1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

President Biden has dutifully served our nation, but the time has come for him to put country before self and withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. Thursday's debate highlighted his diminished capacity to effectively lead and safeguard American democracy from the authoritarian threat posed by Donald Trump. While Biden achieved notable successes during his first term, he now struggles with the rigors of office and campaigning. His age and declining faculties undermine his ability to forcefully counter Trump's lies and dangerous agenda. For the good of the nation, Biden should make the selfless decision to step aside and support a Democratic candidate better equipped to defeat Trumpism and its perils. Continuing his candidacy jeopardizes the very democratic ideals he has vowed to protect. Patriotism now demands Biden's withdrawal to ensure a strong nominee can emerge and preserve our freedoms.