George Clooney, the celebrated Hollywood actor and veteran Democratic activist, has called for President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential campaign. In an op-ed in the New York Times titled "I Love Joe Biden. But We Need a Nominee," Clooney emphasized that the Democratic Party risks losing the election and control of Congress if Biden remains the nominee.
"This is not just my opinion; it is the opinion of every congressman and governor I have spoken to privately," wrote Clooney, who has hosted several fundraising events, including one for Biden last month. Clooney argued that the party should elect a new candidate at the convention next month, admitting the process will be "messy" but saying it will "wake up" voters.
Clooney expressed his long-standing commitment to the Democratic Party, stating, "I am a lifelong Democrat: and I make no apologies for that. I am proud of what my party stands for." He praised Biden's character and achievements over the years but pointed out that age has become a significant factor, saying, "The battle that cannot be won is the fight against time. No one can. It's devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at a fundraiser was not the Great Biden of 2010. No. He wasn't even the Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed in the debate."
Clooney mentioned potential alternative candidates such as Vice President Kamala Harris, Governor Wes Moore of Maryland, Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, and Governor Gavin Newsom of California. Last month, Clooney, Julia Roberts, and Barbra Streisand were among the celebrities at an event that raised a record more than $30 million for Biden, hoping to energize Democrats for what they say could be one of the most important elections in American history.
Despite Clooney’s calls, Biden has refused to withdraw from the race, even amid widespread criticism for his weak performance in the debate against presumptive Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. House Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi commented on the situation, stating, "It's up to the president to decide whether to remain in the 2024 race. We are all encouraging him to make that decision because time is running out."
Clooney's op-ed has added fuel to the ongoing debate within the Democratic Party about Biden's candidacy. Representatives for Clooney did not immediately respond to messages asking for more details, such as when the actor made the decision or when he last spoke with Biden.
- Clooney's op-ed has sparked significant discussion and debate within the Democratic Party. Many are weighing the potential risks and benefits of asking Biden to step aside. Some party leaders, including Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, have been named by Clooney as key figures who should encourage Biden to step down voluntarily.
- Clooney's involvement in Biden's campaign has been notable, with the actor headlining a June 15 fundraiser alongside Biden and former President Barack Obama, which raised approximately $28 million for Biden's re-election campaign. However, Clooney's recent criticism highlights a growing concern among some Democrats about Biden's ability to lead the party to victory in the upcoming election.
