Democrats back Harris, with some exceptions

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Democrats appear to be uniting behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

“I’m ready for her to lead,” said Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), who also chairs the Congressional Black Caucus.

He says it’s time to focus on winning in November.

“She is the best prepared and the most qualified to win this nomination and defeat Donald Trump,” he said.

Dozens of influential Democrats, from the Clintons to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, have all thrown their support behind the vice president.

But remarkably, some Democratic leaders in Congress, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have refrained from endorsing Harris.

“We’re going to have an open, orderly democratic process,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), “and then we’re going to come together with excitement and exuberance, even joy.”

He proposes that the party hold an open primary so delegates can have their say before formally nominating a candidate ahead of the Democratic National Convention next month.

In a statement, Harris vowed to earn support and win. So far, no other Democrats are challenging Harris for the nomination, though independent West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin appears to be flirting with the idea.

Legislative affairs expert Casey Burgat says Harris has a big advantage with the president behind her.

“That’s about the best recommendation you can get,” he claimed.