ARKANSAS, USA — While some Arkansas lawmakers have shown support for President Joe Biden after ending his reelection bid, others say the decision should have been made a long time ago.
The Democratic Party of Arkansas (DPA) said it is proud of Biden and his decision.
"Not only for his responsive and selfless decision to step aside but also for his steadfast leadership and historic accomplishments as our president for the past four years," DPA wrote.
Bill Clinton, former president and Arkansas governor, and Hilary Clinton said they are thankful for Biden's service. They also joined Biden in endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the next Democratic candidate.
"We've lived through many ups and downs, but nothing has made us more worried for our country than the threat posed by a second Trump term," the Clintons wrote. "Now is the time to support Kamala Harris and fight with everything we've got to elect her. America's future depends on it."
On a more local level, the chair of the Washington County Democrats is grateful for the work Biden put in and calls his decision the act of a true leader.
"As a world leader, passing on the torch is a sign of great leadership, and for that, I'm very thankful," Lou Sharp said.
She believes the president has done a lot not only for the country, but she said he has also done a lot for the state of Arkansas.
"We're a red state, and yet, starting with the pandemic, he has invested an enormous amount of time and energy into Arkansas, in our infrastructure, and throughout the pandemic," Sharp said.
State Sen. Greg Leding called Biden's decision selfless. Leding's full statement:
"President Biden serves our country with heart, integrity, and a commitment to fighting for everyday Americans. His achievements as president include passing a number of historic, bipartisan pieces of legislation during a time of deep division in Congress. He now caps off a life of selfless public service with one of the most selfless acts of all. I am sincerely grateful to the President, and I wish him and his family only the best. I’m committed to electing a Democratic president who‘ll serve with integrity, steady leadership, and a deep commitment to fighting for everyday Americans."
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders joins the chorus of Republicans who have been urging Biden to step down as a nominee and as president.
"Not fit to run for president, not fit to serve as president," she wrote. "Biden should resign immediately."
Meanwhile, Congressman Steve Womack advises Republicans to put their energy toward former President Donald Trump's campaign. Womack's full statement:
"I’m not surprised by his decision. It was a foregone conclusion. The real question now is who do they turn to? A Harris candidacy is problematic given her ties to Biden and her failure as the Border Czar. Interesting days ahead, for sure, for Democrats. My recommendation to my fellow Republicans is to run hard on the issues facing everyday Americans—securing our border, lowering inflation, and making our country safer. Republicans need to remain united behind President Trump."
Mike Huckabee, Sanders' father and former Arkansas governor, released the following statement:
"Biden bails out saying he's not able to be a candidate. But he thinks he's able to still be president? I truly believe being president is harder than being candidate. Unless he really HASN'T been functioning as president anyway, which isn't the least bit comforting."
"Donald Trump's strength & record of success pushed Biden out. Americans weren’t worried about Biden’s competency, they are worried about how his and the Democrat Party’s failed policies that hurt their families and endangered their lives. President Trump must win for America ... Remember the same Democrats who pushed Biden out are the same ones who keep pushing those failed policies which threaten American families' lives and pocketbooks."
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