Biden wins backing of Democratic governors after crisis meeting about debate performance

It came as concerns mounted that Biden is sliding further in the polls against former president Donald Trump and as some donors and members of Congress become increasingly vocal in calling for him to step down from the ticket.

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US presidential debate: Biden and Trump spar over economy, war in Ukraine

US presidential debate: Biden and Trump spar over economy, war in Ukraine

“None of us are denying Thursday night was a bad performance,” said Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, referring to Biden’s debate, when he stumbled over answers and spoke in a raspy voice. “But it doesn’t impact what I believe he’s delivering.”

New York Governor Kathy Hochul also added in her support saying she’s convinced Biden can win after hearing his plans.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker had told CNN on Tuesday that he hadn’t spoken to Biden since Thursday’s debate and wanted him to address Americans and Democratic leaders to present his plans.

Along with Pritzker, others present included California Governor Gavin Newsom and Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer, all three of whom have been widely touted as possible replacements. They didn’t address reporters after the meeting but issued statements with similar sentiments and wording.

“I heard three words from the President – he’s all in. And so am I. Joe Biden’s had our back. Now it’s time to have his,” said Newsom.

Whitmer wrote on X: “@Joebiden is our nominee. He’s in it to win it and I support him”.

Biden’s campaign said the president reiterated his determination “to defeat the existential threat of Donald Trump at the ballot box in November” and discussed the importance of electing Democrats up and down the ballot.

“All participants reiterated their shared commitment to do everything possible to make sure President Biden and Vice-President Harris beat Donald Trump in November,” it said.

Additional reporting by Reuters