Democratic Leaders Encourage Representatives to Persuade Biden to Resign

Top Democratic lawmakers are expressing deep concerns about President Joe Biden’s poor performance in his recent debate against his rival, former President Donald Trump. Former President Barack Obama has reportedly become “more pessimistic” about Biden’s chances of winning the election, privately stating that Biden’s path has become more difficult after his shaky debate performance. Some lawmakers, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, are urging Biden to step down, fearing that his presidency could harm their chances of holding the Senate or flipping the House if he loses in November.

There is frustration among some members of Congress over Biden’s lack of communication with Democratic leaders, with one House Democrat questioning why Biden hasn’t reached out to congressional leadership. Lawmakers are also concerned about Biden’s mental and physical decline, speculating that his family may not want him to face skeptics. The stakes of maintaining a Senate majority and retaking the House are high for Democrats following Biden’s debate performance, with reports of panic among White House officials.

In response to Biden’s performance, top Democratic donors are planning to invest significant amounts of money in House and Senate candidates as a precaution against a second Trump term. Even if Biden were to remain in office, some lawmakers believe he would need to make substantial changes, including replacing his top campaign advisers. There are mixed opinions among Democrats about Biden’s future, with Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett suggesting that Biden make the “painful and difficult decision” to withdraw from the race.

Former President Barack Obama has privately conveyed to allies that Biden’s path to reelection has become more challenging after the debate, offering his support to the embattled former vice president. Obama reportedly spoke with Biden by phone after the debate but it is unclear how directly he addressed Biden’s performance and reelection prospects in their conversation.