SAN ANTONIO — After President Biden's announcement to drop out of the presidential race, many are expressing gratitude for his work during his presidency.
While leaders are taking the opportunity to recognize the work he has done, we asked local leaders, what's next?
We spoke with Bexar County Democratic Chairwoman Monica Alcantara who also praised Biden for his leadership, thanking him for his service. Alcantara says she stands 100% behind President Biden, and will be supporting Vice-President Kamala Harris.
Alcantara says she is a national delegate for Biden and says with the Democratic National Convention coming up next month in Chicago, they will be discussing the process of selecting a candidate to replace Biden.
"I know that we will be having a few phone calls before that time frame. So the first part of August, and I know a lot of that is going to go over, the process on what we are going to do and how we move forward," said Alcantara.
Congressman Joaquin Castro called today a historic one with Biden becoming the first president to decline his parties' nomination since Lyndon Johnson.
"Biden will be recorded in history as one of America's most consequential presidents. He has truly been a transformational leader," said Castro.
Castro says he is proud to support Harris and is hopeful she will be the nominee. He also says he's spoken with Democrats across the country and expects overwhelming support for Harris, including constituents here in San Antonio.
"I was just at the grocery store a little while ago, somebody came up to me and said hey, we need to get behind Kamala Harris now," said Castro.
In a tweet, Mayor Ron Nirenberg praised President Biden as a transformational leader in our nation's history, and a true friend to working families in San Antonio.
"He took the slings and arrows that come from stepping into the arena, and throughout it all reminded us that strength of character matters. I'll be forever proud to call him a partner and a friend," said Nirenburg.
In statements, Congressman Greg Casar and Henry Cuellar also both thanked President Biden for his leadership. Cuellar says he looks forward to supporting the next democratic nominee.
Sheriff Javier Salazar talked about the relationship he has with Biden and says he will unite behind the nominee.
"It's sad to see any career in public service end I'm proud of the fact that he gets to end it on his terms. I've already pledged my support to whomever is the nominee, and we're going to do our best to win this thing," said Sheriff Salazar.
