The New York Times reported that Biden, at 81 years old, has acknowledged the pivotal nature of three upcoming appearances that could determine his re-election bid against Donald Trump.
These include an ABC interview on Friday night, along with campaign stops in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Following a widely criticized debate performance against Trump last Thursday, there have been calls from within the Democratic Party for Biden to consider withdrawing from the race.
One Biden ally cited by the New York Times stated, “He knows if he has two more events like that [the debate], we’re in a different place.”
Despite these reports, White House aides have denied any plans of Biden stepping down. Biden’s family, including his wife Jill and son Hunter, are reportedly among those urging him to stay in the White House.
However, according to the New York Times, Biden has privately admitted the possibility of bowing out in favor of a younger Democratic candidate to challenge the rising popularity of Trump.
On Wednesday, during a call with campaign staff, Biden reaffirmed his commitment to staying in the 2024 race, stating unequivocally, “Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can: I am running – no one’s pushing me out. I’m not leaving. I’m in this race to the end and we’re going to win.”
Later that evening, Biden met with 20 Democratic governors at the White House to assure them of his readiness to continue in the race. He also candidly acknowledged nearly dozing off during a fundraiser in McLean, Virginia, attributing it to extensive travel before his televised debate with former President Donald Trump.
Recent polling shows Donald Trump with a three-point lead on average across all seven swing states following the debate with Joe Biden last week.
