California Governor Gavin Newsom was questioned about potentially replacing President Biden if the Democratic Party pushes him out during their August convention.
Despite speculation and questions about his candidacy, Newsom reaffirmed his support for Biden as the nominee.
The discussion arose following concerns over Biden’s debate performance, with Newsom emphasizing the need to stand by the president and dismissing suggestions of replacement.
“Are you going to be the next Democratic nominee?” Newsom was asked.
“No, our nominee is Joe Biden. I’m looking forward to voting for him in November. He’s going to be our nominee,” Newsom said.
“Because you know that everybody is talking about you as a possible nominee now,” the reporter added.
“You were out there getting a chorus of questions about whether Biden should step down. There is panic that has set in,” MSNBC’s Alex Wagner said to Newsom.
“They shouldn’t be,” he argued.
“…I think it’s unhelpful,” Newsom said. “And I think it’s unnecessary. We’ve gotta go in and keep our head high, and as I say, we’ve gotta have the back of this president.”
Newsom added, “You don’t turn your back because of one performance. What kind of party does that? It’s been a masterclass.”
“This president has delivered. We need to deliver for him at this moment,” he said.
“With all due respect, the more time we start having these conversations, go down these rabbit holes. It’s unhelpful to our democracy, our fate and future of this country, the world. They need us right now to step up. And that is exactly what I intend to do.”
Other Democrats have also been considered as potential options in the event Biden steps down, but the campaign has firmly rejected such notions.
Vice President Harris defended Biden’s performance, highlighting the importance of substance over style in the election.
“Listen, people can debate on style points, but ultimately, this election and who is the President of the United States has to be about substance. And the contrast is clear,” Harris said.
Former President Obama sought to reassure the party, emphasizing the stakes in the upcoming election.
“Bad debate nights happen. Trust me, I know. But this election is still a choice between someone who has fought for ordinary folks his entire life and someone who only cares about himself,” former President Barack Obama wrote.
“Between someone who tells the truth; who knows right from wrong and will give it to the American people straight — and someone who lies through his teeth for his own benefit. Last night didn’t change that, and it’s why so much is at stake in November.”
President Biden reiterated his commitment to remain in the race and engage in a second debate with former President Trump in September.
