President Joe Biden has announced his decision to withdraw from the November presidential election, leaving uncertainty about the Democratic ticket and the nomination process.
Although President Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, it is unknown if she will face any challengers for the Democratic nomination.
This move by President Biden is unprecedented, and the process for selecting a new nominee is now in motion.
RELATED STORY | President Biden ends reelection bid, endorses Harris for the 2024 presidential race
Here is an overview of the nomination process:
How the nomination process works
President Biden had little opposition in the primaries this year, securing the majority of delegates needed for the nomination.
Now, the delegates must decide whether to support Harris or another potential candidate.
Prior to 1972, delegates were not chosen through primaries, but the process changed after a tumultuous 1968 convention.
RELATED STORY | Reactions pour in after President Biden ends his 2024 reelection campaign
President Biden had the option to release his delegates before dropping out, but no official letter was sent.
Now that the delegates are released, questions remain about when they will vote for a new nominee.
RELATED STORY | Trump reacts to Biden dropping out of presidential race
If a nominee does not secure the majority of delegates in the first round of voting, superdelegates may join the process to determine the nominee.
Democratic leaders are working to ensure a transparent and orderly process for selecting a candidate who can defeat Donald Trump.
What happens to campaign dollars
The fate of campaign resources, including staff and funds, will depend on the chosen nominee.
No clear answer exists on how much of the campaign apparatus can be transferred to Harris or another candidate.
If Harris becomes the nominee, who becomes her running mate?
Prominent Democrats have offered support for Harris as the nominee, but the choice of a running mate remains uncertain.
What happens to Biden?
President Biden intends to fulfill his term but will not seek reelection in 2024.
Some lawmakers have suggested invoking the 25th Amendment if President Biden is deemed unfit to continue his term.
“If Joe Biden is unfit to run for re-election, he is unfit to carry out his term. 25th Amendment,” wrote Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin.
