Top Fil-Am Democrats react to Biden dropping out of presidential race

National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) Chair Brendan Flores (in photo with Biden) calls on all Filipino Americans to remain engaged in the democratic process. CONTRIBUTED

NEW YORK CITY — Barely four months till the next presidential elections in November, President Joe Biden has officially withdrawn from his reelection bid. 

On July 21, citing health concerns and heeding advice from his fellow Democrats, Biden announced on X (formerly Twitter) that he has “decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”

This screenshot taken from President Joe Biden’s X account shows the letter that Biden wrote to announce that he was dropping out of the 2024 race for the White House on Sunday, July 21, 2024, and would no longer seek reelection. (X via AP)

While the news was both sudden and expected, many of Pres. Biden’s Filipino American Democratic allies expressed sadness but praised his decision to prioritize the country’s welfare.

“President Biden truly believes that saving democracy is a more urgent imperative than saving his candidacy,” said Jonathan Melegrito, executive secretary of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetRep) and a longtime advocate for wronged WWII veterans based in Washington, DC, told INQUIRER.net USA.

“Unlike former President Trump, who is only out for his own self-interest, President Biden values the country’s best interests more than his own. So much is at stake for our nation’s future. We need the leadership of a younger generation to energize the electorate, and the President’s endorsement of Vice President Harris is both historic and absolutely essential.”

Enzo Manzano, president of the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York, thanks President Biden for his decades of service and for continuing to “put his country first.”

“This year’s elections are pivotal to the future of this country and its values. The Democratic Party continues to show that we are a party of ideas, progress, and one that is grounded on reality,” he said. “There is too much at stake with Trump on the ballot and we will do all we can to defeat him once again.”

The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York held their “Summer Sosyal” get-together last July 14. Photo shows FADCNY members and President Enzo Manzano with State Senator Brian Kavanagh, State Senator John Liu, Assembly Member Harvey Epstein and Fil-Am Assembly Member Steven Raga. CONTRIBUTED

LA-based Democratic political fundraiser Rocio Nuyda couldn’t help but express her sadness over Biden’s decision to drop out of the race.

“As we speak, decisions are brewing. I have never seen democracy on the precipice of danger by a political upheaval, including an insurrection that patriots witnessed in disbelief,” Rocio said.

President Biden with Fil-Am Democratic leader Rocio Nuyda. CONTRIBUTED

“It is imperative to mention that the patriotic integrity of one man chose the high moral ground, not for self-interest but for the good of the country. My President is one heck of a decent man. Godspeed, Mr. President. Your outstanding service and achievements during your term will be long remembered in the annals of history for many generations to come.”

This sentiment was echoed by Fil-Am singer and registered Democrat Paz Herrero in New York, who calls herself a bleeding-heart liberal: “Joe Biden’s decision not to run shows how much he cares for this country and our democracy. I am hopeful Democrats will coalesce under VP Harris so we can unite to defeat Donald Trump.”

In Las Vegas, veteran community leader and former White House AAPI commissioner Rozita Lee was stunned by the news as she was coming out of a church service.

“I am saddened to hear this because I support him,” she said. “I know he had a most difficult time getting to this decision because of his passion for serving the country. He is serving his first term well. His dropping out of the race is indeed a historic moment.” 

According to Lee, what happens next will be determined by the party in the next few days. 

“We do know we must defeat the candidate, the former President who was twice impeached by Congress, was found guilty of 34 felonious accounts by juries, with still more egregious federal legal cases being considered. I turn to Heavenly Father for answers and that His will be done.”

President Joe Biden last year in New York as he unveiled $292 million grant for Hudson Tunnel Project, improving transit reliability for 200,000 daily passengers. Photo by Elton Lugay

Brendan Flores, chair of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), noted that his respect for Biden has grown, recognizing the profound and challenging decision the President made.

“Regardless of our individual political beliefs, we can all appreciate the immense dedication and service he has provided to our nation,” Flores said. “President Biden has faced numerous challenges with resilience and determination, working tirelessly on behalf of the American people. His efforts and commitment to our country deserve our gratitude and recognition. This decision exemplifies his unwavering dedication to the well-being of our nation.”

Flores is calling on all Filipino Americans to remain engaged in the democratic process. 

“Our community’s participation is crucial in shaping the future of our country. Let us come together, regardless of political affiliation, to exercise our right to vote. Voting is not only a privilege but a responsibility that ensures our voices are heard and our diverse perspectives are represented. I encourage everyone to stay informed, get involved, and most importantly, participate in the upcoming elections. By doing so, we honor our democracy and the legacy of leaders like President Biden who have devoted their lives to public service.”

Loida Nicolas Lewis, a key figure in the DNC’s most important super PACs, hailed President Biden for his courage and humility in dropping out of the race. 

“Now, he is going to be judged by history as one of the best Presidents of the United States: lowest unemployment since WWII, most bills passed into law since LBJ [Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th US President], reduced prescription medicine costs for diabetes and other chronic diseases, and stopped sending US troops to Afghanistan after 20 years of no-win war,” the Fil-Am community leader told INQUIRER.net USA.

Loida Nicolas Lewis, a key figure in the DNC’s most important super PACs, hailed President Biden for his courage and humility in dropping out of the race. Image: Edwin Josue/Facebook

“Now, the Democratic Convention next month should vote by majority who will replace Joe Biden. Kamala Harris should be the recipient of Joe Biden’s blessings. She must be voted upon after an open election at the convention.”

Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio thanked President Biden for his “unwavering service to our country.”

“His leadership has been instrumental in steering us through some of the most challenging times in our history, from the pandemic to restoring our democracy,” he said.

Amatorio said Biden’s decision to endorse Vice President Harris showcases his commitment to the nation above all else.

“Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for us to unite as Democrats and continue the work he started, ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future for all Americans,” he said.

Meanwhile, former President Barack Obama issued a statement hailing Biden and expressing love and gratitude to both Biden and the First Lady for “leading us so ably and courageously during these perilous times and for their commitment to the ideals of freedom and equality that this country was founded on.”

“Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded again that he’s a patriot of the highest order.

The 44th President stated that Biden’s decision to step aside, despite having every right to run for reelection, shows his profound love for America and sets a historic example of genuine public service. 

Vice President Kamala Harris, for her part, expressed her honor in receiving the President’s endorsement. She stated, “On behalf of the American people, I thank Joe Biden for his extraordinary leadership as President of the United States and for his decades of service to our country. My intention is to earn and win this nomination.”

As the Democratic Convention approaches, the party faces the challenge of selecting a new nominee who can unite the party and carry forward the policies and vision that President Biden championed. The upcoming months will be crucial for the Democratic Party as they prepare for the November elections, aiming to maintain their leadership and continue building on the progress made during Biden’s presidency.

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