California Representative Mark Takano made waves on Saturday when he publicly urged President Joe Biden to drop out of the race against former President Donald Trump. Takano’s bold statement called for Vice President Kamala Harris to take the helm of the Democratic ticket. This call for change comes as Takano becomes the thirty-sixth Democrat on Capitol Hill to voice his concerns about Biden’s reelection bid. It appears that while some Democrats are voicing their concerns privately, Takano is among those who are taking a public stand.
Takano stated, “President Biden’s greatest accomplishment remains saving democracy in 2020. He can and must do so again in 2024 — by passing the torch to Vice President Harris as the Democratic Party Presidential nominee.” This sentiment reflects a growing belief within the party that the demands of a modern campaign may be better met by Vice President Harris. It seems that Takano, along with other Democratic lawmakers, sees Harris as the rightful heir to the top of the ticket. Furthermore, with a campaign war chest of at least $91 million, Harris could potentially be a strong candidate for the Democratic Party.
In a private meeting earlier in July, Takano and other Democratic committee ranking members expressed concerns about Biden’s reelection bid. The events of the past month, including a stumbling debate against Trump, have raised questions about Biden’s age and ability to win in November. This has led to deep divisions within the Democratic Party, with some lawmakers, donors, and strategists calling on Biden to step aside. Despite this pressure, Biden has remained defiant and committed to staying in the race.
While some Democrats are pushing for Biden to step aside, others are supporting his decision to continue his campaign. Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have reportedly remained “deferential” on Biden’s choice to keep running. They have assured the White House of their support and willingness to help however they can. As the Democratic rifts widen, Biden continues to isolate with Covid in Rehoboth Beach, Del., receiving antiviral treatment and aiming to return to the campaign trail as soon as he is Covid-free.
Despite the mounting pressure for Biden to drop out, his campaign has maintained that he will stay in the race. Campaign spokesperson Michael Tyler has stated that Biden is expected to resume campaigning “in earnest” next week. In the meantime, Vice President Harris has been shouldering the campaign’s message and rallying support from donors. As the debate within the Democratic Party intensifies, the question remains: should President Biden step aside and make way for new leadership? Only time will tell how this situation will unfold in the coming weeks leading up to the election.
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