Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has claimed that the Democratic Party forced incumbent U.S. President Joe Biden to exit the presidential race, describing it as a "coup." Trump's remarks came during an election rally in Minnesota on Saturday, where he accused the Democrats of pressuring Biden into stepping down.
"This was really a coup of and by the Democrats," Trump said. "This was a coup of a man that had 14 million votes. He wanted to run. They wouldn't let him run. They treated him horribly. They said to him, we can do it the nice way, or we can do it the hard way. To Joe, he's president."
Trump alleged that the Democrats threatened Biden with the 25th Amendment, which allows for the removal of a president if they are deemed physically incapable of performing their duties. "They said, Joe, we're going to threaten you with the 25th Amendment. You're cognitively and physically a mess. And if you don't get out, we're going to take you out with the 25th Amendment," Trump claimed.Â
The 25th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution was passed by Congress to determine the presidential succession after the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy. It also gives power to the vice president and the Cabinet to remove a president from office if they are deemed physically incapable.
Trump suggested that Biden did not voluntarily decide to step down but was coerced into doing so by his own party. "And he said, 'I'll go.' And then the fake news said, 'Oh, he was so brave.' No, he was forced to leave," Trump continued.
Biden, 81, announced his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential elections on July 20, endorsing Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee. This move came after a series of rapid developments, including a disastrous debate performance in Atlanta on June 27 and a failed assassination attempt on Trump. These events led to a significant decline in Biden's popularity ratings, causing alarm among Democrats and sparking fears of a Trump wave sweeping the nation.
Following Biden's exit and the nomination of Vice President Harris, the Democratic campaign has regained momentum, presenting a formidable challenge to Trump. Harris's nomination has reignited the Democratic campaign, with the party now focusing on countering Trump's influence and securing victory in the upcoming election. The renewed energy within the Democratic ranks suggests a highly competitive race as both parties gear up for the 2024 elections.
Trump's accusations add a dramatic twist to an already tumultuous political landscape. The narrative of a "coup" and forced exit heightens the stakes of the upcoming election, portraying the Democratic Party as willing to take extreme measures to maintain power.Â
Meanwhile, Harris's nomination marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first woman of color to be a major party's presidential nominee. This significant milestone has energized many voters and brought a renewed sense of purpose to the Democratic campaign. Harris's platform is expected to focus on continuing the Biden administration's policies while also addressing pressing issues like healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality.
As the 2024 election season progresses, the accusations, endorsements, and strategic moves by both parties will be closely watched. The outcome of this election will not only determine the next President of the United States but also set the tone for the country's political direction in the years to come. With Trump seeking a return to the White House and Harris aiming to break new ground, the stage is set for a historic and fiercely contested election.
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