Political figures across the country and in North Texas have reacted strongly to President Biden’s announcement that he will not seek reelection.
NBC spoke with Texas lawmakers from both parties to understand what this historic decision could mean for November’s election.
U.S. Rep. Chris Turner, D-Texas, expressed his surprise at the announcement. “I was stunned,” he said. “There’s been a lot of chatter about this possibility over the last several weeks.”
Social media responses poured in, including from U.S. Senate candidate Colin Allred, who thanked Biden for his service and praised his willingness to put the country first.
“There’s a sense of sadness about it because I think President Biden has been an outstanding president. He leaves a legacy that will be felt for decades by the American people,” Turner added.
Following Biden’s endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s presidential candidate, many Texas Democrats voiced their support for Harris, though some expressed concerns.
“I hope the geniuses that pushed the most consequential president of our lifetime out have a plan,” said U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas. “Joe wasn’t the problem, Dems were.”
“I know one thing: I will only work for Kamala Harris,” Crockett continued. “If it’s anyone other than her, enjoy campaign season.”
U.S. Rep. Victoria Neave, D-Texas, saw it as a pivotal moment. “It shows this transfer of trust and leadership to a new generation, and I’m very excited about a potential Vice President Kamala Harris as our next president.”
While Democrats hoped the move would energize their base, Texas Republicans criticized the development.
“Let’s put this in perspective: the Democrat party just forced their nominee for President of the United States off the ballot,” said U.S. Rep. David Spiller, R-Texas.
“They just nullified the 14 million votes of their party members who selected him as their nominee.”
Both Texas senators shared their thoughts on Biden’s decision.
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) posted a picture of former President Richard Nixon, who famously resigned, without a caption.
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) wrote, “If Dems think trading Biden for his failed border czar is going to change anything, they’re dreaming…and if President Biden is not competent to run for reelection, he should step down from the presidency.”
Some Republican state lawmakers felt optimistic about their chances in November.
“I don’t know that it affects too much in Texas; President Trump is going to win Texas,” said Spiller.
“Down the line, Senator Cruz is going to win reelection, and hopefully, many of my house members, the Republicans, will be back.”
