In a significant political development, several senior House Democrats have called on President Joe Biden to reconsider his reelection bid. The calls were made during a private call convened by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on Sunday afternoon. Representatives Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Mark Takano (D-Calif.), and Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.) were among those who strongly urged Biden to step aside, according to sources familiar with the call.
Concerns about Biden’s prospects for the upcoming election were echoed by other Democrats, including Reps. Jim Himes (Conn.), Zoe Lofgren (Calif.), Don Beyer (Va.), and Rick Larsen (Wash.). The discontent among these key lawmakers suggests growing unease within the Democratic Party about Biden’s ability to secure a victory in November.
Despite the concerns, some members, like Rep. Don Beyer, reaffirmed their support for Biden. Beyer’s spokesperson, Aaron Fritschner, clarified on social media that Beyer supports the president, countering reports that suggested otherwise.
The internal party discord follows Biden’s recent interview with ABC News, which failed to alleviate worries about his campaign’s viability. During the interview, Biden’s assertion that only “the Lord almighty” could force him out of the race did not sit well with many Democrats. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) emphasized on MSNBC the importance of a pragmatic approach, stating, “This isn’t a decision for the Lord almighty. This is a real-world decision for real-world people in politics who care about our country.”
The discussion about Biden’s future is not limited to the House. Reports indicate that a group of Senate Democrats, led by Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), plans to discuss Biden’s path forward once they return to Washington.
Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has maintained a low profile on the issue publicly. However, he posted a Bible verse on social media before the call, suggesting a need for perseverance and faith. Jeffries’ message, “Do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go,” reflects the current state of uncertainty and determination within the party.
As Democrats prepare to return to Washington, the pressure mounts on President Biden to demonstrate his vitality and energy through unscripted events and town halls. The coming days will be crucial in determining the direction of Biden’s campaign and the Democratic Party’s strategy for the upcoming election.
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