Charles Barkley tells Biden to ‘pass the torch,’ but would ‘never’ vote for Trump

Former basketball player and TV personality Charles Barkley said President Biden should “pass the torch,” but he clarified he would never vote for former President Trump.

“I have nothing but admiration and respect for President Biden, but it’s time for him to pass the torch to a younger generation,” Barkley told CNBC’s Dominic Chu on Thursday on “Closing Bell.” “He’s been a great person, he’s been a great man.”

Biden continues to face political headwinds in the wake of a rocky debate performance against former President Trump last month. While on stage, the president spoke with a raspy voice and stumbled over his words, raising questions about his age, mental fitness and ability to recapture the White House in November.

“He’s had a great life, he’s one of the greatest people I’ve ever been fortunate to be around in my life, but it’s time to pass the torch,” Barkley said of the president. “And listen … President Trump, I would never vote for somebody who had that mentality. You should always have respect … for the office of whoever who’s in the presidency.” 

“I get mad at these sports teams. Some of these bozos won’t visit the White House because it’s a Democrat or a Republican in there. That is stupid,” he added. “It’s the President of the United States. We should always admire that office, no matter who’s in there.”

Biden and his allies have pushed back on calls for him to leave the presidential race, even as an increasing number of Democratic lawmakers are pressuring him to withdraw. 

At a press conference Thursday night, Biden said he believes “he is “the most qualified person to run for president.”

“I believe I’m the best qualified to govern,” Biden said. “And I think I’m the best qualified to win. But there are other people who could beat Trump too. But it’s all start from scratch. And you know, we talk about money raised. We’re not doing bad.

He continued, saying, “The fact is, the consideration is, that I think I’m the most qualified person to run for president. I beat him once, and I will beat him again.”