With President Joe Biden stepping down from the 2024 presidential race, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has assured that the selection of a new nominee will follow an “orderly process.” Despite Biden’s endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris, the official nominee will be chosen at the Democratic National Convention next month.

DNC Chair Jaime Harrison emphasized the party’s commitment to a smooth transition. “Our delegates are prepared to take seriously their responsibility in swiftly delivering a candidate to the American people. Democrats are prepared and united in our resolve to win in November,” Harrison stated.

Biden’s decision to exit the race has shifted the responsibility to his 3,896 pledged delegates, who will vote for a new nominee. Although Harris has Biden’s endorsement and backing from prominent Democrats, her nomination is not guaranteed. A virtual roll call prior to the convention will determine who the delegates believe should be the nominee.

Harris has received endorsements from influential Democrats, but also faces significant opposition within the party. Criticisms focus on her polling performance against potential Republican candidate Donald Trump. Notably, statements from figures like Hakeem Jeffries and Barack Obama praised Biden’s decision but did not explicitly support Harris as the nominee.

If no candidate secures a majority of delegates in the initial round of voting, over 700 superdelegates—comprising senior party leaders and elected officials—will participate in subsequent rounds until a nominee is chosen. This process ensures that the Democratic Party selects a candidate capable of uniting the party and competing in the general election.