Richard Branson joins anti-Biden camp accusing POTUS of creating 'dangerous distraction' in 2024 race

Virgin Group founder Richard Branson said 'it's time' for Joe Biden to allow another Democrat to run for the presidency
PUBLISHED JUL 13, 2024
Billionaire Richard Branson called on Joe Biden to drop out of 2024 race (Getty Images)
Billionaire Richard Branson called on Joe Biden to drop out of 2024 race (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC: Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group, has publicly called for President Joe Biden to step aside and allow another Democrat to take the helm in the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

Branson, known for his ventures in business and space travel, expressed admiration for Biden's tenure but emphasized the need for a strategic shift in leadership.

Richard Branson asks Joe Biden to step aside for Democratic party's sake

In a blog post, Richard Branson commended Joe Biden for his achievements but asserted that the current political landscape demands a different approach. "Now is the time that he should consider what’s at stake and step back from another run," Branson wrote, suggesting that Biden's continuation could overshadow critical issues facing the nation.

"Standing down now wouldn’t have to mean the end of a lifetime in public service, either," Branson said, adding, "He could still do enormous good in the world. But his desire to carry on has created a dangerous distraction from the issues this presidential race should really focus on. It’s not too late to make the right decision now and step aside — for America, and for the free world."

(Getty Images)
Joe Biden is facing increasing calls to step aside amid concerns about his age and mental fitness (Getty Images)

Branson, a British citizen, typically refrains from US political commentary but felt compelled to speak out, highlighting the global implications of American leadership. A spokesperson for Virgin Group clarified Branson's stance, noting, "as a business leader outside of the US looking in, the need to speak up this time given how this impacts the rest of the world," per Fox.

Aftermath of Joe Biden's disastrous debate

The call from Branson adds to a chorus of influential voices urging Biden to rethink his candidacy after his recent debate debacle on June 27. During the 90-minute televised debate, Biden frequently mumbled, trailed off mid-sentence, and struggled to articulate his points.

Presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump seized the opportunity to ridicule Biden's occasionally unclear statements. The incumbent frequently stumbled during his responses and, at one instance, paused before stating, "I beat Medicare."

U.S. President Joe Biden (R) and Republican presidential candidate, former U.S. President Donald Trump participate in the CNN Presidential Debate at the CNN Studios on June 27, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. President Biden and former President Trump are facing off in the first presidential debate of the 2024 campaign. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
President Joe Biden's performance during the debate with former President Donald Trump has sparked concern among Democrats (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

This includes prominent figures like Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings and Walt Disney heir Abigail Disney, who have publicly advocated for a change in Democratic leadership. The catalyst for this growing sentiment stems partly from concerns over Biden's performance, notably exacerbated by a recent debate and subsequent public appearances.

Despite mounting pressure, Biden remains resolute in his intention to seek reelection, citing his determination to defeat the presumptive Republican nominee, former President Trump. However, recent incidents, including verbal slip-ups during international events, have intensified scrutiny of Biden's candidacy.

Internet split after Richard Branson calls for Joe Biden's exit from 2024 race

In the wake of billionaire Branson's call for President Biden to step aside in the upcoming 2024 presidential race, social media platforms erupted with mixed reactions. 

A social media user commented, "Richard Branson is 100 per cent correct!"

Another one said, "Save your breath, he won’t drop out, he has too much corruption to cover up as long as he can."

A third one claimed, "Advice form a citizen of a county that still has a monarchy."

"He wants more billions. He wants Trump’s tax cuts for the rich," read a comment.

"He’s done a good job, time to give over," penned an individual.

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.

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