President’s Future Hinges on Upcoming Appearances
President Joe Biden may be contemplating the end of his re-election campaign following a lackluster debate performance against Donald Trump, according to a report by The New York Times. Biden’s ability to convince voters of his suitability for another term is in question.
Upcoming crucial events
A key ally told The New York Times that Biden remains dedicated to his campaign, but his upcoming public appearances could significantly impact his 2024 plans. Biden is set for an interview with ABC News host George Stephanopoulos on Friday, followed by campaign stops in pivotal swing states Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
“He knows if he has two more events like that, we’re in a different place by the end of the weekend,” the ally said anonymously.
Official denials amid speculation
White House senior deputy press secretary Andrew Bates denied the claims, stating, “That claim is absolutely false.” A Biden campaign spokesperson also dismissed the report as “wrong.” However, another ally told CNN that Biden remains “clear-eyed” about his campaign’s struggles following the debate.
“The polls are plummeting, the fundraising is drying up, and the interviews are going badly,” the person told CNN. “He’s not oblivious.”
These statements mark the first signs from Biden’s camp suggesting he might consider dropping out of the race, as polls show him trailing in his rematch against Trump. Both Biden’s campaign and White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients have called all-hands meetings, and Biden is meeting with Democratic governors amid concerns about the broader impact on down-ballot races.
Calls for Biden to withdraw
Prominent voices within the Democratic Party, including Representative Lloyd Doggett of Texas, have urged Biden to reconsider his re-election bid, citing the risk of a Trump victory. Former President Barack Obama and other influential figures have also expressed concerns about Biden’s chances.
“I think it’s a legitimate question to say, ‘Is this an episode or is this a condition’,” former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told MSNBC.
In a Newsweek op-ed, former Democratic congressman Tim Ryan suggested Vice President Kamala Harris should replace Biden as the party’s nominee.
Hunter Biden’s presence
There has also been confusion over Hunter Biden’s recent presence at the White House. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that Hunter had joined meetings to prepare for Biden’s response to a Supreme Court ruling.
Biden reflects on debate performance
Biden attributed his debate performance to exhaustion from recent trips to Europe and a lack of rest. “I didn’t have my best night,” he admitted at a campaign event. Despite his struggles, he affirmed his commitment to the truth and his ability to do the job.
In a more energized rally speech, Biden acknowledged his declining debate skills but emphasized his experience and integrity: “I know how to tell the truth. I know right from wrong. I know how to do this job.”