In a controversial move, Aaron Sorkin, the acclaimed creator of The West Wing, has suggested that the Democratic Party nominate Republican Sen. Mitt Romney as its candidate for the upcoming presidential election.

Sorkin's proposal -- made before President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 race -- is aimed at preventing former President Donald Trump from re-entering the White House amid growing concerns about the Democratic Party's chances in November, as Fox News reports.

Addressing Biden's Re-election Challenges

The unusual proposal comes at a critical time for the Democratic Party. President Joe Biden's recent debate performance has led to a wave of criticism and calls for him to step down, which he ultimately did on Sunday.

Despite the growing pressure on Biden, Sorkin noted that no Democrat appeared to be significantly outperforming him in the polls. This dilemma has prompted Sorkin to look outside the party for a viable candidate capable of challenging Trump.

"The problem in the real world is that there isn’t a Democrat who is polling significantly better than Mr. Biden," Sorkin stated at the time. He argued that drastic measures are necessary to prevent Trump from returning to office.

Sorkin's Bold Recommendation

In advocating for Mitt Romney as the Democratic nominee, Sorkin highlighted the symbolic significance of such a move. He argued that nominating a Republican would shift the focus of the election from partisan politics to a unified effort to block Trump's return.

"Nominating Mr. Romney would be putting our money where our mouth is: a clear and powerful demonstration that this election isn’t about what our elections are usually about, but about stopping a deranged man from taking power," Sorkin asserted.

He also cited Romney's refusal to support Trump and his criticisms of the former president's character as a strong foundation for his candidacy. Romney has publicly denounced Trump, particularly in light of Trump's personal conduct and legal controversies.

Potential Unifying Factor

Sorkin envisioned a scenario in which former President Barack Obama would endorse Romney at the Democratic convention, further solidifying the bipartisan effort. "Democrats nominating a Republican" could be the "healing event" everyone wanted after the assassination attempt against Trump," Sorkin suggested, referring to the potential symbolic unity such a nomination could foster.

To further emphasize bipartisanship, Sorkin recommended that Romney announce his Cabinet picks at the convention, which would include members from both parties. He argued that this action would illustrate the Democrats' commitment to putting the country's welfare above partisan politics.

Comparisons to "The West Wing"

Sorkin, known for his popular political drama The West Wing, acknowledged that his proposal has been met with skepticism. His writing staff has likened it to a West Wing fantasy that would never come to fruition.

However, Sorkin defended his idea by pointing out that groundbreaking television often explores the most improbable scenarios. He referenced a former actor from the show, Bradley Whitford, who noted that fictional situations often defy expectations.

"The writing staff would tell me I was about to jump the shark," Sorkin said. "But as Bradley Whitford used to say, 'Isn’t the biggest fantasy on television a mafia boss in therapy? The Democrats need to break the glass and this is a break-glass plan, but it’s more than that. It’s a grand gesture. A sacrifice. It would put a lump in our throats."

Controversy and Criticism

Sorkin's idea has not been universally well-received. Conservatives have expressed strong opposition, drawing attention to the Democrats' previous treatment of Romney during his 2012 presidential campaign. At that time, Sorkin himself lobbied then-President Obama to call Romney a liar during debates.

Moreover, Biden, serving as vice president under Obama, once suggested that Romney would "put y'all back in chains," a remark that further fuels conservative criticisms of the current proposal. Nevertheless, Sorkin remains steadfast in his belief that nominating Romney represents a pragmatic solution to a unique political crisis. He emphasized the importance of character and integrity in presidential candidates, defense that Romney's consistent stance against Trump highlights.

Past Political Fiction and Reality

Sorkin has experience blending the lines between political fiction and reality. He previously penned a fan fiction scenario of President Josiah Bartlet, a character from The West Wing, coaching Obama ahead of debates against Romney. This context brings an added layer of intrigue to his current suggestion.

Sorkin concluded his argument by posing a hypothetical yet thought-provoking question: "What if Bartlet’s opponent had been a dangerous imbecile with an observable psychiatric disorder who related to his supporters on a fourth-grade level and treated the law as something for suckers and poor people? And was a hero to white supremacists?"

Final Thoughts on Sorkin's Proposal

Ultimately, while Sorkin's proposal may seem radical, it reflects a deep concern for the future of American politics. By nominating Mitt Romney, Sorkin believes that Democrats can present a united front against what he views as a significant threat to democracy.

Romney himself has not shied away from criticizing Trump. He has taken a firm stance based on personal character, famously saying, "With President Trump, it’s a matter of personal character... I draw a line and say when someone has been actually found to have been sexually assaulted, that’s something I just won’t cross over in the person I wouldn't want to have as President of the United States."

In conclusion, Sorkin's extraordinary suggestion aims to transcend typical political machinations by addressing a perceived unprecedented danger. His vision of a cross-party alliance, while controversial, underscores the urgency he feels in confronting Trump's potential return to office.