U.S. President Joe Biden received a significant boost as Democratic governors expressed their support for his continued candidacy in the 2024 presidential race. Despite mounting calls for him to step down due to his age, debate performance, and recent gaffes, Biden remains resolute in his campaign efforts.
Health concerns and scheduling adjustments
While Biden has publicly dismissed concerns about his ability to lead, he reportedly expressed worries about his health during a meeting with Democratic governors on Wednesday. According to the New York Times, Biden told the governors that he plans to stop scheduling events after 8 PM due to insufficient sleep. His remark, “I’m fine — I don’t know about my brain, though,” was intended as a joke but reportedly caused discomfort among some attendees.
Mixed reactions among governors
Although Biden’s comments unsettled some governors, his campaign maintains that he is managing a demanding schedule. A Biden campaign aide highlighted Biden’s recent activities, including two trips to Europe, debate preparations, official duties, and campaign engagements. Biden campaign spokesperson Kevin Munoz defended the president’s schedule, stating, “President (George W.) Bush went to bed at 9, and President (Barack) Obama made dinner at 6:30. Normal presidents strike a balance, and so does Joe Biden. Hardly the same rigour as Donald Trump, who spends half of his day ranting on Truth Social about plans that would cause a recession and the other half golfing.”
Debate performance sparks panic
Biden’s inconsistent performance at the CNN debate sparked panic within the Democratic Party, with some members calling for his withdrawal from the race. In response, administration officials have been working to reassure the party and the public about Biden’s capabilities.
Commitment to the campaign
During the July Fourth barbecue at the White House, Biden reiterated his determination to remain in the race, telling an attendee, “I’m not going anywhere.” On Wednesday, 24 Democratic governors visited the White House, with 10 meeting Biden in person. Maryland Governor Wes Moore emphasized their support, stating, “We said that we would stand with him.” Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, chairman of the Democratic Governors Association, affirmed, “The governors have his back, and we’re working together just to make it very, very clear on that − a path to victory in November is the No. 1 priority, and that’s the No. 1 priority for the president.”
Unified support
New York Governor Kathy Hochul echoed this sentiment, declaring, “I’m here to tell you today: President Joe Biden is in it to win, and all of us said we pledged our support to him because the stakes could not be higher. We feel very confident in his abilities.”
Campaign statement
Following the meeting, the Biden campaign released a statement emphasizing the unity and commitment of the Democratic governors: “All participants reiterated their shared commitment to do everything possible to make sure President Biden and Vice President Harris beat Donald Trump in November.” As Biden continues his campaign, the support from Democratic governors signals a unified front despite the challenges and criticisms faced along the way.