President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race has sparked immediate calls from Republican leaders for his resignation from office.
At a glance:
- GOP figures argue Biden’s withdrawal proves he’s unfit to serve as president
- Biden administration reaffirms president’s intention to complete his term
- Republicans prepare to challenge Harris’s potential candidacy
- Democratic leaders defend Biden’s decision as “patriotic” and “selfless”
Republican leaders have swiftly called for President Joe Biden’s immediate resignation following his announcement that he would not seek re-election in 2024. The GOP argues that Biden’s decision to step aside from the presidential race raises questions about his ability to serve out the remainder of his term.
Republican Reactions
House Speaker Mike Johnson, the top Republican in Congress, stated, “If Joe Biden is not fit to run for President, he is not fit to serve as President. He must resign the office immediately.” Similar sentiments were echoed by other prominent Republicans, including New York Representative Elise Stefanik and Senator Steve Daines of Montana.
Some GOP members, like Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, suggested invoking the 25th Amendment to remove Biden from office – a proposal that mirrors calls made against former President Donald Trump during his tenure.
White House Response
The Biden administration has firmly stated that the President intends to complete his term, which ends in January 2025. A White House statement emphasized that Biden “looks forward to finish his term and delivering more historic results for the American people.”
Focus Shifts to Harris
With Biden endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee, Republicans have already begun to redirect their criticism. GOP leaders have portrayed Harris as an “inept border czar” and a “gleeful accomplice” in what they describe as failed policies.
Democratic Support
Democratic leaders, including former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, have praised Biden’s decision as “patriotic” and “selfless.” However, while many have thrown their support behind Harris, some top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have not yet explicitly endorsed her as the replacement candidate.
