Hawaii’s Democratic National Convention delegates previously pledged to President Joe Biden officially re-pledged their support to Vice President Kamala Harris at a delegation meeting on Wednesday.

What You Need To Know

  • In the wake of Biden’s decision to drop his re-election bid, Democrats nationwide have quickly rallied around Harris as their preferred nominee to take on former President Donald Trump in November
  • Local party officials said “productive” dialogue continues with uncommitted delegates, who have expressed their desire for peace in the Middle East and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza
  • While Democrats have until the Democratic National Convention to decide on a nominee, the Associated Press confirmed on Monday that the Democratic Party intends to hold a virtual roll call during which delegates would select a presidential candidate before the convention begins on Aug. 19
  • Harris needs the support of at least 1,976 delegates to secure the nomination. An AP survey found that 2,668 delegates intend to back Harris, with only 54 respondents undecided

“This decision shows the fresh energy coursing through our party,” stated Derek Turbin, chair of the Democratic Party of Hawaii. “The unanimous support among Biden delegates for Vice President Harris reflects our shared commitment to continuing the progress achieved under the Biden-Harris administration, and our excitement to elect Kamala Harris as president.”

In the wake of Biden’s decision to drop his re-election bid, Democrats nationwide have quickly rallied around Harris as their preferred nominee to take on former President Donald Trump in November.

“We are grateful for President Biden’s commitment to our country and numerous accomplishments as president,” Turbin said. “Yet we stand at a crucial juncture, and it is essential that we unite behind a leader who embodies our ideals and will ceaselessly advocate for democracy, women’s reproductive rights, unions and affordable healthcare,” Turbin continued. “Vice President Harris has shown exceptional leadership and dedication to the American people, and we are confident that she will be elected president.”

Party officials said “productive” dialogue continues with uncommitted delegates, who have expressed their desire for peace in the Middle East and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

“Our diversity in perspective makes us a stronger party, and we are committed to working together for peace and winning the white house in 2024,” Turbin said.

While Democrats have until the Democratic National Convention to decide on a nominee, the Associated Press confirmed on Monday that the Democratic Party intends to hold a virtual roll call during which delegates would select a presidential candidate before the convention begins on Aug. 19.

Harris needs the support of at least 1,976 delegates to secure the nomination. An AP survey found that 2,668 delegates intend to back Harris, with only 54 respondents undecided.

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.