our next President and saving our democracy.

[HighFired49]

167. It's time

Time to break out my old "Kamala for President" t-shirt!!! (Yes, I voted to Biden when that didn't happen.)

[quaint]

173. First we have to get her selected as our candidate.

[LeftLife]

18. Nooooooo!

Please don’t be true!

[Kali]

19. thanks

this is just WILD

[riversedge]

20. You got it. All hands on deck for democracy.

[LiberaBlueDem]

21. Newsum is my candidate

He can do it, bring us together and beat rump

[quaint]

89. I am happy with Governor Newsom's running of our state.

[WhiteTara]

139. good to know

do you think he will be able to vp? or is he going to push Kamala to the side?

[quaint]

152. I doubt he will be a candidate. If he pushes Kamala out, I will be upset.

What is he doing that makes you say he can't run his own state?

[WhiteTara]

156. news reposrts re him/California

could be wrong. he is very charismatic.

[Tikki]

224. Charismatic is not an action word..

Our State Democratic leaders have always been active in making the changes and keeping the good that
makes our State healthy.
I do understand that all regions of our Nation have their issues that need to be constantly dealt with towards resolving.
Most Californians are aware of California’s needed changes.
Our State’s diversity is an asset. Coming into contact, meeting and talking to everyone around you makes ideas come to life.
Sometimes change happens in the grassroots and then become plans that are legislated into laws.

The Tikkis

[Tikki]

177. We are Extremely happy with Gavin Newsom as Governor of California..

And we were Extremely Happy with Kamala Harris as our States Attorney General and as a Senator and now as our Vice President.

Our lives feel progressive here….an awesome feeling that makes us want more progressive plans coming our way.

The Tikkis
P.S. abtw..Our electricity has been on all Summer.

[quaint]

302. ICYMI: Gavin Newsom endorses Kamala Harris

https://www.democraticunderground.com/10143276905

[Polybius]

170. Same!

Gavin has massive charisma.

[Pisces]

22. Thank you

[Blue Cape]

23. The Democratic candidate has my full support.

After that, we need to have a family meeting.

[Butterflylady]

24. Oh, I will do it, but I don't like it.

I think I should update my passport.

[Music Man]

25. Well said.

Great ideas and good clarifications on things going forward.

All hands on deck, indeed. We have no choice but to win.

[COL Mustard]

26. I have the greatest respect for President Biden

I know this was a very hard decision for him and his family to make. Now I guarantee you that I’ll vote for whoever is at the top of the Democratic ticket in November, even if I wouldn’t have supported that person before. It’s that important to me that we all unite and defeat Trump.

Edited to add: I hope I’ll be included in the amnesty offer.

[SunSeeker]

27. K & R

[PatSeg]

29. I'm numb, I can't feel anything

[Hope22]

59. OMG....

Well there we have it. 😳

[PatSeg]

76. I know, I am speechless

[Hope22]

114. Yes........

[True Blue American]

163. Devestated!

[bluestarone]

30. A TRUE Democrat would NEVER allow TFG return to the White House

I LOVE Joe Biden. It's his choice, and i support that 100% I WILL vote for whomever the nominee is!! LET'S get this DONE!!!

[oldsoftie]

235. A true AMERICAN wouldnt want Trump to return to the WH.

A true Patriot
A true supporter of freedom
supporter of democracy
supporter of women rights
Etc!

[bluestarone]

253. YES!

[AverageOldGuy]

31. In my home, we are ready to roll

And I mean WE ARE READY TO ROLL.

We have been ridin' with Biden, and now we will ride with whomever is in the driver's seat!!!

[thinkingagain]

186. I too, was riding with Biden

But I am trying to look at this as we’re all on a democracy bus and sometimes in long rides you need to change drivers.
Let’s go Kamala.

[barbtries]

32. i didn't know this happened.

my stomach dropped, i feel weak. i think my heart is broken.

Harris. At least the people voted for her. i don't get why our country has to go down in flames like this.

yes, i'm pretty sure my heart is broken.

[highplainsdem]

34. Yes. All hands on deck. We have to win - for the country, and for Joe.

[Tadpole Raisin]

35. Very fair and though I am so sad I will NOT let media

or republicans bring the USA down. It’s more important than ever to fight the good fight.

We will do it for Biden.

We will do it for the country.

[SupportSanity]

259. It's more important than ever to fight the good fight.

hear hear!! well said.

[Moosepoop]

122. Please don't leave.

At least, not for long. We need you here. I really hope you reconsider.

[spooky3]

131. Bigtree, your voice is sorely needed. Please take whatever break you

want but please come back.

[bigtree]

303. just a break

...maybe after Kamala's nominated.

thanks, spooky3.

[totodeinhere]

161. Now is not the time to pick up your toys and go home.

That attitude will ensure a Trump victory.

[BWdem4life]

221. That's a bs reply

Bigtree has earned the right to do whatever he feels like doing.

[bluesbassman]

37. I'll do everything I can to get a Democrat elected in November,

but I’m never going to forget how we got here. No I won’t. 😡

[ramen]

38. Thanks for this. We have a lot of work to do here. nt

[greatauntoftriplets]

39. I'm crying.

This takes courage.

[orleans]

43. i'm crying too. nt

[totodeinhere]

63. Now is the time for crying.

Tomorrow is time for getting back to work to make sure we defeat TFG.

[markpkessinger]

132. People are entitled tol experience and to fully express their emotions right now . . .

The news is still fresh, and for some of us, quite raw. If several days from now people are still wallowing, then it might be appropriate to say, "This is no time for crying," but not now@

[Niagara]

136. Me four!

[33taw]

40. I am sad for Joe Biden, but we must carry on. This election is too critical. Vote blue no matter who!!

[RandomNumbers]

266. I'm not sad for Joe, I am sad for the U.S.

I feel like the road just got a lot harder.

I don't know who is pulling the strings behind the scenes but I am sure they took care of themselves - they sure as hell aren't looking out for me. And now I don't even get a vote as to the eventual nominee.

[33taw]

280. I am sad for Joe Biden. He clearly is struggling with aging.conract you local delegates and voice your

opinion about who you want. It’s no different than if Biden had died today, we would be in the same boat.

[RandomNumbers]

286. I'm "struggling with aging" too - but I can still run circles around the youngsters

in my field, when it comes to solving problems and knowing how to coordinate to get stuff done.

I'm tired of the ageist bullshit.

Oh by the way, if Biden had died, Kamala Harris would be POTUS, *now*.

I don't think for one second my local delegates will listen to me. If anyone who made a difference listened to me, they would have stuck by Joe Biden.

If the party doesn't nominate Harris, we will lose Black voters, I'm sure. And sadly I don't think she is a strong candidate.

[dobleremolque]

41. I'm still addressing my GOTV postcards to newly registered Democrats and No Party Declareds.

Only, I think I'll modify them with this graphic.....



Sigh. Better than doing nothing.

[Sparkly]

42. President Biden has endorsed Vice President Harris

I'm concerned that things might get contentious before and during the convention in ways that would weaken her candidacy and the party.

If it's "primary season" again, is she open to attacks? Is the door open for people to suggest everybody and their uncles as better alternatives because "she can't win" (supposedly)?

Would really be nice to have some unity -- even if everyone isn't happy, at least so that it doesn't get ugly.

[Polybius]

176. Disagree

We have a right to support any Democrat that we wish before the Convention. After, of course, we must unite.

[catchnrelease]

208. As far as attacking Harris

It was at least a month ago that I saw comments coming from the right, saying she isn't eligible because she's not really a citizen. Because her parents were not born in this country. HELLO--she was born in Oakland, CA! So they were trying to push the 'birther' bs again. People that are ignorant of the laws pertaining to eligibility will fall for this crap again.

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

245. Yep

Their racist slip is showing.

[kellytore]

44. Let's go Kamala!

[ultralite001]

46. Thx, EG...

TIA...

[William769]

47. Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!

[Mr.WeRP]

48. Thank you EarlG

[dchill]

49. Okay. Congratulations, President _______.

Hope it's not Trump... Or Vance.

[Escurumbele]

50. I understand but I don't agree with people not being able to say if, because of Biden not being on the race,

that they will not support the new nominee. I think we should be able to know how people feel, how people are thinking in order to have a sense for how this election will shape out. By not allowing people to present their opinion we all suffer from lack of information, I for one want to know how our fellow Democrats are thinking, information is power.

I know that I personally will support any Democrat who becomes the nominee, there is not even the slightest doubt in my mind, but we don't know, and because of the rule, we may never know how other Democrats will react to this awful news.

I am hoping everyone supports whomever becomes the nominee, but I also want to know who isn't, and why.

[mchill]

256. I always supported this decision, was not aware of these

DU rules, but now understand why I felt like I was a minority of one and just avoided coming here for awhile. I think Biden is one of the best Presidents of my long life and admire him for making this decision.

[mchill]

258. I didn't realize I was replying to you in my previous comment, but

I totally agree with your sentiment.

[wnylib]

51. OMFG!!! And that is all that I can say at this point.

[ultralite001]

52. Together...

we will weather this storm...

[nolabear]

54. EarlG for President!

No, really, thank you so much for your levelheaded leadership here. What a world…

[DonCoquixote]

55. the only thing certain people deserve

is 30 pieces of silver.

and while I cannot name name, a lot of the people who stabbed Biden in the back are themselves old.

[StarryNite]

171. Yup, because it never really was about his age or competence.

It was always about the money.

[gademocrat7]

56. Thank you, EarlG

[totodeinhere]

57. Thanks EarlG. I think that is a reasonable policy.

I, as many others at DU am heartbroken. But we must move on and defeat Donald Trump. I will support whoever is nominated at the convention.

[quakerboy]

58. We have to win this. lives are on the line

Probably a lot of lives. Literally, not metaphorically.

[mamacita75]

60. Thank you

EarlG for your commitment to democracy. I absolutely agree.

[GoYouPackersGo]

61. This makes sense.

I appreciate your leadership here. Longtime lurker, time to get more involved.

[farmboy]

62. Thank you. We're in this together.

[spicysista]

64. Thanks for this.

I really appreciate this forum.

[stollen]

66. democracy v. fascism

Those are the choices

[mjvpi]

67. E Pluribus Umun

[BlueKota]

68. I thought President Biden was a great President!

I will miss him as our nominee. I will definitely vote for whomever runs as a Democrat.

Beating Trump is all that matters, like you said Earl!

[dai13sy]

205. I thought he was a great President too

I would vote for President Joe again in a heartbeat but Earl was right - I have to think of our country and not just myself and President Joe has told us all what we need to do now. We need to concentrate, use our brains and find someone who can win NOW!!

[electric_blue68]

69. Ty, Earl. I'm crying, Stunned, and (still) Ready to GOTV hopefully for Kanala, but whomever.

[mahina]

72. Thank you EarlG for this place.

[MiHale]

73. If it's a Democrat ...I'll vote for a canned ham.

Really now is the time to stay the course listen to our President he will let the us know the plans

[Autumn]

74. Does that mean there will be no more smears against our elected Democrats allowed?

[totodeinhere]

86. We are only human. There is a lot of emotion right now. I think it will be

understandable that resentment against some Democratic officials who stabbed Joe Biden in the back will be present. But we have to move past that and all get on one team to defeat the fascist.

[BonnieJW]

78. Many thanks for your calm guidance

I completely agree. Just like in Frnace recently, everyone who loves democracy must unite to preserve our country and defeat monsters wanting to destroy all we hold dear.

[AllaN01Bear]

79. thank you , thank you , thank you times 1000000.

[AllyCat]

80. I am heartbroken.

For our democracy, for him and his family. For women, minorities, immigrants, LGBTQIA+ Americans….

Everything.

[ArkansasDemocrat1]

81. Get used to saying President-For-Life Trump

I'm applying for a passport tomorrow.

[Niagara]

129. Do you have the means to help get out the vote?

Phone banking or helping with postcards?


I don't have the means to move out of the country, but I have the means to help GOTV.

[ArkansasDemocrat1]

138. I'm Deaf and living on SSD

Not much left after rent, car, utilities and food

[Niagara]

144. I understand that

I'm feeling grief but I'm not giving up. Hugs to you, ArkansasDemocrat1!

[cheezmaka]

219. I feel your pain as well

[Elessar Zappa]

194. What sucks bad

is that most of the good countries don’t want people unless they’re rich or have a skill they need. So I’m out. Now there’s always Mexico but the corruption there makes our country look squeaky-clean.

[ecstatic]

82. Omg! I'm just learning the news! 😮😮😮

This is so freaking shocking. Is he going to give a speech or what??

All hands on deck, indeed! Holy crap!

[mia]

83. Thank you!

It's onward and upward from here. With thanks and gratitude to President Biden for all he has done and continues to do for our country, may his legacy continue.

[Drum]

84. "All hands on deck" INDEED!

Stay strong Dems and DU Community!

[emulatorloo]

85. Appreciate the heads up. Thank you so much.

Not happy Biden was forced out.

But as always, I’m blue no matter who.

[Beck23]

87. Harris will carry on his policies

Since Harris will carry on BIden's regulatory policies, expect the tech bros to target her next.

[Bluethroughu]

88. JB PRITZKER! KICKS ASS AND TAKES NAME KAMALA VP

[gordianot]

90. My entire focus will be the defeat of Donald Trump by a member of the Democratic Party.

I will donate money after the convention. I refuse to participate divisive self serving arguments.

[Jarqui]

112. That has to be the focus of ALL Democrats

I am disappointed with the ones who spoke out against Joe.
To me, that stuff belonged behind closed doors.
But I'd still vote for all of them to keep a Republican out of office.


I'm not surprised by this because those who spoke out damaged him politically.

Joe Biden is a very good and very decent man.
He's been solid as a rock his whole political career.
I hurt for him and his family but I'm very grateful for his service.

[some_of_us_are_sane]

91. My heart is in pieces

but I will support ANY DEMOCRAT in the race for the presidency. Our determination to get Trump OUT is now the primary objective.

"Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: you don't give up."

Anne Lamott

[samnsara]

92. i feel Joes health is paramount and I will support the Dem ticket even if its

Micky Mouse...however since they took away my Joe then damn well give me a ticket to get really excited about. Kamala and Gretchen!!

And Tay Tay singing at the convention and gotta work Barbie in there some where.

[BarbD]

95. At the end of the day, we are all Democrats.

Disappointed that Joe was not able to continue and unable to convince the naysayers. However, I have now taken my Kamala poster from her "For the People" campaign and hung it on the wall.
Question: Who will be Vice President on the Harris ticket?

[BWdem4life]

229. That's wishful thinking

But at the very least, it seems to me that we the people voted for her as VP nominee so unless she also drops out (she won't) they can't remove her from the ticket completely.

Or is that also wishful thinking?

[IzzaNuDay]

96. Thanks EarlG! No question I'm voting blue

This is an existential threat to our nation.
I am beyond angry!

[Maru Kitteh]

98. I STILL trust Joe Biden. He made this decision so that we can WIN against that OPOS

Orange POS.

We must respect Joe's decision and move forward to beat that screaming piece of crap.

[Arne]

99. I am hope full that this will be

just fine,
just fine,
just fiinnee.

[Lulu Latech]

101. My hope for Biden

My hope is that he is going to recover from this bout of Covid and that he remains well and involved In the party, and the election of whoever is nominated I’m hopeful that he will have time to enjoy His later years and provide support and knowledge to our next Democratic president

[liberalla]

102. Thank you for this reminder...

Heartbroken... but so grateful for this wonderful man and INCREDIBLE President! I will sorely miss him!

[Hekate]

103. Still in the first phase of shock. Meanwhile -- thank you for your steady hand.

Jon Meachem just called him Cincinnatus. Oh

[meadowlander]

104. Appreciate that. Thanks Earl.

[DFW]

105. I was hoping not to hear this news.

But now we have to play the hand we were dealt.

So, OK, let’s play to win.

Like an old friend of mine liked to say, “nuff said!”

[sanduca]

107. That was exactly my thought...

I support President Biden 100% and I'm against anyone that wanted him out. I said many times, he is the only one who should make that decision. If he did, then we can support our next nominee who should be Kamala. All the campaign money can be transferred to her campaign.
I also want to see a huge celebration honoring our beloved President Biden at the convention. That is a good way to unite the party.
He deserves respect, appreciation for all he has done for America.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

108. No problem Earl... I'm with you all the way!!

[Grumpy Old Guy]

109. Thank you!

[Niagara]

110. I didn't see this announcement coming at all

I thought that after Vance's statement yesterday about Joe stepping down would have been the key to Joe taking off the gloves.



I received this from the Biden Victory Fund on July 17th, so I didn't see this announcement coming at all. Obviously I replaced my real name with my DU name and I'm not an expert 3D Paint professional at all. I'm keeping this as a souvenir.





My heart is heavy and I'm currently filled with grief. I trust Joe Biden and I always will. Thank you, Joe!

[sarchasm]

111. EarlG is the GOAT!

[mountain grammy]

113. Thank you EarlG

Today I'm gonna have a good cry, a stiff drink, bake some marijuana cookies, and get ready to fight for Democrats and America... tomorrow.

[JustAnotherGen]

115. I disagree on the Amnesty

[totodeinhere]

150. I agree with amnesty.

After all, those who got their posts removed for saying Joe would withdraw turned out to be right. Should they be punished for being right?

[BWdem4life]

233. The posts weren't removed for predicting he would drop out

They were removed for suggesting he SHOULD drop out.

They were part of the undemocratic force that PUSHED him out against his will and against the wishes of the majority..

Huge difference. But nice try revising very recent history.

[JustAnotherGen]

234. I'm going back to

2020 when a lot of my AfAm group members were harassed. For writing things like "AmeriKKKa". It was true then and it's true now - but pointing out the realities of life experienced as an American who is black is divisive.

Eh? At least a lot of the bigots are gone too.

[kansasobama]

116. Voting Harris but after Nov 7th

I am going to send a letter with choice words for those who perpetrated this ouster. Donor class has betrayed the Party.

[FakeNoose]

215. I hope by then all the names will be documented

We should share everything we find out so all DUers can know who they are.

[lpbk2713]

117. My party, right or wrong, is still my party.

I've always voted for the Dem pres nominee ever since JFK.

I'm not going to change now.

[Ilsa]

119. You are very fair, very reasonable, and thoughtful of

the reality to come. Thank you for your wisdom.

[ybbor]

120. Blue no matter who has to be our rallying cry!

We must keep the White House at all costs. I support our nominee regardless of who they are. But what about all of his $? How is that used now?

[TBF]

123. Thank you for being the calm in a storm -

I joined DU when I was doing heavy volunteering for Obama here in TX in 2008. It seemed an uphill battle (it certainly was in our state!). But this too we can overcome. Si Se Peude!

[Mike Nelson]

124. All Hands on Deck...

... here. The Trump/Vance ticket must be defeated.

[Iris]

125. Thanks, EarlG

[spooky3]

126. Thank you, EarlG. Nt

[Renew Deal]

128. One of the best aspects of DU was that we can have discussions without STFU arguments...

Except for this week. I'm hoping that we can back away from those kinds of arguments.

[BoRaGard]

130. Thank you, Earl

[Ms. Toad]

134. Thank you.

I was hoping those unfairly (in my opinion) forced out would be welcomed back. I am glad that is your decision.

[Xiluleke]

135. New member long time reader

Ugh. In this fight still for democracy no matter what!

[Lunabell]

137. Biden endorsed Kamala Harris.

I'm all in it to win it with her!!

[NewHendoLib]

140. As always, perfectly timed and perfectly stated.

[The Bopper]

141. I'll tell you what happens

Most of friends aren’t going to vote for somebody else, that’s what’s going to happen. Forcing the best President in the last 100 years out shows my Democratic voting since 1974 has been wasted. GOOD BY AND GOOD LUCK hiding from the Trump Nazis.

[BWdem4life]

236. I think most of your friends will come around

And I hope you will too. This is awful but tRump will be a thousand times worse. Stop the bleeding first, then focus on repairing the injury.

[dreamland]

142. No Matter What happens, TRUMP will never gain from my vote. I'll take whoever is on the DEM ticket.

GO DEMS!

[redstatebluegirl]

145. I will vote for the nominee.

I will not be sending another dime to the party. Let the billionaires do it.

[Trueblue Texan]

146. I am totally FUCKING devastated!!!

I don't know how in the fucking I'll ever be able to watch any media again. FUCK YOU MSNBC!!!


I'm gone. I can't be here for a long while. Goodbye.

[RussBLib]

147. Thanks, EarlG. It's a pretty exciting development.

...we were already in the Twilight Zone. I think we've taken a turn to the Outer Limits.

The future is never certain. We are all grateful to Joe Biden and what he has done for this country. Obviously, a ton of work remains. People wanted a change to some younger leadership, well, here ya go.

I feel more calm about this than I expected.

We can still beat Trump.

https://russblib.blogspot.com

[farmbo]

149. Thanks! A sound decision, promptly made.

And I hope we’ll see an end to the postings asserting that “a handful of mega donors” engineered this behind the scenes, insinuating that the DNC is now somehow corrupted by money.
It is the GOP— not the DNC—that should be the focus of such criticism.

[Cha]

153. Thanks. I'm still Reeling from

the news.

We Have to Beat the Fascist Monster.. Bottom Line!

[msfiddlestix]

154. Well Done, EarlG. I am truly impressed with and admire your leadership..

I too am very disappointed, but as you stated the most important thing we do is beat TSF. overwhelmingly.

I'll take my own counsel as well regarding my thoughts which are quite unsettled.

Practice and do some wood-Shedding on new music.

I'll peak-in every now then..

[3825-87867]

157. I imagine the Secret Service will now get more funding.

!

[CentralMass]

158. I will of course vote Democratic but I hope there is an opportunity to select a candidate.

[Elessar Zappa]

263. I'm pretty sure it will be Harris.

The party seems to be coalescing around her and Biden endorsed her. Which would likely mean that his freed delegates would vote for her nomination.

[marble falls]

159. I will never vote for TFG or any other non Demorat. But I too angry be on DU for a while.

[MuseRider]

160. EarlG

You are the very best! I have always loved this forum and a good lot of being able to stay all these years is the stability you provide and your sane and calm guidence.

I always run my posts through the "will I get kicked off DU?" filter because I honestly do not know what I would do without this site to teach me, guide me, correct me, inform me and just be a large pack of pals most of the time.

Thank you for being here so we can function in all those ways.

[duncang]

162. I've already been talking to my family about this.

It’s yes I’m pissed he left the race. But we have a bigger problem if tfg wins. Whoever comes up we’ve got to support. The damage faced with a tfg presidency far outweighs hurt feelings now.

[liberal N proud]

164. Supporting VP Harris or whoever is the Democratic Candidate

PERIOD!

[justcheckinin]

165. Well my heart is broken

We have all been working our hearts and minds with intention of supporting Biden. I do believe this has been carefully orchestrated with $$$$$$$.

God help America.

Laura

[sagetea]

166. I wasn't going to come back on line,

but I did, only to read that Biden is out. They allowed the oligarchs to throw out our Primary votes.

I'm heart broken and very angry. Right now this is not a country for the people, by the people, and of the people. We are a country of greed. Always knew it, now it's plain to see.

Thank you Mr. G, I love this place you've created, and I probably shouldn't say anything else right now. They stole our votes, and I won't forget it.


sage

[Polybius]

168. Will there be primary forums added like there were in 2016?

For example, let's say a Primary forum with sub-forums for Gavin, Harris, etc.?

[Warpy]

169. You know they'll choose some center right, spineless nebbish nobody ever heard of

Describing what will happen if this occurs is not the same as promoting it. No one here wants to throw the election to TFG, which is what will happen because the anger out there at the primary process being stolen from the party's rank and file will be extreme, as it should be.

I would never try to discourage anyone from voting for a center right, spineless nebbish, we've all done it before, our noses firmly held, in the hope a far right lunatic could be defeated. However, this would be a coup, disenfranchising the people who cast primary votes. If it allowed to happen, it will likely throw the election to TFG as disgusted Democrats stay home. I don't want this to happen but it will.

This is absolutely the stupidest thing to have befallen the Democratic Party in my lifetime, worse than Koch funded conservatives running conservative southerners in a vain attempt to counter Nixon's courting of southern bigots after civil rights legislation had offended them.

That center right, spineless nebbish will likely get my vote so I can vote down ticket and against TFG. Such a person will never gain my enthusiasm.

[Elessar Zappa]

264. It's going to be Kamala Harris.

The party is uniting around her and Biden has endorsed her, which means his freed delegates will likely nominate her. She’s pretty liberal, so I’m not worried about center-right or anything like that.

[Warpy]

273. It had better be Harris,

because that's the only way it's going to look like less of a hit job on the party as a whole.

[3825-87867]

172. If I were the Republicans right now...

I might be a little concerned. Joe now is allowed to do anything he wants in an OFFICIAL capacity.
And I can think of a lot of things he might do because he really won't have to worry about S(C)ROTUS later.
GO ahead and smile Donny. Just keep looking over your shoulder...every day.

[Biophilic]

228. Thanks, first comment that hasn't made me want to cry harder.

[edisdead]

174. Beyond pissed and feel completely betrayed

There are a lot of liars about. And it seems we cannot call them out.

[PatrickforB]

175. Acknowledged and thank you, Earl. n/t

[BurnDoubt]

179. Joe's opinion is the only one I accept. Kamala! Bring It. The Felon, and Kamala For The Prosecution!!! Must See TV!!!!!

"Don't Make Me Come Down There!!"--- 100% Support Here.

[JJ101]

181. Issues have not changed--VOTE BLUE

The issues have not changed. Unite Dems. We can do this.

[ms liberty]

182. I'm not disappointed, I'm furious. The wealthy, powerful, connected and the media who love/are them

Have created chaos and division all on their own whims. At a time when we needed stability and continuity, they saw a vulnerability and took advantage of it.They have the power now, and does anyone really think they'll ever give it up, now that they know they can use it, win and get away with it?

I have no faith that the candidate we end up with will be OUR choice. I don't trust some process that's been created on the fly by a bunch of people with an agenda. And that's what it looks like they want.

Whatever happens, our only choice now is to vote for whoever they decide should be our candidate on the Democratic ticket in this election. They'll decide our new exciting process and the show will be presented to look as if it's all so very democratic.

But Frank Zappa was right, and the time has come. It's not profitable any longer for them to continue with the illusion. So they have taken down the scenery and they have pulled back the curtains, and now we do all see the brick wall behind the stage.

Fuck all of those people. They have homes in safe states, safe countries and the money to get there quickly. 99% of America doesn't.

[Elessar Zappa]

267. The good news is that it will probably be Harris.

Biden has enthusiastically endorsed her and the rest of the party seems to be uniting around her. His delegates at the convention will likely honor his wish and nominate her. Remember, the delegates aren’t rich, connected people, they’re, for the most part, regular working people who are the base of our party. They’re not going to do what the billionaires tell them to do.

[New Haven]

183. Presidential elections are about SCOTUS. Get on the Harris wagon now and stay there.

What I would like to hear now on DU, is a discussion about who would we would want to have for the SCOTUS replacements during her two terms. Harris is waving a blue flag, help her pick the replacements we sorely need.

[Blue Dawn]

184. Thank you, EarlG.

I am blue through and through.

I am sorry to hear the news today, but I will absolutely support our Democratic candidate.

[Tree Lady]

185. I decided to take the day off politics for my mental health

My husband turned on the tv and it was all over every channel. All I can say is fuck fuck fuck!!!!!!

[Cassidy]

187. Heartbroken though I am, thank you for being the voice of reason.

It will be very difficult to support a VP who has come out publicly against President Biden. I hope one of President Biden's loyal defenders will be chosen, but I will support the Democratic ticket, regardless.

[infullview]

188. I love Joe Biden and he did what he set out to do.

He goes out with my absolute respect for doing an outstanding job. I will respect his endorsement of Kamala Harris. She’s very capable and I know she can get it done.

[keithbvadu2]

189. i respect his decision and support Kamala.

The aholes of both parties are calling for Biden to resign now.

NO!

[Farmer-Rick]

197. Yeah, that's their next predictable step

Force Biden out of the presidency now, put Kamala in now.

Then disapprove of all of Kamala's VP appointments. Make her look weak. Force her to the right and she picks an idiot like Mitt or something.

[chia]

190. A sad day. My heart's with Joe, but I'll be voting blue no matter who.

I'm exhausted and discouraged. This nightmare since 2015 never seems to end.

[Wounded Bear]

191. As disappointing and yes, maddening as Pres Biden's decision may be...

That is ABSOLUTELY NOT A GOOD REASON TO STAY HOME and not vote this fall.

trump must be soundly defeated and we will need all hands on deck, so to speak.

[WmChris]

192. I'm disappointed but-

They could run a stray dog against the rapist, felon, lying, racist bastard and I'd vote for the dog.

[LiberalArkie]

195. As usual and as I have said in the past, I trust the delegates

To make the correct choice. People with enough truthful information and under no pressure WILL ALWAYS MAKE THE BEST DECISION

[Beacool]

196. I will vote for a rock, if it's the Democratic nominee.

This election is far too important. Every election cycle politicians proclaim that it's "the most important election in our lifetime". This time it's true. The damage that Trump and the extreme Right would do to the country would negatively impact the U.S. for decades to come. Unfortunately, I don't see Kamala as the winner. For whatever reason, she hasn't been a popular VP with the majority of Americans. What we think as Democrats, or if this assessment is unfair, is ultimately irrelevant. I don't think that she can win most Independents. This is a sad time for the country. I see us careening into a quasi dictatorship, an authoritarian state verging on a theocracy. As the daughter of a diplomat, I lived under an authoritarian RW regime as a child. Americans don't know what is going to hit them, and how difficult it is to rebuild a democracy once it's lost. I weep for our nation.

[ItsjustMe]

198. And now you're giving amnesty to all these trolls.

To hell with this forum, I'm out of here.

[malthaussen]

199. So, would saying I think the Democratic Party has acted dishonorably be a no-no?

By forcing Mr Biden to drop out -- and let's not pretend it was anything other than forced, as he went screaming the whole way -- based on what, exactly? They have acted with dishonor that is really quite breathtaking, IMO.

I suppose this election is less about personalities than policies, moreso than in many years since the policies of the opposing parties stand in such stark opposition. Most Democrats, and quite a few who are not, will be voting against DJT, the GOP, and all their works, and would do so if the Democratic candidate were a cabbage. How this will play with the genuinely "undecided" (if there are many such beasts left in the USA), I won't venture to predict. I know my limits.

No, the politics of this action interest me little, and are beyond my competence to assess. But the moral part, the ethical part, that I feel more competent to evaluate, and I am appalled that the Democratic Party have allowed a combination of money and biased Press cause them to force out an incumbent that has been one of the better Presidents, on balance, than most in the past couple of generations, and opened the door to incredible election chaos a scant four months before the election itself. How anyone could think this was a good idea for pragmatic reasons evades me, how anybody could think it was a good idea for ethical reasons eludes me as well.

-- Mal

[Stuart G]

200. Trump is worse than a garbage dump...He smells worse, and he is worse. .Anyone is better than Trump...I am better.

[blue-wave]

201. To say I'm thoroughly disgusted

is an understatement. Disappointed, saddened and angry too. Whatever will be, will be.

[ImNotGod]

203. life isn't fair, elections are corrupted by big money and we all must pay taxes, it is what it is. nt

[boston bean]

204. May be too much to ask

But i had hides both sort of for and against joe stepping down as i was undecided. Any chance they msay be reversed. I ask this respectfully. Understand either way. If not reversed i will just lightly post to avoid a potential ffr.

[lees1975]

206. I respect his choice. I'm sure it was made with the help of his family and close friends.

Biden has been one of the best presidents of my lifetime. Thank you so much for the sacrifices you have made for the American people.

[Burnnotice]

207. Defeat Trump

I want to defeat Trump Vance Dictators. Biden is a Excellent President. 💯

[gfarber]

210. VP pick

I am guessing Kamala will pick a governor of one the battleground states for VP.

[npk]

211. Biden has endorsed Harris isn't she now the nominee

She would have obviously been his VP for a second term if Biden had remained in the race and won a second term himself. I would assume that Biden will just pledge all his delegates to Harris at the Convention or am I wrong?

[VMA131Marine]

279. That's not how it works

It might make her the front runner, and Joe is showing great loyalty to his VP, but we are making another mistake if we just blindly go along with making Harris the nominee. There are other potentially strong candidates and we need to consider them.

All that said, Harris will get my vote if she ends up being the nominee.

[90-percent]

212. Wanted to repost on fb

But I'm inept at c&p on my android.

-90%

[DallasNE]

213. It Takes A Big Man To Do What President Biden Just Did

President Biden has been the best President of my lifetime. He was a manager type that just got things done under great odds. I will forever respect President Biden.

I am 2+ years older than Biden so I know first-hand how aging affects us and how the pace of aging speeds up once you hit that 80 mark. For that reason. I was hoping that President Biden would make this decision a year ago so we could have a normal process for replacement rather than what we face now. It is what it is so we move forward. I will not only support who emerges as the nominee but will also make a donation to that campaign following the convention in Chicago.

[Crunchy Frog]

214. Thanks. Just saw this after finishing a shopping trip.

I'm angry and I'm scared, but there's also some relief that we're leaving that state of uncertainty and limbo.

Whatever I may be feeling, I will vote for whichever Democrat is on the ballot.

[eric eckehiphjjooort]

216. Let's go democrats!

[usregimechange]

218. Amen, democracy is too important to be petty.

[Biophilic]

220. Thanks Earl G for your leadership.

I'm numb and deeply sad at the same time. I feel like I've lost an important part of my life. Of course I will vote blue this fall. I just feel this has made some irrevocable changes to both our party and the country. Whatever happens next things won't be the same.

[AmBlue]

222. Thank you, EarlG

And a heartbroken "Hear, hear!!" All hands on deck indeed.

[Dangling0826]

223. This is the first time I have really been scared!!

I think Biden could have won against Trump hands down. I am scared, there is sexism in the country I just don't know if Harris can overcome that. I will vote blue no matter who!!

[steventh]

226. This is Joe's worst decision since

he did not allow additional witness Angela Wright to bolster Anita Hill's testimony at Clarence Thomas' Senate hearing. I was angry at him then. I'm heartsick now.

[markie]

230. Yes We Can!!

whomever it is (assuming Harris) we are in and will win

[marked50]

231. Good Job EarlG. n/t

[TheDemsshouldhireme]

232. I always felt the real trolls

were easy to spot by the random capitalization of a word or two, conservatives can't help it, it's in their dna. See i shouted, you can't argue with what I wrote because it's in capitals. Too easy to spot.

[rrrru4ril28]

237. One thing to determine

Since we are likely going to go to the Convention, we need to determine how many states have a shot at not listing the Democratic nominee on the ballot. Once that is done, we need to get Trump convicted on more crimes and expose any videos we can. I posted live videos showing Republican testifying against Trump, same if there are videos showing Fox, OAN and Newmax clearly lying. These need to be posted on media websites not controlled by right wing leading media as they will remove it. Basically, local newspaper websites are what is left.

[Mr. Scorpio]

238. Harris 2024

Come hell or higher water, we’re sending Kamala Harris to the Oval Office.

[JoetheShow]

241. My First Post!!

My first post and it's on such a bad day. Like most of you, I was strongly against the President stepping down. I was disgusted and dismayed at the politicians who publicly called on him to step down. It's okay to send messages and have discussions behind closed doors but it only weakens the party to air the dirty laundry. I've lost a great deal of respect for so many it's disheartening.

My scorn and contempt for the news media hasn't been this bad since they aided and abetted GWB in lying us into a pointless and stupid war in Iraq. The pass they continue to give to former President Felon is malfeasance on a grand scale. I laugh that those on the right who don't believe anything from the MSM but believe everything they find on Faux News or Facebook that supports their stupidity and hate. It's hard to believe we inhabit the same country.

Thank you for to EarlG and all here who have made this a haven of sanity in an insane time. I've been a long time lurker so it will be good to interact with other like minded folk

[Elessar Zappa]

270. Welcome to DU!

Good first post, I hope we hear more from you!

[calimary]

306. Welcome to DU, JoetheShow!

Glad to see you weigh in!

This is quite a “morning after”, isn’t it!

But if it’s Kamala, then I’m a Kamala girl. Besides, I happen to like her anyway!



And frankly, we’re just waking up and haven’t started plugging in yet, so for all I know, Republicans could have set up a side White House of their own (since they’ve had a hard time winning this one) and installed Bozo the Clown in their “Oval Office”.

[less_engaged]

242. I'm disappointed but I will support Democrats all the way.

[DooverBeliever]

243. very sad...but will strongly support our next one

It is very sad to lose Biden. I was comforted knowing he was in office with all his experience plus his ability to surround himself with the smartest folks (not yes men). I am soooo thankful for what he has done for us, for the country, the working class...he is one helluva Pres.

I will strongly support our next candidate -- who ever that may be. All my friends will too.

We got this! We can do this.

[DownriverDem]

246. Who would be

the best non-threatening white male Dem to run with Harris as VP?

[maspaha]

248. Thank you, Earl!

As a newer member, I greatly appreciate your explanation. We are all passionate about our politics, however, there is a time when we MUST “fall in line”, whether we’re happy or not, for the sake of preserving Democracy.

[Afrocat]

249. Biden is old but his mind is still with us.

Trump is old and his fucking mind is rerouting, and splicing, around what ever is left of his diseased brain like the wiring of a Pinto that's been sunk in a lake. All The get out now people are craven dogs and Russian psy-op drinking momos. *looks at watch* We have about 15 minutes before they start in on Harris for not being enough of something or another.

[Lulu KC]

260. And too much of something else

Those bastards. But I'm ready to tune them out and look forward to all she can do. She will have a great advisor in Joe.

[wordstroken]

251. Heartbroken

Love you, President Joe Biden. ❤️
Thank you for all you have done for our country.
Time to support Kamala and her VP, and to keep Joe’s legacy — and democracy — alive.

[FullySupportDems]

255. Everything you said wordstroken

You said it perfectly for me.
It was so painful not being able to read what you all thought todsy, I lurk no more. Thank you DU, please be there forever

[Voltaire2]

252. You might want to expand that to include

all of the post hides during that period.

Just discussing the reasons why people were urging Biden to withdraw was frequently deemed a rule violation.

I also urge everyone to not lose focus on the objective. The presidency is the objective, which specific person we select is not to run is not.

[B.See]

254. Thanks for your heartfelt message EarlG

Just learning of these developments and I feel as you do. I feel for Joe, a great man and a great President, and I'm praying for our country, and for the world.

[634-5789]

257. EarlG, you run a nice tight ship. I see no problem.

[SupportSanity]

261. Thanks EarlG. Seems like a pretty sane decision. Not everyone will be happy.

But that is to be expected.

Supporting Sanity, one sane decision at a time.

[minstrel76]

262. Hear, hear.

[redqueen]

269. I'm disappointed but there's no time to do anything but unite behind Kamala

Jmho

[YoshidaYui]

271. I SENT IN 250 DOLLARS TO KAMALA HARRIS CAMPAIGN

yay

[NoNameGranny]

272. Let's not forget what's at stake

OK, so I first need to get this off my chest. I really despise how the media continued their 2016 position that fanned the “crooked Hillary” flames (all under the guise of journalistic reporting). Their incessant focus on how poorly Joe Biden performed in that first debate as somehow indicative of a physical or neurological disorder is appalling. Now they have achieved their goal of pushing Joe Biden out. Are they trying to hand the upcoming election to a convicted felon?

Now, let me shift to a more positive, focused approach. Now that Joe has made his decision (which I, reluctantly, honor and accept), our path is clear - whether or not you are a Harris supporter, we cannot stand back and hand over our country, our democracy, to a convicted felon who is consistent in his disdain for women, the military, the rule of law, and the Constitution. Our democracy is at risk right now, and it is extremely fragile. So many have sipped the kool aid, and believe the lies spewed by Republicans and DJT, without hesitation or any attempt to fact check. Racism never really died, but there has been a resurgence of overt racism and I fear it will continue to play out, and escalate, during the next few months leading up to the general election. My hope is that the majority of Americans will take a step back, actively listen to the lies spewed by Republicans, and take a moment to really think about what America will be like for our children and grandchildren if DJT is elected, and Project 2025 is implemented.

I will continue to support the Democratic Party, and vote for the Democratic nominee. Our fragile democracy is at stake. My vote may only be one of many, but I choose to believe that my one vote will count for saving our democracy and preserving our Constitution.

[samplegirl]

274. Many of us feel bad

I'm one of them. The gloves are off now. We must quickly move on as we don't have a lot of time. We can't be arguing about Biden on here. We must get behind our candidate and work like how flood, social media and whatever else we have to do. We can't allow Trump back in.

[joanbarnes]

275. Understood.

Thanks EarlG. I will have no problem supporting Harris/Biden (BIDEN FOR VP!)

[SayItLoud]

277. Agree 100% with this position.

I too am going to donate as if my life, your life, our country depended on it....because it does.

[rwild1967]

278. So... Not so democratic underground, then?

[snot]

281. Could we please have at least one Dem debate before the convention???

I realize time is short, but it shouldn't be impossible; and I feel we really need it in order to inform delegate voting, even if it's too late for another primary vote.

ALSO, I hope this whole experience convinces the DNC to do both of the following:

Always HAVE debates, and

Have "instant run-off" primary voting.

[TheDemsshouldhireme]

282. Just heard one of the talking heads say

the senator who most closely voted with Bernie Sanders was Kamala Harris. She is no blue dog. Its not like Harris is going to turn into some supply sider, it's why I dont buy this; the billionaires wanted Joe out because of taxes or some crypto guys. I dont see what tax policy would change with support for Harris.

[BlueWavePsych]

283. Kick

[recovering_democrat]

284. Well expressed and AGREE 100+ percent

no questions, no problems. THIS is the choice of the current President, and the acceptance of his recommendation of the current Vice President as expressed completely.

Will support their action and recommendations and will follow accordingly. I am seriously overcome with related medical expense recently, and am not able to do lots of money support. I will spend any dime I can afford to support the upcoming Democratic candidates enthusiastically and as much as possible. Awesome American US Citizens. Thank you.

[Martin68]

288. DU is an oasis of sanity. I appreciate the well-considered rules and guidelines that are in place to safeguard rational

discourse. I will do my best to abide by them.

[Dem4life1970]

290. My first post on DU (been following since 2003-2004ish)

I am a lifelong Democrat and I have been following DU since George Bush the appointed was President. I have loved this forum and over the years have debated whether or not I should join. I voted for Biden in the '88 Democratic Primary, for Gore in 2000, Kerry in 2004, Obama twice, Hillary once, and Biden once for President. I also agreed that Pres. Biden should stay in the race for many reasons, esp. due to Allan Lichtman's keys. That said, he has once again put country ahead of himself and made his choice. I was an enthusiastic supporter of Pres. Biden and am now an enthusiastic supper of VP Harris. Vote Blue no matter who! We have to stop Orange Julius Caesar from ever coming anywhere near the White House. Let's unite!

[TwilightZone]

293. Welcome!

I'm glad that you decided to join.

[Dem4life1970]

325. Thank you! I have loved this group for 2 decades!

[Playingmantis]

292. I am donating to Harris ASAP

Harris was a prosecutor who prosecuted sex offenders.. TRUMP IS A SEX OFFENDER..and she should say that during the debate..

I love Joe for so many reasons...and now..realizing that Father Time is catching up with him...has done what is best..allowing a younger person to run with the ball... Has the Orange Cockroach ever put the nation above himself? Think of how he killed the border bill for his own selfish reasons..and the scum GOP went right along..

And just compare the way Joe Biden spoke of Trump after the assassination attempt and compare that to the classless, clueless way Trump reacted to Biden's withdrawal.... Filled with the usual venom and hate..


Now I want Harris to tear Trump to pieces and end this national nightmare

Vote Blue 100% Democracy depends on it!!

[GoreWon2000]

294. DU needs to unite behind V.P. Harris!

Dictator tRump is the enemy, NOT fellow dems!

[prodigitalson]

295. HARRIS 2024! God Bless America ......LET'S GO DEMOCRACY!!!!

[hard2figure]

308. I donated and voted for Biden - now they are kicking him aside!

I NEVER would have voted for Kamala, let alone give her money! I feel like I have been screwed by an 800 lb gorilla!!

[prodigitalson]

312. An 800 pound gorilla is what is about to crawl up a certain orange asshole and start to kicking

will you be joining us?

[Beakybird]

297. Go Kamala! The public perceptions about Joe's age were insurmountable.

Kamala will save democracy. Let's help her.

[samsingh]

298. i love President Biden and Kamala Harris - the future President if we work hard to get her there

[Generic Other]

299. UNITY NOW

Anything less means Trump wins.

[wyldwolf]

300. This will likely last until Wednesday afternoon

That's when Harris will secure enough delegates to be the presumptive nominee.

[akbacchus_BC]

301. Great post and well stated. Magnanimous of you to grant amnesty. NT

[randr]

304. I am greatly relieved

I have often noted that there is a large hole in America at the present time. Both parties have a sense that things are not right. I strongly feel that we democrats and the Biden administration have held together what would have fallen apart if tfg had won the last election.
Regardless, the distrust of the whole system remains with both sides trying to define the large elephant in the room.
We now have the opportunity to embark on a new mission to more clearly define what the problems are and to present solutions to each and every one.
I believe it is our task to unite behind the future of this Great Country and show the world what it takes to secure a democracy and insure all human rights are respected.

[bdamomma]

305. Thank EarlG

for your most insightful post. We have a job to do and get it finished.

[Renew Deal]

307. 700+ recs has to be a record.

[Bucky]

309. I'd like that amnesty.

I actually avoided the phrase "Biden should step down." But I got a couple of strikes for making observations about his communication skills that made other DUers uncomfortable. One post included the word "teleprompter" which was understandably triggering, but entirely factual.

I don't regret any of that. I expressed my concerns about a not-yet-nominated Democrat because I was anxious about losing to a fascist.

I'm less worried now. I'm excited and eager to fight it out with the so-called Republicans (they're actually more like a monarchist cult now), but I understand if some DUers who opposed Biden's withdrawal are sore.

Ultimately, I think I'm a little more tolerant of dissent within this forum than the average DUer.. I think an open expression of ideas & concerns makes a democratic AND a Democratic culture stronger.

I'm 100% for Kamala now. But I'm glad to discuss with any who have other ideas.

[Karma13612]

314. I'm all in for the Democratic candidate

Along with the person that they decide is best as VP.

While paying my bills this morning, I also made my first political donation for quite some time.
I’m on Team Harris!
And although there are many greats to choose from, I’m liking Mark Kelly a LOT as VEEP.

I feel so much happier today!

We are going to kick TFG’S butt from here to Pluto! ( note the planetary reference in honor of Mark Kelly being an astronaut and all. )

[hard2figure]

321. WHO is that candidate supposed to be???

It is very unclear at this point who that is. You say Harris, but that has NOT been voted on by the delegates. Remember, the delegates elect the nominee, not Biden, Hilary, or MSNBC.

[Hanzzy72]

322. I'm for whoever the nominee is.

With that said, I've made my first political donation ever today and I donated to Kamala Harris. Biden endorsed her and right now I'm convinced that we need a fighter to push back against Donald Trump and MAGA. I believe her to be the right person for the job.

[Buzz cook]

323. Sad about Joe, happy about Kamala

I think Joe was forced out by the media.
Until I read positive proof that he was mentally unfit, that's what I'll believe.

That being said Kamala Harris will be both a fine candidate and when she wins a fine president.
I've already donated to her campaign and it looks like I'm just one of a multitude.

[SunSeeker]

324. The presumptive nominee is now Kamala Harris. You might want to edit the OP.

[anilcnair]

326. Biden is out. Let me tell you what is going to happen next on DU.

It sounds like you're diving into some political predictions! If you want to share your thoughts on what’s next for the Democratic Party or any specific developments, I’m all ears. What are you expecting to see?