Prominent GOP figures Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert were quick to join their party's criticism of Biden following the announcement. The White House / Wikimedia
Greene, the Georgia congresswoman, offered a controversial interpretation of Biden's decision, suggesting underlying power struggles within the government. She stated on social media platform X, "There's a soft civil war happening in the deep state and the elites in power. The Democrats, the IC, and their activists in the media have been lying to us saying there's nothing wrong with Biden for years. Next, they start a coup against him demanding he drop out of the race when they couldn't hide it anymore." @RepMTG / X
Greene also made unsubstantiated claims about the Bidens' motives for leaving the race, alleging financial considerations related to a future presidential library. Mark Hoffman / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
Colorado Representative Lauren Boebert took a somewhat milder approach, focusing on broader concerns with Democratic policies. She wrote on X, "The problem was never just Joe Biden, though he was a major problem, it was and is the Democrat agenda." Jasper Colt / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Trump campaign responded forcefully, with the former president describing Biden as "the Worst President, by far, in the History of our Nation" on his Truth Social platform. Trump's running mate, JD Vance, questioned Biden's fitness to remain in office, stating, "If Joe Biden ends his reelection campaign, how can he justify remaining President?" Jasper Colt/USA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK
In contrast, prominent Democrats praised Biden's decision. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg released a statement saying, "Joe Biden has earned his place among the best and most consequential presidents in American history. I am so proud to serve under his leadership, and thankful for his unwavering focus on what is best for our country." Robert Scheer/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK
The unexpected announcement has reshaped the political landscape, with both parties now reassessing their strategies for the upcoming election. Clay Banks / Unsplash
