Biden plans to return to campaign trail as more and more Democrats ask him to drop out

President Joe Biden has pledged to return to the campaign trail next week, showing public defiance even as some close to him privately suggest he might be reconsidering his bid for re-election. While Biden remains isolated at his beach house in Delaware due to Covid, a significant divide is emerging between his public stance and private doubts.

In a public statement, President Biden expressed his eagerness to resume campaigning, aiming to "continue exposing the threat of Donald Trump’s Project 2025 agenda while making the case for my own record." Campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon reinforced this commitment on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” asserting that “he’s in it to win it.”

Behind closed doors, is Biden considering dropping out?

Despite this, behind closed doors, there are growing signs that Biden’s resolve may be weakening. Some close to the president are concerned about the increasing calls for him to step aside and the evidence showing him trailing far behind former President Donald Trump. Trump's recent acceptance speech at the Republican convention, which showcased a unified party behind him, has added to the pressure.

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Many of Biden's allies are choosing to keep their critiques private, feeling sympathy for his predicament and avoiding public calls for him to step down. They worry that going public could make Biden more stubborn in his decision or provoke a negative reaction.

Discussions among Biden’s team have even reached the stage where they are considering the timing and details of a potential announcement if he decides to withdraw from the race. Concerns within his camp are amplified by three key factors: Nancy Pelosi reportedly telling him he is dragging the party down, state polls indicating a narrowing path to victory, and a spending boycott from important party donors.

As Biden navigates these turbulent waters, the contrast between his public determination and the private uncertainties of his closest advisers highlights the complex and evolving nature of his re-election campaign.