Amidst mounting concerns over President Biden's mental acuity and age, more than a dozen House Democrats facing tough re-election battles have made frequent trips to the White House in an attempt to distance themselves from the Biden administration's agenda. However, some members of their party are calling for bolder action, including demands for Biden to step aside in the 2024 presidential race.
More than a dozen House Democrats locked in highly contested re-election battles have traveled to the White House a combined 133 times over the past three and a half years. These visits come amid growing concerns within the party about President Biden's mental fitness and age, particularly ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
The 16 Democratic lawmakers met with Biden on various occasions, with Biden present for roughly 75% of the gatherings. The lawmakers, representing districts classified as "Democrat Toss Up" or "Lean Democrat," have sought to put distance between themselves and the Biden administration's policies while still maintaining contact with the White House.
Biden's Presidency in Crisis: Dems Seek Distance, Raise Concerns
One of the most vocal critics of Biden's electability is Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesota. Craig has attended several events at the White House but recently called for Biden to "step aside for the next generation of leadership" in the 2024 race. She has cited concerns about Biden's performance in the debate.
Similarly, Rep. Jared Golden of Maine, who also attended a White House event with Biden, has expressed doubts about the president's electability. He believes Trump will win the 2024 election and has stated that he will not vote for Biden.
Biden's Presidency in Crisis: Dems Seek Distance, Raise Concerns
Rep. Susan Wild of Pennsylvania has also distanced herself from Biden, acknowledging concerns about his electability. She attended a 12-person meeting with Biden in March at the White House.
In contrast to those expressing concerns, many other Democrats who have traveled to the White House have remained silent on the matter. Rep. Jahana Hayes of Connecticut, who has met with Biden multiple times, has not addressed concerns about his fitness for office. The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has criticized Hayes for her silence.
Biden's Presidency in Crisis: Dems Seek Distance, Raise Concerns
Biden's poor debate performance against Trump has intensified the crisis within the Democratic Party. The president and his campaign aides have faced demands from party members and media outlets to withdraw from the 2024 race.
Despite the turmoil, Biden and his aides remain adamant that he is the right candidate to lead the party against Trump. They have attempted to reassure donors, while the White House continues to emphasize Biden's fitness for office.
Biden's Presidency in Crisis: Dems Seek Distance, Raise Concerns
The crisis surrounding Biden's presidency continues to divide the Democratic Party, with some seeking to distance themselves from the administration while others remain loyal to the president. The situation is likely to remain a major issue leading up to next month's Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
