Should Joe Biden step down after Harris ‘Trump’ and Zelensky ‘Putin’ gaffes? Join The Independent Debate

Your support helps us to tell the story

Support Now

Find out moreClose

In my reporting on women's reproductive rights, I've witnessed the critical role that independent journalism plays in protecting freedoms and informing the public.

Your support allows us to keep these vital issues in the spotlight. Without your help, we wouldn't be able to fight for truth and justice.

Every contribution ensures that we can continue to report on the stories that impact lives

Kelly Rissman

US News Reporter

President Joe Biden is under growing pressure from Democratic officials to end his re-election campaign – and we want to know if you think this is the right move.

At a high-stakes press conference on Thursday, Biden mistakenly referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as “Vice President Trump”. Moments earlier, he introduced Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky as “president Putin”.

The slips came as Biden, 81, faces intense scrutiny over his fitness for office and viability against Republican rival Donald Trump.

Arriving on stage, Biden aimed to reassure both party officials and voters of his capability to campaign effectively over the next four months. But, addressing a series of questions, Biden asserted: “I wouldn’t have picked Vice President Trump if she’s not qualified to be president,” before correcting his error.

When asked if he would consider stepping down if polling showed Harris had a better chance against Trump, Biden whispered, “No one’s saying that.”

Biden remained defiant about his candidacy, citing his track record and international accomplishments, especially highlighted during the recent NATO summit.

“I’m the most qualified person to beat Trump. I beat him once, I’ll beat him again,” he stated.

But we want to know what you think. Is Biden best placed to run in November? Should Harris take his place?

Share your thoughts by adding them in the comments — we’ll highlight the most insightful ones as they come in.

You can also have your say in the poll below:

All you have to do is sign up and register your details — then you can take part in the discussion. You can also sign up by clicking ‘log in’ on the top right-hand corner of the screen.

Make sure you adhere to our community guidelines, which can be found here. For a full guide on how to comment click here.

Join the conversation with other Independent readers below.