Joe Biden Makes Stunning Decision to Pull Out of 2024 Race

Decision Leaves Kamala Harris in Powerful Position

Coons: Biden's Decision "Respected But Shocking"

WASHINGTON - President Joe Biden announced Sunday that he will step aside as the Democratic presidential nominee, plunging the Democratic Party into an unexpected leadership crisis just months before the 2024 election.

Biden's decision, which he said was made after "deep reflection and consultation with my family," leaves Vice President Kamala Harris as the presumptive nominee. While Harris is a popular figure within the Democratic Party, it is unclear whether she will be able to secure the nomination or win the general election.

In a statement released by the White House, Biden said that he had "come to the conclusion that it is time for a new generation of leadership to take the reins of our party and our country." He praised Harris as a "talented and experienced leader" who is "ready to step into this role."

Harris has not yet commented on Biden's decision, but she is expected to make a statement later today. Other potential Democratic candidates, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), have yet to announce their plans.

Biden's decision has sent shockwaves through the political world. Many had expected him to seek a second term, and his withdrawal from the race has left the Democratic Party scrambling to find a replacement.

Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), one of Biden's longtime confidants and the co-chair of the Biden-Harris campaign, told CBS News that he was "deeply saddened" by Biden's decision. However, he said that he respected Biden's decision and believes that Harris is the "best person" to lead the party.

"I think it's a respected but shocking decision," Coons said. "I think there's no question that President Biden had more support within the party and the country than any other Democratic candidate. But I also think that he's a man who's always put the country first, and I think he believes that this is the right thing to do."

Biden's withdrawal from the race has created a wide-open field of potential candidates. Harris is the current frontrunner, but she is likely to face a challenge from other ambitious Democrats. The primary race is sure to be competitive, and it is unclear who will emerge as the party's nominee.