In a surprising turn of events on Wednesday, Democratic Senator Peter Welch of Vermont urged President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. Welch, becoming the first Democratic senator to make such a request, emphasized that Biden’s withdrawal would be “for the good of the country.” He suggested Vice President Kamala Harris as a capable successor, highlighting the growing concerns among Democrats about Biden’s electability.
Constituents’ Concerns
Senator Welch shared that his constituents are deeply worried about Biden’s chances of winning the upcoming election. They fear a potential repeat of the 2020 contest against former President Donald Trump. Welch’s call for Biden to step aside reflects a broader anxiety within the party about securing a victory in 2024.
Pelosi’s Ambiguous Stance
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also commented on Biden’s candidacy, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his re-election bid. When asked if she supported Biden as the Democratic Party’s nominee, Pelosi stated, “It’s up to the president to decide if he’s going to run.” Her remarks, made during an interview with MSNBC, suggest that the decision is ultimately Biden’s, but she also emphasized the urgency, saying, “We’re all encouraging him to make that decision, because time is running short.”
George Clooney’s Doubts
Adding to the chorus of concern, prominent Hollywood donor George Clooney expressed doubts about Biden’s ability to win the 2024 election. Clooney’s remarks, along with Welch’s and Pelosi’s statements, signal a significant shift in the support structure that Biden has relied upon.
Implications for the Democratic Party
The Democratic Party faces a critical juncture as prominent figures within its ranks question Biden’s viability as a candidate. The growing calls for Biden to consider stepping aside highlight the urgency for the party to address these concerns and ensure a strong candidate for the 2024 election.
Next Steps for the Biden Campaign
As pressure mounts, all eyes are on President Biden to see how he will respond to these calls for his withdrawal. The coming weeks will be crucial as the Democratic Party navigates this internal debate and prepares for the upcoming election cycle.