Minnesota Representative Angie Craig has become the first openly LGBTQ+ member of Congress to call for President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. Craig joins a growing number of Democratic lawmakers who doubt Biden’s ability to effectively campaign against former President Donald Trump. In a statement on X, Craig praised Biden’s legislative achievements but pointed to his recent debate performance as a critical factor in her decision.
“Given what I saw and heard from the President during last week’s debate in Atlanta, coupled with the lack of a forceful response from the President himself following that debate, I do not believe that the President can effectively campaign and win against Donald Trump,” she wrote. Craig highlighted Biden’s significant legislative accomplishments, such as the bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the CHIPS and Science Act, as well as her collaboration with him on capping insulin costs for seniors, expanding mental health support for police officers and their families, and investing in resources to combat the fentanyl crisis at the southern border.
Craig emphasized the high stakes of the upcoming election, stating, “This is not a decision I’ve come to lightly, but there is simply too much at stake to risk a second Trump presidency. That’s why I respectfully call on President Biden to step aside as the Democratic nominee for a second term as President and allow for a new generation of leaders to step forward.”
Her remarks follow a primetime interview Biden gave to ABC’s George Stephanopoulos, where he sought to address concerns stemming from his widely criticized debate performance. Despite describing the debate as a “bad episode” and attributing his difficulties to a “really bad cold,” Biden remained resolute about continuing his campaign, stating that only “the Almighty” could convince him to step aside.
The pressure on Biden is mounting as more Democratic lawmakers express their concerns. Illinois Rep. Mike Quigley and other prominent Democrats, including Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett and Arizona Rep. Raúl Grijalva, have voiced their desire for Biden to step down, emphasizing the need for a transitional leader. Massachusetts Rep. Seth Moulton also called for Biden to step aside, highlighting the necessity for a new generation of Democratic leaders.
These public calls reflect a broader sentiment within the Democratic Party, where many members are increasingly worried about Biden’s viability as the party’s nominee. U.S. Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia is reportedly organizing meetings to discuss the president’s future candidacy, while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York is also meeting with members to discuss Biden’s future. Despite the mounting pressure, Biden’s team remains adamant that he will continue his campaign, insisting the race remains a “tossup.”