U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett, a Democrat from Austin, has publicly urged President Joe Biden to step down as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential race. Doggett’s statement comes after Biden’s debated performance against former President Donald Trump last week.

Concerns Over Polls and Debate Impact

Doggett expressed his concerns, highlighting Biden’s struggle in key states and unfavorable polling numbers against Trump. “I had hoped that the debate would provide some momentum to change that. It did not,” Doggett stated. He criticized Biden for failing to effectively defend his accomplishments and counter Trump’s false claims.

First Democratic Call for Withdrawal

At 77, Doggett is the first Democratic member of Congress to suggest Biden should withdraw from the race following the debate. While U.S. Representative Dean Phillips of Minnesota had challenged Biden in the primaries, he has remained silent since the debate.

Debate Fallout Among Texas Democrats

Biden’s debate performance has caused alarm among Texas Democrats, who are facing tight races down the ticket, including a critical U.S. Senate contest. Despite these concerns, most Democrats have refrained from calling for Biden’s withdrawal, instead rallying behind the president or staying silent.

Diverse Reactions from Democratic Leaders

U.S. Representative Lizzie Fletcher of Houston responded to Doggett’s call with a contrasting perspective. “The 2024 election presents a choice between two very different visions for our future. It’s clear which candidate is best for America and Americans,” Fletcher stated, emphasizing Biden’s vision for progress.

Impact on Down Ballot Races

Biden’s debate performance could affect down ballot races in Texas, where Democratic candidates are vying for key positions. U.S. Representative Colin Allred is challenging Senator Ted Cruz, while Democrats aim to unseat U.S. Representative Monica De La Cruz in the 15th Congressional District. Meanwhile, Representatives Vicente Gonzalez and Henry Cuellar are defending their seats in South Texas.

Silence Among Democratic Candidates

Allred, Cuellar, and Michelle Vallejo, the Democratic candidate for the 15th district, have yet to comment on Biden’s debate performance. Gonzalez emphasized his independent reputation among district voters.

Republican Criticism

Jack Pandol, communications director for the National Republican Congressional Committee, criticized Democrats for their silence. “Americans remember House Democrats were complicit in covering up and gaslighting the public about the president’s condition,” Pandol stated, predicting voter backlash in November.

Doggett’s Call for Change

Doggett, a long-serving congressman since 1995, thanked Biden for his service but emphasized the urgency of finding a stronger candidate to challenge Trump. He cited historical precedent, referencing Lyndon Johnson’s decision to withdraw in 1968 under similar circumstances.

Potential Successors

If Biden were to step down, the Democratic Party would need to select a new candidate at their national convention in Chicago this August. Potential successors include Vice President Kamala Harris, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, though none have openly declared their candidacy.

Biden’s Response

Despite calls for his withdrawal, Biden remains firm in his belief that he is the best candidate to defeat Trump. Following the debate, he addressed supporters in North Carolina, acknowledging his limitations but emphasizing his commitment to truth and leadership.

Conclusion

The coming months will be critical for the Democratic Party as they navigate internal debates and prepare for the national convention. Doggett’s call for Biden’s withdrawal underscores the high stakes and the urgent need for a unified strategy to challenge Trump in the 2024 election.