General Assembly members react to Biden dropping out of presidential race

Following President Joe Biden’s announcement Sunday that he would end his re-election campaign, the political landscape suddenly shifted, and the news was received differently by lawmakers in the General Assembly.

For Republican State Senate leader Phil Berger, Biden’s announcement, following his poor showing at the presidential debate, was inevitable. Berger, who represents Guilford and Rockingham counties, questions both the timing of the news as well as the way it was delivered: a letter posted on X.

"Very unusual," says Berger. "You would think that a decision of that import, and that notoriety as far as the public is concerned would have come from some sort of announcement in person with television, radio, print all there to record the event."

Democratic State Senator Paul Lowe represents Forsyth County. Lowe says he was prepared to stand behind President Biden had he decided to stay in the race. But he concedes that he and many of his colleagues in the General Assembly breathed a collective sigh of relief at Sunday’s announcement which Lowe describes as a courageous thing to do.

"You know, President Biden did an extraordinary job and was an extraordinary president," says Lowe. "You know he’s been a major leader in Washington a long, long time and a major player. So, we’re certainly thankful for all the work he’s done. I think Father Time has a way of catching us sometimes."

Lowe says he now firmly supports Vice President Kamala Harris’ candidacy.