How California Democratic Party leaders rallied hundreds of delegates to back Kamala Harris

Sunday morning, less than three hours after President Joe Biden stepped aside in his bid for reelection, the chair of the California Democratic Party sent a plea to hundreds of people representing the state at next month’s national convention.

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“Endorse Kamala Harris for President,” said the email from Rusty Hicks. It was just one part of a frantic effort from state Democratic Party leaders to quickly rally support behind Harris, according to interviews with more than 20 delegates.

Using phone calls and text messages, party officials and leaders pushed the representatives to back Harris. Some delegates were surprised with how quick and insistent the party was in its outreach, especially so soon after Biden’s announcement and endorsement.

But many said they did not need the extra push to line behind the vice president from California.

The stakes were clear: California will send the most delegates to the convention next month — and it is Harris’ native state. Any hesitation from the influential, and expectedly supportive, contingent would not bode well for her chances.

“We’re the biggest delegation to the national convention but we’re also the delegation that’s known Vice President Harris the longest,” said Andrés Ramos, chair of the Sacramento County Democratic Party.

“We’re familiar with her and have stood by her much longer than any other state.” The state party’s targeted ground effort stretched into Monday. If there were any dissenters, they were dissenting quietly, delegates told The Sacramento Bee.

“As chaotic as the party can be sometimes, you’d think somebody somewhere would have an issue, but it doesn’t seem like it so far,” said Michael Vargas, a Sacramento-area delegate. “Everyone looks like they’re falling in line.”

Click here to read the full article at the Sacramento Bee