CNN analyst and former Obama administration employee Van Jones expressed his astonishment at President Joe Biden being sidelined from his election campaign activities following his announcement of testing positive for the COVID-19 virus, while his competitor, Donald Trump, continued his activities at a notable pace despite facing an assassination attempt that resulted in a bullet wound to his ear.
Jones, a Democrat, stated, "Former President Donald Trump continued his campaign at a rapid pace despite being shot, while President Biden was on the sidelines due to COVID." In recent hours, it was announced that Biden tested positive for the coronavirus during his visit to Las Vegas, leading to the cancellation of a campaign event. He will isolate himself in Delaware following the diagnosis. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre commented, "He has been vaccinated and boosted and is experiencing mild symptoms."
Observers indicate that Biden's infection with the virus "comes at the worst possible time for the current president, as he faces escalating pressure within the Democratic Party to withdraw his candidacy." Jones remarked, "Some want Biden to stay in office... but today if you step back and look, you will find 'strength versus weakness'. A bullet couldn't stop Trump, but a virus stopped Biden."
He added, "Democrats are falling apart, while Republicans are coming together; that's what happened. At some point, this party (the Democrats) has to confront that reality." Voters note that Trump, who was shot, made an appearance at the Republican National Convention two days later, while Biden, at the heart of the most crucial period to save his political future, has entered self-isolation and is likely to be cut off from the outside world during this time. Sources suggest that he may seriously consider withdrawing in favor of his vice president, Kamala Harris, during his isolation.
CNN analyst Van Jones mentioned that the increasing pressure Biden faces from voters and party members to exit the race might soon reach its peak. He observed during the coverage of the Republican national convention, "While some voters stand by Biden, the pressure has become too great to bear."
Media reports indicate that former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is leading a campaign urging Biden to step down, with concerns over his ability to defeat Donald Trump, who has become more favored. Additionally, it has been reported that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) specifically encouraged Biden to step aside.
Major Democratic donors, including George Clooney, have urged Biden to pass the torch or warned him that campaign funds are drying up. Biden has strongly rejected calls to resign, although CNN reported on Wednesday that he has recently shown some flexibility and is contemplating whether Harris could win as a substitute candidate, indicating he is genuinely considering withdrawal.
Harris is the first name mentioned to replace Biden should he leave the race, along with a long list of prominent Democrats expected to compete for the vice presidency.
