Sen. Jon Tester of Montana, a Democrat, called for President Joe Biden to not seek re-election, becoming the second Democratic senator after Peter Welch of Vermont to do so. Tester, who is running for re-election to a vulnerable Senate seat, praised Biden’s presidency but believes it’s time for a new generation. In total, 22 congressional Democrats have called on Biden to step aside. This comes after Tester criticized Biden’s border policies and EPA regulations, expressing doubts about his ability to lead for another four years. Tester informed Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of his decision. Rep. Jim Costa of California also called on Biden to pass the torch, emphasizing the need for unity within the Democratic Party for the upcoming election. The Biden campaign has reiterated the president’s commitment to staying in the race despite calls for him to bow out. Tester’s Republican challenger criticized him for distancing himself from Biden’s perceived shortcomings after previously stating that Biden was “100% with it.” The situation highlights internal divisions within the Democratic Party as they navigate the path to the next election.
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