Washington, DC – Joe Biden reaffirms his stance to remain steadfast in the ongoing election race despite calls for his withdrawal, emphasizing his determination to challenge Donald Trump in the upcoming polls.

However, concerns persist over Biden’s age following a lackluster debate performance that portrayed moments of ambiguity and difficulty in articulating policy positions.

A recent Washington Post/ABC poll revealed that a majority of respondents, including a significant portion of Democrats, advocate for Biden to terminate his campaign.

Subsequently, Democratic Congress members, including Hillary Scholten, Greg Stanton, and Ed Case, have added their voices to the chorus urging Biden to step down.

I was one of President Biden's earliest supporters in 2020, and I'm proud of the progress we've made for Arizona.

However, the stakes in this election are paramount. For the country's sake, it is imperative for the President to pass on the torch to a new generation of leaders. pic.twitter.com/KSX1jd0O6m

— Greg Stanton (@gregstantonaz) July 11, 2024

Amidst mounting pressure, Biden's political crisis is compounded by a wave of critical news reports sourced anonymously questioning his leadership capabilities.

On the opposing front, the progressive faction of the Democratic Party expresses support for Biden, highlighting solidarity despite reservations concerning the administration's unwavering backing of Israel and its actions in Gaza.

Senator Bernie Sanders and other left-wing figures have endorsed Biden, advocating for more progressive agendas to resonate with the working class.

Furthermore, Biden's defenders point to policies benefiting American workers and engage in robust media appearances countering criticisms as attempts by elites to subvert the voters' will.

Notably, Biden utilizes the NATO summit in Washington, DC, to showcase his foreign affairs acumen and emphasize American leadership values during the ongoing Ukrainian crisis.

What comes next?

Regardless of internal and external pressures, Biden's decision to withdraw from the race remains solely at his discretion.

Having emerged victorious during the primary elections with an overwhelming majority of pledged delegates, Biden is poised to secure the Democratic nomination at the forthcoming convention in Chicago.

If Biden opts to withdraw, the selection of a new nominee would fall to thousands of Democratic Party representatives and activists at the convention.

Tammy Greer highlights that urging Biden to step down without a clear alternative only benefits his opponent, Donald Trump, whom Democrats perceive as a threat to democracy.

Matt Dallek speculates on the potential outcomes of a contested convention, noting historical precedents where party nominees were chosen through varied ballots before the advent of the modern primary system.