Sen. Martin Heinrich of New Mexico on Friday became the third Democratic senator to call on President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, joining 26 others.
Heinrich joined his colleagues in calling for the 81-year-old president to “pass the baton” in a statement, but did not immediately suggest whether Vice President Kamala Harris or another nominee should succeed Biden.
“Joe Biden is one of the greatest presidents in modern history,” Heinrich said, “but this moment in our nation’s history requires a focus that is bigger than one person.”
“While the decision to withdraw from the campaign was President Biden’s alone, I believe it is best for our country if he steps aside,” he added. “By passing the baton, he will uphold his legacy as one of our nation’s great leaders and ensure that we all unite behind the candidate who can best defeat Donald Trump and protect the future of our democracy.”
Sens. Peter Welch, D-Vermont, and Jon Tester, D-Montana, joined 24 House Democrats in calling for Biden to resign. Four of the House Democrats issued a statement on Friday calling for the president to resign.
