President Joe Biden faced a growing crisis of confidence among his allies, donors and party members, after a debate performance that raised questions about his fitness for office and ability to lead.
The president’s admission of deteriorating physical and rhetorical condition was not enough to allay concerns, as strategic missteps and a retreat from public appearances exacerbated the situation.
Recent events have left his candidacy on shaky ground, with some Democratic strategists considering backing Vice President Harris and calls growing for Biden to step down.
The escalating crisis has overshadowed Biden’s efforts to project resilience and vitality at a rally in North Carolina. Despite the narrative of his planned comeback, private doubts among his inner circle and public opinion polls have suggested a loss of confidence in his presidential abilities.
The president’s subsequent low-key approach, including teleprompter-based appearances and limited public comment, failed to directly address concerns.
The internal turmoil within the Democratic Party has become more apparent as independent strategists begin to make plans to support Vice President Harris. Annoyed advisers and staffers have expressed concerns about the president’s “deafening silence,” while elected and former leaders have publicly questioned his ability to continue in the race.
Biden’s belated response to the evolving situation, including an expression of confidence and a rejection of the polls, was not enough to stem the tide of skepticism.
The debate incidents and subsequent fallout have put a spotlight on Biden’s campaign strategy and his physical ability to withstand the rigors of a presidential race.
The president’s late arrival to the CNN studio, his unpreparedness for key camera angles, and his stumbling responses during the debate only intensified the scrutiny.
Allies and donors have expressed disappointment with his short, quiet appearances at fundraising events, raising doubts about his stamina and communication skills.
As the House returns to session on Monday, Sen. Mark R. Warner and other senators are preparing to rally for change, marking a critical juncture for Biden’s presidency and the future of the Democratic Party.
So far, five House Democrats have called on President Biden to drop out of the race, and that number could grow significantly in the coming days and weeks.