TL/DR –
President Biden has reassured Democrats that he is prepared to stay in the race for the 2024 elections, amid doubts over his candidacy. This follows a debate performance in June that left many Democrats worried about his ability to win votes and serve another term. Biden has been working to stave off further defections from Democratic lawmakers, including through a letter in which he wrote, “I wouldn’t be running again if I did not absolutely believe I was the best person to beat Donald Trump in 2024.”
Biden Expresses Firm Commitment to 2024 Presidential Race
President Biden attempted to discourage further deflections among Democratic lawmakers on Monday, stating in a letter his strong commitment to the race and encouraging his party to move past internal discord over his candidacy.
Biden Addresses Congressional Democrats
“I am fully aware of the burden the nominee of our party carries,” Biden wrote to congressional Democrats. “I wish to state unequivocally: I believe I am the best person to beat Donald Trump in 2024.”
Hesitation Among Democratic Lawmakers
Following Biden’s debate performance on June 27, a considerable number of Democratic lawmakers have publicly and privately expressed doubt over Biden’s ability to convince voters he can effectively serve another term.
Biden’s Response to Doubt
“We have to move forward now,” Biden stated in his letter. “We have one job: to defeat Donald Trump. Any weakening of resolve or lack of clarity only helps Trump and hurts us.”
House Democrats Call for Biden to Step Down
As of Sunday, nine House Democrats had called for Biden to exit the race. Additionally, at least 18 current and former top Democrats had publicly raised concerns about Biden’s capacity to defeat Trump.
Facing Increased Scrutiny This Week
As Biden faces growing pressure, he will host the 75th annual NATO summit this week in Washington. European leaders will be observing Biden’s appearance and condition closely due to heightened anxieties about a potential second Trump term.
Biden’s Outreach to Democrats on Capitol Hill
The Biden campaign has increased its engagement with Democrats on Capitol Hill to prevent further defections. Biden called 20 Democrats last week to assure them that he is listening to their concerns, as many members had not heard from the president amid the crisis over his candidacy.
Tensions Among Democrats
Some Democrats are holding off on deciding whether to call publicly for Biden to end his reelection bid, while others say the president’s increased schedule and determination to fight are too little, too late.
Fear of a Second Term for Trump
Many Democrats are concerned that a second term for Trump would be disastrous for the country, given his threats to target political adversaries and further disregard longstanding norms.
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