In an unexpected move, Democratic Senator Joe Manchin called on President Joe Biden to end his reelection campaign and "to pass the torch to a new generation." Manchin's comments add to the growing unrest within the Democratic party over Biden's ability to win in the upcoming November elections.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Manchin praised Biden as a "truly patriotic American" who will be remembered for his legacy. However, he argued that the swell of Democrats voicing similar concerns after last month's debate has made it untenable for Biden to continue his campaign.

Manchin, who left the Democratic party earlier this year but continues to caucus with them, explained that several factors influenced his decision. He cited the donor class expressing a desire for a different direction, as well as the difficulties faced by his colleagues in Congress and the states. These factors convinced Manchin that it was time for Biden to step aside and allow new leadership to emerge.

Manchin emphasized that leaving the race now would give Biden the opportunity to address important issues he has prioritized, such as uniting the country, resolving conflicts in Gaza, supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, and demonstrating an orderly transfer of power to the rest of the world.

Concerns about Biden's electoral prospects have been mounting since the last debate, where he appeared at times incoherent and distant. Manchin admitted that while he hasn't personally observed any decline in Biden's mental acuity, he finds it concerning to watch him on the campaign trail.

Despite Manchin's call, Biden has remained steadfast in his commitment to stay in the race, despite increasing pressure from over 35 lawmakers for him to drop out. Representative Ro Khanna, a supporter of Biden, warned that pressuring the president to withdraw could alienate voters and go against the wishes of the Democratic primary electorate.

The potential repercussions of Biden's departure from the race remain uncertain. Some argue that Vice President Kamala Harris would be the natural successor for the nomination, while others advocate for a more open process to benefit the party as a whole. Manchin supported this idea, stating that a healthy competition is necessary.

When asked about Harris's chances, Manchin responded that "the process would show," but he also named Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky and Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania as potential future candidates. Khanna, on the other hand, expressed confidence in Harris, given her current position on the national ticket.

In response to Manchin's call for Biden to step down, a spokesperson for the Biden campaign affirmed that while there are differing opinions within the party, the Democrats will ultimately come together to defeat Donald Trump in November.

The coming days will shed light on whether Biden will heed Manchin's advice or continue his campaign amidst mounting concerns over his ability to secure the nomination and defeat Trump in the upcoming election.