Arizona Congressman Raúl Grijalva told the New York Times that President Joe Biden needs to drop his reelection bid.
On Wednesday, Grijalva told the Times he’ll support Biden if he remains the party’s presumptive presidential nominee. But the longtime southern Arizona lawmaker also said Biden shoulders the “responsibility” of helping Democrats retain control of the White House.
And part of that responsibility, Grijalva said, is to “get out of this race.”
Grijalva is the second congressional Democrat to call on Biden to end his candidacy.
On Tuesday, Texas Democrat Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a 30-year veteran of the House, was the first to call on Biden to step aside in the wake of a dismal performance during last week’s presidential debate.
Amid doubts about his ability to win in November’s election, Biden told campaign staffers earlier Wednesday that he’ll stay in the race.
Biden has sought to shore up support for his reelection in calls with congressional Democratic leaders, and is scheduled to meet with more than 20 Democratic governors Wednesday evening, including Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs.
Arizona Democratic Party chair says she still supports Biden
Meanwhile, the chair of the Arizona Democratic Party says she still supports President Joe Biden despite calls for him to end his reelection bid.
State Chair Yolanda Bejarano says she believes he is still the best choice.
"Now with the Supreme Court opinion coming down, it is vital and just so necessary that we let people know and help folks understand just what’s at stake this election cycle," Bejarano said.
Biden is set to meet with Democratic governors tonight, including Arizona’s Governor Katie Hobbs.
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