Joe Biden Faces Increasing Pressure from Democrats to Withdraw from 2024 Race
President Joe Biden is facing mounting pressure from within his own party to reconsider his candidacy for the 2024 Presidential Election. In a recent call with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, several senior House Democrats expressed their concerns about Biden's viability as a candidate following his poor performance in last month's debate against Donald Trump.
The call, which took place before lawmakers returned to Washington this week, revealed deep anxiety among Democratic leaders about the potential damage to the party's chances of regaining the House majority. According to sources familiar with the call, the number of lawmakers who explicitly stated that Biden should not be the Democratic nominee was greater than those who supported his continued candidacy.
Biden's Determination to Stay in the Race
Despite the growing pressure, President Biden remains steadfast in his decision to run for re-election. During an interview on MSNBC, Biden emphasized the importance of unity within the Democratic Party and expressed his belief that the average voter supports him. He urged elected Democrats to rally around his candidacy, emphasizing that any lack of discernment would only benefit Donald Trump.
Biden has been actively campaigning, with plans to visit Michigan, Texas, and Nevada in the coming weeks. He will also host a NATO summit in Washington, marking the 75th anniversary of the Atlantic Alliance. However, influential Democratic figures like New York Congressman Jerrold Nadler and others have voiced their concerns, suggesting it may be time for Biden to step aside.
The coming week will be crucial for Biden, as it remains to be seen whether the anxiety among Democrats will crystallize into a coordinated effort to encourage him to withdraw. The decision to step down at this stage of the campaign would be significant, given Biden's historic record and the respect he commands within the party.
- In a letter to parliamentarians, Biden reiterated his determination to remain in the race, dismissing speculation about his withdrawal. He stressed that any indecision would only aid Trump's campaign.
- Jeffries, who has been listening to the concerns of his colleagues, has not yet taken a public stance on whether Biden should continue his campaign. He has allowed members to express their views and make their own judgments.
- Several Democratic lawmakers, including Maxine Waters and Bobby Scott, have spoken in support of Biden. However, the consensus among many is that the party should consider Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee if Biden steps aside.
- The full Democratic caucus is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, a day that is anticipated to be pivotal for Biden's campaign. Many Democrats are waiting for Jeffries to take a public stand, which could influence the party's direction moving forward.
