Biden's Defiant Rally in Detroit: "Don't You Quit!"
As Joe Biden stepped onto the stage in Detroit, Michigan, Friday night, he was met with one of the most enthusiastic crowds seen at a presidential rally in recent years. Chants of “Don’t you quit!” echoed through the high school gymnasium, as the presumptive Democratic nominee declared, “I am running! And I’m gonna win!”
The crowd’s energy surged as Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down” played, a subtle rebuttal to those within his party urging him to step aside due to concerns about his age. Despite the headlines focusing on the latest calls for him to withdraw, Biden’s support within the Democratic Party remains strong. Over 80 Democratic politicians have publicly endorsed the 81-year-old, with more joining them as Biden firmly states his intent to stay in the race.
Many Democrats believe Biden’s political achievements, principles, and his 2020 victory over Donald Trump outweigh any concerns about his age or occasional verbal slip-ups. In his first solo news conference of the year on Thursday, Biden discussed NATO and his plans for a second term, though media attention was drawn to his mistaken reference to Kamala Harris as “Vice-President Trump.”
Nonetheless, Biden’s supporters praised his command of foreign policy, with North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper highlighting his expertise. California Governor Gavin Newsom, seen as a potential successor, reiterated his full support for Biden, emphasizing their unity.
Congressman Brendan Boyle of Pennsylvania lauded Biden’s policy knowledge, contrasting it with Trump’s rhetoric. Democratic strategist Simon Rosenberg noted the logistical challenges and unprecedented nature of replacing a presidential candidate this late in the race, further solidifying Biden’s position.
Various groups, including the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus, have expressed their support for Biden. Ameshia Cross, a former Obama campaign adviser, emphasized Biden’s commitment to civil rights, a stark contrast to Trump’s stance. Even left-leaning politicians like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders, who have criticized Biden’s moderate agenda, recognize the risks of a Trump presidency and appreciate Biden’s efforts on issues like LGBTQ rights and climate change.
Biden’s core support comes from politicians in safer districts, less concerned about their own election prospects being harmed by his candidacy. Rosenberg advised the White House to address their concerns more aggressively.
Despite increasing calls for Biden to exit the race, recent polls suggest his voter support remains steady. A survey from the Washington Post, ABC News, and Ipsos showed Biden and Trump in a dead-heat, though two-thirds of Americans prefer Biden step aside.
Biden has faced criticism from some Hollywood elites, with actress Ashley Judd and George Clooney calling for a new candidate. Additionally, some Democratic donors, like Whitney Tilson, have pulled their support. However, other top donors remain loyal.
Shekar Narasimhan, a long-time Democratic fundraiser, expressed continued support for Biden, emphasizing the president’s decision to run. He believes Biden can win key states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, which could decide the election. Frank Islam, a member of the National Finance Committee, is also moving forward with his fundraising efforts, confident in Biden’s chances.
As Biden stands firm against growing pressure, his supporters remain hopeful and committed to securing his victory in the upcoming election.
