Some climate campaigners are increasing pressure on President Joe Biden to withdraw from the US presidential race, fearing that his candidacy might lead to a win for Donald Trump. Activists from the group Climate Defiance are planning a protest outside the Democratic National Committee’s headquarters, advocating for Biden to step down in favor of a candidate they believe has a better chance of defeating Trump.
Michael Greenberg, founder of Climate Defiance, stated, “Nominating Biden is a recipe for electing Trump. For the sake of the climate and our democracy, we need to choose a nominee who can win in November. That person is not Joseph Biden.”
While the environmental movement has been a strong supporter of Biden, recent concerns over his ability to handle the presidency have caused some to reconsider their stance. However, many major environmental groups have refrained from publicly opposing Biden’s candidacy.
Stevie O’Hanlon, communications director for the Sunrise Movement, expressed worries over Biden’s ability to generate enthusiasm among young voters. “What we’re hearing from young people around the country is that excitement about Joe Biden is at a historic low,” O’Hanlon said, emphasizing the importance of defeating Trump for the climate.
Despite calls from some activists, few other organizations have joined in urging Biden to step aside. Groups like the Center for Biological Diversity, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Friends of the Earth Action have either declined to comment or are still weighing their endorsement decisions.
Progressive climate leaders in Congress are also divided. While some, like Representative Rashida Tlaib and Representative Summer Lee, have voiced support for a different nominee, others, including Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders, continue to back Biden.
Keith Ellison, Minnesota’s attorney general and former deputy chair of the DNC, emphasized the importance of supporting Biden to prevent a Trump victory. “Quite honestly, what’s the alternative? The damage that Trump will do to the environment is just incalculable,” Ellison said.
As the debate continues, the call for Biden to withdraw reflects broader concerns about the potential impact of a Trump presidency on climate policies and the environment.
