President Biden met with 20 Democratic governors on Wednesday night at the White House in an effort to garner support following a shaky debate performance the previous week. The governors in attendance included Tim Walz of Minnesota, Gavin Newsom of California, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Kathy Hochul of New York, Wes Moore of Maryland, John Carney of Delaware, Maura Healey of Massachusetts, Dan McKee of Rhode Island, and Andy Beshear of Kentucky. Other governors participated virtually in the meeting.
Following the meeting, Governor Walz assured reporters that President Biden is fit for office despite the poor debate performance. He acknowledged the impact of the debate on public perception but emphasized his belief in Biden’s ability to deliver as President. Governor Moore echoed similar sentiments, stating that the governors were honest in their feedback while reaffirming their support for Biden.
Governor Hochul expressed confidence in Biden’s commitment to winning the election, noting that the stakes are high and that all governors present pledged their support to him. Governor Newsom, in a separate statement, reiterated his full support for Biden, emphasizing that the President is “all in” and that it is time for others to support him as well.
During the meeting, three governors, including Jared Polis of Colorado, Janet Mills of Maine, and Michelle Luján Grisham of New Mexico, expressed concerns about Biden’s electoral chances in their states. They openly questioned his ability to win over voters, citing age as a potential barrier to success. Despite the criticism, President Biden remained resolute in his decision to continue running for reelection.
The meeting with the governors came amidst pressure on the White House and Biden campaign to address concerns raised after the debate. Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first Democratic lawmaker to call on Biden to drop out of the race, a suggestion that was quickly dismissed by the campaign. In an all-staff campaign call, President Biden reaffirmed his commitment to running for reelection, stating unequivocally that he is the Democratic nominee and will not be pushed out of the race.
The meeting with the governors is significant as it marks a shift in strategy, with Biden personally engaging with elected officials to shore up support. Prior to this meeting, it was primarily Biden’s aides and advisors who were reaching out to reassure Democrats after the debate. Members of the Democratic Governors’ Association had expressed concerns about the lack of outreach from Biden during the campaign year, prompting the decision for the governors to hear directly from the President.
Governor Beshear, who acknowledged the rough debate performance, reiterated his support for Biden as long as he remains in the race. Governors Pritzker and Whitmer, who have been mentioned as potential replacements for Biden, also showed their support by co-headlining a fundraiser for the President. Despite the challenges, Governor Moore emphasized his loyalty to Biden, declaring him as the nominee and leader of the Democratic Party.
In conclusion, President Biden’s meeting with Democratic governors served as a platform for candid discussions about his campaign’s future and strategies to address concerns raised after the debate. The governors pledged their support to Biden, recognizing the importance of unity and focus in the upcoming election. Despite the criticism and pressure, Biden remains determined to continue his bid for reelection, with the backing of key Democratic leaders and supporters.
