Biden vows to continue his 2024 presidential bid despite debate setback

WASHINGTON, USA: US President Joe Biden has pledged to remain in the 2024 presidential race despite a rocky debate against Donald Trump last week. Speaking to campaign staff on Wednesday, Biden assured them of his intention to run, stressing that he remains the leader of the Democratic Party and will not be ousted.

“I’m in,” Biden claimed, according to sources familiar with the conversation. The reassurance was meant to assuage growing concerns among top Democrats on Capitol Hill about his re-election eligibility. To further cement his position, he is scheduled to meet with Democratic governors on Wednesday night, some of whom will attend virtually.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was blunt when asked if Biden was considering resigning: “Absolutely not.”

Biden has also been in talks with key Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democrat Jim Clyburn. Clyburn, a key figure in Biden’s 2020 victory, suggested that if Biden steps aside, the party should hold a “mini-primary” to select a new candidate. He also voiced his support for Vice President Kamala Harris as a potential nominee, stressing the importance of selecting a strong running mate.

Biden’s debate performance in Atlanta last week prompted calls from some Democrats to oust him. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi commented on the need to assess whether Biden’s performance was an isolated incident or indicative of a larger problem. Biden attributed his debate struggles to fatigue from recent travel abroad and a cold.

Despite the criticism, Biden’s campaign is continuing its damage control efforts, with appeals to donors and reassurances to staff. White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients acknowledged the challenging few days but emphasized the administration’s accomplishments and continued work.

Potential rivals to Biden, should he decide to step aside, include Vice President Kamala Harris and several governors: Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Gavin Newsom of California, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania and Andy Beshear of Kentucky. While Harris is the most likely successor, these governors have been mentioned as possible candidates.

As pressure mounts, Biden remains resolute in his reelection fight, focusing on his administration’s accomplishments and addressing his party’s concerns.