Pelosi Says Biden Must ‘Decide if He’s Going to Run’
By Jake Beardslee ·
July 10, 2024
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi's recent comments on President Biden's re-election bid have sparked discussion about the future of the Democratic presidential nomination. In an interview on MSNBC's "Morning Joe," Pelosi stopped short of endorsing Biden, instead emphasizing that the decision to run lies with the president himself.
"It's up to the president to decide if he is going to run," Pelosi stated. "We're all encouraging him to make that decision. Because time is running short." William Bretzger-Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK
The former Speaker's remarks come in the wake of Biden's controversial debate performance last month, which has led to increased calls from some Democrats for the president to step aside. However, Pelosi was quick to highlight Biden's standing within the party, noting, "He's beloved. He is respected and people want him to make that decision, not me." Jack Gruber, Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK
Despite Pelosi's comments suggesting uncertainty, President Biden has been unequivocal about his intentions to remain in the race. In a recent call with donors, he asserted, "The Democratic nominee is me," The Washington Post reported. Max Correa / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
When pressed further on whether she wants Biden to run, Pelosi maintained her neutral stance, saying, "I want him to do whatever he decides to do. And that's, that's the way it is. Whatever he decides, we go with." Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
The former Speaker also urged her colleagues to refrain from public speculation about Biden's candidacy, at least for the time being. "I've said to everyone, let's just hold off, whatever you're thinking, either tell somebody privately, but you don't have to put that out on the table until we see how we go this week," she said, referring to the ongoing NATO conference in Washington, D.C. Martin Klimek-USA TODAY
Pelosi's comments reflect the growing unease within the Democratic Party following Biden's debate performance. While a handful of House Democrats have publicly called for Biden to step aside, sources suggest that many more share this sentiment privately, according to the Associated Press. Max Correa / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
The situation is further complicated by the approaching Democratic National Convention, scheduled for August 22. With time running short, the party faces increasing pressure to solidify its presidential ticket. Clay Banks / Unsplash
Despite the calls for Biden to step aside, he has maintained his commitment to the race. However, Pelosi's remarks suggest that even among top Democratic leadership, there may be some uncertainty about the best path forward for the party. Trevor Hughes/USA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK
As the debate over Biden's candidacy continues, all eyes will be on the president's upcoming press conference, where he is expected to address concerns about his performance and reaffirm his commitment to the race. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the Democratic Party rallies behind Biden or if calls for an alternative candidate gain further traction. Jack Gruber/USA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK
