Concerns about President Joe Biden’s candidacy have been expressed by former President Barack Obama and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, according to multiple sources. Pelosi even warned Biden that Democrats could lose control of the House if he continues with his 2024 reelection bid. However, Pelosi has stated that the reports misrepresent any conversations she may have had with the president. Despite these concerns, Biden remains adamant about staying in the race and has become more committed to his campaign in recent days.
Influential Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have privately expressed their concerns to Biden about the trajectory of the race. They are worried that Biden’s standing could seriously damage the ranks of Democrats in Congress. Control of the House and Senate is at stake, and a Republican sweep in November could advance Trump’s agenda for years to come. The chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Rep. Suzan DelBene, also spoke with Biden, armed with fresh data that highlighted the concerns of front-line Democrats seeking election to the House.
Even close allies of Pelosi, such as California Rep. Adam Schiff, have called for Biden to drop his reelection bid and “pass the torch.” However, many Democrats still want Biden to stay in the race. The Democratic National Committee is moving forward with plans to formally nominate Biden as its candidate in early August. A recent poll conducted by AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed that nearly two-thirds of Democrats nationwide believe Biden should step aside and let another candidate be nominated. However, the Biden campaign points to extensive support for him in key swing states and from the Congressional Black and Hispanic caucuses.
Biden’s recent diagnosis of COVID-19 has further complicated the situation. He is experiencing mild symptoms and had already planned to return to his Delaware beach home before the diagnosis. Despite these challenges, Biden remains determined to win and has assured Schumer and Jeffries that he plans to work with them to pass his agenda to help working families.
In conclusion, the Democratic Party is facing a critical moment as concerns grow about Biden’s candidacy. Influential Democrats, including Obama and Pelosi, have privately expressed doubts about his ability to defeat Trump and the potential negative impact on congressional races. However, Biden remains resolute in his decision to stay in the race, despite calls from some Democrats for him to step aside. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Biden reevaluates his candidacy or continues to push forward.
