President Biden has recently stated that he would withdraw from the 2024 presidential race if polls indicated that he had no chance of winning. This comes after his previous comments that only divine intervention could prompt him to drop out. Amid growing concerns about his physical and mental capabilities, the 81-year-old president faced questions from reporters during a lengthy press conference following the NATO summit in Washington, D.C.
When asked if he would reconsider his candidacy if his team presented data showing Vice President Kamala Harris performing better against former President Trump, Biden responded with a firm “No.” He emphasized that no polls were suggesting he couldn’t win. However, just a week prior, he had mentioned that his political fate would depend on a message from a higher power rather than data or advice from allies.
Despite Biden’s assertions that he is in a strong position, some within his own party are calling for him to step aside. Three more House Democrats, including Rep. Jim Himes, have joined the ranks of those urging Biden to drop out, bringing the total number of Congressional Democrats making this plea to 20.
While a recent NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll showed Biden leading Trump by two points in a head-to-head matchup, the margin of error leaves room for uncertainty. When considering third-party options, Trump edges out Biden by one percentage point. The results of this poll indicate a tight race, adding to the pressure on Biden to make a decision about his candidacy.
Following his press conference, some of Biden’s supporters praised his performance, highlighting his foreign policy experience and leadership qualities. Rep. Steve Cohen from Tennessee commended Biden’s command of the issues discussed during the event, suggesting that he had convinced many people to support his continued candidacy.
As the debate within the Democratic Party intensifies, the spotlight remains on Biden and his future plans. The calls for him to withdraw from the race underscore the challenges he faces in securing another term in office. With the 2024 election season heating up, the decision-making process for President Biden becomes increasingly critical, with implications that could shape the course of the upcoming campaign.