Actor and Democratic donor George Clooney recently defended his July 2024 op-ed urging then-President Joe Biden to step down from the presidential race, describing the move as his “civic duty” in a new interview.
During an appearance on CNN’s “The Lead” with Jake Tapper on April 16, 2025, Clooney explained that he felt compelled to speak out after observing Democrats not being truthful about Biden’s condition. He cited seeing “people on my side of the street not telling the truth” regarding the former president’s capabilities following a poor debate showing against Donald Trump in June 2024.
In his original New York Times op-ed on July 10, 2024, Clooney expressed admiration for Biden but argued that the Democratic Party required a new candidate. Despite co-hosting a significant fundraiser for Biden shortly before the op-ed, Clooney noted that the president seemed different from the “big [expletive] deal Biden of 2010.”
“It was a civic duty,” Clooney remarked to Tapper about his decision to write the op-ed, adding that the Democratic Party exhibited “a lot of profiles in cowardice” at that time.
Following Clooney’s op-ed and mounting pressure from other Democrats, Biden announced on July 21, 2024, that he would withdraw from the race and endorse then-Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination.
Clooney acknowledged facing criticism for his stance but maintained his conviction in the importance of freedom of speech. He told CNN, “You cannot demand freedom of speech and then say, ‘Don’t say bad things about me.'” Clooney stated he was “OK with criticism” regarding his political views.
Beyond discussing Biden’s departure, Clooney shared his thoughts on future Democratic leaders. In the same CNN interview, he praised Maryland Governor Wes Moore as someone “levitating” above other potential Democratic candidates for the 2028 election.
Clooney highlighted Moore’s experience, noting his military service, leadership in a charity, and efforts to address issues in Baltimore, Maryland. Clooney’s endorsement may carry weight due to his status as a significant Democratic donor and his influence in party politics.
Moore, 46, has been Maryland’s governor since January 2023. Before entering politics, he was CEO of the Robin Hood Foundation, an anti-poverty nonprofit. His military service includes combat deployment in Afghanistan with the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division.
The actor’s comments surfaced as “Fox & Friends” hosts Ainsley Earhardt, Steve Doocy, Brian Kilmeade, and Lawrence Jones discussed Clooney’s statements and their implications for the Democratic Party. The program explored Clooney’s reasoning for Biden’s exit and his endorsement of Moore as a future leader.
Clooney’s assessment followed years of supporting Biden. After Biden’s withdrawal, Clooney described the decision as “selfless” and emphasized the need for the Democratic Party to find new leadership “rather soon.”
Clooney remains active in Democratic politics despite the 2024 outcome. His endorsement of Moore shows his continued influence in shaping the party’s future as Democrats look toward the 2028 election cycle.
Clooney’s candid view of Biden and subsequent promotion of Moore suggest his commitment to identifying competitive Democratic candidates for national elections. Political analysts note that early endorsements from figures like Clooney can help candidates build momentum and fundraising networks before primary season.
