- Key Points:
- Biden campaign chair acknowledges decline in support but remains confident in multiple paths to victory.
- Democratic leaders express concerns and consider alternatives, with some urging Biden to step aside.
- A majority of Democrats think Vice President Kamala Harris would be a suitable presidential candidate.
Is Joe Biden Bowing Out of the 2024 Presidential Race?
Despite mounting pressures and a notable decline in support, President Joe Biden remains steadfast in his decision to run for re-election in 2024. His campaign chair, Jen O’Malley Dillon, acknowledged a “slippage” in support but emphasized that the campaign sees “multiple paths” to defeating Donald Trump. Speaking on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” she affirmed that while voters have concerns about Biden’s age, they are not shifting their support to Trump.
Democratic National Committee’s Upcoming Decisions
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is moving forward with plans for a virtual roll call to nominate the presidential candidate ahead of the party’s convention in Chicago later in August. Amidst this, discussions about Biden’s potential withdrawal from the race have intensified, with key Democratic figures, including former President Barack Obama and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, expressing concerns about Biden’s viability as a candidate.
Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware, Biden’s closest friend in Congress and his campaign co-chair, highlighted the importance of allowing Biden to have private family discussions without the pressure of leaks and public statements. This sentiment underscores the sensitive nature of the current deliberations within the Democratic Party.
Concerns and Support Within the Democratic Party
A new poll from the AP-NORC Centre for Public Affairs Research revealed that about 6 in 10 Democrats believe Vice President Kamala Harris would make a good president, reflecting growing consideration for her as an alternative candidate. Some Democrats at the highest levels are pushing for Biden to reconsider his election bid. Sen. Jon Tester of Montana is among nearly two dozen in Congress calling for Biden to step aside, citing the need for a stronger candidate to ensure a Democratic victory.
Despite these concerns, Biden remains committed to his re-election campaign. His senior aides have had no discussions about him dropping out, and he has shown resilience in the face of mounting pressure. However, Biden is aware of the challenges, including difficulties in fundraising and growing calls for his exit.
Health and Campaign Dynamics
Biden’s recent positive COVID-19 test, resulting in mild symptoms, has added another layer of complexity to his campaign. In a recent radio interview, Biden dismissed concerns about his political recovery, asserting that the race between him and Trump remains competitive.
However, private conversations among Democratic lawmakers are increasingly focused on the possibility of supporting Harris as a replacement candidate. This internal party debate reflects a broader concern about Biden’s ability to lead the ticket to victory in 2024.
Conclusion
As the Democratic Party grapples with internal divisions and the urgency of securing a strong candidate, President Joe Biden’s insistence on remaining in the race is both a testament to his determination and a point of contention. With influential Democrats and a significant portion of the party’s base expressing doubts, the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the party’s strategy for the 2024 election.
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