Independent Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia has called on President Joe Biden to step aside, suggesting it is time for a new generation of leadership. During an appearance on ABC’s “This Week,” Manchin praised Biden’s legacy, stating, “He will go down with a legacy unlike many people as one of the finest and surely a patriot, an American. And so with that, I come with a heavy heart to think the time has come for him to pass the torch to a new generation.”
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Manchin, who changed his party registration from Democrat to Independent this year while still caucusing with the Democrats in the Senate, directly addressed the issue when asked by ABC host Martha Raddatz if Biden should step aside as the Democratic nominee.
Manchin highlighted the opportunities Biden has in the remaining months of his presidency to unite the country and focus on significant international issues.
“Biden has the ability for the last five months of his presidency to be the president he always wanted to be, be able to unite the country, bring it back together, to be able to maybe spend all of his time on solving the problems in Gaza, bringing peace to Gaza and the Middle East,” Manchin said. He added that Biden could also dedicate his time to supporting Ukraine and demonstrating an orderly transfer of power.
Manchin’s call comes three weeks after Biden’s poor debate performance against former President Trump. Manchin noted that he initially thought Biden needed time to decide his next steps but has since changed his stance. He expressed concern for Democratic colleagues facing competitive races, fearing Biden’s re-election campaign might harm their chances.
Manchin reportedly voiced his concerns to Biden’s allies, including Senator Chris Coons and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, but initially decided to give Biden time to make his decision independently. However, with increasing pressure from donors for a change in direction, Manchin now believes Biden must withdraw from the race.
“It’s concerning. It’s concerning when you watch him. I’m concerned about the president’s health and well-being, I am,” Manchin said. He described his ongoing communication with Biden, noting the president’s mood in their interactions.
Despite his recommendation for Biden to end his re-election campaign, Manchin affirmed his belief that Biden still has the mental capacity to complete his term. “I think he can finish this job that he started and finish the way he wanted to lead,” Manchin said.