Will he recover after this blunder?
President Joe Biden is set to convene with his family at Camp David, Maryland, this Sunday to discuss the future of his re-election campaign, following concerns raised by a nationally televised debate on Thursday. The debate left many Democrats worried about Biden’s ability to defeat former President Donald Trump in November, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Biden had planned the Camp David trip before the debate, scheduled to join First Lady Jill Biden, their children, and grandchildren there late Saturday. Despite public support from top party leaders like former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, as well as prominent congressional Democrats including Reps. Hakeem Jeffries, Jim Clyburn, and Nancy Pelosi, there are private expressions of concern about Biden’s campaign viability.
Sources indicate that some Democratic leaders, while publicly endorsing Biden, have privately discussed apprehensions about his candidacy, particularly after the debate performance. A Democratic House member, who remains anonymous, reported that several colleagues have also voiced doubts privately, although no public calls for Biden to step aside have been made.
The discussions reflect a delicate balance within the party, with some urging patience to see how Biden’s campaign responds in the coming weeks based on polling and public perception. Biden himself has indicated determination to continue, acknowledging the concerns raised about his debate performance but reaffirming his commitment to the presidential race.
While Biden’s aides and advisers have encouraged staying the course, emphasizing resilience amidst challenges, there is recognition among Democrats that Biden’s decision, influenced significantly by his family and close advisers, will be deeply personal and pivotal for the party’s electoral strategy moving forward.
