Former United States (US) President Barack Obama has advised allies that Joe Biden should rethink his reelection campaign, according to a Washington Post report. Obama believes Biden’s chances of winning have lessened and that the 81-year-old should “seriously consider the viability of his candidacy,” the newspaper stated, citing sources familiar with Obama’s perspective.
The newspaper noted that there was no immediate response from Obama, who served as president while Biden was vice president from 2009-2017 and continues to wield significant influence within the Democratic Party.
If Obama voices this opinion publicly, he would be the most prominent Democrat to join the increasing number of party members urging Biden to withdraw, particularly after a poor debate performance against Donald Trump.
Despite these concerns, Biden, currently isolating due to Covid at his beach house, has dismissed worries about his age and health, affirming his intention to remain in the presidential race.
However, pressure is building, with Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries reportedly having recent discussions with Biden to express their concerns that his candidacy could jeopardise the party’s chances in the upcoming November election.
Additionally, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi privately cautioned President Biden that Democrats might lose the chance to regain control of the House if he didn’t withdraw from the race, according to an Associated Press report. Pelosi reportedly presented Biden with polling data indicating that he likely can’t defeat Republican Donald Trump, AP cited sources familiar with the situation who requested anonymity to discuss it.
