President Joe Biden faces increasing pressure from within his own party following a controversial debate performance against Donald Trump, prompting calls for him to end his re-election campaign. Despite Biden’s dismissive remarks about his performance, concerns about his ability to effectively campaign against Trump continue to mount.
Biden’s Interview and Democratic Response
In a rare prime-time ABC News interview, Biden referred to his debate missteps as a “bad episode” and asserted that only divine intervention would prompt him to withdraw from the race. However, several House Democrats, including Angie Craig of Minnesota, have urged him to step aside, citing doubts about his ability to secure victory against Trump.
Growing Democratic Unease
While senior Democratic figures have not explicitly called for Biden’s resignation, concerns persist over polling trends showing Trump’s lead widening. Fear of losing not only the presidency but also control of the House and Senate if Biden remains the nominee underscores the urgency among dissenting Democrats.
Calls for Withdrawal and Biden’s Defiance
Congressman Lloyd Doggett of Texas was the first House Democrat to advocate for Biden’s withdrawal, emphasizing the need for a timely decision to avoid jeopardizing the Democrats’ electoral prospects. Other lawmakers, including Mike Quigley of Illinois and Seth Moulton of Massachusetts, have echoed these sentiments.
Biden’s Response and Cognitive Assessment
During the ABC interview, Biden declined to undergo a public cognitive test, asserting that his daily responsibilities serve as ongoing assessments of his fitness for office. This response has drawn criticism from within his party, with Democratic congresswoman Judy Chu describing it as unsettling and unconvincing.
Vice-President Harris and Speculation
Vice-President Kamala Harris, often speculated as a potential replacement for Biden, has publicly supported him while emphasizing the importance of the upcoming election for American democracy. Her recent engagements, including attending White House meetings and events, underscore her role in the administration amid speculation about Biden’s future.
Concerns and Considerations
Questions surrounding Biden’s candidacy and Harris’s potential succession highlight internal Democratic divisions and strategic considerations as the election approaches. While Harris faces scrutiny over her vice-presidential tenure, recent shifts in focus to critical issues like abortion rights aim to bolster Democratic support.
FAQ
Why are some House Democrats calling for Biden to withdraw from the re-election campaign?
Several House Democrats, including Angie Craig and Lloyd Doggett, have expressed doubts about Biden’s ability to effectively campaign against Donald Trump based on recent polling and concerns about electoral viability.
Did President Biden agree to undergo a public cognitive test?
No, President Biden declined to undergo a public cognitive test during his ABC News interview, citing his daily responsibilities as ongoing assessments of his fitness for office.
What is Vice-President Kamala Harris’s stance on the situation?
Vice-President Harris has publicly supported President Biden while emphasizing the importance of the upcoming election for American democracy. She has refrained from commenting directly on Democratic disquiet about Biden’s candidacy.
Is there speculation about Vice-President Harris potentially replacing President Biden?
Yes, Vice-President Harris has been speculated as a potential replacement for Biden if he were to withdraw from the re-election campaign. Her recent engagements and public statements reflect her ongoing support for Biden amidst internal party discussions.
How are these developments affecting Democratic unity?
The debate over Biden’s candidacy and the potential for Harris to succeed him has sparked debates within the Democratic Party, highlighting concerns about electoral strategy and leadership ahead of the November elections.
