On Friday, six additional House Democrats joined the growing chorus urging President Biden to step aside from the 2024 race, amplifying concerns within the party about his ability to defeat former President Trump in November.
Reps. Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Marc Veasey (D-Texas), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.), and Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) released a joint statement highlighting their respect for Biden but expressing worries about his age and fitness for office.
They pointed to his underwhelming debate performance last month as a catalyst for these concerns. “Mr. President, while we deeply admire your decades of service and leadership, it’s time for you to pass the torch to a new generation of Democratic leaders,” the statement read.
“Public concerns about your age and ability are jeopardizing what should be a strong campaign, particularly following last month’s debate.”
The lawmakers suggested that stepping aside would be a responsible and patriotic move, allowing Biden to lead the party from the White House while enabling a new candidate to take on Trump.
On the same day, two more Democrats added their voices to the calls for Biden to withdraw. Rep. Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) argued that Democrats need a new leader who can effectively counter Trump and advocate for America’s future.
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) wrote a letter to Biden, reflecting on her experience with the January 6 investigation and suggesting that his candidacy is on a losing trajectory.
Lofgren’s letter, dated Thursday but made public on Friday, urged Biden to step aside to improve the chances of winning the White House and preserving crucial House and Senate seats.
The mounting pressure on Biden is vital, with Veasey breaking ranks as the first member of the Congressional Black Caucus to call for his withdrawal.
The other signatories, Huffman, García, and Pocan, are part of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, which has previously supported Biden strongly. García is also a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, which backed Biden’s reelection bid earlier Friday.
Lofgren’s stance adds weight, given her close ties with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has reportedly been working behind the scenes to encourage Biden to reconsider his candidacy.
The debate over Biden’s viability intensified following a lackluster debate performance where he appeared to struggle with his words and focus.
Despite these growing concerns, Biden and his campaign have remained resolute that he will not withdraw. Campaign Chair Jen O’Malley Dillon reaffirmed on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” that “absolutely, the president’s in this race.”
Sources suggest that Biden might soon address his future, though he is currently recovering from COVID-19 in Delaware. Huffman, Veasey, García, and Pocan believe that Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Biden has supported and prepared for leadership, would be a strong successor.
They argue that passing the torch would rejuvenate the campaign and galvanize Democratic enthusiasm ahead of the convention next month.