In recent weeks, a number of Democratic senators have voiced their concerns over President Joe Biden’s re-election bid, with some calling for him to withdraw from the race. Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who left the Democratic Party earlier this year but continues to caucus with Democrats, has been a notable advocate for Biden to step aside. Manchin cited Biden’s underwhelming performance in a June debate and ongoing concerns about his health as reasons for his call. He suggested that Biden’s withdrawal could allow him to address significant issues and leave a positive legacy.
Manchin’s comments align with a broader sentiment among several Democratic senators, including Peter Welch of Vermont, Jon Tester of Montana, Martin Heinrich of New Mexico, and Sherrod Brown of Ohio. These senators have expressed reservations about Biden’s ability to lead the party effectively, reflecting fears about the impact of his re-election campaign on vulnerable congressional and state-level races.
In response, the Biden campaign has firmly rejected calls for the president to withdraw. Campaign spokesperson Mia Ehrenberg emphasized that the majority of Democrats and the diverse base of the party continue to support Biden’s candidacy. The campaign argues that internal disagreements are a normal part of the democratic process and assures that the party will unite to defeat Republican challengers in the upcoming election.
The debate over Biden’s candidacy also extends to public and donor reactions, with some expressing a desire for new leadership within the Democratic Party. Despite these voices, the Biden campaign maintains that the president remains committed to his re-election bid and is focused on achieving his policy goals.
Call for Biden to Withdraw:
Sen. Joe Manchin’s Perspective:
Sen. Joe Manchin argues that President Biden should step aside for the good of the country, citing Biden’s poor debate performance and the need for a fresh leader. Manchin believes that Biden’s departure would allow him to address key issues and leave a positive legacy. He has suggested potential replacements and expressed concerns about Biden’s health and the impact of his re-election bid on Democratic prospects
Other Democratic Senators’ Perspective:
Several other Democratic senators, including Peter Welch, Jon Tester, Martin Heinrich, and Sherrod Brown, have also called for Biden to exit the race, reflecting dissatisfaction with his performance and concerns about the party’s future
Biden’s Stance and Support:
Biden Campaign’s Response:
The Biden campaign has maintained that the president is committed to running for re-election and has no intention of stepping down. They emphasize the president’s achievements and the party’s unity in facing the challenge from Republicans. The campaign argues that internal disagreements are part of a healthy democratic process and assures that the party will come together to support Biden
Public and Donor Reactions:
Donor and Public Sentiment:
Some donors and public figures have expressed concerns about Biden’s candidacy and suggested the need for a new direction for the party. This reflects broader discontent within certain segments of the Democratic Party about Biden’s leadership and campaign strategy.
National Broadcasting Company:
Sen. Joe Manchin joins calls for Biden to drop out of the 2024 race
Fox Broadcasting Company:
Sen. Joe Manchin calls on Biden to step aside, pass torch to ‘a new generation’