Democratic Sen. Peter Welch: Biden should withdraw for the good of the country
Senator Peter Welch of Vermont, a Democrat, publicly urged Joe Biden to step out of the presidential race, marking the first significant departure within his party.
Welch’s call reflects the growing concerns among Democrats that Biden’s approach might jeopardize not only their hold on the White House but also their chances to regain the House and maintain control of the Senate.
Despite the White House’s efforts to quell dissent during emotional meetings with Senate and House Democrats on Tuesday, some of Biden’s supporters still voiced doubts about his campaign strategy and leadership capabilities.
Welch wrote in an op-ed piece in The Washington Post that: “We cannot unsee President Biden’s disastrous debate performance. We cannot ignore or dismiss the valid questions raised since that night.”
“For the good of the country, I’m calling on President Biden to withdraw from the race.”
He continued, “I deliver this assessment with sadness. Vermont loves Joe Biden. President Biden and Vice President Harris received a larger vote percentage here than in any other state. But regular Vermonters are worried that he can’t win this time, and they’re terrified of another Trump presidency.”
Welch was elected to the Senate in November 2022 to fill the seat of the retiring Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT). Known for his progressive views, Welch has been involved in various initiatives concerning health care, environmental issues, and the economy.
“The latest data makes it clear that the political peril to Democrats is escalating,” Welch wrote. “States that were once strongholds are now leaning Republican. These new shifts — in Minnesota, New Hampshire, Nevada, Arizona and Georgia — must be taken seriously, not denied or ignored.”
“The good news is that President Biden has united the party and created a deep bench that can defeat Trump. Vice President Harris is a capable, proven leader, and we have other electable, young, energizing Democratic governors and senators in swing states. Not only do these leaders have experience running and winning in tough political environments, they also have fundraising networks, media experience, charisma, and the ability to inspire voters across generations and across our big tent.”
Welch finished, “We have asked President Biden to do so much for so many for so long. It has required unmatched selflessness and courage. We need him to put us first, as he has done before. I urge him to do it now.”
Yesterday, Democratic leaders gathered in a confidential meeting on Capitol Hill, facing a critical juncture for Biden and the Democratic Party amid escalating concerns over his health. The meeting, held at the Democratic Party headquarters with strict instructions for no cellphones, was framed as a mere “family” discussion by party leaders. Inside, the tone was reportedly “dour” as members weighed the political ramifications of either standing by Biden or suggesting he consider stepping down.
Despite the internal debates, Biden has made it clear he has no plans to resign, emphasizing this in a forceful letter that the party should concentrate on countering President Trump.
