The Daily Show; Samuel Corum via Getty Images
President Joe Biden says he would be OK with losing to former President Donald Trump in their electoral rematch this November, and Jon Stewart thinks that's a huge problem.
In an interview with ABC News's George Stephanopoulos that aired Friday, Biden said he could accept defeat if he tried his best.
"I'll feel as long as I gave it my all, and I did as good a job as I know I can do, that's what this is about," Biden said.
"That's not what this is about!" Stewart said of Biden's remarks in the latest episode of "The Daily Show" that aired Monday. "There are no participation trophies in endgame democracy."
Stewart's remarks were part of a wider segment where he criticized Biden's disastrous performance during his June 27 presidential debate with Trump.
During the segment, Stewart highlighted what he thought were "obvious weaknesses" with Biden's campaign — particularly, the president's multiple verbal snafus — and emphasized that the November race has become an "existential fight for freedom and democracy" in the US.
Biden's gaffe-ridden responses last month have fueled calls for him to step aside as the presumptive Democratic nominee.
Is it too late for Dems to change course? Jon Stewart reacts to Joe Biden's defiance over calls to step aside pic.twitter.com/qRHgeeyp7B
— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) July 9, 2024
Stewart, for his part, clarified that he isn't advocating for Biden to drop out just yet. But the comedian said the current uncertainty over Biden's candidacy could yield an unprecedented opportunity for America.
"I am in no way saying Biden's got to drop out, but can't we stress-test this candidacy?" Stewart said on Monday. "Do you have any idea how thirsty Americans are for any hint of inspiration or leadership and a release from this choice of a megalomaniac and a suffocating gerontocracy?"
Stewart suggested that the Democratic Party could instead host an open convention so that candidates could challenge Biden for the party's nomination.
"I'm just workshopping here," Stewart said.
To be sure, Biden hasn't given up on seeking reelection just yet. The presumptive Democratic nominee has repeatedly brushed aside concerns over his age and mental acuity.
Biden also issued a letter to congressional Democrats on Monday, where he reiterated his intentions to stay in the race.
"We have 42 days to the Democratic Convention and 119 days to the general election," Biden wrote. "It's time to come together, move forward as a unified party, and defeat Donald Trump."
That said, Biden does seem to welcome having an open convention if his latest interview with MSNBC's "Morning Joe" is anything to go by.
“Challenge me at the convention.”
— MSNBC (@MSNBC) July 8, 2024
MSNBC Exclusive: President Biden says he is frustrated by the “elites in the party” who claim he should step aside. “Run against me. Go ahead.” pic.twitter.com/VGnsfxEY4Q
"If any of these guys don't think I should run, run against me. Announce for president. Challenge me at the convention," Biden said when he called into the program on Monday.
Representatives for Biden did not immediately respond to a request for comment from BI sent outside regular business hours.
