The Biden administration is navigating a complex political landscape, with growing concerns from Democratic donors and lawmakers about the president's viability and mental fitness. As the 2024 election cycle approaches, the party finds itself grappling with a potential leadership change, with some seeking to replace Biden with a newer, more viable candidate. This article delves into the behind-the-scenes dynamics and the implications for the Democratic party's future.
Navigating the Donor Revolt and Doubts About Biden's Viability
Donor Discontent and the Push for Change
Big-money Democratic donors have started to withhold cash from the Biden campaign, expressing their doubts about the president's viability. The slogan "No more dough until no more Joe" has gained traction, as funders look to replace Biden with a newer, potentially more viable model. These donors have even tried to fund new polling on alternative candidates, signaling their desire for a change in leadership.The donor revolt has been accompanied by growing concerns within the Democratic party about Biden's mental fitness. Lawmakers have reported witnessing a change in the president's demeanor, with one claiming that Biden was speaking so quietly during a recent meeting that he could barely be heard. Another lawmaker noted that the president has been frequently trailing off and referring to them by the wrong name in recent weeks.
The White House's Damage Control Efforts
Inside the White House, some advisers have been trying to do damage control by strategizing on how to lock in policy wins ahead of a potential second term for Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, rather than focusing on how to secure another four years for their boss. This shift in focus underscores the growing unease within the administration about Biden's political future.A campaign advisor has admitted that the polling is not favorable, and that "it feels like things are just getting worse every day." This sentiment is echoed by other party members, who are grappling with the implications of a potential Biden exit and the uncertainty that would follow.
The Family's Unwavering Support
Despite the reports of discontent, sources have insisted that the Biden family remains a united front behind the aging patriarch. Biden himself is said to be seething about the push for his ouster and has considered former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as the mastermind behind the effort.The president has remained defiant in the face of the growing revolt, with one lawmaker stating that "he believes he can still win." Biden's determination to stay in the race has been evident, as he insisted to the Reverend Al Sharpton shortly after the disastrous June 27 debate that "we've got to keep going."
The Potential Consequences of a Biden Departure
The debate over whether Biden should stay in the race has become an issue in itself, with some party members expressing concerns that it could "undercut potential enthusiasm" and "confuse people who want him to fight." The question of what would happen if Biden were to step down has also been raised, with one strategist proposing that it could lead to "a coronation of Kamala Harris" or a "truncated process" to select a new nominee.The uncertainty surrounding Biden's political future has also been exploited by Republican operatives, who are already working on ways to keep the president in the race, believing that a weaker candidate will mean victory for their party. As one Republican strategist in Georgia bluntly stated, "If Democrats want to win Georgia, they'd be better off with a potted plant at the top of their ticket."The Biden presidency is facing a critical juncture, with the party grappling with the implications of a potential leadership change and the impact it could have on their electoral prospects. As the 2024 election cycle approaches, the Democratic party must navigate these turbulent waters and determine the best path forward to secure their political future.
