US President Joe Biden, who will turn 82 in November, is facing increasing pressure from within his own party and the entertainment industry to step aside and not seek re-election in 2024. With an estimated net worth of $9 million, Biden has been married to First Lady Jill Biden since 1977, and they have a daughter, Ashley Biden. Joe also has two sons, Hunter and the late Beau Biden, from his first marriage to Neilia Hunter Biden.
Debate Performance Criticized
Recent events have intensified the scrutiny on Biden’s capacity to continue as president. During a highly publicized debate with former president Donald Trump, Biden’s performance was widely criticized. He showed signs of confusion and struggled to articulate his points, particularly when discussing Medicare. This poor showing has led many supporters and prominent voices to question his fitness for office.
Hollywood’s Call for Change
Several major figures in Hollywood have called for Biden to step down. Celebrated author Stephen King, who previously endorsed Biden, publicly urged him to announce that he will not run for re-election. King’s sentiment was echoed by talk show host Stephen Colbert, who expressed his concerns on his Late Night show, suggesting that Biden should prioritize the country over his own ambitions.
Directors Speak Out
Director Rob Reiner also joined the chorus, warning that a Trump victory would be disastrous for democracy and suggesting that Biden should step aside. Filmmaker Michael Moore took a different angle, accusing the Democratic Party of “elder abuse” by pushing Biden to continue his campaign despite his evident struggles during the debate.
Donors’ Concerns
The call for Biden to step down has not been limited to the entertainment industry. Prominent Democratic donors, including Disney heiress Abigail Disney and Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings, have voiced their concerns. Disney warned that without a change at the top of the ticket, the GOP could win in November. Hastings called for a vigorous Democratic leader to replace Biden and ensure a win against Trump.
Biden’s Defiance
Despite these calls, President Biden remains defiant. In an open letter to Democrats, he reiterated his commitment to the race and his belief in his ability to beat Donald Trump. Biden emphasized that he had listened to the concerns of his party but remained convinced that he was the best candidate to secure a Democratic victory.
Age and Performance Issues
Biden’s age and recent performance have become focal points for criticism. Damon Lindelof, co-creator of the television series Lost, penned a guest column for Deadline urging Biden to step down. Lindelof called for a boycott of donations to the Democratic Party until a new candidate is chosen. His stance was supported by other influential voices, increasing the pressure on Biden.
Internal Party Rift
The calls for Biden to step down are causing a rift within the Democratic Party. If these prominent voices and donors withdraw their support, it could significantly impact Biden’s campaign and his chances of re-election. The situation highlights a broader concern within the party about finding a candidate who can unite the Democrats and defeat Trump in the upcoming election.
Mixed Reactions
The response from the public and within the party has been mixed. While some agree with the need for fresh leadership, others remain loyal to Biden, appreciating his experience and previous accomplishments. The debate over Biden’s future reflects a broader discussion about the direction of the Democratic Party and its strategy for the 2024 election.
Future Prospects
As the 2024 election approaches, the question of whether Biden should continue his campaign is becoming increasingly contentious. The president’s age, recent debate performance, and growing calls from influential supporters and donors to step aside are creating a challenging environment for his re-election bid. Whether Biden can overcome these obstacles and rally his supporters will be crucial in determining his political future and the outcome of the 2024 presidential race.
Conclusion
President Joe Biden’s bid for re-election in 2024 is under significant scrutiny from both within his party and the broader public. His recent debate performance has sparked concerns about his fitness for office, with several prominent figures and donors calling for him to step aside. As Biden remains steadfast in his commitment to run, the Democratic Party faces a critical decision on whether to support their incumbent president or seek new leadership to ensure victory in the upcoming election.