New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd recently described President Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race as a "coup" orchestrated by powerful figures within the Democratic Party.

Dowd's recent NYT column paints a picture of a divided Democratic Party, with key figures quietly -- but forcefully -- compelling Biden to step aside, citing concerns over his ability to effectively campaign and serve as president for another term and effectively vindicating Donald Trump's take on the events, as Fox News reports.

The noted liberal pundit characterized Biden's exit as a "jaw-dropping putsch," signaling a forced removal that shocked many, both within the party and among the public.

Biden announced his decision to withdraw at the end of July, a move that caught many off guard. According to Dowd, this announcement followed intense, behind-the-scenes efforts by influential Democrats who believed Biden was not in a position to lead the party to victory in the upcoming election.

Despite their efforts, prominent Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have worked to downplay any role in pushing Biden out.

Democratic Leaders Respond to the Alleged Coup

Dowd revealed that since Biden's withdrawal, communication between him and some Democratic leaders has been strained. Pelosi, who has publicly praised Biden and suggested that he deserves a place on Mount Rushmore, has reportedly been unable to speak with the president since his announcement. This strained relationship hints at deeper fractures within the party, despite the outward show of unity.

Pelosi's mixed feelings about the situation were evident in Dowd's column. Dowd described Pelosi as being conflicted over her role in the events leading up to Biden's departure.

While Pelosi may have played a part in the behind-the-scenes maneuvering, she seemed reluctant to fully acknowledge her involvement. Dowd’s commentary suggested that Biden might have felt betrayed by Pelosi, with the columnist noting, "Et tu, Nancy? Biden must have thought."

Kamala Harris Caught in the Crossfire

Vice President Kamala Harris has also been affected by the political upheaval within the Democratic Party. Dowd pointed out that tensions have arisen between Biden's and Harris's staffs, with Harris facing hesitations from key party figures, including former President Barack Obama, Pelosi, and Schumer, regarding their endorsements. These hesitations have added another layer of complexity to the already fraught situation.

Despite these tensions, Biden has endorsed Harris as his preferred successor. However, Dowd noted that prominent Democrats have been slow to throw their support behind her. Pelosi and the Obamas, in particular, delayed their endorsements, reportedly hoping to see more moderate candidates emerge in what Dowd described as an "open mini-primary." This delay has cast a shadow over Harris's campaign, raising questions about her ability to unite the party and secure a victory in the general election.

Ron Klain Criticizes Biden's Ouster

The fallout from Biden's departure has not been limited to tensions within the party's leadership. Former Biden chief of staff Ron Klain has publicly expressed his disapproval of the way Biden was pushed out. In an interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper, Klain argued that Biden had fairly secured the Democratic nomination through the democratic process and was determined to win the White House again.

Klain's comments highlight the internal divisions within the Democratic Party and underscore the controversial nature of the decision to pressure Biden to step down. While some, like Klain, believe Biden was unfairly ousted, others in the party view his departure as a necessary step to prevent a potentially disastrous election outcome.

Implications for the 2024 Election

Dowd's column also touched on the broader implications of Biden's withdrawal for the 2024 election. She opined that those who orchestrated Biden's exit should be proud, arguing that they likely saved the Democratic Party from a "crushing defeat" that could have paved the way for Donald Trump to return to power. Dowd's assessment reflects the high stakes of the upcoming election and the difficult choices facing the Democratic Party as it seeks to maintain control of the White House.

Despite the controversy surrounding Biden's departure, the Democratic Party must now focus on uniting behind a new candidate. With Harris as the likely nominee, the party will need to work to heal the divisions exposed by Biden's withdrawal and ensure that it presents a unified front in the general election.

Conclusion: A Party in Turmoil

Maureen Dowd's column has shed light on the inner workings of the Democratic Party during a tumultuous time.

President Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 race, described by Dowd as a "coup," has revealed deep divisions within the party's leadership.

With influential figures like Pelosi and Schumer attempting to distance themselves from accusations of involvement, and tensions between Biden's and Harris's teams, the road to the 2024 election is fraught with challenges.

As the party moves forward, it must address these internal conflicts and rally behind its new candidate in its effort to thwart the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House.