Hollywood cheers Biden's exit, backs Harris for 2024

Hollywood figures have largely welcomed President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, marking a shift in sentiment from recent weeks. Celebrities, who had previously been restrained in their public comments, now express relief and support for Vice President Kamala Harris, who is set to become the Democratic nominee.

Just hours before Biden’s announcement, Aaron Sorkin, creator of "The West Wing," argued in a New York Times opinion piece that Democrats should consider nominating Republican Mitt Romney to prevent former President Donald Trump from returning to power. However, following Biden’s withdrawal, Sorkin reversed his stance and endorsed Harris, who has already begun her campaign.

“I take it all back. Harris for America!” Sorkin declared in a statement, shared by actor Joshua Malina on social media.

Robert De Niro, a prominent Biden supporter and vocal critic of Trump, praised Biden’s decision, calling it an act of "shrewd politics and selfless patriotism." De Niro emphasized the importance of clearing the path for another Democrat to run, underscoring the goal of defeating Trump.

Barbra Streisand expressed gratitude for Biden’s contribution to democracy, while comedian Jon Stewart, who had criticized Biden’s reluctance to step aside, simply labeled him a “legend.” Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns also lauded Biden’s legacy, comparing his legislative achievements to those of past presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Mark Hamill, who met Biden in the Oval Office earlier this year, praised his record and efforts to restore integrity to the presidency. Comedian Kathy Griffin, who faced backlash for her criticism of Trump, supported Biden’s exit and the need for a new direction.

Star Trek actor George Takei described Biden as a “decent, honorable man” and urged support for Harris to ensure Trump’s defeat. Political commentator Jon Favreau, who had previously criticized Biden’s campaign, commended the decision as a “courageous and selfless act.”

Cher, who had expressed doubts about the Democrats’ chances without Biden, called for innovative strategies to secure victory. Jamie Lee Curtis supported Biden’s decision and endorsed Harris, highlighting her advocacy for women’s rights and racial equality.

This wave of support for Biden’s decision contrasts with the limited public calls from Hollywood for his exit in recent weeks. George Clooney and Michael Douglas had earlier voiced concerns about Biden’s viability, with Clooney suggesting the need for a new nominee to energize the Democratic base and Douglas expressing worries about Biden’s performance and future prospects.

As Biden steps aside, Hollywood’s influential voices are rallying behind Harris, shaping the narrative for the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

[Source: The Guardian]