Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Mich, has become the 11th elected Democratic lawmaker to call on President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race. Scholten released a statement on social media, stating that while Biden has served his country well, he must pass the torch to a new candidate. This move comes in the wake of Biden's widely criticized debate performance against former President Trump.
In her statement, Scholten emphasized the need for a strong candidate at the top of the ticket, not only to secure a victory but also to effectively govern. She stressed the importance of having a leader who will champion civil and voting rights and rally the free world against the growing threat of authoritarianism. Scholten acknowledged Biden's past leadership but underscored that the focus should now be on the future and the necessity of passing the torch to a new generation.
The National Republican Congressional Committee swiftly responded to Scholten's statement, accusing her of evading the question of Biden's current fitness to serve as president. The NRCC argued that Scholten's remarks were a strategic move aimed at retaining her seat in an election year. The committee's spokesman, Mike Marinella, called on Scholten to address whether she believes Biden is capable of fulfilling his presidential duties.
The debate over Biden's candidacy for the 2024 race continues to divide lawmakers within the Democratic Party, with Scholten adding her voice to those calling for a change in leadership. As the political landscape evolves, the question of Biden's future in the upcoming election remains a topic of intense debate and speculation.