A revealing new book uncovers the Democratic Party's behind-the-scenes preparations for potential scenarios involving Joe Biden's presidency and candidacy.
According to the New York Post, Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes' upcoming book "Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House" details how Democrats quietly developed contingency plans as early as 2023 for scenarios including Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race or death in office.
The Democratic National Committee conducted confidential meetings to game out various possibilities regarding Biden's candidacy. These scenarios ranged from Biden stepping aside before the primaries to withdrawing after securing delegates, demonstrating the party's serious concerns about his ability to complete a full campaign or term.
Kamala Harris's former communications director, Jamal Simmons, took concrete steps to prepare for a potential presidential transition. He developed a detailed communications strategy and created a "death-pool roster" of judges who could quickly swear Harris into office if needed.
While Simmons never shared these plans directly with Harris before leaving his position in January 2023, he requested immediate notification if anything happened to Biden. His preparations highlighted the gravity of concerns within Democratic circles about Biden's health and capability to serve.
After Biden's withdrawal from the race in July 2024, Simmons publicly urged the president to resign before inauguration to allow Harris to make history as the first female president. The suggestion came during a CNN appearance but Biden did not act on it.
One veteran Democratic operative revealed the party's complicated position on Biden's withdrawal, noting that while Harris wasn't their ideal candidate, she at least "has a pulse." The sentiment reflected growing anxiety about Biden's fitness for office.
According to Allen and Parnes, former President Barack Obama directly challenged Biden about his campaign strategy. Obama reportedly asked," What is your path?"
Biden's internal response demonstrated his frustration: "What's my path? What's your f—ing path?"
The June 27 debate against Donald Trump proved to be a turning point when Biden struggled to complete thoughts and answer questions coherently. Two days later, at a donor reception hosted by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Biden required fluorescent tape on the floor to guide his movements, further alarming party officials.
A complex web of preparations and contingency planning preceded Biden's eventual withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race on July 21.
The Democratic National Committee's secret meetings beginning in 2023 explored multiple scenarios for Biden's potential exit from the race, demonstrating the party's early recognition of challenges ahead.
These preparations culminated in Biden's decision to step aside following his problematic debate performance against Donald Trump, marking a significant shift in Democratic leadership and strategy for the future.
