People Close to Biden Say He Appears to Accept He May Have to Leave the Race
One person familiar with President Biden’s thinking cautioned that he had not yet made up his mind to leave the race, after three weeks of insisting that almost nothing would drive him out.
Biden Campaign Updates - July 19, 2024, 11:01 A.M. ET
Key Questions:
- Is it possible for Biden to be replaced?
- Who might step in for Biden if necessary?
- Insights from Democratic leaders
- Overview of the nomination process
LIVE Updates: More details on this story
July 19, 2024, 11:01 A.M. ET
Developments Regarding Biden's Candidacy
Sources close to President Biden indicated on Thursday that he is starting to come to terms with the possibility that he may need to withdraw from the race due to increasing pressure from anxious party members. However, one insider cautioned that he has not made a definitive decision yet, after weeks of firmly stating that nothing could force him out.
As the crisis surrounding his presidency deepens, Biden is facing discouraging polling results showing significant losses in critical battleground states. Reports reveal that discussions among his advisers are escalating, with some speculating that an announcement endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor could come soon, although specifics about timing remain uncertain given Biden's isolation due to a recent COVID-19 diagnosis.
Conversations within Biden’s circle have intensified, driven by recent developments such as former Speaker Nancy Pelosi's strong concerns, new state polling data highlighting the dwindling chances of an electoral win, and key donors opting to withdraw support. Advisors are now contemplating logistics for an announcement should Biden choose to exit the race.
Many Democrats, previously distraught about Biden's commitment to continue, are beginning to sense a shift. However, cautious optimism remains as they navigate the unpredictable nature of Biden's decision-making.
Publicly, Biden's team continues to present a united front, asserting Biden’s determination to remain the party's nominee and pursue reelection. Senior advisors maintain that the race remains competitive, with support from family and allies emphasizing Biden’s history of overcoming challenges.
Nonetheless, the growing chorus of calls from fellow Democrats for Biden to reconsider his candidacy—particularly from influential figures such as Representatives Raskin and Senator Tester—reflects a serious concern about the implications for the party’s chances in the upcoming election.
As the situation unfolds, Biden's public appearances and support from party leaders will be closely monitored, adding an additional layer of complexity to the dynamics of the 2024 election landscape.
Read more from The New York Times on this developing story.
Key Questions:
- Is it possible for Biden to be replaced?
- Who might step in for Biden if necessary?
- Insights from Democratic leaders
- Overview of the nomination process
LIVE Updates: More details on this story
July 19, 2024, 11:01 A.M. ET
Developments Regarding Biden's Candidacy
Sources close to President Biden indicated on Thursday that he is starting to come to terms with the possibility that he may need to withdraw from the race due to increasing pressure from anxious party members. However, one insider cautioned that he has not made a definitive decision yet, after weeks of firmly stating that nothing could force him out.
As the crisis surrounding his presidency deepens, Biden is facing discouraging polling results showing significant losses in critical battleground states. Reports reveal that discussions among his advisers are escalating, with some speculating that an announcement endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor could come soon, although specifics about timing remain uncertain given Biden's isolation due to a recent COVID-19 diagnosis.
Conversations within Biden’s circle have intensified, driven by recent developments such as former Speaker Nancy Pelosi's strong concerns, new state polling data highlighting the dwindling chances of an electoral win, and key donors opting to withdraw support. Advisors are now contemplating logistics for an announcement should Biden choose to exit the race.
Many Democrats, previously distraught about Biden's commitment to continue, are beginning to sense a shift. However, cautious optimism remains as they navigate the unpredictable nature of Biden's decision-making.
Publicly, Biden's team continues to present a united front, asserting Biden’s determination to remain the party's nominee and pursue reelection. Senior advisors maintain that the race remains competitive, with support from family and allies emphasizing Biden’s history of overcoming challenges.
Nonetheless, the growing chorus of calls from fellow Democrats for Biden to reconsider his candidacy—particularly from influential figures such as Representatives Raskin and Senator Tester—reflects a serious concern about the implications for the party’s chances in the upcoming election.
As the situation unfolds, Biden's public appearances and support from party leaders will be closely monitored, adding an additional layer of complexity to the dynamics of the 2024 election landscape.
Read more from The New York Times on this developing story.