KDP statement on Joe Biden's decision to step aside

Frankfort, Ky.—Today, KDP Chair Colmon Elridge released the following statement on President Joe Biden’s decision to step aside as the 2024 Democratic nominee for president.

“For more than five decades, Joe Biden has put the needs of our country first. His presidency forever changed the trajectory of this nation and left an indelible mark on generations to come, helping families far and wide better realize the American Dream.

“It was Joe Biden who led our country through the COVID-19 pandemic. It was Joe Biden who tackled runaway prescription drug prices and capped the cost of insulin for our seniors. It was Joe Biden who defied the naysayers to deliver historic investments in Kentucky’s infrastructure, making the decades-long-promised Brent Spence Bridge project a reality, and helping more Kentuckians access clean drinking water. It was Joe Biden who fought for fundamental reproductive freedoms after they were ruthlessly ripped from women and girls following the fall of Roe.

“And when Eastern Kentuckians were devastated by once-in-a-century-flooding, it was Joe Biden who showed up to not only ensure the weight of the federal government was on hand to support recovery efforts, but to — as he always has — offer compassion.

“President Biden did more than just show up — he got the job done. While Donald Trump and his extremist friends may claim otherwise, one thing is certain: America is a better place because Joe Biden met the moment and never lost sight of who he served. This is a man who served as vice president to our nation's first Black president, defending him against unprecedented attacks, and who, as the Democratic nominee just four years ago, selected Kamala Harris to both break the glass ceiling and color barrier of the vice presidency.

“While passing the torch may not be easy, we respect that at times it is necessary. We thank President Biden for the many years of service he devoted to helping our nation become a better version of itself, and for his admirable decision to pave the way for a new generation of Democratic leaders.”