Obama, top Democrats do NOT endorse Kamala Harris and leave door open for next 'outstanding nominee' as party promises more soon on 'path forward'

President Joe Biden may have endorsed his VP to replace him in November, but the nation's highest-ranking elected Democrats have not come out behind her yet. 

Biden sent shockwaves through Washington when he announced Sunday he would not be running for reelection in November. He quickly threw his weight behind Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place. 

But top Democrats, including former President Barack Obama, notably didn't mention Harris in their statements of support for the president, seemingly leaving the door open to another possible nominee.

'America is a better place today because President Joe Biden has led us with intellect, grace and dignity. We are forever grateful,' House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement that made no mention of Harris. 

Harris, meanwhile, confirmed she would seek the nomination in her own statement. 

'I am honored to have the President’s endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination.'

'America is a better place today because President Joe Biden has led us with intellect, grace and dignity. We are forever grateful,' House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said in a statement that made no mention of Vice President Kamala Harris

'Over the past year, I have traveled across the country, talking with Americans about the clear choice in this momentous election. And that is what I will continue to do in the days and weeks ahead. I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party—and unite our nation—to defeat Donald Trump.' 

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement: 'Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader but he's a truly amazing human being. His decision of course was not easy, but he once again put his country, his party, and our future first.'

'Joe, today shows you are a true patriot and great American.'

Bill and Hillary Clinton came out behind Harris in a statement after Biden did so. 

But President Barack Obama made no mention of her in a lengthy statement, saying that Democrats will be 'navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead.'

'But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges,' Obama said Sunday.

His sprawling statement praised Biden for being 'one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me.'

'Today, we’ve also been reminded — again — that he’s a patriot of the highest order,' he went on.

In a fawning tribute to her longtime friend Joe, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi also made no mention of Harris. 

'President Joe Biden is a patriotic American who has always put our country first. His legacy of vision, values and leadership make him one of the most consequential Presidents in American history.' 

It's unclear whether these top Democrats are trying to give Biden his moment after what was surely one of the most difficult decisions of his life, or they're having doubts about the viability of Harris as a candidate. 

Jaime Harrison, chair of the Democratic National Committee where a candidate will be formally nominated, did not mention Harris in his own statement. 

He promised to give more information soon on what the nominating process would look like. The Democratic National Convention is less than a month away and will begin on August 19. 

'Our delegates are prepared to take seriously their responsibility in swiftly delivering a candidate,' he said. 'In short order, the American people will hear from the Democratic Party on next steps and the path forward for the nomination process.' 

DNC officials DailyMail.com spoke to privately would not weigh in on who the nominee would or should be as not to get ahead of the internal conversations but said they would be focusing in the meantime on ensuring the resources to take on Trump.

Rep. Jim Clyburn, R-S.C., a powerful black Democrat who propelled Biden to victory for the nomination in 2020, said he would support Harris to replace the president.  

Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat running a tough reelection race in Wisconsin in November, did the same. 'Today I’m proud to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States.' 

Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., a top Biden ally, also came out behind Harris.  

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement: 'Joe Biden has not only been a great president and a great legislative leader but he's a truly amazing human being'

President Joe Biden may have endorsed his VP to replace him in November, but the nation's highest-ranking elected Democrats have not come out behind her yet

'Democrats must immediately unite so we can focus on winning in November,' Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the House Progressive Caucus co-chair, wrote on X. 'I look forward to casting my vote for Kamala Harris and doing everything I can to ensure she becomes our next president. 

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair, Rep. Nanette Barragan, came out behind Harris on Sunday.   

'I am with you [Biden] - I endorse [Harris] as our Democratic nominee & will work tirelessly to make sure she is elected our next President in November. Thank you Mr. President for your lifetime of service to this country & the American people.' 

The Congressional Black Caucus, led by Reps. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y., and Steven Horsford, D-Nevada, also came out behind Harris- as did the Asian and Pacific American Caucus.