Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., acknowledged on Sunday that he had doubts about President Joe Biden’s ability to defeat former President Trump because of his poor debate performance late last month.
While Schiff praised Biden’s accomplishments as president in an interview with “Meet the Press,” he told NBC News anchor Kristen Welker that his age is a major factor in the presidential race and that he One should really consider whether running for office is the best option.
“But I think the performance on the debate stage rightfully raised questions among the American people about the president’s ability to defeat Donald Trump,” Schiff, who is running for Senate, told Welker.
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Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., told “Meet the Press” that President Biden’s debate performance raised questions about his ability to win reelection.
Schiff is the latest Democratic lawmaker to question whether Biden should run for re-election after his debate performance, prompting many in the party and the media to acknowledge that the president’s cognitive abilities are a serious weakness that could cost him a second term.
Several of Schiff’s colleagues have called on Biden to end his re-election campaign, although the congressman stopped short of supporting the move, insisting it was Biden’s decision.
Welker asked the Democrat: “Based on what you’ve seen, do you think he’s still the strongest candidate to defeat former President Trump?”
“Ultimately, this is a decision that President Biden must make and a decision that President Biden alone makes,” Schiff responded, continuing to tout the accomplishments of the president’s first term.
“But what I will say is, he’s been an extraordinary president. He’s created millions of jobs. He’s expanded and strengthened our NATO alliance. He’s brought back manufacturing to this country. He’s launched a campaign against the United States. He has done more in one term than most presidents do, no matter how many terms they serve.
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President Joe Biden walks off the stage during the CNN presidential debate at the CNN studio on June 27, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Schiff went on to say that the race between Biden and Trump “shouldn’t be any closer” given the former’s accomplishments and the latter’s “terrible record,” but acknowledged “there’s only one reason for that, and that’s the age of the president.”
Schiff again declined to endorse whether Biden should continue running, instead saying the president should work to find the best answer on his own. It may be to quit, or it may be to stay.
“What I would advise the president is, seek the input of people you trust. He’s obviously talked to his family about this, which is important, but he should look for people who maintain some distance and objectivity. He should look for people who don’t Supported polling organizations.
Welker again asked Schiff his opinion on Biden’s ability to defeat Trump, and Schiff reiterated that it was Biden’s decision and he would make the best decision.
“I think if the president takes the time to consult with people and be open about it, he will do what Joe Biden has always done, which is make the best decision,” he repeated.
The White House and the Biden campaign did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s requests for comment on Schiff’s remarks.
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