New York Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado says President Joe Biden should end his campaign for reelection and make room for a new leader, the highest-ranking New York Democrat so far to do so.

Delgado on Wednesday wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he has "immense respect and admiration for his deep and abiding commitment to the American people and our founding democratic ideals. He can add to his legacy, showing his strength and grace, by ending his campaign and making room for a new leader."

"There is no greater threat to our democracy than former President Donald Trump. He must be defeated," Delgado added. "That is why I join with millions of Americans - including everyday New Yorkers from all walks of life - who are expressing legitimate concerns about President Biden's ability to wage a successful campaign against Trump. Sustaining our collective belief in democracy an trust in our democratic institutions requires those of us in elected office to be straight with the American people. Dismissing these voices out of hand is misguided and dangerous."

Delgado is a former congressman. Democratic Rep. Pat Ryan, who filled Delgado's seat in the House of Representatives after he was appointed as lieutenant governor, earlier Wednesday also called for Biden to step aside.

Delgado's position comes as the Democratic Party mulls the future of its nominee following Biden's debate performance two weeks ago. It's a contrast to Delgado's boss — Gov. Kathy Hochul — who was one of 20-plus Democratic governors who met with Biden in Washington last week and said she and the others there pledged their support to him. Hours before Delgado's statement Wednesday, Hochul in a phone interview with Spectrum News 1 reiterated her support for the president.

"While Lieutenant Governor Delgado has the right to voice his opinion, Governor Hochul believes Democrats must come together, move forward as a united party, and focus on defeating Donald Trump in November. Every day we spend worrying is time away from working toward that goal," Hochul campaign spokeswoman Jen Goodman said in a statement to Spectrum News 1.