Biden says he bowed out to unite nation, as Trump attacks Harris

Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks, as he holds a campaign rally for the first time with his running mate, Republican vice presidential nominee U.S. Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S. July 20, 2024. REUTERS/Tom Brenner/File photo

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Joe Biden on Wednesday said dropping out of the race for the presidency and endorsing his vice president, Kamala Harris, as the Democratic candidate was the best way to unite the country, despite his ambition to win a second term.

Biden's announcement to not seek re-election on Sunday followed a disastrous June debate with Trump that exacerbated questions about his ability to win, or to serve another four years if he succeeded.