Biden Allegedly Frustrated with Obama Over Pressure to Exit Race
President Joe Biden is said to be finding himself increasingly frustrated with pressure from within his own party to drop out of the 2024 presidential race.
Despite discussions among influential figures that include former President Barack Obama, Biden reportedly feels a sense of betrayal from some, but is committed to continuing his campaign, as Newsweek reports.
Biden's Recovery and Pressure to Step Aside
Biden has been recovering from COVID-19 during this turbulent political time. Reports indicate that dozens of lawmakers have urged him to end his campaign since the first presidential debate.
Despite this, Biden's close allies, including Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have not publicly opposed his candidacy.
Sourced information reveals Biden's irritation with these calls for him to step aside, pointing especially to Obama's apparent behind-the-scenes influence. Biden reportedly perceives Obama as a key figure behind the move to oust him, engaging in non-public discussions about his campaign's viability.
An anonymous source noted Biden's suspicion that recent media leaks are coordinated to increase pressure on him. "He has been around politics long enough to assume that the leaks appearing in the media in recent days are being coordinated," the source stated.
Obama's Concerns About Biden's Campaign
Obama has expressed concerns about Biden's chances of winning in November, sharing these views with his allies. According to reports, Obama believes Biden needs to think seriously about the viability of his campaign, although he has emphasized that the ultimate decision rests with Biden.
Pelosi has echoed these sentiments, citing polling data that suggests Biden may not defeat Trump. The former speaker warned that his continued candidacy could potentially harm other Democratic candidates in the upcoming elections. However, Pelosi has also argued that anonymous sources have misrepresented her conversations with Biden.
Investigative journalist Carl Bernstein has reported on the emotional toll these events have taken on Biden. In discussions with White House sources, Bernstein noted that Biden feels "abandoned" by his party -- a sentiment that has moved him from contemplation to recognizing the formidable challenges his candidacy faces.
Public Statements and Political Calculations
Despite the growing pressure, two individuals familiar with Biden's thinking confirmed as of last Friday that he had not changed his decision to remain in the race. Democratic Representative Gerald Connolly commented on the situation, highlighting the harsh nature of political life. "Very painful," Connolly said, "I think it just shows the cold calculus of politics."
Lawmakers urging Biden to drop out have not overlooked his achievements during his first term. New Mexico Sen. Martin Heinrich praised Biden's leadership, suggesting that stepping aside would solidify his legacy. Heinrich released a formal statement advocating for party unity behind a candidate capable of defeating Trump.
Sen. Jon Tester of Montana also advised Biden against seeking reelection. In his statement, Tester acknowledged Biden's dedication to public service and the country but expressed his belief that Biden should not pursue another term.
Commitment to Winning a Second Term
In response to these developments, Biden's campaign chair, Jen O'Malley Dillon, reiterated on MSNBC that Biden remains resolute in his aim to win the race. "You have heard from the president directly time and again: He is in this race to win, and he is our nominee, and he's going to be our president for a second term," she stated.
Newsweek reached out to Biden's campaign seeking comments on recent reports from the New York Times about the current state of play within the campaign. However, no new statements were released by the campaign as of now.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Biden's determination to stay in the fight for a second term stands firm despite internal party tensions and the scrutiny of influential allies. The unfolding drama signals a pivotal moment for the Democratic party and its prospects in the 2024 election.
Conclusion
The tension surrounding President Biden's 2024 campaign has been fueled by pressure to withdraw, especially highlighted by the involvement of figures like Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi.
Despite the internal discord and calls for him to reconsider his candidacy, Biden currently remains resolute in his decision to run for a second term.
Statements from Biden's campaign chair reaffirm his commitment to his candidacy, and the president continues to forge ahead, determined to secure the Democratic nomination once more.