The news of United States President Joe Biden dropping out of the hotly contested 2024 Presidential election has been received with mixed reactions by Kenyans on social media, specifically on X (formerly Twitter).
Through his X handle on July 21, President Biden announced in a sudden twist that he has decided to drop out of the race in the best interest of the people of the United States and the Democratic Party, which has spoken loudly regarding the issue.
US President Joe Biden gestures during a past rally
In his message, Biden went on to endorse his Vice President, Kamala Harris, to lead the Democrats ahead of the November election, where she is expected to face off with former President Donald Trump, who has continued to make inroads.
“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,” President Biden wrote on X shortly after releasing a media statement explaining why he has decided to withdraw from the 2024 White House race.
US President Joe Biden and his VP Kamala Harris
In Kenya, influential figures and ordinary citizens have reacted differently to the news. Some thanked Biden for exiting the race and being realistic, while others took the opportunity to urge President William Ruto to follow in Biden’s footsteps.
Below are some of the reactions from Kenyans:
Miguna Miguna: Mr. William Ruto’s primary enabler, Joe Biden, has been FORCED out. This is wonderful news. With the Kenyan revolutionary patriots, Gen Zs, and Millennials preparing to march in huge numbers all over the country, including at the JKIA, CBD, and Parliament Square, #RutoMustGo. Let’s stay on the streets DAILY until Ruto falls. No retreat. No surrender. Viva!
Mike Sonko: Joe Biden withdraws from the US presidential race.
Okiyah Omtatah: Interesting times. Joe Biden is out of the race.
