NBA great Charles Barkley calls on Biden to 'pass the torch' amid concerns over mental decline

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NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley called on President Biden to "pass the torch" ahead of the 2024 presidential election amid concerns that he is not mentally fit to seek re-election following his disastrous performance in last month’s debate. 

Barkley, who announced his plans to retire from television next year following the completion of the 2024-2025 NBA season, spoke about the current climate of politics during an appearance on CNBC on Thursday. 

Charles Barkley looks on before the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Final Four championship game. (Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)

"I just feel sadness," Barkley said from the American Century Championship, a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe, Nevada.

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"You got the greatest country in the world – and I have nothing but admiration and respect for President Biden, but it's time for him to pass the torch to a younger generation. He’s been a great person, a great man – this ain't something I’m saying now, I’ve said it like a year ago. It’s time for him to pass the torch."

Barkley continued, "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."

However, the NBA great’s call to have Biden step aside was not a signal for his support of former President Trump. 

Former President Trump arrives for his campaign rally at the Trump National Doral Golf Club on July 9, 2024 in Doral, Florida. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

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"Listen, President Trump – I would never vote for somebody who had that