Jan Appling Secretary | DeKalb County Republican Party
Jan Appling Secretary | DeKalb County Republican Party
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is reportedly set to meet with other leading Democrats on Sunday to discuss the future of President Joe Biden's campaign. This follows concerns about Biden's recent interview on ABC News, which has sparked worries among Democrats regarding their prospects in the upcoming November elections.
The meeting, according to Fox News, involves top Democratic congressional leaders and aims to address the direction of Biden’s re-election efforts. Despite calls for him to reconsider his candidacy, Biden remains committed to staying in the race.
"Top Democratic congressional leaders are planning to hold a meeting to discuss President Biden’s fledgling re-election campaign, even as Biden himself has struck a defiant tone amid calls to drop out of the race," reported Fox News. Jeffries will lead this virtual meeting with senior Democrats, though it will not include the full Democratic caucus.
The gathering comes after a 22-minute interview with ABC News intended by Biden's campaign to alleviate concerns about his capability. However, it instead heightened fears following an earlier debate performance that was poorly received by some within his party.
Axios also reports that Jeffries plans to connect with House committee leaders before Congress reconvenes. "Why it matters: Next week could be a watershed moment for House Democrats, many of whom remain shaken by the president’s poor debate performance and convinced he cannot beat former President Trump," noted Axios.
Lawmakers have expressed apprehension from donors and constituents about Biden's electoral strength. Those in swing districts are particularly worried about potential negative impacts on their own races if Biden continues as the nominee.
By early next week, it should become clearer whether these discussions will result in calls for Biden to withdraw or support for his continued candidacy.