He suspended his campaign and needs to step down.
Following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he will not run for re-election, some Republicans have called for his immediate resignation from the presidency. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., argued that if Biden is deemed unfit to seek re-election, he should also step down from his current role. New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, the fourth-ranking House Republican, similarly insisted that Biden’s inability to run for a second term indicates he is unfit to continue as President.
Several other Republicans echoed this sentiment. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., expressed concern for national security and suggested that Biden’s inability to campaign effectively raises doubts about his capability to fulfill his presidential duties. Daines and others highlighted that the presidency requires significant responsibility and trust, which they feel Biden no longer commands.
Despite Biden’s decision to focus on his presidential duties for the remainder of his term, Democratic reactions have been less severe. While some Democrats have questioned his ability to campaign effectively, particularly following poor debate performances, none have called for his resignation from office. Their concerns are more about his communication skills and campaign viability rather than his capacity to govern.
Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., proposed invoking the 25th Amendment to remove Biden, while far-right Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., and others questioned Biden’s effectiveness as Commander in Chief. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., critiqued the Democratic Party’s handling of Biden’s candidacy but did not support calls for his resignation.
In response, some Trump allies claimed that Trump’s campaign is not just against Biden but against the broader Democratic agenda. They framed the situation as a battle against a flawed system rather than a specific candidate. This perspective reflects the ongoing tension and polarization within the political landscape as the 2024 election approaches.
