Joe Biden is firmly in the race for the US presidency, despite recent speculations and pressures following his challenging debate performance against Donald Trump. Biden’s spokeswoman, Karine Jean-Pierre, emphasized on Wednesday that the president has no plans to withdraw, stating unequivocally that he is committed to his campaign.
Panic and Speculation Among Democrats
Biden’s performance in the recent debate has sparked significant concern within the Democratic Party. Polls showing Trump increasing his lead over Biden have only fueled these worries. Reports from The New York Times and CNN indicated that Biden had confided in a key ally about the critical nature of his reelection campaign and the need to quickly restore public confidence in his capabilities.
Biden’s Determination
Jean-Pierre refuted these reports, making it clear that Biden is resolute in his decision to stay in the race. Addressing campaign and party staffers, Biden affirmed his commitment to the campaign: “I’m in this race to the end and we’re going to win because when Democrats unite, we will always win. Just as we beat Donald Trump in 2020, we’re going to beat him again in 2024,” he declared, according to a source close to the campaign.
Support from Democratic Governors
In an emergency meeting with Democratic governors, Biden reiterated his message of determination, and the governors pledged their support. Maryland Governor Wes Moore, along with Minnesota’s Tim Walz and Kathy Hochul of New York, stood by Biden, affirming his fitness to serve. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also expressed her support on social media, emphasizing Biden’s resolve to win.
Addressing Debate Performance
Biden acknowledged his poor debate performance in a candid radio interview with Wisconsin’s Civic Media. “I screwed up. I made a mistake. That’s 90 minutes on stage. Look at what I’ve done in 3.5 years,” he said, aiming to reassure Democratic donors and voters that this was an isolated incident.
Calls for Withdrawal
Despite Biden’s reassurances, some party figures have called for his withdrawal. Reed Hastings, Netflix co-founder and a significant Democratic donor, urged Biden to step aside for a stronger candidate who could defeat Trump and ensure safety and prosperity.
Polling Concerns and Strategic Moves
A New York Times poll conducted after the debate showed Trump leading Biden, exacerbating Democratic concerns. Biden’s campaign is now working to restore confidence, with Biden scheduled for a television interview with ABC News and planned visits to swing states Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.
Addressing Fatigue and Criticism
Biden cited fatigue from extensive travel as a factor in his debate performance, despite having nearly two weeks back in the United States before the debate. Democratic lawmakers, such as Arizona congressman Raul Grijalva, have publicly expressed doubts, with Grijalva suggesting it might be time to consider other candidates.
Local Sentiment
In Biden’s hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania, residents expressed sympathy but also concern about his debate performance. Jamie Hayes, a 73-year-old resident, remarked, “I was embarrassed for him. I felt he didn’t feel well and he probably shouldn’t have gone on the stage.”
As Biden continues his campaign, he faces the dual challenge of addressing internal party concerns while also preparing to take on Trump in the upcoming election.
