Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) has publicly urged President Joe Biden to step down as the Democratic presidential nominee, citing overwhelming support from his constituents. In an interview on NBC News’ “Hallie Jackson NOW,” Doggett expressed his dismay over Biden’s debate performance against former President Donald Trump, which prompted his call for Biden to withdraw.
Doggett recounted his immediate reaction to the debate, stating, “The next morning, I was out to talk on the floor of Congress with our leadership, and with as many of my colleagues as I could find, to express the view that it was time for a replacement and for President Biden to step aside.”
Upon returning to his home state, Doggett discovered that his constituents strongly agreed with his assessment. “Coming home to Texas this weekend, I would say that the input from my constituents has been 10-1 in favor of replacing President Biden on the ticket,” he reported.
While Doggett has received feedback from other members of Congress, he did not elaborate on their positions. He emphasized that his decision was driven by concern for the nation’s well-being, not personal ambition. “I thought it was time for me to speak up. Not for any self gain, but because I think the risk to our country is so great,” Doggett asserted.
Doggett also voiced concerns that Democrats fear losing control of both the House and the Senate in the upcoming 2024 elections. Although he acknowledged that the process of replacing Biden would be “messy” and “chaotic,” he insisted that it was necessary to prevent Trump from winning the presidency again.
Doggett’s call for Biden to step aside marks a significant moment within the Democratic Party as they grapple with the challenges of the upcoming election.