Heiress Abigail Disney has announced her decision to resume donations to the Democratic Party now that President Joe Biden has officially withdrawn from the 2024 presidential race. This follows her previous stance, where she indicated she would halt contributions until a new candidate replaced Biden at the top of the ticket.
In an email to CNBC, Disney confirmed her return to supporting the party, stating her enthusiasm for Vice President Kamala Harris, who Biden has now endorsed as his successor. Earlier in the month, Disney publicly expressed her intention to withhold donations unless a change was made in the presidential nomination, emphasizing her belief in Harris’s capability to lead the Democrats to victory.
Disney highlighted the challenges faced by female candidates, particularly regarding the perceptions of Harris compared to those of Biden, suggesting that biases related to race and gender play a role in the support given to different candidates. She called for party unity, arguing that with collective support, the Democrats could secure a substantial victory in the upcoming elections.
Disney is not alone in her sentiments; other prominent Democratic donors, including George Soros and his son, Alex Soros, have also voiced their support for Harris following Biden’s exit. This shift in support reflects a growing concern among party elites about the current leadership and the need for effective change heading into the election.
This development represents a significant shift in the Democratic Party’s dynamics as they prepare for the 2024 elections. While the party navigates its internal challenges, the support for Harris from high-profile donors could signal a new direction, ultimately fostering a more unified front.
Overall, this could lead to an invigorated campaign for the Democrats with Harris at the helm, igniting hope for a renewed focus on issues that resonate with voters.