Hastings, a well-known Democratic contributor, stated in an email published by the New York Times that Biden should withdraw as the presidential contender in order to make room for someone who can unseat outgoing President Donald Trump.
“Biden needs to step aside to allow a vigorous Democratic leader to beat Trump and keep us safe and prosperous,” Hastings stated.
Hastings and his spouse Patty Quillin have made significant contributions to the Democratic Party, especially in California. Hastings gave almost $3 million in 2021 to a group established to thwart a recall attempt against California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat.
Quillin contributed to a left-wing organization in 2022 along with many others in an effort to prevent liberal San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin from being recalled.
After a poor showing in his first debate against Trump, a number of media sites and even some Democratic leaders have called for Biden to be replaced in the presidential contest. Among them was the editorial board of the News, which referred to Biden as a “reckless gamble.”
