In a recent development, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett from Texas has become the first Democrat to publicly urge President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race. Doggett criticized the president’s debate performance against Donald Trump, stating that he failed to effectively defend his accomplishments. Despite Biden having saved democracy from Trump in 2020, Doggett believes he should not lead the country into another Trump presidency in 2024.
During the White House press briefing on Tuesday, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that President Biden is suffering from a cold and that his reelection campaign remains active. Others Democrats, such as U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, have also expressed concerns about Biden’s appearance but stopped short of calling for his withdrawal. While Whitehouse wants transparency about the president’s health, Senate Leader Chuck Schumer has voiced his support for Biden, emphasizing their successful collaboration over the past four years.
The Democratic National Committee could officially nominate President Biden as its candidate in mid-July, leading up to the August convention in Chicago. Biden plans to engage with Democratic governors and other party leaders this week to discuss his future in politics. Time will tell whether Biden heeds the calls for his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.