New York Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado calls on President Biden to step aside

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — New York Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado called on President Joe Biden to end his presidential campaign and allow new leadership to step up in the wake of what critics have considered his concerning performance in the recent debate.

"I join with millions of Americans - including everyday New Yorkers from all walks of life - who are expressing legitimate concerns about President Biden's ability to wage a successful campaign against Trump," Delgado posted Wednesday. "I believe we should move forward with a nominee capable of reinvigorating and re-energizing Americans who are determined to protect our democracy, and who want to do so with a candidate they believe can win."

Delgado's statement breaks with the sentiments of Gov. Kathy Hochul, who pledged her support to Biden after a meeting between the president and a group of Democratic governors last week.

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans also came out of a virtual meeting between Biden and other mayors this week expressing support for Biden's continued candidacy.

"The President was clear eyed about the future and clearly articulated his vision to the mayors in attendance," Evans said. "President Biden support for the nation’s cities can not be understated and I look forward to continuing to support him.”

Congressman Joe Morelle was among a number of prominent Democratic lawmakers who reportedly expressed a desire for President Biden to step aside during a phone call earlier this week.

Statement from New York Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado

President Biden deserves our eternal gratitude for what he has accomplished. By defeating Donald Trump in 2020, and leading our nation's recovery out of the pandemic, he has helped to restore faith in America both at home and abroad. I have immense respect and admiration for his deep and abiding commitment to the American people and our founding democratic ideals. He can add to his legacy. showing his strength and grace, by ending his campaign and making room for a new leader.

There is no greater threat to our democracy than former President Donald Trump. He must be defeated. That is why I join with millions of Americans - including everyday New Yorkers from all walks of life - who are expressing legitimate concerns about President Biden's ability to wage a successful campaign against Trump. Sustaining our collective belief in democracy and trust in our democratic institutions requires those of us in elected office to be straight with the American people. Dismissing these voices out of hand is misguided and dangerous.

I believe we should move forward with a nominee capable of reinvigorating and re-energizing Americans who are determined to protect our democracy, and who want to do so with a candidate they believe can win.