WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race four months before voters go to the polls. 

 

The president on Sunday afternoon released a statement confirming his withdrawal and throwing his support to Vice President Kamala Harris. 

 

He said he would address the nation later this week about his decision.

 

Massachusetts had gone strong for Biden in 2020 when he won the state's primary over local pols U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders and took two-thirds of the vote in the general election. 

 

But he has apparently bowed to pressure after the constant drumbeat in the press over the 81-year-old president's capabilities after a poor debate performance, and public questioning over his ability to win by congressional Democrats.

 

Polls this week found 2 in 3 Bay State voters wished for him to step aside. 

 

"President Biden's decision today not to seek re-election is the ultimate example of putting the country first — something Joe Biden has done over and over again in his unparalleled career. We are all deeply grateful to President Biden for his lifetime of service," said Gov. Maura Healey in a statement.