AOC Backs Biden Amid Calls for Change in Democratic Ticket

In a volatile moment for President Joe Biden, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent figure in the Democratic Party from New York, has emerged as a staunch supporter of Biden amidst increasing pressure for him to step aside in the 2024 presidential election. As former President Donald Trump delivered his acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention, Ocasio-Cortez took to Instagram Live to express her fears about the ramifications of a possible late-stage change in the Democratic ticket.

Citing concerns about the legality and risks associated with substituting candidates at such a late juncture, Ocasio-Cortez compared the situation to the contentious presidential election in 2000 that involved court decisions by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. She stressed that the conversation surrounding Biden potentially exiting the race should not disregard the «existential peril» that could accompany such a move.

During her livestream, Ocasio-Cortez acknowledged the valid concerns held by voters eager for new leadership, stating, «If you are absolutely convinced that the current president cannot win, then do what you feel is right. But I don’t see a viable alternative that doesn’t put us in significant danger.» Her remarks starkly position her among the few vocal defenders of Biden in a party where discontent is brewing.

Reflecting a notable shift in her political stance, Ocasio-Cortez’s public endorsement of Biden comes amid rising calls from some factions within the Democratic Party for him to withdraw from the race. Just over ten percent of the congressional Democrats have expressed support for Biden’s departure, yet few have actively challenged those demands or made the affirmative case for his continued candidacy.

Ocasio-Cortez’s support for Biden is not only vocal but backed by the success of progressive policies that she and her allies have persuaded Biden to adopt, including the expansion of Social Security and the capping of rent increases. This allegiance to Biden underscores the complex dynamics at play within the party, as many progressives like Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders are driven by policy agreements and direct access to the president’s ear.

Still, the anxiety over a potential Trump presidency if Biden continues on his current trajectory looms large. The uncertainty surrounding the vice president, Kamala Harris, further complicates the discussions, with conflicting opinions about whether she would perform better in an election or in governing should Biden step aside.

Describing the current mood as one of ‘existential emergency,’ a progressive strategist highlighted the reluctance among some party members to contemplate a change at the top without clear alternatives. This sentiment contributes to what some have termed the ‘bird in hand phenomenon,’ where established leadership is deemed a more secure option than an uncertain future with a new nominee.

Contrastingly, Rep. Mark Pocan from Wisconsin, a former co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, reiterated his call for Biden to abandon the race, citing extensive public concerns regarding the president’s age and perceived fitness for office. In a joint statement with three other House Democrats, Pocan urged Biden to step back while still leading from the White House, suggesting that perceptions of his candidacy are solidifying in a negative light.

Ocasio-Cortez pointed out that the push for Biden’s exit is being largely driven by the elite donor class and affluent circles who are not in touch with the grassroots voters’ sentiments. She expressed frustration over Congress members who choose to remain anonymous in their critiques, stating, “If you have an opinion, express it openly instead of hiding behind anonymity.”

The discontent among certain Democratic ranks became more palpable following Biden’s recent debate performance against Trump, which had been widely criticized. Polls conducted alongside these developments revealed that approximately 65 percent of party members believe Biden should withdraw from the race—concerns heightened by diminishing prospects in key battleground states.

Even within the ranks of party leaders, there have been discussions suggesting that Biden’s chances may not align with the party’s expectations. Reports indicate that figures like Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, and Hakeem Jeffries have been contemplating how to navigate the situation if Biden opts out, illuminating a queasy undercurrent within the Democratic establishment.

The uncertainty surrounding Biden’s potential withdrawal has dominated narratives leading up to the Democratic convention, keeping party strategists on high alert as they monitor the trajectory of the presidential race. Friends of the president have commented that Biden should consider his legacy with an eye toward avoiding a historical downturn.

As the political climate remains tumultuous, Ocasio-Cortez continues to emphasize the need for party members to embrace the complexities of their current situation and advocate for more concrete alternatives before hastily pushing for a significant change in leadership. Her steadfast support for Biden, in contrast to rising calls for his exit, underscores the divergent strategies that are now shaping the narrative within the Democratic Party.