Sorensen calls for Biden to exit the race for president

By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
Get our mobile app

ROCKFORD — Congressman Eric Sorensen on Thursday called for President Joe Biden to end his campaign and exit the race for president.

Sorensen’s statement came after Biden held a high-stakes news conference in Washington, D.C., where he vowed to stay in the race and tried to prove he’s capable of beating former President Donald Trump in November.

“In 2020, Joe Biden ran for president with the purpose of putting country over party,” Sorensen said. “Today, I am asking him to do that again.”

More news: U.S. Dept. of Energy announces $335M to support Belvidere Assembly Plant’s electric vehicle conversion

Biden, in his news conference, tried to dismiss the idea of another Democrat stepping into the race and starting their campaign from scratch. The 81-year-old also tried to push back on claims his mental fitness has declined with age, although he flubbed in his first response during the news conference by mixing up the name of Vice President Kamala Harris and Trump.

“Look, I wouldn’t have picked Vice President Trump to be vice president if I didn’t think she’s not qualified to be president,” he said.

Biden told reporters he was the most qualified person for the job of president and said he would win in November. “I beat him once, I will beat him again,” Biden said of Trump.

Sorensen was one of 16 House Democrats that has called for Biden to step aside so far, according to CBS News.

Read Sorensen’s full statement below:

“President Joe Biden is a good man who has spent the bulk of his life in service to our country. His work has been devoted to growing the middle class and building opportunity for all people. In 2020, Joe Biden ran for President with the purpose of putting country over party. Today, I am asking him to do that again. 

“It is more important than ever that our neighbors have a candidate for President who will communicate a positive vision for every person in this country. Someone who can demonstrate the strength and wisdom needed to lead us through the worst storms. A leader who will stand up to the present threats against democracy.

“Every day, I remain committed to the people of Central & Northwestern Illinois. I believe our best days are still ahead. And today, I am hopeful President Biden will step aside in his campaign for President. “

This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas