Washington, July 19: Former President Barack Obama has privately expressed serious concerns about President Joe Biden’s re-election prospects, advising Democrats that Biden’s chances of winning the November 5 election have “greatly diminished,” according to The Washington Post. Obama, who served as Biden’s vice president from 2009 to 2017, reportedly believes the 81-year-old leader should reconsider his candidacy.
The concerns come in the wake of Biden’s underwhelming performance in a recent presidential debate against former President Donald Trump. The debate was marred by frequent gaffes and a loss of coherence, raising questions among Democrats about Biden’s age and mental acuity. Despite the mounting pressure and public calls from some Democrats, including Representative Adam Schiff, for Biden to withdraw from the race, Biden has firmly maintained that he is fit to continue and capable of defeating Trump.
Obama, while expressing his reservations, has made it clear that the decision to withdraw or continue is ultimately up to Biden. He emphasized that his concern was for Biden’s well-being and legacy rather than exerting direct influence over the President’s decision.
In a recent development, Biden tested positive for Covid-19 while campaigning in Las Vegas. The White House reported that he is currently self-isolating at his beach house in Delaware and is experiencing mild symptoms. It remains uncertain how long this illness will affect his campaign schedule.
Despite these challenges, Biden has remained resolute. He has indicated that he would only consider ending his campaign if advised by doctors about a severe medical condition. Biden has stated that only a higher power could persuade him to step down.
A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll highlights the growing discontent among voters. About 40 percent of Democratic-registered voters and 65 percent of independent voters believe Biden should withdraw from the race. Additionally, 58 percent of Democratic voters and 70 percent of independents feel that Biden is too old to continue in government.