Article Summary –
President Joe Biden resolutely declared his intention to stay in the 2024 presidential race despite intraparty calls for him to step down, emphasizing the need for Democrats to unite against presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump. Biden issued an open letter to congressional Democrats, sought to bolster support through strategic outreach, and received mixed responses from key lawmakers, with some endorsing his stance and others expressing reservations about his fitness for another term. Amid ongoing debates and positioning within the party, Biden’s campaign focused on solidifying internal backing while addressing concerns directly through meetings and public statements.
President Joe Biden stood firm Monday against calls to drop his reelection bid and urged an end to intraparty drama among Democrats since his debate performance last month. Key lawmakers expressed support for his 2024 presidential run.
As congressional Democrats returned to Washington, Biden sent an open letter to silence doubts about his fitness to lead. He emphasized the party’s goal to defeat presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump in November.
Biden’s coordinated effort to secure Democratic support seemed to gain traction, though not without reservations. Late Monday, public support from Democrats grew, an attempt by Biden allies to counter calls for him to step aside.
The two-page letter stated, “The question of how to move forward has been well-aired for over a week now. And it’s time for it to end.”
What to know about the 2024 Election
Biden wrote, “We have 42 days to the Democratic Convention and 119 days to the general election. Any weakening of resolve only helps Trump and hurts us. It’s time to unite and defeat Donald Trump.”
Biden followed up with an MSNBC “Morning Joe” interview, insisting that “average Democrats” want him to stay in the race. He challenged critics to run against him or support him against Trump. Biden also joined a call with his national finance committee, while First Lady Jill Biden campaigned in a three-state swing.
“Joe has made it clear that he’s all in,” she told a military crowd in Wilmington, North Carolina. “That’s his decision, and I support it fully.”
Democratic voters are split on Biden’s candidacy, according to a New York Times/Siena College poll.
On Capitol Hill, more prominent voices backed Biden. Rep. Pramila Jayapal and Sen. Jon Tester expressed varying levels of support, citing the threat of a second Trump presidency.
However, Biden’s letter angered some House Democrats, feeling out of touch with voters. Biden virtually met with the Congressional Black Caucus for 30 minutes, discussing policy proposals and expressing gratitude for their support. No members spoke against him.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated Biden had undergone three neurological exams — no diagnosis of Parkinson’s.
The drama unfolds with just over a month until the Democratic National Convention and a week before Republicans renominate Trump.
Rep. Ayanna Pressley and Maxine Waters voiced support for Biden, emphasizing the focus on defeating Trump. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and other members also stood by Biden despite internal party concerns.
Sen. Adam Smith publicly called for Biden to step aside, while Biden’s allies expect more direct engagement from him with lawmakers. Biden repeatedly asked campaign co-chairs who else needs to hear from him and address concerns.
Rep. Annie Kuster and Rep. Nanette Barragan urged Biden to speak directly to the Democratic caucus to help address constituents’ questions. Senators, returning to Washington, were generally reluctant to criticize Biden, awaiting a Democratic caucus meeting to discuss concerns.
Sen. Michael Bennet praised Biden’s past campaign and presidency. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and other Democrats showed support, calling for a focus on defeating Trump.
Strategists noted record fundraising as donors see congressional Democrats as a “firewall” against Trump.
—
Read More Kitchen Table News