Former President Barack Obama has found himself at the centre of intense speculation following reports that he is quietly working behind the scenes to influence President Joe Biden to step aside from the 2024 presidential race.
Multiple media outlets, including Politico and MSNBC, have cited sources suggesting Obama’s involvement in efforts to prompt Biden’s exit, with varying degrees of directness.
The controversy erupted after actor George Clooney’s New York Times guest essay, in which he asserted that Democratic leaders should acknowledge concerns about Biden’s performance and consider alternatives. Clooney indicated he had informed Obama about his intentions before publishing, revealing that he did not endorse the suggestion outright while Obama didn’t dissuade him.
On MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” a program noted for its connection to Biden, host Joe Scarborough further fueled the speculation, stating that many within the Biden campaign and among Democratic officials believe Obama is actively orchestrating a shift away from Biden’s candidacy.
While a source close to Obama declined to comment directly on the reports, they pointed to Obama’s public statements supporting Biden, particularly at a recent Los Angeles fundraiser that sparked Clooney’s critique.
Obama’s former advisers and allies, including David Axelrod and the so-called “Obama bros,” have also subtly intensified their calls for Biden to reconsider his candidacy.
Clooney’s op-ed highlighted a June fundraiser where attendees noted Biden’s subdued and lacklustre performance, contrasting sharply with his past vigour. Jon Favreau, a member of the “Obama bros,” echoed Clooney’s observations on CNN, recounting widespread concern among attendees about Biden’s demeanour and readiness.
In response to mounting speculation, sources within Biden’s campaign have reaffirmed the president’s commitment to staying in the race, describing campaign efforts as moving “full steam ahead.”
The unfolding situation underscores growing internal tensions within the Democratic Party as it navigates the road to the 2024 election. With Obama’s alleged behind-the-scenes influence now under scrutiny, all eyes remain on how this narrative will develop in the coming days.
