The first of two presidential debates aired on CNN Thursday night, and even among Democratic commentators, the consensus is that President Joe Biden failed to deliver.

For over 90 minutes, President Donald Trump and Biden answered questions about immigration, inflation, abortion and other hot political topics while sparring over each other’s policy records.

Immediately after, multiple CNN panelists and other politicos began speculating whether Biden should step aside for another Democratic candidate or risk losing the White House and hurting the party down ballot come November.

“Joe Biden looked like a reanimated corpse,” Al.com’s far-left commentator Kyle Whitmire posted on X.

“Democrats can’t Weekend at Bernie’s their way to another four years,” he added.

Members of Alabama’s federal GOP delegation also expressed alarm at Biden’s mental state during the debate while praising Trump’s measured performance.

“Tonight’s debate was extremely revealing,” U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) said. “This was an unmitigated disaster for Biden and the democrats. While the White House has been telling us to not believe our eyes, the American people saw tonight that he is not fit for office.

“Meanwhile, President Trump gave a clear contrast for his vision and outlined a plan for immigration reform and the economy. The choice for Americans could not be more clear.”

“I am truly embarrassed by the performance of Joe Biden tonight. After tonight, the Democrat party is picking out a new candidate to replace Biden!” U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) said.

He added, “President Trump has absolutely dominated this debate, and I’m more fired up than ever to vote for him again in November. January 20, 2025, can’t come soon enough!”

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said he had no doubt Trump would win the debate, but he was surprised at how badly Biden would lose.

“I was confident Donald Trump would win this debate because he’s obviously the better candidate. I just wasn’t prepared for how bad Joe Biden would be,” U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said. “The choice in November is clear: Donald J. Trump will be the 47th President of the United States.”

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) called for a return of “strength at the White House,” while U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) jokingly congratulated Biden on the debate.

“Congratulations to President Trump on his resounding victory in tonight’s Presidential Debate,” Britt said. “The Biden-Harris experiment has failed. It’s time to return strength to the White House.”

“There couldn’t have been a more stark contrast tonight,” she added. “On one hand, you saw a dithering and diminished President struggling to stand by his failed record. On the other, President Trump made it crystal clear that he’ll restore secure borders, stable prices, safe streets, and a strong defense. That’s what American families want.”

“Great job tonight, Joe Biden,” Tuberville quipped. “You should definitely continue running for President.”

State Sen. Wes Kitchens (R-Arab) said the choice for November couldn't be more "clear."

"November cannot get here fast enough! Tonight is clear proof we need a president that will secure our border, stop the rampant flow of illegal drugs and illegal immigrants, restore our economy, and competently finish a sentence."

Alabama GOP Chairman John Wahl issued a statement highlighting Trump’s strengths and Biden’s weaknesses during the debate:

"Donald Trump delivered a strong debate performance, speaking directly to the American people, addressing their concerns, and showing his commitment to fighting for our country. He emphasized the urgent need to secure the southern border, defend individual liberty, and assist struggling families by reducing the cost of living. Trump articulated a vision of restoring the American dream through common-sense policies.

“In contrast, Joe Biden seemed more focused on personal attacks against his opponent than on the pressing issues facing the American people. Under Biden's leadership, our nation is struggling, and this debate highlighted the necessity for change. The Republican Party proudly stands for the American people and is dedicated to putting them first. We look forward to communicating that message between now and November 5th."

A second presidential debate is scheduled for September 10 on ABC.

To connect with the story's author or comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com or find him on Twitter and Facebook.

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