(North County Beat) – Representatives Scott Peters of San Diego and Mike Levin of San Juan Capistrano have joined a chorus of voices calling for President Joe Biden to withdraw from the upcoming presidential race.
Representative Levin’s statement came shortly after he directly urged President Biden to step aside during a call with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus on Friday, July 12. He becomes the 19th Democratic member of Congress to formally advocate for Biden’s withdrawal. Meanwhile, Representative Peters issued his own call for Biden to step down immediately following a critical press briefing at the NATO Conference in Washington, D.C., where concerns over the president’s debate performance and overall campaign viability were highlighted.
The debate in question, held on June 27, raised doubts about Biden’s energy and focus, prompting Levin to express his apprehensions. “Like many, I was concerned about President Biden’s performance,” Levin stated in his release. “I’ve conveyed my concerns to House Democratic leadership and colleagues, urging a prompt decision on his candidacy.”
Both representatives acknowledged Biden’s leadership and accomplishments while stressing the urgency of a strategic change for the Democratic Party’s electoral prospects. “President Biden has been an exceptional leader, not only for our nation but for the world,” Levin remarked, acknowledging Biden’s extensive public service and their collaborative efforts. Peters similarly praised Biden’s past achievements but emphasized the necessity of a different strategy moving forward.
“While President Biden has steered our nation admirably, it’s clear his current trajectory will not secure reelection,” Peters asserted. “We must find a candidate who can effectively challenge Donald Trump and unify our party to prevail in key swing states.”
In response to mounting calls for his withdrawal, Biden has reiterated his commitment to remaining in the race, underscoring his determination despite internal party pressures. The unfolding situation underscores divisions within the Democratic Party regarding the path forward towards the 2024 elections.
