Kamala Harris earns Nancy Pelosi's support as presidential endorsements stack up

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., endorsed Kamala Harris for president on Monday as she continues to collect support from Democratic lawmakers.

Pelosi appeared to play a key role in Biden’s eventual exit from the race. The former speaker served as a sounding board for Democrats concerned about Biden’s age and viability as a candidate following the first presidential debate. Pelosi’s comments on Biden in recent weeks were hardly enthusiastic endorsements of the president and seemed to give the green light to Democrats to publicly come out against the president.

“Today, it is with immense pride and limitless optimism for our country’s future that I endorse Vice President Kamala Harris,” Pelosi said in a statement the day after Biden dropped out of the race. “My enthusiastic support for Kamala Harris for president is official, personal and political.”

More: Harris pays tribute to Biden in first public remarks since launching campaign: Live updates

President Joe Biden posted a letter on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday explaining he was dropping his reelection bid for the White House because he believed it was in the best interest of his party and the country. In a separate social media post, Biden endorsed Harris and said choosing her as his running mate in 2020 was “the best decision I’ve ever made.”

Harris paid tribute to Biden during her first public appearance since launching her 2024 presidential campaign. She spoke during an NCAA event at the White House on Monday.

“Joe Biden’s legacy of accomplishment over the past three years is unmatched in modern history,” Harris said. “In one term, he has already surpassed the legacy of most presidents who have served two terms in office.”

Pelosi praised Biden in her statement endorsing Harris, saying America was “truly blessed” by the president’s wisdom and leadership and calling him one of the nation’s “most consequential presidents.” She added he has been on the right side of history and the future.

“With love and gratitude, I salute President Biden for always believing in the possibilities of America and giving people the opportunity to reach their fulfillment,” Pelosi said.

Both hailing from San Francisco, the former speaker acknowledged her personal relationship with Harris and touted the former California senator’s record. In her endorsement, Pelosi emphasized Harris’ advocacy for abortion access, an issue known to mobilize voters.

“Personally, I have known Kamala Harris for decades as rooted in strong values, faith and a commitment to public service,” Pelosi said. “Politically, make no mistake: Kamala Harris as a woman in politics is brilliantly astute – and I have full confidence that she will lead us to victory in November.”

Rachel Barber is a 2024 election fellow at USA TODAY, focusing on politics and education. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, at @rachelbarber_

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nancy Pelosi endorses Kamala Harris for president