Vice President Kamala Harris has secured enough delegates to become the Democratic Party's presidential nominee, as announced by the party's chair. The virtual roll call to formally nominate Harris began on Thursday, with Harris expressing her gratitude for being the presumptive nominee during a call with supporters.
This development comes shortly after President Biden endorsed Harris to succeed him at the top of the ticket, following his decision to end his re-election campaign. The Democratic National Committee is conducting electronic voting for their party's 2024 standard-bearer, with the process set to conclude on Monday.
Unlike the Republicans, who held an in-person roll call during their convention, the DNC is utilizing a virtual format due to the ongoing pandemic. Harris is the sole candidate who qualified by the deadline to have her name placed on the roll call, ensuring a smooth nomination process.
Biden's decision to back Harris quickly garnered support from Democratic leaders, leading to her securing the majority of convention delegates' verbal endorsements within a short timeframe. The DNC's virtual roll call is aimed at meeting the ballot access deadline in Ohio and ensuring Harris's presence on the ballot in all states for the November election.
While the official nomination vote is being conducted remotely, a ceremonial roll call will take place at the convention in Chicago. Speculation is rife about Harris's choice for a running mate, with plans for a campaign swing through key battleground states alongside the soon-to-be-named candidate.
The running mate announcement is anticipated to coincide with Harris's formal nomination, following the conclusion of the virtual roll call. DNC rules will then allow for the nomination of Harris's running mate as the party's vice presidential candidate.
