Former President Barack Obama's allies, including David Axelrod, George Clooney, and Jon Favreau, have publicly called for President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race due to concerns about his age and mental acuity.
President Joe Biden has officially announced that he will not be seeking re-election in 2024, following weeks of mounting pressure from former President Barack Obama's allies and advisers.
Among the most vocal critics of Biden's candidacy have been former Obama adviser David Axelrod, actor George Clooney, and former director of speech writing for Obama, Jon Favreau. Axelrod, who served as Obama's chief campaign strategist, has stated that Biden is "not winning this race" and that his age is a significant concern.
Obama's Allies Pressure Biden to Drop Out of 2024 Race
Clooney, a close friend of Obama, wrote a bombshell op-ed in the New York Times calling for Biden to drop out, citing his declining mental acuity. Favreau, who co-founded the "Obama Bros" podcast with former Obama advisers Jon Lovett and Tommy Vietor, has also publicly expressed concerns about Biden's fitness for office.
Obama has remained relatively silent on the matter, coming to Biden's defense after his recent debate performance but not responding to media reports that he was working behind the scenes to promote Biden's exit. However, media reports have suggested that Obama, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi were encouraging Biden to drop out due to fears he could not defeat former President Donald Trump.
Obama's Allies Pressure Biden to Drop Out of 2024 Race
Pelosi had previously suggested that Biden's resolve to remain in the race was not final, saying, "We're all encouraging him to make that decision because time is running short."
Obama had reportedly cautioned Biden against seeking the White House in 2019, citing concerns that the campaign could "damage his legacy." Biden had a history of gaffes before becoming Obama's running mate in 2008.
Obama's Allies Pressure Biden to Drop Out of 2024 Race
As Democrats consider their options for the 2024 election, some in Biden's orbit have blamed his failed campaign on donors and elected officials. Former White House chief of staff Ron Klain urged Democrats to unite behind Vice President Kamala Harris, calling on them to end "political fantasy games."
Republicans, on the other hand, have demanded Biden's resignation, arguing that if he is unable to run for another term, he is also unable to fulfill his duties as president. House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Majority Whip Tom Emmer have both called for Biden to step down immediately.
Obama's Allies Pressure Biden to Drop Out of 2024 Race
Trump's running mate, Senator J.D. Vance, tweeted: "If Joe Biden ends his reelection campaign, how can he justify remaining President? Not running for reelection would be a clear admission that President Trump was right all along about Biden not being mentally fit enough to serve as Commander-in-Chief."
As Obama and Biden's relationship continues to be a subject of speculation, the 44th president has released a statement commending Biden's work in office but has not indicated who he believes should carry the mantle for the Democrats in 2024.
Obama's Allies Pressure Biden to Drop Out of 2024 Race
