Democratic lawmakers convened urgently on Sunday afternoon to address mounting concerns about President Joe Biden’s candidacy for the 2024 elections and its impact on their own political prospects come November.
During the crisis call, multiple reports indicated that at least five Democratic lawmakers urged Biden, aged 81, to step down. They favored Vice President Kamala Harris, aged 59, as the alternative nominee. Among those advocating for Biden’s withdrawal were Judiciary Ranking Member Jerry Nadler and House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Mark Takano.
Representatives Don Beyer, Adam Smith, and Joseph Morelle, who chairs the House Administration Committee, also voiced their support for ending Biden’s White House bid.
Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries orchestrated the call as lawmakers prepare to reconvene in Washington, D.C. on Monday following the July 4 holiday break.
“The situation is poised to escalate on Monday when Congress resumes,” remarked a House Democrat in recent reports. “There’s a lot of anxiety about individual election campaigns, but also genuine concern for the state of the nation and our democratic values.”
Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) is organizing Senate Democrats to discuss Biden’s future, aiming for a meeting Monday evening to address the unfolding situation.
Meanwhile, Republican House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer has publicly called for White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor to testify on President Biden’s mental state and international business dealings.
