Florida political leaders react to Joe Biden dropping out of presidential race

Maxwell Frost gets to hang with a couple of VIPs.

President Joe Biden ended weeks of speculation and announced he would not seek re-election. The news prompted swift reactions among Florida’s political leaders, with Democrats praising the outgoing executive and Republicans questioning if he should finish out his term.

U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, a Naples Republican, released a statement: “Let me be clear, if Joe Biden can’t run for re-election, he is not capable of serving as president for the next six months and needs to resign today. For four years, those closest to Joe Biden, including Kamala Harris, knew he was not fit to be President and lied to the American people in an effort to hold onto their power. It was painfully clear that Biden wasn’t competent for office going way back to 2021. Democrats laughed when I said Biden should be removed from office after his deadly Afghanistan withdrawal disaster. They’re not laughing now. Over those four years, we have seen immense damage done to our country. Our border is wide-open, inflation is crushing American families, and countless Americans have lost their lives at home and abroad due to the policy decisions of Joe Biden and his ‘border czar’ Kamala Harris. The Democrats’ hypocrisy knows no bounds. The same people who spent years saying President Trump and Republicans are a threat to democracy, just pushed out the sitting President from running for re-election because they don’t think he can win. Let’s be clear – Washington’s Democrat elite went around the will of Democrat voters who picked Biden to be their nominee. They think they know better than the American people and will stop at nothing to hold on to power. While we welcome the news that one of America’s most destructive presidents will be denied a second term, it changes very little as to the stakes of this election. We cannot allow the American dream to be destroyed and replaced with California socialism. Come November, we will defeat the Democrats, elect Donald J. Trump, take back the Senate and the House, and save our country.”

Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, posted: “Kamala Harris was complicit in a massive coverup to hide and deny the fact that Joe Biden was not capable of discharging the duties of the office. She also was the the border czar during the worst border crisis in American history. Democrats are just rearranging the deck chairs.”

U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean, a Fernandina Beach Republican, posted: “Though President Biden recognized his political career was going to end in November at the ballot box, forgoing a re-election bid is not enough. His long service to the country must also end, due to his inability to fulfill his oath of office. “To the best of my ability,” in President Biden’s case, is not enough to lead the free world. It is his ability that is impaired, and it is apparent he should resign the presidency immediately, as he is incapable of performing his duties.

U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack, a Gainesville Republican, posted: “With Biden refusing to stand for re-election, there is no doubt that we are in the uncharted waters. If Joe Biden is unfit to run for re-election then he’s unfit to serve the remainder of his term. Furthermore, Americans from coast to coast are rightfully furious at the Democratic Party elites for undermining the democratic process and not allowing millions of voters a voice in who their party’s nominee is. Regardless of politics, I agree with them that this is wrong and un-American. One thing for is certain is that the GOP allowed voters a say in the process, we are now fully unified, and we are more than ready to govern on day one.”

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, a Tampa Democrat, released a statement: “Joe Biden is once again showing true leadership by putting the country above all else. He has led one of the most historic presidencies of my lifetime: recovering from the pandemic, massive job growth, lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, investing in infrastructure, increasing gun safety, caring for our veterans, and passing the most sweeping investments in our clean energy future. And now is an exciting time for him to pass the torch. There is a lot at stake in this election and I have full confidence in Vice President Harris. She is a fighter who stands up for reproductive freedoms, civil rights, lowering costs for families and lifting up all Americans. I look forward to working for her election and defeating Donald Trump.”

U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a Miramar Democrat, posted: “I have been an avid supporter of President Biden and his administration since the beginning of this campaign. And today, my unwavering stance remains unchanged. I fully stand behind President Biden’s decision to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic nominee. She is undoubtedly the only candidate who is well-equipped to beat Donald Trump and lead our country as the next president.”

U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn, a Panama City Republican, posted: “Biden admits he is not fit for office. Dems pushed him off the ticket in an attempt to replace him with someone better. It doesn’t matter who runs, the liberal agenda has been disastrous for America! President Trump is the only leader who can Make America Great Once Again!”

U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, a West Palm Beach Democrat, released a statement: “I am tremendously thankful for all President Biden has done and continues to do for our country and the world. His decency and patriotism have been a mark of his extraordinary service. I look forward to working with him as he finished his term as he fights for democracy, freedom and economic security.”

U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, an Orlando Democrat, released a statement: “President Joe Biden will go down as one of the most effective and progressive presidents in our country’s history. For his selfless service and commitment to our great country and republic – our nation and party will forever be indebted to him. As gun violence devastates our communities relentlessly, he pushed for and passed the first piece of gun violence prevention legislation in 30 years. As the climate crisis continues to be an existential threat to humanity, he’s dedicated more resources to fighting climate change than any other administration. As working folks across America struggle to make ends meet, he took the unprecedented step of canceling student debt, never taking no for an answer when it came to getting folks relief. He proved to us time and time again that he was a champion of the people and of our movement – I will never forget and will forever be honored for the opportunity to work and stand alongside him as he made history by establishing the first ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention. President Biden inherited a country ravaged by a global pandemic, an economy in the dumps, and a people who had lost faith in their country and democracy. He will leave this presidency having strengthened our republic, revived our economy, protected working families, and changed lives. I am proud to have stood by his side.  Make no mistake, the threat of fascism and authoritarianism is real in our country. Which is why now, we must look forward. Many vulnerable communities across the country will not survive another Trump Administration. It is important for our party to come together around a candidate who can beat him — which is why I am proud to offer my full support and endorsement to Vice President Kamala Harris. Vice President Harris has been a critical partner to President Biden during his historic presidency and is ready to take Donald Trump to task on the campaign trail and more importantly, to inspire a nation. It’s time to get to work to elect Kamala Harris and once again make history.”

U.S. Rep. Carlos Giménez, a Miami-Dade Republican, posted: “President Biden is not fit to serve as our Commander-in-Chief. I’m calling on President Biden to resign — now.”

U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a St. Petersburg Republican, posted: “Called this months ago and the media laughed. Guess who was right?”

U.S. Rep. Brian Mast, a Stuart Republican, posted: “At yesterday’s rally in Michigan, I said there was only one person in this race that is fighting to make America worth the sacrifice of America’s veterans – Donald Trump. Now, there’s literally only one person in this race, period.”

U.S. Rep. Cory Mills, a New Smyrna Beach Republican, posted: “If Biden is not fit to run for reelection, then he’s not fit to run the country. If Biden is too feeble to be charged with mishandling of classified documents as Special Counsel, Robert Hur stated, then he’s too feeble to run the country. We need Pres. Trump back in the White House.”

U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, a Parkland Democrat, posted: “He is a patriot! And one of the most successful public servants in American History. His record of service may never be seen again. I hereby endorse Kamala Harris!”

U.S. Rep. John Rutherford, a Jacksonville Republican, posted: “Not surprised that President Biden is withdrawing from the race. Fact of the matter is, the Democrat messenger AND the message have both been rejected by the country. Democrats will not be able to change their message so easily. Trump/Vance 2024!”

U.S. Rep. Darren Soto, a Kissimmee Democrat, posted: “President Biden will go down as one of the most consequential one-term presidents in U.S. history. He led us out of the pandemic and helped us rebuild infrastructure, boost manufacturing, lower healthcare costs, expand vets’ benefits and combat climate change. Thanks for your service! “

U.S. Rep. Greg Steube, a Sarasota Republican, posted: “Not running for reelection is a clear admission that President Trump was right all along about Biden not being mentally fit enough to serve as Commander-in-Chief. It’s disturbing and reckless that he’s been ‘running’ the country as long as he has… Let me repeat: if he doesn’t have the mental fitness to be re-elected in 4 short months, he doesn’t have the mental fitness to be President RIGHT NOW.”

U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz, a St. Augustine Republican, posted: “If President Biden isn’t fit to run for re-election, he isn’t fit to continue as commander-in-chief. He should resign. We are in a period of maximum danger with a wide open southern border and the world on fire.”

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a Weston Democrat, posted: “I love and respect Joe Biden immensely and I have total faith in Kamala Harris and the American people who will help us beat Donald Trump. I am so proud and thankful for what President Biden has done for our nation and party.”

U.S. Rep. Dan Webster, a Clermont Republican, released a statement: “Joe Biden’s decision to step aside is just the latest attempt from the radical left to stop President Trump. It will not work. The debate exposed what the American people knew, despite the media’s and Democrats attempts to cover it up for the last three years — President Biden cannot lead this country and his administration is in chaos. And Kamala Harris and every Democrat on the liberal left’s dream list are even more extreme than the current President. It’s an American nightmare. The Democrat’s nominee will inherit the record of the Biden/Harris administration, soaring inflation, a border crisis, and a country deeply divided. Americans are less safe, less respected on the world stage, and overall less prosperous. At the same time, President Trump is offering unity, safety, and an economy that will prosper. The American people deserve a leader who is transparent, accountable, and committed to enacting policies that truly benefit our nation. The American people want President Trump in the White House to Make America Great Once Again!”

U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson, a Miami Democrat, posted: “Kamala Harris has served as an extraordinary Vice President, has been part of this history making administration, and will make history as the first Black woman to hold the Presidency.”

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate and former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, a Miami Democrat, posted: “Thanks to President Joe Biden and his lifetime of service, America has never been stronger. Under his and Vice President Kamala Harris’ leadership, our nation has made unprecedented strides in expanding access to affordable health care, investing in our nation’s crumbling infrastructure, creating millions of jobs to boost our economy and empower the American worker, and confirming over 100 judicial nominees to the bench — including Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. President Biden has defined what it means to be a patriot and dedicated public servant. As he has done for his entire career, President Biden is putting the good of the American people and our democracy first. We must follow his example and stand united behind Vice President Kamala Harris and continue to fight for the freedom, democracy, and opportunities that brought so many of us to this incredible nation.”

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Stanley Campbell, a Coral Springs Democrat, said: “Today, President Biden made the difficult decision to withdraw from the presidential race, a choice that embodies deep sacrifice, patriotism and love of country. President Biden has exemplified dedication to public service, guided by a steadfast commitment to advancing the interests of the American people. His decisive leadership is matched by his ability to lead with compassion and foresight and he has now endorsed Kamala Harris to be his replacement. My support of President Biden’s decision reflects my deep-rooted respect for the democratic process and my knowledge of the qualifications of the Vice President. As Americans, we must move forward in strength and unity and my election is now more important than ever.”

Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried: “President Biden has been one of the greatest presidents in American history. As a leader, he has turned our economy around, guided us out of the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilt our crumbling infrastructure and restored America’s place on the world stage. Florida Democrats are grateful to him for his work and for all of the sacrifices he has made in service to our country. His legacy will never be forgotten. Now is the time for Democrats to step up and secure the future of that legacy — because the race may have changed, but our focus has not. This is the most consequential election of our lifetime, and Democrats must stand united to defeat Donald Trump and J.D. Vance in November.”

Republican Party of Florida Chair Evan Power: “Weekend at Biden’s is over! Joe Biden’s announcement confirms what we’ve been saying for years: Democrat leadership has failed Americans by propping up someone unfit to do the job. Every Democrat party leader, especially Vice President Harris, is complicit in this sham presidency and voters will hold them accountable this November.  Biden leaves our nation with long-term inflation and high interest rates, record high food and gasoline prices, open borders, indoctrination of children, and empowered the enemies of our nation. And to top it off, Kamala Harris failed with the only job given to her: border czar. Democrats across the country should be fuming. Their party failed them. Rather than allowing Americans to have their voices heard, they will be forced to carry whatever puppet they elect behind closed doors.  Meanwhile, Republicans are united behind President Trump. It doesn’t matter which empty suit they put forward—we will win. Thank you for your ‘service’ President Biden, we will take it from here.”

Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book released a statement: “As Democratic Leader of the Florida Senate and the highest ranking elected Democrat in the State of Florida, I am proud to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States of America. Vice President Harris has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to justice, equality, and progress throughout her public service career — from her tenure as Attorney General of California to her historic election as the first woman, Black, and South Asian Vice President, Kamala Harris has shown unwavering dedication to uplifting all Americans. Her leadership has been pivotal in advancing policies that benefit working families, and I have been proud to stand with her on numerous occasions in our fight for women’s reproductive freedom. Having sat next to the Vice President at reproductive rights round tables, spoken alongside her on what should have been the 50th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, and joined her at the White House for a convening on reproductive rights, I know that Kamala Harris is the leader we need to meet this pivotal moment in our nation’s history. Vice President Harris understands the challenges facing our country and has the experience and vision to lead us forward with compassion and competence. I urge Floridians and Americans across the country to join me and Joe Biden in supporting Vice President Kamala Harris for President in the upcoming election. Together, let’s continue to move forward toward a brighter future for all and elect our first woman President this November!”

State Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, a Spring Hill Republican, posted: “The Florida Dmeocrats CANCELLED their Presidential Primary and handed the delegates to Joe Biden, who is now trying to hand them to Kamala Harris. Rank and file Democrats in Florida never even had a say. The party of ‘choice’ didn’t even give their voters a choice. So much for ‘saving democracy’ huh?”

State Sen. Tina Polsky, a Boca Raton Democrat, posted: “Prosecutor v. Felon. We good.”

Florida House House Speaker Paul Renner, a Republican, posted: “Today’s Biden announcement reminds us that the Democrat Party is run by elites, who are obsessed with power and indifferent to the very democracy they lecture us about.  If Biden is too feeble to run for President, then how can he remain President? Biden’s public acknowledgement is a dangerous provocation to our enemies jeopardizing our national security for the next six months. That Democrat elites have struck a deal removing Biden from the ballot but leaves him in office proves they care more about power than our country.”

Florida House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell, a Democrat, posted: “Thank you Joe Biden for your incredible service to our country. Kamala Harris – Can’t wait to call you POTUS. Folks we have an election to win – let’s do this!”

State Rep. Tom Fabricio, a Miami Gardens Republican, posted: “If Biden isn’t fit to run for President, he’s definitely not fit to serve one more day in the Oval Office.”

State Rep. Tom Leek, Florida Senate candidate and Ormond Beach Republican, posted: “Leaving the field is President Biden’s decision after Democrat leaders saw the unity of the Republican Party behind President Trump at our Convention, and forced him to step aside. However, his inability to do the job as Commander-in-Chief has been apparent despite their attempts to hide it, and requires his resignation from office.”

State Rep. Jenna Persons, a Fort Myers Republican, posted: “Remember when Kamala Harris dropped out of the 2020 Presidential race, she was polling in SINGLE digits. Does the Democrat Party care about the will of the voters? Doesn’t seem so.”

State Rep. Michele Rayner, a St. Petersburg Democrat, posted: “I am profoundly grateful for President Joe Biden’s years of dedicated service. His decision today to step down and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the next presidential nominee is not only appropriate but essential. This is not about the other candidate for President. You can’t compare where you don’t compete. Vice President Harris’s extensive experience as District Attorney, Attorney General, U.S. Senator, and Vice President during pivotal moments in our generation underscores her deep qualifications to serve as President. She embodies the intersectionality of our nation and reflects our shared experiences. Vice President Harris is not only ready to serve our country as President, but she also possesses the most extensive experience to do so. As a Democratic delegate, State House Representative, a Link and Sister Greek, and a Black Queer woman in America, I am energized and fully committed to supporting Vice President Kamala Devi Harris.”

State Rep. Brad Yeager, a New Port Richey Republican, posted: “Biden must resign immediately! Democrats have been lying to Americans saying Biden is fine, until now that he cannot win. Democrats across the country will pay for this cover up and deep state lie! Freedom and justice will prevail!”

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, a Democrat, posted: “President Joe Biden has always put the country first as he did today. I’m grateful for his transformational leadership and for his belief and investment in Jacksonville. Vice President Kamala Harris has my full support as the Democratic nominee and our next President.”

Orange County Democratic Party Chair Samuel Vilchez Santiago released a statement: “We thank President Biden for his service, dedication, and the positive impact he has had on our nation. The Orange County Democratic Party remains committed to upholding the values and principles that have been at the core of President Biden’s mission: unity, progress, and justice for all. The choice we have before us remains the same, one between two clearly different visions for the future of our county.”