"I Feel Good," Says Biden Amid Growing Concerns Over His Re-election Bid

Pesident Joe Biden faces renewed scrutiny over his candidacy for the upcoming November election, following a pause in his campaign due to a Covid-19 infection. Top Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have reportedly expressed concerns over his re-election bid in private meetings with him. 

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has also reportedly told Biden that she believes he cannot defeat Donald Trump in the November election, according to CNN. This dissent follows Biden's poor performance in a recent debate against Trump.

Biden announced his Covid infection on Wednesday, with his press secretary stating that the 81-year-old president is experiencing mild symptoms. He will isolate at his home in Delaware while continuing to fulfill his duties. Biden, who is vaccinated and boosted, has tested positive for Covid twice before.

Earlier that day, Biden visited supporters in Las Vegas and spoke at an event but had to cancel a subsequent speech at UnidosUS, a Latino civil rights organization. His trip aimed at reviving support among Hispanic voters was abruptly cut short due to his illness.

Concerns among Democratic leaders have intensified, with Schumer and Jeffries warning that Biden's presence on the ticket could jeopardize their chances of controlling Congress. Despite these concerns, Biden has asserted his intention to remain the party's nominee and win the election.

Pelosi has reportedly echoed these concerns, citing polling data suggesting Biden's candidacy could harm the Democrats' chances of winning the House. Publicly, about two dozen Democratic politicians, including Congressman Adam Schiff, have called for Biden to step aside, urging him to secure his legacy by allowing another Democrat to run.

In an interview with BET, Biden stated that he could not "pass the mantle" given the country's current divisions, but he did acknowledge that he would consider withdrawing if advised by his doctors.