Former U.S. diplomat and President emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, Richard Haass, urges President Biden's circle to convince him to withdraw from the race, citing his age and declining fitness for office.
President emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. diplomat Richard Haass has made a plea to President Biden's handlers, urging them to convince the president to step away from his bid for re-election. Speaking on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" program, Haass argued that Biden's age and declining health raise serious concerns about his ability to effectively serve a second term.
"I really believe that Joe Biden is no longer positioned that he can be a successful president four and a half years from now," Haass stated during the broadcast. He referenced Biden's recent debate performance, which he believes highlighted the president's diminished physical and mental abilities.
Former U.S. Diplomat Pleads for Biden to Step Down as Nominee
Haass, who served as Director of Policy Planning for the U.S. State Department during the George W. Bush administration, believes that Biden's debate performance not only called into question his ability to defeat former President Trump, but also his ability to competently lead the nation for another four and a half years. "He's 81. He's going to be 82 in November. He's going to be 86 if he is re-elected before – while he is still in the Oval Office," Haass noted.
"So when you elect a president, you’re basically buying an option. You’re buying a four-year option," he continued. "Does anyone seriously think that in four and a half years from now, Joe Biden is going to be what he needs to be an effective president?" Haass asked rhetorically.
Former U.S. Diplomat Pleads for Biden to Step Down as Nominee
"As he himself would say, come on, man!" Haass declared. "That’s not going to be the case. And I hate to say it, but we’ve got to say it." He went on to compare Biden's declining mental state to former President Trump's temperament and character, both of which he believes render them unfit for office.
"That is why I think we really need to change. He needs to be urged to step down," Haass added.
Former U.S. Diplomat Pleads for Biden to Step Down as Nominee
Haass's comments come amidst growing concerns among Democrats and political pundits about Biden's fitness to run for a second term. Following his debate with Trump, many have questioned his ability to withstand the rigors of a grueling presidential campaign and the demands of the presidency itself. The White House and Biden campaign have not yet responded to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
