Growing Pressure on Biden to Withdraw from 2024 Presidential Race
In a significant development, a coalition of prominent Democratic donors and politicians are urging President Joe Biden to reconsider his decision to run for a second term in the 2024 presidential election. According to a report by The New York Times, these influential donors have threatened to withhold approximately $90 million in campaign contributions if Biden proceeds with his candidacy.
The mounting opposition stems from concerns about Biden's age and his performance during a recent debate against Republican contender Donald Trump. The debate, held in June, saw Biden's performance criticized by both party insiders and the general public. Democratic Senator Peter Welch, speaking to The Washington Post, voiced a sentiment echoed by many within the party, stating, "For the sake of the country, I am calling on President Biden to withdraw from the presidential race."
To date, 17 Democratic representatives have publicly opposed Biden's bid for re-election. This dissent is further underscored by the findings of a recent poll conducted by ABC, The Washington Post, and Ipsos, which revealed that 67% of Americans, including many of Biden's own supporters, believe he should step aside. This widespread sentiment highlights the growing unease within the Democratic Party regarding Biden's viability as a candidate.
Beyond the debate performance, critics point to Biden's age—he is 81 years old—as a significant factor. Concerns about his ability to endure the rigors of another presidential campaign and potentially another term in office have been widely discussed. The situation is further complicated by the political landscape, with the Republican party presenting a strong challenge, particularly if Donald Trump continues to be a central figure in their campaign.
The internal pressure within the Democratic Party represents a critical juncture for Biden's political future. As the November election approaches, the party must navigate these internal divisions while presenting a united front against the Republicans. The decisions made in the coming months will be crucial in determining the direction of the Democratic campaign and, ultimately, the outcome of the 2024 presidential race.