Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill., made headlines on Friday by joining a growing number of Congressional Democrats calling on President Biden to step aside from the presidential race. Casten, representing southwest Chicago since 2019, penned an op-ed for the Chicago Tribune expressing his belief that it was time for Biden to pass the torch to a new generation.
In his op-ed, Casten emphasized the importance of Biden exiting the race with dignity and decency, suggesting that doing so would solidify his legacy as the President who saved democracy in 2020 and entrusted it to capable hands for 2024.
Casten's call for Biden to step down follows a similar sentiment expressed by Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., who also urged the President not to seek re-election. Tester's statement, released on Thursday, echoed concerns about Biden's candidacy for another term.
Despite the mounting pressure from within his own party, Biden and his campaign have remained steadfast in their decision to continue in the race. The President has rejected calls to drop out and has reaffirmed his commitment to seeking re-election.
As the 23rd Congressional Democrat to advocate for Biden's withdrawal from the race, Casten's stance adds to the ongoing debate within the Democratic Party regarding the future of the presidential candidacy. With the 2024 election on the horizon, the party faces internal discussions about leadership and the direction they wish to take moving forward.
