In an escalating political move, Tennessee Representative Andy Ogles has formally requested Vice President Kamala Harris to consider removing President Joe Biden from office.
Rep. Ogles cited concerns over Biden's health as the primary reason for this unprecedented call, Fox News reported.
Using the mechanisms provided by the 25th Amendment, Ogles argued that President Biden's "declining health" rendered him unfit to serve. The Amendment allows the vice president, backed by a majority of executive officials, to declare a sitting president unable to fulfill presidential duties.
President Biden recently announced his withdrawal from the upcoming 2024 presidential race following a COVID-19 diagnosis and subsequent isolation in Delaware. Contradictory statements from the White House and Biden's family have surfaced, centered on whether his health influenced his decision not to seek re-election.
In his February 2024 report regarding Biden's handling of classified documents post-vice presidency, Special Counsel Robert Hur described him as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory," though criminal charges were not recommended.
During his announcement about stepping down from the presidential race, Biden endorsed Vice President Harris as the next Democratic nominee, signaling party continuity despite the controversies.
Rep. Ogles' letter to VP Harris was forthright in expressing concerns about the president's capability to lead the nation effectively. "He is ill-equipped to handle the challenges of the modern Presidency, and if he is unable or unwilling to resign, we urge you to act now," Ogles stated in his correspondence.
Despite the concerns raised by Ogles, Vice President Harris has publicly stated her belief in President Biden's capability to continue his duties effectively. This contrasts the skepticism certain sections of the media and political figures echo.
The discussion about Biden's mental and physical fitness isn't new. Critics have questioned his ability to govern throughout his term, especially highlighted during debates and public appearances.
Rep. Andy Ogles, in an interview with Fox News Digital, emphasized, "Biden exited the race 'because he isn't up for the job of president, and everyone in America knows it.'" Despite these bold claims, administration officials continue to assert that Biden's mental fitness is sound, denying any speculations about serious ailments such as dementia or Parkinson's.
"Whether you were aware of Mr. Biden's declining health throughout his tenure, the implications of allowing him to remain in his current capacity are extraordinary. Barring Mr. Biden's willingness to resign, we urge you to invoke the 25th Amendment and force the issue immediately," Rep. Ogles stated in his letter to Vice President Harris.
The ongoing discussion about the president's health highlights a broader debate on age and leadership in U.S. politics. While Rep. Ogles calls for immediate action from Vice President Harris, the final decision involves complex constitutional and political considerations.
As President Biden steps back and endorses VP Harris for the presidency, the political landscape faces significant changes. This situation underscores the intricate relationship between health, politics, and leadership.
The call for invoking the 25th Amendment and Biden’s endorsement of Harris set the stage for a critical evaluation of leadership standards and presidential capability ahead of the next election cycle.
