NORFOLK, Va. — People across the nation are sounding off on President Joe Biden’s decision to pull out of the upcoming presidential election.
Biden announced he is not seeking reelection Sunday afternoon. Hampton Roads residents 13News Now spoke to had mixed opinions on the decision. Some voters said they were surprised to hear the news.
“I was really kind of upset and disappointed," Norfolk resident Alicia Mitchell said.
“I was shocked. I was very shocked because I am a Biden supporter, and I really wanted him to continue his race for president," Norfolk resident William Boyden said.
But others said they expected this to happen.
“Long overdue for his health," said Portsmouth resident Justin Hinga.
“Not shocked at all that he stepped down," said Norfolk resident Danyel Boatwright.
Several people 13News Now spoke with pin the debate with former President Donald Trump as the turning point for voters, and their confidence in Biden’s ability to serve a second term.
“I think it was a very good choice for him to step down. If you watch the Trump and Biden debate... [Biden} was having a hard time speaking," Boatwright said.
“If you watched critically, you could see [Biden's] downturn for years," Hinga echoed.
With the election just a couple of months away, some voters said they think this could give former President Donald Trump an advantage.
“It’s going to be kind of hard, but right now, whoever they bring up against Trump, Trump is still going to win," Mitchell said.
When it comes to Biden throwing his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, people had mixed opinions on that, too.
“I think she’s a great candidate," Boyden said.
“Definitely think that’s a big mistake," Boatwright said.