Reed Hastings, the co-founder of Netflix and a prominent Democratic Party donor, has publicly called for President Biden to step aside from the Democratic presidential ticket. In an email to The Times, Hastings stated that Biden should make way for a more energetic Democratic leader who can defeat Trump and ensure the safety and prosperity of the country.
This bold statement from Hastings, who has been one of the biggest donors to the Democratic Party in recent years, reflects a growing sentiment among Democratic megadonors. While Biden and White House officials have stated that he has no intention of stepping aside, Hastings’ public declaration highlights a crack in the foundation of support for the president.
Hastings and his wife, Patty Quillin, have been generous donors to the Democratic Party, contributing over $20 million to support various Democratic causes. Most notably, they supported Biden’s presidential campaigns in 2020 and 2024, with significant donations to super PACs aimed at helping House and Senate Democrats.
In addition to his philanthropic and political endeavors, Hastings has been closely associated with education reform, while Quillin has focused on racial justice issues. Hastings has also supported Governor Gavin Newsom of California, who is being considered as a potential replacement for Biden. In 2021, Hastings donated $3 million to help Newsom defeat a recall election.
As the co-founder of Netflix, Hastings has played a pivotal role in shaping the entertainment industry. He stepped down as the chief executive in January 2023 to focus on his philanthropic work, political activities, and his passion for skiing.
Hastings’ public call for Biden to step aside comes at a time when other influential figures in Hollywood, such as power agent Ari Emanuel, are starting to voice their concerns about the current administration. This growing chorus of discontent among Democratic donors and supporters could have significant implications for Biden’s presidency and the future of the Democratic Party.
In conclusion, Hastings’ statement underscores the challenges facing the Biden administration and the Democratic Party as they navigate a complex political landscape. The calls for new leadership reflect a desire for a stronger and more effective Democratic candidate who can lead the party to victory in the upcoming elections and address the pressing issues facing the nation.