Pelosi says Biden ‘has always put our country first’ after he ends campaign

Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D) praised President Biden as a “patriotic American” who puts his country before himself, following his decision not to accept the party’s nomination at the Democratic convention.

“President Joe Biden is a patriotic American who has always put our country first. His legacy of vision, values and leadership make him one of the most consequential Presidents in American history,” Pelosi wrote in a statement.

“With love and gratitude to President Biden for always believing in the promise of America and giving people the opportunity to reach their fulfillment,” Pelosi continued. “God blessed America with Joe Biden’s greatness and goodness.”

Pelosi has been instrumental in nudging the president toward making the decision to step aside, an effort that reportedly began after Biden’s poor debate performance a few weeks ago.

Pelosi listened to members, huddled with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and called former President Obama. And then she appeared on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” — Biden’s favorite news program — to drop her first hints. “I want him to do whatever he decides to do,” she said at the time. “And that’s the way it is, whatever he decides we go with.” 

Behind the scenes last week, Pelosi relayed her concerns to Biden about what she’s been hearing from members, coupled with the fact that polls show he was going to lose to former President Trump. She has also told some allies in recent days that she’s worried about fundraising, which had slowed down tremendously.  

One House Democrat said this past week that it’s apparent Pelosi had presented data to Biden that “can’t be dismissed or denied,” and that she is “helping the White House understand the consequences that will flow if that data materializes in the election.” 

“Once she weighs in, it’s done,” one Democratic strategist said before Biden dropped out. “He wanted the Lord Almighty. Well, this is the Lord Almighty.”

In her statement, Pelosi stopped short of making any endorsement, including of Vice President Harris, who is broadly seen as the front-runner to replace Biden at the top of the ticket. Pelosi reportedly signaled support recently for a “competitive” process at the convention.

Biden endorsed Harris shortly after making the announcement that he was suspending his campaign.

“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,” Biden posted on the social platform X. “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,” he added.