As US President Joe Biden continues to make significant gaffes, Democrats are increasingly calling for him to withdraw from the presidential race over concerns about his mental health and stamina. 

 

This follows recent incidents where Biden mistakenly introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as Russian President Vladimir Putin. Just hours later, he referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as Republican rival Donald Trump.

 

Earlier on Thursday, Biden made a notable error during the NATO summit in Washington, introducing Zelensky as the Russian president before quickly correcting himself. He stated, "Now, I’ll turn the floor over to the President of Ukraine, who shows great courage and determination. Ladies and gentlemen, here’s President Putin," before clarifying that Zelensky "will defeat President Putin."

 

When asked if Harris could defeat Trump if he chose not to run again, Biden defended her qualifications, stating, "I wouldn’t have chosen Vice President Trump to be vice president if I didn’t believe she was qualified to be president."

 

This marked Biden's first press conference since a disastrous debate against Trump, an event critical to his presidential campaign's future.

 

Republican candidate Donald Trump mocked Biden's slip during the press conference, posting on Truth Social, "Good job, Joe!" 

 

Biden's recent mistakes have led to increased pressure from within the Democratic Party, with 17 members of Congress publicly urging him to end his reelection campaign. Many lawmakers voiced concerns about his candidacy.

 

Senator Peter Welch from Vermont stated, "For the good of the country, I urge President Biden to withdraw from the race," becoming the first Democratic senator to call for his resignation.

 

Representative Eric Sorensen from Illinois emphasized the need for a candidate who offers a positive vision, hoping Biden will step aside. 

 

Similarly, Representative Scott Peters from California urged Biden to withdraw, stating, "The stakes are high, and we are heading down a losing path. My conscience requires me to prioritize loyalty to the country and democracy over personal allegiance."