Former Harlem Congressman Charles Rangel, aged 94, expressed concerns about President Biden's performance in the recent debate, suggesting that Biden may belong in a nursing home rather than the White House. Rangel, who served in Congress from 1971 to 2017, was particularly critical of both candidates' debate performances, highlighting Biden's perceived confusion and Trump's lack of respect for truth and morality.
Rangel indicated that he would not object to both candidates undergoing cognitive tests to assess their fitness for office. He emphasized the importance of considering the candidates' abilities to lead effectively over the next four years, especially in light of Biden's shaky debate performance.
Despite his criticisms, Rangel acknowledged that Biden showed improvement in his public appearances following the debate, commending his articulateness and performance on the stump. However, Rangel also noted concerns raised by voters about Trump's legal troubles, including the possibility of prison time related to the Stormy Daniels hush money case.
Rangel highlighted the partisan nature of American politics, suggesting that voters in most states tend to support their party's nominee regardless of flaws. He pointed out that the election outcome often hinges on the results in seven battleground states, emphasizing the significance of each candidate's performance and public perception.
While some voices within the Democratic Party have called for Biden to step aside for the good of the party and the country, Rangel expressed hesitancy in abandoning Biden, citing his recent strong public appearances. Rangel's own experience with health challenges in his later years in Congress led him to reflect on the importance of both physical and mental fitness in political leadership.
