After a shaky performance in the recent TV debate against Donald Trump, President Joe Biden faces mounting pressure from within his own party. The debate, held as part of the US election campaign, has left many Democrats fearing for their future and questioning Biden's ability to lead the party to victory in the upcoming election.
Biden's allies and aides emphasize that only he can decide to drop out of the race, despite his insistence that he has no intention of doing so. However, conditions for his withdrawal are becoming increasingly clear: poll numbers would need to continue falling, elected Democrats would need to abandon him in large numbers, and donor money would need to dry up.
Leading Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, could potentially persuade Biden to step down if they believe his continued candidacy risks losing both the White House and control of Congress. Democratic strategists argue that any appeal for Biden to resign must appeal to his sense of dignity and public service, likening his significant legislative achievements to those of former President Lyndon B. Johnson.
The fear among Democrats is that if Biden loses, it would not only mean the return of Trump but also the loss of the House and Senate, allowing Trump to appoint MAGA-minded judges to lifetime positions. David Axelrod, a top advisor under former President Barack Obama, believes Biden views this election as an existential battle against Trump and may respond to poll numbers suggesting an unwinnable race.
Despite the pressure, Biden's inner circle and family, including his wife Jill and son Hunter, continue to support his candidacy. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated that Biden is 'absolutely not' dropping out, and Biden himself remains committed to defeating Trump.
Former President Donald Trump has seized on Biden's debate performance, predicting that Biden will drop out and be replaced by Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump, who dominated the debate, has mocked Biden's ability to handle international leaders and has claimed that Biden's resignation is imminent, a claim the White House has strongly denied.
Kamala Harris has shown no public desire to replace Biden, despite Trump's assertions. Polls have shown her in a better position than Biden against Trump, but still not winning. Democratic heavyweights and parliamentarians continue to publicly question Biden's fitness for office, adding to the growing anxiety within the party.
