Hawaii Gov. Josh Green announced that President Joe Biden might soon decide whether or not to end his 2024 presidential campaign. After meeting with Biden and other Democratic governors, Green suggested that if Biden opts out, Vice President Kamala Harris might be his chosen successor.
Concerns about Biden’s age and cognitive abilities have grown, especially after a difficult debate last month. While some Democrats are pushing for Biden to reconsider his campaign, he points to strong support from party officials, particularly governors.
“If the president feels he can’t win or receives advice to step down, he will,” Green stated. He added that Biden’s decision is imminent, with pressure from Congress returning soon.
Green, who was a physician before becoming governor, compared Biden’s wisdom and experience to that of respected family elders. “I stand by the president until he says otherwise,” Green affirmed.
Biden remains determined to run despite the rising speculation about his potential withdrawal. Green noted that both Biden and former President Donald Trump are prone to bad days but emphasized the importance of temperament over age. “We need someone steady with the nuclear codes, not someone who tweets aggressively,” Green remarked.
Green highlighted that Biden should have the opportunity to nominate his replacement if he steps down. “The Democratic Party would likely welcome Harris as his choice,” he said, citing her credentials as a former California attorney general and a significant African American leader.
In a meeting with governors, Biden joked about his health, saying everything was fine except for his brain, a comment Green insisted was taken out of context. “It was a self-deprecating joke, showing his cognitive function is intact,” Green explained. The meeting was candid and unscripted, with governors expressing various opinions.
The nation awaits Biden’s decision, which could significantly shape the Democratic ticket for 2024.
