Amid struggles with debate performance and health issues, there's uncertainty around President Biden's campaign viability.
A report indicates that Obama has advised his allies that Biden should consider dropping out of the campaign.
According to Newsweek, Obama's worry stems from a combination of factors impacting Biden's current campaign, including a notably weak debate outing against former President Donald Trump last month. This event has amplified calls from some senior Democrats suggesting Biden should step aside.
Despite these internal concerns, President Biden has shown no signs of withdrawing. His decision comes amid diminishing polls and shrinking donor support, potentially smoothing the path for Trump's electoral campaign.
Obama's apprehensions were discussed in private conversations with several key Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The discussions were highlighted in a Washington Post report citing multiple sources close to the former president.
Adding to the campaign's challenges, Biden recently tested positive for COVID-19. This diagnosis forced him to cancel an important campaign event in Nevada, a critical engagement meant to court Latino leaders in a pivotal swing state.
Despite ongoing health issues, Biden has maintained that he will only consider leaving the race if deemed necessary by medical professionals. "I would consider dropping out of the race if my doctors said I had a medical condition," Biden remarked in a preview clip for an upcoming interview.
The compounded effect of health concerns and strategic political calculations has sparked widespread speculation about the President's future in the race. This situation is especially precarious as it coincides with an increased security risk seen with Trump, who, despite a recent assassination attempt, has not seen a significant shift in his poll numbers.
Biden's deputy campaign manager, Quentin Fulks, emphasized the president's resolve in light of these challenges:
[Biden] is not wavering on anything. We're seeing a lot of speculation and concern, but that does not deter us. We are focused on the issues and committed to advancing the president's agenda for the American people.
Further complicating the Democratic narrative, the assassination attempt on Trump at a Pennsylvania rally last Saturday did little to dent his polling advantage. A survey conducted Monday revealed that Trump maintained a slight lead despite the violent incident.
The ongoing discourse within the Democratic Party signals a critical moment as the campaign prepares for an increasingly competitive race. Obama's reservations about Biden's ability to secure a victory are emblematic of broader party concerns, which could influence Democratic strategy in the upcoming months.
Obama's strategic concerns have been mirrored by various party insiders, all suggesting a reevaluation of the Democratic approach to the 2024 presidential election. This reflects growing anxiety within the party, suggesting potential shifts in their upcoming electoral tactics.
The Democratic leadership might have to make tough decisions about the direction of their campaign and the viability of their current candidate in the face of health issues, shaky debate performances, and dwindling support.