Following a poor debate performance against former President Donald Trump, some Democrats are urging US President Joe Biden to step aside for the 2024 election. During Thursday’s debate, Biden’s struggle led a Democratic lawmaker to liken him to a past-prime boxer needing his corner to throw in the towel, suggesting Biden should leave the race.
Replacing Biden won’t be simple; if he doesn’t choose to step down, a revolt among Democratic National Convention delegates, who largely pledged to nominate him, would be required. Despite this, some Democrats are considering an open convention to nominate a new candidate.
“There is a sense of shock at how he came out at the beginning of this debate. How his voice sounded. He seemed a little disoriented,” said David Axelrod, a former top adviser to President Obama, on CNN. Axelrod also noted, “Only he can decide if he’s going to continue.”
Even those advocating for a new candidate are uncertain about moving Biden aside and are unsure who could secure the party’s nomination or beat Trump in November. Pre-debate polls indicated a close race between Biden and Trump.
Axelrod added that Biden likely wouldn’t leave the race, emphasizing Biden’s pride and self-belief.
