President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the 2024 election stunned political observers, but behind the scenes, pressure from his own party, particularly from former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, played a pivotal role.
Biden’s withdrawal has sparked tensions within the Democratic Party, following an ultimatum from Pelosi that has put a strain on the pair's 50-year friendship, as the Daily Mail reports.
On Sunday, June 21, President Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. This unexpected decision came via a digitally signed tweet, with the White House quickly asserting that the choice was Biden's alone. However, emerging reports reveal that the president faced mounting pressure from prominent Democratic leaders, with Pelosi's intervention being particularly impactful.
Biden's health had recently come under scrutiny as he tested positive for COVID-19, leading to his isolation in Delaware with first lady Jill Biden and a select group of aides. Despite his previous insistence that he would seek re-election, Biden reportedly began drafting his withdrawal letter on Saturday night, just hours after receiving an urgent message from Pelosi.
According to four sources, Pelosi had issued a stark warning: if Biden did not step aside, she would release polling data suggesting he would struggle to defeat former President Donald Trump in a general election. Both Pelosi and the White House have denied any phone conversation took place between them, but the impact of Pelosi’s pressure is evident.
Biden and Pelosi have shared a political alliance dating back to the 1970s, a relationship characterized by mutual respect and collaboration on significant legislative initiatives. However, the recent developments have strained this once-close friendship, with both leaders now facing the repercussions of this political fallout.
In the aftermath of his withdrawal, Biden reached out to several congressional leaders, pointedly excluding Pelosi. The former House Speaker, currently promoting her memoir, has publicly denied orchestrating a campaign to force Biden out of the race. "No, I wasn’t the leader of any pressure [campaign]," Pelosi stated in a recent interview, while also expressing concern over the current rift with Biden.
Other Democratic leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, were also involved in urging Biden to step down. Schumer’s meeting with Biden in Delaware a week before the announcement has been noted as another key moment leading to Biden's decision.
The decision to withdraw has not only affected Biden politically but has also had personal ramifications within his inner circle. Jill Biden, who was reportedly worried about her husband’s dignity throughout the ordeal, has been particularly upset by the role Pelosi played in the process. There is also reported tension between Pelosi and Hunter Biden, further complicating the situation.
Biden, however, appears to be focusing on his legacy rather than dwelling on the circumstances surrounding his exit. After announcing his withdrawal, he turned his attention to promoting the "Biden Cancer Moonshot" initiative during a visit to New Orleans. Despite the ongoing political turmoil, Biden is determined to cement his legacy on his own terms.
Looking ahead, Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to be officially tapped as the Democratic Party nominee this coming week in Chicago. Biden is set to make a brief appearance at the party's convention, addressing the crowd on Monday night. The focus will likely be on unity within the party as it prepares for the upcoming election, despite the underlying tensions that have been brought to light by Biden’s withdrawal.
As Pelosi continues to promote her memoir, she reflects on her long-standing relationship with Biden, noting the kindness and thoughtfulness he has shown over the years. "He was so prayerful, kind, and thoughtful," she writes, acknowledging the depth of their connection while also grappling with the reality of their current estrangement.
In summary, President Biden's decision to exit the 2024 race, spurred by an ultimatum from Nancy Pelosi, has exposed deep divisions within the Democratic Party and tested a friendship that has endured for five decades. As Biden focuses on his legacy and Pelosi navigates the political and personal aftermath, the ripple effects of this moment will likely be felt for years to come.
