Biden Bows Out, Harris Takes Center Stage: A New Era for Democrats

President Joe Biden's decision to end his re-election bid invigorates the Democratic Party as Vice President Kamala Harris steps to the forefront. Biden received a hero's welcome at the Democratic National Convention, setting the stage for Harris to challenge Republican Donald Trump. The week-long event seeks to solidify party unity and Harris's candidacy.

President Joe Biden delivered his valedictory address to Democrats Monday night, marking the end of his re-election bid and infusing new energy into his party with Vice President Kamala Harris poised to take the lead ticket.

Biden, 81, who has spent 52 years in politics, received a hero's welcome for stepping aside for Harris. This move comes weeks after party members pressured him to drop out of the race. The Democratic National Convention, which started Monday in Chicago, holds high stakes, occurring just one month after the unprecedented switch from Biden to Harris.

Harris, making an unannounced appearance, thanked Biden for his leadership. The convention aims to elevate Harris for a showdown with Republican Donald Trump, considered by Democrats as an existential threat. The event also focuses on Biden and Harris's popular accomplishments, including leading the country out of the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting clean energy.

(With inputs from agencies.)