The announcement by President Joe Biden not to seek a second term in office has sparked a series of reactions from both his supporters and opponents alike. Contrary to popular speculation, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has clarified that this decision was not influenced by the president’s health or any cover-up regarding his cognitive decline.
The announcement came shortly after Biden’s widely criticized debate performance against former President Donald Trump, where he appeared disoriented and struggled to finish his sentences. Despite concerns about his health, Jean-Pierre denied any such allegations and dismissed the president’s struggles as a result of a cold.
In an address to the nation, Biden explained that his decision to step aside stemmed from his desire to “pass the torch to a new generation” and emphasized on preserving democracy in the country. His announcement also followed increased pressure from fellow Democrats and key donors who urged him to suspend his campaign after his debate performance raised concerns about his ability to lead effectively.
In contrast, Kamala Harris has seen an initial surge in her support following Biden’s withdrawal, with some polls showing her ahead of Trump by two points. However, analysts caution that this “bump” may subside over time as the campaign progresses.