According to a report by the New York Times, Joe Biden is reportedly worried about his poor performance in last Thursday’s debate with Donald Trump. The US President has even considered the possibility of retiring from the presidential race.
The report states that Biden told a key ally he recognizes that if he fails to convince the public in the coming days, he may not be able to secure his nomination. Despite this, Biden remains committed to his re-election campaign. He understands that his upcoming appearances before the bank holiday weekend are crucial. His schedule includes an interview with ABC News’s George Stephanopoulos on Friday and campaign stops in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
“If he has two more appearances like the debate, we will be in a different place by the end of the weekend,” his ally, who requested anonymity, told the New York Times
Evaluating His Chances of Recovery
This statement is the first indication that Biden is seriously considering whether he can recover from his debate performance. There are growing concerns among the American public about his viability as a candidate and his ability to handle the responsibilities of the presidency for another four years.
A top adviser to Biden, who also spoke anonymously, mentioned that the president is “well aware of the political challenge he faces.” White House officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Campaign officials are nervously monitoring the polls, acknowledging that poor numbers could exacerbate the crisis. A CBS News poll on Wednesday showed former President Donald Trump leading Biden 50 percent to 48 percent nationally.
Fighting for Political Survival
Biden is gradually reaching out to Democratic elected officials and has scheduled a meeting with Democratic governors for Wednesday night. He continues to consult with longtime confidants and has admitted to at least one person that his plan to shift the focus to Donald Trump and move past his debate performance might not succeed.
Several of Biden’s allies, who are in discussion with his family and advisers after Thursday’s debate, emphasized that the president is still fighting the political battle of his life. He sees this as an opportunity for a comeback, a feat he has accomplished many times during his extensive political career.
Meanwhile, he continues to strive to convince voters, funders, and politicians that his debate performance was an isolated incident.