Kamala Harris ends presidential campaign
U.S. Sen. Kamala Harris ended her 2020 presidential campaign Tuesday.
Harris first informed her staff of her decision, then issued a statement to supporters.
“My campaign for president simply doesn’t have the financial resources we need to continue,” Harris said. “I’m not a billionaire. I can’t fund my own campaign. And as the campaign has gone on, it’s become harder and harder to raise the money we need to compete.
“It is with deep regret — but also with deep gratitude — that I am suspending my campaign today.”
To my supporters, it is with deep regret—but also with deep gratitude—that I am suspending my campaign today.
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) December 3, 2019
But I want to be clear with you: I will keep fighting every day for what this campaign has been about. Justice for the People. All the people.https://t.co/92Hk7DHHbR
Harris' withdrawal comes after she canceled a high-profile New York fundraiser, according to CNBC. Edward-Isaac Dovere, staff writer for The Atlantic, also broke the news:
NEWS - Kamala Harris is dropping out of the presidential election today, I'm told reliably. She's informing staff now.
— Edward-Isaac Dovere (@IsaacDovere) December 3, 2019
Harris was one of 10 White House hopefuls, including former Vice President Joe Biden, who participated in Atlanta's Democratic presidential debate in November at Tyler Perry Studios.
After the debate, Harris picked up the endorsements of several metro Atlanta lawmakers.
Biden called Harris “a first-rate intellect,” “a first-rate candidate” and “a real competitor” when he was told that Harris had dropped out.
Here's Joe Biden reaction when told by reporters in Iowa that Kamala Harris is dropping out ("she is a first-rate intellect, first-rate candidate, real competitor ... mixed emotions") -- plus his reaction when reporter asks if he would consider Harris for VP (he walks away) pic.twitter.com/jdqMQX83tZ
— Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) December 3, 2019
Another Democrat running for president, Julian Castro, issued this statement on Twitter:
I’m so thankful for @KamalaHarris’s friendship and candidacy in this race.
— Julián Castro (@JulianCastro) December 3, 2019
As a child of immigrants, she’s been a lifelong fighter for opportunity and justice for all Americans, and I’m glad she’ll keep fighting for an America where everyone counts. pic.twitter.com/09XFGYG7BD
Other Democratic White House hopefuls congratulated Harris on her candidacy:
Sending my best wishes to @KamalaHarris, her family & supporters who have campaigned so hard. While we disagree on some issues, we agree on others & I respect her sincere desire to serve the American people. I look forward to working together on the challenges we face as a nation
— Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) December 3, 2019
I am stunned that Kamala Harris is suspending her campaign. She is one of my favorite people to share time with on the trail. So warm, smart, fiery and a true public servant. She offered my family help and guidance when she didn’t need to. Kamala I will see you soon.
— Andrew Yang🧢 (@AndrewYang) December 3, 2019
Harris is the second Democrat this week to end their White House aspirations. On Monday, Montana Gov. Steve Bullock dropped out of the race.
Former U.S. Sen. and first lady Hillary Clinton congratulated the candidates on their efforts:
To all the candidates, staff, and volunteers who have worked their hearts out for presidential campaigns that have ended—remember that fighting for what you believe in is always worth it.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) December 3, 2019
Harris ended her campaign as her polling numbers continued to fall during the last several months. In early November, Harris moved staff from several early voting states to Iowa in hopes of making a strong showing in the leadoff caucus state.
