Nancy Pelosi Named as Key Figure in Biden’s Decision to Drop Out of 2024 Race
By Jake Beardslee ·
August 11, 2024
In his first television interview since withdrawing from the 2024 presidential race, Joe Biden disclosed that prominent Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, influenced his decision to step aside. The Biden White House / Wikimedia
Speaking to CBS News, Biden explained that concerns about his potential impact on down-ballot races played a significant role. He stated, "A number of my Democratic colleagues in the House and Senate thought that I was going to hurt them in the races." Mikala Compton/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK
Biden, now 81, expressed worry that his continued candidacy would become a distraction. He remarked, "I was concerned if I stayed in the race, that would be the topic — you'd be interviewing me about why did Nancy Pelosi say [something] … and I thought it'd be a real distraction."
The former president also touched on his age, admitting, "I can't even say how old I am — it's hard for me to get out of my mouth." He cited this, along with his initial view of himself as a "transition president" and the importance of "maintaining this democracy," as factors in his decision. The Biden White House / Wikimedia
Biden's withdrawal came after a controversial debate performance against Donald Trump in late June, which sparked a rebellion within the Democratic Party. Following his exit, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, who has since gained ground against Trump in polls. Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia
While Biden didn't elaborate on any specific issues with Pelosi, reports suggest she played a crucial role in orchestrating his departure. Pelosi allegedly pressured Biden with polling data indicating his potential loss in the presidential election, CNN reported. Maryland GovPics / Wikimedia
When asked about rumors of Biden's anger towards her, Pelosi told CBS News, "He knows that I love him very much." However, as of early August, the two had not spoken since Biden's withdrawal. Maryland GovPics / Wikimedia
Despite stepping down, Biden plans to support Harris's campaign, stating, "I'm going to do whatever Kamala thinks I can do to help most." Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia
He also expressed concern about a potential transition of power if Trump loses the upcoming election, saying he's "not confident at all" it would be peaceful. Joshua L. Jones / USA TODAY NETWORK
