MILWAUKEE (AP) — President Joe Biden delivered a forceful and defensive response to centrist Democrats during a tense Saturday meeting, dismissing concerns about his reelection campaign and his national security credentials as “crap.” This strong reaction came as Biden sought to reassure the New Democrat Coalition about his ability to lead the party to victory in the upcoming election.
Biden Confronts Criticism
Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.), a respected centrist within the Democratic caucus, expressed concerns about voters’ confidence in Biden’s national security credentials. “I don’t want to hear that crap,” Biden retorted, raising his voice to defend his foreign policy achievements, including the rebuilding of NATO, according to three anonymous sources familiar with the meeting.
Crow persisted, arguing that Biden’s accomplishments were not resonating with voters. This exchange highlighted the growing tension within the party as Biden’s candidacy faces scrutiny.
Addressing Tough Questions
Biden initiated the call by encouraging members to present their “hard questions” about his candidacy and age, aiming to address doubts following his underwhelming debate performance last month. “I hear your concerns: Will I bring your election down? Will we keep the White House?” Biden said, inviting candid feedback.
At least three members raised concerns about Biden’s reelection prospects. Besides Crow, Rep. Marc Veasey (D-Texas) questioned Biden’s strategy to regain momentum since the debate, and Rep. Chrissy Houlahan expressed worries about Biden’s polling in Pennsylvania.
Defending His Record
Throughout the call, Biden detailed his record of achievements in office, countering the concerns raised by the centrists. He dismissed polling worries, asserting that the numbers were improving. Despite the tough questions, no Democrats directly urged Biden to withdraw from the race.
Some members of the centrist group have privately shared their concerns and brought them to House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who met with Biden on Thursday to relay these issues.
Calls for Action
“Moving forward we expect President Biden to do everything in his power to demonstrate to the American people that Democrats will keep the White House and flip the House in November,” said New Democrat Chair Ann Kuster (D-N.H.) in a statement following the call.
Progressive Support
Earlier, Biden had a more supportive conversation with progressive Democrats. Chair Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) described the discussion as “productive and engaging,” highlighting Biden as a “champion for working people.”
This series of meetings underscores the internal challenges Biden faces within his party as he gears up for the reelection campaign, balancing the concerns of both centrist and progressive factions.
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