Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries Back Kamala Harris for Presidential Bid

In a significant show of support for Vice President Kamala Harris, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries publicly endorsed her candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination during a news conference in Washington on Tuesday. Schumer emphasized Harris's desire to secure the nomination through grassroots efforts, stating, “Now that the process has played out from the grassroots, bottom up, we are here today to throw our support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.” Jeffries echoed this sentiment, highlighting the excitement her campaign has generated among Democrats and the broader public. The endorsement from Schumer and Jeffries marks a pivotal moment for Harris, particularly following President Joe Biden's recent announcement to end his reelection bid. Their backing reflects a rapid consolidation of support for Harris, who has garnered endorsements from over 40 Democratic senators and more than 100 House members since Sunday. This momentum is further bolstered by endorsements from influential figures, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who expressed “immense pride and limitless optimism” for Harris's campaign. Initially, Schumer and Jeffries had refrained from endorsing Harris, indicating a desire to meet with her to discuss unifying the Democratic Party. However, as Harris's support grew, many of her potential challengers, including Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, shifted their endorsements to her, solidifying her path to the nomination. A wave of endorsements from state delegations further propelled her candidacy, positioning her as a frontrunner for the Democratic nomination.