Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has become the first sitting House Democrat to publicly call for President Joe Biden's resignation, citing concerns over his health and decision-making abilities.

This move by the Democratic lawmaker adds to the growing number of fellow party members urging Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race, as the Daily Mail reports.

Rep. Perez, a Democrat from Washington, voiced her doubts following what she described as a disappointing debate performance by Biden two weeks ago. She questioned Biden's health and whether he is capable of making crucial decisions independently or if unelected advisors are steering his administration.

"I have 'doubt' about his 'health and fitness to do the job.' Americans deserve to feel their president is fit enough to do the job," Perez said. She emphasized that the lack of confidence in Biden's leadership needs resolution, urging him to prioritize the national interest.

Growing Concerns About Biden’s Leadership

Perez's statement is the strongest among roughly 14 Democrats who have expressed similar sentiments recently. Questions about Biden's leadership were amplified on Capitol Hill after his debate against former President Donald Trump raised concerns about potential negative impacts on down-ballot Democrats.

In an attempt to address these concerns, Biden's campaign advisors, including Mike Donilon, Steve Ricchetti, and campaign Chair Jen O’Malley Dillon, held an urgent meeting with Democrat senators. Instead of resolving doubts, lawmakers left with more questions about Biden's political future.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) emerged from the meeting with mixed feelings, stating, "Some of my concerns are allayed, some others have been deepened." He emphasized the need for more data and analytics to chart a clear path to success.

Calls for Public Address on Concerns

Blumenthal remarked on the significance of addressing the public's concerns. "We need more data, more analytics to allay my concerns. More important than my concerns are the questions that have been raised by the American people," he mentioned.

The senator also noted that Biden must clearly differentiate himself from Trump and demonstrate the potential risks Trump poses to American democracy. "I think Joe Biden has to take the fight to Donald Trump and allay the people's concerns," he added. Blumenthal highlighted the pending press conference as a crucial moment.

Similarly, Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) mentioned a growing sense of "nervousness" about the Democratic ticket during a recent fundraiser. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi weighed in, stressing that Biden should concentrate on his Thursday night press conference at the 2024 NATO Summit.

Press Conference as a Potential Turning Point

Biden has demonstrated his intent to continue his campaign by sending a letter to Democrats, signaling his determination to stay in the race despite the growing concerns. However, Pelosi hinted that Biden should perhaps hold off on making any final decisions until after the press conference.

Reports suggest that additional Democrats might voice their opposition to Biden after his address, aiming not to jeopardize his foreign relations strategies. Blumenthal reinforced this view, noting, "The press conference will potentially be a turning point. But it has to be more than just one press conference."

As the debate over Biden's future intensifies, the Democratic Party finds itself at a crossroads. On one side, there is mounting pressure from within to seek new leadership, while on the other, there is a desire to maintain stability and continuity through the NATO Summit and beyond.

Democratic Concerns and Moving Forward

The unfolding scenario underscores a broader crisis of confidence within the Democratic Party, illustrating a divide on how best to approach the upcoming election. Through this period of scrutiny, Biden must confront and address the apprehensions held by both party members and the general public.

In summarizing the sentiments, Perez articulated the underlying issue clearly, stating, "The crisis of confidence in the president’s leadership needs to come to an end. The president should do what he knows is right for the country and put the national interest first."

As the political landscape continues to shift, all eyes will be on Biden's upcoming press conference and its potential impact on his campaign's trajectory.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rep. Perez's call for Biden’s resignation marks a significant moment, reflecting broader unease within the Democratic Party about his viability as the 2024 candidate.

With key meetings failing to assuage concerns, the Thursday press conference loomed as a potential turning point.

The Democratic Party faces crucial decisions ahead as it grapples with both internal dynamics and the broader fight against the Republicans.