Democrats running in pivotal 2024 races are beginning to separate themselves from President Joe Biden after his recent debate with former President Donald Trump. Concerns about Biden’s mental sharpness have intensified this movement.
Reports indicate that Democrats in competitive districts are reconsidering having the president campaign with them. One House Democrat, who requested anonymity, shared with Axios that “frantic efforts” will be made to avoid Biden during campaign season. “I don’t ever want to see him here,” the lawmaker said. “Every major donor I’ve spoken to is furious and wants him to step aside.”
Another House Democrat expressed similar sentiments, stating that members in swing districts are “freaking out” about the potential impact of Biden on their races. One legislator said, “Trump could expand the map to where I’m in a tight race.”
This strategy of distancing from an unpopular president isn’t new in congressional races, but Biden’s unique challenges as the oldest president add a new layer to the tactic. While congressional Democrats have generally polled better than Biden this cycle, there is growing concern that his unpopularity could negatively affect their campaigns.
Many swing district House Democrats avoided discussing Biden’s debate performance at the Capitol, with one even pretending to take a phone call to dodge questions. The Biden campaign, meanwhile, has been working to maintain confidence, insisting that the president’s standing in battleground states and his fundraising efforts remain solid.
As reported by Breitbart News, despite calls from some donors and Democrat officials for Biden to step aside, the Biden family is urging him to stay in the race. Hunter Biden is notably one of the strongest advocates for his father to continue his campaign. Several anonymous sources have confirmed this stance, highlighting the family’s commitment to Biden’s candidacy despite rising concerns within the party.
