California Governor Gavin Newsom, a top surrogate for President Biden’s re-election campaign, is pushing back against a growing number of Democrats who are urging the president to step aside. Newsom, speaking to reporters during a campaign stop in New Hampshire, dismissed the calls for Biden to end his re-election bid, calling them “not helpful” and a “handful of people.” He emphasized that the “overwhelming majority of the caucus” remains supportive of Biden.
Newsom’s comments come in the wake of a turbulent week for the Biden campaign. Following a rough debate performance against former President Trump, Biden has faced mounting pressure from within his own party to step aside. Six House Democrats have publicly called for Biden to end his bid, and four more top committee members reportedly voiced similar concerns on a private call.
In response, Biden sent a letter to congressional Democrats reiterating his commitment to the race and urging them to focus on defeating Trump. He argued that “any weakening of resolve or lack of clarity about the task ahead only helps Trump and hurts us.”
Newsom also dismissed concerns about Biden’s cognitive abilities, stating he has no doubt about the president’s mental acuity. He cited his extensive interactions with Biden, both public and private, as evidence.
These concerns stem from recent reports about a top neurologist at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center meeting with Biden’s physician at the White House in January. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has denied that Biden has been treated for Parkinson’s disease, a condition that has been speculated about given Biden’s age and recent gaffes.
Amidst the growing pressure, Biden has continued to campaign, with Newsom leading the charge in key swing states. However, Biden’s recent performance and the mounting calls for him to step aside have raised questions about the direction of the campaign and the future of the Democratic Party in the 2024 election.
It remains to be seen whether Biden can weather the storm and maintain momentum in his re-election bid. While Newsom remains a vocal supporter and dismisses any concerns about Biden’s health or cognitive abilities, the calls for Biden to step aside are a growing concern for the Democratic Party.
