A growing number of Democratic members of Congress have publicly called for President Biden to withdraw from the presidential race. Most of these members are white, and many belong to the moderate New Democrat Coalition. However, Biden still has strong support from the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
Many Democrats fear that if Biden remains in the race, not only will he lose the White House, but he will also harm their chances of winning the Senate or the House of Representatives. Congressional leaders have expressed their concerns to Biden, but they have no authority to force him out, and they worry that a public conflict could be detrimental to the party.
Despite calls for him to step aside following a disastrous debate with former President Trump, Biden remains determined to run. He has stated that he will only reconsider if his aides tell him that he cannot win.
The decisions of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Rep. James E. Clyburn may be crucial to Biden’s fate. Pelosi, a respected political tactician, has urged Biden to make a thoughtful decision about his candidacy. Clyburn has expressed his support for Biden but has also noted that the president still has time to change his mind.
There is speculation that if Biden withdraws, Vice President Kamala Harris could be a potential candidate. Clyburn and other members of the Black Caucus are reportedly working to ensure that Harris is the only alternative if Biden steps down.
Biden has a history of support from Black Democrats, who have been a key part of his coalition. He has made efforts to address their concerns, including appointing the Supreme Court’s first Black woman and increasing federal aid to historically Black colleges and universities.
While most members of the Congressional Black Caucus have endorsed Biden, a few have expressed concerns about the party’s prospects if he falters. Similarly, some members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus have called on Biden to step down, while others have expressed their support for him.
The question now is whether the calls for Biden to withdraw will increase and put more pressure on Pelosi, Clyburn, and other leaders to take action. The deadline for a decision is the Democratic National Convention in August, where delegates will formally choose the party’s nominee.
It remains to be seen how this internal party conflict will unfold in the coming weeks as new poll numbers emerge, constituents weigh in, and more members make their decisions. Despite the uncertainty, Biden remains confident in his chances and is prepared to face any challenges that may arise.