Americans Divided on Biden's Term Completion, Lawmakers Call for 25th Amendment Invocation

In the wake of President Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, Americans are expressing mixed opinions on whether he should serve out the remainder of his term, while several lawmakers are urging Vice President Kamala Harris to invoke the 25th Amendment due to concerns about his mental competency.

After President Biden made the surprise announcement that he would not seek re-election, voters across the nation voiced varying perspectives on whether he should complete his current term. The sudden decision sparked a debate, with some arguing that his withdrawal from the presidential race casts doubt on his ability to serve effectively as commander-in-chief.

Lawmakers, particularly Republicans, have intensified their calls for Harris to invoke the 25th Amendment, which allows for the removal of a president deemed unfit for office. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) penned a letter to Harris, demanding that she initiate the amendment process, citing Biden's withdrawal from the race as an admission of his incapacity.

Americans Divided on Biden's Term Completion, Lawmakers Call for 25th Amendment Invocation

"Joe Biden has decided he isn't capable of being a candidate; in so doing his admission also means he cannot serve as President," Schmitt asserted. "Therefore, it is in the best immediate interest of the safety of the United States for Joe Biden to resign from office or face removal under the 25th Amendment."

Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) echoed Schmitt's sentiments, announcing her intention to propose a resolution urging Harris to invoke the 25th Amendment. "If Joe Biden does not have the cognitive ability to seek reelection, he does not have the cognitive ability to serve the remainder of his term," Mace stated.

Americans Divided on Biden's Term Completion, Lawmakers Call for 25th Amendment Invocation

Prior to Biden's withdrawal from the race, Senator J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) also suggested that Congress should consider the 25th Amendment if the president decided to suspend his re-election bid. "If Joe Biden can't run for president, he can't serve as president. And if they want to take him down because he's mentally incapable of serving, invoke the 25th Amendment," Vance told Fox News.

However, Vice President Harris has remained tight-lipped on the issue. Despite repeated attempts to elicit her stance, her office has not provided a response, leaving her position on the matter unclear.

Americans Divided on Biden's Term Completion, Lawmakers Call for 25th Amendment Invocation

The invocation of the 25th Amendment is a serious step, as it would effectively transfer the powers of the presidency to the vice president. The process involves a determination by the vice president and a majority of the cabinet that the president is unable to discharge the duties of the office.

If the president disputes the determination, it would trigger a vote by Congress. A two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate would be required to remove the president from office.

Americans Divided on Biden's Term Completion, Lawmakers Call for 25th Amendment Invocation

President Biden's health and cognitive abilities have been the subject of scrutiny and speculation. However, no official diagnosis or determination of his fitness to serve has been made. The White House has maintained that Biden is in good health and capable of fulfilling his duties.

As the debate continues, Americans are weighing in with their opinions. Some expressed support for Biden finishing his term, citing his experience and stability. Others voiced concerns about his mental sharpness and ability to handle the demands of the presidency.

The decision of whether Biden should complete his term or be removed under the 25th Amendment ultimately rests with Vice President Harris and the cabinet. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the future of Biden's presidency and the course of the nation.