Sen. Eric Schmitt Urges Use Of 25th Amendment to Remove Biden from Office
Missouri Republican Sen. Eric Schmitt on Monday called for the invocation of constitutional provisions to remove President Joe Biden from office.
Sen. Schmitt's suggestion that the 25th Amendment should be invoked follows Biden's weekend announcement that he would not seek re-election, leading to Vice President Kamala Harris receiving substantial support from prominent Democratic figures, as the Post Millennial reports.
The lawmaker made his appeal public through a letter he posted online on July 21. In this letter, he detailed his reasons for why he believes President Biden is unfit to continue serving as commander in chief.
President Biden's decision to withdraw from the presidential race came after intense pressure from within his own party. For weeks, Democratic Party elites had been urging him to reconsider his candidacy following a challenging first presidential debate against former President Donald Trump. Their concerns culminated in his formal announcement on Sunday.
Schmitt Questions Biden's Capability
Schmitt's letter pointed to Biden's health as a key factor influencing his call for the implementation of the 25th Amendment. The senator questioned the president's ability to effectively discharge the powers and duties of his office.
"If President Biden is willing to admit he is unable to continue to stand as the Democratic Party nominee for President after the primary process due to his health, he is unable to continue to serve as President until January 20, 2025," Schmitt wrote. He emphasized the urgency and necessity of addressing this issue for the nation's welfare.
Biden Endorses Kamala Harris
In a significant political development, President Biden endorsed Harris for the Democratic nomination soon after announcing his own departure from the race.
Harris has since garnered extensive support from influential members of the Democratic Party. California Gov. Gavin Newsom is among the major figures who have publicly endorsed her candidacy, reinforcing her position as the leading contender for the Democratic nomination.
No notable challengers have emerged to oppose Harris for the nomination. While there was initial speculation about Sen. Joe Manchin possibly entering the race, he has made it clear that he will not re-register as a Democrat to do so, thereby ruling out his potential candidacy.
Biden's Recent Health Concerns
Biden's withdrawal from the race and Schmitt's subsequent call for his removal from office come on the heels of the President's recent health issues. Biden was diagnosed with COVID-19 last week and remained out of public view for several days.
Schmitt seized upon Biden's health status in his letter, asserting that the president's current state made it impossible for him to fulfill the responsibilities of his office effectively. "President Biden is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, including, but not limited to, his ability to serve as the Commander in Chief of our armed forces," Schmitt stated.
Political Repercussions and Future Implications
This political controversy has significant implications for the future of the Democratic Party and the upcoming presidential election. With Biden's formal exit from the race, the party's focus has shifted to rallying around Harris as their candidate.
Biden's endorsement of Harris is seen as a strategic move to unify the party and consolidate support behind a singular candidate. As Harris embarks on her campaign, the backing of high-profile Democrats like Newsom further strengthens her position.
Schmitt's call for the invocation of the 25th Amendment underscores the growing tensions and divisions in the political landscape. The senator's letter echoes the sentiments of those questioning Biden's ability to continue leading the country.
Conclusion
Sen. Eric Schmitt's call for President Joe Biden's removal from office via the 25th Amendment marks a significant moment in the current political climate.
Following Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as the presumptive Democratic nominee.
Schmitt's concerns about Biden's health and capacity to serve have sparked a broader debate, even as Democratic leaders rally around Harris' campaign.
The coming months will undoubtedly see further developments as the nation prepares for the next presidential election.