Today, we're diving into some intriguing political news. Senator Jon Tester from Montana has made a bold move by calling on President Biden to step out of the presidential race. This announcement comes with the support of Majority Leader Chuck Schumer from New York, making Tester the second Senate Democrat to suggest such a course of action.
Senator Tester expressed his thoughts in a statement to Fox News Digital, emphasizing his commitment to doing what is best for Montana. He mentioned his willingness to support President Biden when it benefited Montana and his readiness to oppose him when necessary.
Tester’s statement highlighted his belief that, despite appreciating Biden's dedication to public service, the President should not seek another term.
Before going public with his stance, Tester informed Majority Leader Schumer, who encouraged him to act according to his judgment. This move is particularly noteworthy given that Tester is engaged in one of the most competitive Senate races for 2024 in a state that has previously supported former President Trump.
The Cook Political Report, a non-partisan political handicapper, rates Tester’s race as a "Toss Up," alongside other tight races in Ohio, Nevada, and Michigan. Tester will be competing against former Navy SEAL Tim Sheehy, the Republican Senate candidate from Montana, in November.
Despite the competitive nature of the race, Tester confidently told Fox News Digital that his internal polling showed him leading, although he chose not to disclose the specific data. He dismissed the notion of his race being in a precarious position.
Senator Peter Welch from Vermont was the first Senate Democrat to call on Biden to withdraw, advocating for the country’s best interest in a Washington Post op-ed. Tester joins a growing list of Congressional Democrats, totaling 22, who have urged Biden to step down. This group includes notable names like Reps. Adam Schiff from California, Earl Blumenauer from Oregon, and others from various states.
Recently, Senate Democrats held a special meeting with senior Biden campaign advisers at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. Interestingly, Tester did not attend this meeting. Instead, he was engaged with aerospace and defense company Northrop Grumman, discussing the "Sentinel project," linked to the U.S. Air Force’s LGM-35A Sentinel weapon system.
Following this meeting, some Democratic senators expressed mixed feelings. Senator Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut noted that while some concerns were addressed, others had deepened.