Democrats are waiting to find out who their nominee for president will be after President Joe Biden abruptly announced Sunday afternoon that he would not run.
The news doesn’t seem to be shocking to many Southwest Florida Democrats.
Many Democrats say they’re more focused on policies than a candidate, but the idea of Kamala Harris leading the ticket seems to be creating renewed energy.
Lee County Democrats flocked to their headquarters after news broke and began preparing signs for a support rally next week in opposition of Project 2025.
Democrat Karen Edison said she was excited for a new chapter of democracy.
“I'm excited for young voters to have a representative from their generation,” Edison said.
Democratic State Rep. Anna Eskamani believes Biden's decision now opens the doors to many more younger voters.
“Him stepping back, allowing fresh new leadership to come in, is also an example of leadership. I'm hopeful we can stay focused on that as democrats,” Eskamani explained.
Lee County Democratic Chairman Jim Rosinus was taking the pulse of Southwest Florida Democrats and said most are comfortable with Biden’s decision.
“They are actually excited to have VP Harris in the lead at the top of the ticket,” Rosinus said.
He defined the difference between Republicans, who focus on Donald Trump, and Democrats, who focus on what he called important policies, like reproductive health and other rights.
“We are not a party of personalities, unlike another party I could mention. We are a party of policy and programs, and the policy and programs are not going to change.” Rosinus stressed.
Florida Gulf Coast University political science professor Sandra Pavelka warned voters to buckle up.
“This has really been a roller coaster ride,” she said.
Pavelka believes that Democrats have their work cut out for them in a relatively short period of time.
“They need to get a nominee, also need to get a vice presidential nominee to balance the ticket,” Pavelka explained.
It seems like Harris is a shoo-in since no one has stepped forward to challenge her and already a slate of names are being floated as possible vice presidential picks, including Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who is thought to bring in much-needed rust belt votes. Arizona Gov. Mark Kelly and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg of Indiana are also possibilities.
The Democratic National Convention is set for Aug. 19-21 in Chicago. Biden is expected to address the nation this week about his decision.
