Democrats in the House have returned to Washington with a critical agenda: addressing President Joe Biden’s potential candidacy as the congressional recess concludes. Since June’s debate, an increasing number of lawmakers have expressed doubts about Biden’s ability to compete in the upcoming race.
Biden has been making efforts to dismiss any speculation of him bowing out. Just before a crucial Tuesday meeting, a smaller contingent of Democrats from key swing districts held an emotionally charged meeting, complete with tears.
At the full caucus meeting of the Democrats, opinions were divided. One lawmaker described the smaller meeting to Axios as “intense.” Another participant captured the prevailing sentiment, saying it was “pretty much unanimous” that Biden “has got to step down,” noting, “There were actual tears from people, and not for Biden.”
While some lawmakers defended Biden, others questioned his ability to compete against former President Donald Trump, according to attendees. A House Democrat present at both meetings remarked, “Most of our caucus is still with him … meaning he’ll stay in. Which sucks for our country.”
Following the meeting on Tuesday, one lawmaker who had previously said to Axios that the revolt was “over” reiterated their stance, stating the meeting only solidified that perception. “There were no surprises there,” the lawmaker commented.
On Monday, Biden released a lengthy letter addressing his future. His two-page letter exposed a window into his thinking as he pushes back against party leaders who fear he is jeopardizing not only their chances of keeping the White House but also preserving a Senate majority and winning back the U.S. House.
The embattled president has rebuffed calls to step aside, saying it is time for Democrats to “come together, move forward as a unified party, and defeat Donald Trump.”
Biden has tried to confirm he will not be dropping out of the race and cited strong electoral wins in state Democratic primaries as evidence that the party’s grassroots stand behind him as the nominee. He followed up the letter with a Monday morning appearance on MSNBC, where he warned Democrats against trying to force his hand.
“The bottom line here is that we’re not going anywhere — I am not going anywhere,” he said. “I had a bad night,” he said of his debate. “But the fact of the matter is — if there was something that was wrong that night, it’s not like it’s one night and it goes away. That’s why I’ve been out, I’ve been testing myself.”
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