A Candid Critique from a Democratic Ally
Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) expressed alarm over President Joe Biden’s performance in the recent debate against Donald Trump, offering a more candid critique than other leading Democrats. Speaking to Providence’s 12 News, Whitehouse, who served with Biden in the Senate, said he was “pretty horrified” by the debate, where Biden appeared to struggle against Trump’s relentless attacks.
Concerns About Biden’s Health
“I think like a lot of people I was pretty horrified by the debate,” Whitehouse said. “The blips of President Biden and the barrage of lying from President Trump were not what one would hope for in a presidential debate.” Whitehouse also called for transparency regarding Biden’s health, stating, “I think people want to make sure that this is a campaign that’s ready to go and win, that the president and his team are being candid with us about his condition — that this was a real anomaly and not just the way he is these days.”
Democratic Reactions Vary
Whitehouse’s comments stand out as most leading Democrats have publicly defended Biden or downplayed concerns about his health. However, some, like Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), have acknowledged internal discussions about Biden’s debate performance and its implications. Raskin mentioned “very honest and serious and rigorous conversations” among Democrats post-debate.
Calls for a Campaign Reassessment
There are also growing calls within the Democratic Party for Biden to avoid another debate with Trump in September. Some Democrats have blamed Biden’s family for not being more forthcoming about his condition.
A Potential Turning Point for the Campaign
Despite his critique, Whitehouse sees a silver lining in the post-debate fallout. “I’ve been critical of the campaign all along, so the upside is that this could be the jolt that they need to make a more compelling case against Donald Trump and for President Biden and the goals Democrats want to achieve,” he said.
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