International

Report: Obama joins calls urging Biden to quit presidential race amid concerns over his fitness

July 18, 2024 8:13 pm

Former US President Barack Obama.

Former US President Barack Obama has expressed doubts about Joe Biden’s chances of retaining the White House ahead of the November polls.

Obama is said to have been deeply engaged in conversations about the future of Biden’s campaign, taking calls from many anxious Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi, a former House speaker, the Washington Post reports.

Citing sources familiar with the calls, the newspaper reported that the former president had told allies recently that Biden’s path to victory has greatly diminished, adding that he thinks the president needs to seriously consider the viability of his candidacy.

Obama’s concerns come against an increasing anxiety gripping the Democratic Party about Biden’s prospects and their ability to reclaim the house.

Although Biden and his team have remained defiant in public, analysts say the growing pressure is getting to the president.

Calls for the 81-year-old to withdraw from the race began to heighten after his feeble performance against Donald Trump in their presidential debate.

Obama had expressed support for Biden after the spar, saying “bad debate nights happen,” but has been largely silent as the discontent grows.

Faltering steps and increased gaffes in recent times have also done little to convince citizens of the president’s mental alertness, despite his repeated assurances of being capable of handling the job.

On Wednesday, the White House said Biden tested positive for COVID-19 and is suffering from mild symptoms.