President Biden is reportedly facing challenges in his re-election efforts, with concerns raised over his poll numbers in key battleground states. A lawmaker familiar with the situation revealed that Biden expressed frustration and worry during a meeting in January when informed of a dip in his poll numbers in Michigan and Georgia, attributed to his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Reports suggest that Biden feels he is not receiving due credit for his accomplishments and has been actively seeking advice on highlighting his achievements in different states. Additionally, he is said to be surrounded by aides who aim to minimize the risk of any missteps, particularly in light of recent incidents that have raised questions about his mental acuity.
Despite these challenges, sources emphasize Biden's long-standing success in politics and advocate for allowing him to continue in his own style. The President has reportedly engaged in closed-door meetings with top donors to address concerns about his age and energy levels, with at least six sessions held at the White House since the launch of his re-election campaign last spring.
These efforts to reassure supporters align with broader concerns within the Democratic Party regarding Biden's age and vitality. Notable figures like Hillary Clinton have acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the importance of considering such factors in evaluating a presidential candidate.
Former Obama adviser David Axelrod has also highlighted the issue of age as a potential challenge for Biden, particularly in terms of public perception. While acknowledging the fluid nature of polling data, Axelrod underscored the significance of how Biden presents himself to voters, noting that age-related concerns could impact his electoral prospects.
As the 2024 election approaches, Biden faces the task of addressing these concerns while continuing to navigate the complexities of a challenging political landscape.