As President Joe Biden faces the heat to step aside, former US house speaker
Nancy Pelosi
weighed in on Wednesday amid speculation gaining speed over the party's further course of action regarding his candidacy. Pelosi treading the rope carefully on Biden's candidacy, said on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” that “it’s up to the president to decide if he is going to run,” adding that it would be best if the president took a decision no later because "time is running short," New York Times reported.
Although Pelosi acknowledged Biden's "spectacular" performance during his speech at the Nato summit, she added, “We’re all encouraging him to make that decision because time is running short. It’s not for me to say, I’m not the head of the caucus anymore, but he’s beloved, he is respected, and people want him to make that decision.”
Pelosi's comments are closely watched for signals of the Democratic party's stance, particularly given Biden's challenging position in the campaign against Donald Trump.
Biden, however has assured Democrats of his unwavering commitment to stay in the race, saying, "Despite speculation in the press, I am firmly committed to staying in this race, running it to the end, and defeating Donald Trump."
Pelosi, as a former house speaker and a key ally of Biden, wields significant influence within the Democratic Party, making her opinions crucial as Democrats assess potential alternatives for the presidential race.
When asked about her personal views on Biden continuing his campaign, Pelosi said, "I want him to do whatever he decides to do." This lack of unequivocal support suggests lingering uncertainties within the Democratic Party regarding Biden's campaign. Despite Biden's assertion that no external pressure can force him to withdraw, Pelosi's remarks hint at ongoing deliberations within his party.
However, Pelosi also praised Biden, saying he "has been a great president" highly respected among House Democrats. Amid visits by foreign leaders to Washington, she suggested caution, urging Democrats to refrain from making premature campaign announcements.
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