I always read Doug Rooks’ well-written and knowledgeable Thursday columns. I also almost always agree with him, but not so with his July 4 column about President Joe Biden.

I agree that Biden has been an excellent president, but I don’t think that earns him a free pass to a second term. Age comes to us all, and the limitations that come with it need to be faced clear-eyed and realistically.

If Biden continues to be the candidate, there are two possible outcomes. One is that he loses the election to former President Trump, which at this point seems likely. What does that do to his legacy? All the good he’s done will be wiped out within the first year of a second Trump term.

There is, of course, the chance that he pulls out a victory. Perhaps Trump makes a grievous mistake or keels over from a lifetime of eating fast food. But then what? Biden has clearly lost a step even in just the last few months. Does he really want to be another Dianne Feinstein, wheeled around with aides whispering the answers to questions in his ear? And what does that do to his legacy? It certainly didn’t do hers any good. Feinstein’s refusal to resign left judicial appointments in limbo for months.

If he withdraws now, the party faithful will rally around him with gratitude and respect. His accomplishments will be noted and hopefully remain in place under another Democrat. A new candidate may be able to reinvigorate the electorate, many of whom are unenthusiastic about the current candidates and may not even vote.

I hope Biden will do the patriotic thing and allow the Democrats to move forward now instead of having to wait through the destruction of four more years of Trump.

Holly Rahmlow

Readfield