Sen. Joe Manchin Urges Biden to Step Aside for New Leadership

Senator Joe Manchin has publicly called on President Joe Biden to end his reelection campaign, suggesting it is time for him to "pass the torch to a new generation." This statement reflects a growing concern among Democrats regarding Biden's viability in the upcoming November elections. Manchin noted that after the recent debate, he believed Biden needed time to assess his candidacy, but he has since heard from colleagues in challenging districts who are voicing their concerns. While Manchin expressed no personal doubts about Biden's mental acuity based on their interactions, he acknowledged that the president's performance on the campaign trail has raised concerns. Despite this, he believes Biden can complete his current term, emphasizing the significant toll a national campaign takes on any candidate. Manchin's comments come amid increasing pressure from over 35 lawmakers urging Biden to reconsider his candidacy. Biden has remained resolute in his intention to run, despite the mounting calls for him to step down. Congressman Ro Khanna stated that the decision ultimately lies with Biden, affirming trust in the president's judgment. Should Biden choose to withdraw, the Democratic Party faces uncertainty regarding his successor, with some suggesting Vice President Kamala Harris as the likely nominee, while others advocate for a more competitive selection process. Manchin highlighted the importance of a healthy competition within the party, indicating that an open primary could lead to a broader range of candidates, which he believes would benefit the Democratic Party moving forward.