The last eight days of the US presidential campaign have proved to be a rollercoaster of unprecedented proportions. President Joe Biden’s unexpected decision to drop out of the 2024 race on Sunday capped off a week that began with an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, leaving Americans in a state of disbelief. Here is a detailed breakdown of the events that unfolded:
Saturday: Trump Assassination Bid
The week began with a shocking incident during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Republican candidate Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt when a 20-year-old shooter opened fire from a nearby rooftop. The images of a bloodied Trump defiantly shaking his fist as Secret Service agents rushed him from the stage quickly became iconic, rallying his supporters and igniting a wave of fervent support.
Monday: Republican National Convention Begins
Despite the assassination attempt, Trump appeared before a roaring crowd at the Republican National Convention, his ear still covered by a white bandage. In a dramatic moment, he named Ohio Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate. The convention saw an outpouring of support for Trump, setting the stage for a contentious election.
Wednesday: Pressure on Biden Increases
As Trump’s campaign gained momentum, President Joe Biden faced increasing pressure from within his own party. His support continued to dwindle following a disastrous June 27 debate with Trump. Concerns about Biden’s age and ability to serve another term were amplified when he was diagnosed with Covid-19, forcing him to step off the campaign trail. Top Democratic lawmakers, including Adam Schiff, publicly urged Biden to consider stepping aside, while former President Barack Obama reportedly questioned the viability of Biden’s candidacy.
Friday: ‘Stakes are High’
Despite mounting pressure, Biden reiterated his commitment to the race, insisting that “the stakes are high” and that he would continue to fight for his re-election. However, the chorus of voices calling for his withdrawal grew louder, with 25 lawmakers joining the call for Biden to step down.
Saturday: ‘Bullet for Democracy’
In his first rally since the assassination attempt, Trump addressed a captivated audience in Michigan, declaring, “I took a bullet for democracy.” He mocked the Democratic leadership crisis, highlighting their lack of a clear candidate.
Sunday: Biden’s Big Decision
The week culminated in a stunning turn of events on Sunday. Key Senator Joe Manchin joined the growing list of Democrats urging Biden to step aside. Two polls released that day showed grim news for Biden, with one indicating sharply dropping support in Michigan and the other showing Trump at his highest favorability ratings in years.
At 1:46 pm Washington time, Biden made a surprise announcement on social media, declaring he was ending his candidacy “in the best interest of my party and the country.” He endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic nominee, with prominent Democrats like Bill and Hillary Clinton echoing their support.
In response, Trump took to social media, stating that Biden was “not fit to run” and should resign as president immediately. Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, echoed this sentiment, calling for Biden’s immediate resignation.
The Path Forward
The Democratic Party chairman announced that there would be a “transparent and orderly” process to select a new candidate to run in Biden’s place. As the dust settles, the nation braces for the next chapter in this extraordinary political saga, with both parties gearing up for what promises to be a fiercely contested election.
