Since his problematic debate performance on June 28, calls for Joe Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race have increased almost daily. Influential figures, from former tech CEOs to Democratic lawmakers and Hollywood stars, are now urging Biden to reconsider his candidacy.
Actor George Clooney, a prominent donor, has publicly questioned Biden’s ability to lead in a New York Times essay, noting that Biden isn’t “even the Joe Biden of 2020.”
Biden’s campaign struggles were highlighted again on Thursday. Despite a generally strong showing at the NATO summit, Biden’s verbal slip-ups, such as confusing President Volodymyr Zelensky with “President Putin” and calling Kamala Harris “Vice President Trump,” drew significant attention and concern.
As of Friday, at least 18 Democratic lawmakers and numerous other notable figures have called for Biden to step aside. However, over four dozen lawmakers and governors continue to support him, while others express concerns but stop short of calling for his withdrawal.
Prominent Hollywood figures and major donors like George Clooney, Reed Hastings, Rob Reiner, and Stephen King are now asking Biden to step down. Bill Harris, former CEO of PayPal and Intuit, is organizing a “mini primary” if Biden decides to exit. Some major donors, such as Reid Hoffman, remain supportive but note growing unease among their peers.
Finance-Minded Members of Congress
Key Democratic lawmakers involved in economic policy are also withdrawing support. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has hinted at a break with Biden, while Rep. Jim Himes and Rep. Scott Peters have directly called for new leadership post-NATO summit. Julián Castro and Senate Banking Committee Chair Sherrod Brown have also expressed doubts about Biden’s prospects.
