Sen. Chuck Schumer is facing scrutiny after reportedly telling President Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race during a private meeting in July. Schumer, the Senate Democratic leader, has declined to confirm or deny the allegations.
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has declined to confirm or deny reports that he advised President Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race during a private meeting in July. The allegations have cast a shadow over the long-standing relationship between Schumer and Biden, who have worked closely together on a range of legislative initiatives.
During an interview on CBS' "Face the Nation," Schumer faced repeated questions about whether he had urged Biden to exit the race, but he dodged each inquiry. When asked directly if he had suggested to Biden that he should leave the presidential race, Schumer responded by highlighting Biden's accomplishments as president and expressing his respect for the president's patriotism.
Schumer Dodges Questions on Alleged Advice to Biden to Drop Out
The allegations against Schumer stem from an ABC News report that claimed several Democrats, including Schumer and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, had "forcefully" told Biden that he needed to bow out of the race. The report cited anonymous sources who said that Schumer had privately expressed concerns about Biden's age and declining poll numbers.
The allegations have sparked speculation about potential fissures within the Democratic party, with some suggesting that Schumer and other party leaders may be losing confidence in Biden's ability to win reelection. However, Schumer has emphasized his support for Biden and has expressed hope that the president will reconsider his decision to not seek a second term.
Schumer Dodges Questions on Alleged Advice to Biden to Drop Out
"I'm not going to get into the specifics, but he can – President Biden will walk away from the presidency with his head held high because of all the great things he's done, and because he put America first," Schumer said in response to questions about the July 13 meeting.
Biden announced via a letter posted to social media that he would be bowing out of the race. In the letter, Biden said it was in the best interests of the party and the country for him to step aside and focus on fulfilling his duties as president for the remainder of his term.
Schumer Dodges Questions on Alleged Advice to Biden to Drop Out
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from Democrats. Some have praised Biden for putting the party's interests ahead of his own, while others have expressed disappointment and concern about the party's chances of holding onto the White House in 2024.
Despite the allegations and speculation, Schumer has remained a steadfast supporter of Biden. He has praised Biden's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and his efforts to address climate change, gun violence, and other pressing issues.
The allegations have placed Schumer in a difficult position, as he balances his loyalty to Biden with the need to ensure the Democratic party's electoral success. The upcoming midterm elections will provide an early indication of the party's chances in 2024 and could influence Schumer's future calculus.
