Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) suggested on Wednesday that former President Donald Trump should consider stepping down from the presidential race following his performance in Tuesday night’s debate.

Despite Trump’s insistence that he performed well in his clash with Harris, polls indicated that Vice President Kamala Harris was seen by some as the technical winner of the debate, and Moskowitz described Trump's appearance as “disastrous and hard to watch,” as Fox News reports.

Moskowitz released a statement titled "Trump’s ability to continue campaign," in which he shared his concerns over Trump’s standing in the race.

The Florida Democrat’s comments come on the heels of dramatic reactions from the public and pundits after President Joe Biden's clash with Trump earlier in the year, which eventually led Biden to endorse Harris.

Harris Declared Debate Winner in Polls

A number of polls conducted after the debate overwhelmingly favored Harris' performance. According to a CNN poll, 63% of viewers believed that Harris won the debate, while only 37% felt that Trump emerged victorious.

The sharp contrast in poll numbers has fueled discussions -- at least on the left -- about Trump’s viability as the GOP's standard-bearer.

While Moskowitz was vocal about his disapproval of Trump’s performance, Republicans did not express widespread shock or concern following the debate. This has drawn attention to the split in reactions between different parties.

Moskowitz Calls for Trump to Reflect

Moskowitz suggested that Trump take time to reflect on his future in the race. “If we are being honest, last night’s debate performance by former President Donald Trump was disastrous and hard to watch,” he said.

“I believe now is the time for the former President to have those difficult conversations about whether or not he should continue serving as the Republican Party’s nominee for President. For now, I want to give him the space to meet with his family and make that decision," he added.

The congressman’s call for Trump to consider stepping aside mirrors the sentiment directed at President Biden after his July debate performance, which resulted in him endorsing Harris. Moskowitz seems to imply that Trump may face a similar crossroads.

Trump Defends Debate Performance

In response to the critique of his debate appearance, Trump appeared on Fox News' Hannity to defend his performance. He claimed that his debate showing was one of his best ever, stating, "I thought it was really good. We had three against one, but I anticipated it." Trump went on to criticize the debate’s moderators, David Muir and Linsey Davis of ABC News, accusing them of bias.

While Trump asserted confidence in his own performance, his team was less diplomatic in their response to Moskowitz’s comments. Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung issued a blunt and expletive-laden statement, calling Moskowitz a "f---ing moron."

Discussion of Possible Second Debate

The debate outcome has also sparked talk of a potential rematch. On Hannity, Sean Hannity asked Trump about Harris' campaign push for a second debate in October. Fox News has formally extended an invitation for the event. However, Trump dismissed the idea, comparing Harris’ request to a losing fighter seeking a rematch. "She wants it because she lost," Trump remarked. "But if you won the debate, I sort of think maybe I shouldn't do it."

According to Trump, agreeing to a second debate would imply that the first result was in doubt. He expressed skepticism about engaging in another debate, framing Harris’ request as a sign of defeat on her part.

Republicans React

Despite the critical reception of Trump’s debate performance, there has been little sign of panic from within the Republican Party. Unlike Biden's endorsement of Harris after his own debate stumble, Trump continues to enjoy solid backing from key Republican figures. The lack of widespread concern suggests that Trump’s grip on the party remains strong, even as polls show a clear victory for Harris in the debate.

Moskowitz’s comments stand out as a rare critique from a Democrat on the national stage, pushing Trump to reconsider his future in the race. Whether these remarks will resonate within the Republican Party remains to be seen.

Conclusion

Rep. Jared Moskowitz’s suggestion that Trump consider withdrawing from the presidential race has drawn attention following what was widely viewed as a difficult debate performance for the former president.

Republicans, however, seem largely unconcerned, as Trump maintains his support within the party. The conversation now turns to whether a second debate will take place, though Trump has expressed hesitancy about participating in another on-stage clash.