Senator Joe Manchin had planned to publicly urge President Biden to step aside following a disastrous debate performance. This decision came after Manchin, who recently left the Democratic Party criticizing its partisan extremism, confided in allies about his intentions to use a TV appearance to call for Biden to withdraw from the re-election race.
However, senior Democrats quickly intervened to prevent Manchin from being the first prominent party ally to break from Biden, leading to a concerted effort to dissuade him.
Manchin, who still caucuses with the Democratic Party, eventually decided not to make the appearance after discussions with top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Some sources claim Schumer’s conversation with Manchin occurred after Manchin had already decided not to appear on TV.
Despite these claims, Manchin’s senior political adviser emphasized that Manchin values diverse political perspectives and will speak his mind when he has something to say.
Joe Manchin
Manchin had been set to appear on MSNBC’s “The Sunday Show With Jonathan Capehart” to make his statement. Despite the intervention, Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first House Democrat to publicly call for Biden to step aside, praising Biden’s achievements but noting widespread dissatisfaction with the current electoral choices.
Doggett cited historical precedent, comparing the situation to Lyndon Johnson’s decision to withdraw under different circumstances.
Internally, many Democratic lawmakers and White House staffers have privately questioned Biden’s candidacy and expressed frustration following his debate performance. Reports indicate a significant level of anxiety and dissatisfaction among White House officials, with concerns over the lack of direction and leadership becoming more pronounced.
The sense of crisis within the White House is palpable, with officials describing an atmosphere of increasing uncertainty and frustration. Staffers are reportedly seeking leadership and direction in what is seen as a critical moment for Biden’s presidency, and there is a growing sense of urgency for the campaign to address these internal concerns and present a united front.
