Years ago, a veteran journalist corrected me for assuming what someone believed instead of what they actually said. “We know what they say. But we can’t know what they believe,” my colleague advised me. And that lesson holds true now as we navigate the complex thoughts and opinions of Congressional Democrats regarding President Biden’s mental acuity and calls for him to step aside.
As reporters chased Congressional Democrats throughout Capitol Hill this week, the silence of many lawmakers spoke volumes. While some openly declared their unwavering support for President Biden, others remained notably quiet or offered cryptic statements hinting at underlying concerns.
For example, Rep. Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey and Rep. Pat Ryan of New York, both representing swing districts, called for President Biden to step aside, expressing doubts about his ability to win. However, when pressed further, many Democrats evaded direct questions or simply chose to remain silent on the matter.
Even high-profile figures like Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Sen. Elizabeth Warren dodged inquiries about President Biden’s future, highlighting the delicate nature of the issue within the party. Some lawmakers, like Rep. Susan Wild of Pennsylvania, shared concerns behind closed doors but maintained a neutral stance in public.
The internal discussions among Democrats have remained confidential, with calls for President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race circulating among House Democrats. Sen. Peter Welch of Vermont became the first Senate Democrat to publicly urge President Biden to step aside, signaling a potential shift in the party’s stance.
Despite reports of lawmakers expressing reservations about President Biden’s mental state in private conversations, many Democrats reiterated their support for him in public statements. Rep. Don Beyer of Virginia, for instance, faced questions about his previous comments but reaffirmed his commitment to President Biden’s candidacy.
Amid growing uncertainty and speculation, House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar emphasized the party’s unity against former President Trump while acknowledging the ongoing discussions about President Biden’s electoral viability. As Democrats navigate these internal deliberations, the focus remains on finding a path forward that aligns with the best interests of the American people.
In the coming weeks, Democrats will likely continue to grapple with the question of President Biden’s candidacy, balancing loyalty to the party with concerns about his electability. While the conversations may remain whispered and veiled for now, the underlying tensions and divisions within the party are becoming increasingly apparent. As the political landscape evolves, Democrats face a critical moment of introspection and decision-making as they seek to navigate the road ahead.
