As the country’s top Democratic leaders urge President Joe Biden to end his reelection campaign, the two men vying for an open congressional seat in Silicon Valley won’t say where they stand — dodging the question the whole country is asking.
State Assemblymember Evan Low and former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo, both running to represent Congressional District 16, have refused to weigh in on Biden, 81, being asked to exit the presidential race by top politicians. In the last 48 hours, Rep. Adam Schiff, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have all urged the president to step aside — many privately warning him that he can’t beat former President Donald Trump. AP News reports Biden campaign officials are saying donors have stopped contributing and even former President Barack Obama has shared concerns about Biden’s candidacy.
The loss of confidence in Biden comes after a disastrous debate performance two weeks ago where he tripped over his words and lost his train of thought, raising questions about his mental and physical capacity.
But when asked if Biden should heed calls to step aside from inside his own party, Liccardo did not answer and Low demurred. Neither would say whether they believe the commander in chief is fit to continue leading the country for another four years — or if he can muster the votes to defeat Trump.
“President Biden’s administration is responsible for the most significant and impactful legislative agendas in American history,” Low told San José Spotlight. “I trust him to make the right decision.”
Liccardo, who did not respond to numerous requests for comment, endorsed Biden in 2020 after his political ally, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, dropped out of the race. Low also endorsed Biden that year.
The Silicon Valley candidates’ decision to remain mum is happening as Biden faces mounting pressure to step aside. A recent AP-NORC poll shows nearly two-thirds of Democrats want Biden to withdraw. The Democratic National Committee also changed its plan to hold a virtual roll call this month to solidify Biden’s nomination, calling into question the party’s faith in the president.
While Biden has said he will remain in the race against Trump, speculation is swirling that top Democrats believe Biden will step down as early as this weekend following pressure from party leaders and members of Congress.
Low and Liccardo are set to face off in November after a controversial recount earlier this year. Election filings show Liccardo is leading in campaign donations.
Contact Lorraine Gabbert at [email protected].
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