Ocasio-Cortez Doubles Down on Biden Support: ‘Not Leaving This Race’
By Jake Beardslee ·
July 9, 2024
Despite mounting pressure from within Democratic ranks for President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) has renewed her commitment to his re-election campaign. The progressive politician's endorsement arrives amid heightened concern among some party members regarding Biden's viability as a candidate, particularly in light of his latest debate performance. Akash Pamarthy / USA TODAY NETWORK
In a statement to reporters outside the Capitol, Ocasio-Cortez emphasized her recent communications with the President. "I have spoken to the president over the weekend. I have spoken with him extensively," she said, according to The New York Times. Jack Gruber, USA TODAY, USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Content Services, LLC
Reiterating Biden's commitment to the race, she added, "The matter is closed. He had reiterated that this morning. He has reiterated that to the public. Joe Biden is our nominee. He is not leaving this race. He is in this race, and I support him." Matt Johnson from Omaha, Nebraska, United StateS / Wikimedia
The congresswoman's declaration of support comes as the Democratic Party grapples with internal divisions. At least six House Democrats have publicly called for the 81-year-old incumbent to step aside, while others have expressed similar sentiments privately. However, many party leaders, including those in the Congressional Black Caucus and Congressional Hispanic Caucus, have intensified their backing for Biden, The Times reported. Max Correa / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
President Biden himself has responded forcefully to these challenges. In an interview with MSNBC's "Morning Joe," he said, "I'm getting frustrated by the elites in the party, 'Oh, they know so much more.'" He went on to challenge his critics directly: "Any of these guys that don't think I should run, run against me. Announce for president, challenge me at the convention." Max Correa / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
Ocasio-Cortez also touched on the contrast between the Democratic and Republican parties, noting that despite former President Trump's recent legal troubles, "not a single Republican has asked for Donald Trump to not be the nominee." Jay Janner / USA TODAY NETWORK
The New York representative also outlined what she believes is necessary for a successful campaign, emphasizing the importance of addressing voters' concerns and committing to key issues. "If we can do that and continue our work on student loans, secure a cease-fire, and bring those dollars back into investing in public policy, then that's how we win in November," she stated. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK
