Covid Positive Joe Biden Faces Mounting Pressure From Campaign Setbacks And Declining Support

President Joe Biden recently addressed concerns about his ability to complete a potential second term. He emphasized that if the doctors recommend, he would step down and hand over power to Vice President Kamala Harris. Unfortunately, the US president has tested COVID positive and his campaign does not look good with several big shots asking for his withdrawal.

Democratic divisions and celebrity influence

Biden's performance during a debate on June 27 with former President Donald Trump has amplified concerns about his age and cognitive abilities. Democratic Party concerns were sparked by the president's conspicuous tardiness and moments of bewilderment. A noticeable rift has emerged within the party as a result of the debate: over 80 Democratic lawmakers have remained in support of Biden, while 21 have openly called for him to drop out of the contest. 

Public support for Biden has also waned outside of political circles. Actor George Clooney, in a widely read op-ed, urged Biden to step down, a sentiment allegedly known but not countered by former President Barack Obama. This shift in celebrity endorsements reflects a broader trend of diminishing public confidence in Biden's candidacy.

Democratic National Convention preparations

The Democratic National Committee (DNC), despite mounting opposition, is essentially proceeding with its intention to nominate Biden prior to the Democratic convention in Chicago. This decision, intended to ensure ballot access in crucial states, has faced backlash from several party members who argue that it undermines the democratic process. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have both expressed concerns about the DNC's plans, advocating for a delay in the virtual roll call vote. 

Internal party conflict and calls for Biden to withdraw

The Democratic Party is experiencing a crisis of confidence as a result of the debate performance, with some politicians openly and privately doubting Biden's suitability as a contender. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have expressed their concerns directly to Biden, urging a delay in the virtual nomination vote. 

These high-level discussions highlight the party's concern over Biden's chances of winning in November. Biden maintains his status as the front-runner and declares his intention to seek reelection in the face of internal resistance. 

Health setbacks and campaign disruptions

Adding to the campaign turmoil, Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling through Las Vegas for his campaign. He has started taking the antiviral medication Paxlovid and is solitary at his Delaware home after exhibiting minimal symptoms. A scheduled campaign event intended to mobilize Hispanic voters was derailed by this diagnosis, underscoring the continued difficulties Biden has in staying visible and engaging with important voting segments. 

Virtual nomination plan

Critics still point to the DNC's pledge to do a virtual roll call before the convention. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a Democrat, has reaffirmed his demand that Biden resign and emphasized the need to field a formidable opponent to Trump. Representative Jared Huffman has expressed apprehensions regarding the virtual vote, characterizing it as an imprudent tactic. 

As the Democratic National Convention approaches, the party remains divided over Biden's candidacy. Despite the internal turmoil, Biden's campaign is adapting as it moves through these obstacles to keep up the momentum. 

Vice President Kamala Harris is still actively campaigning, and Biden's team intends to use digital media to keep up the fight while he's in isolation. The Democratic Party is at a crossroads where it must strike a balance between maintaining its unity and fielding a strong candidate who can beat Trump in the upcoming election. 

To sum up, the upcoming weeks will be pivotal in determining the Democratic strategy and whether Biden can regain the full support of his party and secure his nomination.