Joe Manchin calls for Biden to 'pass the torch' and quit presidential race

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin appeared on CNN’s State of the Union with Jake Tapper, where he expressed his belief that President Joe Biden should step aside for the upcoming presidential election. 

When asked by Tapper whether Biden should run for re-election, Manchin reflected on Biden's recent debate performance and his colleagues' and donors' opinions. He ultimately concluded that Biden should finish his term but not seek re-election.

“I came to the decision with a heavy heart that it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation,” Manchin said.

Manchin advocated for an "open process" to determine Biden's replacement as the Democratic nominee. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also endorsed this strategy. The DNC, however, has moved ahead with plans to nominate Biden virtually before the August DNC, preventing a floor debate on who should lead.

Manchin suggested he is "partial to governors," specifically mentioning Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as potential candidates.

The senator also claimed that he has not witnessed anything during his personal interactions with Biden that would make him question the president’s mental acuity. However, he did admit that "it's concerning when you watch him" on the campaign trail.

Manchin, who left the Democratic Party in May and has previously teased the idea of running himself, emphasized his support for new leadership. "I want to support a new generation; I think it's time," he said.

Calls for Biden to step down have grown from private discussions to public demands, with Manchin joining other supporters in urging Biden to “pass the torch.” This sentiment was echoed by Democratic protesters outside the White House on Saturday, who carried signs with the same message and called for Biden to step aside to give the Democratic Party the best chance of defeating frontrunner Donald Trump.