As President Biden navigates a crisis of confidence in his re-election campaign, he will host an Independence Day barbecue at the White House on Thursday. This will be followed by remarks during a celebration with military and veteran families, culminating in his attendance at the fireworks display on the National Mall.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, a strong supporter of President Biden and an active surrogate for his re-election efforts, will campaign on his behalf in Michigan.
President Biden has conveyed to key allies that his future as a viable candidate hinges on persuading voters of his capability to lead, particularly after his poor performance in a debate against former President Donald Trump last week. As concerns about his candidacy grow, Democratic lawmakers are increasingly vocal. Representative Raúl M. Grijalva of Arizona joined Representative Lloyd Doggett of Texas in calling for Biden to withdraw from the race on Wednesday.
Amid doubts about Biden’s candidacy, some Democrats are contemplating potential replacements. Vice President Kamala Harris is emerging as a prominent contender, bolstered by support from key Democrats and a strong following among her social media supporters, the “KHive.”
Governor Newsom is another possible candidate, though he dispelled such speculation after meeting with a group of Democratic governors on Wednesday. He reaffirmed his support for Biden, stating, “I heard three words from the president — he’s all in. And so am I.”
Democratic donors, anxious about the president’s prospects, have been cautious about openly suggesting he step down. They fear that such calls could exacerbate internal party divisions, alienate important constituencies, damage personal relationships, and benefit Trump. However, Reed Hastings, the co-founder of Netflix and a significant Democratic donor, expressed a sentiment shared privately by many megadonors in an email to The New York Times on Wednesday: “Biden needs to step aside to allow a vigorous Democratic leader to beat Trump and keep us safe and prosperous.”
First Lady Jill Biden visited Michigan on Wednesday to open a campaign office near Traverse City, emphasizing her husband’s commitment to securing a second term. Addressing local Democrats, she sought to assuage concerns about Biden’s ability to win despite his recent debate struggles. “Because there’s a lot of talk out there,” Dr. Biden told supporters, “let me repeat what my husband has said plainly and clearly: Joe is the Democratic nominee, and he is going to beat Donald Trump just like he did in 2020.”
As President Biden prepares to host the Independence Day festivities, his campaign faces increasing scrutiny from within his own party. The coming weeks will be crucial for Biden as he works to strengthen his position and reassure both supporters and donors of his candidacy’s viability.
