President Joe Biden is currently encountering heightened pressure from within his party as he takes a hiatus from his re-election campaign due to a COVID-19 diagnosis.

Biden's campaign has been put on pause after his positive COVID-19 test results, and top Democratic leaders have privately urged him to reconsider his White House bid amid growing concerns, as the BBC reports.

The president announced his COVID19 status on Wednesday, explaining that his symptoms were mild. His press secretary noted that Biden will be isolating at his home in Delaware while continuing to perform his duties. This is the third time Biden has tested positive for the virus, despite having been vaccinated and receiving booster shots.

Top Democrats Express Concerns

Recently, significant Democratic figures such as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have expressed doubts about Biden's ability to secure re-election. Individually meeting with President Biden, the lawmakers conveyed their concerns about the implications his candidacy might have for holding control over Congress post-election.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also weighed in, privately telling Biden she fears he cannot beat Donald Trump in the upcoming election in November. The former president's presence as a strong contender has rattled many within the Democratic Party, especially after Biden's poor debate performance last month.

Covid-19 Infection Halts Campaign Activities

Biden's battle with COVID-19 has momentarily halted his campaign activities. Before the diagnosis announcement, Biden was seen engaging with supporters in Las Vegas, where he aimed to regain support among Hispanic voters -- a demographic where his influence has diminished since 2020.

In Las Vegas, Biden mingled with diners at a local Mexican restaurant, shaking hands and taking selfies. Yet, signs of fatigue were visible as he interacted with supporters. Later, reporters were taken abruptly from a campaign stop to the Las Vegas airport, as the president had to cancel a subsequent speech at UnidosUS.

Private Conversations and Speculations

Amid the campaign pause, Biden has faced increasing calls from within his party to step aside. About two dozen Democratic politicians, including California Rep. Adam Schiff, have suggested that Biden should allow another Democrat to step forward for the presidential race. Schiff asserted that while Biden has been one of the most consequential presidents in American history, stepping down would help him secure his legacy.

During private meetings held last week, both Schumer and Jeffries communicated their caucus’s concerns directly to Biden. While Schumer's office dismissed the reports as "idle speculation," they acknowledged that the Democratic leader conveyed the sentiments of his caucus.

Biden's Commitment and Health Updates

Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president’s physician, reported that Biden presented with upper respiratory symptoms and has been prescribed Paxlovid. Despite his illness, Biden declared on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) that he feels good and remains committed to his responsibilities.

"The president told both leaders he is the nominee of the party, he plans to win, and looks forward to working with both of them to pass his 100 days agenda to help working families," said White House spokesman Andrew Bates.

A spokesman for Jeffries stated that their conversation would remain private. Meanwhile, Pelosi communicated her belief that Biden's candidacy could harm the Democratic Party's chances of winning the House. This sentiment has been echoed by several party members, who have voiced concerns regarding Biden's ability to unite the party and win the general election.

Biden's Reluctance to Withdraw

During an interview with BET, Biden expressed hesitation about stepping down in a time of national divide but indicated he would consider dropping out if diagnosed with a significant medical condition. In the same interview, he emphasized the importance of unity within the Democratic Party as the election approaches.

Biden's frustration has also extended to external influences on the election. Another post on X conveyed his irritation with Elon Musk, suggesting that wealthy individuals like Musk were attempting to influence the election and encouraged supporters to donate to his campaign.

Growing Pressure from Democratic Leaders

The growing pressure from Democratic leaders like Schumer, Jeffries, and Pelosi highlights the internal struggle within the party as November approaches. With Biden's campaign temporarily on hold and his recent public appearances marred by visible fatigue, the question of his candidacy remains a topic of intense discussion among top Democrats.

As one of the most vital figures within the party, Biden's decision will undoubtedly shape the Democratic strategy moving forward. The next few weeks will be critical as Biden recovers from Covid-19 and navigates the political landscape marked by both internal and external pressures.

Conclusion

President Joe Biden's campaign has faced significant recent turbulence, compounded by his COVID-19 diagnosis.

Top Democratic leaders have privately urged him to reconsider his re-election bid due to concerns about his viability against Donald Trump and the potential impact on congressional control.

The president says he remains committed to his duties while isolating and has voiced his intent to continue running, despite visible signs of fatigue and increasing pressure from within his party.

The situation remains fluid as the Democratic Party grapples with its leadership and direction in the lead-up to the election.