Democratic Lawmakers in Congress Debate Biden’s Electability as He Vows to Fight on

Democratic U.S. lawmakers convened for nearly two hours on Tuesday but failed to reach a consensus on whether to support President Joe Biden’s determination to continue his reelection campaign.

Democrats in the House of Representatives held a closed-door meeting at party headquarters following Biden’s firm rejection of calls from several members to withdraw from the November 5 election race, prompted by a contentious debate with rival Donald Trump last month.

Upon exiting the meeting, U.S. Representative Steve Cohen remarked, “We’re not even in the same book,” highlighting the lack of unity among Democrats.

Despite no new public defections, earlier calls from six House members urging the 81-year-old Biden to step aside underscored internal divisions. Representative Mike Quigley, one of those urging Biden’s exit, emphasized, “He just has to step down. He can’t win.”

Joe Biden’s Age Isn’t the Problem | M10news

While the meeting did not mend the party’s internal rift, many lawmakers expressed current support for Biden or potential backing if he secured a formal nomination at the August party convention.

Democratic concerns primarily revolve around Biden’s recent struggles, potentially harming efforts to secure a majority in the House, which is crucial as a counterbalance to Trump should he win. Republicans currently hold a slim 220-213 majority in the House, while Democrats face challenges defending their 51-49 Senate majority.

Even Biden’s supporters have voiced apprehensions since his lacklustre June debate performance, questioning his campaign viability and stamina for another term.

To reassure nervous Democrats, Biden reiterated his commitment in a Monday call with MSNBC and donors, with additional outreach to the Congressional Black Caucus, whose support remains pivotal.

Representative Lou Correa likened Tuesday’s deliberations to a family dispute, urging colleagues to continue voicing opinions as part of democracy. Conversely, Representative Juan Vargas expressed frustration, labelling the focus on Biden’s flaws as counterproductive amid efforts to unite against Trump.

Senate Democrats were expected to discuss Biden during their weekly policy lunch, while Biden himself hosted NATO leaders in Washington to underscore his global leadership credentials.

Vice President Kamala Harris, seen as a potential successor if Biden steps down, is headed to Nevada, a battleground state critical to the election.

Democrats in turmoil over Biden’s debate performance: M10news

Meanwhile, Trump, who anticipates Biden staying in the race, planned a rally in Florida ahead of the Republican National Convention next week.

Biden has vowed to persevere, arguing Trump poses a unique threat to democracy, while Trump continues to challenge election integrity, making baseless claims about fraud.

Democratic Senator Michael Bennet urged party unity on a campaign strategy by week’s end, regardless of Biden’s candidacy.

A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll highlighted divisions among Democratic voters, with a third believing Biden should exit the race due to age concerns. However, no alternative candidates polled better against Trump.

Reporting by Richard Cowan, Moira Warburton, and David Morgan; additional reporting by Allende Miglietta, Katharine Jackson, and Doina Chiacu; Writing by Joseph Ax; Editing by Scott Malone and Howard Goller