Rep. Scholten Calls For President Biden To Step Aside

On Thursday, U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten made a surprising call for President Joe Biden to step aside as the Democratic nominee for the upcoming presidential election.

Scholten, who represents Michigan's Third Congressional District, is the first Democrat from Michigan's congressional delegation to make such a request.

In a statement posted on social media, Scholten praised Biden's achievements but emphasized the need for new leadership.

"For the good of our democracy, I believe it is time for him to step aside from the presidential race and allow a new leader to step up."

Scholten cited concerns from her constituents about Biden's recent debate performance, which she said had shaken their confidence in his leadership.

Scholten's district, which includes Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and Muskegon, has historically leaned Republican but has shown more support for Democrats in recent years.

Scholten herself is the first Democrat to represent the area in Congress since the 1970s.

Despite her call for Biden to withdraw, Scholten stated that she would still support him if he remains in the race.

"Ultimately, this choice belongs to the president and the president alone. I will respect his decision if he chooses to remain in the race, and I will still vote for him."

Scholten joins a growing number of Democratic lawmakers who have expressed doubts about Biden's ability to lead the party to victory in the upcoming election.

Concerns about his age and recent debate performance have fueled these calls.

However, Biden has firmly rejected the idea of stepping down.

The debate over Biden's candidacy comes at a critical time, with the Democratic National Convention just weeks away.

Scholten's announcement adds to the pressure on Biden as he prepares for a campaign rally in Detroit on Friday.

You can read Scholten's full announcement below.