Biden asks for donations as worries remain about his debate performance
President Joe Biden recently attended a fundraiser in Red Bank, N.J., where he reassured donors of his ability to defeat Donald Trump in the upcoming election. Despite a challenging performance at the first presidential debate, Biden expressed his determination to fight harder against Trump, whom he described as a genuine threat to the nation.
During the fundraiser at the home of New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Biden emphasized the importance of preventing Trump from returning to the White House, citing concerns about the former president’s impact on democracy and potential economic policies that could worsen inflation.
Following the debate, where Biden faced criticism for his meandering answers and struggles to respond to Trump, concerns arose among Democrats about his ability to secure victory in the election. The New York Times editorial board even suggested that Biden should exit the race, calling his continuation a “reckless gamble.”
Despite these challenges, Biden and his wife, Jill, remained active on the campaign trail. They attended events in East Hampton, New York, hosted by prominent figures such as Avram Glazer, an owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers football team, and investor Barry Rosenstein. Supporters at the events praised Biden for his resilience and ability to overcome adversity.
During his speeches, Biden criticized Trump’s presidential record, particularly regarding his treatment of veterans and his performance at the debate. He also highlighted the importance of comparing presidencies rather than debate performances.
In the aftermath of the debate, Biden appeared more vigorous during speeches in North Carolina and New York, where he expressed his unwavering belief in his capabilities as president. Jill Biden, in a conversation with supporters, emphasized the need to focus on Biden’s four-year presidency rather than a single debate performance.
While concerns lingered among Democratic donors about Biden’s campaign viability, there was no formal push to pressure him to step aside. Some donors discussed possible replacements, including Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Governor Gavin Newsom, and Vice President Kamala Harris, but logistical challenges associated with replacing Biden just months before the election posed significant obstacles.
Despite these challenges, donors expressed a willingness to continue supporting Biden’s campaign, with receipts from the fundraiser expected to remain strong. As Biden faces public pressure and scrutiny following the debate, his ability to rally support and reaffirm his commitment to defeating Trump will be crucial in the upcoming election.
