Actor George Clooney, a notable Hollywood figure and ardent supporter of the Democratic Party, has startlingly suggested that President Joe Biden should not contest in the upcoming 2024 presidential race. Noted for his contributions to Democratic causes, Clooney shared his apprehensions about Biden’s health and age in a July 10 op-ed for The New York Times.
The 63-year-old actor, renowned for his filmmaking, has previously organized fundraisers for the 81-year-old president. However, he has now expressed concerns about Biden’s deteriorating physical and mental health. These remarks came shortly after Clooney hosted a record-breaking $28 million fundraiser for Biden in Los Angeles, California on June 16, where he observed a noticeable decline in Biden’s performance.
The Biden campaign rebutted Clooney’s assertions, pointing out that it was Clooney who had left the fundraising event early. Kayla Tausche, a CNN White House correspondent, reported that a campaign official disclosed that Clooney departed three hours before Biden. This claim was made to contradict Clooney’s assertions, suggesting that the actor, not Biden, exhibited a lack of stamina. Tausche clarified that the intention was to present Biden’s stamina as superior to Clooney’s, as Clooney didn’t witness the entire event.
Responding to a query from host Jake Tapper about the significance of Clooney’s early departure, Tausche pointed to Biden’s impending busy schedule, which includes trips to Michigan, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, and California, as proof of his continued vigor and dedication to the campaign.
Longtime Democrat Clooney has been a key fundraiser for Biden. However, his recent statements have created a stir within the president’s campaign. Despite his deep respect for Biden, Clooney stated that Biden’s struggle against time is a battle he cannot win.
Clooney’s public disapproval has added to a growing number of Democrats voicing their concerns about Biden’s potential candidacy. Hollywood figures such as Rob Reiner and Michael Douglas have also expressed their concerns, encouraging the party to consider a younger nominee capable of challenging former President Donald Trump.
Clooney’s op-ed has further fueled the ongoing debate within the Democratic Party. He warned that ignoring Biden’s health decline could result in the party losing the presidency and control of Congress. Despite these criticisms, Biden remains resolute in his decision to run for re-election, citing his rigorous travel and fundraising schedule as proof of his ongoing vitality.
The White House has disregarded Clooney’s portrayal of Biden, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attributing any perceived performance lapses to jet lag and a cold. However, Clooney’s critique has struck a chord with some Democratic donors and politicians, leading to uncertainty within the party.
Michael Douglas, a longtime supporter of Biden, expressed his concern about the situation. He agreed with Clooney’s op-ed, stating that it raises a valid point. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also commented, suggesting that Biden should make his decision to run sooner rather than later, given the limited time available.
Clooney’s statements have not only impacted political circles but also affected Biden’s relationship with Hollywood. While some celebrities have backed Clooney’s call for Biden to step aside, others have criticized him for publicly airing his concerns. Despite the present strain in their relationship, Clooney still had hosted the huge fundraiser in June, alongside actress Julia Roberts and former President Barack Obama, raising substantial funds for Biden’s campaign.
As Clooney’s op-ed stirs up further debate, the Democratic Party faces a crucial decision regarding its future leadership. Clooney proposed potential candidates such as Vice President Kamala Harris, Governors Wes Moore, Gretchen Whitmer, Gavin Newsom, Andy Beshear, and J.B. Pritzker. Nevertheless, Biden remains committed to his re-election bid, striving to secure support from Democratic lawmakers, donors, and mayors.
In the coming months, Biden’s campaign will be key in convincing both the party and the public of his ability to serve another term.
