Biden’s poor debate performance renews questions about Trump, Trudeau and Canada’s future | CBC
Disappointed Democrats stick with Biden after rough debate performance
The first presidential debate between President Biden and former President Donald Trump received mixed reviews.
“It wasn’t Biden’s best night,” admitted Illinois Rep. Robin Kelly. “It pains me to say the president’s performance was bad,” echoed Pennsylvania Rep. Madeleine Dean. Minnesota Rep. Angie Craig described it as a “terrible debate” and is still processing the event. Despite these reactions, many congressional Democrats are not ready to abandon Biden, despite some calls within the party to consider another nominee.
“That was strike one,” said Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina. “If this were a ball game, he’s got two more swings.” Clyburn urged Democrats to “stay the course.”
Clyburn’s support for Biden is notable, given his pivotal 2020 endorsement. He emphasized focusing on Biden’s record rather than debate performance. “We should focus on the Biden record,” Clyburn said, describing Biden as a “workhorse” working for the American people against a “show horse” opponent.
Nancy Pelosi and Obama Weigh In
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi shared her impressions, contrasting Biden’s integrity with Trump’s dishonesty. “Compared to a person who was lying the whole time, we saw integrity on one side and dishonesty on the other,” Pelosi stated.
Former President Barack Obama also voiced support on social media, acknowledging that bad debate nights happen but stressing the stakes of the upcoming election. “This election is still a choice between someone who has fought for ordinary folks his entire life and someone who only cares about himself,” Obama posted.
Mixed Reactions Among Democrats
However, not all Democrats were as forgiving. “That’s beyond my pay grade,” said Rep. Tom Suozzi of New York, when asked if Biden should step aside.
A memo from Biden campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon claimed that the debate had not significantly altered the race, which remains close. The memo emphasized that Biden’s supporters are more energized than ever.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) held a call on Saturday to discuss various topics, including fundraising and grassroots efforts. DNC spokesperson Hannah Muldavin clarified that the call did not focus on Biden’s debate performance.
The Biden campaign raised $27 million from the end of the debate through Friday evening, indicating strong financial support.
Looking Ahead
Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire expressed uncertainty about Biden’s future, acknowledging his achievements but suggesting further assessment is needed. “He had a really bad night,” Shaheen said, indicating that future discussions will determine the next steps.
Other lawmakers, like Rep. Debbie Dingell of Michigan, downplayed concerns about Biden’s impact on down-ballot races. “I am not part of the drama of this town that immediately demands because somebody had a bad night we’re in crisis,” Dingell remarked. Rep. Robert Garcia of California, confident in Biden’s nomination, insisted that voters won’t decide based on one debate performance.
The White House confirmed that Biden was suffering from a cold during the debate. Speaking to a North Carolina crowd, Biden acknowledged his missteps but emphasized his commitment to honesty. “I know I’m not a young man,” the 81-year-old stated. “But I know how to tell the truth.”
The debate’s aftermath has left Democrats grappling with mixed feelings but largely unified in support of Biden. As the campaign progresses, Biden’s ability to rebound from this performance will be closely watched.
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