Hollywood actor George Clooney has urged US President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, citing concerns about Biden’s age and effectiveness. This comes after senior Democrat Nancy Pelosi also hinted that Biden should reconsider his candidacy following a weak debate performance against Donald Trump.
Clooney, a major Democratic fundraiser, wrote in the New York Times that Biden’s age is a significant issue. He expressed disappointment, noting that the Biden he recently met seemed less capable than in the past. Clooney emphasized that age is the primary concern and doubted Biden’s ability to win in US Presidential elections to be held on 5 November.
Michael Douglas, another Hollywood star and Biden supporter, echoed these concerns. He praised Biden’s past performance but stressed the need for a strong, articulate candidate, especially after Biden’s debate with Trump.
Despite these concerns, Biden is determined to run and defeat Trump. However, public dissent within the Democratic Party is growing. Pelosi, during an MSNBC interview, suggested that Biden needs to make a decision soon.
Biden’s campaign defended the president, highlighting his busy schedule and recent international engagements, such as the G7 summit in Italy before a fundraiser in Los Angeles. An unnamed source criticized Clooney for leaving the fundraiser early, while Biden stayed for over three hours
Clooney’s comments reflect a broader unease within the party. Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado predicted a potential landslide victory for Trump, and Peter Welch of Vermont explicitly called for Biden to withdraw for the country’s good. Other Democrats, including Pat Ryan from New York and Earl Blumenauer from Oregon, have also suggested that Biden step aside.
Despite these calls, many elected Democrats still support Biden, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and members of the Congressional Black Caucus. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has expressed support but is reportedly open to other options. Senior Democrats note a growing consensus among party members, donors, and supporters about Biden’s candidacy.
At the NATO summit in Washington, questions about Biden’s campaign were prevalent. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed confidence in continued US commitment to the alliance, regardless of the next president.
As Biden prepares for a rare solo news conference and an interview with NBC News, Democratic voters in swing states like Pennsylvania show mixed feelings. Some, like Karren Gillchrist in Harrisburg, remain firmly supportive of Biden, while others, like Melissa Nash in Elizabethtown, express uncertainty about his ability to lead effectively against Trump.
The debate within the Democratic Party highlights the challenges Biden faces as he seeks to secure his party’s nomination and run a successful campaign in the 2024 presidential election.