24 former Dem lawmakers to Biden: Allow an open convention

A group of two dozen former House Democrats has sent a letter to President Joe Biden calling for him to step aside to prevent a GOP takeover of Washington. Instead, they want him to allow for an “open convention” this summer to decide the 2024 ticket.

In their letter, the 24 Democrats — which include former House members and one former senator — make clear that they do not doubt Biden’s “extraordinary record.” But they warn that if the president stays on the ballot, it would mean the party not only loses the White House, but would decimate their ranks in Congress.

“This leads us to a regretful conclusion. President Biden would best serve the nation he loves by releasing the convention delegates who are pledged to nominate him for a second term. His decision to do so would mean an open convention in August. We ask him to make that decision.” according to the letter, which was obtained by POLITICO.

The letter includes several members who served for over two decades each, including Reps. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.), Jim Moran (D-Va.), Jim McDermott (D-Wash.), Phil Sharp (D-Ind.) and John LaFalce (D-N.Y.). One is also a former senator, Sen. Tim Wirth of Colorado.

“While time is short, that does not justify inaction or complacency,” they wrote. The message, they said, is “difficult but necessary.”

Without action, they warn, the down-ballot effects could be devastating for members of Congress — and even state legislatures. That’s particularly dangerous, they said, if former President Donald Trump were to win the election.

If Trump wins, they wrote: “The Democrats need at least one house of Congress to protect our liberty and the rule of law from total GOP control of the federal government.”

Former Rep. David Skaggs (D-Col.), who organized the effort, declined to speak further about the letter, saying it speaks for itself.

Lauren Gardner contributed to this report.