TL/DR –
Democratic anxiety over President Biden’s fitness to run for re-election has escalated, with the first sitting member of Congress, Representative Lloyd Doggett of Texas, asking Biden to withdraw due to his performance in a recent debate. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island openly asked for assurances about Biden’s “condition”. These concerns come alongside fears that Biden’s performance could impact critical races for Democratic control of the House and Senate, potentially threatening the balance of power under a potential Trump presidency.
Democrats Express Concern Over Biden’s Re-election Prospects
Latest 2024 presidential polls available here. Tuesday saw increased anxiety within the Democratic party regarding President Biden’s chances for re-election. The first sitting Congress member called for his withdrawal, accompanied by vocal concerns from other significant officials who previously supported the President.
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island publicly sought assurances about Biden’s “condition” following a disappointing debate performance. Senator Peter Welch of Vermont criticized the Biden campaign for its dismissive attitude towards concerns raised. Furthermore, Representative Lloyd Doggett of Texas expressed concern that Biden’s weak debate performance has disqualified him from future candidacy.
Although the majority of Democrats remain publicly supportive of Biden, frustration is increasingly expressed out in the open. This shift happened a day after Biden’s prime time address, where he attempted to appease concerns about his public speaking abilities.
Anxiety among lawmakers, strategists, and operatives is fueled by fears that Biden’s missteps could cost him the presidency and prevent Democrats from winning critical races. These would decide control of the House and Senate, potentially leaving unchecked power during a potential Trump presidency.
Representative Mike Quigley, Democrat of Illinois, emphasized on CNN that Biden’s decision impacts not only the White House but also who will serve in the Senate and the House. This could have implications for decades to come.
Republicans Capitalize on Biden’s Condition
Republicans plan to exploit questions around Biden’s mental acuity and fitness for office to challenge vulnerable Democrats. This puts Democrats running in states where Biden will campaign, such as Wisconsin and Arizona, in an awkward position.
Representative Matt Cartwright of Pennsylvania affirmed his independence amidst the challenging political climate, stating he is running a different race in his community. In contrast, his opponent, Rob Bresnahan, ties him to a diminished President.
Some Democrats believe that if Biden continues to trail Trump in the polls, the party might divert resources to maintaining the Senate and reclaiming the House rather than contesting the presidency. This echoes the Republican strategy during the 1996 election when Bob Dole was significantly trailing, leading to the GOP retaining control of Congress.
Reporting contributions by Luke Broadwater, Maggie Haberman, Maya C. Miller, and Aishvarya Kavi.
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