'A kooky opportunist': Internet divided as Marianne Williamson calls for an open convention to replace Joe Biden in 2024 race

WASHINGTON, DC: Marianne Williamson, a self-help author and Democratic presidential hopeful, has reignited her campaign by urging the Democratic Party to reopen the competition for its 2024 presidential nomination.

Williamson’s appeal follows President Joe Biden’s widely criticized debate performance which she believes necessitates new leadership to challenge former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election.

Marianne Williamson stressed on the importance of having 'another Democratic candidate'

In a statement, Williamson expressed her respect and gratitude for President Biden but stressed the importance of having a new Democratic candidate on the November ballot.

She called for a robust conversation about the country's future and a dynamic campaign leading up to an open convention in August.

“President Biden deserves our respect, our compassion, and our gratitude,” Williamson said in her statement.

“The debate last week, however, made clear that the time is now for another Democratic candidate to take his place on the November ballot,” the statement added.

Williamson, who turns 72 next week, added, "Over the next two months, we need to do what we should have been doing over the last year and a half: engaging in a robust conversation about this country and how we’re going to beat Donald Trump in November."

"Today I throw my hat in the ring. We need to have an exciting campaign and an open convention in August," she continued. 

Open convention hasn't been held from 40 years 

Williamson's call for an open or brokered convention is unusual at this stage in the election cycle. It has been over 40 years since a major party entered its convention without a clear candidate to lead the ticket, according to New York Times. 

Despite the rarity of such a move, some Democrats are voicing support for her idea. 

On Tuesday, July 2, Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) became the first House Democrat to publicly urge Biden to step aside from the 2024 race.

Williamson highlighted her combined receipt of over half a million votes in primary contests, noting the need for a democratic nominating process.

Williamson suspended her campaign in early February. Later that month, she announced that she was re-entering the race after finishing third in Michigan’s primary, where she received three percent of the vote.

“It is imperative that the new process not be manipulated by party and media elites,” Williamson stated.

“The search for a new candidate must be not directed by behind-the-scenes players, but rather must be a genuinely democratic process," she said.

 “A government ‘of the people, by the people, and for the people’ has been replaced by a government ‘of the donors, by the lobbyists, and for the corporations.’ We the People will no longer tolerate this. The political industrial complex has had its way with us for far too long. It’s our turn now," se added, Metro Times noted.

 Internet divided after Marianne Williamson's announcement

Reactions on social media have been mixed. One user wrote on X, "I nominate you." Another posted, "Such wonderful news… This is exactly what America needs. Thank you."

However, not all responses were supportive. One commenter suggested, "Not a chance everything is decided behind closed doors with @TheDemocrats."

Some users were critical of Williamson's move. "This is a huge stab in the back. When there should be unity around Biden from all non-Trumpian political forces - the only one realistic person able to defeat Trump - in order to help him get back in the race with enthusiasm, @marwilliamson does the irresponsible," said one user.

Another added, "Just what we need right now—a kooky opportunist with no chance of winning!"

Despite the divided opinions, Williamson's announcement has certainly stirred conversation. As one supporter summed up, "My heart just jumped with joy!"

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