Key Highlights
- Biden faces pressure from Democrats to drop out of the race.
- Patty Murray releases a letter calling for Biden’s withdrawal.
- Biden’s inner circle considers ending his campaign after health issues.
- Harris remains loyal but keeps her options open.
Pressure Builds on Biden’s Campaign
In the summer of 2024, Joe Biden faced a critical decision: whether to continue or end his presidential bid. The situation was dire, with polling data showing no chance of victory and key Democrats publicly calling for his withdrawal.
Biden’s chief of staff, Jeffrey Zients, received an alarming message from Sen. Patty Murray on July 19, 2024.
Murray, who had previously supported Biden, bluntly informed him that she would release a letter the following week if he did not drop out himself. The support of up to 35 Senate Democrats was expected, signaling a significant shift in party dynamics.
Biden’s Inner Circle Considers His Future
On July 20, 2024, Mike Donilon and Steve Ricchetti gathered with Biden at his Rehoboth Beach home. The discussion centered around the campaign’s viability. Polling data indicated a bleak outlook for Biden, while key political figures such as Sen.
Murray and House Democrats were pushing for his exit.
Donilon summarized the polling results to Biden, emphasizing that there was no chance of winning. He also noted that many Senate Democrats wanted him out of the race, including Nancy Pelosi, who was leading efforts to push Biden aside. Despite this grim picture, Donilon argued that Biden could still win at the Democratic National Convention.
Harris’s Loyal but Calculating Support
Biden’s Vice President Kamala Harris maintained loyalty to her boss but kept a low profile during these critical days. While she did not publicly question Biden’s fitness for office, her aides confirmed that she had declined calls from lawmakers to shore up support among Democrats.
Harris understood the strategic importance of maintaining silence. If she endorsed herself early, it could be misinterpreted as an effort to secure the nomination. This decision was influenced by both loyalty and self-interest, knowing that Biden’s endorsement would significantly strengthen her position at the convention.
The Family’s Role in Deciding
Biden’s family played a crucial role in his decision-making process. His son Hunter emphasized the importance of Biden making the final call. “Mom just kept saying, ‘Joe, only you can make this decision,'” Hunter recalled. Despite the urging to stay in the race from both family and inner circle, Biden’s illness pushed him towards an inevitable conclusion.
On July 24, 2024, Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office, announcing his withdrawal from the race.
The decision was historic, with implications for the future of the Democratic Party leadership. As he hugged his son Hunter and first lady Jill, it marked a significant shift in American politics.
