President Joe Biden has made it clear that he has no intention of withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race, despite growing concerns and criticisms from within his own party. In a recent speech in North Carolina, Biden addressed these concerns head-on, acknowledging his age and the physical limitations that come with it. “I know I’m not a young man. I don’t walk as easily as I used to. I don’t talk as smoothly as I used to. I don’t debate as well as I used to, but I know what I do know: I know how to tell the truth. I know right from wrong. And I know how to do this job, I know how to get things done,” Biden said.
The president’s remarks came after a debate performance that many viewed as lackluster, marked by a raspy voice and moments where he appeared to lose his train of thought. This has led to increased speculation and anxiety among Democratic donors and operatives about the viability of his candidacy. However, Biden’s campaign has been quick to dismiss any notion of him stepping down. Campaign spokesperson Seth Schuster firmly stated, “No,” when asked if Biden would exit the race. Mitch Landrieu, the campaign’s co-chair, echoed this sentiment, expressing “100% confidence in Joe Biden” and emphasizing that the decision to continue is Biden’s alone.
Despite the debate performance, Biden’s campaign reported a record $14 million fundraising haul within 24 hours, indicating strong financial support. This fundraising success is seen as a counterpoint to the growing calls for Biden to reconsider his candidacy. The campaign is also preparing for a significant fundraising push over the weekend, aiming to capitalize on this momentum.
Biden’s advisers have been working diligently to reassure key supporters and donors. They have been making calls to Democratic members of Congress and other influential figures to allay concerns and maintain confidence in Biden’s campaign. The president’s inner circle remains united, despite some disagreements about his decision to seek a second term. One aide noted, “The people around him aren’t yes-men. All of them know how to tell him no. But once he makes a decision, they are really good at staying united.”
The debate performance has led to increased scrutiny of Biden’s age and health. Some Democratic operatives have criticized his advisers for not disclosing that Biden had been battling a cold, which contributed to his raspy voice and soft-spoken demeanor during the debate. This lack of transparency has fueled further speculation about his fitness for office.
Despite these challenges, Democratic congressional leaders are not planning any direct intervention with Biden. Instead, they are focusing on House and Senate races and waiting to see how the public reacts to the debate. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed his support for Biden but indicated that he is waiting to hear more from the president at upcoming campaign events.
The New York Times Editorial Board has also weighed in, calling for Biden to withdraw from the race. They argued that the greatest public service Biden could perform would be to announce that he will not seek re-election, citing concerns about the stability and security of the country. However, this view is not universally shared within the Democratic Party, and many operatives and elected officials appear resigned to the reality that Biden stepping down is unlikely.
Biden’s campaign remains focused on the future, emphasizing the importance of his leadership in addressing critical issues both domestically and internationally. In his North Carolina speech, Biden highlighted his experience and commitment to getting things done, despite the physical limitations that come with age. He also underscored the importance of American leadership on the global stage, particularly in supporting allies like Israel and Ukraine.
Biden’s recent trip to Israel, where he became the first American president to visit during a war, and his ongoing support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, are central to his foreign policy agenda. He has framed these conflicts as critical to America’s national security, arguing that failing to support allies would embolden terrorists and dictators around the world.
Domestically, Biden has called for unity and a rejection of hate in all its forms. He has condemned both antisemitism and Islamophobia, urging Americans to see each other as fellow citizens rather than enemies. This message of unity and resilience is a cornerstone of his campaign, as he seeks to navigate the challenges of a divided nation.
As the 2024 race continues, Biden’s campaign is likely to face ongoing scrutiny and criticism. However, the president’s determination to stay in the race and his focus on key issues suggest that he is prepared to face these challenges head-on. Whether this will be enough to secure a second term remains to be seen, but for now, Biden is resolute in his decision to continue his campaign.
Source: CNN
