White House Press Sec. Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday said President Joe Biden is not stepping down after his widely criticized debate last week.
“Is President Biden considering stepping down?” a reporter asked.
“Absolutely not,” the press secretary replied.
Jean-Pierre's remarks came at about the same time Biden reportedly told staffers on an all-staff campaign call that he wouldn't exit the race.
“Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can and as simply and straightforward as I can: I am running. I’m the nominee of the Democratic Party. No one’s pushing me out. I’m not leaving. I’m in this race to the end, and we’re going to win because when Democrats unite, we always win,” Biden reportedly said.
“Given the groundswell of concern from fellow Democrats, from donors, from supporters, doesn't he owe it to the American public to reflect on whether he should step down?” the reporter responded.
“He had an opportunity to talk to supporters. He's done it a couple times at this point, and laid out what happened on that night, talked about how he understands and it was not his best night,” Jean-Pierre replied. “He understands that it is fair for people to ask that question. But we cannot forget his record and what he's been able to do.”
“We cannot forget how he has been able to deliver for the American people for almost four years. That matters too,” she continued. “And he has the most historic record administration — the most in modern politics — and that should matter.”
