By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D.
The uncertainty about President Joe Biden’s bid to get another four years in the White House had reached a boiling point.
Day and night, operatives were talking about the Biden campaign. Critics wanted him to take mental acuity tests to judge his fitness for office.
When we saw the president in the public square, we would kindly say that he has lost a step. We who believed steadfastly in his candidacy wanted him to stay in the race. Yet no matter what, President Joe Biden tried to defy the odds and put his critics to rest. His record of accomplishments is exemplary. He is a true American patriot.
This phrase has been used about him by friend and foe alike. Reports, even from his inner circle, suggested he would continue in the race and not be fazed by the mounting crescendo of criticism that was comforting him.
When America went to bed on last Saturday night, there was still a light on for President Biden. We woke up Sunday morning still thinking he was the presumptive Democratic nominee. We were still ready, willing and able to be his surrogate soldiers. Why? Because over time, he has proved that he is for the people.
On Sunday, July 21st around 2pm, President Joe Biden stepped aside as the Democratic nominee and will not be seeking a second term. This had not been done since President Lyndon B. Johnson did not seek a second term in 1967.
This sudden turn of events took many of us by surprise. However, his major advisors say that he has been thinking about this possibility for a few days according to reports. History tells us that he is quite methodical in his decision-making.
This time was no different. So, we know now President Joe Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic nominee. What are the next steps? These are my opinions. The Democratic Party must become unified and stay that way. At this moment, they are fractured. The acrimony over President Joe Biden has caused deep divisions within the party.
The Democratic National Convention will be held in Chicago August 19-22. When that time comes, Kamala Harris’ name must be the only name in nomination.
While some Democrats are hesitant to endorse her, the time is now to do it.
Vice President Kamala Harris has the name recognition and the experience to become the next president.
She has worked alongside of President Biden during these challenging yet rewarding times. She knows the White House and the inner working of it.
Vice President Harris has garnered the respect of world leaders and will be ready for the position of president on day one.
In addition, her stints as attorney general of the state of California and US Senator will enhance her credibility as she goes on the campaign trail. Our votes are needed for the vice president to become president.
In a statement on Sunday, Vice President Harris said, “I am honored to have President Biden’s endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination.
Over the past year, I have traveled across the country, talking with Americans about the clear choice in this momentous election. I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party and unite our nation to defeat Donald Trump and his extreme Project 2025 agenda. We have 107 days until Election Day. Together we will fight. And together, we will win.”
Democrats, it’s winning time. Leaders in the party, endorse Vice President Harris’ candidacy in the next twenty-four hours.
Don’t wait and don’t delay. Show the world that you can build together and bind together to make Vice President Ka- mala Harris the next President of the United States of America.
Dr. James B. Ewers, Jr. is a longtime educator who hails rom Winston Salem, N.C. Ewers is a life member of the NAACP and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
