Former President Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi have privately expressed concerns about President Joe Biden’s chances in the 2024 election, as per the reports. Both leaders are unsure about what steps to take next, as they see growing challenges in Biden’s campaign against Donald Trump.
Within the Democratic Party, there is an urgent need to end infighting and focus on defeating Trump. Party members are looking to Obama and Pelosi for guidance, as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer lacks Biden’s trust and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries doesn’t have a strong enough relationship with Biden to deliver critical messages effectively.
Discussions with over a dozen Congress members, operatives, and individuals close to Obama and Pelosi reveal a consensus that Biden’s candidature may be coming to an end. Many believe it is a matter of how, not if, this will unfold. They argue that if Obama and Pelosi believe Biden should stay in the race, they need to state it clearly and soon to prevent further damage just months before the election.
Many of Pelosi’s colleagues are looking to her to resolve the party’s turmoil. Some believe that the situation will be resolved if she advises Biden to withdraw from the race. Pelosi has spoken with Biden since a recent debate but hasn’t seen his decision to remain in the race as final.
Obama has refrained from making public comments for two weeks, which has left many leading Democrats feeling abandoned. After the debate, he posted on social media, “Bad debate nights happen. Trust me, I know,” echoing a sentiment he shared at a fundraiser for House Democrats.
Obama’s growing skepticism about Biden’s ability to win reelection is an open secret in Washington. His interactions with anxious Democratic donors and officials have been more about listening than giving firm positions.
The relationship between Biden and Obama is complex. Since leaving office, they have spoken less frequently. If Obama were to push Biden to step down, it might be seen through the prism of their past interactions. Biden might feel that Obama wasn’t supportive enough when he considered entering the 2016 Democratic primaries after his son Beau’s death.
At a recent fundraising event in Los Angeles, some expressed alarm at Biden’s condition. Obama questioned Biden’s decision to attend the event after a long trip, suggesting he might have been affected by jet lag. This event has fueled concerns about Biden’s ability to continue his campaign.
Pelosi recently cast doubt on Biden’s candidature during an appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe.” While advising colleagues to avoid embarrassing Biden, her comments have prompted more Democrats to call for Biden to step aside.
As Pelosi returns to San Francisco, the Democratic Party remains in a state of uncertainty and is looking for leadership during these turbulent times. Pelosi’s credibility and long-standing relationship with Biden make her a crucial figure in these discussions.
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