Hollywood actor George Clooney has unexpectedly called on President Joe Biden to step down from the 2024 presidential race. Clooney, a dedicated supporter of the Democratic Party, voiced his concerns about Biden’s health and age in an op-ed released by The New York Times.
The 63-year-old actor and director, a previous host of fundraisers for the 81-year-old president, expressed worries about Biden’s fading physical and cognitive abilities. This critique from Clooney comes shortly after he hosted a record-setting $28 million fundraiser for Biden in Los Angeles, California on June 16. Clooney noted in his op-ed that Biden’s performance at the event was subpar compared to past years.
The Biden campaign responded to Clooney’s assertions, pointing out that Clooney was the one to leave the event early. CNN White House correspondent Kayla Tausche reported that an official from the campaign noted that Clooney departed three hours before the president. The implication of this comment was to challenge Clooney’s claims by suggesting that Biden, not Clooney, had the greater endurance. Tausche further explained that the remark was intended to highlight Biden’s stamina outlasting Clooney’s and indicate that Clooney did not witness the entire event.
Responding to a query from host Jake Tapper about the significance of Clooney’s early departure, Tausche added that Biden’s forthcoming busy travel and fundraising schedule, including visits to Michigan, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, and California, showcases his ongoing energy and dedication to his campaign.
Despite his long-standing support for Biden, Clooney’s recent comments have caused a stir within the president’s campaign. “I love Joe Biden. As a senator. As a vice president and as president. I consider him a friend, and I believe in him. Believe in his character. Believe in his morals. In the last four years, he’s won many of the battles he’s faced,” Clooney wrote in his article. However, he added, “But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can.”
Clooney’s public criticism adds to the increasing number of Democrats voicing concerns about Biden’s potential candidacy. Other Hollywood personalities, including Rob Reiner and Michael Douglas, have also expressed their anxieties, suggesting that the party should consider nominating a younger candidate who is capable of challenging former President Donald Trump.
Clooney’s op-ed has sparked a heated discussion within the Democratic Party. He cautioned that ignoring signs of Biden’s health decline could lead to the party losing the presidency and possibly control of Congress. “Our party leaders need to stop telling us that 51 million people didn’t see what we just saw. We’re all so terrified by the prospect of a second Trump term that we’ve opted to ignore every warning sign,” Clooney wrote.
Despite these criticisms, Biden remains unswayed in his intent to run for re-election. His campaign cites his busy travel schedule and forthcoming fundraising events as proof of his continued vitality. Biden is scheduled to visit Michigan, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, and California in the upcoming weeks.
The White House has rejected Clooney’s portrayal of Biden, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attributing any perceived dips in performance to jet lag and a cold. However, Clooney’s critique has struck a chord with some Democratic donors and politicians, causing discomfort within the party.
Longtime Biden supporter Michael Douglas expressed his concerns, stating on ABC’s “The View,” “I think it’s a valid point,” in reference to Clooney’s op-ed. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also weighed in, suggesting that Biden’s decision to run should be made sooner rather than later, as time is of the essence.
Beyond political circles, Clooney’s comments have also impacted Biden’s relationship with Hollywood. While some celebrities have backed Clooney’s call for Biden to step down, others have criticized him for expressing his concerns publicly. Comedian D.L. Hughley found the op-ed “insulting,” and Barstool Sports owner Dave Portnoy ridiculed Clooney for his sudden shift in support.
Reports also highlighted a strain in Clooney and Biden’s relationship over the White House’s stance on an attempt by Clooney’s wife, prominent human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, to prosecute Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for war crimes. Despite these tensions, Clooney still hosted a fundraiser in June with actress Julia Roberts and former President Barack Obama, raising substantial funds for Biden’s campaign.
As Clooney’s op-ed continues to provoke discussion, the Democratic Party faces a crucial decision about its future leadership. Clooney proposed that potential candidates such as Vice President Kamala Harris and Governors Wes Moore, Gretchen Whitmer, Gavin Newsom, Andy Beshear, and J.B. Pritzker should be considered. “Let’s agree that the candidates not attack one another but, in the short time we have, focus on what will make this country soar,” he suggested.
Nevertheless, Biden remains committed to his re-election bid, reaching out to Democratic lawmakers, donors, and mayors to solidify his support. In a letter to Democratic lawmakers, Biden stated, “I want you to know that despite all the speculation in the press and elsewhere, I am firmly committed to staying in this race, to running this race to the end, and to beating Donald Trump.”
The upcoming months will be critical for Biden’s campaign as he aims to persuade both the party and the public of his ability to lead for another term.
