In a recent interview, Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) of Michigan expressed her disapproval of being suggested as President Biden’s successor should he withdraw from the presidential race.
In the event that Biden decides not to run for reelection, the governor has been mentioned highly as a potential Democratic nominee.
“It’s a distraction more than anything. I don’t like seeing my name in articles like that because I’m totally focused on governing and campaigning for the ticket.” she said in a recent statement to the Associated Press.
“I think everyone has acknowledged it was not his finest 90 minutes. That said, this is a man I’ve known for a long time and has decades of public service receipts that he’s delivered to people.” he continued.
Following a dismal debate performance last month, a growing number of detractors have requested that he stand aside, raising questions about his age and ability to win an election.
Whitmer defended the president in the interview despite acknowledging criticism of Biden’s performance in the debate.
In addition to the five Democrats who have publicly urged Biden to withdraw from the campaign, four more senior members of the House made the same request on a Sunday leadership call.
Rejecting the appeals, the president has pledged to continue running and show the electorate how capable he is.
[READ MORE: Biden Defiantly Rejects Democrats’ Calls for Him to Quit Race]
