Former President Barack Obama has reportedly advised President Joe Biden to seriously consider withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race. As pressure mounts from within the Democratic Party, speculation is growing that Biden may announce his withdrawal soon.
According to a media report, Obama has only spoken with Biden once since the contentious presidential debate with Trump and believes the president’s path to victory has dramatically diminished. Despite this, Obama has emphasized that the decision to step down must come from Biden himself.
This revelation comes after a report suggesting that many Democratic leaders and close associates are urging Biden to step aside as early as this weekend. One senior House Democratic told the media, “It feels the most real it’s ever been.” Another aide added that while the chances of Biden pulling out are high, the exact timing remains uncertain.
Publicly, Biden has maintained his commitment to being the Democratic nominee, stating that only God or a “medical condition” would compel him to withdraw. His family, including First Lady Jill Biden and son Hunter, have supported his decision to remain in the race. However, privately, Biden has started to acknowledge the challenges posed by his age and health, as recent polls indicate he is trailing behind former President Donald Trump.
In recent conversations with top congressional Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Biden has been confronted with stark realities. They warned that not only could he lose the presidency, but he might also jeopardize Democratic control of Congress. One media source suggests that Obama has received calls from concerned Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and has shared his views on the viability of Biden’s candidacy.”
A source familiar with Obama’s perspective explained that the former president continues to act as a counselor for Biden, offering his honest views while respecting Biden’s autonomy. “He believes Joe Biden has been an outstanding president and is protective of him personally and of the Biden administration’s strong and historic accomplishments,” the source added.
Despite the growing internal pressure, official statements from top Democrats deny that Biden is being directly coerced into dropping out. A spokesperson for Jeffries shared that the House Democratic leader’s recent private meeting with Biden involved a frank discussion about the future. Still, any further characterization of the conversation is speculative.
As the situation develops, Rep. Adam Schiff, who is expected to win a Senate seat in California, publicly expressed his concerns. “While the choice to withdraw from the campaign is President Biden’s alone, I believe it is time for him to pass the torch,” Schiff stated. “And in doing so, secure his legacy of leadership by allowing us to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election.”
Adding to the urgency, Biden recently tested positive for COVID-19, leading to the cancellation of his campaign trip to Nevada. This health setback has intensified the conversation about his ability to continue his campaign. The White House described his symptoms as “mild,” but upon his arrival at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, Biden appeared physically weakened, needing assistance to get into his vehicle.
With growing doubts about Biden’s candidacy, the Democratic National Committee is preparing for potential contingencies. If Biden steps down, an open convention—the first in over 50 years—could ensue. Delegates would vote multiple rounds to select a new nominee, transforming the event into a dramatic and highly accelerated campaign within the convention.