'Long overdue': Internet split as Jamie Raskin says 'serious conversations are taking place' on Biden's future after debate

WASHINGTON, DC: Democratic Rep Jamie Raskin admitted that "very honest, and serious and rigorous conversations" were taking place in the party after President Joe Biden's lackluster performance at the first presidential debate of the 2024 race on June 27.

The Maryland lawmaker broke away from the usual tone of Democrats who publicly defended the 81-year-old, claiming the debate did not disqualify his re-election bid despite acknowledging it was "bad."

In an interview with MSNBC's Ali Velshi on Sunday, June 30, Raskin indicated the Democratic Party would remain "unified" irrespective of the president's decision.

In his first face-off with former President Donald Trump for a second White House term, Biden started off with a raspy voice faltering several times compared to an energetic performance from his Republican opponent. It prompted calls for the octogenarian to exit the race due to concerns about his age and mental ability to lead the nation for one more term if elected in November.

Jamie Raskin stays away from defending Joe Biden's dull debate show

"We're having a serious conversation about what to do," the congressman said, as per The Hill.  "One thing I can tell you is that regardless of what President Biden decides, our party is going to be unified, and our party also needs him at the very center of our deliberations in our campaign.

Raskin affirmed that Biden would be the keynote speaker at the Democratic National Convention in August regardless of whether he was the candidate or someone else was, adding, "He will be the figure that we rally around to move forward and beat the forces of authoritarianism and reaction in the country."

In addition, the lawmaker noted that the president "came back roaring" in his post-debate appearance in North Carolina on June 28, where he gave a "sharp and hard-hitting speech."

Despite the calls to step down, the Biden campaign declared the incumbent would continue his re-election bid and that the debate "did not change the horse race." After his dismal debate show, the president spent the weekend with his family in Camp David, where the Biden clan urged him to stay in the presidential race.

Internet divided over Jamie Raskin's comment on 'serious conversations' after debate

Weighing in on Jamie Raskin's remarks about serious discussions after Joe Biden's poor debate performance, netizens divided into two camps. While one side supported it, another bunch opposed any move to remove Biden.

"Long overdue," a user commented on Facebook. While another said, "Raskin's running his mouth because he wants the job!"

"The democrats should’ve had these conversations before they nominated joe biden 4 years ago. They knew, We knew, The media knew, everyone knew," added a user. 

"@RepRaskin, I am normally a fan of yours. But if you truly said this, I want you to know it is highly offensive. Democrats showed up and voted for Pres. Biden in primaries. Any attempts by party bigwigs to replace the candidate we voters selected would be outrageous. Don't do it," someone else argued on X.

On the other hand, an individual said, "The big guy being the stubborn pr**k he is will not bow out . They are conspiring to release documents that are impeachable offenses and he will have a disgraceful end to a disgraceful political career."

"There better be. And if the party elites won't budge than rank and file members need to start speaking out," another user added.

Meanwhile, a remark read, "Uncertain how to take @RepRaskin statement . But clear if Biden steps down, America will lose democracy One bad debate does not dictate outcome of election. I’m shocked and disappointed in the pearl clutching and how quickly Dems want to boot @POTUS."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.