According to multiple sources, several senior House Democrats are suggesting that President Biden should consider ending his reelection campaign following his recent debate performance.
During a recent Zoom meeting with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Representatives Jerry Nadler, Mark Takano, Adam Smith, and Joe Morelle expressed their belief that Mr. Biden should withdraw from the race. This information comes from a person who was on the call and three other individuals familiar with the meeting.
According to a member on the call and a person familiar with the meeting, Representatives Jim Himes of Connecticut, Don Beyer of Virginia, and Jamie Raskin of Maryland voiced doubts about the president’s electoral prospects.
Beyer’s office reiterated their support for Mr. Biden, despite earlier reports that may have indicated otherwise. Following the publication of the call, Beyer released a statement expressing his support for Mr. Biden.
Rep. Susan Wild, representing Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District, voiced her concerns about President Biden’s electability at the top of the ticket, echoing the worries of Americans nationwide.
“It is not helpful to the country for this difficult process to play out amidst leaks and rumors,” Wild said. “The Democratic Caucus in Congress is a very diverse group, and there are many opinions about what should next happen. For that reason, I’ve always felt it important that people are able to speak their minds in a confidential setting, so that we can all benefit from what others are thinking. In the coming days and weeks, I will operate as I always have, continuing to have these important conversations while keeping the best interests of my constituents at the forefront of every decision and statement I make.”
The meeting took place following a gathering of House Democratic leaders last week, prompted by a gradual departure of Democratic lawmakers who have expressed their desire for him to resign. Over the weekend, Rep. Angie Craig, who represents a district in Minnesota, joined other House Democrats in urging the president to withdraw from the race. The focus will likely be on the president’s support in Congress as lawmakers return from recess this week.
Meanwhile, Mr. Biden has shown determination in recent days, affirming his intention to continue in the race despite reservations from certain members of his party. During an interview with ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos on Friday, Mr. Biden dismissed the question of whether he would step down if there were calls from the party’s leaders in Congress, stating confidently that “they’re not going to do that.”