Democratic senators Tester and Kaine to miss Biden campaign meeting amid growing worries about 2024.
Amid growing concerns about President Biden’s fitness, some Senate Democrats are opting out of a special meeting with his campaign advisers. Sen. Jon Tester of Montana is one such Democrat who has decided not to attend the meeting at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) with senior Biden advisers Mike Donilon, Steve Ricchetti, and campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon.
Tester, a vulnerable Democrat up for re-election, declined to elaborate on his reasons for skipping the meeting. This move comes as worries about Biden’s capabilities persist within Congress, prompting some to question his ability to lead effectively.
Another Senate Democrat, Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, is also forgoing the special meeting. Kaine, who is running for re-election in a state that has shown support for former President Trump, cited campaign commitments in Virginia as his reason for potentially missing the meeting.
With some Democrats expressing concerns about Biden’s performance and leadership, there is speculation that split-ticket voting may become more common in the upcoming elections. This trend could be a response to the perceived shortcomings of the current administration and a desire for change among voters.
As the debate over Biden’s suitability for office continues, Senate Democrats facing re-election are under pressure to navigate these uncertainties. Some, like Sens. Tester and Kaine, are choosing to distance themselves from the president’s campaign advisers in an effort to maintain their political viability and appeal to a diverse electorate.
While some Senate Democrats have declined to attend the special meeting with Biden’s advisers, others have not provided a clear stance on their participation. Senators like Sherrod Brown of Ohio, Bob Casey of Pennsylvania, Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota have yet to confirm their attendance or absence from the meeting.
Overall, the decision of Senate Democrats to skip the meeting with Biden’s campaign advisers reflects a broader trend of uncertainty and division within the party. As concerns about the president’s performance and leadership style persist, lawmakers are grappling with how best to position themselves in a challenging and unpredictable political landscape.

