In a groundbreaking move, Vermont Senator Peter Welch has become the first Democratic senator to publicly urge President Joe Biden to step aside as the party’s nominee for the 2024 presidential election. In a Washington Post op-ed, Welch emphasized the critical importance of the upcoming election and expressed his concerns about Biden’s performance and electability.

“The stakes could not be higher. We cannot unsee President Biden’s disastrous debate performance. We cannot ignore or dismiss the valid questions raised since that night,” Welch wrote, underscoring his respect for the president. Despite acknowledging Biden’s significant role in defeating former President Donald Trump in 2020, Welch urged the president to reconsider his candidacy.

“I understand why President Biden wants to run. He saved us from Donald Trump once and wants to do it again,” Welch continued. “But he needs to reassess whether he is the best candidate to do so. In my view, he is not. For the good of the country, I’m calling on President Biden to withdraw from the race.”

Welch praised Vice President Kamala Harris as “a capable, proven leader” and highlighted the presence of other dynamic Democratic governors and senators from swing states who could invigorate the party’s chances.

Welch’s call marks him as the tenth congressional Democrat to suggest Biden step aside, joining colleagues from the House. Colorado Senator Michael Bennet, on Tuesday, became the first senator to publicly express doubts about Biden’s re-election prospects, although he stopped short of calling for his withdrawal.

“Donald Trump is on track, I think, to win this election, and maybe win it by a landslide, and take with him the Senate and the House,” Bennet said.

The sentiment is shared by other senators, including Montana’s Jon Tester and Ohio’s Sherrod Brown, both of whom are vulnerable incumbents facing tough re-elections. They raised similar concerns about Biden’s viability during a Senate Democratic lunch earlier this week.

Despite Vermont’s strong support for Biden, Welch noted the increasing anxiety among his constituents. “Vermont loves Joe Biden,” Welch wrote. “President Biden and Vice President Harris received a larger vote percentage here than in any other state. But regular Vermonters are worried that he can’t win this time, and they’re terrified of another Trump presidency.”

Welch’s bold stance adds to the growing chorus within the Democratic Party calling for new leadership in the face of a potentially formidable challenge from Trump in the 2024 election.

4o