He’s going to have to try harder.
President Biden engaged in a virtual meeting with members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) on Monday night to bolster his support base amid growing internal and external challenges. During the call, Biden expressed gratitude to CBC members for their unwavering support throughout his tenure and assured them of his continued loyalty.
Sources familiar with the meeting conveyed Biden’s acknowledgment of the CBC’s backing, emphasizing a reciprocal commitment: “You’ve had my back, and I’ll continue to have yours.” This sentiment was reported by the Washington Post, which also noted expectations of a forthcoming formal endorsement from the CBC. Such an endorsement holds significant weight as Biden faces opposition within his party, including calls from some Democrats for him to step aside following concerns over his recent debate performance and electability against former President Trump.
The meeting was seen as a crucial moment for Biden to shore up support among key constituencies, particularly given the challenges posed by dissenting voices within the Democratic ranks. Representatives such as Mike Quigley, Seth Moulton, Lloyd Doggett, Angie Craig, and Raul Grijalva have publicly voiced reservations about Biden’s candidacy, citing doubts about his ability to effectively challenge Trump in the upcoming election.
In response to the meeting, Rep. Frederica Wilson of Florida voiced strong support for Biden, highlighting his dedication to national progress and economic equity, especially within Black communities. Wilson affirmed Biden’s commitment to “fighting for the soul of our nation” and emphasized his consistent advocacy for issues important to her constituents.
Looking forward, the anticipated endorsement from the CBC could provide Biden with a crucial boost in his reelection campaign, signaling unified support from a significant caucus within Congress. This endorsement would not only reaffirm Biden’s standing among key Democratic allies but also underscore his efforts to maintain a coalition capable of navigating internal party divisions and external electoral challenges.