WASHINGTON, USA: U.S. President Joe Biden has committed to staying in the 2024 presidential race, despite a shaky debate performance against Donald Trump last week. During a call with campaign staff on Wednesday, Biden reassured them of his intent to run, emphasizing that he remains the Democratic Party leader and is not being pushed out.
“I am running,” Biden asserted, according to sources familiar with the call. This reassurance aimed to quell growing concerns among top Democrats on Capitol Hill about his re-election viability. To further solidify his position, Biden is scheduled to meet with Democratic governors on Wednesday evening, some of whom will attend virtually.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, when asked if Biden was considering stepping down, firmly responded, “Absolutely not.”
Biden has also engaged in conversations with key Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and House Democrat Jim Clyburn. Clyburn, a significant figure in Biden’s 2020 win, suggested that if Biden steps aside, the party should hold a “mini-primary” to select a new candidate. He also stated his support for Vice President Kamala Harris as a potential nominee, stressing the importance of selecting a strong running mate.
Biden’s debate performance in Atlanta last week led to calls from some Democrats for him to step aside. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi commented on the need to assess whether Biden’s performance was an isolated incident or indicative of a larger issue. Biden attributed his debate difficulties to fatigue from recent foreign trips and a cold.
Despite the criticism, Biden’s campaign continues its damage control efforts, with calls to donors and reassurances to staff. White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients acknowledged the challenging few days but emphasized the administration’s accomplishments and ongoing work.
Potential rivals to Biden, should he decide to step aside, include Vice President Kamala Harris and several governors: Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer, California’s Gavin Newsom, Illinois’ J.B. Pritzker, Pennsylvania’s Josh Shapiro, and Kentucky’s Andy Beshear. While Harris is the most likely successor, these governors have been mentioned as possible candidates.
As the pressure mounts, Biden remains resolute in his bid for re-election, focusing on his administration’s achievements and addressing the concerns of his party.
