Mike Pushkin issues statement on President Biden’s decision

West Virginia Democratic Rep. Mike Pushkin stands outside the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, W.Va. on April 1, 2022. (AP Photo/Leah Willingham)

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WBOY) — West Virginia Democratic Party Chairman Mike Pushkin has released a statement responding to President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race.

In the press release, Pushkin states:

President Joe Biden’s decision to step back from his reelection campaign demonstrates a level of integrity and respect for democracy that is all too rare in today’s political climate. Some leaders, once in power, will do anything to preserve it, including ignoring election results, concocting fraudulent schemes, bribing others to violate their oaths of office, and ignoring the Constitution. President Biden has done none of these things. He has consistently upheld the values ​​and principles that are the foundation of our great nation.

With this decision, we can set aside these distractions and focus on the very real threat that the re-election of former President Donald Trump would pose to our country and the world. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and committed to preserving our democracy and protecting the future for all Americans.

President Biden’s decision comes after several Democrats called on him to withdraw from the race, including former Democrat (now independent) Sen. Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), who said Sunday, “I’ve made the decision with a heavy heart, and I think it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation.”

Biden said in a letter on X (formerly Twitter) that he will address the nation later in the week and that he has endorsed Vice President Harris as the Democratic nominee.