US President Joe Biden announced on Friday his intention to remain in the 2024 presidential race, despite increasing dissent within the Democratic Party. This decision comes amid speculation that he might consider stepping down soon.
“The stakes are high, and the choice is clear. Together, we will win,” the 81-year-old President declared from his Delaware beach home, where he is currently isolating due to Covid-19. Biden expressed eagerness to return to the campaign trail next week as his health improves, according to his doctor.
However, Biden’s political standing seems precarious, with an additional ten House Democrats and two senators joining the growing number of lawmakers urging him to withdraw from the race against Donald Trump in November. A recent debate performance against Trump heightened concerns about Biden’s age and health, leading over 30 House Democrats and four senators to call for his exit.
Prominent supporters, including Silicon Valley investor Michael Moritz and actor George Clooney, have also suggested Biden step aside. Moritz was quoted in the New York Times, stating, “Sadly, President Biden has a choice — vanity or virtue.”
Reports indicate top Democrats are worried, with polls showing Trump potentially reclaiming the presidency and fundraising efforts faltering. NBC News mentioned that some of Biden’s family members have considered what an exit strategy might entail, though no final decision has been made.
Vice President Kamala Harris, seen as a leading contender to succeed Biden if he withdraws, held an emergency call with donors on Friday. Despite the mounting pressure, Biden’s campaign insists he remains the best candidate. “Absolutely the president’s in this race,” campaign chairwoman Jen O’Malley Dillon told MSNBC’s Morning Joe program, emphasizing Biden’s commitment to defeating Trump.
In his statement, Biden criticized Trump’s recent speech at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, calling it a “dark vision for the future” that does not represent American values. The contrast between the two campaigns has been stark, with Trump receiving a triumphant response from Republicans after surviving an assassination attempt.
Pressure on Biden has intensified, with reports that former President Barack Obama, ex-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and other party leaders have privately expressed concerns. Top House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries remained cautious, stating that the current ticket could win but emphasizing that the decision lies with Biden.
Speculation is mounting that Biden may use his time in Rehoboth Beach to consult with family and consider his options. An NBC report suggested that any decision to step aside would be carefully planned to maintain dignity and minimize chaos within the Democratic Party.
Biden, who defeated Trump in 2020 to become the oldest president in US history, now faces a series of polls showing him trailing Trump in the 2024 race. Some polls even indicate that Harris might be a more competitive candidate.
