Internet divided as Adam Smith says Biden is 'not the best person' to carry forward 'Democratic message'
WASHINGTON, DC: Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash) called on President Joe Biden to end his reelection bid, making him the most senior Democratic lawmaker to do so.
Smith voiced his concerns about Biden’s ability to carry the Democratic message forward, suggesting the need for a stronger candidate.
Adam Smith says Joe Biden's reelection bid 'would be a mistake'
Adam Smith, the highest-ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, made these remarks during an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper on 'The Lead'.
“Well, look, I think he should step aside. I think it’s become clear that he’s not the best person to carry the Democratic message,” Smith told Tapper according to The Hill.
He also stated that the Democratic Party has a strong record to run on, but needs a candidate who can effectively communicate it.
In a separate statement shared on social media, Smith reiterated his stance. "If the President continues his campaign, it would be a mistake. He should step aside now so that we can find a new candidate that will put us in the strongest possible position to beat Donald Trump in November."
I’m calling on President Biden to step down. If President Biden continues his campaign, it would be a mistake. President Biden has shown strong leadership, but it’s clear he is no longer the best candidate to meet the demands of the office. https://t.co/A82yiuDqRu
— Adam Smith (@electadamsmith) July 8, 2024
Adam Smith says Joe Biden must not run presidential race 'solely on past performance'
Adam Smith clarified his support for Joe Biden if he decides to run, but stressed that no candidate is entitled to another term based solely on past performance.
“If President Biden runs, I will back him one hundred percent and without reservation," Smith stated.
He added, "But no candidate is owed another term in office based solely on past performance. Every new term must be earned with the clear understanding of what that candidate will be capable of doing in the term to come."
Smith expressed doubts about Biden’s ability to meet the demands of the office.
“Any candidate for the highest office in our nation has a strong burden to bear," Smith wrote.
"That candidate must be able to clearly, articulately, and strongly make his or her case to the American people. It is clear that President Biden is no longer able to meet this burden," he further stated.
Adam Smith thinks VP Kamala Harris would be a better Democratic nominee for 2024 election
Adam Smith indicated his support for Vice President Kamala Harris as a potential presidential candidate in the interview.
“Personally, I think Kamala Harris would be a much better, stronger candidate and because she is, constitutionally, second," Smith said.
"That’s the way it’s supposed to work,” he said, emphasizing that Biden should not resign before his term ends," he added.
Reportedly, according to sources, Smith was among the four senior House Democrats who, during a private call on Sunday, expressed that Biden should exit the presidential race.
Internet divided as Adam Smith calls Joe Biden to step aside from the presidential election
Adam Smith’s comments sparked a wide range of reactions online. Some expressed disappointment, with one user writing, "Hugely disappointed in you. This is how Dems lose."
Another criticized Smith saying, "You’re embarrassing yourself and our party."
On the other hand, some supported Smith's views. "Thank you! I know you’ll get a lot of pushback & hate from BlueMAGA but I so appreciate you telling the truth," one X user tweeted.
"Many of us who are not Dem Twitter 'influencers' are just as concerned as you are. We’re behind & the 46+ team seems to think things will magically get better if we ignore the issue," the user added.
One more wrote in support, "Thank you!! Don’t often agree with your politics but deeply admire the courage in putting beating Trump and the country first."
One questioned, "If he can’t meet the demands of the office why would you not be calling for him to step down from the presidency? Not just the campaign."
Comments indicated division between democratic voters as party infighting takes center stage.
"What an embarrassing time to be a Dem voter. Division within the party with all we have on the line in November. I wish Dems would grow a spine," wrote one user.
Thank you!! Don’t often agree with your politics but deeply admire the courage in putting beating Trump and the country first.
— brent is excited SUMMER is here ☀️🌴 (@brent858) July 8, 2024
Thank you! I know you’ll get a lot of pushback & hate from BlueMAGA but I so appreciate u telling the truth. Many of us who r not Dem twitter “influencers” r just as concerned as you are. We’re behind & 46+team seem to think things will magically get better if we ignore the issue
— Heidi ⛄️ (@buddynewman) July 8, 2024
If he can’t meet the demands of the office why would you not be calling for him to step down from the presidency? Not just the campaign.
— AM (@andjo47) July 8, 2024
What an embarrassing time to be a Dem voter. Division within the party with all we have on the line in November. I wish Dems would grow a spine.
— Marie (@saucymilf) July 8, 2024
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