President Joe Biden has unequivocally stated his intention to seek reelection in 2024, despite growing concerns within the Democratic Party following his recent debate performance.
In a statement shared on X by a senior aide, Biden declared, “I am running. I am the leader of the Democratic Party. No one is pushing me out.” This comes amid a wave of unease among Democrats on Capitol Hill, fueled by Biden’s perceived sluggish engagement with both party leadership and the broader Democratic caucus.
These concerns were amplified after the recent debate, which some believe highlighted Biden’s preparedness for another term. In response to the growing anxieties, Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris participated in a Democratic National Committee call, delivering a motivational speech emphasizing the importance of the upcoming election.
“I’m going to get back up after being knocked down,” Biden echoed his post-debate resolve, according to the Associated Press.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to mitigate the increasing unease among Democratic allies. The dissatisfaction with Biden’s debate performance and the subsequent explanations offered by the President and his staff have sparked discontent within the party. Some Democrats have expressed that Biden’s delayed response to the criticism has placed the party in a challenging predicament.
Despite these internal pressures, the New York Times reported earlier today that Biden told an ally he is still weighing whether to stay in the election race. However, his recent statement suggests he has made his decision.
The upcoming months will be crucial for Biden as he seeks to solidify his position within the party and address the concerns of his allies.