Lagatar24 Desk
Milwaukee, US: US President Joe Biden is expected to make a significant announcement regarding his re-election bid amidst growing health concerns and declining poll numbers, as reported by several media outlets. Senior Democratic leaders have suggested that Biden, 81, may need to withdraw from the race following a poor debate performance, a failed assassination attempt on his rival Donald Trump, and his recent bout with COVID-19.
According to The New York Times, individuals close to President Biden have indicated that he may be coming to terms with the possibility of not being able to secure a victory in November. “Several people close to President Biden said on Thursday that they believe he has begun to accept the idea that he may not be able to win in November and may have to drop out of the race, bowing to the growing demands of many anxious members of his party,” the report stated.
Biden is currently isolating at his Delaware residence after testing positive for COVID-19. Top Democratic leaders, including former President Barack Obama, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have reportedly urged him to step down to prevent the party from losing control of the White House, the Senate, and the House of Representatives.
The New York Times also reported that Obama has privately acknowledged Biden’s slim chances of winning. “In the past day or so, former President Barack Obama has told friends who have called him that Biden’s path to victory is narrow,” according to sources familiar with the conversations.
The Washington Post noted that Pelosi has intensified her efforts behind the scenes to persuade Biden to exit the campaign. Additionally, Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly considering potential running mates, with names such as Senator Mark Kelly, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper being discussed, according to The Hill.
Biden’s announcement on his re-election bid is anticipated to follow the conclusion of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
One of Biden’s confidants mentioned that he has not yet finalized his decision to withdraw, despite weeks of asserting his commitment to the race. However, another source suggested that “reality is setting in,” and an announcement from Biden endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor could come soon.
As the Democratic Party braces for this critical decision, all eyes are on President Biden as he contemplates his next steps in the face of mounting challenges.