Rep. Adam Schiff on Wednesday became the first prominent elected Democrat to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race. Schiff, who is currently campaigning for the US Senate in California, emphasized the urgency of passing the torch to secure victory against former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
Schiff’s announcement marks a significant departure from other Democrats who have refrained from calling on Biden to step aside, particularly noteworthy because Schiff himself is not in a swing district and maintains a close relationship with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
“While the choice to withdraw from the campaign is President Biden’s alone, I believe it is time for him to pass the torch. And in doing so, secure his legacy of leadership by allowing us to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election,” Schiff stated in a press release.
He praised Biden’s past achievements but expressed concerns about the nation’s future, warning that another Trump presidency would pose a severe threat to democracy.
Schiff, known for his role as an impeachment manager during Trump’s presidency, had previously urged Biden to carefully consider the future of his campaign following a disappointing performance in a recent CNN debate.
In response to Schiff’s call, a Biden campaign spokesperson referenced a recent letter from the President reaffirming his commitment to continue his candidacy, highlighting support from key Democratic figures such as Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chair Nanette Barragan.
The Democratic Party faces internal discord over the best path forward, exacerbated by doubts about Biden’s ability to defeat Trump in November and concerns that his candidacy could harm down-ballot Democrats.
Despite growing pressure from within the party to reconsider nominating Biden, the Democratic National Committee is proceeding with plans to virtually nominate him ahead of the upcoming convention in Chicago.
