As more Democrats are calling for President Joe Biden to step down as the Democratic nominee for President, one prominent representative has thrown her full support behind Biden.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) shared her support on Monday.
“I have spoken to the president over the weekend. I have spoken with him extensively,” Ocasio-Cortez said.
“He made clear then and he has made clear since that he is in this race. The matter is closed. He has reiterated that this morning, he has reiterated that to the public. Joe Biden is our nominee, he is not leaving this race, he is in this race, and I support him,” she said.
Ocasio-Cortez said it is important to focus on the matter at hand — winning the election in the Fall.
“Now, what I think is critically important right now is that we focus on what it takes to win in November because he is running against Donald Trump, who is a man with 34 felony convictions, that has committed 34 felony crimes, and not a single Republican has asked Donald Trump to not be the nominee,” she added.
Kevin Frey, a Washington correspondent for NY1 News, posted Ocasio-Cortez’s announcement on X, formerly Twitter:
Ocasio-Cortez told Biden it’s important to hone in on certain things in order to win the election such as Medicare, social security, and rent relief.
“And if we can do that and continue our work on student loans, secure a ceasefire, and bring those dollars back into investing in public policy, then that’s how we win in November. That’s what I’m committed to,” she said.
Ocasio-Cortez also responded to a reporter’s question about those who doubt Biden’s abilities.
“That is all up to their own individual, you know, determination. I respect everyone’s opinion. But I’m here to make sure we win in November,” Ocasio-Cortez said.
Several Democrats have stepped forward to urge Biden to leave the race after a dismal performance at the first presidential debate June 27.
Major donors have threatened a “DEMbargo” on donations unless Biden steps down.
Disney heiress Abigail Disney said, “If Biden does not step down the Democrats will lose. Of that I am absolutely certain. The consequences for the loss will be genuinely dire.”
