Nancy Pelosi, former House Speaker, refrained from explicitly endorsing President Joe Biden’s decision to run for the 2024 race during an MSNBC interview on Wednesday. Pelosi emphasized that the choice to run remains Biden’s, but she underscored the urgency of his decision-making process.
“It’s up to the president to decide if he is going to run. We’re all encouraging him to make that decision, because time is running short,” Pelosi remarked when asked about her support for Biden leading the Democratic ticket.
Pelosi acknowledged she couldn’t speak definitively about Biden’s support among congressional Democrats, stating she’s no longer in a leadership position. However, she highlighted Biden’s widespread respect and the collective desire for him to reach a decision soon.
When pressed on her personal preference for Biden’s candidacy, Pelosi responded, “I want him to do whatever he decides to do, and that’s — that’s the way it is. Whatever he decides, we go with.”
Later in the day, Pelosi’s spokesperson reaffirmed her full support for Biden’s decision, emphasizing the critical importance of the upcoming election in preventing Donald Trump from returning to power.
Pelosi’s comments, known for their strategic impact, come amidst speculation and varying opinions within the Democratic Party regarding Biden’s potential candidacy. She advised Democratic colleagues to withhold public statements until further developments unfold.
In response to Pelosi’s remarks, a campaign official referenced Biden’s recent communication to Democratic lawmakers affirming his commitment to continue in the race and defeat Trump. Pelosi herself previously expressed ongoing support for Biden, though she refrained from making definitive statements about his candidacy during recent interactions with the press.
While prominent Democratic leaders like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have reiterated their backing for Biden, some Democrats have publicly suggested otherwise. Notably, several House Democrats have urged Biden to step aside, and Senator Michael Bennet became the first Senate Democrat to express doubts about Biden’s ability to defeat Trump.
Regarding concerns about Biden’s debate performance and health, Pelosi previously noted the validity of questioning whether his performance was indicative of a broader issue. The White House has dismissed any significant health concerns affecting Biden’s candidacy, with Biden himself reaffirming his determination to remain in the race.
Overall, Pelosi’s measured comments reflect the complexity and internal discussions within the Democratic Party as the 2024 election cycle unfolds.
