As Biden campaigns in Pennsylvania, some House Democratic leaders suggest he should step down.
President Joe Biden emphasized unity among his supporters during multiple stops in Pennsylvania on Sunday. This comes amid some congressional Democrats privately suggesting he should consider not running for reelection due to concerns about his fitness for another term.
Speaking at Philadelphia’s Mount Airy Church of God in Christ, the 81-year-old Biden joked about his age but expressed optimism about America’s future. At a rally with union members in Harrisburg, he reiterated familiar themes and allowed key supporters to voice their backing, showcasing political support rather than proving his stamina for another term.
As Congress prepares to reconvene, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries gathered top committee members to discuss Biden’s future. Some, including Representatives Jerry Nadler, Jim Himes, and Mark Takano, privately suggested Biden step aside. However, influential members of the Congressional Black Caucus and other top Democrats argued for Biden to stay in the race. The discussions were varied, with no consensus reached.
Biden personally called lawmakers over the weekend, reiterating his commitment to the race and promising to intensify his campaign efforts. Senator Alex Padilla of California expressed confidence in turning the situation around by getting Biden out in public more often.
A private meeting to discuss Biden’s future, initially planned by Senator Mark Warner, was canceled after being made public. Instead, the discussions will occur during a regular caucus luncheon with all Democratic senators. Some Democratic lawmakers have already publicly called for Biden to step down before the November election.
The Biden campaign is actively contacting lawmakers to prevent further defections and enlisting high-profile supporters to defend him. Despite calls for him to step aside, including from Tampa city councilman Alan Clendenin and Hollywood director Rob Reiner, others continue to support Biden.
Pastor Louis Felton of Mount Airy likened Biden to the biblical Joseph, urging people not to count him out despite opposition. Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania also voiced strong support, emphasizing Biden’s ability to defeat Trump again.
While some, like Isabel Afonso, acknowledge concerns about Biden’s age but believe he can still win, others like James Johnson worry that replacing Biden would cause confusion among lifelong Democrats. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut suggested Biden needs to address voter concerns but believes he will be in a good position if he does so.
Biden has rejected independent cognitive testing, asserting that the presidency’s daily demands prove his mental acuity. Representative Adam Schiff expressed openness to cognitive tests for both Biden and Trump, emphasizing the importance of making the right decision to run or pass the torch.
The report was compiled by AP writers from multiple locations, including Washington, New York, South Carolina, and New Orleans.