Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) has become the first Democrat in Congress to publicly urge President Biden to withdraw as the party’s 2024 nominee, following what was deemed a disastrous debate performance last week.
The Growing Concern Among Democrats
Many Democratic lawmakers are increasingly anxious about their party’s prospects in the upcoming November 5th elections. There is a palpable fear of a widespread defeat and a desperate hope to salvage their chances by considering alternative options.
Lloyd Doggett Statement
“Too much is at stake to risk a Trump victory—too great a risk to assume that what could not be turned around in a year, what was not turned around in the debate, can be turned around now,” said Doggett, a seasoned Texas Democrat, in a statement. He emphasized that his decision to publicly voice these concerns was not made lightly and did not diminish his respect for President Biden’s accomplishments.
“I am hopeful that he will make the painful and difficult decision to withdraw. I respectfully call on him to do so,” Doggett added.
The Biden Campaign’s Response
In response to Lloyd Doggett remarks, the Biden campaign referred to a previous statement by spokesperson Mia Ehrenberg, asserting that the president “is absolutely not dropping out.” The campaign has downplayed the debate’s impact, highlighting it as their most successful grassroots fundraising day to date.
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Lloyd Doggett Influence
Lloyd Doggett, 77, has represented Austin, Texas, in Congress for nearly three decades and is a prominent member of the House Ways and Means Committee. As a leading figure in the Democratic Party’s progressive wing, he holds significant sway, especially as the co-dean of Texas’ congressional delegation alongside Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas).
“Somebody had to go first and it had to be somebody who didn’t have a lot to lose,” said Ed Espinoza, an Austin-based Democratic strategist. Espinoza noted that Doggett’s seniority, respect among peers, and lack of further political ambitions reduced the risks associated with making such a statement.
The Fallout from the Debate
Biden’s faltering debate performance has left Democratic lawmakers unsettled, with many privately discussing potential replacements. The 81-year-old president’s hoarse and hesitant delivery, coupled with noticeable gaffes, provided ample fodder for the Trump campaign, which quickly capitalized on the moment with a digital ad. Republicans continue to hammer on these missteps.
The Significance of Doggett’s Call
“It was important that someone like Doggett be the first because you can’t say this is a case of ageism if one of Biden’s peers is encouraging him to go a different direction,” Espinoza explained. Doggett’s call for Biden to withdraw underscores the urgency felt within the party to reassess their strategy ahead of the 2024 election.
Looking Ahead
As the Democratic Party navigates this critical juncture, the discourse surrounding President Biden’s candidacy is likely to intensify. With the stakes higher than ever, the party must consider all options to ensure a competitive stance against the Republicans in the upcoming elections. The conversation initiated by Lloyd Doggett may just be the beginning of a broader movement within the party to reevaluate its leadership and direction.
