Nancy Pelosi backs Kamala Harris for White House run

US Vice President Kamala Harris won the support of one of America's longest-serving and best-known Democrats on Monday - Nancy Pelosi - in her bid to succeed President Joe Biden, who on Sunday ended his reelection bid.

Pelosi, who remains influential since stepping down as House speaker in 2022, played a leading role in persuading Biden, 81, to end his campaign amid concerns over his acuity and ability to beat Republican Donald Trump or to serve another four years.

"With love and gratitude, I salute President Biden for always believing in the possibilities of America and giving people the opportunity to reach their fulfillment," Pelosi, 84, said in a statement. "We must unify and charge forward to resoundingly defeat Donald Trump and enthusiastically elect Kamala Harris as the next President of the United States."

Virtually all of the prominent Democrats who had been seen as potential challengers to Harris have lined up behind her, including Governors Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Gavin Newsom of California and Andy Beshear of Kentucky.

Harris, 59, lauded Biden for his service to the country on Monday in her first public appearance since he abruptly abandoned his reelection bid and endorsed her as his successor.