Adam Schiff Urges Biden to ‘Pass the Torch’ in Latest Call for Leadership Transition
Prominent California Congressman and Senate candidate Adam Schiff has called for President Joe Biden to “pass the torch” and allow another Democrat to challenge Donald Trump in the upcoming election. Schiff praised Biden’s presidency as historically consequential but argued that stepping aside could secure Biden’s leadership legacy while enhancing the Democratic Party’s chances against Trump in November.
“Our nation stands at a critical juncture. Another Trump presidency threatens our democratic foundations, and I have serious doubts about Biden’s ability to defeat him,” Schiff remarked, reflecting growing concerns within the party about Biden’s candidacy following a lackluster debate performance and questions about his mental acuity.
Schiff’s statement coincided with the Democratic National Committee’s decision to expedite Biden’s nomination through a virtual roll-call vote, scheduled ahead of the Ohio candidate certification deadline on August 7th. This move has stirred controversy among Democrats, with some advocating for an open convention to explore alternative candidates amid polling indicating significant party member support for Biden stepping aside.
Democratic National Committee leaders, while acknowledging logistical challenges posed by Ohio’s filing deadlines, emphasized the need to ensure ballot access and minimize legal risks. They defended the virtual voting process against criticisms of rush and disruption to party unity, amid ongoing discussions about potential replacements for Biden.
Meanwhile, Biden continues to campaign actively, aiming to rejuvenate his candidacy following recent setbacks. Despite internal party tensions and external pressures, Biden affirmed his commitment to remaining in the race, citing his determination to address national challenges amidst a divided political landscape. He also indicated for the first time a willingness to consider medical advice regarding his candidacy, highlighting ongoing evaluations of his health by medical professionals.