Challenges To Biden Mount As Convention Looms

Biden Digs in, Rebuffs Calls to Step Aside

Challenges to Biden mount as convention looms

Chorus of Democrats say president should not run for second term

In a defiant news conference, President Joe Biden on Wednesday insisted he will seek a second term in 2024, brushing aside growing calls from within his own party to step aside.

"I'm not going to speculate about other people's decisions," Biden said when asked about the possibility of facing a primary challenge. "I'm going to do my job, and I'm going to run for reelection."

Biden's comments came as a growing chorus of Democrats, including several prominent members of Congress, have urged him not to run again. They cite his age, his low approval ratings, and the party's need for new leadership.

"It's time for a new generation of leadership in the Democratic Party," said Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.), who announced on Tuesday that he would not support Biden in the 2024 primary.

The calls for Biden to step aside come as the party is preparing for its presidential nominating convention in Milwaukee in July. If Biden does not run, the party will need to find a new nominee. Among the potential candidates are Vice President Kamala Harris, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

Biden's decision to run again will likely set up a contentious primary battle within the Democratic Party. It will also give Republicans a target to attack in the general election.