Democrats urging Biden to rethink running ahead of party convention

Democrats are expressing concerns about President Joe Biden’s chances of winning in November and are urging him to reconsider his reelection bid. Despite Biden’s insistence on staying in the race, key Democrats such as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries have held private conversations with him, outlining the worries within the party. Representative Suzan DelBene of Washington also shared fresh data with Biden regarding concerns from House Democrats seeking reelection.

California Representative Adam Schiff, a close ally of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, has become the most prominent House Democrat to suggest that Biden should step down from his reelection bid, stating that it might be time for him to “pass the torch.” This comes amid growing concerns following Biden’s lackluster debate performance last month.

Although the Democratic National Committee is moving forward with plans to officially nominate Biden as its candidate in August, a new poll by AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that nearly two-thirds of Democrats nationwide believe Biden should step aside for another candidate.

Biden recently tested positive for COVID-19 while in Las Vegas, experiencing mild symptoms and has taken time off the campaign trail. Despite calls from some Democrats for him to withdraw, Biden remains determined to run for reelection, citing support from members of Congress in swing states and caucuses.

With nearly 20 Democratic members of Congress calling for Biden to step down after his debate performance, the party is contemplating delaying the virtual vote to renominate Biden. The Democratic National Committee is set to discuss the virtual voting process in the coming days, underlining the growing internal turmoil within the party over Biden’s candidacy.