Tennessee's Democratic Party delegates were already scheduled for a call Sunday afternoon when President Joe Biden announced he would withdraw from the election and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris.
On that call later in the day, the state's delegation for the 2024 Democratic National Convention voted to support Harris for the presidency. Several reports indicate that Tennessee's delegates are the first state representation to do so.
Tennessee Democratic Party chair Hendrell Remus said in a post on X (formerly Twitter): "It's time for us to unite and win this election – for nearly 4 years, VP Harris has been in the trenches with @JoeBiden fighting for us, Tennessee is with you!"
The Democratic National Convention, where delegates will now pick the Democratic nominee for the presidential election, will take place in Chicago from Aug. 19 through 22.
Several political leaders in Tennessee are delegates, including Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell and Metro Nashville School Board member Freda Player.
"My focus will always be on what’s best for Nashville," says O'Connell in a statement. "We’ve been working closely with federal partners since taking office, and the Biden administration has been a great friend to Nashville. I’m grateful for President Biden’s leadership. Now, in this critical election where democracy is on the ballot, I look forward to supporting Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee."
House Minority Leader Karen Camper (D-Memphis), Senate Minority Leader Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis), state Rep. Vincent Dixie (D-Nashville) and state Rep. Harold Love (D-Nashville) will also serve as delegates.
Leader Camper sent out a statement Sunday afternoon thanking President Biden and adding her support for Harris' nomination.
"Her commitment to equality, justice, and the well-being of all Americans reflects the values we hold dear," she said.
This article was first published by our sister publication, the Nashville Post.
