In a resounding show of unity and support, Democrat governors rallied behind President Joe Biden during a White House meeting on Wednesday. Following their discussions on the future of the Democratic Party, the governors affirmed their commitment to Biden’s leadership and re-election campaign, emphasizing their readiness to back him fully as the 2024 presidential race intensifies.
“The governors have his back,” declared Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who chairs the Democratic Governors Association, speaking to reporters outside the White House. “A path to victory in November is the number one priority, and that’s the number one priority of the president,” he added, describing the meeting with President Biden as “honest.”
The gathering saw a mix of in-person and virtual attendance from key Democratic governors, including Illinois’ J.B. Pritzker, New York’s Kathy Hochul, California’s Gavin Newsom, and Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer. Vice President Kamala Harris was also present, further underscoring the administration’s cohesive stance.
The meeting came at a critical juncture, following calls from some Democratic lawmakers and media outlets for President Biden to reconsider his candidacy after a contentious debate with former President Donald Trump. Despite these pressures, the governors unequivocally voiced their allegiance to Biden.
California Governor Gavin Newsom and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, both frequently mentioned as potential presidential contenders, reiterated their unwavering support for Biden. “I heard three words from the President tonight—he’s all in. And so am I. @JoeBiden’s had our back. Now it’s time to have his,” Newsom posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Similarly, Whitmer tweeted, “@JoeBiden is our nominee. He is in it to win it and I support him.”
In a direct message to his supporters via email on Wednesday, President Biden reaffirmed his commitment to the race, making it clear that he intends to see the campaign through to the end. “So, let me say this as clearly and simply as I can: I’m running,” Biden stated in the email. “I’m the Democratic Party’s nominee. No one is pushing me out. I’m not leaving, I’m in this race to the end, and WE are going to win this election.”
This email, the first from Biden’s team since the June 27 debate, sought to dispel any doubts about his candidacy and rally grassroots donors to support his campaign. The decisive tone echoed his internal discussions with campaign staff earlier that day.
Addressing concerns during a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre categorically denied any suggestion that President Biden might step down. “The president is clear-eyed, and he is staying in the race. That is what the president has promised to do,” she affirmed.
Jean-Pierre also mentioned that President Biden had engaged in conversations with key Democratic leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Representative Jim Clyburn, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senator Chris Coons, to consolidate support and address any lingering concerns post-debate.
Looking ahead, President Biden’s campaign schedule includes a July 4 event in Wisconsin, where he will be interviewed by ABC News’ George Stephanopoulos. Following that, Biden will host the NATO summit in Washington, marking the alliance’s 75th anniversary amidst rising global tensions with Russia and China. The White House has announced that Biden will hold a press conference during the summit, further cementing his leadership on the international stage.
As the Democratic governors stand united behind President Biden, their collective endorsement sends a strong message of solidarity and determination. With their backing, Biden’s campaign aims to build momentum and galvanize support as the 2024 election approaches, reaffirming his position as the Democratic Party’s steadfast leader.
