Former President Donald Trump discussed his potential vice-presidential picks, sharing praise and reservations. He hinted that an announcement could come soon, possibly during the upcoming convention.
As reported by the New York Post, Donald Trump commented on potential running mates, praising Sen. JD Vance's beard and criticizing North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum's strict abortion ban.
In an interview on Wednesday with Fox News Radio host Brian Kilmeade, Trump delved into various prospects for the role of running mate. He particularly highlighted Sen. JD Vance for his distinguished beard, which Trump likened to a young Abraham Lincoln.
"No. I’ve never heard that one," Trump remarked on rumors that he dislikes facial hair before complimenting Vance’s new look. “He’s like a young Abraham Lincoln,” Trump added, indicating his favorable view of Vance.
Trump mentioned that he would announce his vice-presidential choice “over the next week or so,” with a preference for making the pivotal revelation during the upcoming Republican convention. This anticipation has stirred excitement as several prominent names have emerged in speculative discussions.
When Kilmeade brought up potential candidates, including Gov. Doug Burgum, Sen. Marco Rubio, and Sen. Tim Scott, Trump shared his thoughts candidly. He noted that while considering several options, he feels "pretty well set" but is still open to changes.
Despite Vance's favorable reception, Trump did not ignore complications surrounding some candidates. Trump expressed reservations about Gov. Doug Burgum due to North Dakota’s stringent abortion legislation, which he labeled as a "pretty strong ban."
One interesting complication regarding Sen. Marco Rubio centers on both he and Trump sharing Florida as their home state. Under the 12th Amendment, this could jeopardize Florida’s 30 electoral votes, requiring careful handling of delegate arrangements or a potential resignation.
Trump acknowledged the challenge: “You do that and it makes it more complicated.” Nevertheless, he offered solutions, saying, "there has to be a resignation" or other adjustments to mitigate risks. Recently, Trump spent time campaigning with Rubio in Doral, Florida, reflecting positively on Rubio’s popularity: “Great last night, very popular.”
As Trump continues to weigh his running mate options, he remains outspoken about the Democratic Party. He dismissed concerns over President Biden’s cognitive abilities, asserting, “I don’t care if it’s him or somebody else. And these radical Democrats are all radical.”
He called Democratic contenders “radical left lunatics,” emphasizing that his choice would not hinge on who the Democrats nominate but on solidifying his own team.
Trump also defended the newly released 16-page Republican Party platform amidst some criticism. Figures like former Vice President Mike Pence have suggested the platform softens the party’s stance on abortion. However, Trump disagreed with this criticism, asserting it's rooted in common sense and not targeting moderates. He clarified that controversial measures like "gay bans" were not reflective of the party's direction.
In conclusion, Trump’s latest interview provided much insight into his thoughts on potential running mates. He praised JD Vance and acknowledged the electoral complications with Marco Rubio. Additionally, he voiced his reservations about Doug Burgum and staunchly defended the new GOP platform.
Ivanka Trump and Alice Marie Johnson spent a memorable day together playing golf and enjoying a dinner outing with their families.
According to Daily Mail, the event underscored their friendship, which began after Alice's release, following Kim Kardashian's advocacy campaign.
Ivanka Trump, 42, showcased her golfing prowess while spending the day with Alice Marie Johnson, 69, who was famously pardoned following a campaign by reality star Kim Kardashian. Both women shared The day joyously on their Instagram accounts, highlighting their enjoyable activities and strong family connections.
Ivanka was dressed in a navy workout dress, white sneakers, and a white baseball cap, while Alice opted for a teal outfit paired with black sneakers. The day was filled with laughter and camaraderie, concluding with a delightful dinner with their families. Arabella (12), Joseph (9), and Theodore (8) accompanied their mother, Ivanka, to the dinner.
Ivanka Trump posted a photo in a striking yellow dress that featured a heart-shaped cutout after the day's events, continuing to share moments from their time. Alice Marie Johnson and Ivanka have formed a genuine bond since Alice’s release in 2018, which was a significant event influenced by Kim Kardashian’s advocacy efforts.
Johnson's release overturned her life sentence for her involvement in cocaine trafficking. Since her release, she has been actively advocating for compassion and hopeful applicants through her non-profit organization, Taking Action for Good (TAG), which has successfully aided 46 individuals in obtaining second chances.
The day’s activities highlighted Johnson's continued influence and the deep bond she shares with Ivanka Trump, who has withdrawn from the political spotlight. Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, 43, have distanced themselves from former President Donald Trump’s ongoing re-election campaign and have settled in Florida with their children following his departure from office in January 2021.
Their shared day underscores the broader historical context of Johnson's role in criminal justice reform. Her case played a crucial role in the passage of the First Step Act in 2018, which promotes sentence reductions for good behavior and job training opportunities within the prison system. This monumental achievement is a testament to the tenacity and impact of her advocacy.
Alice Marie Johnson commented on her work: "It means a lot to me to tell others' stories. It is not about the things I did. It is about the people I represent." Her relentless dedication to advocacy work is evident as she continues to travel, bringing communities together and assisting families.
In reflecting on her relationship with Kim Kardashian, Johnson shared, "When I met Kim Kardashian I did not even know who she was. I did not have any preconceived ideas about her. I met her as a friend, who was advocating for me. We have a very close bond now."
This bond is not limited to Kardashian. Johnson's connection with Ivanka Trump also exemplifies the unexpected friendships and alliances that have formed. Ivanka, despite her past significant role during her father's administration, remains focused on her family and their lives in Florida.
Alice Marie Johnson's final thoughts highlight the emotionally rewarding nature of her work: "I have been actually so busy going from state to state. Just seeing the fruit of my labor, bringing communities together and restoring families. It is hard but very rewarding work."
Through their shared experiences and public appearances, Ivanka Trump and Alice Marie Johnson continue to present a narrative of enduring friendship and impactful advocacy. Their time together, from a sunny golf day to a family dinner, is a powerful reminder of the changes brought about through determined and compassionate leadership.
Hunter Biden has withdrawn his request for a new trial following criticisms from federal prosecutors regarding his misunderstanding of court orders.
According to the New York Post, Hunter Biden withdrew his request after prosecutors disproved his claims of jurisdictional errors in the initial trial.
Hunter Biden dropped his request for a new trial on Tuesday. He was convicted on June 11 of three counts related to lying about his drug addiction to obtain a firearm.
Biden's request for a new trial, filed on June 24, claimed Judge Maryellen Noreika lacked jurisdiction due to pending rulings. However, federal prosecutors quickly pointed out that the Third Circuit Court of Appeals had already granted Noreika the authority to preside over the trial.
Prosecutor Derek Hines emphasized that the Third Circuit had dismissed Biden's appeals before the trial began on June 3 and denied his petition for rehearing.
On Tuesday, defense attorney Abbe Lowell admitted that the Third Circuit's procedure was correct and withdrew the motion. This marked the end of Biden's bid for a new trial based on alleged jurisdictional errors.
Hunter Biden now faces a potential sentence of up to 25 years, though federal guidelines suggest he may receive a lesser sentence. Judge Noreika has yet to schedule a sentencing date.
Public opinion on the case has been strong. An Associated Press-NORC poll revealed that 60% of Americans, including 59% of Democrats, agreed with the verdict. Nearly half of the respondents believe Biden deserves prison time.
Biden’s legal troubles are not over, as he is scheduled for another trial on September 5 in Los Angeles. This trial concerns allegations of evading $1.4 million in taxes from 2016 to 2019.
Hunter Biden's appeal in the tax evasion case to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals was rejected in mid-May. This dismissal adds to his mounting legal challenges.
In their Monday response, prosecutors had criticized Biden for his "failure to read" court orders and misunderstanding the appellate process.
Hines highlighted that both dismissal orders from the Third Circuit were clearly marked as issued "in Lieu of Mandate," leaving no room for reconsideration of jurisdiction.
Hines expressed frustration at Biden's insistence that his appeals had stripped the court of jurisdiction, calling it a "laughable tale." The defense eventually conceded, leading to the withdrawal of the motion.
Prosecutors were particularly critical of Biden's legal strategy, which they perceived as an attempt to delay proceedings. They described his appeal in the tax evasion case as a "stunt to delay his trial."
Hunter Biden remains a focal point in legal and public discussions despite these setbacks. His upcoming trial in Los Angeles will continue to attract significant attention.
The public and media will closely follow the developments as the legal proceedings advance. The implications of these cases extend beyond Biden himself, touching on broader issues of legal accountability and public trust in the judicial system.
Hunter Biden’s case underscores the importance of clarity and adherence to legal procedures. It also highlights the challenges and scrutiny faced by individuals in the public eye.
Hunter Biden withdrew his request for a new trial after federal prosecutors disproved his jurisdictional claims. He was convicted in June for lying about his drug addiction to obtain a firearm and now faces potential sentencing. Public opinion largely supports the verdict, and Biden's legal challenges continue with an upcoming tax evasion trial.
According to a recent poll conducted by the Daily Mail, Senator Tim Scott has emerged as the top choice for Donald Trump's vice president pick.
Scott leads the poll with 13% support among likely voters, while other contenders remain in the mix as speculation mounts ahead of the Republican Party convention next week.
In an unexpected twist, Senator Tim Scott, the only black Republican in the Senate, received 13% support in the Daily Mail survey of 1,000 likely voters. Close on his heels, foreign policy expert Senator Marco Rubio and former neurosurgeon Ben Carson each garnered 12% support.
Adding to the intrigue, Senator J.D. Vance and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum each received 4% support. Notably, the top three candidates remained consistent when the pool of voters was filtered to just Republicans.
Speculation regarding Trump's vice president selection intensified late last month when the former president hinted that his decision had been made and suggested that the chosen candidate would join him at the first presidential debate in Atlanta, Georgia. However, Trump's team has been tight-lipped since then, withholding further details.
During a recent appearance on Fox News, Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller suggested that the announcement could come at any moment. "It could happen anytime this week," Miller remarked.
The latest poll data also coincide with a J.L. Partners survey showing Trump expanding his lead over President Biden by two points, now standing six points ahead following the presidential debate. Meanwhile, Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in Miami on Tuesday, followed by another in Pennsylvania on Saturday, adding to the mounting anticipation.
Within Trump's inner circle, differing opinions abound regarding the ideal vice president candidate. Influential figures such as Steve Bannon advocated for Burgum, while Donald Trump Jr. and influencer Charlie Kirk rallied behind Vance. Meanwhile, Kellyanne Conway throws her support behind Rubio.
Trump campaign senior adviser Brian Hughes acknowledged the high stakes of the decision. "As President Trump has said himself, the top criteria in selecting a vice president is a strong leader who will make a great president for eight years after his next four-year term concludes," Hughes noted.
Furthermore, Hughes warned that any claims about knowing Trump's choice or timeline are unfounded. "But anyone telling you they know who or when President Trump will choose his VP is lying unless that person is named Donald J. Trump," he added.
The Republican Party convention, scheduled for next week, is expected to center heavily on Trump's vice president pick, with his team maintaining a calculated silence on the matter. The nation watches closely as Trump inches closer to making the pivotal decision, a choice that will undoubtedly shape the dynamics of the upcoming election and the broader political landscape.
As excitement bubbles over Scott’s lead in the Daily Mail poll, one can only speculate how this potential selection might resonate with voters long-term. Will the sole black Republican in the Senate bring the diversification Trump's campaign seeks? Or will Trump's final nod go towards foreign policy acumen or conservative ideological alignment?
Tim Scott leads the Daily Mail poll for Trump's likely VP with 13% support, followed closely by Marco Rubio and Ben Carson with 12%. Speculation grows as the Republican Party convention approaches, with a final decision expected soon. The nation eagerly awaits Trump's VP pick, with every public appearance analyzed for hints. Upcoming rallies and the convention will be key in revealing the decision.
According to Axios, Biden, and his Democratic critics, both display a strong intensity, unwavering certainty, and irreversible commitment to their positions.
Supported by First Lady Jill Biden and his son Hunter, President Biden is committed to his campaign, suggesting only a divine event could deter him. Conversely, a growing number of Democrats are intensifying efforts to halt it, hoping key figures like Michelle and Barack Obama will intervene by Friday.
The conflict between Biden’s and his critics' stances is fierce, with both sides preparing aggressive strategies to prevail. In a recent call with his campaign co-chairs, Biden asserted his intention to increase voter engagement, highlighting his determination amidst internal criticism.
Since a debate ten days ago, Democratic legislators have encountered a range of emotions, from shock to anger. Further discontent stems from Biden's recent interview with ABC. As Congress reconvenes on Monday, further tensions are anticipated.
A House Democrat expressed deep concerns, indicating that “people are scared about their own races” as well as the state of the nation and democracy. The anxiety persisted throughout the Fourth of July break among lawmakers and is expected to rise again with Congress’s return.
A senior Democratic operative reported the widespread acknowledgment of Biden’s precarious political situation outside his closest circle. David Axelrod, an architect of former President Obama's campaigns, described Biden's mindset with words like “Denial. Delusion. Defiance.”
The Washington Post highlighted a major donor adviser’s claim that for every ten persons supporting Biden’s exit, only one supports his continuation. Despite grim assessments, recent polling provided a glimmer of hope, with Biden leading Trump in Michigan and Wisconsin and statistically tied in four other states.
In Pennsylvania, a critical battleground state where Biden is currently campaigning, he trails behind Trump. Lawmakers voiced profound concerns from major donors and key constituents over Biden’s ability to carry the election.
Constituents in swing states, such as those observed at a local forum, have flagged Biden's age as a significant issue. While few House Democrats publicly urge Biden to step down, many contemplate doing so in private.
These conversations are expected to intensify with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries holding a Zoom meeting with committee ranking members on Sunday. Likewise, Senator Mark Warner is organizing a meeting of Senate Democrats on Monday evening to deliberate Biden’s future.
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi is seen as the figure with the gravitas to influence Biden’s decision to step down potentially. Many Democrats are hopeful that Biden will decide by Friday to allow public attention to shift to other prominent events.
If Biden endorses Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor, she will need adequate time to prepare for the nomination. Without an endorsement, the lead-up to the Democratic convention in mid-August could see fierce competition for the nomination.
As necessitated by urgency, a Democratic operative stressed that further delay would only worsen the situation. Biden plans a press conference on Thursday following a NATO summit, where he aims to showcase strong leadership. Democrats hope that continued pressure will eventually prompt Biden to withdraw. If he remains steadfast, the Democratic convention could see a public showdown just 11 weeks before the election, risking a severe party fracture.
Following the June 27 presidential debate, Joe Biden's performance has led to rising internal concerns among leading Democrats and donors regarding his continued viability as a candidate..
During this period, former President Donald Trump, the leading Republican candidate, has been relatively silent, speculatively preferring Biden as his opponent while making minimal use of his Truth Social platform, as Just the News reports.
In the wake of the recent debate, Biden has faced criticism centered on his age and mental sharpness, with Reps. Lloyd Doggett and Raúl Grijalva, both Democrats, urging Biden to reconsider his reelection efforts. Additionally, reports have surfaced that donors might withdraw their financial support for Biden’s campaign, a fact further complicated by Virginia Democratic Sen. Mark Warner’s reported request for a conference discussion about Biden's campaign strategy moving forward.
Corey Lewandowski, a former adviser to Trump, has indicated that no one within the former president's team has openly advocated for Biden to step down from the presidential race.
After the debate, Trump’s campaign appearances have largely concentrated on critiques of Biden's policies rather than personal attacks, including a recent event in Virginia where he emphasized Biden’s competency issues over age factors. Trump remarked that Biden's real issue lies in his competence, drawing comparisons to older individuals achieving significant successes, emphasizing that age is not the root problem.
On social media, Trump has maintained a noticeably restricted presence. His Truth Social updates have primarily highlighted favorable opinion polls, a message for the Fourth of July, and various political endorsements.
Political analysts suggest that Trump’s quieter approach could be strategic, considering their close ages and Trump’s possible preference to face Biden in the general election. Trump’s campaign has refrained from commenting on his reduced social media engagement but emphasized his patriotic post on the Fourth of July.
Adding to the speculation, a leaked video emerged on Wednesday showing Trump predicting that Biden would exit the race, consequently positioning Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate. Trump expressed a controversial opinion on Harris' potential candidacy.
In the same leaked footage, Trump proposed a focused debate format featuring fewer participant conduct restrictions, suggesting this would allow for in-depth scrutiny of Biden's cognitive abilities. This leaked footage has intensified discussions about the high stakes of the 2024 presidential election, with Trump leveraging all available platforms to cast doubt on Biden's suitability as president.
Meanwhile, the pressure continues to mount on Biden from within his party. Reports of fundraising challenges and calls for strategic reevaluation indicate a tumultuous path ahead for the incumbent President. Warner's push for a conference meeting reflects growing unease among Democratic ranks about Biden’s prospects. As discussions unfold, the political landscape becomes increasingly strained with uncertainties surrounding the Democratic nomination.
Trump’s limited but sharp social media entries persist in accentuating Biden's alleged policy failures and calling for clear demonstrations of competency. His Fourth of July message was topped off with endorsements but remained focused on broader national concerns.
As the potential GOP candidate, Trump’s comparative silence might also be a calculated measure, choosing to avoid direct confrontations over personal attributes and let Biden’s internal party conflicts unfold. This strategy allows him to focus on wider conservative narratives.
As the debate aftermath continues to reverberate through both parties, Trump's stance and the Democrats' introspection set the stage for a contentious 2024 election cycle. Biden’s camp faces critical moments as party leaders and donors weigh their options.
President Joe Biden revealed that he saw a physician after a debate with former President Donald Trump, conflicting with earlier statements by White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
This statement has sparked new discussions about President Biden's health and capability to run for re-election, with some opining that his condition may be worse than anyone in his inner circle has revealed, as the Daily Wire reports.
In a private meeting with over 20 Democratic governors, President Biden admitted that he consulted a doctor after the debate with Donald Trump. This information was shared by three individuals familiar with the meeting, indicating that Biden was evaluated and cleared by his doctor.
During a recent White House press briefing, however, Karine Jean-Pierre asserted that President Biden had not seen a doctor since his annual physical in February. This was in response to CNN senior White House correspondent MJ Lee’s question about Biden's medical exams.
Lee asked Jean-Pierre if Biden had any medical examination, to which Jean-Pierre categorically replied, “No.” This response fueled curiosity and concern regarding the president’s healthcare following his debate performance.
Despite Jean-Pierre's initial comments, White House spokesman Andrew Bates later confirmed that Biden received a brief medical examination after the debate. According to Bates, the check-up was to assess a cold and confirm that Biden was recovering well. Bates emphasized that this exam was not a full physical, but rather a quick health check.
Biden, addressing the issue on a Wisconsin radio station, acknowledged his subpar debate performance, urging the electorate to consider his accomplishments in office. He admitted to having a "bad night" during the debate but emphasized the significant progress achieved in his administration over the past three and a half years.
On the other hand, former President Donald Trump criticized Biden's debate performance harshly. In a leaked video, Trump referred to Biden disparagingly, suggesting that the president might withdraw from the race due to his performance and declining abilities.
Trump seized this moment to highlight what he perceives as Biden's cognitive decline, predicting that Biden would struggle to recover from the debate.
The contrasting narratives from the White House and President Biden have raised eyebrows. Jean-Pierre maintained during the press conference that Biden had not undergone any medical check-ups post his annual physical. Yet, private admissions from Biden and confirmations from Bates suggest otherwise.
President Biden’s mixed messages came at a critical time, with some Democrats expressing concerns over his endurance and ability to lead another election campaign. This has prompted further scrutiny of Biden's overall health and his capacity to continue as a candidate.
In a recent radio interview, Biden redirected focus from his debate performance to his presidential accomplishments. He highlighted his leadership in reviving the economy, a pivotal point as he continues to persuade the public and party members of his suitability for re-election.
Amid these revelations, the conversation within the Democratic Party is intensifying. This internal debate underscores the broader challenge faced by Biden as he aims to secure his position in the upcoming election cycle.
A recent poll shows that former First Lady Michelle Obama would decisively win against former President Donald Trump.
As the New York Post reported, the Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates Michelle Obama outperforms other Democratic candidates, including President Biden, in a hypothetical match against Trump.
According to the poll released on Tuesday, Obama would triumph over Trump by 11 percentage points. The survey, conducted between July 1-2, reveals that 50% of registered voters would support Obama in contrast to 39% for Trump.
Meanwhile, other Democratic figures, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, do not fare as well against the ex-president.
Biden, who has been actively campaigning for reelection, finds himself in a tie with Trump at 40% each, according to the same survey. Trump holds a one-point edge over Harris, leading 43% to 42%.
Additionally, Trump would also emerge victorious in matchups against Democratic governors like Gavin Newsom of California, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and J.B. Pritzker of Illinois.
Michelle Obama has distanced herself from the Biden administration's reelection efforts and has made no public indications of running for office. She has maintained close personal relationships, notably with Hunter Biden’s ex-wife, Kathleen Buhle, while expressing displeasure at Buhle's exclusion by the first family.
Despite her favorable polling, the former first lady has chosen not to lend her support to the reelection campaign. In a 2022 interview, she explicitly refrained from endorsing Biden’s candidacy.
Conversely, former President Barack Obama has been more involved, appearing at fundraisers for Biden during the 2024 election cycle and supporting him after a lackluster debate against Trump.
Barack Obama has urged Democrats to back Biden despite his subpar debate performance on June 27. Publicly, he simply remarked the performance was "bad." However, privately, he has voiced doubts about President Biden's chances of securing victory, having questioned his capabilities since his 2020 presidential bid.
On Wednesday, President Biden reassured his campaign staff of his intent to remain in the race, even as he acknowledged concerns over his declining poll numbers. Biden's team remains optimistic about the campaign despite the hurdles highlighted by the recent poll results.
Michelle Obama’s hypothetical candidacy highlights a significant figure in the Democratic Party who remains a formidable presence despite her lack of political aspirations. With a notable margin of support, she remains a beacon for many within the party, seen as a potential unifier and strong candidate.
In conclusion, a Reuters/Ipsos poll underscores Michelle Obama’s theoretical lead over Trump by a noteworthy margin. Biden, while contending with static poll numbers and internal party hesitations, faces a competitive reelection campaign. Despite maintaining a distance from the Biden administration, Michelle Obama’s enduring popularity reflects a significant facet of the Democratic Party's potential strategies.
According to Breitbart News, President Biden's frequent napping and signs of fatigue have led to public concern about his cognitive health and multiple leaks from his campaign.
Biden, 81, took naps each of the six days allocated for his debate preparation, which never began before 11:00 a.m. Reports from a New York Times source reveal that the president's "lapses" have become more frequent and worrisome.
The recent leaks from his campaign have exacerbated an already tense situation. Biden's advisors are increasingly alarmed following a poor debate performance and subsequent calls for him to withdraw from the race.
Two negative reports about Biden's cognitive and physical performance were released on Tuesday. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates dismissed both reports as unfounded.
Biden's fatigue may be attributed to his recent international travels. He admitted that back-to-back trips to Europe affected his rest, necessitating the shortening of his debate prep by two days.
The president's extensive travel schedule has been notably demanding. Within 23 days of the debate against former President Donald J. Trump, Biden traveled extensively, including a trip from Italy to California for a fundraiser.
Distressing moments for Biden were observed by advisors and allies alike. At a D-Day ceremony in France on June 6, Biden appeared disoriented, further fueling concerns regarding his health.
More instances of confusion have amplified the scrutiny over Biden’s cognitive health. On June 7, he misstated the purpose of military aid to Ukraine and appeared to freeze during a Juneteenth celebration on June 10.
During an immigration event on June 18, Biden struggled to remember the name of Alejandro N. Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security. These incidents have left Biden’s advisors "shaken up."
A CBS News/YouGov poll from Tuesday shows that 72% of registered voters doubt Biden's mental and cognitive capacity for the presidency. This sentiment has been echoed within the campaign.
Special Counsel Robert Hur depicted Biden as "an elderly man with a poor memory." The president’s health concerns are compounded by conditions such as atrial fibrillation, peripheral neuropathy in his feet, and hyperlipidemia.
Biden’s physical struggles have become apparent over his term, with at least five documented incidents of stumbling. Observers have noted his reliance on multiple aides while walking to and from Marine One.
As public scrutiny mounts and internal frustration grows, concerns about President Biden's ability to effectively campaign and govern continue to intensify. His recent debate struggles and travels have only added to the persistent debate surrounding his cognitive health.
Former Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin has called on Democrats to persuade President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race after a lackluster debate performance that has fueled age-related concerns.
Harkin's comments underscore a growing unease within the Democratic Party, though some prominent figures continue to support Biden.
According to Fox News, Harkin, who served alongside Biden in Congress for over two decades, voiced his concerns during an interview with Julie Gammack on Iowa Potluck. He urged Democratic leaders to convince Biden to step aside, citing a debate performance that he described as disastrous.
The former senator's remarks come in the wake of widespread criticism of Biden's debate appearance. According to Harkin, voter perception is that former President Donald Trump can take command of a situation and control the outcome despite his answers being "meandering, gobbledygook, and full of lies."
Harkin's call for Biden to release his delegates and step aside was directed at incumbent Democratic Senators and several governors. He argued that Biden's current condition starkly contrasts with his past demeanor.
"Last night was a disaster from which Biden cannot recover," Harkin asserted, emphasizing that Biden has declined since his State of the Union address. He noted the president's physical demeanor as evidence of this decline.
Following Biden's debate performance on Thursday, there were immediate calls within the Democratic Party for him to withdraw over concerns about his age. However, not all party members share Harkin's view. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Majority Whip James Clyburn defended Biden, attributing his performance to "preparation overload."
The Biden campaign has not yet responded to a request for comment from Fox News Digital. In a campaign ad released after the debate, Biden addressed concerns about his age, emphasizing his experience and resilience.
"Folks, I know I’m not a young man," Biden stated in the ad. "But I know how to do this job. I know right from wrong. I know how to tell the truth. And I know, like millions of Americans know, when you get knocked down, you get back up."
Harkin's remarks highlight a growing divide within the Democratic Party regarding Biden's candidacy. While some leaders support him, others are beginning to question whether he is the best candidate to take on Trump in 2024.
As the debate over Biden's fitness for office continues, the party must grapple with the implications of either supporting an incumbent president or rallying behind a new candidate. Harkin's call for new leadership is a significant development in this ongoing discussion.
The debate performance has undeniably sparked a broader conversation about age and capability in political leadership. Biden's response and the actions of the Democratic Party in the coming months will be crucial in shaping the 2024 race.
In summary, former Sen. Tom Harkin has called for President Joe Biden to step aside following a criticized debate performance. Harkin's comments reflect a growing sentiment within the Democratic Party, although some prominent figures continue to support Biden. The Biden campaign has yet to respond to these calls, leaving the future of his candidacy uncertain.