Knox County Democrats are standing behind President Joe Biden, even as some members of his party are suggesting he should bow out to allow another Democrat to run instead.
At a CNN debate June 27, Biden's voice was hoarse and raspy from the start. After he stumbled over words and looked far from vigorous, some prominent national Democrats are asking if it's time to replace him on the ballot.
But the president's ideas and points were strong, Biden delegate and Knoxville political strategist Jack Vaughn told Knox News.
Regardless of Biden's performance at the debate, local party leaders are united in their message: Biden is capable, and any Democratic option is better than another four years of Trump. They want voters to focus on policy issues.
Here's a sampling of what they had to say:
Stuart Hohl, Knox County Democratic Party chair
Knox County Democratic Party Chair Stuart Hohl said in a statement to Knox News that Democrats know debates aren't Biden's strong suit, but voters should look at the president's record up to this point.
"We have two administrations to consider," he said. "With Donald Trump, we have had an administration filled with people who worked only for the wealthy and eroded our institutions. With President Biden, we have one of the most affective administrations in history, that is filled with people working on the issues affecting everyday people."
Jack Vaughn, delegate for Joe Biden, campaign manager for Democratic Knox County Commission candidates Damon Rawls and Shane Jackson
Vaughn said Biden showed he understands the issues, and that it is hard to debate a "serial liar."
"(Biden) showed that he understands what's at stake," he said. "We'll make sure America doesn't suffer another Trump presidency five months from now."
He acknowledged conversations around the debate are focused on Biden's performance, but wants voters to look at Trump's as well.
"What we saw from Trump was more lies, more denying his responsibility for what happened Jan. 6, more (not explaining) his repeated attacks on voting rights and democracy and a lack of commitment to abortion rights, which is the number one issue for all American people," Vaughn said.
State Rep. Sam McKenzie
Rep. Sam McKenzie, a Democrat from Knoxville, admitted Biden looked tired. The critiques stopped there.
"His policies are strong," McKenzie said. "The economy is back, inflation is down. His record transcends a stammer of a moment of confusion."
McKenzie, a Democratic elected official since 2012, said the party put voters in a tough position with Biden.
"We have to start turning this over to the next generation," he said. "I don't see this happening again. ... This is where we are and at the end of the day, he's done a good job."
In the end, McKenzie said another Trump presidency is "unimaginable."
Katherine Bike, Knox County Board of Education member
Katherine Bike, a Democrat from West Knoxville, said Biden is in his later years and it shows, but she'd rather have him than Trump.
"Would I love to see some diversity and representation rather than two white men discussion America's priorities? Yes," she told Knox News in a text. "Will I vote for him if he is the front runner against Trump? Yes."
Matt Shears, former Knox County Democratic Party chair
Shears told Knox News from a Biden rally in Raleigh there were some "unfortunate hiccups" at the debate, but Biden is still the best option.
"The choice is still as clear as day: a convicted felon found liable for rape or an honest, decent man who will help restore our hope in democracy."
He said at the June 28 rally, Biden supporters were optimistic and there wasn't much talk of the debate.
"I saw the debate last night and I saw President Biden speak today. ... The Joe Biden I heard today was full of energy, dedication and vigor," Shears said in a text, adding that whoever prepped Biden for the debate needs to be fired. "I know he has what it takes to serve."
Jane George, Congressional candidate
Jane George, a Democrat trying to unseat Rep. Tim Burchett, told Knox News that Biden spoke clearly about his support of abortion rights, the issue that got her into the race.
"When it comes down to the people (a president) surrounds themselves with, when it comes down to policy, there are those who have experience and are capable of making decisions and keeping the integrity of America intact," George said of Biden.
She blames Trump for the dissolution abortion rights and cautioned what would happen for women if he were elected to a second term.
"We saw a man fight for women's rights and a man who is willing to tear those rights apart," she said.
Domonica Bryan, Tennessee Senate candidate
Donomica Bryan, a Democrat from east Knox County, told Knox News in a text Biden's performance was disappointing, but he effectively conveyed the progress he made as president.
"I urge Tennessee voters to look beyond last night's debate and consider the bigger picture," she said. "We need a leader who will continue to build up our great nation. President Biden has shown himself to be that leader, and I believe he deserves our support and confidence in our election."
Bryan touted Biden's steps to address COVID-19, stimulate economic growth and invest in infrastructure, which she said is critical to Tennesseans.
Allie Feinberg reports on politics for Knox News. Email her: allie.feinberg@knoxnews.com and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @alliefeinberg.
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