President Biden faces growing pressure to withdraw from the presidential race 

Since his poor debate performance against Donald Trump, there have been increasing concerns about his suitability for re-election this year. The president is now facing more and more pressure from within his own party for him to withdraw from the race.

Biden and his team have given various reasons for his subpar performance on CNN, including a cold and jet lag from recent travels to France, California, and Italy, followed by rest at Camp David. Despite this, two Democratic lawmakers have openly called for Biden to step down, and a prominent ally has suggested the party might consider another candidate. 

Senior aides believe Biden has only a few days to prove his readiness before Democratic dissatisfaction reaches its peak.

Nevertheless, Biden remains resolute in his decision to run for re-election, dismissing rumours of his potential withdrawal. In a recent interview, he stated emphatically, “I am running… no one’s pushing me out. I’m not leaving. I’m in this race to the end and we’re going to win.”

Delaware Senator Chris Coons, one of Biden’s closest allies, acknowledged the urgency and importance of the situation. He described their conversation as direct and candid, with Biden seeking advice on how to regain confidence and support. Coons has suggested that the president engage in more unscripted, open-ended events to strengthen his candidacy.

However, some influential figures, like Netflix co-founder and major Democratic donor Reed Hastings, have called for Biden to exit the race. Hastings reportedly stated, “Biden needs to step aside to allow a vigorous Democratic leader to beat Trump and keep us safe and prosperous.”

Representative Jim Clyburn, a long-time friend and confidant of Biden, has proposed the idea of a “mini-primary” before the Democratic National Convention if Biden were to leave the race. This concept could pave the way for alternative choices during the virtual roll call before the convention, which is scheduled to begin on the 19th of August in Chicago.

Most Democratic lawmakers, however, are reportedly adopting a wait-and-see approach, awaiting further developments from new polling and Biden’s upcoming ABC News interview to better gauge the situation.