By D. W. G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
Pause in Campaign Due to Covid 19
President Joe Biden's re election campaign has hit a significant hurdle as he battles a Covid 19 infection, prompting questions about his candidacy for the upcoming November election. Following his diagnosis, Biden's campaign events have been put on hold, adding to the already mounting pressures from within his party. The president's press secretary announced that Biden, who is experiencing mild symptoms, will be isolating at his Delaware home while continuing his presidential duties. Despite being vaccinated and boosted, this marks his third positive Covid 19 test. The abrupt end to his Las Vegas trip, where he aimed to reconnect with Hispanic voters, has further spotlighted his health and campaign readiness.
Biden's pause comes after a day filled with public engagements, including a visit to a Mexican restaurant where he interacted with supporters. However, his apparent fatigue and slower movements raised concerns. The president's physician, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, confirmed that Biden had been given Paxlovid and was managing upper respiratory symptoms. Despite these challenges, Biden expressed his determination to continue working for the American people during his recovery, emphasizing his commitment through a series of posts on social media.
Internal Party Pressure and Election Concerns
Amid Biden's health issues, internal dissent within the Democratic Party has grown louder. Top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have reportedly met with Biden to voice concerns about his re election bid. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has also privately suggested that Biden may not be able to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election. This internal strife follows Biden's widely criticized debate performance against Trump, which has shaken confidence among some party leaders.
The calls for Biden to reconsider his candidacy are becoming more public, with figures like Congressman Adam Schiff urging him to "pass the torch." Schiff praised Biden's presidency but suggested that stepping aside could secure his legacy. Biden, however, remains resolute, citing the country's divisions as a reason to continue his campaign. He did hint that medical advice could influence his decision, acknowledging for the first time that he would consider dropping out if his doctors recommended it.
The situation is further complicated by the political dynamics within the Democratic Party. Both Schumer and Jeffries have conveyed the concerns of their caucuses to Biden, emphasizing the potential impact on their control of Congress. Pelosi has also raised concerns about polling data suggesting Biden's candidacy could jeopardize Democratic chances in the House. Despite these pressures, Biden's camp remains confident, with White House spokesperson Andrew Bates reaffirming Biden's intent to win and work collaboratively with party leaders.
As the CMA's investigation into Microsoft's AI dealings unfolds, the political landscape for Biden continues to be fraught with challenges. The president's ability to navigate these internal party dynamics, coupled with his health recovery, will be crucial in the lead up to the November election.
