Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

4 minutes read. Updated 4:00PM GMT Thurs, 4 July, 2024

President Joe Biden is fighting to preserve his political career, facing an escalating wave of skepticism from his own party. After a notably poor debate performance, many Democrats are questioning his ability to defeat former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election. The urgency of the situation has prompted Biden to gather his family at the White House in Washington, D.C., on Independence Day, seeking a reprieve from the news cycle to strategize for what could be the most crucial 48 hours of his political journey.

Amid swirling speculation about his potential withdrawal from the race, Biden firmly declared his intention to stay the course. He convened a meeting with 20 Democratic governors at the White House to demonstrate his vitality and capability to lead the nation for another term. This Friday, he faces a significant test with an interview on ABC News, which could prove even more challenging than his recent CNN debate. Every public appearance Biden makes is now scrutinized for any signs of weakness, adding to the perception of a faltering commander-in-chief.

Despite efforts to explain his debate struggles, including claims of jet lag from recent European trips, Biden’s team has failed to quell concerns about his fitness for office. The White House initially stated that Biden had not undergone any medical examination following the debate. However, a subsequent statement revealed that he was checked by his physician days later for a cold. This inconsistency has further fueled doubts about his capacity to meet the demanding responsibilities of the presidency.

The focus remains on Biden’s dwindling campaign rather than the threats he has warned about, such as the potential dangers posed by Trump. A senior administration official likened the erosion of Biden’s support to “waves crashing into the shore,” highlighting a growing disillusionment among Democratic donors, elected officials, and voters.

On Wednesday, Rep. Raúl Grijalva of Arizona joined the call for Biden to step aside, expressing a need for new leadership. This sentiment is echoed by other Democrats, although many have yet to voice their opinions publicly. Polls also reflect a troubling trend for Biden, with Trump gaining a lead among likely voters. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre faced tough questions about Biden’s health and performance, further emphasizing the challenges ahead.

In response to the growing pressure, Biden has intensified his outreach efforts. He has contacted key Democratic leaders, recorded radio interviews for swing states, and hosted Democratic governors at the White House. While some governors offered public support, others, like Minnesota’s Tim Walz and Maryland’s Wes Moore, stressed the importance of honest feedback and the need for Biden to address voter concerns.

Speculation about potential successors is rampant, with names like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer being mentioned. Newsom publicly declared his support for Biden, but the political landscape remains uncertain. The possibility of Biden stepping down could lead to a power struggle within the party, complicating the path to the 2024 election.

Biden’s future hangs in the balance as he faces a critical juncture in his reelection campaign. His ability to reshape public perceptions and prove his competence will be tested in the coming days. With the stakes higher than ever, the president must navigate a complex political terrain to secure his place as the Democratic nominee.

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